Parrsboro -
He may not be mayor anymore, but a new tree planted on the town civic grounds has further rooted Doug Robinson's legacy in the Town of Parrsboro.
The former mayor, who was recently hospitalized, was celebrated during a special ceremony in front of town hall on Saturday, Oct. 17, with wife Shirley, children and other friends and family members on hand.
The oak tree was planted in recognition of Robinson's 15 years of service to the town as a mayor and councillor, and is decorated with a plaque explaining so. The tree was planted near the location of another large oak tree that had died and been removed from the site.
"The oak represents a strong, large type of tree," explained town CAO Ray Hickey. "It will be a cornerstone in the park, like he has been in the community."
About 30 people attended the ceremony, which was included with a variety of fall festival activities taking place in town on the same day. Guest speakers included Coun. Lois Smith and Cumberland South MLA Murray Scott.
The idea for the tree tribute was brought to council at its June monthly session by Coun. David Howe, who said he was approached by a couple of different people with the suggestion. The idea did not go far at that particular meeting, which was presided over by Robinson, who was still in reasonably good health at the time. But, after he announced his resignation at the September session, the idea came back to the table and gathered momentum.
"After he announced his retirement, that's when council thought it should have something done to acknowledge his contribution to the town," said Hickey. "There was a need for a tree, and a need to recognize Doug."
The town has covered the cost of the tree, but Howe said it would be writing other groups in the community that Robinson has been interested in to see if any would be interested in contributing.
"We thought a lot of people would be thinking about what they could do for Doug's memory, so this is an opportunity for them to do this if they want to," he said. "He has served the town for 15 years, and he has worked very hard at it."
