A 30-bed emergency shelter for older adults is being planned at Central Heights Church in Abbotsford.
The plan was slated to become before city council on Tuesday afternoon for consideration of a temporary-use permit and housing agreement, but the decision took place after press deadline.
A staff report to council states that 30 individual “sleeping units” would be provided in an existing building on the church property at 1661 McCallum Rd.
That area at the north end of the building has been operating by Sparrow Community Services Society as a severe weather shelter for older adults.
A letter to the city from BC Housing in September 2024 states that in order to accommodate the emergency shelter, the building will be renovated to include sufficient washroom and shower facilities, accessible entry and operator spaces.
The space is expected to be completed this winter.
The Central Heights Church Shelter will continue to be run by Sparrow – which serves older adults (50+) who are at risk of homelessness –under an agreement with BC Housing.
Support services would be provided 24/7 under the Homelessness Encampment Action Response Temporary Housing (HEARTH) and Homelessness Encampment Action Response Team (HEART) programs.
The staff report to council says a temporary-use permit is required to accommodate the proposed use as it abuts an existing residential use.
The permit would be valid for three years, with the opportunity to request one three-year extension.
The housing agreement includes that the op-
erators must form a good neighbour committee with monthly meetings for the first four months and then on an as-needed basis.
The operators must also provide support services – directly or through referrals – such as life-skills training, counselling and substance-use services.
They must also at least have two staff on site 24/7, and ensure that guests “do not disturb the peace, quiet and enjoyment of the neighbourhood.”
The project has drawn support from Fraser Health and the Abbotsford Police Department, which states that the current services offered at the site have required fewer police resources than comparable facilities.
The city says there are currently 40 encampments and more than 400 unhoused individuals across Abbotsford.
Vikki Hopes
Double homicide victims identified
Brandon Tucker
The two bodies found in a vehicle fire at Sumas Mountain Regional Park more than a month ago have now been identified by the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT).
The remains of 44-year-old Christopher Carter and 48-year-old Sandy Raposo were found in a 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander, which was engulfed in flames at the regional park on the afternoon of Jan. 3.
Emergency crews arrived on scene at 2:46 p.m. and extinguished the flames, at which point they discovered the victims.
While the identities of the victims have now been released, police have yet to reveal a motive or charge anyone related to this incident.
“This is an ongoing investigation and investigators have been actively following up on a number of leads,” said IHIT Sgt. Freda Fong.
“We believe there are individuals who know what happened to Chris and Sandy, and we are asking them to do the right thing by contacting IHIT. We are interested in speaking with anyone who may have been in contact with Chris and Sandy in the days leading up to their death.”
Raposo’s Facebook page indicates she was from Golden, B.C., and was living in Maple Ridge.
Carter’s Facebook page indicates he was from Sudbury, Ont., and was living in Chilliwack.
Anyone with information regarding the case is asked to contact IHIT at 1-877-551-4448 or ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.
Trial begins for man accused of killing Chelsey Gauthier
Gary Losch elects to be tried by judge alone in Supreme Court
Vikki Hopes
The trial began Tuesday (Feb. 25) for a Mission man accused of killing Chelsey Gauthier of Abbotsford in 2017.
Gary Losch, 69, is on trial in B.C. Supreme Court in Abbotsford for second-degree murder and interference with human remains.
The proceedings are scheduled for 64 days, and Losch has been elected to be tried by judge alone.
Gauthier, 22, was reported
missing in July 2017, after having last been seen at the McDonald’s restaurant at Bourquin Crescent West and South Fraser Way in Abbotsford on July 27.
Her body was found Aug. 16 of that year in an isolated area of Mission near Sylvester Road and Dale Road.
The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team reported that her death was “consistent with homicide.”
The BC Coroners Service
later released that Gauthier had died from a stab wound to her torso and that her body had been located in a shallow grave.
The report stated that Gauthier was last known to be alive in the evening hours of July 27, 2017, near the area where her body was recovered.
Losch was charged in September 2022.
Gauthier was the mom of two daughters, who were ages 3 and 2, when she was killed.
Sandy Raposo (left) and Christopher Carter were found in a vehicle fire at Sumas Mountain Regional Park on Jan. 3. (Special to The Abbotsford News)
Chelsey Gauthier of Abbotsford was killed in 2017, and her body was found in Mission. The trial is now underway for the man accused of her killing. (Contributed)
Gary Losch is on trial for the 2017 murder of Chelsey Gauthier, 22, of Abbotsford.
Police release footage of scene of pedestrian collision
The Abbotsford Police Department (APD) has released video of the seconds before a pedestrian was hit by a car in December, in hopes of finding witnesses.
The collision took place Dec. 13, at 11:11 a.m., in the intersection of Townline and Upper Maclure roads. The 20-yearold male pedestrian, who was
using the crosswalk at the time, suffered life-threatening injuries and was transported to hospital by air ambulance.
The driver was uninjured and remained on scene.
Video of the scene released Tuesday (Feb. 25) shows the pedestrian proceeding along the crosswalk on Upper Maclure Road. He is a few feet into the intersection when
the footage stops just before he is struck by 2007 Dodge Caravan.
“AbbyPD is releasing video footage from the scene in hopes of gathering additional information and identifying further witnesses,” police said.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the APD’s general investigation section at 604-859-5225.
has been notified after a collision involving an Abbotsford police vehicle and a civilian vehicle last Thursday, Feb. 20.
Driver suffers serious injuries in collision with police
Abbotsford News Staff
A civilian driver was airlifted to hospital with serious injuries after a collision with an Abbotsford Police vehicle last Thursday (Feb. 20).
B.C.’s police watchdog – the Independent Investigations Office (IIO) – has been notified of the crash.
According to a news release from the Abbotsford Police Department (APD), the crash occurred at 4:05 p.m. at the intersection of King Road and Gladwin Road.
Police say the APD vehicle was driving on King Road
and the collision occurred with a GMC Envoy as it approached the intersection. The two police officers were taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
“Impairment is being considered a factor in this collision involving the civilian driver,” the news release stated.
IIO said in a news release that the police vehicle was engaged in an unrelated investigation at the time of the crash.
“The IIO was notified of the incident shortly after it
occurred and initial investigative steps will seek to determine the extent of the driver’s injuries and the events surrounding the collision,” IIO said.
Police say the APD major crime unit, the Integrated Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Service (ICARS), and other officers are investigating the incident. Those with information or dash-cam footage can contact Abbotsford police at 604-8595225 and IIO at 1-855-4468477 or via the contact form at the iiobc.ca.
Vikki Hopes
Footage was released Tuesday (Feb. 25) by the Abbotsford Police Department of the scene of a pedestrian collision on Dec. 13. (Screenshot from video)
B.C.’s police watchdog
(Shane MacKichan photo)
B.C. Conservatives deny rift after 5 MLAs vote against anti-Trump motion
Conservative Party of B.C.
Leader John Rustad acknowledged divisions within his party, but denies their significance after five members of his caucus voted against a motion, which at least one Conservative called a trap.
“I’ll put it this way, what family in this province doesn’t have issues or divisions in it?” Rustad said Tuesday morning (Feb. 25), when asked about the motion.
“The question is…what unites us, not what divides us in terms of these issues and I can tell you what unites us. We look at what’s going on in this province and and we say we need change.
“This government has been misspending money. They have been reckless. They have been destroying our economy.”
Rustad added that the party ran on allowing MLAs more freedom, but also acknowledged that the party has gone through growing pains.
Rustad’s comments come after five members of his party – Tara Armstrong (Kelowna-Lake Country-Coldstream), Dallas Brodie (Vancouver-Quilchena), Brent Chapman (Surrey-South), Jordan Kealy (Peace River-North) and Heather Maahs (Chilliwack-North) – Monday night voted against a motion tabled by the B.C. NDP condemning tariffs.
The motion tabled during private member’s time calls on the legislature to condemn proposed tariffs as U.S. President Donald Trump “as wrong
and unjustified”measures that threaten Canadian sovereignty.
The motion also called on MLAs to endorse the socalled “Team Canada” plan to respond to future tariffs with “proportionate retaliatory action,” including strategically targeting industries and regions such as products from Republican states, to maximize pressure to deter President Trump from implementing or continuing tariffs.
The tabled motion passed 86-5.
Conservative MLA Bruce Banman, MLA Abbotsford South and his party’s whip, said he did not like the bill “because it was a trap” but defended the votes of the five MLAs.
“So what you saw for the first time in a long time was MLAs voted with their conscience and were given the right to vote the way they wanted,”Banman said. “There is no fracture. What people at home want when they vote for an MLA, they don’t want that MLA to be a bobbling, parroting head like what’s happening with the NDP. What they want want is their MLA to be able to speak on behalf of issues that are important to them.”
Banman added that media would have to get used to the fact of Conservative MLAs not always agreeing with their leadership.
Kealy acknowledged that “it was a loaded motion that was brought forward by the NDP to…divide people’s perspective” but defended his vote
by pointing to the economic effects of tariffs including retaliatory tariffs. He also questioned the sincerity of the NDP’s motion. “I’m tired of the games that we see in politics and the political jargon that people are getting tired of seeing and hearing,” Kealy said. “I’m a farmer and mechanic and I speak my mind and I am genuine about what I say. When it came to that vote, I didn’t like how it was and I called them out...in my comment on that motion.”
Kealy said the motion deflected off the major problems currently facing B.C.
“Trump is a different kind of politician,” Kealy said. “He’s not normal and we need a leader that to actually be able to negotiate with him properl…I think right now, we need to focus on diplomacy and make our costs of living lower.”
Chapman said the first part of the motion was appropriate, but disagreed with language going after Republican states because it could put B.C. into Trump’s focus. “I don’t think we are ready to to have it where he could single out British Columbia and punish us even harder. We have enough problems here already.”
Maahs, meanwhile, rejected suggestions that Rustad is facing a revolt within his party.
“Absolutely not,” she said. “That’s insane. We all stand on the same truths, the common sense goals that we all ran for, that we were all elected for. We are solid. I am telling you – we are solid.”
Conservative MLA Heather Maahs, MLA for Chilliwack-North, said her vote against an anti-tariff motion denied the existence of a rift with her party. She was one of five Conservative MLAs that voted against the NDP government motion condemning the tariffs. (Wolf Depner/News Staff)
It has been 50 years since Captain Canuck first hit the shelves of comic book stores across Canada, proudly displaying the iconic Maple Leaf emblem on his forehead as he endeavoured to keep serious crime out of his beloved homeland.
One of the creative masterminds behind this classic superhero is artist and writer Richard Comely, who now resides in Abbotsford.
To celebrate this milestone achievement, Comely attended the Fan Expo event in Vancouver on Feb. 21 and 22 – alongside Lev Gleason Publishing CEO Fadi Hakim, who purchased the rights to Captain Canuck last year – where attendees were able to get copies of the new variant cover featuring Captain Canuck going toe-to-toe with Donald Trump.
“Captain Canuck is saying what many Canadians want Trump to understand. No, we don’t want to be the 51st state,” Comely said. “Canadians are not happy and we are very puzzled with Trump’s actions and attitude towards our country.
“Hence the wagging finger.”
It’s these Canadian values that Captain Canuck has represented ever since he was
first created in 1975, Comely explained.
“Nationalistic superheroes like Captain Canuck offer a
sense of exclusivity. Many Canadians feel that they have their own superhero in Captain Canuck,” he said.
“Back in 1975, I got a letter from a reader who wrote, ‘We got our own baseball team (Montreal Expos) and we just
got our own superhero.
“Now it feels like we are a real country!’ Captain Canuck has been considered the ideal-
istic representation of a heroic figure dedicated to Canada.”
Over the past 50 years, the character has undergone many changes, with three different men taking up the mantle of Captain Canuck. A shortlived animated web series also brought the superhero to life in 2013.
Captain Canuck has expanded far beyond the Canadian borders, even making it onto the cover of Time magazine in 1997.
Americans have actually been a consistently large supporter of the Canadian superhero, with 75 per cent of Captain Canuck comic sales taking place in the U.S. In honour of five decades of Captain Canuck’s adventures, Comely is once again teaming up with some previous Captain Canuck collaborators –George Freeman and Claude St. Aubin – to create a special 50th-anniversary edition of the beloved comic.
“I am looking forward to this unfolding,” Comely said.
Part of Captain Canuck’s historic journey will soon include animated and live-action shows, which are currently being developed in partnership with Lev Gleason Studios and other production companies.
from the warmth of friendship and community at a Chartwell residence, as well as delicious chef-prepared meals, engaging activities and entertainment, housekeeping and transportation services, and flexible options if your needs change.
a tour today!
Richard Comely first created the Captain Canuck comic book in 1975. (Richard Comely photo)
Jules Côté nominated as NDP candidate for MissionMatsqui-Abbotsford
A local resident who is a student at University of the Fraser Valley has been nominated as the federal NDP candidate for the new riding of Mission-Matsqui-Abbotsford.
Jules Côté was born and raised in Abbotsford, next to the former Cooper Farm on McMillan Road, which is the current site of a large housing development.
She is a member of the National Farmers Union and has volunteered with various organizations, including the food bank, the Starfish Pack Program and her church.
“I’ve seen it firsthand – too many folks working harder than ever, yet falling further behind. It’s not because they aren’t trying. It’s because power has been concentrated in the hands of a few corporations,” she said.
Côté said five companies control 80 per cent of the groceries that Canadians buy, four handle 88 per cent of our wheat, and two corporations make 80 per cent of our bread.
“And it’s not just our bread; it’s pork, poultry, beef, farm equipment, tools, seeds and fertilizer – all controlled by a few corporations that are squeezing families and farmers alike.”
Côté said in the last 20 years,
57,000 family farms and almost 15 million acres of farmland have been lost across Canada and replaced with “giant agri-businesses that put profits over people.”
She said one-quarter of B.C.’s housing is corporate-owned, including 16 per cent of houses, 36 per cent of condos and almost half of all rentals.
“And when corporate landlords own the homes we live in, rent goes up, evictions go up and working people get squeezed out,” she said.
“But here’s the thing. This country wasn’t built by corpo-
rations, billionaires or speculators. It was built by working people, farmers and factory workers, nurses and teachers, small business owners and everyday folks.
“And it’s about time this country started working for them again.”
The current riding of Mission-Matsqui-Fraser Canyon is held by the Conservatives’Brad Vis, who is seeking re-election in the new riding.
The next federal election must take place by Oct. 20 of this year, but it is expected to be called before then.
A pair of 18-year-olds were arrested on Feb. 14 in Abbotsford possessing an airsoft handgun and two additional weapons,
say.
Police Department photo)
Police arrest 2 teens passing around airsoft handgun
online.
Police received multiple reports of teenagers passing around the airsoft handgun in a business’s parking lot on South Fraser Way at roughly 2:20 p.m. on Feb. 14.
APD found the youths and arrested them without incident near the Denny’s on Simon Avenue.
The news release stated that , an airsoft handgun was found along with two additional weapons.
police
(Abbotsford
Jules Côté has been nominated as the federal NDP candidate for the new riding of Mission-Matsqui-Abbotsford. (Contributed)
viewpoint
ABBOTSFORD NEWS I THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2024
Displaying a symbol of Canadian pride
Canada’s national flag recognized worldwide as a symbol of this country, is on display in a new wave of national pride and patriotism.
Recently, in advance of Flag Day on Feb. 15, five former prime ministers – Joe Clark, Kim Campbell, Jean Chrétien, Paul Martin and Stephen Harper –urged Canadians to fly the flag.
“Let’s show the world that we are proud of our history and proud of our country,” said a statement from the former prime ministers.
The five former prime ministers include Liberals and Conservatives, who did not always agree with each other in policy or direction. Still, they have been able to unite behind the Canadian flag. Their recent call for displaying the flag is part of a renewed wave of Canadian pride and patriotism.
This is happening as a result of U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat of tariffs on Canadian goods entering his country, and also in response to Trump’s increasingly frequent comments about making Canada a U.S. state.
In response, Canadians have been showing their support for this country. There are renewed efforts to buy from Canadian companies and businesses,
as well as a renewed celebration of Canada and its traditions and values.
The maple leaf flag was first flown on Feb. 15, 1965, and each year, the day is designated as Flag Day in Canada.
While the maple leaf had been associated with Canada in the past, the present flag is a made-in-Canada design and is easily recognizable in Canada and around the world.
When the flag was first flown, Prime Minister Lester Pearson spoke of the values the flag represented.
“May the land over which this new flag flies remain united in freedom and justice…sensitive, tolerant and compassionate towards all,” he said at the time.
This is the message of the flag. It is not a protest symbol or a banner to be flown for a special cause. It is a symbol for all who live in Canada, regardless of their backgrounds, beliefs, sexuality or opinions. It is a flag for everyone in this country. And it is to be displayed with dignity and respect for what it represents.
The recent call to fly the flag echoes some of Pearson’s sentiments. Canada’s values and character are worth embracing. They deserve to be displayed for all to see.
– Black Press
National pride shows at the checkout counters
John Arendt
Be Our Guest
These days, when I’m out grocery shopping, the process takes longer than it did in the past. In addition to checking prices, ingredients and nutrition labels – things I’ve watched for many years – I’m now paying careful attention to where the food comes from. I’m looking to buy foods and other items from Canada, preferably from here in British Columbia, whenever possible.
Elsewhere I’m looking for Canadian products and services, or international brands manufactured in Canada.
I’m not alone in this quest.
There are groups on social media where people are recommending Canadian or non-U.S.
brands instead of the more common American brand names.
A number of apps have been developed for smartphones, allowing customers to scan a barcode to determine where a product was made.
O SCANada and Shop Canadian were both launched in early February. Proudly Buying Canadian was updated in February to provide more detailed information about which items are Canadian-made and which are assembled in Canada using foreign parts. Canadian Finder (Otto) was also introduced this year.
Grocery stores and other retailers are also getting involved. Stores are displaying signs around certain items to show they are made in Canada or products of Canada. And there are signs explaining what these two terms mean.
Something labelled as Product of Canada must have at least 98 per cent of the total direct cost of manufacturing incurred within Canada, while something labelled Made in Canada must meet a threshold of at least 51 per cent, under federal law.
What is happening in Canada today is unlike previous consumer actions. Earlier, many boycott initiatives and calls to shop locally tended to be short-lived, often fizzling out within days.
This time, the effort to buy Canadian is continuing.
The difference is because of something affecting Canada at a national and international level.
At the end of last year and continuing into this year, the U.S. president has made repeated comments about bringing in Canada as the 51st American state. These are not jokes, and many Canadians are repulsed by the idea.
Then, when the U.S. president spoke of implementing heavy tariffs of Canadian goods, things became more serious. Canadian leaders have promised retaliatory tariffs in response, which would result in a tariff war between the two countries.
The tariffs have not yet been implemented, but the proposal at present would mean a rate of 25 per cent for items Canada imports from
Reporters: Vikki Hopes
Ben Lypka
Brandon Tucker
the U.S. The U.S. tariffs are similar, but with a lower tariff on fuels and crude oil.
For Canadians, this means American goods could soon become a lot more expensive. It would be easy to hold on to past shopping patterns until tariffs take place, but many shoppers are taking action now, even though there is no financial benefit to doing so.
The concept of shopping for Canadian products and services is something that matters to many.
Instead of feeling downtrodden and disheartened as a result of the ongoing insults and tariff threats from the U.S., Canadians are choosing to embrace this country like never before.
The action among shoppers demonstrates that they do not want to see Canada as an extension of the U.S. This country has its own unique identity, one cherished by many.
One place where this renewed national pride is showing itself is at the store checkout counters. John Arendt is the editor of the Summerland Review.
Media Consultants: Anne Williams
Kristina Anderson
Larry Krause
Published by Black Press Ltd. 2860 Trethewey Street,Abbotsford. B.C.
Carlos Ruiz Checa sent us this striking photo taken from the balcony in Clearbrook recently. If you have
Abbotsford that you would
Camera” in the subject line.
Pacific International Judo Tournament returns
For the third consecutive year, the Pacific International Judo Tournament will take over Abbotsford’s Ag-Rec Centre.
The 2025 edition of the event runs from Feb. 28 to March 2, with a training camp following the competition.
Age divisions participating in the event include: U10, U12, U14, U16, U18, U21, senior, veterans
and kata.
Hundreds of athletes are expected to compete and the event is being hosted by the Abbotsford Judo Club and Judo BC.
The tournament debuted in Abbotsford in 2023 and has now returned twice.
The Judo Canada points tournament is an important selection tournament for athletes who wish to compete at the 2025 Canadian
The Kariton Art Gallery is one of two venues set to host the Women in Art exhibition from March 1 to 29.
Women in Art exhibition at two venues
The show takes place at two venues – Open Space (33765 Essendene Ave.) and the
Art Gallery (2387 Ware St.) – from March 1 to 29.
The official opening of the Open Space exhibit is on Saturday, March 1, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The Kariton opening is on Saturday, March 8, 12-2 p.m.
The arts council invited those who identify as women to showcase their talents in the unique exhibition. The artists were given full creative control as they were able to choose the medium and subject and to create without any boundaries or guidelines.
Visit abbotsfordartscouncil.com for more information.
Open Nationals.
The event was previously held at the Richmond Olympic Oval and the Steveston Community Centre in years past.
The AJC recently announced that they are still looking for volunteers for the event and encourage those interested to sign up and help out.
For more information, visit judobc.ca/pacific-international.
Ben Lypka
Notice of Council Consideration Regarding Amendments to the Abbotsford Zoning Bylaw, 2014
In accordance with the Local Government Act, Abbotsford City Council will hold a Council Meeting to consider the following bylaws on the date, time and location noted below. This meeting will be streamed live and archived on the City’s website at abbotsford.ca/watchcouncilonline
Council Meeting
Date/Time/Location
Tuesday, March 11th at 3:00pm
Location:
Matsqui Centennial Auditorium (MCA) 32315 South Fraser Way, Abbotsford, BC
Reference
• 1730 Foy Street (PRJ21-043)
• 2743 Emerson Street (PRJ23-126)
• 33704 Lincoln Road (PRJ23-040)
• 1974 Horizon St, 33383 and 33391 Holland Ave, 33404, 33414, 33424, 33430 Marshall Road (PRJ24-056)
The proposed bylaws and related reports will be available online, on the Friday prior to the scheduled meeting. Please follow the Report URL noted below on each file summary. Alternatively, hard copies will be available at Planning & Development Services on the 2nd floor, City Hall, 32315 South Fraser Way between the hours of 8:30am and 4:30pm, Monday to Friday (excluding Statutory Holidays).
If you have any questions, please contact Planning Services Staff at 604-864-5510 or planning-info@abbotsford.ca
SUBJECT LAND: 1730 Foy Street
FILE NUMBER: PRJ21-043
CURRENT ZONING: Agricultural One Zone (A1) and Special Industrial Zone (I5)
PROPOSED ZONING: General Industrial Zone (I2) and Special Industrial Zone (I5)
PURPOSE: If Bylaw No. 3595-2025 is adopted, the applicant proposes to rezone a portion of the property to facilitate a four-lot subdivision for future industrial development. REPORT URL: www.abbotsford.ca/PDS029-2025
CITY PAGE
FEBRUARY
SUBJECT LAND: 2743 Emerson Street
FILE NUMBER: PRJ23-126
CURRENT ZONING: Service Commercial Zone (C4)
PROPOSED ZONING: City Centre Residential Zone (RMC)
PURPOSE: If Bylaw No. 3610-2025 is adopted, the applicant proposes to construct a six storey apartment building with commercial uses on the ground floor.
REPORT URL: www.abbotsford.ca/PDS048-2025
SUBJECT LAND: 33704 Lincoln Road
FILE NUMBER: PRJ23-040
CURRENT ZONING: Urban Residential Zone, Infill (RS3-i)
PROPOSED ZONING: Infill Residential Zone (RS7)
PURPOSE: If Bylaw No. 3614-2025 is adopted, the applicant proposes to facilitate a two-lot subdivision.
Councilmeetingswillbestreamedliveandarchived at abbotsford.ca/watchcouncilonline. Toviewagendas,visit abbotsford.ca/ams.
Make a Difference Sale raises funds for Foodgrains Bank
Vikki Hopes
The annual Make a Difference Sale in Abbotsford returns as an online auction from March 8 to 12 to raise money for the Canadian Foodgrains Bank (CFB).
As part of the event, a casual drop-in luncheon takes place Thursday, March 13, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., at New Life Church, 35270 DeLair Rd.
The Make a Difference Sale was held for several years at Abby Stockyards on McClary Avenue, but it moved online in 2021, raising $348,000 for world hunger. The 2024 event raised a record $430,000 in support of food security in Africa.
The online auction at givergy. ca/MakeaDifferenceSale opens at 6 p.m., Saturday, March 8, and closes at 8 p.m., Wednes-
day, March 12.
Among the items up for auction will be cattle, gift baskets, new tools, wheels of artisan cheeses, livestock feed/accessories and much more.
Pickup of all won items is at the luncheon on March 13, between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
A preview of some of the action items leading up to the online event will be shown on the @makeadifferencesale Instagram page.
Funds raised during the auction are typically matched by the federal government, and this year the auction raises money for the CFB Nature + program.
The program works directly with 75,000 men and women living in rural areas of Ethiopia, Kenya, Mozambique and Zimbabwe to transform land
for long-term food security.
The multi-year program is focused on regions with high vulnerability to the impacts of climate change, land degradation, and hunger and poverty.
The program involves 12 locally based partners with support from nine member agencies.
Anyone wanting to donate livestock or other sellable merchandise to the auction must do so by Saturday, March 1.
Donations of cash and proceeds might be eligible for a charitable donation receipt from Canadian Foodgrains Bank.
To donate an item or to advertise on the auction website, email brandsma.rob@gmail. com or bogob@shaw.ca or call Rob at 604-834-4435 or Bob at 604-855-8016.
Bob Brandsma is one of the organizers of the Make a Difference Sale in Abbotsford. This year’s online auction runs from March 8 to 12. (Contributed)
Earlybird RV Show
2B Ventures wins 2025 Best of Houzz award
Abbotsford’s 2B Ventures interior design firm has earned a 2025 Best of Houzz award for customer service.
2B Ventures, founded by Bob and Sandy Blue, has been serving clients since 1997.
The 28-year-old interior design firm was chosen by the millions of homeowners and design enthusiasts that comprise the Houzz community.
“We’re particularly honoured to receive this prestigious award because it is based entirely on feedback from our clients and vendors,” stated Sandy Blue, owner and lead designer. “We strive for excel-
lence in all we do and being awarded Best of Houzz for the fifth year running tells me we’re doing just that.”
Best of Houzz awards are given annually, in three categories: design, customer Service and photography. Design awards honour professionals whose work was the most popular among the Houzz community.
Customer Service honours are based on several factors, including a pro’s overall rating on Houzz and client reviews submitted in 2024.
Best of Houzz 2025 badges appear on winners’ profiles as
a sign of their commitment to excellence. These badges help Houzz users to identify popular and top-rated home professionals for their projects.
“Best of Houzz award winners exemplify the highest levels of design, quality and customer satisfaction,” said Liza Hausman, vice-president of industry marketing for Houzz.
“This recognition honours professionals doing residential projects whose exceptional work inspires confidence and trust among homeowners, with many using Houzz Pro software to help deliver a stand-out client experience.”
Youth commission launches new volunteer program
The Abbotsford Youth Commission (AYC) has launched a new leadership and volunteering program.
The program, called Involved, is designed to connect youth with meaningful volunteer experiences while helping local non-profits find dedicated young volunteers.
Youth ages 12 to 18 can sign up to receive volunteer opportunities tailored to their interests and availability.
Non-profits can also register to access a growing database of youth eager to give back to their community.
The project is supported through the Doane Grant Thornton Foundation.
Opportunities range from one-time events to ongoing commitments, and AYC will also host guided volunteer experiences where youth workers accompany groups of up to 30 youth participants.
AYC executive director Bev Olfert said these experiences will provide extra support, especially for younger volunteers or those new to volunteering.
“We frequently hear from students looking for volunteer hours and non-profits in need of volunteers. Involved bridges this gap while also cul-
tivating leadership skills and a strong sense of community among Abbotsford’s youth,” she said.
Youth can register at abbyyouth.com/involved to join the volunteer mailing list. Non-profits seeking volunteers can register at abbyyouth. com/involved-org.
The new Abbotsford Youth Commission volunteer program is called Involved for youth ages 12 to 18. (Abbotsford Youth Commission photo)
Abbotsford’s Sandy Blue and 2B Ventures interior design firm recently took home a top industry award. (Robyn Bessenger photo)
Yale Secondary students took part in the school’s annual Live to Give fundraiser on Friday. The event ran from 6 p.m. to midnight, as students moved through the school to a number of stations that included glow-in-the dark tag, mini golf, food, carnival games and more. The event raised $16,000 for the BC Children’s Hospital Foundation. (John Morrow photos/Abbotsford News)
Concert celebrates 500 years of Anabaptist history
Abbotsford News Staff
The Mennonite Historical Society of BC (MHSBC) presents a concert in Abbotsford on Saturday, March 1, to mark 500 years of Anabaptist history.
Under the direction of Calvin Dyck and Ben Ewert, the event is a celebration of both heritage and artistry.
A 70-voice choir and a 42-piece orchestra will take to the stage to perform an array of timeless pieces, including the Mennonite Piano Concerto, dramatic excerpts from Mendelssohn’s Elijah
and Reformation Symphony, and the majestic Bach Christmas Oratorio.
The afternoon will feature Paul Williamson, one of the Fraser Valley’s top pianists and a current doctoral candidate at Northwestern University in Chicago, as the soloist for the Mennonite Piano Concerto.
This piece, rich with beloved kernlieder – hymn melodies beloved by Mennonites – holds deep historical significance, particularly the poignant second movement Wehrlos und Verlassen, the
hymn sung by Mennonites as they boarded trains to flee the Soviet Union in the 1920s.
Commissioned by the B.B. Fast Foundation in 1975 to commemorate 450 years of Anabaptist history, this concerto has become a cherished work within the Mennonite community.
Directed by Ben Ewert, the combined choirs from Trinity Western University and Masterworks Choir will also perform new orchestral arrangements, including Larry Nickel’s Melodies of
Molotschna, David Squires’ Exalted and a specially commissioned arrangement of Now Thank We All Our God by Mel Bowker. MHSBC president Richard Thiessen will share reflections on Anabaptist history. The concert takes place at 3:30 p.m. at Central Heights Church (1661 McCallum Rd.) and will serve as a fundraiser for the Mennonite Historical Society. Tickets are $35 in advance at calvindyck.com/concerts or by calling 604-853-6177. Tickets at the door are $40.
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VYPER –VisionaryYouth Peers for Equityand Revitalization
The Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation and the Abbotsford Division of Family Practice will host Health Talks 101: A Day of Medical Enlightenment on Saturday, March 8.
• Dr. Shahana Alibhai, a family physician at Foundry and author specializing in emotional health, offering advice on mental well-being and coping strategies;
ocular disease, pediatrics, and primary care, sharing insights into maintaining optimal eye health and the critical role of optometry.
TydelFoods
YoungGunsWeightlifting&Boxing Club
YoungGuns Weightlifting& Boxing Club
The free public information forum starts at 8 a.m. at Garden Park Tower, 2825 Clearbrook Rd.
It includes information on various aspects of health and well-being delivered by medical professionals.
Speakers will include:
• representatives from the Primary Care Network on how this collaborative network of family physicians and health-care professionals works to provide patients with comprehensive and coordinated care; and
• Dr. Harbir Sian, an optometrist with expertise in
The day also features information on HPV prevention and early detection, emphasizing the importance of proactive health measures.
Seating is limited, so early registration is highly encouraged at fvhcf.ca/healthtalks. A light lunch will be provided for all attendees.
Pianist Paul Williamson is the featured soloist at a concert in Abbotsford on March 1 that celebrates 500 years of Anabaptist history. (Contributed)
A free public forum titled Health Talks 101: A Day of Medical Enlightenment will be held March 8 in Abbotsford. (Pixabay photo)
Universityeducationhasbeen a major part of Afia Raja’s life for more than a quarter of a century now, with the UFV professor using her many years of experience as an undergrad and graduate student to help better prepare her own students for the outside world.
Afia Raja helped create the first urban planning degree program at UFV
Raja first enrolled in university in 1998whenshepursuedanundergraduate degree in urban planning in her home country of Pakistan.
Shefollowedthisupwithamaster’s degreeinarchitecture,whichshecompleted while also starting her position asalecturer,markingthebeginningof her teaching career.
“I enjoyed working with my students and the flexibility that you get with teaching,” Raja said.
Eventually, her education took her across the sea, with Raja getting into theFulbrightProgram,whichallowed her to attend Texas A&M University to obtain a PhD in urban and regional science.
After a few years of teaching in both Pakistan and the United States, Raja moved to Canada in 2019 and took a position at the University of the Fraser Valley in the School of LandUseandEnvironmentalChange, which has since been renamed to the department of Planning, Geography, and Environmental Studies.
Moving her way up from assistant professor to department head, Raja
has used her many experiences as a university student to help guide how shehelpseachofherstudentsatUFV.
“I did concentrate a lot on the personality traits of all my professors,” Raja said.
“Because, in my opinion, it has to be value-driven. If somebody is spending time with you in your class, then it shouldn’t be the same person leaving your class. There has to be some value added, which is what we are being paid for. If we are not doing that, then there is probably no use for you to be in teaching, because studentsarethereforyourmentoring,for gaining knowledge, and for gaining skills from you.”
One of the ways she has helped create this value for her students is by consistently introducing real-world elements into her teachings and not just relying on theoretical lessons.
As part of this teaching philosophy, she has led countless students to the bi-annual Hubbub events at Abbotsford City Hall, which have groups of UFV students showcase special projects to city staff and other community members for a chance to win an award.
“When they are interacting with people, they learn a lot,” Raja said.
“Preparingthemforwhatiscoming out in the field is the final goal.”
This tactic has had many positive tangibleimpactsonherstudents,such as Elena Van Buschbach, who nomi-
natedRajaasaHeroinEducationand explained that it was through Raja’s uniqueteachingmethodsthatshewas able to make significant leaps in her young career.
“Her mentorship has equipped students, including myself, with the skills and confidence to network with industry professionals, community leaders, and peers,” Van Buschbach said.“Inmycase,thisencouragement and support motivated me to pursue and accept a co-op position with the CityofAbbotsford–astepImightnot have taken without her guidance and theconfidencebuiltthroughexperiential learning.”
Through her years at UFV, one of Raja’s proudest accomplishments has been the creation of the Bachelor of Community and Regional Planning program, which makes the Abbotsford university one of only a handful of schools across Canada with an accredited urban planning program.
“We started the degree, and we were expecting that in the first term, wewouldseearound10to12students getting registered into planning,” she said. “It was a flying start, with 45 students registering for the degree.”
As the head of the Planning, Geography, and Environmental Studies department, Raja plans on continuing to develop students into young professionals armed with plenty of realworld experience when they graduate from UFV.
According to her nominators, Ecole Centennial Park Elementary (CPARK) educator Danielle Petrie is “the glue that holds us together.”
CPARK educator Danielle Petrie just wants school to succeed
It’s high praise indeed, but one look at the nomination letter sent by Madison Algard and Barbara Lafresnaye for the 2025 Heroes in Education, and you quickly understand they’re not kidding around.
Petrie, a Library Learning Commons teacher and an English Language Learning teacher, has managed to insert herself completely into the very fabric of life at Centennial.
“No matter who you are at CPARK, you can always count on Danielle to welcome you with a friendly smile, a hug, words of encouragement, a shoulder to cry on, an objective and active ear, an uplifting story, a treat, or anything else that you might need,” said Algard. “She welcomes newcomers to the school with her friendly demeanour,openarmsandaguided tour if that’s what they need.”
For Petrie, teaching is simply in the blood. Her mother, cousins and aunts are all educators.
“I’vealwayslovedchildren,”she said. “I was always the babysitter when I was young. It has always
felt comfortable and natural.”
Petrie started her career back in 1999atCentralElementaryinChilliwack. Raising four children, one of whom is autistic, meant Petrie decidedtoworkasateacheroncall for many years. She came back full time in 2017 to CPARK where all her children once attended.
“I love this school so much,” she said with pride. “I just want it to succeed.”
For Lafresnaye, it’s Petrie’s dedication to CPARK that sets her apart.
“When it comes to student success and team collaboration, Danielle recognizes the hard work and dedication to students fellow teachers and Educational Assistants demonstrate regularly,” she said. “She acknowledges that we are all there to support students and provide them with a platform to be the best version of themselves.”
And kids, simply being themselves, goes to the very heart of who Petrie is as both a person and as an educator.
“I’m super blessed to be in this position,” she said. “The connections to the kids; I like to hear their stories. I like creating a nice place for them because I like to listen.
“They are so entertaining.”
But the students are just one
part of why Petrie adores her time at CPARK. Her colleagues make comingtoworkeachdayatruejoy.
“I love the staff here,” she said.
“From the Christmas concerts to everything we do here at CPARK, we love to have fun together. I love that family feeling.”
Her nominators call it the “Petrie flair”andsheaddsittoeveryschool event from Halloween, Book Fairs, Pink Shirt Days, Sports Days to enhance the school environment.
But if you ask Petrie that all comesfromadifferentsource–her colleagues.
“It’s not me,” she said. “I’m a reflectionofthepeopleIworkwith. The staff here are such diverse learners. It makes you want to match their level of achievement.”
Petrie is also a big fan of CPARK’s dual track program of both French and English classes.
She says both sides do many things together and it adds to school spirit. “I love it when I see kids outside of the school. There are just such good, great humans here. It’s like my family here.”
While she is a few years away from retirement, Petrie is looking forward to spending her golden yearswithherfirefightinghusband, a member of Abbotsford Fire Rescue Service.
Story by Ken Goudswaard • Photos by John Morrow
Gill always brings positive energy
The custodian could be considered one of the unsung heroes at any public school.
Theycleanupmesses,areanearfor students and staff and help keep the school environment safe for everyone.
Satvinder Gill is a favourite of students at Chief Dan George Middle School
For Chief Dan George Middle School custodian Satvinder Gill, the custodian role is her life and she said the bond she has with her students is special.
A CDGMS student nominated her to be featured in our section and Gillsaidtheacknowledgementboth surprised her and warmed her heart.
“I was shocked,” she said, laughing. “But it was a happy and nice surprise. Now I feel like – oh definitely they appreciate my work.
“That’severythingforme.Iknow already that they do, but this was... oh my god.”
Gill has been at the school for seven years now, previously working at another school and working as a care aid in care homes before moving into the public school system. She said everything felt right really quickly at CDGMS.
“Wherever I went I try to make my home,” she said. “That’s just how I feel because I care so much about students and staff. I joke that sometimes I get in trouble because
I care so much.”
She’s been employed at the school district since 2007 and said she loves everything about being in the school environment.
“I enjoy caring about the kids,” she said. “I want to clean properly for them and I love, love to work with the staff also.”
Gill explained that one thing she always tries to do is bring a positive energy to work. Any other stresses or issues she might be facing elsewhere are left at the door.
“Every day, it doesn’t matter what happened before, once I enter the school door I am in a different atmosphere here,” she said. “I feel like – the kids give you love, they see you, they say hello and that I look nice today – these kinds of things make my day.”
The nomination form stated that Gill is always friendly to all the students and goes above and beyond to make sure everyone feels comfortable at school. She has also contributed food to help out with class parties and has donated freezies during the summer months to help students get a cool treat in the heat.
Gill has two children of her own in their 30s and said being around all the young children helps her relivesomeofheryoungerdaysand feel youthful herself.
“Wherever I work, I work for my heart,” she said. “I do care very much, sometimes my co-workers say it’s too much.”
She explained that custodians work morning or evenings shifts and Gill has done both over the years. Morning shift workers have to make sure the classrooms are all ready to go first thing and then custodians respond to calls and making sure things are perfect inside the school. Evening workers deal with the accumulation of a full day of activity and try to set things up for the following morning.
Gill said she believes that the role of a custodian is to maintain a safe and clean environment, but also be there for students.
“Kids need someone positive around them,” she said. “If you are positive then the kids will follow. They need someone like that. Cleaning is a part of the job, but I take care of them and the building anyway I can.”
Shesaidstudentshaverecognized her out in public and that and the factthatastudentnominatedherhas been overwhelming.
“Oh my god, they all make my day,”shesaidofthestudents.“They makemecryIamsohappy.Iloveto work, I love the school and the kids at the school. They are my heart.”
Story by Ben Lypka • Photos by John Morrow
Performing arts is her passion
Lauren Gloanec believes that fostering the spiritual and emotional growth of young people is just as important at theirintellectualandphysicaldevelopment – and that the arts play a crucial role.
St. John Brebeuf teacher
Lauren Gloanec loves to see her students shine
Gloanec, selected as one ofAbbotsford’sHeroesinEducation,isadrama andmusicaltheatreteacheratSt.John Brebeuf Regional Secondary.
She believes the power of the performing arts cannot be underestimated, particularly at a time when so many young people suffer from mental-health challenges such as anxiety and depression.
“(The performing arts are important) not just as a story to distract us, but learning to step into the skin of someone else and to practise compassion and empathy. Or to stand up in dramaclassanddosomethingscary,to feel vulnerable in front of your peers and be met with people who support you and cheer you on,” she said.
“Teaching a course where we put away the laptops and stand up in front of other humans, holding direct eye contactwitheachother,isprettypowerful when young people are used to connecting through a cellphone.”
Gloanec teaches drama for students in Grades 8 to 12, musical theatre to Grades 10 to 12, Social Studies 8, and Christian Education 9.
The performing arts is her passion.
She studied theatre and music in university, earning a diploma in musical theatre performance and a bachelor of arts with a major in theatre and minor in music.
Gloanec was first inspired to go into teaching by her mom, who taught French in elementary school, and then later by high school teachers and instructorsatvoicelessonsandtheatre camps.
“I think teachers in the arts can’t help but show their passion for the craft, and it’s contagious,” she said.
Gloanec had planned to pursue a career on the stage, but teaching was more conducive to raising children. (She and her husband, who is also a teacher, have three sons.)
She has been at St. John Brebeuf since she started teaching in 2017 and has helped grow the drama program from classes being held in an old portable on site to now being held in a massiveopenclassroominanaddition built to the school.
Gloanec works closely with fellow teachersVeronicaVanVlietandLaura de Fleuriot.
“We feel like we’ve hit our creative collaborativestridetogether.Itakethe reins with artistic direction, Veronica is head of production and any tech/ crew and backstage elements as well as some of the music direction, and Laura also takes on music direction and runs rehearsals on the days I can’t
be there,” she said.
Gloanec said other colleagues and membersofthecommunityareinstrumentalinensuringthesuccessofeach show.
As well, she said the school administrators are “incredibly supportive and see the arts as an essential part of education rather than an expandable elective course.”
They stage one big production each year, usually alternating between a musical and a play.This year, they are presentingWestSideStoryonApril24 and 25 at Matsqui CentennialAuditorium.
Several of Gloanec’s students say she is their favourite teacher and a vital part of the arts program.
“As a senior student who has had the pleasure of being taught and directed by Mrs. Gloanec, I cannot express how incredibly positive my experienceatSJBhasbeenbecauseof herinspiringattitudeanddedicationto her profession,” saidTheo Surdu.
Anotherstudent,AnabelleDosSantos,saidGloanec“recognizesthegifts and talents that people have.”
“She’ll push them and mentor them toachieveamazingthings.Iadmireher passionandenthusiasmforeverything she does. She is patient and understanding, which are very valuable qualities in a leader…Mrs. Gloanec is an inspiration to me and many other students in our community.”
Story by Vikki Hopes • Photos by John Morrow
Preserving culture while embracing learning
Dasmesh Punjabi School looks a lot different now than it did when Sharon Black first started there in 1992.
The elementary teacher said that oneofthebiggestchangeshasbeen the sheer size of the school, going fromlessthan200studentstomore than 900.
Sharon Black created the 3 L’s program at Dasmesh Punjabi School in 2009
But she’s also seen many improvements made to the level of education at the school, including the development of the 3 L’s program, which Black created more than 15 years ago.
“We always have evaluators come in, and the evaluators choose whether or not we can have our funding from the government,” Black said. “They said, ‘Where’s your help for struggling learners? I don’t see it anywhere.’And when they left, I said, I would like to do that. I would like to do thatbecause I was a struggler.”
Black developed what became the 3 L’s program and received approval from the school board to begin teaching it to elementary students.
“It was very simple at first, but it’s got way more complicated,” she said.
The initiative combines learning,
language,andliteracytohelpstruggling learners become more adept at language arts courses. Black has tried to inject a bit of fun into the learning by utilizing a wide range of children’s books and popular songs to engage students.
It’s this dedication to helping all of her students that has inspired Dasmesh Punjabi School business manager Loveraj Grewal to nominate Black as a Hero in Education.
“Mrs. Black has consistently fostered the belief for each student to ‘do the best you can whatever you do.’Assistingstudentsontheirway tosuccesshasgraduatesasdoctors, lawyers, pharmacists, etc. They bring their own kids to meet their Grade 2 teacher who still imparts her knowledge at Dasmesh Punjabi School,” Grewal said.
While the elementary students at Dasmesh Punjabi School learn all about how to read, write, and speak English, Black believes it’s important to keep them connected to their culture, which is why she also coordinated regular field trips to the Gur Sikh Temple National Historic Site where the students would learn about history and religion from the seniors at the temple.
“It’s important that they connect,” Black said. “Don’t lose your
background, culture, speech and music.”
Another major addition that Black brought to the school is the introduction of the Fill the Bin fundraising campaign.
This event takes place every year for Valentine’s Day, which she said was a holiday that the students didn’t particularly embrace when Black started at Dasmesh Punjabi School.
So Black decided to create something to replace the stereotypical Valentine’s Day celebrations, focusing the holiday on friendship, and encouraging students to bring in food donations for the Archway Abbotsford Food Bank.
In addition to teaching students the value of giving back to their community, Black explained that Fill the Bin also provides the food bank with plenty of contributions during a time of the year when donations typically slow down significantly since everyone tends to donate at the end of the year for the holiday season.
While she has already been at the school for more than 30 years, Black doesn’t plan to go anywhere anytime soon, saying that she’ll continue to teach for as long as she can.
Story and photos by Brandon Tucker
The City of Abbotsford’s Economic Development Department TheCityofAbbotsford’sEconomicDevelopmentDepartment congratulates the 2025 Indigenous Role Models, to be celebrated congratulatesthe2025IndigenousRoleModels,tobecelebrated by the Abbotsford School District in April. bytheAbbotsfordSchoolDistrictinApril.
2025INDIGENOUSROLEMODELS
She has a keen awareness and sensitivity
It’s been a lifetime of working with young people for Clayburn Middle School educational assistant Terry Ninkovic.
For the past 47 years she has been working with young people in the education in some form for basically her entire life.
Clayburn Middle School
educational assistant Terry Ninkovic loves working with young people
She said her experience caring for others really started by taking care of her sister, who was born with spina bfida. Ninkovic helped takeofheryoungersiblingforyears andthattimehelpeddevelopakeen awareness and sensitivity to the needs of others.
“I’ve always loved kids and wanted to be a mother before I wanted to be married,” she said laughing, and noting she has two daughters of her own. “And I’ve always got along with kids. I’ve always encouraged children’s play and to use their imagination and I love to be creative.”
She began her career in early childhood education in Ontario in 1978 and then moved to Abbotsford in 1988. It was at the Mountain Park Preschool at the base of Sumas Mountain where she got her first big career break and she ran that facility for 16 years.
She said she loved that experience, but moving into the public school system has also been
extremely rewarding.
But even before her time in the publicschoolsystem,shespentseveral years teaching ECE atAbbotsford’s Columbia Bible College.
Although she worked with more mature students there, it was all part of her journey helping students achieve their goals.
“IdidmyECEthoughthecollege and at one point one of the ladies retired and I was asked to take over their job,” she said, noting that she also running the preschool at the time. “It was just so creative and so inspiring. My idea was that if you’ve gone to the trouble to get this education (ECE) you should haveanideaabouthowyouwantto do things so I would let them try it.
“Some will fail, some will need some tweaking, but that’s how we learn.”
Shemoveovertothepublicschool system shortly thereafter and has been working as an EA in Abbotsford for close to 15 years.As is typical for an EA, Ninkovic moved all over the Abbotsford school district when she started and spent time at W.J. Mouat Secondary, Colleen and Gordie Howe Middle School, Aberdeen Elementary and about 11 others before finding a home at Clayburn.
Atypicaldayforhercouldseeher work alongside as many as 60 stu-
dentsinallsortsofdifferentclasses. She is there to help the teacher guide the class, aid students with any questions they may have and keep the class running smoothly. Everyday is different, with some more challenging than others, but she said the team at Clayburn has been great to work with.
“It’s trying to adapt things so that all the kids can be a part of what the class is doing,” she said. “It’s so neat to see when the lights come on – and sometimes they don’t come on. With them you just tell them youlovethemandthatyou’vedone enough for today.”
She works with a large team of EA’satClayburnandsaidtheschool has built a special community.
“We have a new principal who has really been connecting with the kids and I feel like I’ve actually made some great friends here,” she said. “Before there were so many EA’s moving around in different classrooms and it was hard to get to know people. That was a detriment to morale and the community.
“They’re now being more steady with us and it’s building more of a community.”
Ninkovichopestocontinuedoing this work for as long as she can and said she is looking forward to helping to build something special for students and staff at Clayburn.
Story by Ben Lypka • Photos by John Morrow
Making connections, making an impact
TheresaChanwasjustthree years old when she knew what she wanted to do with her life.
She was so inspired by her preschool teacher that even at such a young age, she knew that was the path she wanted to take.
Theresa Chan helps Yale Secondary students recognize their potential
“I saw how teachers could make a profound impact during a child’s formative years, and I was excited to be that influence,” Chan said.
She now teaches Social Studies 9, English 9 and 10, andAcademic LanguageAcquisition(levels3and 4) at Yale Secondary.
But her work goes far beyond just academics.
Chan’s students come from diverse backgrounds, and she says that understanding their individual purposes for learning directs her in what topics to include and what skills to target in each lesson.
“Getting to know my students first and foremost is of the utmost importancewhenIbeginteachinga class and to ensure a safe environment in which they feel comfortable exploring and thriving in their interests,” Chan said.
Chan was nominated as a Hero in Education by school counsellor Jennifer Wickman, who said she is an “exceptional and beloved teacher.”
“Theresa has demonstrated
unwavering commitment to the well-being and success of her students, going above and beyond the call of duty in every aspect of her role.”
Wickman said one of Chan’s most remarkable qualities is her dedication to new immigrants.
“Upon their arrival, she immediately opens her classroom as a safe spaceandahomebase,wherethese studentscanfindasenseofstability and comfort,” Wickman said.
“Sheis alifelineto many of them and has continually brought them supplies to their homes.”
Chan calls the welcoming of newcomers to the school “a collective effort,” saying she works closely with teachers and students to ensure these students feel supported.
Chan said building meaningful connections with students goes beyond the classroom, as she devotes much of her time to extracurricular activities.
In the past, she has sponsored the Global Club and the senior and junior girls’basketball teams.
In recent years, she has co-coached track and field and volunteered to organize convocation and graduation activities.
Chan also attends various school events, from fundraisers and festivals led by the school’s leadership
students to musical theatre and concerts.
She said the thing she enjoys most about teaching is when students have what she calls a “lightbulb moment.”
“I love making those personal connections with students. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see them embrace who they are and recognize their own potential,” Chan said.
She said she is also grateful to work alongside “dedicated colleagues who go above and beyond to support our students.”
Chan said she is “truly surprised and deeply honoured’to have been nominated as a Hero in Education.
“Tome,IfeellikeIamjustdoing my job, which makes this recognition even more humbling,” she said.
Chan’s educational background includes a bachelor of education from UBC in 2002 and a master’s degree in Teaching English as a Second Language from UBC in 2021.
She began her teaching career at an independent school in Burnaby before moving to the Abbotsford school district in 2007, starting withHoweMiddleSchoolandthen Eugene Reimer Middle School. She has been at Yale Secondary since 2010.
ForJasmeetDhaliwal,aGrade10student at DasmeshPunjabiSchool in Abbotsford,theopportunitytolearnboth PunjabiandFrench,alongsideherother studies,connectsherwithhercultureand herherbuildvitalskillsforherfuture.
UFV women post 62-59 win in basketball quarter-final
Ben Lypka
There were plenty of tense moments – a first half marred by turnovers and missed shots and it came down to the final whistle – but the University of the Fraser Valley Cascades women’s basketball team hung on for a 62-59 win over the Calgary Dinos in the Canada West quarter-final in Abbotsford last Saturday (Feb. 22).
The win advances the Cascades to the CW Final Four for the second consecutive season.
take a breathe,” she said.
“And that we’re a good team and we got this. We also knew that strong defence will create our offence and we built some off that energy off the bench in the second half.”
She hit another late bucket to put the Cascades up 58-54 late.
side the national top 10 all year and we believe we belonged in that group.
“ We were confident in practice all week – Calgary is a heck of a team, but we thought we could play with them.”
Tuchscherer praised the play of Allison and noted that she has tremendous championship experience. She won several titles in high school with Credo Christian in Langley and brought that experience to the CW playoffs.
Makeadifference this10weekcou Tuesdayevenings
6pm-9pm April 22
A disappointing first half saw the Cascades trail 38-30 to Calgary and commit 13 turnovers in 20 minutes. Those 13 turnovers led to 15 points by the Dinos.
It was a completely different story in the second half, as UFC locked down and focused defensively. They also started winning the rebounding battle and ended up edging Calgary 42-39 in that category.
Forward Esther Allison specifically stepped up in the second half. She finished with seven points, seven rebounds and two blocks. A big sequence in the third quarter saw Allison nail a three point shot and then record a monstrous block to give the Cascades a 46-43 lead.
Allison said that Cascades head coach Al Tuchscherer’s message at halftime was to manage the ball better and relax.
“He just told us we have to control our turnovers and just
“We were doing a stagger and we were trying to get Maddy (Gobeil) open, but two players went with Maddy because they were trying to stop her from shooting three’s,” she said. “I was wide open and cut to the hoop and Julia (Tuchscherer) found, so it was good.”
J. Tuchscherer and Gobeil scored 16 points apiece to lead the Cascades, with Tuchscherer adding a team-high 11 rebounds and seven assists. The Cascades shot 37.7 per cent from the field, while limiting Calgary to just 27.7 per cent.
They also cleaned up the turnovers with seven in the second half after 13 in the first.
Calgary had a great game from guard Myriam Kone, who led the Dinos with 16 points. She suffered an injury in the third quarter and missed a lot of that frame, but came back for the fourth quarter.
UFV head coach Al Tuchscherer said it was a significant win for the program.
“It’s exciting to get back to the final four,” he said. “We were there last year, but for our program to get back is a big deal. We’ve been the team out-
“She’s had a great year for us,” he said. “She’s really coming into her own as a player and we can count on her in those big plays.”
He added that he told the team to refocus at halftime.
“If they just stopped hurting themselves with silly turnovers and bad decisions,” he said of the first half. “You kind of just wanted to scream. But they came out, had a quick run in the third and figured out how to get back into the game.”
The Cascades now travel to Saskatoon to take on the University of Saskatchewan Huskies on Saturday (March 1). The two teams did not meet this season, but the Huskies eliminated the Cascades in last year’s semi-final round with an 84-50 win on Feb. 24, 2024.
The Huskies beat the TWU Spartans 83-57 in the quarterfinal round on Saturday. The semi-final games tips off at 5 p.m. PST.
UFV’s Julia Tuchscherer works for inside position against Calgary Dinos. (Ben Lypka/Abbotsford News)
MEI Eagles named top seed for 3A senior girls basketball
Ben Lypka
They’ve had buzz all season long, and after an Eastern Valley Athletic Association title win, the MEI Eagles senior girls basketball team enters the 3A provincial tournament as the number one seed.
B.C high school basketball officials revealed the seedings for all four tiers of the event, which occurs at the Langley Events Centre from Feb. 26 to March 1.
It’s the 75th anniversary of the event and to mark that occasion all four championships will occur in the Arena Bowl court for the first time ever.
MEI finished a perfect 6-0 in EVAA league play and then captured the banner with a 101-43 win over the Robert Bateman Timberwolves on Feb. 13. Five Eagles players scored in double digits for the win.
MEI’s Olivia Sidhu was named the EVAA’s most valuable player, while Eagles players Lola Reimer and Ella Tatlock both earned league all-star nods.
The Eagles won the Abbotsford Police City Basketball Tournament back in December, the Top Ten Tournament in Chilliwack in January and finished second at the Seaquam Tournament later on in January. MEI has been ranked at or near the top of 3A all season long. MEI will open the event against the 16th-seeded Valleyview Vikings. MEI isn’t the only school representing Abbotsford in the 3A tier, as the Bateman Timberwolves also qualified for the tournament. Bateman finished the EVAA season at 3-2 and players Eshnaa Gill and Thalia Olya were both
named EVAA all-stars.
Bateman is seeded seventh in the 3A tournament and open against the 10th-seeded Crofton House Falcons.
The 4A tournament features the return of the Yale Lions, as they enter the event seeded sixth. They take on 11th-seeded Okanagan-Mission on day one.
Yale finished EVAA league play at 9-2 and finished second. The Lions fell to the G.W. Graham Grizzlies in the semi-final round of the playoffs, but then bounced back to win the third place game. For more on the tournaments, visit bchighschoolbasketballchampionships.com.
UFV men eliminated from basketball playoffs
For the second straight season, the University of the Fraser Valley Cascades men’s basketball team posted an upset win in the Canada West play-in round but were then humbled in the quarterfinal to put an end to the 2024-25 season.
The Cascades travelled to Victoria and opened the weekend a big 91-72 win over the Lethbridge Pronghorns last Friday (Feb. 21).
That win set up a date with the undefeated (20-0) Victoria Vikes on Saturday (Feb. 22). The silver lining to that game was that the Vikes were playing without star player Diego Maffia, who tore his ACL last month.
UFV started hot and led the Vikes 27-26 after one, but from there the wheels came off and the Vikes took over. They outscored UFV 27-9 in the second quarter and posted a 106-84 win.
“They’rethe#1teaminthecountryforareason,” stated UFV head coach Joe Enevoldson.
“They have so many weapons that you have to play near-flawless basketball, and even then it may not be good enough. Our guys gave it their all, and
I’m proud of them and the way they hung around.”
“It was a great group of people,” Enevoldson noted when reflecting on the Cascades season.
“The future is very bright. I think the guys in the room are what makes the experience, and I think they all had a great experience. Moving forward the culture and the tone has been set for who we are, and what we are going to look like as a program.”
The MEI Eagles senior girls team celebrates an EVAA banner win. (Instagram photo)
UFV’s Ismael Hernandez drives against Victoria in a game played last Saturday, Feb. 2). (APShutter.com photo)
Ben Lypka
Jets complete four-game sweep of Pilots
The Chilliwack Jets are moving on in the Pacific Junior Hockey League playoffs after completing a sweep of the Abbotsford Pilots last Friday (Feb. 21).
The Jets advanced to the Harold Brittain Conference Final with a 4-3 win over Abbotsford at the MSA Arena.
After a scoreless first period, the Jets jumped out to a 2-0 lead early in the second but the Pilots answered back with two of their own in middle frame.
The teams traded goals in the third, but Chilliwack’s Marek Brideau scored the series winning goal at 17:08 to put an end to Abbotsford’s season.
The best-of-seven series saw the Jets open the series with a 7-0 win over Abbotsford on Feb. 16 in Chilliwack and follow that with a 6-5 win in Chilliwack on Feb. 18. The Jets took game three with an 8-3 win inside the MSA Arena on Feb. 19.
The Jets will now likely square off with the Ridge Meadows Flames, who are up 3-0 on the Surrey Knights in the other conference semi-final series.
Game four in that series is set for Thursday (Feb. 27) night in Surrey.
Abbotsford’s elimination puts an end to what could be considered a turnaround season for the franchise.
The Pilots finished in
third place in the Harold Brittain Conference and posted a record of 22-23-30. It marked the first playoff appearnce for the Pilots since the 2018-19 season.
The club was an underdog in the series against Chilliwack, as the Jets were the second best team in the PJHL during the regular season and had a record of 39-9-0-0. Abbotsford was led in playoff scoring by forward Ashton McDonaugh and defenceman Ryan Sullivan, who both recorded four points in four games.
Chilliwack’s Nikita Kulikov led all players in the series with 12 points. For more on the series, visit pjhl.net.
More than 99% of B.C. residents are exempt. But you still have to declare.
Mouat Hawks win big at BCSS wrestling provincials
Homeowners have until March 31 to complete their declaration for BC’s Speculation and Vacancy Tax. While all homeowners in designated areas must declare, 99% of British Columbia residents won’t have to pay the tax. This tax helps fund affordable housing initiatives and turns empty homes into housing for people who live and work in BC. Since 2017, more than 90,000 homes have been delivered or are underway under the Homes for BC and Homes for People plans.
Declare by March 31, 2025 at gov.bc.ca/spectax or by calling toll-free 1.833.554.2323
The W. J. Mouat Hawks cleaned up at the 2025 British Columbia School Sports wrestling championships, which occurred in Vancouver’s PNE Forum last Friday (Feb. 21) and Saturday (Feb. 22).
The Hawks senior boys team earned the provincial banner by collecting the most points of any boys team at the event and were highlighted by a number of fantastic performances from local wrestlers.
The weekend’s most outstanding male wrestler went to Grade 12 student Michaeljeet Grewal, who also won the male 110 kilograms division.
Grewal is a repeat winner in the division at the event and
he’s coming off a 2024 season that saw him compete all over the world and get nominated for a SportBC award for high school male athlete of the year.
The most outstanding boys matchattheeventwasawarded to the bout featuring Mouat’s Nathan Thiel and Marcus Lee from Heritage Woods in the 80 kilograms division. Thiel ended up winning that match and also took home the top spot in the 60 kg division.
Other Hawks wrestlers with top-three finishes included: Jagroop Dhinsa (first, boys 130 kg), Manjot Dhaliwal (second, boys 84 kg), Manraj Randhawa (second, boys 130 kg) and Gurshaan Kahlon (third, boys 74 kg).
Mouat also won the championship banner at the event last year.
Rick Hansen Secondary’s Gurshar Johjal was the only other local wrestler to win a divsion, as he took home first in the boys 57 kg division. Other locals in the top-three included: Robert Bateman’s Jovanpreet Johal (second, boys 78 kg), Abotsford Virtual School’s Jaiden Sharma (third, boys 78 kg), Abbotsford Traditional’s Mehar Deol (second, boys 90 kg), Hansen’s Gurkaran Gill (third, boys 110 kg) and Hansen’s Inder Lidder (third, boys 130 kg). For full results from the event, visit trackwrestling. com.
The Chilliwack Jets completed a sweep of the Abbotsford Pilots with a win on Friday, Feb. 21. (Melody Fast photo)
Ben Lypka
Ben Lypka
The W.J. Mouat Hawks took home the boys championship banner at the 2025 BCSS wrestling provincials. (Contributed)
Local rugby star joins Team Canada for international event
Brandon
Tucker
After an impressive performance in the men’s invitational of the HSBC SVNS Vancouver this past weekend, the Rugby 7s senior men’s team will now be headed to South Africa for the first stop of the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Challenger, with an Abbotsford athlete joining the ranks of the national team.
Noah Bain, 27, was a key part of Team Canada’s winning record at HSBC SVNS Vancouver, scoring a try in their match against Japan and playing a physical game throughout the weekend.
Fellow Abbotsford athlete James Theil also had a few shining moments on the men’s team, scoring two tries in their dominant win over Trinidad and Tobago on Feb. 22.
of the men’s invitational, as head coach Sean White hopes to keep this winning streak going next weekend in the opening round of the HSBC Sevens Challenger series kicks off in Cape Town, South Africa.
“Having the opportunity to build cohesion as a team as well as fine-tune our processes on and off the field will allow us to hit the ground running in Cape Town,” said White.
“I was certainly pleased with our performances in Vancouver, and it made for very difficult selections which is what you always want as a coach.”
Bain is one of 13 athletes donning the Maple Leaf for this tournament, which takes place from March 1-2 and March 7-8.
The HSBC World Rugby Sevens Challenger features teams from all over the world, with the top eight men’s and women’s teams after the opening round advancing to the second portion of the tournament in Poland in April.
If Canada is able to advance to the second round and finish in the top four men’s spots, then they’ll qualify for the HSBC SVNS championship in Los Angeles.
BRADNER HISTORY
The Bradner History Committee meets Saturday, March 1 at 2 p.m. at Bradner Presbyterian Church, 5275 Bradner Rd. Everyone is welcome, especially those interested in local history.
PARKINSON SUPPORT
The Parkinson Society of B.C.’s Abbotsford support group meets the first Monday of each month (except stat holidays) at 2 p.m. at the Abbotsford Social Activity Association, 2631 Cyril St. (Extra parking is available behind the building.) The group gives people with Parkinson’s, their caregivers and families an opportunity to meet in a friendly support-
Slice of Life
ive setting to share experiences, listen and learn. The next meeting on March 3 features a video that deals with cognitive issues and non-motor symptoms. Afterwards, participants will discuss the content from the views of a Parkinson patient and of a caregiver. Info: Karen at 604-855-4155 or klrudyk@gmail.com
LEARNING PLUS
Team Canada begins the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Challenger tournament with a match against Madagascar on Saturday, March 1, followed by a matchup with the Hong Kong China team later that same day. A full schedule of the tournament can be found at www.world.rugby.
gratefully accepted. New members are always welcome. Info: Doreen at 604-8525684 or Kathy at 604859-3269
FREE CLOTHES
3277 Gladwin Rd. Admission is by donation, with all the proceeds going to youth initiatives. Info: fvma.ca
COFFEE TALK Keep in Touch with the Dutch coffee club meets Tuesday, March 11 from 10 a.m. to noon at House of James, 2743 Emerson St. The group meets the second Tuesday of each month.
QUILTERS GUILD
The City of Abbotsford presents Learning Plus, a 55-plus program where each week new presenters come to discuss fun and interesting topics from 10 a.m. to noon at the Abbotsford Recreation Centre.
The Clothes2U free clothing give-away takes place Saturday, March 8 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Seven Oaks Alliance Church, 2575 Gladwin Rd. Items available include clothing for babies to adults, toys, diapers/incontinence items, linens, and personal and smaller household items. Take as much as you need. Entry fee is $5 cash (no charge for kids 10 and under). Visit“Clothes2U” on Facebook or call 604-857-4617 for more information.
VERY VERY IMPROV
The Abbotsford Quilters Guild meets Tuesday, March 11 at 10 a.m. at Ross Road Community Church, 3160 Ross Rd. Make new friends, learn new techniques and tips, give back to the community and be inspired. Info: Carole at 604-8530867 or Donna at Mrsz. sews@gmail.com
On Tuesday, March 4, the topic is Cruising Alaska with Cunard. On Thursday, March 6, the topic is Chronic Pain: The Mind, Body Connection. Coffee, tea and refreshments provided. Cost is $4.50. Visit Direct2Rec.com to register or call 604-853-4221.
BLANKET TIME
Blankets for the Fraser Valley meets Thursday, March 6 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Abbotsford Co-op Housing at 32855 Marshall Rd. in their community room. Members put together knitted and crocheted blankets for those in need in Abbotsford. Yarn donations are
Very Very Improv Community Jams take place the second Saturday of every month at Open Space (33765 Essendene Ave.). Performers who put their name in the hat are offered a chance to get up on stage and create a scene selected by the host. Participants are encouraged to arrive early to register to play by 7:15 p.m. The next event is on March 8.
IN THE MARKET
The Fraser Valley Metis Association hosts the First Nation, Inuit, Metis Artisan Market on Saturday, March 8 from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Mámele’awt Indigenous Education Centre,
NATURE CLUB
The Abbotsford Mission Nature Club meets Wednesday, March 12 at 7:30 p.m. at the Ravine Park Hatchery, 2395 Crescent Way. The public is welcome. Info: AbbyMissionNatureClub.ca or info@abbymissionnatureclub.ca
CAREGIVERS MEET
Abbotsford Association for Healthy Aging hosts caregiver support groups for those caring for an older adult in Abbotsford. Meetings alternate Wednesday afternoons at Matsqui Recreation Centre. For information, including dates and times, call 604-768-5421.
Noah Bain was named to Canada’s men’s team for the 2025 HSBC World Rugby Challenger series. (Contributed)
“Live the life you love and love the life you live”
Betty-Marie; daughter, sister, wife, mother, aunt, grandmother, great grandmother and a friend to all.
It is with sadness that our family share the news of Mom’s passing. She is pre-deceased by her son John and her husband Frank, survived by children David (Cora), Anne-Marie (Syd), Christine (Colin), grandchildren Bryan, Ashley, Steven, Adam, Ben, Lauren, Dorothy and great grandchildren, Oliver, Blair, Watson, Brantley, Alex andTesla
Betty, the first child of John and Marion Anderson, was born at MSA Hospital in Abbotsford. She grew up on the family dairy farm with her sisters, Ann and Lorraine, attending Matsqui Elementary and graduating from Abby Senior in 1956. Life on the farm was challenging due to her parents’ health issues. At just 10 years old, Betty helped move and milk cows during the 1948 Fraser River flood. Her early experiences shaped her into a skilled farmer with a keen sense for animals and business. One of her proudest moments was representing Matsqui as a 4H Ambassador at a conference in Ontario at age 16, foreshadowing her adventurous spirit.
At 19, Betty left the farm for city life in Vancouver, quickly finding a job and becoming self-sufficient. It was at her second job that she met Frank, the love of her life. They married in 1958, bought their first home in Langley, and soon had four children. The family moved back to Matsqui to take over the family dairy farm, where Betty’s natural talents shone. She managed the farm, raised her children, and was activeinvariouscommunityactivities,including B.C. Dairy Women, Matsqui Lutheran Church and the Abbotsford Arts Council.
Betty and Frank retired in 1993, moving to Abbotsford. In retirement, Betty discovered her talent for pottery; attending a high level pottery summer school in Victoria, learning among many things, the chemistry of clay and glazes andusingthisknowledgetocreatemanypieces for family and friends.
Betty also had a natural talent for fishing, enjoying many days at their second home at Watch Lake in the Cariboo. Spending hours on the lake and in all weather conditions, she knew every tie, every spot the fish hid, the temperature of the water and where to drill holes for ice fishing. Her instinct and knowledge were undeniable, and she enjoyed sharing this with her grandchildren
A true adventurer, Betty never turned down an opportunity to explore. As Frank did not like to travel abroad, she made trips on her own to New Zealand to visit Anne-Marie and Nicaragua to visit her sister Lorraine. She made it a point toattendasmanyrecitals,hockeytournaments, swim meets, and graduations that her grandchildren participated in, cherishing every moment. She became a member of the Red Hat Society and attended plays, movies, musicals, shopping trips, gardens, and teas. She loved invitations to parties and enjoyed hosting them even more. Anywhere there was something to explore, she was there. She lived this right up to the last week of her life.
Betty’s greatest natural talent was connecting with people, always ready to make a new friend. She loved to tell stories and engage in conversation. We could always count on her to make a friend on whatever adventure she was on.
Betty was deeply spiritual and in her final days, she knew she was being called home and she said she was ready to be with Frank. We are comforted knowing they are dancing together again.
Mom will be missed by everyone, but she left us allwithanabundanceofmemories. Lifeshould not just be lived… it should be celebrated. Please join us to celebrate Betty-Marie Saturday March 29th, Peace Lutheran Church, 2029Ware St Abbotsford
Doors open 1:00 pm, Service at 1:30 pm, light refreshments and fellowship to follow at the church
“Everything is possible for one who believes’ Mark 9:23
As long as hearts remember, As long as hearts still care, We never part with those we love ~ ey’re with us everywhere ~ So many of our precious memories, Of those we hold dear, Bring peace and comfort to us now, And keep our loved one near.
Sidhu & Sons Nursery is seeking a full-time, permanent Mechanic in Mission. Duties include repairing and maintaining farm equipment. 2–3 years of previous mechanical experience required. Must be hard working, self-motivated, and able to communicate with different departments. Job includes physical aspects like heavy lifting, standing, bending. Wages $30-$44/hr. Extended health & dental benefits, RRSP matching. Hours of work: 40+ hours/week. Hours subject to vary. Language of work is English. Send resume to hr@sidhunursery.com or fax to 604-820-1361. Head office 9623 Sylvester Road, Mission, BC. Email or call 604826-7524 with any questions.
MOVING SALE
Boats, canoe, tires, wheels, household items, clothing ... Lots of Stuff! Saturday & Sunday, March 1 & 2, 9am-4pm 7260 Wardrop St (off Lougheed) Mission
YardMaintenance,CleanUp, Pruning,Weeding&More. Robert 604-504-1559 (604)-300-5770 (textonly) rghandylandscaper@gmail.com
Flat roof, metal roofing, asphalt shingles, cedar shakes &gutters.604240-5362 Family Man with truck for yard & home clean-ups, odd jobs, scrap removal. Free estimates. Call 604-820-2383
shepherd puppies German Sheperd pups born Christmas day . Ready to go now. $700.00 Vet check wormed and 1st shots. Hope BC 604 860 2314 cell 604 798 5499 jamesdamaisis@gmail.com
Arlington Place 2487 Countess St. Abbotsford (Next to MCC) Very Competitive rates. Quiet, Clean, Well Managed. NOW AVAILABLE LGE 1 & 2 BD SUITES Heat & hot water incl. Fridge, stove, d/w, m/w Resident Manager @ 604-850-7050
Aspen Court 2450 Center St. Abbotsford Very Competitive Rates. Quiet,Clean, Well Managed. CALL FOR AVAILABILITY BACHELOR, 1 & 2 BDRM SUITES. Heat & hot water incl. Fridge, stove, d/w, m/w. SECURE U/G PRKG Sorry, no pets. Resident Managers @ 604-870-1118
Bantview Gardens 33415 Bourquin Pl. Abbotsford Park-like setting, close to Mill Lake, Centennial Park & 7 Oaks. NS/NP. Quiet, Clean, Well Managed, Comp Rates. NOW AVAILABLE LGE 1 BDRM & DEN & 2 BDRM SUITES
Heat & hot water incl. Fridge, stove, d/w. SECURE U/G PRKG Resident Managers @ 604-556-7742
CONDO - Must be 55 years of age plus. Total fresh Reno & Appliances. 2 Bdrm, 2 bath, 2 secure u/g parking, 2 large south facing decks. Nonsmokers, one small pet ok. Located near Abbotsford hospital & freeway. $2200/mo. Call 604-855-6108. For Rent 1 bedroom basement suite (Aldergrove area) security system, microwave, wash/dryer, utilities included. No pets,
As the hub of the Fraser Valley, Abbotsford continues to be the community people choose to live, work, play and raise a family.
This 15th edition of Abbotsford in Action highlights the many reasons people make this their home. From our welcoming nature, local residents know this place is the best the valley has to offer.
Join us as we check in on the industrial/commercial sectors that thrive and employ thousands as well as the deep roots we have in agriculture.
A blossoming film sector, coupled with tourism that continues to grow, Abbotsford is truly reeling folks into our community.
Vibrant and caring, exciting and progressive, Abbotsford’s generosity of spirit always makes our future seem bright.
Surgeryperformedprivately atValleyLaserEyeCentre within 4-6weeks.
DrJohnFBlaylock
Message from the Mayor
Abbotsford city council is now officially more than halfway through our term, and I’m pleased to reflect on the progress we’ve made together in our second year of office.
Last year saw us continue to build on the strong foundation of our 2022-2026 Strategic Plan, advancing many initiatives aimed at building a vibrant and more sustainable future for everyone in Abbotsford.
In our first year, we adopted the McKee Neighbourhood Plan and we are now processing a large development application for about 105 single-family lots and two large townhouse developments in that neighbourhood.
Substantial growth and building are certainly on the horizon for our community as in 2024, we approved more than 2,100 residential units, with another 2,600 approved in principle. These strong numbers translate to creating more housing opportunities for individuals and families looking to put down roots in Abbotsford.
Additionally, in 2024, we digitized our building inspections and permits, which has reduced wait times, and we’ve been approving developments at a record-setting pace, culminating in a record-setting $784 million in construction value for last year.
Economic growth remains strong for our city, and through our newly adopted Business Retention and Expansion Strategy, we will continue to see ongoing support and engagement with local businesses and industry sectors. We are well positioned to support long-term growth as a“city of choice”for development and sustainable investment.
In 2024, we negotiated with the province through BC Housing for more than 220 new shelter spaces and supportive housing units and, thanks to our federal Reaching Home program funding, we also invested more than $1.78 million in projects that help to house vulnerable people.
We also led the way in innovation, creating a new app that supports our local community front-line social workers to improve their service delivery, while our Abbotsford ACCESS team worked to identify gaps in service and connect those dealing with mental health and addictions, and those experiencing homelessness, with help.
As a city, we continue to advocate for more support from senior levels of government for our most vulnerable residents and are constantly working closely with the Abbotsford Police Department to achieve their vision of Abbotsford as the Safest City in B.C.
Of significance last year, we secured $76.6 million in provincial funding, which was the largest grant in the city’s history, to upgrade the Barrowtown Pump Station and improve our flood resiliency.
We also saw the completion of the new Montrose Transit Exchange and finalized a turf field joint-use agreement with the Abbotsford school district. We’ve also added new facilities and playgrounds at several of our community parks.
However, like many cities, we continue to face challenging issues, from housing affordability, to mental health and addiction impacts, to inflation and rising costs.
These remain among our top priorities as city council, and we are determined to push for the resources, support and key partnerships required to address these challenges and support our dynamic community.
Looking ahead, 2025 will be a milestone year. We are marking the 30th anniversary of the City of Abbotsford, while also advancing the update of our Official Community Plan, which will shape how we grow as a community into the future.
Abbotsford is more than a city – it’s our home. It’s where we live, work and raise our families. Serving this community is a privilege, and I am so proud of what we’ve accomplished together so far.
There always will be more work to be done, but we remain committed to moving forward, advocating for the needs of our residents and businesses, and building Abbotsford into the culture and economic Hub of the Fraser Valley.
New repair shop
The city has approved a 6,600-squaremetre (71,000-square-foot) industrial building on Foy Street that will house a new repair shop and storage container warehouse for U-Haul and a 5,060-square-metre (54,000-squarefoot) building in the Mt. Lehman industrial area for Northwest Stoves
Industrial and commercial sector growth continues to boom Construction value of $784 million breaks record for 2024
“We have one of the most diversified industrial bases of any municipality – everything from the aggregates to aerospace.”
- Mayor Ross Siemens
Building permit approvals in Abbotsford for 2024 amounted to a record-breaking construction value of more than $784 million, including 17,000 square metres (183,000 square feet) of new industrial floor space and 2,300 square metres (25,000 square feet) of commercial space.
Mayor Ross Siemens said Abbotsford continues to be an attractive place for industry.
The community has plenty to offer – including proximity to the U.S. border, a thriving airport, and an ethnically diverse population and economy.
“We have one of the most diversified industrial bases of any municipality – everything from the aggregates to aerospace,”Siemens said.
A common challenge facing every community in the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley is the growing shortage of industrial land. But Siemens said Abbotsford has some “longer term opportunities” to develop the sector, particularly as it pertains to farming.
“What we do need to put our head – our minds – toward is what does modern agriculture need to continue?”he said.
“That’s why our long-term flood mitigation plan, for instance, is not just about getting rid of water when it comes over too quickly, but how do we store water
and provide irrigation to make our prairie even more productive?”
In the meantime, several large projects are underway.
The city’s largest industrial development ever –Hungerford Properties’ 140-acre Xchange Business Park – was approved in early 2021 on Mt. Lehman Road north of Highway 1 and Highstreet Shopping Centre.
The project involves 11 buildings encompassing 1.3 million square feet of space. The buildings are mostly slated for industrial use, but the city has also changed its zoning bylaws to allow for up to 40 per cent of floor space to be used for office, retail, rental and product display – as long as the goods are manufactured or warehoused on site.
The first two buildings are now complete, and the site welcomed its first tenant – Cintas Corporation – in 2024, which provided about 100 new jobs.
Another massive project is a 143,500-square-foot expansion of the dairy processing operation at Vitalus Nutrition at the corner of Mt. Lehman and Downes roads. The provincial government announced in April 2024 that it was contributing $25 million to the project.
The expansion is expected to increase the number of Vitalus employees from 135 to more than 230 when it is complete.
Construction is also continuing on the city’s secondlargest industrial development – a 250,000-square-foot project on Riverside Road that will contain six buildings to be used for light industrial and warehousing. Possible industries that could use the site include transportation, logistics and distribution.
The city has also approved a 6,600-square-metre (71,000-square-foot) industrial building on Foy Street that will house a new repair shop and storage container warehouse for U-Haul and a 5,060-squaremetre (54,000-square-foot) building in the Mt. Lehman industrial area for Northwest Stoves.
The commercial sector is also seeing continued growth, with 2,300 square metres (25,000 square feet) of new commercial space approved through development permits in 2024.
New commercial spaces approved last year were primarily composed of small areas within mixed-use developments in the historic downtown and city centre – for example, a business occupying the bottom level of an apartment building.
Agricultural innovation continues to be a main source of growth in the community.
The Abbotsford International Airport is another
The city approved building permits for 25,000 square feet of commercial space in 2024. (John Morrow/Abbotsford News)
Aerospace, trucking and gravel also important
Continued from page 4
crucial sector contributing to the city’s industrial and commercial base.
More than 1,000 people are directly employed at companies based at the airport, which remains home to some of the city’s biggest employers. Cascade Aerospace employs hundreds of workers at its maintenance facility, which is one of two Lockheed-Martin-authorized C-130 heavy maintenance centres in the world.
The company in July 2024 started its IMP Academy, a paid apprenticeship program to develop aircraft maintenance technicians.
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.
Abbotsford is also a transportation hub and home to truck drivers working for companies such as Valley Carriers, Vedder Transport and Tri-Link Systems who facilitate the movement of goods around the Lower Mainland and Western Canada.
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.
Cintas Corporation is the first tenant of the 140-acre Xchange Business Park on Mt. Lehman Road north of Highway 1. (John Morrow/Abbotsford News)
Highstreet Village
Another major project under construction is the Highstreet Village apartment-and-townhouse project at Mt. Lehman Road and Cardinal Avenue, north of Highstreet Shopping Centre. The project consists of nine condo buildings and 147 townhouse units, amounting to more than 700 housing units in total.
Highest number of housing units approved marks new record for city
Several massive housing projects currently underway
Residential development flourished in Abbotsford in 2024, setting a record for the highest number of housing units approved in the city in any given year.
Construction is continuing on several large residential projects in Abbotsford.
There will also be a two-storey amenity building of almost 3,000 square feet.
“What we’ve really seen an uptick on is the fourto six-storey apartment condos. A lot of young families like the idea of a townhouse as well … and then for people who are downsizing, townhouses are a really good option.”
-
Mayor Ross Siemens
The total number of units – single-family lots, apartments and townhouses – increased from 980 in 2023 to 2,112 in 2024, representing a 115 per cent increase.
Of the 2,112 units approved, 156 were for single-family lots and the rest were for apartments and townhouses.
The total for 2024 also broke the prior record – set in 2018 – by 42 per cent, and compares to a five-year average of approximately 900 units.
Mayor Ross Siemens said there are a few reasons for the increase, one of them being a continued rise in construction since the pandemic.
He said, as well, tougher economic times means more young families fromVancouver-area suburbs are turning to more-affordable options in the Fraser Valley, and developers are responding to that demand.
“What we’ve really seen an uptick on is the four- to six-storey apartment condos. A lot of young families like the idea of a townhouse as well … and then for people who are downsizing, townhouses are a really good option,”he said.
Siemens said developers also appreciate the work that the city has put into its various neighbourhood plans, which provide guidelines for how land can be used and how it will be serviced.
The Rail District, which broke ground in 2021, is a massive development in the historic downtown core on the east side of the city.
The“master planned community”by developer Infinity Properties is located on the 19-acre site of the former Clayburn Brick Plant property east of McCallum Road and north of George Ferguson Way and Pine Street.
Construction of the first set of townhouses is now complete, and the second set is nearing completion.
Two apartment buildings are currently under construction, while another townhouse lot, two more apartment buildings and a mix-used apartment building are at various stages in the approval process.
In all, the project includes 650 residential units, as well as 80,000 square feet of retail and office space.
Another major project under construction is the Highstreet Village apartment-and-townhouse project at Mt. Lehman Road and Cardinal Avenue, north of Highstreet Shopping Centre.
The project consists of nine condo buildings and 147 townhouse units, amounting to more than 700 housing units in total.
The townhouses are a mix of two-, three- and fourbedroom units ranging in size from 1,317 to 1,819 square feet. Seven of the units include private rooftop amenity areas.
The apartment buildings are composed of one-, twoand three-bedroom units ranging from 500 to 974 square feet, and include a two-level underground parkade.
The development’s two parcels of land, totalling 12.5 acres, were sold to developers Alf and BrunoWall – who are brothers – for $26 million in 2018.
Another hub of residential development is Cooper Meadows on the 63-acre site of the former Cooper Farm on McMillan Road, where construction has begun on what will eventually become almost 400 units of housing, including single-family homes (some with secondary suites), duplex homes and townhouses.
A future 40-unit townhome site is also proposed at the south end of the property where the iconic red barn was located.
The project also calls for almost 18 acres of land being dedicated to the city as parkland.
Last year also saw the first application come in for development of the McKee neighbourhood.
Council in 2023 – following two contentious public hearings – approved an amendment to the Official Community Plan to provide a framework for the development and preservation of approximately 2,000 acres (842 hectares) on Sumas Mountain.
Construction is underway on the Cooper Meadows development on the former Cooper Farm on McMillan Road. (John Morrow/Abbotsford News)
With respect to that area, the city has received a rezoning application from Polygon Homes for land south of Ledgeview Golf Course.The proposal calls for the development of approximately 100 residential lots and two large townhouse parcels comprising some 11 acres (4.5 hectares).
Near that area, the city has also received – and is in the final stages of reviewing – a subdivision application for 150 lots in the West Highlands neighbourhood.
In addition, several applications have come forward for residential development in the Auguston area, including a new apartment building and many new residential lots. Other housings projects approved in Abbotsford in 2024 include 104 affordable rental units on Horne Street, 130 townhouse units on McCallum Road in the District and 134 apartment units in a mixed-use building on Simon Avenue.
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The Rail District in the historic downtown core is being built over several years and consists of 650 residential units and 80,000 square feet of retail and office space. (John Morrow/Abbotsford News)
Construction is well underway for the Highstreet Village housing development near Highstreet Shopping Centre on Mt. Lehman Road. (John Morrow/Abbotsford News)
Abbotsford sees big bump in filming numbers in 2024
City has created an Abbywood self-guided tour with 109 stops of locations used for filming over the years
After a slight dip in 2023 due to a nearly five-month writers' strike, filming numbers in Abbotsford for 2024 roared louder than King Kong.
Film productions days jumped from 197 to 306, local locations used rose from 125 to 170 and the economic impact ballooned from $2.49 million in 2023 to $3.614 million in 2024.
The economic impact is also up over $1 million from 2022, which reached about $2.6 million.
Some of the content filmed in Abbotsford last year included: Christmas-themed movies A Novel Noel, Leah’s Perfect Gift and a Private Princess Christmas, TV series such as Happy Place and shorts like The Wicked Flee, Choices and Auganic.
The City of Abbotsford has created an Abbywood self-guided tour with 109 stops of locations that have been used for filming over the years. The tour can be found on the city’s website. Top locations include local arenas, Clayburn Village, the old courthouse, parks, Tradex and more.
The city’s filming resource guide, which was last revised in November 2023, says the growth of the film sector in Abbotsford is supported by lower costs for productions compared to other areas of B.C.
“These lower costs typically make up for the additional costs incurred by lower budget films that see the additional time and money spent on transporting cast, crew and equipment as a barrier to their production work in Abbotsford,” the guide states.
The guide also states that Abbotsford is home to a host of unique under-filmed locations, has access to talented labour, and is both affordable and accessible to the industry. According to the guide, a key selling feature to Abbotsford is its proximity toVancouver.There are also a number of popular filming locations nearby such as Mission, Langley, Maple Ridge and Harrison.
“Abbotsford also boasts an active and engaged city council who are committed to fostering an economically diverse and resilient community,”the guide adds.“Being
a key economic driver, the film sector in Abbotsford aligns with the vibrant economy cornerstone of council’s 2022-2026 strategic plan.”
According to the guide, growth of the film sector in Abbotsford is supported by lower costs for productions. Film permitting costs are typically lower in Abbotsford as well as location costs and other associated fees when compared to other municipalities in British Columbia. These lower costs typically make up for the additional costs incurred by lower budget films that see the additional time and money spent on transporting cast, crew, and equipment as a barrier to their production work in Abbotsford.
Productions companies that film in Abbotsford are also eligible to apply for the BC Film Tax Credit. The City recommends six steps for companies to complete in the approval process. Those steps consist of:
• completing a film application, business licence and insurance
• paying a security deposit
• completing a highway use permit
• fullfiling community engagement and filming notification responsibilities
• complete filming and payment of services
• fill out the filming wrap sheet
Abbotsford’s film industry has experienced a surge in recent years, but it has been a destination for decades.
The News recently looked at the top five box office grossing locally filmed movies and they consisted of:
1. Good Boys (2019) – $111.2 million
2. Shooter (2007) – $95.7 million
3. Dreamcatcher (2003) – $81.2 million
4. Miracle (2004) – $64.5 million
5. Homeward Bound II: Lost in San Francisco (1996)
– $32.7 million
For more information on filming locally, visit abbotsford.ca/business-development/filming.
The City of Abbotsford has produced a website and guide for companies to help them speed up the process to film locally.
Cop shop addition
The 105,000-square-foot addition is expected to be ready for occupancy in March 2025. The renovation of the existing building will follow and is expected to be complete by the spring of 2026.
The two options presented to council in March 2020 were a new building with an estimated cost of $84.5 million or an addition/renovation to the current building for a cost of almost $60 million.
Abbotsford Police Department making sure to grow with the future
Work is nearing completion on the first phase of an expansion and renovation of the Abbotsford Police Department headquarters.
The 105,000-square-foot addition is expected to be ready for occupancy in March 2025. The renovation of the existing building will follow and is expected to be complete by the spring of 2026.
The budget for the project has grown – as is normal with any project that can take years from city approval to construction completion – and now comes in at $87.1 million.
Funding comes in the form of a long-term loan from the Municipal Finance Authority, with the rest to be covered by internal general capital reserves.
The new site significantly expands the size of the original headquarters, which was built in 1988 for the Matsqui Police Department when just 74 officers – along with a complement of support staff – served
a population of 58,000 residents.
The APD, which was created after the amalgamation of Matsqui and the District of Abbotsford, now has almost 350 officers and staff supporting a community of 157,000.
Over the next 20 years or so, the APD expects to add 100 more total staff.
The APD is currently split over six buildings, and council was previously told that the department is outgrowing its current headquarters – located on Justice Way east of Clearbrook Road.
The space issues include jail services that are often full, halls and corridors being used as storage areas because storage areas are being used for other purposes, and change rooms that are cramped and overflowing with gear.
The new building will provide additional workspace, change rooms, parking, jail cells, bail hearing rooms
and a breathalyzer room.
As well, the expansion will increase the capacity of investigative space, enhance and modernize the forensics and digital forensics labs, and improve training space.
The building is also more accessible for those with accessibility challenges.
The two options presented to council in March 2020 were a new building with an estimated cost of $84.5 million or an addition/renovation to the current building for a cost of almost $60 million.
Council voted on the latter option, saying the expansion was sorely needed. Costs have since jumped due mainly to the pandemic, including disruptions in the supply chain, commodity costs for construction materials, a shortage of qualified labour, and inflationary pressures.
A 105,000-square-foot addition to the Abbotsford Police Department is nearing completion and is expected to be ready for occupancy in March 2025. (Abbotsford Police Department)
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Sevenoaks Shopping Centre celebrating 50 years of business in 2025
Abbotsford’s largest mall honouring its rich history with golden anniversary year of events
It’s set to be a golden anniversary year for one of Abbotsford’s best places to shop till you drop.
Sevenoaks Shopping Centre celebrates 50 years of business in 2025 and the mall is planning for a year filled with celebrations and nods to the past.
The centre officially opened on Oct. 15, 1975 at 10 a.m. and featuredWoodward’s, Eaton’s and 40 other retailers.
The original discussion for the construction of the mall began in 1972 when developers met with city council to discuss planning concepts.
The general public got a first sneak peek at what the mall would look like through pictures released in 1973. It’s believed that the Abbotsford News reported on its development plans at that time.
Some of the design elements spoken about included: three levels, a curve design, contemporary interior, excellent store frontage for tenants and closed-circuit television for increased security. The mall boasted 350,000 square feet of stores and more than 1,750 parking spots. Oakie the squirrel was the mall’s original mascot.
The Sevenoaks name was chosen because Grosvenor International, the property development group that originally built the mall, had developed and named Surrey’s Guildford Town Centre a few years prior and Sevenoaks is a town in England that is just east of Guildford.
Seovenoca, which dates back as far as 1114, was a small trading village in England located in the middle of a rich agricultural area – just like Abbotsford.
The original food court at Sevenoaks was named The Shambles and that name was inspired by one of the oldest covered shopping areas in Europe. The Shambles
was found in the town of Sevenoaks for centuries.
Sevenoaks still exists today and has a population of close to 30,000. It’s found in the county of Kent and is southeast of London.
Significant changes arrived to the mall in 1984, with The Bay replacing Woodward’s, centre court being created and the food court relocated. More upgrades occured in 1989 with the northeast entry and skylights added.The east wing was built in 1991 and the customer service centre was created in 1994. Sears arrived in 1999 and that included a second floor and a three-level parkade. Sport Chek entered the mall in the year 2000 and the food court was relocated to its current location.
The years 2005 to 2008 saw several interior changes, an updated colour palette, new lighting and store fronts, store expansions and parkade painting.
The mall’s logos have also evolved over the years. The original logo was an orange seven wrapping around the Sevenoaks name and that lasted until the 90s when a brighter design featuring the mountains and sun was created. The early-2020s saw a more sleek design and that design has been recently enlarged to give a more modern feel. The mall has also released a 50th anniversary logo to commemorate 2025. They worked with Langley’s Jelly Marketing for the anniversary design.
The mall has several events planned to celebrate the golden anniversary, with more details expected to be released in the near future. They are also asking Abbotsford residents to share their memories and photos about time at the mall. Some of those chosen will be featured during the year.
A special logo to celebrate 50 years was released by the mall in January.
Wineries & flowers
While Tourism Abbotsford works to promote all kinds of local events and attractions, they made a concentrated effort last year to spotlight the local wineries and flower shops as part of the Bouquets and Barrels initiative, which they plan to continue this year as well.
Tourism Abbotsford wants to amp up local events to draw in visitors
“For 2025, our primary focus will be driving overnight visitation, a strategy designed to benefit all tourism stakeholders and bolster the local business economy.”
- Clare Seeley
Bouquet and Barrels initiative helped concentrate on spotlighting local wineries and flower shops in our city
ForTourism Abbotsford, 2024 was a year of introducing a lot of new events or promotional tools to support local happenings, but executive director Clare Seeley said that the community can expect even more to come in 2025.
“Our creative and dedicated team worked collectively this year to develop the 2025 work plan, leveraging individual strengths and interests to set a clear and strategic direction for the year ahead,” Seeley said.
She said that one of the tools thatTourism Abbotsford rolled out last year that received an overwhelmingly positive experience from the public was the Go! Abbotsford website, which was developed in partnership with the City of Abbotsford.
This new website serves as a comprehensive calendar with community, signature, and specialized events across the region, and will be joined this year by the launch of the Explore Abbotsford Guide.
“This will replace the Community Guide as a fresh, comprehensive resource,” Seeley said. “We will also be introducing a custom-designed trailer to showcase Abbotsford’s experiences and offerings at events and locations both locally and regionally.”
While Tourism Abbotsford works to promote all kinds of local events and attractions, they made a concentrated
effort last year to spotlight the local wineries and flower shops as part of the Bouquets and Barrels initiative, which they plan to continue this year as well.
“As we all look for ways to support Canadian businesses, we encourage people to consider Abbotsford wines as a fantastic addition to their shopping list,”Seeley said.
Another side to Abbotsford that the group plans to heavily promote in 2025 is the film industry happenings, which take place year-round throughout the community.
According to the City of Abbotsford, the film industry is responsible for bringing more than $3.6 million to Abbotsford in 2024 alone thanks to the 61 projects that were filmed in the community last year, which is an increase from the 59 projects and $2.5 million in economic impact in 2023.
It’s this popularity with the film industry that has many people referring to this city as Abbywood, which Seeley said she would like to see encouraged even further with the new upcoming program.
“We are proud to partner on Cineventure, a new B.C. initiative that will focus much of our marketing efforts on promoting Abbotsford as a premier destination for film tourism,” Seeley said.
While certain aspects of tourism in Abbotsford have
been thriving in recent years, Seeley explained that the community is struggling with maintaining the same number of accommodation stays that had been recorded post-pandemic, which is a problem area that she and the Tourism Abbotsford team will work hard to overcome this year.
“In 2024, accommodation stays experienced a decline as post-COVID travel demand stabilized, pipeline workers left the community, and economic uncertainty grew,” she said. “For 2025, our primary focus will be driving overnight visitation, a strategy designed to benefit all tourism stakeholders and bolster the local business economy.”
Seeley emphasized that having a healthy supply and popularity of events is a vital component of Abbotsford’s tourism landscape, so her team plans to do whatever they can to help local events thrive.
“We remain committed to working alongside our Events Advisory Committee to refine policies and practices that support our event strategy, while fostering growth in sports and community events.Together, these efforts will continue to enhance Abbotsford’s reputation as a vibrant destination.”
Continued on page 19
The Reach Gallery Museum hosts art exhibits and interactive classes that draw people to Abbotsford from all over the Lower Mainland and beyond.
Plenty
to see and do around town
Continued from page 17
10 Things to Do on a Rainy Day in Abbotsford
Rainy days are a regular occurrence throughout the Lower Mainland, but Tourism Abbotsford doesn’t want the fun to stop just because things get a little wet outside, which is why they’ve put together this list of exciting rainy day activities throughout the city.
1) Break out the board games and tasty food at Boardwalk Cafe and Games
2) Get in a round of (miniature) golf at Castle Fun Park’s indoor course
3) Sip local wines from the inside of a cozy glass dome
4) Explore the world of art at The Reach Gallery Museum
5) Knock down a few pins at Galaxy Bowl
6) Fill up on tasty beer and pub food at Trading Post Eatery
7) Meet some furry friends at EcoFarm
8) Unleash your inner artist at The Clay Cottage
9) Carve up some ice at the Abbotsford Recreation Centre
10) Get your blood pumping atTopSpin Pickleball Club
Tourism Abbotsford encourages people to stop by the Abbotsford Recreation Centre and strap on some skates during the rainy weather.
Greenhouse growing
According to the 2024 Vital Signs Report by the Abbotsford Community Foundation, the amount of Abbotsford farmland being used for greenhouses has increased by more than 45 hectares in the past 12 years, marking a 37 per cent increase in greenhouse growing capacity.
“Agriculture is
now a technologically advanced industry, requiring significant research and development capabilities to survive modern challenges, including climate change.”
- Dr. Lenore Newman
Farmers lean on greenhouses to keep up with food demand
Almost half of Abbotsford residents can’t afford enough of preferred food for family
With the growing population, changing climate, and rising inflation of prices, Abbotsford and many other agricultural-based cities in B.C. are having to get more creative in how they attempt to keep up with the constantly increasing demand for food.
For the city’s 1,254 farms, this has meant embracing a variety of emerging trends, including the transition towards using greenhouses.
According to the 2024 Vital Signs Report by the Abbotsford Community Foundation, the amount of Abbotsford farmland being used for greenhouses has increased by more than 45 hectares in the past 12 years, marking a 37 per cent increase in greenhouse growing capacity.
This is especially useful for a community that is so involved in berry farming, with Abbotsford responsible for producing a third of the province’s entire blueberry crop.
In addition to producing a significant supply of
blueberries, Abbotsford also contains approximately 14,000 dairy cows and produces nearly 650 million eggs per year.
It’s this diversity in farming land use that makes the region such an important part of the agricultural sector for both the province and country as a whole, explained Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce CEO Alex Mitchell.
“The Fraser Valley is key to Canada’s food security,” Mitchell said, calling on all levels of government to dedicate more funding to the local agricultural industry.
While utilizing more greenhouse facilities has helped local farmers, Dr. Lenore Newman, research chair of the UFV Food and Agriculture Institute, explained that this isn’t enough to address the prominent issue of food security in the province.
“Agriculture is now a technologically advanced industry, requiring significant research and development capabilities to survive modern challenges, including climate change,” Newman said.
She agreed with Mitchell’s statement that all levels of government need to come together to properly fund the agricultural industry in the Fraser Valley, explaining that agriculture is the only technological area that doesn’t have a national funding body for post-secondary institutes.
A survey run by the Abbotsford Community Foundation in the summer of 2024 revealed that Abbotsford residents want to be able to help local farmers, with 62 per cent of people agreeing that they would be willing to pay more for locally grown food in order to support those involved in the Abbotsford agricultural sector. This is especially significant given the fact that the same survey reported that only 55 per cent of Abbotsford residents were able to comfortably purchase enough of their preferred foods to support their household. One of the most common ways that residents continue
Abbotsford is responsible for producing a third of the province’s blueberry supply, with dairy cows and egg production also major components of the local agricultural sector.
Farm Market makes impact
Continued from page 20
to support local farmers is through the Abbotsford Farm and Country Market, which generates approximately $700,000 annually in sales, with a total estimated impact of more than $1 million on the Abbotsford economy, according to a recent study released by the BC Association of Farmers’ Markets.
The Abbotsford Farm and Country Market features between 35 and 40 local vendors each week, and will return for the 2025 season on Saturday, May 3, with plenty of local produce and other agricultural items expected to be on display.
Agrifair celebrates all things agricultural in Abbotsford every summer. (John Morrow/Abbotsford News)
In response to these hefty 25 per cent tariffs, the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce is encouraging Canadian residents to shop local as much as possible while the chamber continues its work advocating against these tariffs.
“We have been very intentional in reaching our next generation of entrepreneurs and empowering women in leadership.”
- Acting CEO Craig Toews
Strengthening our economy: The power of supporting local
As British Columbia’s fifth-largest municipality, Abbotsford is home to a thriving community of over 164,500 residents. With 64% of the workforce employed within the city, supporting local businesses is more than just a choice; it is a fundamental driver of economic stability and community well-being. However, Abbotsford’s local businesses face mounting challenges. Rising rent, increasing labour costs, and growing operational expenses are putting pressure on retailers and service providers. Additionally, global trade uncertainties and potential tariffs on goods are affecting supply chains and pricing, making it harder for small businesses to remain competitive.
Now more than ever, Abbotsford residents have a crucial role to play. Choosing to shop, dine, and invest locally helps create jobs, strengthen the tax base, and encourage reinvestment in the city’s economy, fostering sustainable growth. With 7,700 businesses operating in Abbotsford, these enterprises are a major
businesses not only sustains livelihoods but also fosters innovation, helping local entrepreneurs turn ideas into thriving enterprises. A strong, engaged community is essential to maintaining Abbotsford’s reputation as a centre for business growth and opportunity.
“Our local businesses are the heart of our community; they create jobs, support local initiatives, and shape the unique character of our neighbourhoods. By choosing to shop local, we invest in our economy, strengthen connections, and ensure a vibrant future for the place we call home,”said Craig Toews, Acting CEO of the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce.
source of employment, particularly in manufacturing, which supports over 8,000 jobs and provides stable, well-paying opportunities for skilled workers.
Abbotsford is also a hub for entrepreneurship, with 3,000 home-based businesses contributing to the city’s economic landscape. Supporting these small
How to Support Local Businesses in Abbotsford
Shop Local First – Before heading to a big-box store or making an online purchase, consider a local business for groceries, day-to-day items, and gifts. Dine at Local Restaurants – Supporting locally
The Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce is expanding the services offered in its Women’s Leadership Council and Company of Young Professionals and Entrepreneurs Program in 2025.
Global trade uncertainties are slowing traffic at the Sumas border crossing. (Abbotsford News file photo)
Several business events planned
Continued from page 22
owned restaurants, cafes, and bakeries helps keep the city’s culinary landscape vibrant and diverse.
Hire Local Services –Whether you need a plumber, contractor, accountant, or personal trainer, hiring locally keeps money circulating within the community.
Promote Local Businesses Online – A simple review, social media post, or word-of-mouth
recommendation can significantly boost a local business.
Supporting these businesses ensures continued economic growth, job creation, and a thriving community. By choosing to shop, dine, and hire locally, Abbotsford residents can make a lasting impact on the city’s future—one purchase at a time.
Craig Toews is the acting CEO of the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce and has helped guide the chamber through a tumultuous year for many local businesses.
