Sara Setzer and arborist Whitey Grant examine her redbud tree, as they discuss his presentation at the Oct. 12 AAUW meeting. Whitey Grant, certified arborist, will discuss fall tree maintenance at the Oct. 12 meeting of the American Association of University Women (AAUW). The meeting will begin at noon at the House of Pizza, 1640 E. Frederick St. The public is invited to attend as space permits.

Grant is one of the first certified arborists, not only in Cherokee County but also in South Carolina and the United States. In an interview with Sara Setzer, AAUW historian and publicist, Grant said that as one of the oldest arborists in the state he has seen how science has affected the tree industry. He said that in order to keep one’s certification, an arborist must complete additional educational units every three years. Grant is also a Clemsoncertified Master Gardener.

Setzer said that Grant’s lifetime of experience, learning and respect for the integrity of trees should make his presentation helpful to anyone with questions about cutting and pruning at this time of year.

Anyone who has a degree from an accredited college or university is eligible for membership in AAUW. The Gaffney branch meets during the school year on the second Monday of the month. For more information, call 489-5389.