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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.

CULTURE August 12, 2021

Cyber Security for You and Your Kids

When Working from Home

When working remotely, it’s important to stick to the same cyber safety guidelines as though you were in the office. With the FBI reporting an uptick in cybercrime related to coronavirus,1 it’s important to stay vigilant while connected at home.

Use Strong Passwords
Passwords for WiFi and work accounts should be unique and tough to crack. Start with a special phrase that is at least 12 characters. Incorporate uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid including personal information, and don’t use the same password for everything.

Updates Matter
Install the latest updates for all devices, programs, and apps, which typically include improved security measures. Where possible, opt for automatic updates.

Double Up on Security
Multi-factor authentication gives your work accounts an extra layer of security. This feature requires you to confirm your identity by way of another device when logging in somewhere new. Also, consider requiring a password for online video conference calls.

Consider a VPN
If your company does not use a Virtual Private Network (VPN), consider investing in your own. This software secures your network to reduce your risk of a hack. Popular services include NordVPN and ExpressVPN.

Watch Out for Fake Emails!!!

Hackers often target individuals first with personalized fake emails or phishing emails. Before you act:

Review the Sender’s Email Address:
It may look like a message from your bank or a colleague, but a misspelled or incorrect email address indicates it’s fake.

Hover, Not Click:
Place your cursor over the link to read the URL. An unrecognizable site is a big red flag, so don’t click it.

Check the Tone:
Urgent, fearful messages requiring immediate action and a deadline are typically fake — even if they look like they’re from a co-worker.

Report It:
Notify your IT department immediately of the message following company protocol.

Keeping Your Kids Safe Online

With schools moving to virtual learning and limits on outdoor activities, kids are spending a lot more time online. Here are some tips to help make sure they use their devices safely.

Know What Your Kid Are Up To
Understand your kids’ Internet habits. Know what sites they visit for school and for fun, and talk to them if you see something unusual.

PRO-TIP:
For the little ones, try installing YouTube Kids instead of normal YouTube on their devices.

Block Dangerous Websites
Talk to your Internet provider if you want to block certain websites from your network.

Set the Ground Rules
Consider asking your kids to stay nearby when they’re using their devices and setting rules for what sites they can visit and when — i.e. YouTube allowed after school hours only.

Have a Conversation with Your Kids

Outline the rules and set expectations for responsible online behavior.
Educate kids on cyber safety so they understand for themselves the risks of unfamiliar websites, mysterious downloads, and conversations with strangers on the web.
Share tips on creating strong passwords, protecting personal information, and using social media safely — especially relevant for teens and tweens.

Download a pdf of this article: Cyber Security PDF 8-9-21

Concerned about privacy online? Click here for an excellent article on The Social Dilemma – 10 Ways to Improve Your Privacy Online.

FOOTNOTES
© 2020 Buffini & Company. All Rights Reserved. Used by Permission. RMMK APRIL BONUS C
1. FBI, “FBI Sees Rise in Fraud Schemes Related to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic,” March 20, 2020. 2. AVG Survey, 2018

abbotsford August 4, 2021

August 2021 Fraser Valley Events

Are things beginning to open up a little? The August events calendar suggests that they might be!

That said, please check into the details of the events listed below before you attend and follow the COVID protocols.

Here are some handpicked events happening in August 2021 in the Fraser Valley.

Have fun!

Abbotsford

Abbotsford International Airshow 2021
Fri., Aug. 6 – Sun., Aug. 8
Abbotsford Int’l Airport – 30440 Liberator Ave, Abbotsford, BC
See Website
They say: “SkyDrive brings the aerial excitement of Canada’s National Airshow back to the skies over Abbotsford with a drive-in twist. Airshow fans will enjoy the show from the comfort of their own 400 square foot-space on the airfield alongside their vehicle. Performers include the snowbirds, F-22 Raptor, CF-18 Hornet and F-18 Super Hornet.”
Photo Credit Please see footnote below.

Sun & Soil Concert Series – Ryan McAllister
Fri., Aug. 20, 6:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Mt Lehman Winery – 5094 Mount Lehman Rd, Abbotsford, BC
See Facebook
They say: “This concert series celebrates our Handmade & Homegrown community of Abbotsford by featuring local musicians, local farms, and local food for an intimate and flavourful concert experience.”

Horsepower for Hospice Show & Shine
Sat., Aug. 21, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Mt Lehman Winery – 5094 Mount Lehman Rd, Abbotsford, BC
See Facebook
They say: “Join us for this FREE (by donation) Classic Car Show & Shine event at Mount Lehman Winery! There will be fun for the whole family with entertainment, food trucks, prize draws, and of course lots of vintage cars! Register your vintage car for only $35 on our website. The event will take place rain or shine. Join us for fun and support Abbotsford families! Event generously sponsored by TravelandRV”

Langley

Golf For Kids Sake 2021
Wed., Aug. 11, 2021
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Langley – 20538 Fraser Hwy #201, Langley, BC
See Website
They say: “Proceeds from the golf tournament will ignite the potential of young people through the power of mentoring. Funds raised will ensure that Big Brothers Big Sisters of Langley is able to continue serving over 400 children and youth each year by providing them with another caring and trusting adult in their lives.”

City Summer Beats – Concert in Douglas Park
Sat., Aug. 14, 12:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Spirit Square – 20550 Douglas Crescent #4B6, Langley, BCSee: City Summer Beats
See Website
They say: “Enjoy a fantastic lineup of live music at this family-friendly event. Everyone is welcome – Be sure to bring your dancing shoes!”

Twilight Drive-In
Metro Vancouver’s Only Drive-in Theatre
Thu., Aug. 5, 9:10 p.m.
Twilight Drive-In Theatre – 3350 260 Street, Fraser Hwy, Langley Twp, BC
They say: “Snake Eyes: G.I. Joe Origins stars Henry Golding as Snake Eyes, a tenacious loner who is welcomed into an ancient Japanese clan called the Arashikage after saving the life of their heir apparent…”
For more information and movies in August see http://twilightdrivein.net

Langley Eats Local
See Website
They say: This annual event celebrates the abundance of our region with a fantastic lineup of local vendors and activities for the whole family. Explore the diversity of what is produced in Langley and nearby, from vegetables to breads, cheeses, berries, wines and more. Join us to celebrate our local farmers and producers who care for this delicious array of ingredients, all the way from their field to your plate.

Summerset Festival
Fri., Aug. 27 – Sun., Aug. 29
Fort Langley National Historic Site of Canada 23433 Mavis Ave, Langley, BC
See Website
They say: “Summerset Music & Arts Festival takes place inside the palisades of the Fort Langley National Historic Site on the majestic Fraser River, offering a venue with unsurpassed beauty and history. A former fur trading post of the Hudson’s Bay Company and the “Birthplace of British Columbia”, guests can tour the historic site, enjoying world-class music & art and mouth-watering local food and beverages.

“Summerset has set up a variety of activities throughout the festival including cornhole, a kid’s play centre, food trucks, vendors, and a dedicated merch area. Check out everything Summerset has to offer August 27 – 29th!”

Live Music Night with Cambree Lovesy
Fri., Aug. 27, 6:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Fraser Valley Cider Company – 22128 16 Ave, Langley, BC
For more events at the Fraser Valley Cider Company see their website
They say: “The five foot firecracker from Abbotsford, B.C. brings an infectious energy with her onto every stage…”
Photo: @cambreelovesyofficial Please see foonote below

Surrey, BC

Summer POP! — Devon More Music
Fri., Aug. 6, 7:00 p.m. – Sun., Aug. 8, 4:30 p.m.
Darts Hill Garden Park – 16th Avenue and 170th Street, Surrey, BC
See Website
They say: “Bring your own bubble to Dart Hills Garden Park for a POP! Summer Stroll. Take in one of many micro-performances – including a one-woman symphony, built from scratch by Devon – before you stroll your way to the grand finale. 4 chances to stroll by Friday, August 6th – Sunday, August 8th”

Vineyard Lunch with wine & Rock n’ Roll live music
Sun., Aug. 15, 12:00 – 4:30 p.m.
Vinoscenti Vineyards – 15560 Colebrook Rd, Surrey, BC
See EVENTBRITE
They say: “A long awaited vineyard lunch and music event will be the highlight of this summer. Served in the vineyard & buffet style, the lunch includes multi course items such as roast beef, salmon filet, vegetables, fresh seasonal fruits, and a glass of wine, from 12 noon to 2 pm. Live Rock n’ Roll music begins from 2:15 to 4:30 pm with a break from 3:15 to 3:45 pm.”

“YARD” Biggest Jamaican African fusion party of the summer
Sun., Aug. 22, 4:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Location: 13565 105 Ave, Surrey, BC
Get Tickets
They say: “A VIP experience with premium drinks 3 top-class Dj at the turn get your drip & come get lit with us.”

Alfresco Festival 2021
Fri., Aug. 27, 11:00 a.m. – Sun., Aug. 29, 4:00 p.m.
Colebrook Park – 14311 Colebrook Rd, Surrey, BC
See Website
They say… “It’s in the trees and it’s coming – oh it’s coming. Yes, our favourite foray onto the foliage is finally returning and we can’t wait to join our Alfresco family for a three day wiggle in the woods. And with the first announcement of artists wetting our disco whistle just right – how could Daniel Avery, Daniele Baldelli, Lowlife, Crazy P Soundsystem, Sophie Lloyd, Jonjo Jury, Jaye Ward, Tech Support and the many more incoming not? – we’ve got our plans made, our disco bags packed and our festival head ready. Finally. See you in the trees! Alfresco Festival Friday 27th- Sunday 29th August 2021 Colebrook Park, Tunbridge Wells.”

FOOTNOTES
Photos – Please contact us for credit or removal rod@impactintl.net

abbotsford July 21, 2021

Your Guide to Outdoor Public Pools in the Fraser Valley

With the incredible weather and record-breaking temperatures have you been looking for outdoor places to cool off and go for a swim? Fortunately, some Fraser Valley public pools have been returning to pre-COVID-19 regulations and are open for swimming. Here’s an update from The City of Surrey for example: “As of Saturday, July 17th, we will returning to a pre-COVID system for public swims. This means there will be no swim reservations and you will be able to attend the facility and wait in line to swim.” Unfortunately, as you can see below, there are outdoor pool closures because of COVID-19 in other Fraser Valley Municipalities.

If you are looking for a public pool near you in Surrey, Langley, Maple Ridge, Pitt Meadows, Chilliwack, or Abbotsford, look no further because we have a list for you below. Happy swimming!

Abbotsford

Centennial Outdoor Pool is closed for 2021. The good news is that the pool is being renovated and will be better than ever for next year.

Chilliwack

Rotary Pool
46245 Reece Ave, Chilliwack, BC V2P 3A9

Langley/Aldergove

Al Anderson Memorial Pool
Location: 4949 207 St, Langley, BC V3A 1N4

Fort Langley Outdoor Pool
Location: 23055 St. Andrews Street, Fort Langley, BC
July 20, 2021 – Closed

Otter Co-op Outdoor Experience Water Park
Location: 27032 Fraser Hwy, Aldergrove, BC V4W 3P6

Maple Ridge

Hammond Outdoor Pool
20601 Westfield Avenue, Maple Ridge

Pitt Meadows

Harris Road Outdoor Pool is closed for 2021. The Spray Park is open.
12460 Harris Rd, Pitt Meadows, BC V3Y 2J5

Surrey

For hours and more information see Tide’s Out Swimming. This is the website for the City of Surrey outdoor pools. For swimming lessons and outdoor swimming in Surrey, check out the following outdoor pools:

Bear Creek
Location: 13820 – 88 Avenue Surrey, BC V3W 3L1

Greenaway Outdoor Pool
Location: 17901 – 60 Avenue Surrey, BC V3S 6W4

Port Kells Outdoor Pool
Location: 19340 – 88 Avenue Surrey, BC V4N 5T2

Sunnyside Outdoor Pool
Location: 15455 – 26 Avenue Surrey, BC

Hjorth Road Outdoor Pool
Location: 10277 – 148 Street Surrey, BC V3R 6S4

Kwantlen Outdoor Pool
Location: 13035 – 104 Avenue Surrey, BC V3T 1T8

See last article: Home Decor: Timeless Trends to Transform Any Space

Buying or selling a home? Contact Mike

FOOTNOTES
*Please check with each location for up to date schedules
All photos from Unsplash

Featured July 7, 2021

Home Decor: Timeless Trends to Transform Any Space

Looking to refresh your space? These design tips have the power to totally transform any room, and they’re easy to implement!

Introduce Greenery

Plants bring new life to empty corners and shelves, while naturally improving air quality. Succulents, snake plants, and Heartleaf Philodendrons can thrive indoors with little maintenance.

DESIGN TIP
No green thumb? No problem. Fake fiddle-leaf fig trees are a popular solution for filling larger spaces, while smaller potted plants fit nicely on desks, end tables, and wall shelves.

Incorporate Accent Pieces

Place accent pieces like candles, vases, or bowls on coffee tables, nightstands, and dresser tops to add a fresh new element to your space.

DESIGN TIP
Give your accents depth by using different sizes and shapes in your display. For example, try pairing a tall plant next to a small bowl or vase.

Evaluate Artwork

The right wall décor can tie together separate elements of a room’s design, and in some cases, give the illusion of more space.

DESIGN TIP
Can’t pick just one favourite piece? Combine framed artwork, prints, and personal photos and create a gallery wall. Try out different frames to mix it up!

Hang a Mirror

If you want to upgrade your space without a full renovation, try hanging a mirror — it will help any room feel more open and spacious.

DESIGN TIP
Brighten up your space by positioning your mirror across from or close to a window to bounce natural light.

Enhance Lighting

Typically, warm light is best for winding down in the evenings, while cool, bright light keeps you energized during the day. Identify your lighting preferences and get the bulbs to match.

DESIGN TIP
Place multiple light sources evenly around the room to help it feel more inviting, especially if natural light is scarce.

Take care,

Mike Wilson
Royal LePage Northstar Realty
604-533-3491
mike@fvlifestyle.com

P.S. Want more ways to improve home decor? Call me for a referral to a trusted home decorator or stager.

Read our latest article Let’s Go Do Something in Abbotsford! here

FOOTNOTES

Plant photo by Minh Pham on Unsplash
Accent piece photo by Angela Bailey on Unsplash
Mirror photo by Spacejoy on Unsplash
Lights photo by Federica Giusti on Unsplash
© 2021 Buffini & Company. All Rights Reserved. Used by Permission. RMMK JULY C.

Download a pdf of this article RMMK_July_MF_C Download

abbotsford June 30, 2021

Let’s Go Do Something in Abbotsford!

(Abbotsford, BC) Tourism Abbotsford celebrates BC’s Restart Plan with a tiered campaign starting with Let’s Go Do Something, which launched on June 17th. Everyone from across BC is invited to experience Abbotsford’s ever-changing handmade and homegrown experiences where farm meets table, spirit meets nature, and travelers meet our cultivated city. Suggested itineraries are themed by outdoor adventures, farm excursions, seasonal sips at wineries, cideries, and breweries, boutique shopping and local eats, and arts culture.

Sun & Soil Concert Series Returns

Starting on July 23, presented again by the Abbotsford Tech District, Tourism Abbotsford’s Sun & Soil Concert Series returns for its second year, showcasing a diverse mix of genres and local musicians. Various locations are featured select Friday evenings throughout the summer.
• Date: Friday, July 23rd from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Location: At Campbell’s Gold Honey Farm & Meadery, with orchard views

Musical Artist: Nelson Padilla
• Date: Friday, August 6 from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Location: the Eco Dairy with views of Mt. Baker

Musical Artist: K.C. Roces
• Date: Friday, August 13th from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Location: Maan Farms with views of Mt. Baker

Musical Artist: Chelsea Amber
• Date: Friday, August 20th from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Location: Mt. Lehman Winery with views of the vineyard

Musical Artist: Ryan McAllister
• Date: : Friday, August 27th from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Location: Ripples Winery and New Wave Distilling, amidst the gardens
Musical Artist: Kyler Pierce

“It’s been a difficult year for our tourism and hospitality businesses. We are thrilled to see travel begin to re-open and are tremendously excited to see Abbotsford come back to life this summer with events and things to do throughout the community. Let’s Go Do Something encourages people to come out and have fun again, to explore our nature trails, cycling routes, wineries, breweries, restaurants, shops, and farms. Sun & Soil unites farm-fresh food, diverse music, and beautiful country views. With vaccination rates increasing and life slowly returning to a post-pandemic state, we are pleased to welcome people back to our community,” says Craig Nichols, Executive Director of Tourism Abbotsford.

Although gathering sizes for outdoor events have been greatly increased as of July 1st, attendance for each concert will be limited to under 70 people to maintain an intimate experience. Tickets are $65/person, sold in packages for two or four people, and include local wine, beer, or cider, and charcuterie and picnic boxes with ingredients sourced from local farms. Concert attendees are invited to bring a picnic blanket but chairs will also be provided.

Abbotsford International Airshow

From August 6-8th, the Abbotsford International Airshow is returning with a Skydrive theme where attendees may remain in their vehicles or set up lawn chairs. The skies will be active for 3.5 hours per day with evening fireworks planned on August 6th and 7th and daytime performances on August 7th and 8th, I Closing the season, Tourism Abbotsford announces a Taste of Abby running from September 17th to September 25th. Plans include launching with a food and entertainment night festival and ending with a long table dinner. Details will be announced throughout the summer.

To learn more about Let’s Go Do Something, visit www.tourismabbotsford.ca/lets-go-do-something/

To purchase Sun and Soil tickets, visit www.tourismabbotsford.ca/store
Tickets are available as of Friday, July 9th.

To learn more about Skydrive, visit www.abbotsfordairshow.com/faq/

FOOTNOTES
Photos: Robyn Bessenger Photography. Used with permission
Article written and provided by Summer Dhillon, summer@slapcommunications.com, 604.614.4609

COMMUNITY June 23, 2021

Best Fraser Valley Summer Picnic Ideas for 2021

Summer is officially upon us, with temperatures reaching up to the 30-degree range. And nothing accompanies good weather like a picnic. Today we’ll be taking a look at the best events and catering in the Fraser Valley this year, plus 3 great picnic spots. Read our last article about the 10 best picnic spots in the Fraser Valley here. Let us help you plan the perfect picnic outing.

Events & Catering

Dirty Apron Picnic for Two

Dirty Apron has curated the perfect picnic basket, complete with two sandwiches, two salads, two cookies, and two drinks, for you and that special someone to enjoy a nice day (or evening) together. They also offer a Gourmet upgrade, coming with local cheese, crackers, and fruit. Visit dirty apron.com to pick yours up today in preparation for a lovely outing.

Dirty Apron on Instagram
Dirty Apron Website
Photo: 📸 @kevinclarkstudios @figure1publishing

Olive & Thorn

A fine event curator, Olive & Thorn specializes in event decor and design for not only picnics but parties, proposals, and plenty more. Check out their Instagram (@oliveandthornevents) to find out more.

We actually ran into Olive & Thorn on Mother’s Day at Elgin Heritage Park and saw firsthand what they can do. They had a beautiful setup and what looked like delicious food.

Photo: 📸 @oliveandthorneven

Haven Events

Another event curator, Haven Events is a go-to if you’re looking to have a lovely setup complete with decor. They’re also an Instagram-based company (@haveneventsltd), showcasing their great work. And you won’t be disappointed.

Photography: 📸 @diamondsedgephotography
Charcuterie: @indulgedbyher
Floral Arrangement: @thebundlesstudio

Pick Up Picnics

Here’s a neat one. Stop by Downtown Langley to check out the participating restaurants of this year’s Pick Up Picnic. Meals are complete with your food and drink order, plus a special picnic package. Participating restaurants include Brogan’s Diner, Dal’s Poke, Egg BomB, Hot & Toasty Cafe, and more.

Poster Design – @renecreative

Top 3 Picnic Spots of 2021

Chilliwack Lake

There’s a ton of lake-side spots down Chilliwack lake road, and all make for a nice picnic location. Sit down by the clear water with your family or even just that one special person and enjoy a fun day of outdoor bonding, featuring blue shiny water.

Photo: 📸 @rempelstilskin

Boundary Bay

Bordering between the United States and Canada, Boundary Bay is sure to provide you with the perfect beach for a beach picnic. Relax by the ocean and look out on Washington as you sip your wine, or even just sparkling water (whatever your preference is). But you’re sure to have a good time here.

Photo: 📸 @sandkeet604

Alouette Lake

Located in Golden Ears Provincial Park, Alouette lake is the perfect spot whether you want to go for a weekend trip or even just a day trip. A great waterfront location as well as hiking and camping spot, there’s something for everyone at Alouette Lake.

Photo: 📸 @bcvettech

So that’s it for our top spots, events, and catering. Now get out and enjoy this nice weather we’re having.

Have your own picnic catering and event ideas? Want to share your favorite picnic spots? Let us know in the comments below.

Credits:
Written by Josh Leowen
Main photo 📸 @haveneventsltd
Please message @rjanz for credit or removal

COMMUNITY June 16, 2021

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY BE PREPARED

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY BE PREPARED*

It’s almost impossible to predict when a crisis may occur, but there are a few basic measures you can take to be prepared for unexpected weather or life events. And not to be a downer, but studies have shown that Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley will inevitably experience a major earthquake and tsunamis, so once and a while it’s worth considering in case of an emergency: are you prepared?

Here are several things to do to help be prepared…

KNOW YOUR EVACUATION ROUTES
These may change depending on the situation, so you’ll want an idea of the different scenarios you may face. Identify your area’s major evacuation centres.

SELECT YOUR MEETING PLACES
Set one in the neighbourhood, one in town, and one out-of-town. That way, your family can regroup if something pops up when you’re not together.

STAY CONNECTED
Sign up for emergency alerts from your local municipalities. Police Facebook and Twitter pages are great sources for real-time updates during emergencies.

ASSIGN ROLES
Discuss what each family member will handle in an emergency. For example, mom turns off the electricity and water, dad gets the important documents, kids get the pets, etc.

CONSIDER A GENERATOR
Generators will help you keep the lights on should you lose power. Some are powered by gas, others by rechargeable battery or solar.

STOCK UP
See what already you have. If the electricity goes, use the food in the fridge first before consuming nonperishables. Have at least three days’ worth of bottled water ready.

COLLECT IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS
Store physical documents like birth certificates, financial information, and family records in a fireproof or waterproof box and take it with you in an evacuation.

KEEPING YOUR PETS SAFE DURING AN EMERGENCY
If you’ve got a four-legged friend or another pet in your family, make a plan for them too! here are some items to include in your pet’s emergency kit:

3-7 days worth of food and water
Pet’s documents – Medical records and current photos (in case of separation)
Extra litter/ disposable trays
Cage liners
Extra collar, harness or leash
Travel carrier
Blankets
Garbage bags

ACCESS AN ANIMAL EMERGENCY KIT FROM HUMANE CANADA.
Includes a window sticker so rescuers know if your pet is still in the home during a rescue.

GOING TO AN EVACUATION SHELTER? LOOK FOR ONE THAT ALLOWS PETS SO YOU’RE NOT TURNED AWAY.

Download pdf – CLICK HERE

Main Photo by Spencer Davis on Unsplash

abbotsford May 26, 2021

Fraser Valley Events for June 2021

The last month has brought with it increasingly warmer and nicer weather, and with better weather comes more events. Of course, while we are still kind of in the middle of a pandemic, it’s always good to keep your distance. But that shouldn’t hinder you from having a fun family outing.

Today we’ll be looking at a few more upcoming events in the Fraser Valley area, specifically for June.

June 6, 13, & 20 – Downtown Chilliwack Community Market

To start us off, we have the Downtown Chilliwack Community Market. A great place to find and connect with new businesses and products you might really enjoy, the DCCM is open from 10 am to 2 pm and a great place for locally grown, crafted, and brewed products. Maybe you just need some fresh carrots, well head on over to Cultus Lake after and it could be a trip worthwhile. If you’re okay with the commute, the Chilliwack Community Market could provide you with not only handmade items and fresh produce but also meaningful community interactions. You can read more about the market here: dccm.ca

June 6 – Ride for Doug 2021 (Langley)

Ride for Doug, a motorcycle charity riding against Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, is on its 15th year this June. Starting at Langley’s Colossus Theatre and ending at the UFV campus in Abbotsford, you can either pick up tickets and ride in support or watch the live stream and support from home. If you feel like a midsummer cruise, this ones for you. Or maybe you just want to show your support, but don’t like objects with two wheels and an engine. That’s totally okay, you can still donate to their cause and even keep up with the ride online.

Every Saturday in June – Fort Langley Village Farmers’ Market

At the Fort Langley Village Farmers’ Market, you can meet our local BC farmers, BC Prepared food vendors, BC Craft beer, spirits, and wine vintners, and our “Best of BC” Artisans.

When: Every Saturday 9:00 am – 3:00 pm. April 10th – December 18th, 2021

Where: Fort Langley Village Farmers’ Market is located at 9025 Glover Road, Fort Langley B.C. (site of St. Andrew’s Historic Chapel)

June 18 – Golf for Kids’ Sake Tournament & Silent Auction (Abbotsford)

That brings us to another neat gathering happening this month. The Big Brothers Big Sisters Foundation is hosting a golf fundraiser at Ledgeview Golf and Country Club, which would be perfect for the golfers of the family. With tickets starting at $250, your package includes lunch, dinner, a cart rental, and 18 holes, and you can be assured that your donation is going towards a good cause. You can find out more at the Big Brothers Big Sisters website.

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Those are just a few of the interesting events to come this year, hopefully, you found one worth checking out. Remember to follow all COVID-19 safety precautions, to protect you and your family as well as the community. Do you have your own event suggestions? Let us know in the comments below.

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Written by Josh Loewen

Photo Credits:
Downtown Chilliwack Community Market – https://www.instagram.com/ChilliwackMarket
Ride for Doug – ridefordoug.com
Fort Langley Village Farmers’ Market – fortlangleyvillagefarmersmarket.org
Golf for Kid’s Sake – fraservalley.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca/event/golf-for-kids-sake-2021

COMMUNITY August 5, 2020

10 Best Picnic Spots in the Fraser Valley

One of my favourite things to do when the weather is nice is pack up a cooler of good food and drinks, load up my kids and find somewhere to head for a day full of sunshine & exploring. I’ve put together a list of ten amazing picnic spots for you to check out this summer.