CULTURE November 25, 2021

Tips for a Super Shipping Experience this Holiday Season

Become the expert on shipping and make sure all your gifts get to the right people!

Track Packages

Get a tracking number to check the status of a package online.
Offered by all major couriers — Canada Post, UPS, and FedEx
Ship to a Safe Location
Consider third-party pick-up locations like an Amazon Locker, UPS, or FedEx.
Require a signature upon delivery for valuable items.

Get Rid of Address Labels

Cut or peel labels off boxes before discarding them.
Shred or cut up envelopes with your personal information to prevent identity theft.

Choose the Right Envelope or Package

- Make valuable contents less noticeable by changing up the packaging.
- When mailing a cheque or gift card, consider placing the original envelope inside a larger one.

Footnotes

Photos – Unsplash
Article – © 2021 Buffini & Company. All Rights Reserved. Used by Permission. RMMK NOVEMBER C

CULTURE November 25, 2021

Helpful Holiday Tips For The Home

Want to have a super holiday season? Learn how to prevent these common missteps so you can enjoy the holiday season stress-free with your loved ones!

Kitchen

Not only can overcooking ruin your dinner menu, but it can also lead to a small fire or a ringing smoke detector.

Tip: Assign at least one person to keep an eye on the food in the kitchen — take shifts if necessary. Double-check that the stove, oven, and pressure cooker are powered off when cooking is finished before leaving the kitchen.

Lights

Too many plugs, wires, and lights in one space can cause a holiday fire or blow a fuse.

Tip: At most, connect only three strands of incandescent string lights. Consider purchasing
LED decorative lights — they are safer and will last longer.

Electricity Usage

With all of the decorations, the electric bill can skyrocket.

Tip: Turn off or unplug decorations before heading to bed or leaving the house. Consider syncing up all the decorations to a timer — you’ll put the lights on autopilot and spend less on energy this season.

Chimney

Creosote, a byproduct of wood burning, can release toxins and increase the risk of an uncontrolled fire in your home.

Tip: Schedule a yearly inspection to check for levels of creosote, and arrange a cleaning

Footnotes

Photos – Unsplash
Article – © 2021 Buffini & Company. All Rights Reserved. Used by Permission. RMMK NOVEMBER C

COMMUNITY October 27, 2021

Halloween at Farm Country Brewing in Langley City

Wear a Halloween costume and get entered to win a prize at Farm Country Brewing

They say…

This coming Saturday kicks off Halloween weekend at Farm Country!

This means it’s time for a costume contest. It’s pretty simple; show up in costume and you’re entered to win a boozy gift card prize pack from us and some great local businesses!

Get creative with your costumes, we can’t wait to see what you come up with!

We will also have our Dark Horse Czech Dark Lager back on tap and in cans as well as live music from @musicbyalmostfamous!

Cheers! 👻

For more information see https://www.instagram.com/farmcountrybrewco/

FOOTNOTES
Please visit their website before attending.
Photo via @farmcountrybrewco
Please email rod@impactintl.com for credit or removal.

COMMUNITY October 26, 2021

Are You Ready for Some Halloween Fun?

Get ready for some Halloween fun with the Pumpkin Train (daytime) and Halloween Scare Train (nighttime) at Bear Creek Train and Mini-Golf

Pumpkin Train (Daytime)

Pumpkin express for the little ones Oct 9th -31st from 10 am – 4:30 pm. No online tickets just walk in. Under 2 are free.
Cost: $11.50 per person/under the age of 2 is free. This includes a train ride through the decorated forest, a treat, and a pumpkin! Concession is available.
Location:13750 88 Ave., Surrey, BC

Halloween Scream Train (Night Time) 2021

Oct 16th -31st from 6:30 pm -10 pm.
Cost: $14.70 per person
Recommended for ages 12 and up.

The Halloween scream train is here at Bear Creek Train and Mini-Golf. Dare to come through the haunted forest with their scary creepy actors and don’t let chainsaw Charlie get you!

Purchase tickets online at bctrains.com

FOOTNOTES
Please visit their website before attending.
Photo via @bctrains Please email rod@impactintl.com for credit or removal.

CULTURE October 14, 2021

How to Create a GRATITUDE Campaign

Welcome the holiday season with a gratitude campaign!

Show friends, family, and neighbours how much they mean to you with the following activities.

Write Letters

Write two or three letters per week to share gratitude for those in your life
Identify 10-12 people to write to this month.
Set calendar reminders to pick up the pen!
Mail the letters as you go, so you have less to address and send at a time.

The Formula for All-Star Note Writing

Close your eyes and visualize the person.
Describe their value in your life.
Consider their personal experience and what’s going on for them.
Ask yourself, “How can I make this person’s day?”
Keep it short and sweet.
Send a Gratitude Gift

Say thanks to friends or family members for being in your life with a small appreciation gift, like a:

• Digital gift card for coffee.
• Pie for Thanksgiving.
• Pizza delivery. (One of those delivery companies)
• Batch of fresh-baked cookies.

Have the gift delivered straight to their door (like a pizza or pumpkin pie from your favourite bakery), or drop it off on the porch or mailbox — just make sure to send a heads-up

A time for RECONNECTING

As part of your gratitude campaign, think about friends or family you haven’t reached out to in a while and reconnect. Here are some activities to help you reach out and stay in touch more regularly!

D.E.A.R. Time This stands for “drop everything and read.” Pick a book or article series for you and a friend to read and schedule time weekly or monthly to chat in-person or via video call to share interesting takeaways.

Watch a Show Start a show you’ve both been meaning to watch, and talk about it over coffee or on a call!

Plan a Trip This is a great one for old friends living in different areas. Identify a destination you’d both like to visit, and start planning an adventure for the new year. You’ll chat regularly and have something to look forward to!

Recipe Swap For friends who like to cook (or want to improve), set up a recipe swap. Hop on a call once a month to catch up and go over what you’ve been cooking. You might even make a meal together over a video call. This works for beverages too!

Download a PDF version of this article – CLICK HERE

FOOTNOTES:

Photo Credits:
Main Photo and Pen – Canva.com
Gift and Friends – Unsplash.com
No Copywrite infringement intended. Photos – Please contact us for credit or removal rod@impactintl.net

abbotsford October 5, 2021

Looking for a Fraser Valley Pumpkin Patch?

Looking for a local pumpkin patch in Fraser Valley, British Columbia? Scroll down and see several that we could find. Visiting these farms is a fun family activity and most of the venues have extra activities like hayrides, corn mazes, petting zoos, baking, and food.

If you know of one that we missed, please let us know! Also, always call or check out the venue’s website before you go to confirm the information. Note: Please call ahead, or check their website for dates and times. This article was printed in 2021.

Pumpkin Patch at Aldor Acres @aldoracres
DESCRIPTION: Come visit Aldor Acres for the Fall Pumpkin Patch & Market!
– Wide variety of Pumpkins of all sorts of different shapes, sizes, & colors
– Farm Market open with fresh produce, preserves, honey, meat, eggs, snacks, & much more
– Open-air animal interactions spread out across 5 acres – pigs, ducks, goats, donkeys, chickens, sheep, bunnies, emus, horses, cows, & much more!
LEARN MORE – https://aldoracresfamilyfarm.ca
VENUE – Aldor Acres Family Farm, 84 Avenue, Langley, BC, Canada

2021 Chilliwack Corn Maze
DESCRIPTION: Along with the corn maze they have pumpkins and hayrides
TIME: Check the website for various times
VENUE: 41905 Yale Rd W, Chilliwack, BC V2R 4J4
WEBSITE: https://chilliwackcornmaze.com/events/

Pumpkin Patch at Eagle Acres @eagleacresdairy
DESCRIPTION: Pumpkin Patch? Let’s GO!!
LEARN MORE – https://eagleacres.tickit.ca/events/11948
LOCATION – Eagle Acres Dairy & Pumpkin Patch, 240 Street, Langley, BC, Canada
PHOTO – @eagleacresdairy

Upick Pumpkin Patch at Krause Berry Farms @krauseberryfarms
DESCRIPTION: Find and pick your own pumpkins or select them from our pre-picked pumpkins.
LEARN MORE – https://www.krauseberryfarms.com
LOCATION: 6179 248th Street, Langley, BC, V4W 1C3
PHOTO: https://www.krauseberryfarms.com

Laity Pumpkin Patch @laitypumpkinpatch
DESCRIPTION: We will be open for the 2021 season from September 30 to October 31, 2021 at each of our TWO locations. New attractions for 2021 have been added to each location. We look forward to seeing you!
VENUE 1 – 21145 128 Ave, Maple Ridge, BC V4R 2R9
VENUE 2 – 12725 Laity St, Maple Ridge, BC V2X 5B4
LEARN MORE – https://laitypumpkinpatch.com
PHOTO CREDIT – @laitypumpkinpatch

Pumpkin Patch at Loft Country Farms @loftcountry
DESCRIPTION: Loft Country Farms is excited to be opening its doors as a pumpkin patch for the first time this October! They will have beautiful acres of pumpkin patches, horse-drawn carriage rides, a petting zoo, an Old Western Town, live entertainment and so much more! It is the perfect family fun day in the fall.
LEARN MORE – https://www.loftcountry.org/farms
LOCATION – Loft Country, 248 Street, Langley, BC, Canada
PHOTO CREDIT – @loftcountry

FOOTNOTES
Main photo – @loftcountry https://www.instagram.com/p/CRfy3XpjXPj/
Photos – Please contact us for credit or removal rod@impactintl.net No copyright infringement intended.

abbotsford September 28, 2021

October 2021 Fraser Valley Events

Looking for something to do in October? We’ve got you covered especially if you are looking for pumpkins! See all of the great pumpkin-related events below along with many other wonderful and interesting things to do.

See events in Abbotsford, Chilliwack, Langley, Surrey, and Maple Ridge below.

ABBOTSFORD

ABBOTSFORD FARM & COUNTRY MARKET
DESCRIPTION: Abbotsford’s longest-running farmers’ market featuring the best local vendors and fresh, real food.
DATE: May 1 (Saturday) 9:00 am – October 30 (Saturday) 12:00 pm
TIME: Every Saturday from 9 am – NOON
LOCATION – Jubilee Park, 2552 McCallum Road, on the edge of Downtown Abbotsford.
WEBSITE – https://afcm.ca/
PHOTO – https://www.instagram.com/abbotsfordfarmandcountrymarket

THE SKY’S NO LIMIT: GIRLS FLY TOO!
FREE AVIATION, AEROSPACE, MARINE, AND DEFENCE OUTREACH EVENT
DESCRIPTION: The Sky’s No Limit – Girls Fly Too! is not just for “girls”. It’s the world’s largest FREE gender diversity outreach event of its kind in Aviation, Aerospace, Marine and Defence. This event features interactive aircraft displays, hands-on activities related to aviation, and a treasure hunt for all participants. There will be free helicopter flights for female first-time fliers! Everyone is welcome regardless of age, gender or citizenship and no registration is required. All event participants aged 12 and up, display partners and volunteers will be required to show proof of being fully vaccinated to gain entry to our free event – without exception.
DATE: October 2 and 3, 2021
VENUE – Abbotsford Airport 1625 Townline Road
WEBSITE and PHOTO CREDIT – https://www.girlsfly2.ca/

DRAGONFLIES CEILIDH FUSED GLASS SHOP
GRAND OPENING
DESCRIPTION: We are so excited to announce that a local artist, Victoria Carpenter, is opening a store for her fused glass art! Victoria has been creating fused glass art for the past 15 years and teaching in her studio in Abbotsford and at the Mission and Abbotsford Art Councils for the past 6 years. She has transformed her studio to include a store, and will now sell her beautiful glass creations as well as supplies for her students and glass artists.

Learn more about Victoria and Dragonflies Ceilidh at her website (and photo credit), www.dragonfliesceilidh.com or on Instagram (@dragonfliesceilidh) and join her Grand Opening on the 2 & 3 of October.

BROTHERS OSBORNE
WE’RE NOT FOR EVERYONE TOUR
DESCRIPTION: On the WE’RE NOT FOR EVERYONE TOUR, fans can expect to hear the band’s six GRAMMY-nominated singles including No. 1 Platinum-Certified hit “Stay A Little Longer,” rowdy Top 10 Platinum-Certified hit “It Ain’t My Fault,” the reminiscent Top 25 hit “21 Summer,” as well as Top 40 hits “Shoot Me Straight,” “I Don’t Remember Me (Before You),” and “All Night.”
DATE: October 21
TIME: (Thursday) 7:30 pm – 10:30 pm
LOCATION – Abbotsford Centre, 33800 King Road
WEBSITE – https://www.abbotsfordcentre.ca/event/brothers-osborne/138/

ABBOTSFORD CANUCKS HOME OPENER
DESCRIPTION: Abbotsford’s home opener is set for Friday, Oct. 22 vs the Henderson Silver Knights. The Canucks will play 34 home games this season, with 25 of those games taking place on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday. All Sunday home games will start at 4:00 pm PT, providing a great opportunity for the whole family to see their Abbotsford Canucks live in action.
DATE: October 22, 2021
TIME: (Friday) 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
LOCATION – Abbotsford Centre, 33800 King Road
WEBSITE – https://abbotsford.canucks.com/

CHILLIWACK

2021 Chilliwack Corn Maze
DATE: October 1 – October 31st
TIME: Check website for various times
VENUE: 41905 Yale Rd W, Chilliwack, BC V2R 4J4
WEBSITE and PHOTO CREDIT: https://chilliwackcornmaze.com/events/

HARVEST LAUNCH PARTY
DATE: October 2, 2021
TIME: 2:00 pm – 10:00 pm
LOCATION: BC Urban Kitchen & Wine Bar, #101A 43869 Progress Way
LEARN MORE – https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/harvest-launch-party-tickets-173907501017?keep_tld=1

LOOP THE VEDDER TRAIL HALF MARATHON & 10K RUN
DATE: October 30, 2021
TIME: 8:00 am – 1:00 pm
VENUE – Vedder River Trail
LEARN MORE and PHOTO CREDIT: https://peaksnvalleys.ca/loopthevedder/

SURREY

All Dressed In White Bridal Show
DESCRIPTION: Welcome to All Dressed in White Bridal Show, home of the most beautiful bridal shows in the BC Lower Mainland as well as an incredible wedding planning directory. Plan your dream wedding in just one day at an All Dressed in White Bridal Show. All Dressed in White Bridal Shows let you gather ideas for the biggest day of your life while meeting the best wedding vendors all under one roof!. Plan your dream wedding in just one day at All Dressed in White Bridal Show with the best wedding vendors in the lower mainland all under one roof!.
DATE: October 3, 2021
VENUE – Eaglequest Golf, Surrey
WEBSITE – https://www.all-dressed-in-white.com/
PHOTO – https://www.instagram.com/adiwbridalshow

Clayton’s Sunday Market
DATE and TIME: Sun., Oct. 3, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
LOCATION – 7003-188 Street, Surrey
WEBSITE and PHOTO CREDIT – https://stayhappening.com/e/claytons-sunday-market-E2ISTRDECWE

Surrey’s Heritage Railway Halloween Train-Sullivan Haunted Station
DESCRIPTION: We’re back! We will be running the Halloween Train this year! Four trips a day – Saturday, Oct. 16, and Sunday, Oct. 17, 2021.
WEBSITE – https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/surreys-heritage-railway-halloween-train-sullivan-haunted-station-oct-16-tickets-166012159839

Surrey Nights: Robert Silverman plays Bach
DESCRIPTION: A master of the international stage, Vancouver’s own Robert Silverman brings an intimate performance of Bach to the Chan Centre at UBC and Bell Performing Arts Centre in Surrey.
DATE: October 24, 2021
TIME: 7:00 PM
VENUE – Bell Performing Arts Centre, 6250 144 St, Surrey, BC
WEBSITE and PHOTO CREDIT: https://www.vancouversymphony.ca/event/goldberg-variations-with-robert-silverman-surrey/

4th Annual Spooktacular Halloween Market
DESCRIPTION: Spooktacular Halloween Market is a family-friendly event with both artisan vendors and kids’ activities. Money raised is donated to the Surrey Hospitals Foundation. Admission is by donation.
DATE and TIME: Sat., Oct. 16, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
VENUE: Shannon Hall, 6050 176 St, Surrey, BC
WEBSITE and PHOTO CREDIT – https://www.facebook.com/events/6050-176th-st-surrey-bc/4th-annual-spooktacular-halloween-market/3070782426488878/

Market Sunday & Mini-Oktoberfest
DATE: Sun., Oct. 17, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
LOCATION – Clayton Community Farmer’s Market, 7003 188 St, Surrey, BC
WEBSITE and PHOTO CREDIT – https://allevents.in/surrey/market-sunday-and-mini-oktoberfest/200021581627315

Pumpkin Patch at Aldor Acres
DESCRIPTION: Come visit Aldor Acres for the Fall Pumpkin Patch & Market!
– Wide variety of Pumpkins of all sorts of different shapes, sizes, & colors
– Farm Market open with fresh produce, preserves, honey, meat, eggs, snacks, & much more
– Open-air animal interactions spread out across 5 acres – pigs, ducks, goats, donkeys, chickens, sheep, bunnies, emus, horses, cows, & much more!
DATE: September 18 – October 31, 2021
TIME: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
VENUE – Aldor Acres Family Farm, 84 Avenue, Langley, BC, Canada
WEBSITE – https://aldoracresfamilyfarm.ca/tickets/

Pumpkin Patch at Eagle Acres
Pumpkin Patch? Let’s GO!!
DATES: October 1-31 Excluding – October 4, 12, 18, 25
TIMES: Check website
LOCATION – Eagle Acres Dairy & Pumpkin Patch, 240 Street, Langley, BC, Canada
WEBSITE – https://eagleacres.ca/pumpkins

Pumpkin Patch at Loft Country Farms
DESCRIPTION: Loft Country Farms is excited to be opening its doors as a pumpkin patch for the first time this October! They will have beautiful acres of pumpkin patches, horse-drawn carriage rides, a petting zoo, an Old Western Town, live entertainment and so much more! It is the perfect family fun day in the fall.
DATE: October 1 – 31, 2021
TIME: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
LOCATION – Loft Country, 248 Street, Langley, BC, Canada
WEBSITE – https://www.loftcountry.org/farms

Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off
DESCRIPTION: Giant Pumpkin Growers from British Columbia and the Pacific Northwest will converge on Saturday, October 2, 2021, to enter BC’s Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off Event! Contestants will weigh their Gargantuan Gourds, as well as other giant fruits and veggies, in front of a large crowd of enthusiastic spectators, fellow growers, and the media!
DATE: October 2, 2021
TIME: 11:00 am to 3:00 pm
VENUE: Krause Berry Farms & Estate Winery, 248 Street, Langley Township, BC, Canada
WEBSITE: https://www.facebook.com/events/544429226812091/?ref=newsfeed

Fort Langley Night Market
DESCRIPTION: Come check out the Fort Langley Night Market happening every Friday Night until October 8th featuring a stage with live, local music, beer market, vendor market of local artisans and BC sourced goods, lawn games, food trucks and more!
DATE: October 1, 2021
TIME: 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm
VENUE – 9166 Glover Road, Langley, BC, Canada
WEBSITE – https://www.fortlangleyproject.org/

Fort Langley Field Days
DESCRIPTION: Looking for something fun to do with the family? Come check out Fort Langley Field Days happening every Saturday afternoon until October 9th featuring a stage with live, local music, beer market, lawn games, food trucks and more!
DATE: October 2, 2021
TIME – 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm
VENUE – 9166 Glover Road, Langley, BC, Canada
WEBSITE – https://www.fortlangleyproject.org

Fort Langley Fall Beer & Food Festival
WE’RE BACK!
DESCRIPTION: After a year and a half of no events, festivals, and concerts, we are so excited to be BACK! Celebrate & enjoy the best of the Fraser Valley on Saturday, October 2 with live music, 30+ craft breweries, local food vendors, cideries, wineries, and more! Your ticket includes admission, a 4oz sampling glass (that you get to keep!), 3 tokens, live music & a full day of fun with friends! The event is rain or shine, sorry no refunds! 19+ (two pieces of ID required, no babies). We recommend carpooling or taking transit as parking is limited. Please don’t drink or drive!
DATE: October 2, 2021
TIME: 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm
VENUE – Fort Langley Park, Nash Street, Langley, BC, Canada
WEBSITE and PHOTO CREDIT – https://www.fortlangley.beer/

JIM BYRNES with SIMON KENDALL and Special Guest BABE GURR
DATE: Saturday, October 23, 2021
VENUE – Chief Sepass Theatre
WEBSITE and PHOTOS – https://do250.com/events/2021/10/23/jim-byrnes-with-simon-kendall-and-guests-babe-gurr-tickets

Thanksgiving Centerpiece Workshop
DESCRIPTION: We have had so many requests to offer this class again due to how fun the last one was! Imagine an enjoyable afternoon at our family-run flower farm and create a beautiful and unique “garden gathered” bouquet that will adorn your table for Thanksgiving weekend. You will get your choice of pumpkins and gourds to create the perfect vessels that will hold your flowers.
DATE: October 9, 2021
TIME: 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm
VENUE – Early Bird Family Farm, 256 Street, Langley, BC, Canada
WEBSITE and PHOTO CREDIT – https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/create-a-thanksgiving-centrepiece-using-fresh-cut-flowers-and-a-gourd-vase-tickets-169428131101

Grave Tales
DESCRIPTION: Grave Tales is back! Join expert storytellers for a two- or three-hour program of spine-chilling stories, as you walk through the Fort Langley village at night.
DATE: October 15-17, 2021
TIME: 6:00 pm to 12:00 am
VENUE – Fort Langley National Historic Site of Canada, Mavis Avenue, Langley, BC, Canada
WEBSITE – https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/lhn-nhs/bc/langley/activ/calendrier-calendar/0b19eb80-f3a3-4385-a4a6-e27bdaece921

Vintage in the Barn
DESCRIPTION: Come check out everything vintage at Red Door Barn and pick up some treasures from the following vendors:

Red Door Barn
Basement Creations
Copper Reata
Forest Knolls Vintage
Nostalgic Nest

DATE: October 16, 2021
TIME: 10:00 am to 3:00 pm
VENUE – 22025 26 Avenue, Langley, BC, Canada
WEBSITE and PHOTO CREDIT – https://www.facebook.com/reddoorfarmlangley

Fort Langley Cranberry Festival
VENUE: 9160 Glover Rd, Langley Twp, BC V1M, Canada
WEBSITE and PHOTO CREDIT – https://www.facebook.com/events/849519965758886

MAPLE RIDGE

Haney Farmers Market
DATE: MAY – OCTOBER
TIME: 9 am – 2 pm
VENUE – Memorial Peace Park, Maple Ridge, BC
WEBSITE – https://www.farmersandmore.org/locations-maple-ridge
PHOTO CREDIT – https://www.facebook.com/haneyfarmersmarket/photos

Laity Pumpkin Patch
DESCRIPTION: We will be open for the 2021 season from September 30 to October 31, 2021 at each of our TWO locations. New attractions for 2021 have been added to each location. We look forward to seeing you!
DATE: September 1 – October 31
TIME: Check website
VENUE 1 – 21145 128 Ave, Maple Ridge, BC V4R 2R9
VENUE 2 – 12725 Laity St, Maple Ridge, BC V2X 5B4
LEARN MORE – https://laitypumpkinpatch.com
PHOTO CREDIT – @laitypumpkinpatch

FOOTNOTES
Source for Langley events – https://www.tourism-langley.ca/events
Source for Abbotsford events – https://tourismabbotsford.ca/events
Main photo – https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/create-a-thanksgiving-centrepiece-using-fresh-cut-flowers-and-a-gourd-vase-tickets-169428131101
Photos – Please contact us for credit or removal rod@impactintl.net

COMMUNITY September 20, 2021

How to Plan a Thanksgiving Dinner on a Budget (Updated)

Unlike last year due to the COVID-19, it looks like it will be safe to gather for Canadian Thanksgiving this year. With that in mind, you might be starting to think about providing a Thanksgiving meal and the cost of doing so! To try and help you with that, here’s a repost of an article on “How to Plan a Thanksgiving Dinner on a Budget.”

_ _ _ _ _

This time of year can be stressful and straining on our finances. There’s Thanksgiving, Halloween, and then Christmas. It’s tough sometimes to stick to a budget, especially when you want to make everything special for your family. Here are some budget-friendly Thanksgiving tips to help you save some money this year!

Food

Make a menu ahead of time so you know what you are having and exactly what you need to pick up from the grocery store. If you go into the store with no plan, you’ll come out with things you don’t need!
Shop sales! There are usually some pretty sweet deals on Thanksgiving staples this time of year. Check prices and see where has the cheapest turkeys.
Start early! If you plan your meal a few weeks in advance, you can keep an eye out for other ingredients you need to go on sale.
Make it a potluck! Even if you want to provide the main meal, there are still a lot of other things to consider around a Thanksgiving meal. Have someone else bring drinks, or dessert, or appies, dinner rolls, salad or whatever else you need. Just because you are hosting, doesn’t mean you have to do it ALL.
Keep it simple! You don’t have to go all out. Make larger amounts of the Thanksgiving classics rather than smaller amounts of everything.
Don’t use disposable plates and cutlery. It may save time, but buying it all adds up!

Decor

Again, keep it simple. Try to make some of your decor DIY style. Or even get your kids to help create a centrepiece for the table.
Hit up your local Dollar Store. Seriously, they have some pretty nice things. Sometimes just a little tweak here or there can make something so cheap look much more expensive!
Find things from nature! My daughters and I made a really neat looking centrepiece last week. All we did was collect some things from outside like pinecones, rocks, leaves, pieces of wood. Then we arranged it all in a glass vase and voila! We had ourselves a centrepiece!
Use things for multiple purposes. You can decorate some Mason jars with burlap and ribbon, then use them as utensil holders. You don’t have to make things specifically for decor, kill two birds with one stone instead.
Put out a cornucopia or a bowl of fresh, seasonal fruit! These not only look great but if people want an apple or something after Thanksgiving dinner, they can just go ahead and grab one!

Above all, take the time to enjoy yourself! Be thankful for all the things we have in our lives, be thankful you can host a big dinner. Spend time with family and friends, don’t get too caught up in the details. The memories being created are more important than the perfect centerpiece or creamiest mashed potatoes!

abbotsford September 4, 2021

September 2021 Fraser Valley Events

From a fine art show at the Glass House Winery in Langley to a Country Music show at the Bell Performing Arts Centre in Surrey, here are several Fraser Valley events you may want to check out in September 2021.

LANGLEY

FOREV CIRCUS SHOW: Join our adventures in life on stage
Date: Sat., Sep. 25, 7:30 p.m. – Sun., Sep. 26, 6:00 p.m.
Location: Circus Lab, 19840 96 Avenue, Langley City, Canada
Link and Photo: https://allevents.in/langley%20city/forev-circus-show-join-our-adventures-in-life-on-stage-80-min-pause/10000127527049839

BC8s Event: WrenchFest
Date: Sat., Sep. 18
Location: 19950 46 Ave, Langley, BC
They say: Meet other E31 owners and discuss common problems. Come to work on your car, help someone work on their car
Link and Photo: https://allevents.in/langley%20city/forev-circus-show-join-our-adventures-in-life-on-stage-80-min-pause/10000127527049839

Fall Finale: TBIRD (BC)
Date: Wed., Sep. 22 – Sun., Sep. 26
Location: Thunderbird Show Park – 24550 72 Ave, Langley, BC
Link: http://www.theyegequestrian.com/events/2021-09-22/

The West Fine Art Show
Date: Open Times: Friday, September 17 – 5-9 pm, Saturday, September 18 – 11 am -7 pm, Sunday, September 19 – 11 am -5 pm
Location: Glass House Estate Winery, 0 Avenue, Langley, BC, Canada
They say: “Presenting our the twelfth-annual Late-Summer edition of the West Fine Art Show. This spectacular destination-art-show, with free admission, will amaze you. We feature 18 exceptional artists in a three-day exhibition making it a perfect weekend adventure. The show also features John Gilliat performing on guitar. Hosted at Glass House Estate Winery at 23449 0 Avenue in beautiful South Langley, B.C., our show is in partnership with the Langley Hospice Society. Partial proceeds of all art sales at the show will be donated by the artists to the Langley Hospice Society.
Link and Photo: https://www.tourism-langley.ca/event/west-fine-art-show-late-summer-edition

Community Heritage Day
Date: Sat., Sep. 25, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Location: Alder Grove Heritage Society – 3190 271 St, Aldergrove, BC
They say: Aldergrove Community Heritage Day is a chance for residents to come to the museum, learn about the area’s history and see many items that aren’t usually on display. This year we have a special…
Link and photo: https://www.tourism-langley.ca/event/west-fine-art-show-late-summer-edition

SURREY

Grand Opening of Mojitos Pub with Sonora Dinamita
Date: Sat., Sep. 18, 9:00 p.m. – Sun., Sep. 19, 2:00 a.m.
Location: Mojitos Pub – 12411 King George Blvd, Surrey, BC
Grand Opening of Mojitos Pub y Fiesta de Independencia with Sonora Dinamita!
Link: https://allevents.in/surrey/grand-opening-of-mojitos-pub-with-sonora-dinamita/10000166676639315?ref=footer-up-ep-upcoming

Aaron Halliday Light’em Up Tour
Date: Fri., Sep. 10, 8:00 – 11:00 p.m.
Location: Royal Canadian Legion Branch 6- 17567 57 Ave, Surrey, BC
They say: Aaron Halliday returns with the release of his new Album Light’em Up! Aaron together with the full band is returning to one of their favorite venues in BC.
Link: https://allevents.in/surrey/aaron-halliday-lightem-up-tour/10000159032844519

ABBOTSFORD

Abbotsford Farm and Country Market
Date: Sat, Sep 4 2021, 9am – 12pm
Location: Weekly on Saturday at 9:00 am until Sat, Oct 30, 2021
They say: Visit the Farmers Market every Saturday from May 1 to October 30, featuring local vendors and fresh, real food.
Located in Jubilee Park, 2552 McCallum Road, on the edge of Downtown Abbotsford.
Link: https://www.abbotsford.ca/community-events/events-abbotsford/abbotsford-farm-and-country-market
Photo: Photo by Earl Wilcox on Unsplash

MCC Festival for World Relief – 2021
Date: Sat., Sep. 18, 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Location: Tradex – 1190 Cornell St, Abbotsford, BC
They say: Let’s change lives together this September! Join MCC, September 17 & 18 at the Tradex in Abbotsford for the MCC Festival for World Relief.
Link: https://globalnews.ca/event/8099028/mcc-festival-for-world-relief-2/

CHILLIWACK

Chilliwack Sunflower Festival 2021
Date: Sat., Sep. 4, 3:00 p.m. – Sun., Sep. 5, 2:00 a.m.
Location: 41310 Yale Rd, Chilliwack, BC
They say: Chilliwack Sunflower Festival brought to you by the creators of Chilliwack Tulip Festival on September 4, 2021
Link: https://www.wonderweek.ca/event/55043/chilliwack-sunflower-festival-2021-september-4-8-00am
Photo: @jennihunterphotography

City-Wide Garage Sale
Date: Sat., Sep. 25
Location: 8550 Young Rd, Chilliwack, BC
They say: The City-Wide Garage Sale is a unique opportunity for residents to promote the reuse of materials. There are two City-Wide Garage Sales held each year, one in the spring and one in the fall.
Link: https://www.chilliwack.com/main/page.cfm?id=1204
Photo by Donatella D’Anniballe on Unsplash

MAPLE RIDGE

28th Annual Ridge Meadows Rivers Day
Date: Sun., Sep. 26, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Location: Allco Park 13255 Alouette Rd, Maple Ridge, BC
They say: This year ARMS is celebrating the 28th Annual Ridge Meadows Rivers Day on September 26th, 2021. The Annual Ridge Meadows Event will be held at ALLCO Park this year.

Bard on the Bandstand
Date: Fri., Sep. 10, 7:00 p.m.
Location: Memorial Peace Park 22407 Dewdney Trunk Rd, Maple Ridge, BC
They say: Friday, September 10 through Sunday, September 12, from 7pm nightly, come see live theatre on the Bandstand at the Memorial Peace Park in Maple Ridge. The show is free, as always.
Link: https://www.mapleridge.ca/Calendar.aspx?EID=6715

FOOTNOTES
Main Photo: @bernicephoto
Photos – Please contact us for credit or removal rod@impactintl.net

abbotsford August 20, 2021

Where to Find High-Quality Spirits in the Fraser Valley

Our publisher Mike Wilson was at the White Rock Market recently and was impressed by the Whisky he tasted from a local Fraser Valley distillery, Mainland Whisky (see more below). That got us wondering about other local distilleries and we discovered that the Fraser Valley is a host to a number of older and newer distilleries that sell a variety of high-quality Spirits including…

Central City Brewers and Distillers have been around for a number of years and are quite well known for their Red Racer Craft Beer, but did you know that they also make Lohin McKinnon Whisky, Sparrow Premium Rum, and Queensborough Japanese Style Gin? Link: Central City https://centralcitybrewing.com/visit-us/distillery

Crows Nest Distillery in Abbotsford makes Vodka, Rum, and Spiced Rum. The Crows Nest Distillery was started by Stefano Paolone way back in the early 1900s. He brought his winemaking and spirits making skills with him from the old country. Fast forward to today and Daniel Paolone and his friend Ian Jarvis are rekindling the family tradition and combining years of family knowledge to make a variety of spirits using local ingredients found in British Columbia.1 Link: Crows Nest Distillery in Abbotsford https://www.crowsnestdistillery.com/index.html

Dragon Mist Distillery is in Surrey and they make vodka gin and a number of different liqueurs. They say, “We are proud to distill some of the finest quality spirits made in British Columbia. We follow the craft distillers’ code of conduct when creating all our products. Whether it’s our flagship Baijiu Vodka or Gin or any of our delicious liqueurs we’re confident you’ll find something to delight your palate.” 2 Link: Dragon Mist Distillery https://dragonmistdistillery.com

Goodridge and Williams Distillery and Cocktails Company is one of the craft spirits and crafted cocktail leaders in the industry in Canada. They make an array of interesting tasty spirits and drinks. Their brands include NUTRL Vodka, Tempo Gin, Goodridge and Williams Canadian Whisky, Sid The Handcrafted Vodka, Yes Guy Hard Iced Tea, and Still Maker Old Fashioned. Link:: Goodridge and Williams Distillery and Cocktails Co. https://gwdistilling.com

Lucid Spirits uses only BC-grown products to make their base alcohols. They do all of their fermentation and distillation on-site to create their ultra-premium products such as Vodka, Vodka Pina Colada, two types of Gin, and a variety of liqueurs, Rye, and a Spirit called Cinnamon Kiss. Link: Lucid Spirits https://lucidspirits.ca

Mainland Whisky says their craft American-style Whiskey and Whiskey liqueurs are influenced by American Moonshine recipes. Their small-batch corn Whiskey and Whiskey liqueurs are made in a hybrid reflux still with organic ingredients in Surrey BC. There are no additives, they are non-chill filtered and they are a craft distillery.

If you want to stop by and have a tasting, you can! At the Mainland Whiskey Cocktail Lounge and Whiskey Shop. They take private bookings for their tasting lounge that has a 15-foot bar and 125-inch projector screen. They have a new cocktail list each month and small snacks are available. They are also open Wednesday to Sunday during the afternoon and evening. Call them at 604-372-4424 for more information or see their website. 3 Link: Mainland Whisky https://mainlandwhisky.com Photo: @mainlandwhisky

New Wave Distilling is in the heart of the Fraser Valley tucked into a garden oasis. At their tasting room in Abbotsford BC, they offer cocktails, beer, and wine by the glass and wine and spirit tasting flights. They also have charcuterie and bistro snacks, a heated patio, and a grassy picnic area. They say, “our product line is inspired by our love for the Fraser Valley and the surrounding mountains.” They are a locally owned and operated family business. Many of their spirits are made from organic blueberries grown and picked on their family farm. Link: New Wave Distilling https://newwavedistilling.com

NorthWest Distilling Co. makes handcrafted Spirits made with British Columbia ingredients. They are owned and operated by “young people” from British Columbia. Their company focuses on a small-batch approach to distilling. They say, “by diligence on quality we aim to create products as beautiful as the scenery we make it in.“ they make Northwest Extra Smooth Vodka that is distilled 10 times before mixing it with “world-famous BC mountain freshwater“. This Maple Ridge company has a lounge coming soon. 4 Link: NorthWest Distilling Co. https://www.northwestdistillingco.ca

Ravens Distillery is a new venture from Ravens Brewing in Abbotsford BC. They say “after the success of our beer we thought we could contribute something fresh to the world of spirits. The first of which is our flagship Vodka.” They also make Gin. If you want to try them out, you can visit their tasting room in Abbotsford. Link: Ravens Distilling https://ravensdistilling.com Photo: @ravensdistillery

Roots and Wings Distillery makes artisan spirits. They are homegrown and handcrafted at their farm in Langley, British Columbia. You can also visit the distillery for tastings and craft cocktails. Roots and Wings Distillery is Langley‘s first craft distillery. They are located in Fort Langley and they welcome visitors to sample and purchase their fine spirits in their tasting room. You can also browse in their vintage bar gift shop. The products include Vodka, Whiskey, Gin, and Absinthe. Link: Roots and Wings Distillery https://www.rootsandwingsdistillery.ca

SR Winery and Distillery makes locally handcrafted rice wine and barley spirit in the Korean tradition. They are a small company founded by Master Distiller Yoo and his family who have been supplying restaurants throughout Metro Vancouver for over 10 years with unpasteurized Makgeolli (Korean cloudy rice wine). With changes in legislation in 2013, it became feasible for craft distilleries to start producing local spirits and master Yoo and his family started to produce better quality Soju (Korean spirit) with local ingredients. “The company’s intention is to help people rediscover the original taste and tradition of High-quality Soju and Makgeolli.” 5 Link: SR Winery and Distillery https://www.facebook.com/MAQsoju

Do you have a favorite Fraser Valley distillery? Let us know in the comments below or comment on our Instagram or Facebook page.

_ _ _ _ _

FOOTNOTES

1 Crows Nest Distillery in Abbotsford https://www.crowsnestdistillery.com/index.html

2 Dragon Mist Distillery https://dragonmistdistillery.com

3 Mainland Whisky https://mainlandwhisky.com

4 North West Distilling Co. https://www.northwestdistillingco.ca

5 SR Winery and Distillery https://www.facebook.com/MAQsoju

Main Photo: @rawstillhouse

Email rod@impactintl.net for inclusion in future articles.