By Anthony Dixon

Copyright pembrokeobserver

Pembroke Mayor Ron Gervais echoed the importance of partnerships.

“The City of Pembroke always is aware that no one can do anything alone,” he said. “When I look around, I see all sorts of different age groups, which is fabulous. This is phenomenal to see so many people here working together when I was coming down the hill. I didn’t know if it would be a few hands doing a lot of work, but no, it’s a lot of hands doing light work.”

For Vandersleen, the turnout showed what can happen when community, education, and business work hand-in-hand.

“We are most grateful for the partnership with CNL and the grant to purchase 22 trees to add to beautiful Pansy Patch Park,” she said. “Many ash trees have succumbed to the ash borer, so it’s important that we plant some diversity.”

Bello reminded volunteers as they headed out through the park to plant, that the trees planted now will benefit future generations.

“We hope that we’ll have the trees grow and have solid trees that future generations can enjoy,” Bello said.