Party for the Planet

On Saturday we had a special day planned. It was the Party for the Planet celebration at Surrey City Hall. This is Surrey's Earth Day event and is the largest such event in BC. I believe this was the first time it was being held at the new City hall which is quite an impressive building. The old building wasn't terrible, however it was in the middle of nowhere. The land might have been cheap but it was a terrible location. The new City Hall is at Surrey Central and there have been a lot of improvements in what was previously one of the less desirable areas of town.

I should mention that the day wasn't just special because it was the Earth Day celebration. It was special because Callie got to meet the Mayor. One of her recent class projects was for a city wide poster contest. Each poster had to represent a super hero for the planet. Callie's was Green Girl and Bottle Boy. Callie always makes a good effort to make it look as if she hates her little brother but secretly we know she likes having him as a side kick. The poster was not only the best in her class but it turns out it was the best of all grade four posters submitted in the City.

There was one winner for each grade level. The prizes were awarded at the opening ceremonies and personally presented by the Mayor. Things started out with their poster returned to them in a frame and were followed by a presentation on stage of a super hero cape themed to their poster. Callie's was a green cape with the initials GG on it. (As I right this I suddenly realize those initials are already taken by Great Grandma. Must be a connection there.) Callie was all smiles as the cape was tied on with everyone watching. I'm always surprised at how well she performs in front of large audiences. Not shy at all.

After the opening ceremonies, the Mayor and the kids were joined by Curious George as they planted a ceremonial Monkey Tree. After some pictures they headed back to the VIP area to get one last gift. Callie's was a few books and some seeds to plant her own flowers. The VIP area was great with free drinks, appetizers and desserts. We all had a cake pop which was delicious. (I may have had two.) We're very proud of Callie for putting such great though into her poster. It was a memorable day.