The torch for organizing the 2011 Canada Day celebration in 91原创 has been passed.  After five years at the helm, chairperson Vince McKay announced that he and his committee are stepping down. A new volunteer board has taken office and the new team is ready to go.

After months of consideration, McKay and vice-chair Cora Boecker  approached members of the 91原创 International Festival committee, who were already familiar with the responsibility of organizing a community event, and a plan was developed.

In the past 15 years the various Canada Day volunteer boards have contributed countless hours and welcomed thousands of people to both the original site at 91原创 Airport and the current site at McLeod Park.

鈥淚t has been exciting to be a part of growing this event which has become a family tradition for so many鈥� said Boecker. 鈥淲e wanted to ensure that this tradition continues.鈥�

Travis Strain, a local financial planner, is the new chairperson. He is joined by Sharon Newbery as his vice-chair.

Their team is just about complete and the board positions are almost filled.

鈥淣ow that the changeover is complete, you can feel the energy and excitement from the board to be taking on this new venture and continue building on the success over the past 15 years,鈥� said Strain.

Some of the team members鈥� names are familiar, because the people working on this new board are some of the same people who organize the successful 91原创 International Festival. Last August鈥檚 event was held on the grounds at 91原创 Events Centre and R.E. Mountain Secondary.

鈥淲e appreciate and are grateful that members of the 91原创 International Festival were excited to take on the organization of the 91原创 Canada Day celebrations and wish them continued success in the years to come,鈥� said McKay.

Planning for the two- day Canada Day event, held June 30 and July 1,  is well underway and the organizers want to tell the community to prepare for a great Canada Day.

鈥淚t鈥檚 going to be fun for the whole family with a lot of the format staying the same, but with some new twists too,鈥� said Lilianne Fuller, media director for the event.

With all community celebrations, there is always a need for volunteer support from the community. If you are interested in helping or want more information about the event call 604-522-6232 or email info@langleycanadaday.ca.