Shirley Henry and George Henry at the Pemberton Chamber AGM Jan 12 2018. Photo by Valerie St-Arnaud from Calling Mountains Productions.

You too can have a park named after you in Pemberton. Just dedicate half a century of time and effort. 🙂

via the Village of Pemberton media release

On Tuesday, January 16^th, Village of Pemberton Council announced it will name the new municipal park in the Tiyata Development, after Pemberton’s long-time residents and local advocates, George and Shirley Henry.

A founding member of the Pemberton Lions Club, George made a lasting legacy in the community.  As a teacher at Pemberton Secondary School, George set up the school’s first Industrial Educational Shop and wrote and produced many school musical productions.  George also served as Chair of the Pemberton Agricultural Community Association which lead the pursuit of new recreational facilities throughout the 1980’s and 1990’s.  Most recently, George retired as President of the Pemberton & District Museum and Archives, after serving 15 years.

George Henry with Blair Kaplan and Michelle Staehle at the Pemberton Chamber AGM Jan 12 2018. Photo by Valerie St-Arnaud from Calling Mountains Productions.

Highlights of Shirley’s community service includes serving on Council as Councillor and Mayor for 19 consecutive years and holds the record as the longest serving member to date, working with Pemberton’s youth as a substitute teacher, Sunday school teacher, Brownie/Cub/Guide Guide/Pathfinder leader, chairing the Canada Week Committee for 25 years, co-coordinated and taught for the Pemberton Night School, and was a founding member of Howe Sound Community Futures.

“Shirley and I have had the pleasure of serving the community for over 50 years. To be recognized for this service is truly an honour. We are grateful for this distinction,” says George Henry.

Shirley Henry with President Graham Turner at the Pemberton Chamber AGM Jan 12 2018. Photo by Valerie St-Arnaud from Calling Mountains Productions.

“George and Shirley’s impact on Pemberton has been profound.  They have put in countless hours contributing to our community since their arrival in 1964.  The evidence of their hard work is seen on every street corner,” says Mayor Mike Richman.  “We are pleased to honour their community spirit and passion.  They set an incredible high standard for community service, and are great role models for our present and future volunteers.  Naming the park is Council’s small way to say thank you on behalf of the community for all that they have given.”

Located in Phase two of the Tiyata Development off Portage Road, the future park will feature natural play elements such as climbing trees, logs and berms and will include seating throughout with a large longtable for picnics.

The Village of Pemberton will be hosting a ribbon cutting ceremony to honour the couple at the park, once it’s been completed.  The Park is slated to open in the late summer of 2018.