December 8, 2020

ABBOTSFORD

ACTION

IN

ECONOMIC OUTLOOK 2020 2020 has been a troubling year filled with fear and anxieties related to the COVID-19 pandemic, but it doesn’t mean the city stood still. Local businesses, organizations and institutions continue to forge ahead, knowing full well the future will be brighter. Abbotsford in Action 2020 takes a closer look at growth in the industrial, commercial and residential sectors of the city. The 11th annual edition also looks at how COVID-19 has affected local businesses, organizations and institutions and their efforts to persevere in the face of adversity.

B2 Thursday, December 3, 2020

Abbotsford News

www.abbynews.com

Better vision awaits you.

STILL WEARING GLASSES... WHY? It’s safe and predictable.

KNOW YOUR OPTIONS. ICL • Cataract • Lasik • PRK Reading Vision Correction “At 24hrs post op, I’ve got 20/15 correction with my new implantable contact lenses (ICL). This was unexpected and I’m overwhelmed by my results. VLEC uses measuring techniques unique in the field and their service was outstanding. I couldn’t be happier.”

- Kim Y.

We are following all COVID-19 Health Guidelines to keep you safe.

Contact us today!

Dr. John Blaylock

604 504 3937 valleylasereyecentre.com www.valleylasereyecentre.com

www.abbynews.com

Abbotsford News

Thursday, December 3, 2020 B3

Towards a brighter future

Message from Mayor Braun For Abbotsford City Council, looking ahead to 2021 has been very different than what looking ahead to 2020 was like just 12 short months ago. The health and the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to be felt across our province, our country, and our community, and if predictions are correct, we still have a long road ahead towards recovery.

facility, and an updated plan through our new Designated Community federally funded program to address homelessness and updating our Development Cost Charge (DCC) Bylaw to strategically plan and develop infrastructure and upgrades that our city needs most. We are also continuing to focus on establishing federal and provincial funding for our new water source project, as well as ensuring the improvements to Hwy #1 continue to move forward.

As our community continues to grow Over the past year, Council has been and evolve, Council’s goal is to keep you focused on ensuring our community informed and to receive your comments, remained positioned to be resilient ideas, and suggestions about City during this uncertain time. We completinitiatives.

Please join us online through ed an update to our Affordable Housing the @Abbotsford City Services App Strategy to meet the needs of a wide and through our engagement platform spectrum of Abbotsford residents, and letstalkabbotsford.ca. we adopted a Community Resilience This year saw many examples of the and Recovery Strategy to support our Henry Braun heart of our community – people stepeconomic development team in workping up to support one another to get us ing with our local business community. through these challenging times. I’m inspired by this.

We also established a 25-year Long Term Financial Plan to assist us with understanding the needs of our City Council remains committed to fostering an community as we continue to build into the Hub of inclusive, prosperous and sustainable Abbotsford for the Fraser Valley. future and current generations. It is a privilege for us Going forward, we are continuing to work on the various priorities that were laid out in Council’s Strategic Plan – the completion of a transit maintenance

Read about

Publisher

Industrial growth.......................4

Editor

Housing boom continues....... 6

Contributors

Hospital responds..................... 9 Courthouse opening............ 10

Carly Ferguson Ken Goudswaard Vikki Hopes Tyler Olsen Ben Lypka John Morrow

UFV adapts............................... 11 Ag sector digs deep.............. 12 Tourism takes a hit................. 17 Evolving downtown.............. 19 Airport hit hard....................... 20

to serve this diverse and vibrant community, and we look forward to continuing to support our community as we work towards a brighter future.

Sports scene............................ 24

FAmiLy owneD & operAteD since 1954

exciting cHAnges coming in 2021!

You are making a difference in our community.

Let’s keep it up!

From your friends at Tourism Abbotsford www.tourismabbotsford.ca

• Tune-ups

• Oil changes

• Full service gas pumps • The latest technology in diagnostic equipment • 5 automotive service bays • Air conditioning service • Full maintenance program • Provincial inspection facility • Brake service

and repair

• Vehicle washing and detailing • Free customer delivery and pick up

Located in Historic Downtown Abbotsford

Open Monday to Friday 8 am to 6 pm 33839 Essendene Avenue • 604-853-2352 • hubmotor.ca

B4 Thursday, December 3, 2020

Abbotsford News

www.abbynews.com

In the last year, the city has issued industrial building permits for 300,000 square feet of buildings. (John Morrow/Abbotsford News)

Stone for the road The rapid growth of the Lower Mainland has been, and continues to be, facilitated in part by another key industrial resource: gravel. Abbotsford provides much of the aggregate used by builders around the region, and its trucking companies and truck drivers are key players in getting that product to customers.

Industrial/commercial sector sees continued growth despite COVID-19 pandemic Deep entrepreneurial talent pool is city’s biggest strength, says mayor Abbotsford’s diversified industrial and commercial sectors continue to grow and lay the foundations for future success, even as the COVID-19 pandemic has challenged them as never before.

I think Abbotsford has been quite resilient and some businesses actually are prospering.”

Henry Braun

“I think our society, through COVID, wants to go back in some ways to smaller shops, where they know the owner, they know the produce, how is it raised, who raised it. They’re asking those types of questions where, for a long time, we just bought what was least expensive and didn’t care if it came from countries that had terrible environmental rules.”

The city’s incredibly diverse industrial sector has provided a strong base for Abbotsford to weather the fiscal challenges presented by the pandemic. And Abbotsford’s strong retail and commercial sectors have Meanwhile, the malls that remain at the shown resilience and optimism in the face of centre of much of Abbotsford’s shopping life 2020’s challenges. have also persevered, even as the city and its residents have laid the groundwork for “The economic implications of the pandemic we are dealing with have been wide- the evolution of those spaces into more-vispread and I’m not sure we’re going to fully brant places where people not only shop understand the long-term effects for years,” and work, but also live.

Mayor Henry Braun said.

But Braun says the city has managed to persevere.

But perhaps the biggest strength of Abbotsford is its people, Braun says.

facility, which is one of two Lockheed-Martin-authorized C-130 heavy maintenance centres in the world.

Other major companies include Marshall Aerospace, which has its head office at YXX; Chinook Helicopters, which offers flight training; and Conair Group, which builds and operates aircraft used to fight forest fires in British Columbia and elsewhere.

The pandemic has revealed the importance of supply chains – especially when it comes to food products and other essentials. Abbotsford is a transportation hub and home to truck drivers working for companies like Valley Carriers, Vedder Transport and Tri-Link Systems who facilitate the movement of goods around the Lower Mainland and Western Canada.

“Abbotsford has a very deep entrepreneur“We don’t think of them until, all of a sudial talent pool, ” he says. den, if the trucks can’t deliver the food. Then “I think Abbotsford has been quite resilient we start thinking of them,” Braun says. and some businesses actually are prosperRecent years have seen major companies ing.” build large new manufacturing facilities, The rapid growth of the Lower Mainland has with products destined for the construction been, and continues to be, facilitated in part Although many businesses have strugmarket. by another key industrial resource: gravel. Abgled, COVID-19 has reinforced the importance of the locally owned and operated About 1,000 people are directly employed botsford provides much of the aggregate used by builders around the region, and its trucking small enterprises that form the core of some at companies based at YXX, and the airport companies and truck drivers are key players in of Abbotsford’s fastest growing commercial remains home to some of the city’s biggest areas. Braun sees the focus on such retailers employers, with Cascade Aerospace employ- getting that product to customers. only increasing in the years to come.

ing hundreds of workers at its maintenance

Continued on B5

Abbotsford News

www.abbynews.com

Thursday, December 3, 2020 B5

$42 million worth of industrial permits issued

From B4 But the region’s success is also one of its major challenges. Abbotsford is facing an industrial-land crunch and the city is running out of places to house large businesses that might look to move to the central Fraser Valley. In 2018, the Agricultural Land Commission denied the city’s request to exclude land from the ALR in order to provide space for industrial growth.

Braun says the city will continue to push the province to increase the land available for industry.

“We need to broaden our industrial tax base,” he says.

The pandemic hasn’t stalled the development of new businesses.

Between September 2019 and October 2020, the city issued $42 million worth of industrial building permits for the construction of 300,000 square feet of buildings. That’s not far off of the previous year’s total of $45 million worth of building permits.

On the commercial side, $44 million worth of building permits were issued. That’s down from $60 million the previous year – although that was a record. Even with the pandemic, 2019/20 will be one of the biggest years for commercial and industrial building in Abbotsford’s history.

The future, though, has never been less certain.

“I don’t think life’s going to be quite the same when we come out the other end,” Braun says. “I’m not sure what it will look like, but there will be some things that stay with us.”

Between September 2019 and October 2020, the city issued $42 million worth of industrial building permits. (John Morrow/Abbotsford News)

ABBOTSFORD INTERNATIONAL IS

OPEN FOR BUSINESS FLYING FROM YXX

Westjet: 3 Daily flights to Calgary, with connections to their entire network Swoop: Daily flights to Edmonton, and regular service to Toronto Pearson & Hamilton

BOOK

TODAY AT

WESTJET.COM ❚

abbotsfordairport.ca

FLYSWOOP.COM

AEROSPACE PARTNERS: ❙ Abbotsford Airshow ❙ Abbotsford Flying Club ❙ Airside Event Spaces ❙ Alpine Aerotech ❙ Andres Welding & Machining Ltd. ❙ Bakerview Aviation ❙ BRC Aircraft ❙ BC Forestry Tanker Base ❙ Canada Aviation Academy Inc. ❙ Campbell Helicopters ❙ Cascade Aerospace ❙ Chinook Helicopters ❙ Coastal Pacific Aviation ❙ Conair Group ❙ Corp Air ❙ Godspeed Aviation ❙ Marshall Aerospace ❙ Nav Canada Control Tower ❙ Peregrine Aerial Surveys ❙ Principal Air ❙ Regional Cadet Air Operations (Pacific) ❙ RS & Associates ❙ Sequoia Helicopters ❙ Shell Aerocentre ❙ Tradex ❙ University of the Fraser Valley ❙ Westview Aviation

B6 Thursday, December 3, 2020

UDistrict & downtown The UDistrict has nearly 500 housing units under construction, and the city centre has close to 300. Developers have applied to build a further 884 units in the city centre. There are also more than 250 housing units being built in the historic downtown, with the city reviewing applications to construct another 515.

Abbotsford News

www.abbynews.com

A six-storey 60-unit affordable-housing project is under construction on Fuller Street in central Abbotsford. (John Morrow/Abbotsford News)

Residential housing boom shows little sign of slowdown Council signs off on largest multi-family housing development in history Abbotsford’s building boom has continued in 2020, despite the unprecedented challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic.

I am pleasantly surprised that the rate of development is continuing.”

Henry Braun

come. And more are in the planning stage, including large proposed new developments in central Abbotsford.

And while the sector has been challenged, “I am pleasantly surprised that the rate of there is little indication that there will be any development is continuing,” Mayor Henry large-scale slowing of the dramatic rate of Braun says. building in Abbotsford.

This fall, council signed off on what could Over the last five years, 4,534 new units of be the largest multi-family housing develhousing have been completed in Abbotsopment in the history of Abbotsford. Emco ford, with last year being one of the busiest Developments has plans to build nearly 900 on record. The pandemic has slowed the units of housing – along with commercial rate of building – housing starts and comand retail space – in a series of buildings on pletions have both dropped since the virus the north side of South Fraser Way, near Sevcame to Canada. But this summer’s numbers enoaks Shopping Centre. would still be high compared to any preThe first phase of building would see 2015 measure. twin 14-storey towers constructed to house Construction wrapped up on 396 housing units between March and September, while work began on 380 units. That’s down from the 706 units finished in the same period last year, and the 830 starts that got underway. But there are indications that’s largely the result of the uncertainty of the pandemic and challenges caused by the protocols and restrictions needed to fight the virus.

As of September 2020, a total of 1,754 units are under construction and expected to be completed in the months and years to

cy rate was only barely above one per cent in the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s latest report. And while that was an improvement on recent years, it remains one of the lowest rates in the city’s history.

“Where we need help is on the rental side,” Braun says.

More help might also be on the way.

Another major project in the works that could lessen the rental crunch will be led by Matsqui First Nation. This fall, the provincial government transferred a nine-acre parcel of land along McCallum Road back to the First Nation. The site, which had previously been home to MSA Hospital, is the last major plot of vacant land in central Abbotshundreds of seniors under the care of the ford. Matsqui intends to retain ownership Mennonite Benevolent Society. The secof the land and has partnered with a Vanond phase would see the construction of a couver development company to develop a 30-storey tower that would become Abbots- plan to build hundreds of rental apartment ford’s tallest building. units on the site. It also hopes to incorporate other uses, including commercial and, poIn exchange for being able to build at a tentially, health care. higher density, the developer has guaranteed that more than 500 units at the site will Braun says work is also underway to find be rental housing in perpetuity. ways to provide housing for those who can’t That’s meant, in part, to address a shortfall afford a home. of rental housing. Abbotsford’s rental vacan-

Continued on B8

Abbotsford News

www.abbynews.com

BUILDING RESILIENCE TODAY FOR A VIBRANT TOMORROW Last year, half of UFV’s domestic students were residents of the Fraser Valley. When they graduate, our statistics show many of these students will remain in the Fraser Valley, where they become leaders in the economic, social, and civic life of our city.

UFV is proud to partner with the Fraser Valley’s industry, government, and not-for-profit sectors in research and solution-building that will help carry our community through the pandemic and into a healthy and vibrant future.

ufv.ca

Thursday, December 3, 2020 B7

B8 Thursday, December 3, 2020

Abbotsford News

www.abbynews.com

10,000 people eyed for Abby Tech District

From B6

than 230 were under construction as of September – but as the cost of land has risen and “Behind the scenes, we’re working with BC its availability has decreased, developers have Housing to continue to add more stock to Ab- started building even more townhomes and botsford,” Braun says. He noted that, in 2020, apartments to meet the demand for new the city received “designated community” homes. status which will allow Abbotsford to access Over the last five years, about 55 per cent of federal funding to tackle homelessness. all new construction was of apartment units, Several other major projects are in various and another 20 per cent was townhomes. stages of the planning and sales process.

That’s not an accident. In 2016, Abbotsford In 2019, council signed off on a plan to build council adopted a new Official Community hundreds of units of housing on the former Plan (OCP) that envisioned a “city of centres” site of the Clayburn Brick Plant, just north of and aimed to encourage more building in the historic downtown. established neighbourhoods. The goal was to densify efficiently and create a communiAnd near Auguston, that community’s ty that was easier to navigate without a car. developer is looking to rework a proposal to develop a site to house more than 10,000 Subsequent plans have firmed up visions people. That proposal is called the Abbotsford for Abbotsford’s city centre, UDistrict and Tech District and follows the developers rehistoric downtown commercial centres. jected We Town plans for the area.

“We’re seeing it come to fruition,” Braun One of the biggest changes in recent years says. has been the burgeoning multi-family sector.

There are more than 250 housing units Fifteen years ago, more than half of all being built in the historic downtown, with new houses being built were single-famthe city reviewing applications to construct ily detached houses. But over the last five another 515. years, that’s changed considerably. Now, just The UDistrict has nearly 500 housing units one-quarter of new homes are single-family under construction, and the city centre has houses. close to 300. Developers have applied to Lots of those are still getting built – more build a further 884 units in the city centre.

IF THE TOOTH FAIRY WON’T PAY YOUR DENTAL BILLS,

One-quarter of new homes being built in Abbotsford are single-family residences. (John Morrow/Abbotsford News)

Making

WE CAN!

The reality is we all can use help with unexpected expenses like dental bills, prescription drugs, or medical supplies. Now help is here, with affordable group coverage designed specifically for small to medium sized businesses. See why over 25,000 business owners selected this plan!

a great place to live, work, play & DO BUSINESS

604.859.9651

www.chamberplan.ca

#207-32900 South Fraser Way

abbotsfordchamber.com https://www.abbotsfordchamber.com/

Abbotsford News

www.abbynews.com

Thursday, December 3, 2020 B9

Hospital responds to COVID-19 pandemic Abbotsford Regional Hospital and Cancer Centre one of three Fraser Health sites caring for critically ill patients

Abbotsford Regional Hospital (ARH) and Cancer Centre’s medical staff and physicians are working around the clock to ensure people can access hospital services, COVID-19 testing, and long-term-care and assisted-living supports.

are encouraged to get tested as soon as COVID19-like symptoms appear, even if they are mild.

Anyone, regardless of where they live, can access a COVID-19 testing centre. It’s best to book an appointment through Fraser Health’s website.

It is one of three sites in the Fraser Health region designated to care for critically ill COVID-19 patients, including those on ventilators. The hospital’s intensive care unit has room for patients who need that level of care, and can increase capacity as needed.

For those who don’t know where to get care, Fraser Health Virtual Care can connect them by calling 1-800-314-0999. The service launched in September with phone and video-conferencing accessible from the comfort of home.

The ARH emergency department renovation and upgrade project made significant progress over the last year. The $16.5 million project will feature a dedicated treatment area for mental-health and substance-use patients, increased room for families and caregivers, and a redesigned registration and triage area.

Two additional ICU spaces were added this year. The majority of people with COVID-19 do not need hospital care and recover at home.

To support families and caregivers to stay in touch, Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation (FVHCF) donated iPads to allow for virtual visits.

For those patients who aren’t comfortable with iPads or don’t have a phone, there’s always mail.

A $16.5 million emergency department renovation and upgrade project is underway at Abbotsford Regional As well, the new emergency department will Hospital. (John Morrow/Abbotsford News). INSET: The community has continued to show its gratitude for the staff have improved space for trauma, cardiac and at Abbotsford Regional Hospital during the pandemic. (Submitted photo) acute care, and dedicated stretcher bays for Hospital volunteers put together the “You’ve umes of the past two years. collection centres. patients arriving by ambulance. Throughout Got Mail” program where family and friends can email letters to a central inbox. The letters are The hospital added additional surgical time To better support Fraser Valley residents need- COVID-19, the project team and construction crews have been adhering to proper workplace printed and hand-delivered to patients by volun- and hired more anesthesiologists so it is now ing access to COVID-19 testing, Fraser Health teers. Fraser Health is grateful to the FVHCF and well-positioned to catch up on surgeries that expanded and relocated its test collection centre safety protocols. community volunteers for the important role were postponed, while ensuring patients get to 1395 McKenzie Rd. (in front of the UFV athletThe staff at Fraser Health and ARH say they they play in the health-care system. urgent and scheduled surgeries in a timely man- ics building). The testing site is operated in part- would like to thank the community for their ner. nership with the Abbotsford Division of Family continued kindness. They say that the countless As many people in the community experiPractice, the City of Abbotsford and UFV. gifts, flowers, cards, letters, meals, and snacks enced first-hand, elective surgeries were postSurgeries are taking place in a way that minihave nourished their teams and lifted their spirponed early on in the pandemic to make way mizes the risk of transmission of COVID-19. Staff People can drive through or walk up seven for a possible surge in COVID-19 patients. By late are wearing appropriate personal protective days a week from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The cen- its, and the seven o’clock cheer was a rallying call to support those who care for all of us in this spring, elective surgeries resumed and, by June, equipment both at the hospital and at locations tre has capacity to test as many as 500 people the hospital was back to the normal surgical vol- in the community, including the COVID-19 test per day. People living in the Fraser Health region time of need.

Together we are

For over 40 years Bob has been building his business based on the Golden Rule.

Treating others the way he would want to be treated. As a result his business has been growing every year with satisfied clients recommending their family and friends. Bob has a burning desire to serve others and has used his success to change lives permanently for thousands around the world and in his community by supporting great causes like the Salvation Army, New Life Recovery in Abbotsford, Union Gospel Mission, Gain-Water For Life and more. Bob truly believes we can make a positive difference in this world by reaching out to help others.

building a

Making Dreams ComeTrue

strong

604-309-7693

community for all.

Michael de Jong MLA Abbotsford West

www.mikedejongmla.bc.ca mike.dejong.mla@leg.bc.ca

www.BobEdwards.ca www.telegraphcoverealestate.com (be sure to click on the whale video)

https://www.telegraphcoverealestate.com/

Serving the Fraser Valley White Rock to Chilliwack andTelegraph Cove on Northern Vancouver Island

Fraser Valley Real Estate Board Top 3% in dollar volume in 2019 Medallion Award for 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020

B10 Thursday, December 3, 2020

Abbotsford News

www.abbynews.com

New $152M courthouse slated to open in January Abbotsford Law Courts at 180,000 square feet will house 14 courtrooms, including three Supreme

The province’s first new courthouse in a decade is slated to open in Abbotsford in January 2021.

The Abbotsford Law Courts (ALC) – located at Trethewey Street and Veterans Way in the civic precinct – is expected to open to the public on Jan. 18, according to a notice posted on the website for the Courts of British Columbia.

single-room courthouse in 1967 and has been renovated over the years to its current configuration of five provincial courtrooms and two initial appearance/ conference rooms.

Only provincial court cases are dealt with in the old courthouse. The inclusion of BC Supreme Court in the new building means that Abbotsford and Mission residents will no longer have to travel to Chilliwack for cases involving divorce, disputes over $35,000 and criminal jury trials.

The court is slated to begin hearing trials on Feb. 1, the notice states.

The new 180,000-square-foot four-storey ALC will house 14 courtrooms – eight provincial, three Supreme and three initial appearance/conference rooms.

Plenary PLC Justice was selected as the project proponent to design, build, finance and maintain the new courthouse under a 30-year concession.

It will be the fourth Supreme Court location in the Lower Mainland, after Chilliwack, New Westminster and Vancouver.

The project is being funded through a mix of public and private financing.

The new courthouse is expected to have the capacity to meet provincial and Supreme court demand in Abbotsford and the lower Fraser Valley through 2035.

In addition, the project includes a separate 336-stall parkade adjacent to the courthouse.

The facility plans also incorporate justice programs such as the BC Prosecution Service, Community Corrections and a Justice Access Centre.

But the project has been developed to meet future demands, with two of the conference rooms being designed for use as fully functioning courtrooms.

Groundbreaking on the $152 million project took place in July 2018 to replace the aging leased courthouse on South Fraser Way, which was found to be infested by vermin and plagued by functional, overcrowding, security and safety issues, according to a 2014 report.

The ALC is on land leased to the Ministry of Citizens’ Services by the City of Abbotsford.

It is estimated that the project will have provided job opportunities for more than Construction on the new Abbotsford Law Courts is nearing completion, with the project expected to open to the 1,000 local workers by the time construction is complete. public in January. (John Morrow/Abbotsford News)

That building was constructed as a

DENTURES?

Proudly serving Abbotsford for 24 years. Our family-run denture clinic is observing all COVID-19 guidelines from WorkSafeBC, BC CDC, and the Ministry of Health for the safety of our patients and staff. We are booking appointments and look forward to seeing you!

“

For over 18 months I have suffered with poor fitting dentures. With you, after one consultation, one impression, and one adjustment, I am again enjoying eating - even corn ~Peter, Abbotsford on the cob! Thank you!

”

• Implant Supported Dentures • Full & Partial Dentures • Relines and Rebases • Standard & Precision Dentures • Same Day Repairs and Cleaning • Soft Liners For Sensitive Gums

2020, 2019, 2017, 2016

Cliff C. Kafka, Registered Denturist

Call today for a FREE Consultation • Financing Available

Real Canadian Superstore REgiSTRaNT

KafKa Denture CliniC 604.850.0355

#206-2752 Allwood Street, Abbotsford

Abbotsford News

www.abbynews.com

Thursday, December 3, 2020 B11

UFV adapts to new educational environment

In mid-March 2020, the University of the Fraser Valley was humming along in the routine of late-semester activities.

care, education, and other vital sectors. Some faculty research also continues in an online format.

Students were cramming for mid-terms, preparing assignments, and working on group projects. Faculty were preparing and presenting their last few weeks of lectures. Hundreds of people attended events on campus.

“Our faculty and staff have faced these uncertain and challenging times with extraordinary leadership, collaboration and flexibility. It has made me prouder than ever to be a part of the UFV community,” MacLean said.

And then, the world changed.

“We will continue to engage learners and transform lives by providing exceptional learning opportunities and supporting our students in this new and complex environment.”

UFV had been keeping an eye on the escalating COVID-19 situation, but the declaration of a pandemic on March 11 spurred substantial action. On March 15, UFV announced a week-long pause in courses so faculty could adapt their curriculum to a remote learning model.

Students can still enjoy a variety of university experiences online, including clubs, academic tutoring, and recreational activities.

On March 23, classes resumed, with almost all instruction taking place remotely and most students, professors, and staff working and studying Risk and safety ambassadors are on campus at University of the Fraser Valley to encourage physical distancing and from home. other safety measures. (Photo courtesy of UFV) Suddenly, the university experience was very UFV announced that fall and winter semester And for those in need, there is a Student Emerdifferent for everyone involved. programming would be mostly online as well, gency Fund, one that many UFV employees supUFV adapted and figured out new ways to ed- and invested in remote learning and meeting port by donating the equivalent of their monthly ucate, showcase work, celebrate excellence, and software, technology, and interfaces to facilitate parking fees while they work from home. live its goals of engaging learners, transforming virtual learning and community engagement.

New research centres, including the Commulives, and building community.

This fall, events such as a literary festival, the nity Health and Social Innovation Hub, the Peace Over the spring, special events went ahead in Pride Series, guest lectures, National Career Week and Reconciliation Centre, and the Esposito Famvirtual formats. panels, and a UFV Theatre presentation went ily Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship ahead, in online formats. are involved in making community connections An in-person convocation wasn’t possible, and are launching research projects and partnerbut each graduate received a celebration Online support resources offer guidance and ships. package in the mail, and UFV president and information for students new to this environvice-chancellor Dr. Joanne MacLean visited ment and student services – including advising, Students are completing practicums and major award winners at their homes to pres- counselling, accessibility, financial aid, and regis- co-op positions in online formats. And many ent in a physically distanced way. tration – are all offered virtually. alumni are on the front lines, working in health

Approximately 15 per cent of students still have a portion of their learning in face-to-face settings. Faculty and students in some trades and technology, health sciences, and science programs continue to attend labs and applied learning experiences in person.

All provincial health orders and WorkSafeBC requirements are in place. Risk controls, safe work and learning practices, and safety training regimens are established and maintained.

Facilities crews clean more frequently and with more intensity. Risk and safety ambassadors have been hired to encourage physical distancing and other safety measures. Masks are mandatory on campus.

While the second wave of the pandemic rolls on, UFV has adapted, persevered, and been innovative in the delivery of services, education, and its approach to education.

1000’s of NEW & USED vehicles all in one location!

10 Dealerships - 16 Value Brands

All roads lead to our LOOP

Murray GM

Abbotsford Volkswagen OpenRoad Toyota Abbotsford MSA Ford VIP Mazda The Honda Way

Murray Kia Abbotsford Chrysler Abbotsford Hyundai Abbotsford Nissan  Chevrolet  Buick  GMC  Cadillac  Kia  Hyundai  Nissan  Chrysler  Jeep  Ram  Toyota  Dodge  Volkswagen  Ford  Mazda  Honda

Easy access to Freeway - City - Rural roads from our LOOP = stress free test drives!

Toll Free: 604-359-1304 Automall Drive

Abbotsford

Start your search engine here...

On the spot Insurance 604 856 3099

www.fvautomall.com

B12 Thursday, December 3, 2020

Abbotsford News

www.abbynews.com

Three-quarters of Abbotsford’s land is in the Agricultural Land Reserve. The community’s farm gate receipts totalled $853 million in 2016 (the latest stats available.) (John Morrow/Abbotsford News)

Ag sector digs deep during tough times No British Columbia city plays a bigger role in this province’s food chain than Abbotsford

The COVID-19 pandemic has reinforced the importance of agriculture, farming and food security. It’s also been a reminder of how a strong agriculture sector can get a city through tough times.

The Fraser Valley has some of the province’s richest soil, with agricultural capabilities that supersede anything else in the rest of the province. And no British Columbia city plays a bigger role in this province’s food chain than Abbotsford.

The city is the largest municipality by size in B.C. And while its land base is still just a speck on the provincial map, the richness of its soil – particularly on Matsqui and Sumas prairies – enables Abbotsford farmers to produce a massive share of some of the province’s biggest agricultural products.

The Fraser Valley region produces the majority of B.C.’s dairy products, berries, vegetables, poultry, pork, eggs, mushrooms, flowers and nursery products. And at the centre of much of that activity is Abbotsford itself.

Most of Abbotsford – three-quarters of its entire land base – is in the Agricultural Land Reserve, and much of it is intensively used.

The 2016 farm census put farm gate receipts that year at $853 million in Abbotsford – a remarkable 33 per cent increase from five years prior and nearly a quarter of all farm sales in British Columbia. Newer figures won’t be available until the 2021 census is conducted, but if trends hold, the city’s farm gate sales should pass the $1 billion mark within a year or two.

The Abbotsford farming economy isn’t built around one or two crops, or one or two companies. The 2016 figures showed 103 farms with

receipts exceeding $2 million, up from 63 five years earlier. The diversification of the sector means that money flows all around the community and the Fraser Valley.

And the pandemic has again shown the resilience and durability of the agriculture sector during economic disruptions.

“People have to eat,” Mayor Henry Braun says.

“We take it for granted and we don’t fully appreciate what we have.

“I have watched ups and downs in our economy and agriculture smooths out those dips in the economy. “ Abbotsford’s agriculture sector isn’t a 20th century legacy trying to hold on in an increasingly tech-dependent world. Rather, the agriculture sector is a key driver of technology change and innovation in the city. Each year, tens of thousands of dollars of Agriculture Enhancement Grants are handed out to forward-thinking initiatives pushing the boundaries of food production.

One company that has twice received such grants is Eleos Robotics, which is pioneering and testing the use of robots to detect weeds and help farmers to reduce their use of herbicides. Local raspberry growers are also using technology and economic analysis to try to develop more profitable varieties.

to optimize drivers’ delivery routes, to ensure efficiency and environmental sustainability.

The company can also use data to help farmers optimize their growing strategies. The project received $1 million in government super-cluster funding specifically targeting projects that can help Canadians during the pandemic.

Some of Abbotsford’s biggest producers are in the poultry and dairy supply management sectors. More than half of Abbotsford’s farmland is used for raising livestock, including egg-laying and broiler chickens, cows, hogs and other animals.

Many such greenhouses are massive, and more than two million square feet of greenhouse floor space has been built since the start of 2017. That translates to about 46 acres of greenhouses.

tens of millions of eggs for consumers around the province. As the pandemic took hold this spring, local farmers partnered with the food bank to provide eggs for residents in need.

Four years ago, the farm census found AbSimilarly, another set of local entrepreneurs botsford boasted nearly 10 million hens and launched Local Food Supply Co. and partnered chickens on 349 different farms. That’s roughly with local farmers to deliver Fraser Valley-grown 70 chickens for each human resident. food to residents.

Abbotsford has more than 100 dairy producMany growers have turned to greenhouses ers who ship one-fifth of the province’s milk. in pursuit of year-round growing and intensive Around 35,000 cows – mostly dairy – were production. Since the start of 2017, local farmcounted in Abbotsford in 2016. ers have spent nearly $45 million to build new And the egg industry is also a local agriculgreenhouses or improve their existing ones. tural mainstay, with Abbotsford producing

Indeed, the city’s largest buildings, by footprint, are greenhouses. In total, Abbotsford’s greenhouses contain more than 160 acres worth of growing space, a figure that represents around 13 per cent of the province’s total.

The largest non-livestock agriculture sector in Abbotsford is the berry industry. A little more than one-quarter of the city’s farmland is devoted to the fruits, and a recent inventory counted 1,282 berry farms.

Of about 10,000 acres devoted to berry production, a little more than two-thirds was used to grow blueberries. Most of the rest was devoted to raspberries, although 200 acres were also used for cranberry growing.

Across the sector, farmers have been investing in their properties, with building permits for $105 million worth of new construction A range of other new companies are using Local farmers also grow a range of other crops technology to help both farmers and consum- issued since 2017. Many of the biggest of those in Abbotsford’s bountiful soils. Those include involve the valuable mushroom composting iners. dustry, with one mushroom compost barn built kiwi fruit, broccoli, brussels sprouts, potatoes, They include DirectFood.store, a local compa- in the last year valued at $9.7 million. cauliflowers and even rice. And the popular ny that has opened a web store to connect local wine and craft beer industry has driven deThe city’s many farms also sit at the core of a residents directly with farmers’ products. Food mand for locally produced grapes and hops. substantial food-processing industry. is delivered online, and technology is used

Abbotsford News

www.abbynews.com

ABBOTSFORD

THE HUB OF THE FRASER VALLEY

CITY OF ABBOTSFORD ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT econdev@abbotsford.ca /CAED.Abbotsford

604-864-5586

@AbbotsfordEcDev

abbotsford.ca @abbotsfordecdev

Thursday, December 3, 2020 B13

B14 Thursday, December 3, 2020

Abbotsford News

www.abbynews.com

Responsive and Resilient:

Economic Development in 2020 & 2021.

The disruptive impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic have been felt across the globe. Here in Abbotsford, we have certainly experienced impacts to our businesses and to our local economy. However, from this unanticipated challenge we have witnessed innovation take shape as business owners and community organizations adapt to ensure that we keep moving forward and that we don’t lose the unique spirit that is undeniably Abbotsford.

The City is proud of its partnership in the Abbotsford Business Community Coalition (ABCC) this year, bringing together multiple agencies - including the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce, Abbotsford Downtown Business Association, Fraser Valley Indo-Canadian Business Association, and more. This partnership led a communitydriven response to support business needs outside of Provincial and Federal programs.

Support from the Province’s Liquor Regulation Branch to readily facilitate temporary outdoor patios to encourage the revival of the hospitality industry stands as another example of flexibility to support business owners. Using the structure of the Special Events Permit application, a collaborative effort involving Economic Development, Engineering, Bylaw Enforcement, Business Licencing, Planning, Legal, Fire Department and Police Services as well as external liaison with Fraser Health, we have worked to efficiently process applications and help our business owners to maximize their present opportunity.

Beyond the ‘hands on’ support for business, the Economic Development department has also been working on longer term strategies and programs focused on the future of our local economy.

When you Shop Local, you Support Local.

Local businesses are essential to the growth and innovation in our economy. By supporting local businesses you are supporting your neighbourhoods and communities. Here’s how we can do our part to support local: CITY OF ABBOTSFORD ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Business Visitation Highlight Reel.

Subscribe to the City of Abbotsford’s Youtube channel and check out the Business Visitation playlist to learn more about organizations in the community that need your support. Visit youtube.com/ cityofabbotsfordbc

Open Abbotsford Businesses Listing.

Call ahead, shop online, pick up your order curbside; or have your order delivered!

Visit abbotsford.ca to view an updated list of businesses open in Abbotsford.

Abbotsford News

www.abbynews.com

Community Resilience & Recovery Strategy.

The City’s new Community Resilience & Recovery Strategy was formally adopted by Council in July and outlines both the short and long term approaches to ensuring Abbotsford’s prosperity both now and into the future. The strategy has been published both online and in print.

Available online at abbotsford.ca

Thursday, December 3, 2020 B15

Workforce Development.

This fall, the Economic Development department launched a pilot program with the Abbotsford School District which will see the introduction of Edge Factor into five local high schools. At this critical point when youth as they are being asked to think about their future and make course selections toward a career, our opportunity to highlight rewarding local careers better enables us to retain our emerging workforce.

For an introduction to the possibilities that exist for your business, we encourage you to check out this brief video overview.

GIS Microsite.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZJEfp3JMASE

City of Abbotsford Economic Development continues to enhance our GIS (Geographic Information System) microsite to include cutting edge tools to help businesses obtain key information. Typically used for potential investors to explore available properties, our pandemic response included the addition of a layer to spotlight “Open Businesses” to help customers find local shops and services. This layer allowed businesses to post their hours of operation, COVID-19 safety protocols, and specialized service offerings (e.g. curbside/ window service, pickup, takeout, delivery).

Business Visitation Program.

This year, we replaced the annual Business Walks program with an ongoing Business Visitation Program. This program focuses on providing a concierge approach in responding to business needs both through in-bound inquiries and outbound visitation. The program has been well-received since its launch in September and has already seen more than a dozen businesses participate to navigate their challenges and opportunities. With a keen focus on timely and measurable outcomes, we are better communicating how much we value our local entrepreneurs and business owners.

Strong Film Sector.

Even with a pause in film activity during the Spring, the schedule for film production in Abbotsford continues to see an escalation of activity in this sector, eclipsing records set in previous years. We continue to streamline our application processes to nest ensure online application forms and resources, standardized polling forms, location maps for popular Downtown Abbotsford filming locations, and more.

Abbotsford has been the home to 61 film productions, with 221 film days with over $2 million dollars (6 outstanding wrap sheets) invested in our community.

Community Special Events.

In a year when community gatherings were prohibited

by Provincial health orders, organizations and individuals in Abbotsford adapted and created more than 100 opportunities for residents to stay connected! Drive-thru events, virtual online concerts, and exploring avenues to facilitate socially distanced family fun that allowed residents to still feel a sense of community.

Responsive Neighbourhood Grants.

With support from the Vancouver Foundation and Abbotsford Community Foundation, the City of Abbotsford offers funding for small-scale projects aimed at reducing social isolation and connecting Abbotsford residents and students. These small grants help to build safer, more inclusive, and connected communities. In 2020, 32 grants over $17,000 were issued to support a variety of great initiatives.

Make it Local, Buy BC. Over $439,000 in gift certificates were purchased, from 1,430 businesses in the 109 communities on the Support Local BC website.

Learn more about the program by visiting supportlocalbc.com

Support BC Farmers’ Markets.

The BC Farmers’ Market Association is helping member markets set-up an online model in addition to physical markets.

Find an online farmers’ market near you by visiting bcfarmersmarkettrail.com

ABBOTSFORD: THE HUB OF THE FRASER VALLEY

Like, Comment, and Share!

Follow businesses in your community on social media and help boost their engagement. This can increase their visibility as a small business.

Leave a Google Review.

Take the time to rate your favourite local businesses on Google. Share a picture or a story about the services that are meaningful to you.

B16 Thursday, December 3, 2020

Abbotsford News

www.abbynews.com

NEW! CART PROGRAM CURBSIDE COLLECTION

April 2021

The new curbside collection program is rolling out on April 19, 2021.

Easy to use!

Carts will have wheels and can be easily rolled to the curb on collection day. No more heavy lifting!

Simple to sort!

Material can be placed directly into the carts. No blue bags needed!

Cleaner and greener!

The new renewable diesel powered trucks mean fewer emissions and secure, lidded carts mean cleaner neighbourhoods on collection day.

Three 240 litre carts will be delivered to your household starting in February 2021.

Find out more by visiting abbotsford.ca/curbside2021 and get ready to roll!

ENGINEERING & REGIONAL UTILITIES 604-864-5514 abbotsford.ca/curbside2021

For tools & updates download the Curbside Collection App!

www.abbynews.com

Abbotsford News

Thursday, December 3, 2020 B17

An aerial view of Mill Lake in central Abbotsford. (John Morrow/Abbotsford News)

Tourism value decreased It is estimated that tourism-related activity in the community will be about $22.5 million this year – about half of what it was in 2019 – but local businesses are finding new and innovative ways to welcome guests while keeping the community safe during the pandemic.

Tourism is a strong, resilient industry.

We will recover but don’t anticipate a full recovery until 2024.”

Craig Nichols

Tourism takes a hit, but city in good position to recover ‘A strong, resilient industry,’ says ED of Tourism Abbotsford The 2020 COVID-19 pandemic has hit many industries hard, including tourism, but Abbotsford is well-positioned to recover, says the executive director of Tourism Abbotsford.

the increase in traffic from B.C. residents did not make up for the absence of visitors from Canada, the U.S. and other source markets that come to experience our events,” Nichols said.

were all local.

Craig Nichols said it is estimated that tourism-related activity in the community will be about $22.5 million this year – about half of what it was in 2019.

He said 80 per cent of Tourism Abbotsford’s partners indicated they experienced reduced operations during the summer compared to last year, with half indicating they experienced a decline in revenue of 50 per cent or more.

He said, looking ahead, it is expected that the domestic and “friends and family” markets will be the first to recover.

Hotels are on track to realize around $12 million from overnight visitors in 2020, a 53 per cent decline from last year.

Nichols said the year started great, with occupancy performance before the pandemic up 12 per cent over from 2019. But then COVID hit and occupancy bottomed at 25.9 per cent in April.

It slowly rebounded with each passing month and crested at 50 per cent in September.

Nichols said, with the second wave of the virus underway in the latter part of the year and travel restrictions being tightened, there will a “significant softening” this winter.

He said the biggest setback for local tourism has been the cancellation of large events.

“While we did see an uptick in day traffic as the summer went along, it was clear that

Nichols said local wineries and breweries also had a good year, and Tourism Abbotsford was part of the launch of the BC Bird Trail.

“Both align well given our proximity to Vancouver and the Abbotsford Airport. Also, Swoop and WestJet are motivated to service But despite the downturn, Nichols said these markets. Coming out of COVID, Abthere are a few things worth highlighting, botsford has what people are looking for – including a strong focus on supporting local healthy experiences and wide-open spaces,” business.

Nichols said.

“Due to the challenges of COVID, the He said that, assuming a vaccine is on its tourism industry has perhaps never been way, the city should see a steady increase stronger. There is a lot of support, sharing of in tourism activity as the summer and fall information and best practices, and collabo- come and go next year, and a nice shot in ration,” he said. the arm once the borders reopen.

Nichols pointed to a couple of local events that were successful during the pandemic. He said Mother’s Day gift baskets sold through Tourism Abbotsford and Tradex featured products from local agri-tourism businesses and generated $10,000 “that flowed directly to our partners.”

The Sun and Soil Concert Series featured five concerts at various farms around Abbotsford. Tickets were limited to 50 people, and the music, food, and beverage featured

Nichols said we’ll really know we are on our way back once we are able to again host large events, but this isn’t likely until sometime in 2022. ”Tourism is a strong, resilient industry. We will recover but don’t anticipate a full recovery until 2024.”

The Tourism Abbotsford website (tourismabbotsford.ca) highlights local features that can be enjoyed during the pandemic.

B18 Thursday, December 3, 2020

Abbotsford News

Making her clients her NUMBER ONE priority, let Mindy’s 34 years of experience work for you.

Her hard work, knowledge and perseverance has made Mindy the TOP REALTORÂŽ of the 3600 Fraser Valley Real Estate Board Realtors consistently year after year. Mindy has the Knowledge and Dedication to turn your dreams into reality, why settle for less!

Wondering what your home is worth?

Contact me for a FREE EVALUATION whether buying, selling or investing let my 34 years of experience work for you!

604-826-1000 | #103 - 33070 Fifth Ave | www.mindymcpherson.com

www.abbynews.com

Abbotsford News

www.abbynews.com

Thursday, December 3, 2020 B19

Downtown continues building its future

Despite pandemic, optimism for downtown area grows after new proposals and increased awareness The COVID-19 pandemic brought with it a myriad of challenges for everyone in Abbotsford, but 2020 saw the downtown area’s planned growth continue, and it evolved into a gathering point during tumultuous times.

later in the year two proposals were considered for the area.

Local Food Supply Co., a small grocery store, was submitted as an application to the city on the Rail District Market site on West Railway Street.

Abbotsford’s historic downtown core is regarded as a tourist gem, and is known as the city’s cultural district.

The proposal is being led by Field House brewing owner Josh Vanderheide, Jason Lepp of Lepp Farms and Farm Market, and Josh McWilliams of the YVR Prep Commissary Kitchen.

It is tucked into a charming picturesque setting with brick-lined sidewalks and old-fashioned buildings along streets such as Essendene Avenue, Montrose Avenue and South Fraser Way.

The business is already taking online orders and delivering food to customers, using the West Railway building as a distribution hub. And the company is partnering with the Abbotsford food bank to allow residents to sponsor food hampers for families through its website.

The area is particularly known for its quaint selection of eateries, including wine, tea and coffee shops; 1950s-style diners; bakeries and delis; and cultural cuisine such as Thai, Chinese and Vietnamese.

Vanderheide says the group hopes to eventually bring back entertainment at the site, but it’s unclear when that will be possible.

The pedestrian-friendly area currently has more than 300 options for dining, shopping, service and entertainment.

And while the area looks to its future growth, earlier this year a nod to its past was acknowledged.

Back in February, a lane was named after one of downtown Abbotsford’s most important figures in the past decade and a half.

Bob Bos served on the Abbotsford Downtown Business Association (ADBA) board for more than two decades, was president of the organization for 13 years, and helped construct key downtown buildings that spurred the growth of

Adding to the amenities in downtown could be the creation of a new pub.

Abbotsford’s historic downtown continues to attract locals and tourists alike. (John Morrow/Abbotsford News) the area. He died in December 2018 at the age of 74.

Council decided to name a lane after him for his numerous contributions to the area over the years.

The previously unnamed lane links West Railway Street with Montvue Avenue, and passes next to the Spruce Collective, one of several

Pre-Engineered Building Kits

Durable & Maintenance-Free

buildings Bos helped construct.

He also built the Montrose Place project that houses six different storefronts and which the ADBA said “encapsulated downtown Abbotsford’s historic heritage in a new build.” Bos was also credited for helping lead downtown opposition to the Sumas Energy 2 power project.

The pandemic slowed down a lot of plans, but

No Welding

Old Yale Brewing plans to take over the Abbotsford Banquet and Conference Centre on Laurel Street and renovate it into a large brew pub with more than 200 seats.

Old Yale would also brew beer in a 780-squarefoot section of the building, although their Chilliwack location would continue to produce the bulk of the company’s brews. Most of the seats would be indoors, but a 38-seat outdoor patio is also planned.

No Concrete Foundations

Easy Build Structures pre-engineered 2" x 3" galvanized steel framing system uses an unique “slip-fit” design that simplifies the installation process with the added strength and durability to withstand our Canadian winters. Whether you are looking for roof-coverage only to protect your fleet and equipment or fully-enclosed garage packages for workspace or storage, Easy Build Structures has the building for you.

Our sales team will work with you to customize your structure package to meet all your requirements. Easy Build packages come complete with everything you need, ranging from overhead and man doors, windows, insulation options, sheeting and flashing colours, and hardware.

Our structure widths range from 10' through 50' with the length being as long as you need.

Take advantage of our full installation services throughout the Lower Mainland, including complimentary on-site consultations to fully design your custom structure. Furthermore, all our building packages are designed as do-ityourself kits with a step-by-step installation manual.

Our engineer can provide you with stamped and sealed drawings, schedule B and C-B, and site inspections to help assist you with any permitting processes required by your municipality. These services also come with our CSA-A660 certification for pre-engineered steel structures in Canada.

NOW CALL FOR A

CUSTOM QUOTE

55-13325 115th Avenue, Surrey 604.589.4280 Toll Free: 604.589.4202 www.easybuildstructures.ca http://www.easybuildstructures.ca/

B20 Thursday, December 3, 2020

Abbotsford News

www.abbynews.com

Airport hit hard by COVID-19 pandemic

Airport manager Parm Sidhu believes airport is in a good position to thrive when normalcy returns

Abbotsford International Airport (YXX) is one of the largest economic drivers in the city. And as more flights have been added in recent years, it has become an increasingly important part of the region’s social and economic transportation infrastructure.

In 2019, traffic at YXX exceeded one million passengers for the first time. It was a major milestone and capped five years of exponential growth that saw passenger numbers double during that period.

Then came 2020. The pandemic has hit many industries and sectors hard, but few have had to deal with as many changes as the air transportation sector.

Borders have been closed. Unprecedented travel restrictions have been imposed. And many people have either been scared to travel or – as conventions are cancelled, meetings are moved online, and tourist destinations close – just found themselves with no need to do so.

accessible for Canadians.”

Domestic flights – always YXX’s bread and butter – have continued into and out of the airport. Regular destinations still include Calgary, Edmonton, Hamilton and Toronto, with a restoration of many previous destinations anticipated to be added during the pandemic recovery cycle..

Passenger numbers in 2020 are forecast to be only about one-third of what they were in 2019, with about 323,000 people expected to pass through the terminal.

But while everyone is expecting COVID-19 to continue to impact business throughout the winter, Sidhu expects a bounce-back year as 2021 progresses.

“If you look at the data from other parts of the world over the summer … the pentup demand for visiting friends and family is going to be significant,” Sidhu said, noting that the airport’s ultra-low-cost carrier-focused business model revolves around preBut despite all that turmoil, airport general cisely those types of travellers. “We do believe manager Parm Sidhu believes the airport is in our business model is going to be excellent a position to thrive when normalcy resumes. for the recovery.”

Abbotsford International Airport manager Parm Sidhu. (John Morrow/Abbotsford News)

“We believe we’re going to have a significant role to play in the recovery period,” he says. “We believe ultra-low-cost carriers will continue to make travelling affordable and

The airport hasn’t only been surviving; it’s been laying the groundwork for continued

www.columbiacabinets.com

Continued on B21

Abbotsford News

www.abbynews.com

Thursday, December 3, 2020 B21

New hangars, new buildings bring new jobs

From B20

cade and Marshall to maintain the military’s KC-130J Super Hercules aircraft for at least the next five years.

growth and success once the world gets back to normal – whenever that may be.

And the area’s aerospace cluster continues to grow: there has been a new greenfield development each year since 2015.

YXX recently spent $5 million on expanding its terminal and is in the midst of an $8.5 million expansion for its bag room that will streamline baggage-handling operations for the airlines.

“We’re an economic enabler and we partner with people who want to invest here in land and buildings,” Sidhu says. “These investments – the new hangars and new buildings – bring jobs here.”

“People won’t necessarily see that improvement, but the airlines, the ground-handling agents and the capacity and throughput of that bag room will be set up for success for a long, long time,” Sidhu says. “We’ll continue to invest in infrastructure as passengers come back.”

Sidhu noted that many of the people taking flights into and out of Abbotsford aren’t locals, but choose the airport because of the low fares. And those people end up contributing to Abbotsford’s economy.

“A growing airport means the region is vibrant and growing. This is one of the most livable regions in North America.”

The airport isn’t just all about jets and airplanes, though.

In recent years, it has become a hub for bus travel. Prior to COVID-19, there were five shuttle buses a day running between the airport and SkyTrain, giving those without a car, or those who wanted to leave their vehicle at home, an easy way to get to their flight.

There are now bus connections to downtown

While there have been fewer passengers this year, the airport’s runways remain extremely busy. Indeed, it’s one of the top-five airports in Canada based on the number of aircraft movements.

Sidhu says there has been a noticeable increase in the number of private corporate jets flying into the airport.

Abbotsford International Airport runways. (Abbotsford News file photo) Vancouver from the airport, which has also ing jobs that require higher education, are become the Abbotsford stop for EBus’s routes employed at the airport. between the Interior and Metro Vancouver.

Many large aerospace companies also call Those new links further build a foundation the airport home: Conair, Chinook Helicopfor future growth. ters, Marshall Aerospace, Cascade Aerospace, “The ground transportation is also vital,” he Shell Aerocentre, Alpine Airtech, Westview Aviation, Coastal Pacific Aviation, Campbell says. “One thing is having the ultra-low-cost Helicopters, Bakerview Aviation and Sequoia fares … but you need a supporting ecosysHelicopters all have facilities on the 1,250tem of low-cost parking and ground transacre site. portation and we have that.”

Around 1,500 employees, many in well-pay-

In August, the U.S. military awarded a contract worth as much as $374 million to Cas-

The airport is itself owned and run by the City of Abbotsford; the city purchased it two decades ago for the low sum of just $10.

These days, it consistently turns a profit, allowing it to use those funds to improve the site for passengers and airlines.

YXX is home to many events, including one of the top 10 airshows in the world, the Abbotsford International Airshow. Many of those have been cancelled or restricted visitors over the last year, but Sidhu anticipates their return as soon as next year.

“We do see light at the end of the tunnel,” Sidhu says. “It’s a long tunnel, but there is light.”

We’re proud to be a part of this community.

RDM Lawyers LLP has helped thousands of families, homeowners, business owners and Fraser Valley residents with their legal needs. Let us help you.

RDM LAWYERS LLP YOUR LAWYERS FOR LIFE

http://www.rdmlawyers.com 604.853.0774

Expert Jewellery & Watch Repairs

33695 South Fraser Way Abbotsford BC V2S 2C1

• Fine Jewellery & Timepieces • Watch Batteries Replaced • Cash Paid for Scrap Gold All Work Done On-site by Master Goldsmith & Master Watchmaker

Free Run & Hormone Free Chicken Gourmet Meats • Apples • Sides

http://neufeldfarms.ca/

HE

T

Berry Barn Open Year Round with Fresh Fruits & Veggies!

WINNER ABB

OTSFORD N

EW

S

Voted Abbotsford’s fAVourite fArm mArket 3 YeArs iN A roW!

Voted Abbotsford’s Favourite Jeweller http://www.abbotsfordtimemaster.com 5 years in a row

B22 Thursday, December 3, 2020

Abbotsford News

www.abbynews.com

Centre aims to rise from the ashes of 2020

The fall of 2019 was the busiest ever for the Abbotsford Centre.

After a strong 2019 and early-2020, COVID-19 hit the Abbotsford Centre hard

A 50-day stretch from Sept. 14 to Nov. 3 saw the facility host 31 events and attract more than 48,000 patrons.

The arena hosted everything from a Vancouver Canucks exhibition game to the Fraser Valley Taco Festival and also brought in music acts such as Rascal Flatts and Dallas Smith.

Even The Wiggles came to town during that period, and 2020 was set to be another year of growth for the Abbotsford Centre.

But then 2020 happened.

Events were postponed, sometimes several times over, others were cancelled and the arena was unused for a great deal of 2020 – not from a lack of demand but from the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Going back a year ago, I think we were really excited for what 2020 was going to bring,” said Rick Comeau, the general manager of the AC. “We kicked off the year with a really good start in the first quarter after a great fall and this year was set to be one of our best ever as far as events go.”

The first rescheduling that had to occur was the Gnarly Barley Brew Festival, which was The Abbotsford Centre hours before tipoff of the Fraser Valley Bandits’ debut in 2019. The arena saw no games from the Bandits in 2020 due to COVID-19. (Ben Lypka/ originally set for March 14. The festival was set to feature more than 20 breweries from all Abbotsford News) across the province and allow attendees the Brad Paisley on March 7 was the final big started coming in. Each event organizer had one involved moving forward. chance to sample a variety of different drinks. a different mindset about moving forward, It was pushed back to Aug. 29 but then even- event hosted by the AC for 2020, but by the next week postponements and cancellations which made for a lot of uncertainty for everytually had to be outright cancelled.

Continued on B23

GARAGE FLOOR

SPECIALISTS

Keeping Abbotsford Safe & Secure for 30 years!

2019 BUSINESS SERVICES EXCELLENCE AWARD

Garage Floors

Team Logos

Storage

Call for a FREE ESTIMATE! LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

Porches

Patio Decks

Garage Floors and More!

• Polyurea & Epoxy Coatings • Industrial Grade Quality and Strength • Oil and Chemical Resistant • Impact and Abrasion Resistant • Easy to Clean • Storage Solutions

604-615-1824

• Food Safe & Dust Free • Countless Colour Options • Locally Owned and Operated • 20 Year Warranty • Fully Insured • Certified and Trusted Installer

www.zonegarage.ca

• Fire alarm tests & upgrades • Sprinkler system tests & installs • Emergency & exit light units • Fire extinguishers sales & service • Fire safety plans • Fire hydrants

Taking aking care of your complete fir fire protection needs. info@elitefireprotection.com• #1-33605 Maclure Road, Abbotsford

604.850.0014 • www.elitefireprotection.com

Call For ALL Your Insurance Needs As a broker, we can search the markets to give you the best rate & coverage for your home!

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 1A-32465 South Fraser Way (South Fraser Way & Mon-Fri 8:30am-7pm Trethewey Street) Sat 9am-5pm Sun/Holidays 10am-5pm 604.852.2565

SHOWROOM NOW OPEN! Unit 5 - 30941 Peardonville Road, Abb.

brian@zonegaragefv.com

insurance services ltd.

Abbotsford News

www.abbynews.com

Thursday, December 3, 2020 B23

Want guests to come back and feel safe

From B22

will allow the audience to participate in the show. The first show was on Nov. 27, with other shows planned for Dec. 5, 13 and 19.

“Some were cancelling right away like Cirque du Soleil,” Comeau said. “Other shows wanted to postpone but they had no idea when to postpone to. It was really challenging trying to work with everybody to kind of move our calendar without knowing when that end date was, and even now it’s challenging for us.”

Comeau said it’s disappointing for the fans who anticipate the shows, but the pandemic has also been devastating to his staff. The AC has 16 full-time staff in normal times, but in early-July they had to lay off over half the staff due to all the uncertainty moving forward. There are now just seven full-time staff at the AC, and there have also been a number of part-time positions cut related to when events occur such as security, concession and host jobs.

Despite the lack of potential events to host, Comeau said the AC has been finding unique ways to have some money coming in. The arena hosted several movie shoots in the fall, and also partnered with one of their tenants, the Fraser Valley Thunderbirds hockey team, to host the Cohort Cup, which started in October.

The Cohort Cup featured some of the top U18, U16 and U15 talents from across the province, and the Thunderbirds invited five other organizations to compete in the tournament. Teams and age groups played on

“These types of events aren’t about making money for us,” Comeau said. “It’s us getting out in the community and trying to keep them engaged in what we have going on. I think it’s important for us to be looking at these types of virtual experiences right now.”

Comeau said he’s anticipating inviting the public back soon, and added that those in attendance will see more safety procedures implemented permanently. The building bought several electrostatic sprayers to help workers clean and disinfect more efficiently.

The AC is also looking into contactless ticket scanning for entry and the mobile ordering and payment for concession items.

“When we do reopen, it will look different Christian rock band Casting Crowns played to a crowd of more than 6,000 at Abbotsford Centre on Sept 29, 2019. than it did a year ago,” he said. “We want our (John Morrow/Abbotsford News) guests to come back and feel that it’s a safe venue to come into. But that first perfordifferent weekends, and all COVID-19 proto- tual experiences for locals to enjoy the fun mance – I just can’t wait for that to happen. cols were adhered to. of a big event in the comfort of their own I’m really excited for that day to come.” home. On Nov. 28, they offered an opporComeau said only two people involved The next scheduled event at the AC is the tunity to watch the popular 1989 holiday with the tournament tested positive for Iron Assassin’s Demolition Derby. That event COVID-19 and the virus was not transmitted movie National Lampoon’s Christmas Vais tentatively set for April 10, 2021. cation with stars Chevy Chase and Beverly or spread anywhere else after the positive Other upcoming events scheduled inD’Angelo. case was discovered. He said the tournaclude: Jeff Dunham (April 21), and ZZ Top ment was a success, but has been put on The AC is also offering a virtual improv and Cheap Trick (April 23). The Fraser Valley pause following the new restrictions involv- show from two of the stars of Whose Line Bandits pro basketball team is expected to ing sports in B.C. Is It Anyway. Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood host four unique shows via Zoom that host home dates beginning in May. The AC has also been offering several vir-

For up-to-date COVID-19 information please visit our website https://valleymedicalimaging.com/ valleymedicalimaging.com

X-RAY | ULTRASOUND | MAMMOGRAPHY FREE PARKING • COVERED BY MSP • SHORT WAIT TIMES • QUICK REPORT DELIVERY

604-855-0112

LANGLEY

604-534-4114

CHILLIWACK

#102-32475 Simon Ave, Abbotsford, BC V2T 5E3

#200-5503 206th Street, Langley, BC V3A 2C6

45731 Patten Avenue, Chilliwack, BC V2P 1S2

Walk-In X-Ray & Booked Ultrasound

Walk-In X-Ray, Booked Ultrasound & Mammography

Walk-In X-Ray

ABBOTSFORD

604-795-7205

OPEN WEEKDAYS. CLOSED STAT HOLIDAYS www.valleymedicalimaging.com

B24 Thursday, December 3, 2020

Abbotsford News

www.abbynews.com

Bandits guard Junior Cadougan goes up for a shot in the CEBL championship game back in August. (Submitted photo)

Love of the game Cascades women’s basketball players Deanna Tuchscherer and Maddy Gobeil, along with 2020 grad Taylor Claggett, all made the decision to continue the sport overseas. Tuchscherer will play in Hungary, Gobeil will compete in France and Claggett inked a deal with a team in Ireland.

Challenging 2020 for local athletes, teams and sports groups Delays, uncertainty and lack of opportunities to play and watch defines year The second of year of the Fraser Valley Bandits was supposed to be another building block for the club as it continued to establish itself in Abbotsford and the Lower Mainland.

We were really proud as a team to turn things around from last season and be in the finals.

It’s unfortunate we ran out of gas in the finals.”

Kyle Julius

A strong first year in the Canadian Elite Basketball League saw the club average close to 1,900 fans per game – the second highest in the league – and 2020 was supposed to grow that number.

But then COVID-19 happened, and it completely changed everything, including the plans for the Bandits, the CEBL and every others sports group in Abbotsford.

The original plans for the Bandits saw the club scheduled to tip off the 2020 CEBL season inside the Abbotsford Centre on May 8.

clubs gather in a single location in Ontario began in June, and plans were revealed to the public in early-July. The first-ever CEBL Summer Series saw all seven teams travel to St. Catharines, Ont. to play a six-game round robin and then playoff games.

quent COVID-19 testing procedures. Players were tested regularly before and after games, and the CEBL recorded zero positive cases during the Summer Series. From a medical standpoint, the Summer Series could only be considered a success.

But, equipped with a new head coach and general manager and only one returning player, preparing for the Summer Series during the pandemic proved to be both challenging and ultimately rewarding.

On the court the Bandits made an impressive turnaround, finishing second in the round robin at 4-2 and advancing to the CEBL title game, where they lost to the Edmonton Stingers.

Kyle Julius, the Bandits’ new head coach and general manager, thankfully had a lot of knowledge about the players he wanted to bring in, but getting them ready was a new experience.

“We were really proud as a team to turn things around from last season and be in the finals,” Julius said, following the loss.

“It’s unfortunate that we ran out of gas in the final, but I’m really fired up and looking forward to finding a way to get over that hump next year.”

“You don’t have a long training camp,” Julius said at the time. “And once you kind of realize the actual chronology of a schedule Over at the University of the Fraser Valley, Those plans were officially postponed that exists or doesn’t exist in this setting, it the pandemic saw the cancellation of virtuon April 15, when it was determined that became really important to me to sign guys ally all varsity sports and led to two current the season would be delayed until at least that I know, that I’ve had success with.” and one graduating women’s basketball June. One of the underlying issues the CEBL faced was that with four teams in Without playing on the court and quaran- player heading to the professional leagues in Europe to continue playing at a high Ontario, which saw a high number of cases, tining across the country, the Bandits staff level. non-essential travel to and from those had to find ways to begin adapting their areas was not recommended. preseason preparations. Not being in perGolf was the lone sport where athletes son was a major setback, so the team found competed, as UFV Cascades golfers particThe uncertainty continued for much of ipated in the eight-tournament BC Rivalry the spring, with a ban on public gatherings a way to innovate. Frequently checking in through video, text, and phone calls was Series after the Canada West golf champiof over 50 people in B.C. ruling out any the next best solution before arriving for a onships were cancelled on Sept. 22. The chance of the Bandits attracting as many short training camp in St. Catharines, Ont. series is scheduled to continue in 2021. fans as they did in 2019.

Rumblings of a tournament seeing all the

The other unique adjustment was the fre-

Continued on B25

Abbotsford News

www.abbynews.com

Thursday, December 3, 2020 B25

No-travel rules put the brakes on hockey

From B24

lots’ season was again postponed following a two-week health order in the Vancouver Coastal and Fraser Health regions that stopped the season on the evening of Nov. 7.

The story wasn’t quite so positive for baseball, basketball, rugby, soccer and wrestling, as it was determined on Oct. 15 that there would be no competition in 2020-21 for those sports.

More restrictions were then announced on Nov. 19, which restricted travel outside of the immediate community for any sports team. Those restrictions will remain in place until at least Dec. 7.

U Sports officials had considered and delayed making a decision, first cancelling all fall sports back in June before making the call to eliminate the possibility of sports for the season.

“The health and safety of our student-athletes, and those around them, has been paramount in this decision-making process,” said UFV director of athletics and campus recreation Steve Tuckwood following the October news. “Ultimately, this is another dose of difficult news for student-athletes amidst a trying year, and we empathize with them. Moving forward, we will look to build in-province exhibition schedules for our teams, following viaSport cohort guidelines and COVID-19 mitigation protocols.”

The no-travel rules also meant that rep or travel teams in the Abbotsford Minor Hockey Association – and teams such as the Yale Lions and the Fraser Valley Thunderbirds – cannot compete outside of Abbotsford.

Men’s recreational hockey teams were also unable to play outside of their local community.

The UFV Cascades golf team was the lone club to compete in the fall. (Submitted photo)

Cascades women’s basketball players Deanna Tuchscherer and Maddy Gobeil, along with 2020 grad Taylor Claggett, all made the decision to continue the sport overseas. Tuchscherer will play in Hungary, Gobeil will compete in France, and Claggett inked a deal with a team in Ireland.

Columbia Bible College Bearcats basketball and volleyball players are in the same boat as their crosstown rivals, as their Pacwest seasons were postponed and then officially cancelled on Nov. 18.

In the meantime, there is not a whole lot that the other UFV athletes can do besides train in a socially distanced setting and wait

The Abbotsford Pilots, who compete in the Pacific Junior Hockey League, have also been impacted heavily by the pandemic.

for 2021.

The regular season, which usually begins in September, was delayed and then plans were created to have teams compete in regional cohort groups of three. The Pilots were partnered with the Mission City Outlaws and the Chilliwack Jets.

Cohort action began for the league in mid-October, with the Pilots beginning play on Nov. 6, but after just two games the Pi-

The Abbotsford Soccer Association has been on a similar path as AMHA, with some games occurring earlier this year, but new restrictions have limited teams to only playing within Abbotsford and hosting practices.

High school football has also seen an entire season written off, but teams have been able to practise during the pandemic.

Golf is the one sport that has largely been unaffected by COVID-19, due to the individual nature of the sport and the fact that the game is outside. Local golf courses remained open throughout the pandemic, but promoted social distancing, increased sanitizing and closing the clubhouses.

Michele Cummins for your

As

Real Estate Needs!

hea

rd o

FM

n...

B26 Thursday, December 3, 2020

Reeling in movie money Filming in Abbotsford is big business, and productions that were halted due to the pandemic have resumed filming.

In 2019, 61 movies – many of them for the Hallmark Channel – were filmed over 176 days at 148 Abbotsford locations, resulting in an economic impact of almost $1.8 million.

Gallery 7 has also held virtual performances, including its annual short play festival Abby Theatre Fest in October and livestreamed readings of three plays.

Abbotsford News

www.abbynews.com

The Kariton Gallery normally holds several in-person exhibits each year, but has switched mainly online during the pandemic. (John Morrow/Abbotsford News)

Keeping local arts scene alive Cultural groups adapt during the pandemic, optimistic for the future Abbotsford’s arts community has found innovative ways to stay connected to the community during the COVID-19 pandemic.

photo archive, as well as remote research requests for materials and information. Visit thereach.ca for more information.

While the city’s music and art venues such as Abbotsford Centre and the Abbotsford Arts Centre remain closed to large events, local arts groups and organizations have found ways to keep the local cultural scene alive.

The Abbotsford Arts Council is also continuing to keep the arts community alive. The organization held its annual Anonymous Art Show online on Nov. 1, 2020, showcasing art by emerging artists and seasoned professionals. The pieces were displayed anonymously online and were each sold for $100, with half going to the artist and the other half to the arts council.

The 20,000-square-foot Reach Gallery Museum Abbotsford, which opened its doors in the fall of 2008 on Veterans Way, continues to offer exhibitions to the public, while following physical-distancing and enhanced-cleaning protocols.

edy Antigone in November.

Future productions include Pariah (The Outcast) in March and the Devised Theatre Showcase in April. Visit ufv.ca/theatre for more information.

Another important cultural organization is the Heritage Abbotsford Society (formerly the MSA Museum Society), whose focus is on interpreting and preserving Abbotsford’s fascinating heritage.

The society operates from Trethewey House Heritage Site at Mill Lake Park, and it maintains The organization has also put out a call for a sizable permanent artifact collection, as well artists to showcase their work in 2021, with as an educational artifact collection. The site potential for an in-person show at the Kariton remains open to visitors during the pandemThe number of patrons is limited in the galleries, and in-person public programming has Art Gallery, but mainly for work that lend ic, although only two visitors at a time are themselves to an online exhibition. Visit abbeen curtailed for the time being. permitted in indoor space and the upstairs is botsfordartscouncil.com for more information, currently closed.

Its exhibitions running through January including on any upcoming online programs.

2021 include Ever Elsewhere: Siting a MenVibrant local arts and culture organizaAnother local arts group that has adapted to tions that are currently taking a break but nonite Imagery, Our Living Languages: First the pandemic is Gallery 7 Theatre. The group Peoples’ Voice in British Columbia, and Art on hope to be up and running again in 2021 has offered several online courses, in subjects include: Demand 6.4. such as stage management and performing The Reach also offers several online prov Fraser Valley Stage, a non-profit theatre Shakespeare. grams, including virtual bookmaking and group; Gallery 7 has also held virtual performances, binding workshops, a virtual drawing course, a v the Valley Concert Society, which brings including its annual short play festival Abby virtual book club and Sunday Family Arts. classical music to life with a series of shows Theatre Fest in October and live-streamed The gallery, in partnership with the Abat Matsqui Centennial Auditorium; readings of three plays – Everyman, The botsford Arts Council, also offers The Reach Second Shepherd’s Play and Macbeth – in v the Valley Festival Singers, which present @Home (thereach.ca/athome), which brings November. Visit gallery7theatre.com for more concerts in the fall, at Christmas and the exhibitions, education programs and interacdetails about upcoming programs. spring; and tive activities to viewers through videos and The University of the Fraser Valley’s theatre v violinist Calvin Dyck’s Song Strings and digital content. department has also switched to online proSteps concert series, featuring the AbbotsAs well, The Reach also provides an online ductions, with a live-stream of the Greek trag- ford Youth Orchestra and others.

www.abbynews.com

Abbotsford News

Thursday, December 3, 2020 B27

PROUDLY SERVING ABBOTSFORD SINCE 2006

Committed to working hard to help Abbotsford businesses rebuild and our City rebound in 2021 MY ECONOMIC PRIORITIES FOR 2021:

Supporting relief for small businesses enabling them to build back stronger.

Advocating for critical investment in infrastructure to help create jobs in Abbotsford.

Hold the federal government accountable for its spending and call for fiscal responsibility and transparency.

205-2825 CLEARBROOK RD. /wwwAST .EDF ACA STA .CA ED.FAST@PARL.GC.CA EDFAST.CA Aht•tp:/ EDF EDFA A T. C 604-557-7888

http://edfast.ca/

B28 Thursday, December 3, 2020

Abbotsford News ADVERTISEMENT

www.abbynews.com