To the editor:

As a Langley resident interested in the evolution of our dear and lovely village, I want to say thanks to the Record, the South Whidbey Historical Society, and members of the Langley Historical Preservation Commission. This past month — National Historic Preservation Month — you featured the most interesting articles and activities highlighting some of Langley’s historic high points.

A special “shout out” to Linda Beeman, South Whidbey Historical Society board member, for crafting some of those articles. Our public library, for example, is one of the first charming buildings one sees when entering this picturesque village by the sea. Nice to know that back in 1916, it was created by a group of visionary woman, the “Ladies Civic Improvement Club.” Indeed!

While strolling Langley this past month, readers might also have noticed large black-and-white posters displayed in building windows throughout the commercial center. I’ve enjoyed reading them, stepping back in time, and learning bits and pieces of historic relevance. I’m told that Marty Fernandez, who serves on the city’s Historic Preservation Commission, had a special hand in developing those wonderfully informative posters.

And another “shout out” to historical society president and City Councilman Bob Waterman for pulling together a provocative live presentation of Langley as art colony. The story of early 20th Century artists Peter and Margaret Cove Camfferman, who established a small art colony off Brackenwood, played on the evening of May 21 in the North Star building to a standing room only crowd. To learn of the art colony’s roots while Langley was still a frontier village simply was a delightful experience. So, special thanks to Bob.

Moreover, I want to say a personal thanks to the men and woman who have owned, maintained and preserved Langley’s old buildings scattered around town. We’ve seen some important old buildings refurbished this past year. Your preservation endeavors largely go unsung, but the fact that you so love these commercial and residential places has provided abundant enjoyment for all of us, residents and visitors alike. It’s about character — spirit of place. While Langley’s appealing look is partly due to its stellar seaside location, your colorful and funky buildings contribute richly to that spirit. I thank you for keeping them up. And thanks to city officials who support your endeavors.

That brings me to a concern about one of Langley’s most important and beloved downtown buildings: the 100-year-old “Dog House,” located on First Street at the bottom of Anthes. I am so saddened to see that the “Closed Until Summer” sign in the front window has been amended to state simply, “Closed.”

For decades the friendly tavern-restaurant has served as an important social hub. What’s a village without a funky ol’ village pub? I miss it, and wonder, what can we do about reviving the beloved Old Dog? I do not want to see it perish.

Sharen Heath

Langley