Relatives and friends of Dana and Jessica turned out for the moving ceremony that was the focus of the school’s annual recognition of Arbor Day. Middle school English teacher Cay Wiant, who organizes the event each year, opened by saying that the participants would be "remembering Jessica and Dana in a happy way" by planting the trees that would be a testimony to their lives. Dozens of middle school students who participate in the mentor/mentee program were present with picnic lunches to underscore this emotion.

"We are planting two trees, but we are also planting two stories," said David Eckert, chairman of the city’s tree commission. The two basswood trees, with heart-shaped leaves, signified much more as the students, staff, and family members placed mulch around them. Some cried, others prayed and some remembered. Some just stood alone and kept to themselves.

The remembrance of Dana and Jessica was merged with the city’s annual celebration of Arbor Day. Every year on Arbor Day trees are planted in the memory of people who have lived, died, or otherwise made their impression on Falls Church. According to Eckert, this tradition began in December of 1891, when a huge storm struck the country and destroyed communities throughout America. In 20 minutes, it devastated Falls Church homes, businesses, and stripped a local school, the Jefferson Institute, of its roof. "It felt like the end of the world," said Eckert. 

So, that long-ago weekend, Falls Church residents got together and, in two days, rebuilt the school’s roof. After the Civil War and this storm, many people were discouraged and this tradition brought them all together.