The damage done to the sense of community by thieves, vandals and ne’er-do-wells cannot be underestimated.
In Langley, this isn’t as noticeable as in some other communities, because often some individual or organization is quick to step in when a void is created due to the cancellation of, or change to, an event. An example of this is the Canada Day event, which was taken over by the International Festival Society when a void was created. While this year’s event created some challenges for the new organizers, hopefully there will be a positive ending and the Canada Day festivities, which are among the best in the Lower Mainland, will continue.
Nonetheless, word that the annual Christmas in Williams Park has been cancelled is a profound disappointment to many people, and to the community of Langley as a whole. Organizers felt they had no choice, after the theft of Christmas lights used in the display was discovered last month.
This event is among the nicest Christmas displays in Langley, and is a good one for older people and others who cannot walk to easily observe from a car. While there are many other light displays, none are within a beautiful natural area like Williams Park, which in itself is a wonderful part of Langley — one that many Langley residents have not visited.
The thieves stole all the Christmas lights, which makes staging the display absolutely impossible this year. It has been running every Christmas season since 1991.
However, despite all that, the organizers are determined to mount the display again in the future, if they can get enough community support. Many individuals and organizations have backed the Christmas in Williams Park event over the years, and it is almost certain that it will rise again. Unfortunately, it won’t happen this year.
This turn of events proves that vigilance is always needed, and so is whistle-blowing. Someone knows these Christmas lights were stolen, and knows who stole them. Don’t hesitate to tell police.
Editor’s note —
The Times has been overwhelmed with reaction to the story about the theft of lights which has prevented Christmas in Williams Park from proceeding this year.
Many readers have asked how they can help out.
Anyone wanting to contribute to save Christmas in Williams Park can donate at any TD Bank under account #363 – Christmas in Williams Park Society. The TD branch is #9190.
The society has been so touched by the support and outreach that there is a chance it could be saved for this year. To contact society president Barbara Sharp, contact her by email at barbsharp@shaw.ca.
