Special Features - Discover Community Guide 2013

Agassiz Harrison Observer Friday, May 31, 2013 9

discover official community guide

harrison hot springs, agassiz & surrounding areas

Published by the award-winning newspaper

The Agassiz â?– Harrison

recreation

arts

services

culture

lifestyle

10 Agassiz Harrison Observer Friday, May 31, 2013

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harrison hot springs agassiz and surrounding areas

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Daffodils, bright pink blossoms and a snow-peaked Mt. Cheam, on a clear spring day in Agassiz.

JESSICA PETERS / OBSERVER

There`s no place like home Welcome to your official community guide for Agassiz and Harrison Hot Springs.

The region truly is a strong community of small neighbourhoods, close friendships and big dreams.

That’s why we all love living and working here. From the soothing shores of the lake to the snow-capped mountaintops all around us, the area’s beauty is hard to ignore.

The small town charms are all around us, too. With pastoral settings and the Best Fall Fair around to mom-and-pop shops you know and trust, there seems little reason to ever leave!

But changes are all around us, too. The area is ever-changing, with new businesses and services starting up all the time.

We’ve published this guide to help you navigate the community and rediscover your own backyard. We also wanted to highlight the hidden gems you may be missing, and pay homage to the internationally-acclaimed highlights that draw in tourists year after year.

Besides being a mecca for tourists, there is a vibrant business community here, growing in earnest thanks to our hardworking Chamber of Commerce. Businesses are blossoming and the community is stronger than ever.

There truly is, no place like home.

JESSICA PETERS

Jessica Peters Editor - The Observer

R O T A V O N E R & THE

L A I C R E M M CO L A I T N E D I S E R ete Home

Looking for a great place to stay, or info on hiking, biking & paddling in the Harrison Hot Springs region.

Contact us at: 604.796.5581 info@tourismharrison.com www.tourismharrison.com @harrisontourism tourism harrison tourism harrison

• Co m p l at i o n s Re n ov ss & a l g r e b • Fi ing k c e D d Wo o oring o l F e t a • Lamin ng • Fr a m i ing • Fi n i s h Roofs l a t e M • ons • Additi

KELLY AT 604.819.1936 • KJLACROIX62@HOTMAIL.COM

Agassiz Harrison Observer Friday, May 31, 2013 11

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harrison hot springs agassiz and surrounding areas

Keeping small business connected Agassiz and Harrison’s economy is growing at a steady pace, thanks to numerous organizations devoted to helping business thrive. Connect with these groups and help grow your business, big or small.

H-A CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Serving the needs of the business community in Agassiz and Harrison Hot Springs. For information, email info@harrison.ca.

DISTRICT OF KENT District staff can help with numerous issues that may arise in your home, or business. From licensing and other business services, to recreational programming and services. Visit them online at www.district.kent.bc.ca or phone 604-796-2235.

VILLAGE OF HARRISON The Village can address most of your home or business needs in Harrison Hot Springs, and is also a force behind many of the events around town. For more information, visit www.harrisonhotsprings.ca or phone 604-796-2171.

SEABIRD ISLAND BAND BUSINESS SERVICES Seabird Island is a small band on the cutting

edge of economic development. They work collaboratively with many businesses and individuals to continue to support growth in the area. To learn more about developments at Seabird, visit www.seabirdisland.ca or phone 604-796-2177.

KENT HARRISON FOUNDATION A non-profit organization that has been providing local grants and bursaries since 1998. For more information on how your business can partner with the foundation to create a lasting legacy, visit kentharrisonfoundation.com or email info@ kentharrisonfoundation.com.

COMMUNITY FUTURES DEVELOPMENT NORTH FRASER Business & community development services.

Business loans, information and Management Training. Assistance to new & expanding businesses. www.northfraser.org.

WORK BC SERVICES CENTRE Employment and support service office offering client-centred, integrated services and supports that are responsive, inclusive and accessible. 7086 Pioneer Avenue. 604-796-0266.

Premier Christy Clark visited Agassiz several times during a byelection in 2012, stopping by several businesses throughout Agassiz during her stay.

JESSICA PETERS / OBSERVER

Local Chamber is the `voice of business` The Harrison-Agassiz Chamber represents the business interests of two dynamic and different communities: Harrison Hot Springs & the District of Kent. Harrison Hot Springs, a small village in the big outdoors has been a premier resort destination for over a century and offers access to the largest fresh water lake in South Western BC.

The District of Kent is the hub for agricultural activity in the eastern Fraser Valley and is the “Corn Capital” of BC. As the “Voice of Business,” the Harrison-Agassiz Chamber of Commerce has been serving the needs of the business community in the Kent District and Harrison Hot Springs for more than 25 years. They are a non-profit,

non-government organization with over 100 members comprising businesses, professionals & associations who have joined together for the purpose of promoting the civic, commercial & Tourist interests of our community.

The latest, greatest plan has been to host more casual social events in-

stead of the more structured Chamber meetings where members or new businesses can come & network, share concepts in a more relaxed, constructive setting.

Have any questions about the Harrison-Agassiz Chamber of Commerce?

Interested in their next event? Email them at info@harrison.ca.

NEW OWNERS

SAME DELICIOUS MENU We welcome you to join us for a meal soon!

Purchase four dinner entrées and receive a complimentary dessert!

ONE DESSERT COUPON PER TABLE OF FOUR

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12 Agassiz Harrison Observer Friday, May 31, 2013

There is new taste and colour to the Oasis Coffee and Bistro in downtown Agassiz.

There is an array of specialty coffees and smoothies, and the new menu includes savouries like a curried pear with ham panini, an egg scramble paired with a black bean quesadilla and salsa, and choices that are gluten-free and even vegan. The peanut butter fudge cookies, apple date squares, apple pecan ginger squares, and fruit pies are all gluten-free, and the power bars are as addictive as the coffee! You can smell them baking and you can taste the goodness.

The new owners moved from one oasis to another – they were quite self-sufficient for ten years on a homestead with boat access only: 10,000 square feet of vegetable garden and 60 fruit trees! They canned soups, sauces, fruits and chutneys. They collected elk droppings and seaweed as fertilizer, and they milled all the joists, beams and smaller lumber for the rebuilding of the old family home. Up for new adventure, they were looking for a building supply on the east coast when they bought the coffeehouse in Agassiz instead. Webster’s defines oasis as: ‘providing refuge, relief, or pleasant contrast’.

#1-7010 Pioneer Avenue, Agassiz 604.796.8800

DropYouin will be back.

Agassiz Harrison Observer Friday, May 31, 2013 13

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Take country life one day at a time

harrison hot springs agassiz and surrounding areas

We think each day should be lived to its fullest potential. Read on, and see how to make the most of your leisure time, right in your own backyard.

A DAY FOR READING Have a free afternoon? Try getting lost in the stacks.

The Agassiz Library has a full schedule of activities throughout the year, including a summer reading club for adults and children, Storytime in the Park and special presenters. As part of the Fraser Valley

A bee explores a California poppy in a local garden.

Regional Library system, library members enjoy borrowing power from collections throughout the Valley.

Grab a book, an audiotape, a few magazines or even a movie, and hunker down to enjoy a little free entertainment.7140 Cheam Avenue. www.fvrl.bc.ca.

A DAY FOR SHOPPING Looking for just the right gift? Why not make a day of it, and head to the lake.

Harrison Village Mall is full of gift choices, souvenirs and every day essentials. Need something for your day at the beach?

You’ll want to stop at the merchants along Agassiz’s Pioneer Avenue, or load up on picnic foods at one of our supermarkets or produce stands.

And don’t forget to take a stroll along Esplanade in Harrison Hot Springs, parallel to the beach front. Hopping in and out of the sunshine has never been so fun!

A DAY IN THE PARK Thursdays just got better in Agassiz.

Enjoy the Pioneer Park Twilight Concert Series on select nights, featuring a variety of musical acts. All performances begin at 6:30 p.m. and run until 8 p.m., and are free thanks to the support of sponsors and donations.

An army of tractors makes its way through town as part of the annual parade at the Agassiz Fall Fair last September.

In Harrison, take the kids to explore the new nautical-themed playground at the beach or take a stroll around the lagoon walk.

A DAY FOR THE DOGS Agassiz has gone unleashed — at least for the dogs. The riding ring beside the Fitness/Activity Centre is now a shared space for an off-leash dog park. For information, phone 604-796-2235.

A DAY ON THE BEACH Enjoy the new look of the lake, by spending some time at Harrison Lake Plaza. Kick off your shoes and work on your sand sculpting skills. Grab some gelato or just soak up the sun and marvel at the view.

Escape the crowds with a drive down Rockwell, along the lake’s east shoreline.

Check out the quieter beach fronts, or rest in the soothing spray of a waterfall.

Stay outdoors a little longer, with a camping trip to either Hicks Lake or Deer Lake,

both of which have their own picturesque views and trail systems.

A DAY ON THE FARM The Circle Farm Tour is a collective of farms around the Fraser Valley, and Agassiz and Harrison Mills play important roles.

From cheeses to herbs, cows to hazelnuts, there is something to learn and enjoy at each stop. Visit www.circlefarmtour. com.

And for one weekend, the roads are filled with bicycles, as the Slow Food Cycle Tour heads out to Agassiz.

Cyclists check in, grab a map, and make their way to locations around the District of Kent that grow, bake and cook different local food products, from cranberries to salmon to handmade cheeses.

It’s a delicious way to learn about sustainability and local farming practices.

This year’s Agassiz tour is on July 27.

For more information, visit. www.slowfoodvancouver.com.

Morgan’s Bistro on the lake Harrison Hot Springs

Join us us on on our Join our lakefront lakefront patio patio and andenjoy enjoyHarrison’s Harrison’sfinest finestgourmet gourmetcomfort comfort

160 160Esplanade EsplanadeAve. Ave. 604.491.1696 604.491.1696

Open daily daily for forlunch lunchand anddinner. dinner. *Ask about about our our catering, catering, group group and andevent eventplanning planningservices. services. *Ask *We specialize specialize in inweddings, weddings, birthdays birthdays and andcorporate corporateparties. parties. *We

morgansbistro.com morgansbistro.com facebook.com/morgans.cellar facebook.com/morgans.cellar

14 Agassiz Harrison Observer Friday, May 31, 2013

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harrison hot springs agassiz and surrounding areas

Celebrating our community

All the local choirs gather at Christmas for a massive community concert each year. All proceeds go toward local community needs.

A DAY OF REJUVENATION Not every day is meant to be lived in the fast lane.

So, relax and take it easy.

Enjoy one of the area’s several spas or beauty services, for a pedicure, haircut or massage treatment.

A DAY WITH THE FAMILY Nothing beats the laughter of children, and you’ll hear plenty of that around these parts. Whether you’re enjoying waterslides, a farm tour, Children’s Day at the Festival, fireworks on Canada Day, all the sights and sounds of the Agassiz Fall Fair or trekking around our many trails, it’s sure to be time well spent with the ones you love.

A DAY IN HISTORY The oldest wooden railroad station still in existence in B.C. also houses the Agassiz-Harrison Museum where you can see period clothing, artifacts and photos of pioneer life, hop on board an old train car, and view pioneering farming implements. Admission is free and the museum is open from May to September. 7011 Pioneer Ave. 604-796-3545.

A DAY FOR WORSHIP There are several places of worship throughout the region, with many denominations represented, including Anglican, Christian, Catholic, Mennonite, Jehovah’s Witness and the United Church. All Saints Anglican Church is one of the oldest churches in the province, and worth a visit to take in the beautiful stained glass windows.

A DAY TO CELEBRATE The Christmas season doesn’t pass quietly around here.

Agassiz is a stop for the CPR Holiday Train, which winds its way through six provinces and seven states near Christmastime, collecting for food banks along its journey.

All the food and money collected here in Agassiz goes directly to the Agassiz Community Services food bank. So this year, bundle up, get down to the tracks and spread the joy.

Miss Emily belts it out on the CP Holiday Train stage, backed up by country band Doc Walker. Entertainment options abound in Agassiz and Harrison, and so do creative outlets to indulge your own artistic side.

JESSICA PETERS / OBSERVER

Discover your artistic side

Does your creative side need a little nurturing?

AGASSIZ MONDAY PAINTERS Meet fellow artists monthly, in the bright and This region can be an oasis of peaceful relaxation spacious Agassiz United Church hall. To learn more, — just the right environment for artists seeking drop by the church on Monday afternoons. solitude and inspiration. So it’s no surprise that art RUBY CREEK ART GALLERY galleries and exhibitions are growing in popularity.

An abundance of First Nation art work and hisMany of the galleries and organizations listed betory. Located at 58611 Lougheed Highway Agassiz, low also offer classes and demonstrations through BC. 604-796-0740 or online at www.rubycreekartthe year. Thumb through this listing the next time gallery.com. your creativity needs a boost.

HARRISON FESTIVAL SOCIETY RANGER STATION ART GALLERY Keeping the art vibe alive for decades in HarriThis local art gallery situated on the shores of son Hot Springs, this group is responsible for year Harrison Lake features monthly shows by area artround concerts in Harrison Memorial Hall, and the ists. Operated by the Kent Harrison Arts Council, internationally-known Harrison Festival of the Arts at 98 Rockwell Drive in Harrison Hot Springs. 604every summer.

796-2723.Come in to meet your local pharmacy team Visit www.harrisonfestival.com to check current KENT HARRISON ARTS COUNCIL let us help you feel better all over. events, or phone 604-796-3664.

A not-for-profit arts and cultural organization HARRISON HOT SPRINGS MULTICULTURAL CHOIR serving the communities of the Village of Harrison ✓ Free blood ✓ Freeand blood pressure testing This active group sings regularly at many events.

Hot Springs, District of sugar Kent, testing Seabird Island For more information, phone 796-2084.

Sts’ailes. kentharrisonartscouncil.com/khac. ✓ Free Cholesterol testing

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Come in to meet your local pharmacy team and let us help you feel better all over.

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Pharmacy Services: ✔ Online and mobile prescription refills

7046 Pioneer Avenue Agassiz help better al Come in to meet your local pharmacy team you and let feel us Phone: 604-491-1070 • www.remedys.ca ✔ Free prescription transfer and delivery ✔ Free comprehensive medication review

Pharmacy Services:

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✔ Custom compounding of capsules, suppositories, creams, hormonal preparations and veterinarian products

✔ Online and mobile prescription refills

✔ Health and wellness: Homeopathic, natural and herbal products, home health care products and orthopedic bracing and supports

✔ Free vaccination consultation and administration

Location

Sunday

9:00am - 7:00pm 9:00am - 6:00pm

Pioneer Ave

10:00am - 4:00pm 10:00am - 2:00pm

PUBLIC ART GALLERY

Laugheed

Agassiz, BC V0M 1A0

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Tel: 604-491-1070 Fax: 604-491-1071 Pioneer Ave

Cheam Ave

✔ Health and wellness: Homeopathic, Mohamed Hasanine, 9:00am - 6:00pm natural and herbal products, Pharmacist: BSc (Pharm), RPh Tuesday 9:00am - 6:00pm home health care products and 7046 Pioneer Avenue Wednesday 8:00am - 5:00pm Agassiz, BC V0M 1A0 orthopedic bracing and supports Thursday 9:00am - 7:00pm Tel: 604-491-1070 La

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Fax: 604-491-1071 Pioneer Ave

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Monday – Friday 10 – 4 Saturday – Sunday 1 – 5 604-796-2723 98 Rockwell Drive Harrison Hot Springs Operated by The Kent Harrison Arts Council | kentharrisonartscouncil.com

9:00am - 6:00pm

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7046 Avenue Agassiz Pharmacist: Mohamed Pioneer Hasanine, preparations and veterinarian products BSc (Pharm), RPh Phone: 604-491-1070 • www.remedys.ca 7046 Pioneer Avenue Hours Location Store Info

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• Books and more to lend to all BC residents • Used books for sale • Free public Internet • Local Newspapers

help you feel better all over.

✔ Free vaccination consultation and administration

Thursday 9:00am - 7:00pm General Store Museum • Orchard Playground Pioneer Ave

Friday 9:00am - 6:00pm Home-style Restaurant • Unique Gift Shop Saturday

10:00am - 4:00pm

Special Events • Campground Sunday 10:00am - 2:00pm Open April to October | www.kilby.ca 215 Kilby Road, Harrision Mills (604)796-9576

1 km off Scenic Hway 7 – Just minutes west of Agassiz

Laugheed

Hwy

Pioneer Ave Cheam Ave

Agassiz Harrison Observer Friday, May 31, 2013 15

Discover our folklore at Kilby Imagine a place where you could tiptoe back in time, learn some history, throw on some gumboots and get dirty.

You can have it all at Kilby Historic Site.

Here, you have the choice to be as quiet as a dormouse or to tromp around the yard with the many farm animals. The oldest building in the District of Kent is here, and so is the haunted Manchester House Hotel. Ask Kilby’s friendly staff and volunteers to show you around. You might be surprised at what you’ll learn about local folklore.

See the area as it once was, from farm implements and a fueling station to living quarters and the general store and post office. Recently, Kilby was delighted to receive government funding for restoration of the main building, to ensure the site can be enjoyed for many more years to come.

And the Agassiz Harrison Lions Club

generously donated $4,000 to the construction of a brand new play area which is now in place — and very popular among children of all ages.

The site has several special dates planned each year, inviting the public to share in something as simple as the change of seasons. You could camp at Kilby Park or pack a picnic lunch for the day.

Events this season will feature all the annual favourites, including some new offerings — Black Powder Day on Father’s Day, Dairy Day (July 6), the 10th Annual Car Show (July 13), a cultural festival (July 20), Pirate Day (Aug. 5), Storytelling Day (Aug. 17), the Kids Festival (Aug. 24), BC Legends Day (Sept. 21), a Halloween Party (Oct. 26 and 27), the Fraser Valley Bald Eagle Festival (Nov. 16 and 17) and Christmas celebrations (Dec. 7 and 8).

For more information on pricing, hours and directions, visit www.kilby. ca or phone 604-796-9576.

discover

Dining details Know your local options

Visiting Kilby means stepping back in time, with plenty of pioneering fun, historic folklore, stories, events and farm animals.

JESSICA PETERS / OBSERVER

Agriculture plants seed for prize winning fair Fields of green and gold are more than just a picturesque backdrop. It’s a sign that this area grows the sweetest corn you can find.

This year’s fair takes place September 13 and 14, and includes 4H displays, a midway, parade, entertainment and an exhibition.

DID YOU KNOW? • The fair is run by a non-profit association called the Agassiz Agricultural and Horticultural Association.

• The first Agassiz Fall Fair was held in 1901.

e k o n K Dan

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harrison hot springs agassiz and surrounding areas

• The annual fall fair and corn festival is always held on the second Saturday after Labour Day. • In 2007, the first Corn Queen was crowned after 58 years of Corn Kings.

• Each year an average of 10,000 people attend the Fall Fair and Corn Festival.

Hungry? We’ve got you covered.

Maybe you’re looking for a light snack or an ice cream treat? Try Harrison Hamburger, Beach Bites, Agassiz Deli, Winks Convenience, Chantilly Gelato or Muddy Waters/Baskin Robbins. Or why not grab a mouthwatering treats from Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory?

Planning an anniversary dinner or a family get-together? Try Jack’s Restaurant or Morgan’s.

If you need a cool refreshment on a hot day, stop in and say hi at the Old Settler Pub, Jimmy’s Pub & Grill, Kilby Restaurant or Sasquatch Pub. There are also culinary options from around the globe, with Silvano’s, Dragon Fried Rice House, Hungry Chef, Harrison Chinese, Hong’s Garden, Driftwood Diner, Sunyam Thai, the Swiss Gourmet, Black Forest Restaurant, Kitami and Yukiya Sushi.

Other ideas include Heritage Coffee House, Horn of Plenty, Magpie’s Bakery, Uptown Bakery, Chuck & Kitty’s Country Cafe, Green Star Cafe, Lakeview Restaurant, Subway Agassiz, the Laughing Goat, Park Ave. Restaurant, Tandoori Bites, A&W Agassiz, Village Pizzeria, Miss Margaret’s Cafe or Islands Bar & Grill in the Harrison Resort, Mariu Italian Deli, Petro’s Pizza, Domino’s Pizza, Oasis Coffee & Bistro, Rockamoles Diner and Kilby Restaurant.

Finally, all dressed up and nowhere to go? Try the River’s Edge at Sandpiper Golf Resort or kick up your heels at the Copper Room!

AGASSIZ PRODUCE

See our weekly ad in the Observer for our specials...

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16 Agassiz Harrison Observer Friday, May 31, 2013

NEW MEMBERS WELCOME

5 day pass - $550 (Monday to Friday, excluding Holidays) 7 day pass - $695 Fun Night Fridays! $29.95

Play 9 holes of golf, have your choice of chicken or steak dinner and a chance to win prizes! Starts at 4:30

Book your next meeting or tournament at Putter’s Lounge! Open 10am - 2pm daily Homemade Breakfast or Lunch Special: $5 with a green fee! Available Mon - Thurs

$20 Rainy Day Special: Play

18 holes for the price of 9! Available Mon - Thurs till the end of June as well as Sept & Oct

Lessons available with Head Pro Ron Brunelle call 604-819-0860 604-794-7788

•

53191 Bridal Falls, Chilliwack

www.bridalfallsgolf.com

Agassiz Harrison Observer Friday, May 31, 2013 17

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Find time to get active AQUANAUTS SWIM CLUB at 6660 Pioneer Avenue in Agassiz.

For swimmers of all ages. Practice at FERNY COOMBE POOL Ferny Coombe Pool with meets around the Home of the Agassiz Aquanauts, and the province. Contact Anne at 604-796-8458. community’s favourite cooling off zone in HARRISON YACHT CLUB the hot summer months. This outdoor pool This is a non-profit organization formed operates from May to August at 6820 Piofor the purposes of promoting safe boat- neer Avenue. 604-796-2451. ing on Harrison Lake. The HYC operates HARRISON HIKERS on land formerly occupied by the BC ForThere is a group for every style of hiker, est Service and provided by or walker, in this fun and the Village of Harrison Hot fit group. For more inforSprings. mation on local groups FRASER VALLEY DRAGON and popular hikes, phone BOAT CLUB Ken at 604-491-5540.

Established in 2002, this AGASSIZ SPEEDWAY society is committed to asThe hottest ticket in sisting and overseeing actown. Check out their tivities which will encourschedule online for race age, promote and develop times and special events, teams within the Fraser at www.agassizspeedValley for the sole purpose way.com, for events from A lone sailboat brightens up the spring to late fall. of dragon boating. Season lake on a hot summer night. runs from March to OcFORE! tober and they’re always Grab your clubs, book JESSICA PETERS / OBSERVER looking for new paddlers www. the day off, and head fraservalleydragonboatclub.com. for the greens. Each course has its own, KENT FITNESS/ ACTIVITY CENTRE unique appeal. Try out Harrison Resort This small but powerful centre is a hub of Golf Course, Sandpiper Golf Resort or Bridactivity all year long. Staff is always bring- al Falls Golf Course. ing in new ideas for classes, programs and WATER PLAY fitness incentives, and the centre is about Be a tourist for at least a day. Book a to grow with the addition of multipurpose parasailing or windsurfing lesson on Harrooms and a gymnasium. Visit them at rison Lake. Rent a banana boat, or a Sea6660 Pioneer Avenue, or phone Tel: 604- Doo and enjoy a little water action. Test 796-8891. out the inflatable playground on the lake CENTENNIAL PARK in front of the Harrison Resort.

Featuring a skate park, a playground, For more ideas on how to be a tourist in soccer pitches, baseball fields, and a walk- your own town, visit Tourism Harrison at ing trail, Centennial Park is a great place www.tourismharrison.com or phone 604for any family to stretch their legs. Located 796-5581.

harrison hot springs agassiz and surrounding areas

Majestic, age-old trees await discovery in the hills around us. If you go hiking, go with a friend or larger group, hike at the speed of the slowest member of the group, stay on the trails, don’t pick the flowers and keep pets on leash at all times.

Trails and trees await

It’s the journey, not the destination, that makes the hike. From the wild edges of the Fraser River to our pristine lake shores, there are plenty of stones left unturned and paths less travelled.

CHEAM LAKE WETLANDS This 93-hectare regional park will leave you with a better understanding of nature. Marsh, lake and uplands have been protected as a nature park and are home to many bird, animal and insect species, including deer. Cheam Wetlands is 6km south of Agassiz. Take the east exit off the roundabout, following Yale Road to Elgey Road.

BRIDAL FALLS The sixth highest waterfall in Canada.

Close to the Bridal Falls exit on Highway 1, this spot is complete with hiking trails right to the base of the falls, rolling grassy areas and a rain forest canopy.

PHOTO CREDIT: TJ WATT

CAMPBELL LAKE HIKING TRAIL This is a forest hike with good views of Harrison Lake at the top. For this hike, start at the base of the mountain, at Balsam Avenue and Hot Springs Road in Harrison Hot Springs, near the water reservoir. This is a nine km hike, with great views at the top.

MOUNT CHEAM TRAIL Mt. Cheam towers 7,000 ft above us every day. This hike requires a long drive, and a 4x4 vehicle with adequate clearance.

On Hwy 1, take the Vedder exit and drive through Sardis to Chilliwack Lake Road.

Drive until the road crosses Chilliwack River for the second time. Take the forest service road on your left, to Chipmunk Road. Follow Chipmunk Road to Mount Cheam Trailhead (about ½ hr) where the road ends at the tree line. This is where your two to three hour hike begins.

TELSTAR WINDOW SERVICE LTD. Telstar Window Service Ltd. Installation & Repair Window & Glass Replacement Custom Made Retractables Window Screens & Storm Doors 7663 Industrial Way, Agassiz

604-796-2025

18 Agassiz Harrison Observer Friday, May 31, 2013

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harrison hot springs agassiz and surrounding areas

Living among the eagles

Each year up to 1,200 bald eagles return to the Harrision-Chehalis delta as the salmon are running.

They travel from miles around to be here, and so do bird watchers.

These majestic raptors can be seen throughout Chilliwack, Agassiz and Harrison Mills in the winter months. And the Fraser Valley Bald Eagle Festival, held November 16 and 17 in 2013, includes several organized events in Harrison Mills designed to educate the public about raptors and their current plights.

People travel from all the world to take part in the enormously popular festival.

But we live close by, so knowing how to treat the eagles and their territory is essential to life in the Valley. The festival is a great time to brush up on that knowledge.

The raptors are drawn to this area by the millions of spawning salmon that travel up the Fraser River to tributaries such as the Harrison River. The estuary is also home to incredible wildlife such as trumpeter swans, ducks, seal, bear, coyote, deer and the great white sturgeon.

2

For thousands of years the First Nation Peoples have lived here in harmony with the land and water and today they work with the Fraser Valley Bald Eagle Festival to welcome visitors to teach and share the knowledge they have gained over the ages.

The festival weekend is also a chance for an annual bird count and volunteers count bald eagles, trumpeter swans and great blue herons.

If you head out this fall for a closer look at the bald eagles, there is wildlife viewing etiquette to follow.

1. Keep your distance: Use binoculars, spotting scopes and telephoto lens.

‘Getting closer’ causes the subject to move away.

2. Stay on trails: Straying off them not only damages or destroys sensitive habitat but infringes on the wildlife’s space.

3. Respect your fellow viewing enthusiasts: Once you’ve had a chance to have a good look, move on.

4. Walk slowly and speak quietly; nothing can spook wildlife faster than someone

An eagle balances on a log during the Fraser Valley Bald Eagle Festival. running towards it shouting “look at the …….”

5. Watch carefully – respect the ‘comfort zone’: all wildlife, including birds, have a ‘comfort zone’ which can vary dramatically depending on species, environment or previous experience. If you inadvertently infiltrate a comfort zone…stop and retreat until the subject relaxes.

6. Diagonal rather than direct: If you must move closer to a subject, try a diagonal approach, it is perceived as being less of

a threat.

7. Teach your children all of the above: NEVER allow your children to throw rocks at, chase, run up to or try to catch wildlife.

8. Pets: If you are attending an event where there are other viewers….leave your pet at home or in your vehicle.

9. Be Patient: Wildlife doesn’t appear on demand. When possible, pick a likely spot and sit quietly…..you’ll be surprised at what might show up! www.fraservalleybaldeaglefestival.ca.

local locations to choose from

Sunshine Valley RV Resort & Cabins Reservations: (604) 869-0066 | Hope, BC

Featuring 115 full service RV sites and 10 deluxe, fully furnished camping cabins. Conveniently located just 15 minutes east of Hope on Hwy. 3 in Sunshine Valley.

ACRE OF FR S PARKI EE NG

Camperland RV Resort Reservations: (604) 794-7361 | Rosedale, BC Featuring 260 full service RV sites, a heated outdoor pool and a full range of amenities. Conveniently located just 10 minutes east of Chilliwack on Hwy. 1 in Bridal Falls.

Come and enjoy the Fraser Valley's most accessible waterslides, with no stairs for you to worry about! Our family oriented facilities make for the perfect day of fun in the sun (and the water) for you, your family and your friends. Enjoy hours of entertainment and fun!

Public & membership camping with Western Canada’s premier RV camping network.

Located just off Hwy. 1 in Bridal Falls Call 604-794-7455 or visit us online at

Visit us online at www.htr.ca

www.bridalfallswaterpark.com

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freshMarket

Agassiz Farm

THURSDAYS FROM JUNE 6TH - SEPTEMBER 12TH 3-6 PM at the Agassiz Visitor Information Centre & Museum 7011 Pioneer Avenue

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Visit us online at www.htr.ca

Agassiz Harrison Observer Friday, May 31, 2013 19

Lending a hand: This is a busy little community, with plenty of clubs, services, teams and organizations who are there to help and to serve the community.

And whether you’re looking to volunteer, or need certain services, you’re sure to find what you need right here.

KENT HARRISON SEARCH AND RESCUE Serving this area since 1957, KHSAR is capable of ground, air and water searches, and works in conjunction with surrounding groups and other emergency personnel when in times of need. www2.khsar.com.

AGASSIZ HARRISON HISTORICAL SOCIETY AND MUSEUM In the heart of Agassiz’s Pioneer Park, housed in the oldest wooden railroad station still in existence in B.C. 7011 Pioneer Ave. 604796-3545.

FRASER HERITAGE SOCIETY Incorporated as a non-profit society in 1999, this society has a mandate to “provide support and enhancement projects in Cultural, Heritage and Arts organizations in the Fraser Valley and Fraser Canyon.” www.kilby.ca.

ROYAL CANADIAN AGASSIZ LEGION BRANCH 32 This local group runs a pub, helping fund services for local veterans, as well as organizing Remembrance Day each November. The Legion is always open to new members, and it is not a requirement to be a member or pastmember of the Forces to join. www.legion.ca.

AGASSIZ HARRISON LIONS CLUB A service group focused on giving back to the community. The Lions organize and support numerous activities and groups throughout the year. For more info, contact Joey Ellis at 604-9951.

Holly Tree Florist & Gifts

7220 Pioneer Ave., Agassiz, BC 604-796-2596

COMMUNITY SERVICES And if there is a service you need, the best place to start looking is Agassiz-Harrison Community Services.

They operate out of three locations in our community. The main office houses most services, including alcohol and drug services, family counseling and support, youth outreach, youth justice, the food bank, employment services and the very popular Youth Activity Centre.

They also operate The Thrift Store, where they accept donations and provide quality second hand items. All proceeds help fund AHCS’s many programs.

Finally, there is THE FAMILY PLACE. A popular hub for parents of babies and young children, the Family Place can be found at 7272 Morrow Road. This is the perfect place to meet your neighbours.

Some of Agassiz-Harrison’s other services and programs include: • Better Beginnings • Nobody’s Perfect parenting programs • Emergency Food Bank • Substance Misuse Services • Senior Peer Counselors • Friendly Phone Program • CALL Program (Community Adult Literacy & Learning) • English Conversation Circle • English as a Second Language Settlement Assistance Program (ESL-SAP) • Youth Inclusion Program • Agassiz-Harrison Employment Services For information on any of these programs, phone 604-796-2585, or visit www.agassizharrison.org.

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The Chamber of Commerce welcomes you to Agassiz &

beautiful Harrison Hot Springs Questions about businesses in the Harrison/Agassiz area?

Visit us at www.harrison.ca

Harrison Agassiz Chamber of Commerce

The Voice of Business for Harrison Hot Springs The District of Kent and surrounding area

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20 Agassiz Harrison Observer Friday, May 31, 2013

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