COMMUNITY

“Friends of the Marysville Bok Kai Temple & Historic Chinatown” (FMBKT &HC) had their annual meeting on Saturday, July 27. The New Officers elected for the upcoming year are as follow: President-larry Bird, Vice President-sandy Saunders, Secretary-susan Buckley and Treasure -Shirley Evans.

President Larry Bird shared the many projects that the group has assisted the Chinese Community with, like reserving the Bok Kai Temple and the Chinatown area. He stated that;

Our Story started in 1999 when five groups came together through mutual concern for the Bok Kai Temple. The Marysville Chinese Community Inc, Marysville-peikang Sister Cities Association, Bok Kai Parade Committee, Citizens for Historic Marysville Preservation, and the Yuba County Historical Society.

These groups helped form the basis of what would eventually the predecessor to the current group- “Friends of Marysville Bok Kai Temple (FMBKT). Through grass roots efforts of its members, along with a grant, generous contributions by various service groups and community organizations, FMBKT was able to accrue funds to restore the Bok Kai Temple.

After succeeding in restoring the temple, FMBKT expanded its mandate to include other historical Chinese buildings in Chinatown; heralding the birth of “Friends of Marysville Bok Kai Temple and Historic Chinatown”

“Friends” continues to work on the Chinese School and the Hospice Building (behind the School). A meditation Garden is in the works, a contribution was made this year to the Marysville Community Garden.

“The Bok Kai Temple will always need continuous work and upkeep” Bird said.

Mr. Bird updated all with the idea of a Chinatown Arch has been talked among the Chinese Community and partial funds have already been donated to the Chinese Community. He also stated that the Bok Kia Parade Committee needs help in fundraising for 2020 Bok Kai Festival/parade.

Mr. Bird and the Board Members agreed that “Friends” will continue to help bring the Historic Chinatown back to its once glory. But again, donations and members are needed for this to continue.

If you have any questions, please contact Larry Bird, President of FMBKT&HC at 815-579-9356.