In 2021, the Corning Rotary Club teamed up with the City of Corning and Corning Enterprises to create the “Rotary Cherry Blossom Trail” in Denison Park, as Rotary’s signature project in celebration of its 100th anniversary.
Last year, we began to celebrate “Sakura”, the Japanese annual celebration when the cherry trees blossom. They “drop everything” and head for the trees with a picnic. It has a wonderful, spontaneous quality. Last year in Corning, we had about 100 people join for a noon-hour event. No speeches, no program … just the trees … and a community gathering to share in a springtime ritual of renewal.
This year, the trees have blossomed, “Sakura”, and we will once again gather to celebrate on Wednesday, April 22nd, at noon. Come join in to continue this simple tradition.
Meet at the trailhead located at Denison Park on East Market Street Extension, east of Conhocton Street. For reference, when traveling east on Denison Parkway, turn left onto Conhocton at Dunkin Donuts. If coming from East Corning/Gibson on 352, turn right onto Conhocton (first traffic light) at the former Rite-Aid pharmacy. Take the next right onto East Market Street Extension. The trailhead is a few hundred yards on the right-hand side. You can’t miss the big sign, “Rotary Cherry Blossom Trail.” Parking is along the street and in the City’s small lots on the left-hand side.
Bill Boland