Editor:
Re: White Rock to engage Semiahmoo, May 25.
In your article regarding agreement changes between White Rock and Semiahmoo First Nations, it refers to the construction of the planned Grand Chief Bernard Charles Plaza.
This will be a fitting tribute to a great man.
However, let us consider the land on which this will be built. Many years ago this spot was simply an extension of the landscape; basically, the side of a hill.
White Rock council consulted the White Rock Lions Club to see if the club could make alterations to the site so it would be serving a useful purpose.
After much discussion in the Lions group, it was decided that the hillside could be “flattened” to make it a useful spot for people to rest and relax. Money was raised for the bulldozer necessary for the undertaking; benches were installed and it became known as “Lions Lookout.” The project was even written up in Peace Arch News!
The name “Lions Lookout” was discarded when totem poles were erected to honour the RCMP special anniversary. And it quickly became known as “totem lookout.”
All well and good, but not even one word to the Lions Club for their initial efforts.
Now, many years later, it will be changed to “Bernard Charles Plaza.”
In short, all changes have been good for White Rock, but it’s obvious the work of the Lions Club has been fully ignored.
True, the White Rock Lions Club has disbanded, but throughout its existence it contributed a great deal to the White Rock district; and while many Lions members have passed on, there are a few of us who worked on the project still around and of service to the community.
To appreciate the present, one has to know and remember the past.
Al Renflesh, Surrey