Simply click on the hi-lighted name to be taken directly to the company web site for rates, dates and general information.

• 

  Wild Play in Maple Ridge

  Summer time is play time at the newly opened Wild Play Element Park in Maple Ridge.  Kids of all ages to those who still have some kid left in them will love the ‘monkido’ course – as in Monkey See, Monkey Do,  across Tarzan swings, zip lines, scramble nets, swinging logs and other elements between six and 60 feet above the ground!

• Minter Gardens is located only 90 minutes from Vancouver in Rosedale (Chilliwack area).  The gardens are gorgeous right now and if you visit the web site, there is a 50% admission coupon for the rest of July.  Stroll the gardens from 4p to 7p daily with this super discount.

• 

  Pathways Guides lead canoeists on Bowron Lakes

  Voted one of the Top Ten Canoe Trips in the world by Outside Magazine, head to Bowron Lakes for a getaway that is exceptional for the novice to expert canoeist. Your guides at Pathways ensure a trip of a lifetime!

• Tour beautiful Quadra Island on a rented scooter.  Pick up your rental and picnic lunch at April Point Resort & Spa then head over to Rebecca’s Spit for a relaxing day at the beach.

• Head out to Fort Langley for a day exploring the medley of shops – garden, clothing, ANTIQUES and cafes serving up delicious local treats.  The Fort hosts special events aimed at families throughout summer.

• 

  Celebrate BC Day at Sun Peaks Resort

  Surf’s up, all you surfer dudes who don’t have time to visit Tofino.  Head over to Jordan River in the Juan de Fuca Provincial Park located approximately 60 km driving northwest from Victoria.  Kayaking is superb in summer.

• Awe-inspiring mountain scenery to meadow flowers and gently flowing streams beckon at an Island Lake Lodge hiking holiday. Located in the Kootenay Rockies, outside of Fernie, there are trails for all fitness levels.

• Book a weekend away that celebrates family this coming BC Day at Sun Peaks Resort.  The cozy alpine village will be alive with free entertainment both days including corn husking, scarecrow making and water balloon competitions at the spectacular outdoor Farmer’s Market held in the village on Sunday.

• A great family outing that includes fresh air and fantastic bird watching is a trip to the George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary in Delta. Open from 9a to 4p daily, with no pets or bicycles allowed!

• Attending musicals at Theatre Under The Stars (TUTS as it’s known by locals),  in Stanley Park has been a Vancouver summertime tradition since 1940!  With BEST PRICED tickets starting at only $29, this year delivers something new with all seats being reserved. Call ahead, go online or simply show up and take a chance on getting in.

I’ve had the great fortune to get to know the always wonderful, Chef Eric Pateman of Edible BC quite well over the past few years.  His energy and passion for food and a healthy lifestyle are infectious!

If you haven’t been to his retail store on Granville Island, be sure to put it on the list of must visits when in Vancouver.  All the products sold are either grown and made in BC, or from points across Canada; with many being organically produced.  Eric and his team are thoroughly versed on the exciting culinary growth taking place here in particular, within British Columbia.  From small mom and pop operations to larger suppliers who are meeting the demands of a savvy consumer, this is a great spot to shop for your home or a gift. 

The recipe below is suitable for Celiacs and is absolutely yummy!  Plus Spot Prawns are readily available right now.  All of the ingredients listed are from Granville Island Market, however you should be able to locate them in your local community.

www.edible-britishcolumbia.com

BC SPOT PRAWN BISQUE (Serves  eight)

Pair with:  Sumac Ridge Stellar’s Jay Brut 2002

Ingredients

• Head and Bodies of 2 lbs of BC Spot Prawns (Seafood City)
• 1 Onion, Finely Chopped (Green Grocer)
• 2 Large Carrots, Roughly Chopped (Green Grocer)
• 4 Large Ripe Tomatoes, Roughly Chopped (Green Grocer)
• ¼ C Brandy (Liquor Store)
• 500 ml Whipping Cream (Milk Man)
• 2 Tbsp Lobster Oil (Edible BC)
• Dungeness Crab

Method

Place the prawn heads, onion, carrot, tomatoes and brandy in an 8L stock pot and cover with enough water to go approximately 4 inches above all the ingredients. The exact amount of water does not matter since you will be reducing this stock.

Bring the pot to a soft boil and decreasing the heat, simmer until the liquid is almost level with the ingredients.

Using a stick blender or traditional blender, puree the ingredients together and return to the pan and reduce again by half.

Remove the pan from the heat and strain the liquid through a very fine strainer twice and return to a clean saucepan.

Add the cream and return the pan to a low heat and reduce the liquid by half again.

Taste the soup and season if required, but most likely all the sweetness from the tomatoes and carrots, and the saltiness of the prawns will create an almost perfect taste.  Just before serving, garnish with the lobster oil and Dungeness crab meat.

Sit down and enjoy with family and friends!

Rated Abbotsford’s number one favourite community event last year, Agrifair will turn B.C. Day into a five-day-long weekend party, July 30 to Aug. 3 at the Abbotsford Exhibition Grounds.

Highlighting this year’s fair will be the famous RCMP Musical Ride on Sunday and Monday. The ride, featuring the “dome” once on the back of our $50 bill and culminating with its famous “charge,” is a breath-taking event to dazzle fans of all ages.

On Friday, Saturday and Sunday, enjoy the Mighty Fraser Pro Rodeo, the only Canadian Professional Rodeo Association-sanctioned rodeo in the Lower Mainland. Also returning for three shows daily is the popular West Coast Lumberjack Show.

New at Agrifair this year will be the BCLC 2010 Winter Games Dome – four interconnected 30-foot domed tents covering about 5,000 square feet. Ski through winter woods and shoot targets in a simulated biathlon course, test your wrist shot in a hockey rink or experience bobsleigh in the ImmersaDome. Best of all, adult visitors could win tickets to the 2010 Winter Games in Vancouver-Whistler.

Music is always a big part of Agrifair and the Main Stage will be filled with outstanding local and regional entertainers. Enjoy Canada’s New Country Gentleman Jack Jackson on Thursday; Canadian Idol finalist Greg Neufeld of Abbotsford on Friday; The Higgins, winners of six B.C. Country Music Association awards in 2008, on Saturday; and Ken Holliday as

Rod Stewart on Monday.

On Sunday, come early to enjoy a free pancake breakfast and the Psalm 23 Gospel Celebration with Debbie Fortnum and the MEI Kid’s Worship Choir.

Of course, Agrifair is, at its heart, an agricultural fair, with competitions, demonstrations and displays of a wide variety of livestock and poultry. Highlights include the Country Horse Classic and 4-H competitions in horses, cattle, sheep, pigs, goats and dogs.

Admission is still only $9 for adults and $7 for students.

Get all the details at www.agrifair.ca

David Hancock and Karen Bills of Hancock Wildlife Foundation View Eagles

And while you’re visiting the area, check out the scenery aboard a riverboat tour with Fraser River Safari.  For schedules and tour details visit www.fraserriversafari.com.

Sandpiper Golf Resort's Owner, Betty Anne Faulkner and eagle,Sonsie share a wink

The Greater Vancouver Zoo is working with the team at Xa:ytem Interpretive Centre  during the festival as well.  Drop by to see the live exhibit of the Great Horned Owl, Barn Owl and maybe, if you’re lucky, Meredith the Bald Eagle may be visiting.  Xa:ytem features local native art and gifts in their First Nations gift gallery too.  There are great gift ideas for Christmas.  For directions and hours of operation visit www.xaytem.ca.

Extend your eagle viewing adventure with an overnight stay at Sandpiper Golf Resort and Rowena’s Inn.  This exquisite heritage Manor is the former summer home of the Pretty Family. Filled with favourite family antiques and heirlooms, including a photo wall revealing the faces of the family behind the home, the ambiance is cultured and luxurious.  Enjoy a lavish hot and cold breakfast in the solarium located off the main dining lounge, or stay in one of the four west coast chic cabins – each complete with king-sized bed, soaker jacuzzi tub and river rock fireplace – a perfect retreat to relax with a glass of wine while admiring the view out over the river.  Whether you choose to stay at the Inn or in a cabin, the eagles will soar past gracing you with their majesty.  Visit www.sandpiperresort.ca for package details.

The Orphaned Wildlife Rehabilitation Society – OWL – is a dynamic organization comprised of people who care deeply about the safety of birds of prey.  The web site offers information on educational programs and special events, as well as contact information should you site a bird in need.  Please visit www.owlcanada.ca.

All Photos Courtesy of R. Bond, CtoC Productions

Interior cabin at Sandpiper Golf Resort and Rowena's Inn

Cozy up in this romantic cabin with someone you love.

Easily one of the most accessible romantic getaways in the lower mainland is at Rowena’s Inn on the River in Harrison Mills.

Located less than two hours from Vancouver, half the fun is getting there. The colours of autumn fuse together like a cozy quilt as you travel along Highway 7. Once you arrive at Rowena’s the warmth, elegance and especially the intimacy of the Inn and its nearby cottages provides the perfect setting to unwind together. Exquisitely decorated with lavish antique furnishings collected for decades by family members, the Inn’s guest rooms and public areas evoke a luxurious standard from a by-gone era, yet remain completely comfortable and relaxing. More recently built, The Cottages offer authentic west coast ambiance with the finest linens, soaker tubs, river rock fireplaces and a cozy seating area from which to take in the soothing views of Harrison River. Sit back, light the fire and savour the complimentary wine and fresh fruit with cheese. Kick back for a few days either exploring the fascinating history of the area – the Pretty family, who own and operate Rowena’s and the adjacent Sandpiper Golf Course and Club – are descendants of one of BC’s founding timber barons, Charles Nelson Pretty.

A challenging but idyllic spot for a hole-in-one.

Great golf, nearby hikes and gentle bike trails are right out the front door affording easy outdoor adventures. Then, as you head back to Vancouver, take the scenic drive back via Highway 7 and be sure to stop at Xa:ytem Long House. This fascinating First Nations cultural attraction provides a most unique opportunity to learn about the history and culture of the Sto:lo, the ‘people of the river’ who have lived in the Fraser Valley for centuries. An advanced society of people who fished, harvested the forests systematically and traveled long distances to trade, the Sto:lo culture is steeped in ceremonial traditions from which all peoples might benefit. Xa:ytem interpreters share their heritage through engaging inter-active displays, Monday through Friday, year round.

Get The Calendar

Harrison Sandpiper Golf Resort

One of the best times of year to visit Harrison Mills and Harrison Hot Springs – only twenty minutes apart by car, is most definitely in the fall. Sturgeon and salmon fishing are popular, as are guided wildlife tours. One of my favourites? Heading out with the Charlie family and their tour company, Sasquatch Tours. From the traditional First Nations welcome dock-side, to touring the lake aboard a certified power boat, the tours provide a unique look into local history.

BC Sportfishing Group, also located in Harrison Hot Springs, offer guides, equipment and incredibly good times for fishing and wildlife tours down the Harrison River.

Mark off November 21 and 22 for the annual Fraser Valley Bald Eagle Festival. If you’ve never been to watch these majestic creatures return to a familiar nesting ground, this is a fantastic getaway. Pack up the kids and make it a day trip or better still, check out the accommodation packages at Tourism Harrison and go for the entire weekend!

Get Going

• Harrison information at www.tourismharrison.com.
• Fraser Valley golf is at www.fraservalleygolf.ca and for great sport fishing in this area, visit www.bcsportfishinggroup.ca.
• Visit Xa;ytem Lodge at www.xaytem.ca
• The Bald Eagle Festival site is www.fraservalleybaldeaglefestival.ca
• Book your getaway at www.rowenasinn.com or call toll free to 1.800.661.5108

April 18 – May 2

Downtown Art Walk

Follow the yellow footprints to art works in the downtown core.

www.downtownabbotsford.com

June 7

BC Lions

Training Camp

The CFL football squad is back at Abbotsford’s Rotary Stadium to get ready for the coming season.

July 4-5

Abbotsford Berrybeat Festival

The 28th annual Abbotsford Berrybeat Festival is a family-friendly country street festival. Celebrate the bounty of one of the world’s best and most beautiful berry-producing communities.

www.downtownabbotsford.com

July 31 – Aug. 3

Abbotsford Agrifair

One of Abbotsford’s most popular festivals, the Agrifair is a showcase of our agriculture community, and includes a three-day rodeo, lumberjack show and lots of entertainment.

www.agrifair.ca

July 31 – Aug. 9

World Police &

Fire Games

Today, the World Police & Fire Games is a spectacular international sporting event, featuring police officers, firefighters, customs and correction officers from around the world. This year’s event will be hosted in the Fraser Valley, and Albert Dyck Park will be one of the venues hosting these amazing games.

www.2009wpfg.ca

Aug. 7-9

Abbotsford International

Airshow

B.C.’s favourite summer event returns in full force this August! The Canadian Forces Snowbirds are headlining the Centennial of Flight along with special guests the F-86 Sabre, Golden Centennaire Tutor and the CF-18 Hornet Demo.

www.abbotsfordairshow.com

Aug. 19-23

BC Summer Swimming Championships

Centennial Pool in Abbotsford plays host to the Speed Swimming events.

www.bcssa.bc.ca

Sept. 4-5

Canadian National Professional Truck Driving Championships

Top truck drivers from across Canada will compete in a skills competition like no other!

Sept. 18-19

Mennonite Central Committee Relief Sale

Come and enjoy great food, entertainment, quilt auction, crafts and much more. Great fun for the whole family.

Sept. 26

2nd Annual Abbotsford Multicultural Festival

This lively festival features cultural and entertainment groups, organizations, food

and more.

www.abbyfest.com;

and culture scene. The Reach Gallery Museum Abbotsford opened on Sept. 22, 2008 and in the first six months of operation has already seen thousands of visitors and become a fixture in the community.

The welcome figure, Xay teluk, carved by premier Salish artist Stan Greene and Tsimishian artist Reynold Collins greets visitors in his permanent location in the foyer of this new home for arts and cultural activities in Abbotsford and the region.

Preserving and sharing the stories of Abbotsford’s rich and diverse cultural heritage, showcasing the best in arts from both inside and outside the community, this engaging and dynamic gathering place is committed to excellence and quality programming and exposing the public to the multi-disciplinary, inspiring and provocative world of arts and culture. This is the mission of The Reach Gallery Museum.

The inaugural museum installation People of the River, Valley and Land, which runs until Sept. 6, 2009, animates these themes with artifacts, photographs, stories, five commissioned art installations and a digital time map (a favourite of young and old alike).

People of the Valley highlights the St

Relax, balance and energize with spa services that melt away all of your cares and distractions as you unwind in luxurious relaxation lounges and private treatment rooms.

It’s the perfect way to get away from it all.

While these soothing environments are popular with wedding parties and graduations, they also have a steady stream of clients who rely on professional services on a regular basis.

Basic spa treatments are massage, facial, body treatment, manicure and pedicure, but some spas also offer hair removal, makeup application and microdermabrasion.

Some spas offer treatments for both men and women, or specialized packages for couples.

Arrive early at the spa so you are not rushed. You will also have time to relax and enjoy the sauna or steam before your treatment.

Our spas have something for everyone – whether you live here or you are a visitor.

The basic spa treatments are massage, facial, body treatment, manicure and pedicure.

A massage will help you relax and get rid of muscle tension. Experts say a Swedish massage is a good place for beginners.;

Located at 33800 King Rd., the new building will have 7,000 seats for hockey and 8,500 seats for other entertainment when it opens in May.

A deal has already been struck to bring the Calgary Flames’ farm team, based in the American Hockey League, to Abbotsford as the building’s major tenant, however league approval is still pending.

What is known is the date for the first entertainment event, a rock concert on May 9 with the group Third Day.

Having sold more than six million albums worldwide, Third Day has garnered 25 number-one singles during its 17-year career, and also won numerous Grammy and Dove awards. Last year, the band won the 2008 American Music Award for Favourite Contemporary Inspirational Artist.

Also booked is the Monster Truck Spectacular, slated for May 30 and 31. The event features five monster trucks, including the world champion Bounty Hunter and the world champion female driver Kristy Edge in Jurassic Attack.

There will be plenty of raucous action when the superstars of TNA Wrestling come to town. The pro wrestling circuit arrives on June 5.

For more details and a calendar of event, visit: www.abbotsfordcentre.ca;

be surprised.

Whether you are a long-time resident or a newcomer to our community, you may be surprised by just how many fine-dining establishments call Abbotsford home.

You don’t have to travel to Vancouver to get a great meal. Why not spend a little time sampling the local cuisine? Abbotsford boasts restaurants and eateries from fine dining to the exotic, from family fare to fast food and from formal elegance to blue jeans.

Local restaurants take full advantage of the Fraser Valley’s agricultural roots as many of them serve farm-fresh, locally grown products.

For international dining, this city offers everything from Italian, German and Greek to Chinese and Indian fare, just to name a few. Maybe you are looking for a casual and relaxed atmosphere or perhaps your taste leans more towards fine dining.

No matter what tempts your appetite, Abbotsford has it all. In the summertime, many of our local establishments offer outdoor seating so you can dine, get a little sun and take in the beauty that is the Fraser Valley. From pizza to pannini, from hamburgers to high-class cuisine, Abbotsford can satisfy your carvings.

No matter what you like to eat, or how much you want to spend, our restaurants will leave you feeling full and happy.;