One of my favorite destinations on my rambles about the little town of Rogue River (population 2,000) is Palmerton Park, a five-acre arboretum adjoining Evans Creek. Within its boundaries are nearly 100 species of trees and shrubs, a truly unique treasure anywhere, but especially so in this small community. Being a gardener (and a frustrated one right now, without a plot of land at hand for me to tend), I especially enjoy strolling the paths and admiring the size, form and variety of the lush growth around me. Over the last month and a half the deciduous trees have been transitioning from summer glory to fall brilliance to winter dormancy, making it possible to more clearly observe the collection of firs, pines, cedars and redwoods in their midst. Orin F. Palmerton, a Spanish American war vet, purchased this land in the 1920s and established a nursery here. He continued to operate it as such until 1966, and in those years he planted and nurtured pines from Japan and China, cedars from the Mediterranean, and all kinds of exotic and native species. As his health declined, he sold the property to the county for a nominal fee, for he had always envisioned that what he had tended so lovingly and well would become a park for all to enjoy. His dream became a reality, and in later years the City of Rogue River took over care and maintenance of the park. New specimens continue to be added to the towering sequoias, elms, gingkos and others that Orin Palmerton planted. It reminds me that each of us has the potential to add something enduring and beautiful to the world we inhabit. Too often, I think, we can be overwhelmed by the legacies of the likes of the Roosevelts, Carnegies and Gateses and lose sight of the fact that one doesn’t need millions of dollars to make a positive impact.  Perhaps some are fortunate enough to be able to deed a plot of land for a link in a trail system, a unique home to a historical society or a building for community use. Most of us, though, while not having those resources at hand, can still support a local program or society with our time, skills or donations. It isn’t just the large gift or gesture that is needed, but also the long-term generosity of the many that maintains and grows the jewels in our towns and neighborhoods and keeps them vibrant. Patty Vanikiotis, proofreader