News and event information for Williams Lake, BC - as it happens.

By LeRae Haynes 

Ground-breaking began yesterday in Boitanio Park for a memorial garden for MADD (Mothers against drunk driving) in Williams Lake. This local group’s intent for the garden is to promote awareness in the community regarding the high percentage of alcohol-related deaths caused by motor vehicle collisions. 

The garden is also to provide a beautiful, convenient location for residents who have lost a loved one to drinking and driving, to place a memorial plaque. 

Expertly designed by city horticulturist Joan Flaspohler, the heart-shaped garden will include trees, shrubs, herbs and flowers, including Mother of Thyme and Hope for Humanity roses. 

“We threw some concepts around on the table—it wasn’t like the heart was the goal, but it worked for what these guys needed,” Joan explained. “We wanted to include enough space so that there will be room for plaques for a 100 more years. We tried to create it with a plant buffer-zone for privacy.” 

Pam Herman, from MADD Williams Lake, said that there will be a Strides for Change walk that will coincide with the grand opening of the garden, in late May or early June.  

“MADD Williams Lake would like to thank the MADD National Office for the funding to build the memorial garden,” she stated. “We would also like to thank our partners in this project---the City of Williams Lake, especially Kevin Goldfuss and Joan Flaspohler, as well as Sue Zacharias and United Concrete for the generous donation of concrete.” 

The garden will include a walkway and healing circle with an exposed aggregate finish, concrete stamped bordering and four benches for seating. There will be memorial plaques throughout the garden, which can be purchased from MADD Williams Lake. 

Memorial plaques will be individually custom-engraved, and can be personalized with a photo or sentiment. Order forms can be picked up at the Community Policing Office at 327 Oliver Street or by emailing This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

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