By FRED MCCARTHY

On Aug. 7, 2015, about 30 people gathered at 5 p.m. in Clyde Alley (the alley between the Braeburn Restaurant and Callahan’s Fire House Glassworks) for a special event.

There was a sheet covering a rectangular piece of artwork attached to the wall of the Firehouse. Brief speeches were made, a benefactor who provided the plywood and paints was recognized, the artist was introduced, the assembly counted down from 10 to one. The curtain was pulled back, the gathering applauded, and a new colorful mural was added to the art collection in the City of Langley.

Vic Hansen of Hansen Building Supply was the supportive business owner, represented by Dan Gregory from the company.

Frank Rose, chairman of the Langley Arts Commission, planned and coordinated the unveiling.

Emily Moore was the artist who proposed the work to the city and then painted the inspiring and colorful mural.

Robin Black, Bruce Allen, and Jim Sundberg from the city council attended the event.

Tim Callison, candidate for mayor, was there to say his own personal thank you to the artist. A number of friends, family, and patrons of the arts participated.

I had the privilege of being the master of ceremonies.

It was a bright, sunny, warm Saturday afternoon in Langley, made even better with the positive energy emanating from the participants.

In many ways it was a simple ceremony, and on the other hand an extraordinary and memorable experience that brought us together.

It was people in a special community adding a significant dimension to the quality of life for others in the Village by the Sea.

Respectfully,

Fred