On Thursday, April 24th, over 50 members of the Fort Pierce Rotary Club had a picnic at Rotary Park to celebrate Arbor Day.

After lunch, members honored a deceased Rotarian, Philip Gates, Sr. by planting an oak tree. Gates had been a member of the Fort Pierce Rotary Club for over 60 years. At the dedication ceremony, Fort Pierce Rotary Club President Doug Davis said, "I think that it is appropriate to remember the life of someone who has left this world by planting a living tree."

Gates' wife, Barbara, and son Flip attended the dedication. Flip, also a Rotarian, commented that his father set a good example for fellow Rotarians by using the 4-way test in all aspects of his life. "Is it the Truth? Is it Fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned?"

Gary Roberts Landscaping donated the 15-foot oak tree, and dug the hole for the tree to be planted in. Rotary Park, located on Virginia Avenue and 23 rd Street, was built by the Fort Pierce Rotary Club almost 20 years ago. The City of Fort Pierce maintains the park and will care for the newly planted tree to ensure its survival.

The Fort Pierce Rotary Club was chartered in 1924 and is a part of Rotary International which is the first worldwide service organization. Rotary International has 1.2 million business, professional, and community leaders. Members of Rotary clubs, known as Rotarians, provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help build goodwill and peace in the world.