The city of Thousand Oaks Adopt An Oak Program allows residents to adopt one of the local oak trees.

Trees can be adopted in honor or in memory of loved ones, coworkers or friends.

The program raises funds for enhancing maintenance of the city's 15,000 acres of open space and development of public recreational facilities.

The gift, beginning at $250, is tax-deductible.

"Many residents have taken advantage of the program to honor people on special anniversaries, retirements or for the holidays. It's the perfect gift for someone who has everything— a gift that will last and bless future generations," said City Councilmember Dennis Gillette.

The city has three oak varieties: the valley oak, the coast live oak and the scrub oak.

For more information, call Gay Mosser, city manager's office, at (805) 449-2107, e-mail gmosser@toaks.org or visit www.toaks.org.