Thirteen years ago Peter Vereijken (70) moved from Noord-Brabant to Beilen, he himself says that his work as chairman of the Dierenweide has been his (successful) integration course for Drenthe. And he did that every day with great pleasure. As a volunteer, he will continue to do this. Because even though Vereijken thinks it is no problem to let go of the presidency, he will always remain involved.
When we call Peter Vereijken, he is just recovering on the couch. And that can be understood after a day full of festivities. The NoaBerschap van Dierenweide Stroomdal did not just pass the moment of departure as chairman of Stichting Dierenweide Stroomdal. “My wife was in the conspiracy,” says Vereijken. “She said nothing at all, but I had to stay at home this morning.”
This morning the former chairman was picked up from home with four decorated carts, pulled by donkeys and ponies, to make a round through the village. Vereijken: “Otherwise I will always walk out for the donkeys, but now I was on the cart.” Once arrived at the animal meadow, a large cake was ready to be cut and festively lunch. In addition, everyone was welcome, also people who happened to pass: “We ate the bottom from the pan!”