An Arbour Day ceremony saw eight new trees planted in honour of people singled out by Langley Township for special honour.
Taking place at McLeod Athletic Park this year, the tree planting and sign-unveiling ceremony on Friday, April 25 saw the Township's mayor, many councillors, and family members of those being honoured in attendance.
“By planting these trees, we not only commemorate the lives of those who gave so much to our community, but also create a lasting symbol of their inspiring influence," said Mayor Eric Woodward. "Today, as we plant, we remember their efforts to build a better Township of Langley.”
The trees planted this year included seven to honour the memories of recently passed Township residents:
• Dolly Harding, a longtime resident involved in the Glen Valley farming community, who had volunteered with seniors groups, local lawn bowling organizations, and promoted square dancing for all ages
• Zosia Ettenberg, who founded and ran the Langley Pos-Abilities Society, which aided people with disabilities, as well as advocating for them in the public realm, holding "Try on a Disability" events for the general public as well as local politicians
• Sylvia Anderson, a prolific volunteer who helped out with groups such as Langley Field Naturalists, the Canadian Cancer Society's Relay for Life, the Langley Heritage Society, and the Langley Christmas Bureau
• Geoff Scholtens, the son of previous Township mayor John Scholtens
• Reid McDonald, who was instrumental in establishing the "Field of Dreams" soccer pitch at Aldergrove Athletic Park, and was very involved with Aldergrove United Soccer
• Ed Gaertner, who was involved in the Shepherd of the Valley Church Emmaus Place Housing Project, as well as in many local sports organizations ranging from figure skating to ringette
• Gordon Smith, a longtime Fort Langley volunteer with the Lions, Boy Scouts, and sports organizations
An eighth tree was planted in honour of a number of Township pioneer residents who have died in the past year.
Signs were also unveiled during the April 25 ceremony, honouring those who had trees planted in their names.
Trees planted included dawn redwoods and river birch trees.
