One of the oldest trees in Lady Lake, a majestic oak, was dedicated to the volunteers of The Villages Regional Hospital Auxiliary, particularly to the 172 volunteers that work in Ye Olde Thrift Shoppe.
The tree sits on land adjoining the current store location that was purchased to provide additional parking, an immediate need for the growing number of customers that are finding their way to this boutique thrift store that sells clothing, housewares and furniture.
TVRH Foundation board member Roy Smith supervised the land purchase project. Realizing the tree was something special, an arborist was hired to do an extensive study. The arborist determined that the tree is between 200 – 250 years old, and a healthy specimen that should continue to flourish.
“We decided to dedicate it to the volunteers to show our gratitude and appreciation for all their tireless work,” said Smith comparing the strength, grace and endurance of the tree to the same qualities that can be found in the 900-plus members of the Auxiliary.
“They are the driving force,” said Smith.
Lady Lake Mayor Jim Richards was part of the celebration reading a proclamation from the city declaring Jan. 6, 2018 a day of dedication and celebration.
Rena Marchand, chair of the thrift shop volunteers accepted the proclamation and presided over the unveiling of the plaque which is at the entrance of the now fenced-in area surrounding the tree which includes a bench. Cindy Brown, with Congressman Daniel Webster’s office, added her thank-yous on behalf of the congressman for all the Auxiliary members do for the community.
Following the dedication celebration guests were treated to lunch provided by Insight Credit Union, cake and cupcakes and raffle drawings.
Ye Olde Thrift Shoppe is located at 106 West Lady Lake Blvd. The store is open Tuesday – Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
