Congratulations to the many downtown businesses who were voted by the people of Chilliwack in the 2012 edition of The Chilliwack Progress A-List, including:

• Downtown Chilliwack BIA Party in the Park (finalist, Best Place to Watch a Show/Concert)
• Downtown Chilliwack BIA Party in the Park (winner, Best Place for Family Entertainment)
• Echo Room (winner, Best Place to Go Dancing)
• Downtown Chilliwack BIA Party in the Park (finalist, Best Place to Go Dancing)
• Starbucks (winner, Best Spot for Free WiFi)
• Decades Coffee Club (finalist, Best Spot for Free WiFi)
• Tim Hortons (finalist, Best Spot for Free WiFi)
• www.theprogress.com (winner, Best Local Business Web Site)
• www.downtownchilliwack.com (finalist, Best Local Business Web Site)
• Chilliwack Progress (winner, Best Local Classified Listings or Network)
• Star 98.3 (winner, Best Chilliwack Facebook Business Page)
• Fraser Valley Meats (finalist, Best Chilliwack Facebook Business Page)
• @TheProgress (winner, Best Chilliwack Twitter Feed to Follow)
• Safeway (finalist, Best Loaf of Bread)
• Jim's Pizzeria (winner, Best Pizza)
• Panago Pizza (finalist, Best Pizza)
• District Public House (finalist, Best Pub Grub)
• District Public House (finalist, Best Burger)
• Tokyo Grill (finalist, Best Japanese Food/Sushi)
• Capital Restaurant (winner, Best Chinese Food)
• Gingko Chinese Food (finalist, Best Chinese Food)
• Rustica's Ristorante (finalist, Best Italian Food)
• Rendezvous (finalist, Best Greek Food)
• Chilies Thai Cuisine (finalist, Best Ethnic Food)
• Capital Restaurant (finalist, Best Ethnic Food)
• Gingko Chinese Food (finalist, Best Take-Out Food)
• Subway (winner, Best Fast Food)
• McDonald's (finalist, Best Fast Food)
• Subway (finalist, Best Lunch)
• Dakota's Restaurant (finalist, Best Dinner)
• Decades Coffee Club (winner, Best Coffee)
• Tim Hortons (finalist, Best Coffee)
• Starbucks (finalist, Best Coffee)
• Dairy Queen (winner, Best Dessert)
• Decades Coffee Club (finalist, Best Dessert)
• Bravo Restaurant & Lounge (winner, Best Fine Dining)
• Corky's Irish Pub (finalist, Best Pub/Lounge)
• Gord-Ray Men's Wear (finalist, Best Men's Clothing Store)
• Lolly's Fashion Lounge (winner, Best Women's Clothing Store)
• Payton & Buckle Fine Footwear (winner, Best Shoe Store)
• Silk & White Satin (finalist, Best Place to Buy a Dress/Gown)
• Gord-Ray Men's Wear (finalist, Best Place to Buy a Suit/Tux)
• Graham's Gifts (winner, Best Place for Knick-Knacks)
• Creekside Home Decor (finalist, Best Place for Knick-Knacks)
• Great Canadian Oil Change (winner, Best Place for an Oil Change)
• Mr. Lube (finalist, Best Place for an Oil Change)
• D'Cardos Mechanical Automotive Repair (finalist, Best Auto Repair Shop)
• Ken's Tire & Wheel (finalist, Best Tire Store)
• OK Tire (finalist, Best Tire Store)
• Toby's Car Detail (finalist, Best Car Detailing)
• Cheam Source for Sports (finalist, Best Sporting Goods Store)
• Shoppers Drug Mart (winner, Best Pharmacy)
• Pharmasave Chilliwack (finalist, Best Pharmacy)
• Safeway (finalist, Best Pharmacy)
• Safeway (winner, Best Grocery Store)
• PriceSmart (finalist, Best Grocery Store)
• The Town Butcher (finalist, Best Organic Store)
• Fraser Valley Meats (winner, Best Delicatessen)
• The Town Butcher (finalist, Best Delicatessen)
• Multi Pak Foods & Deli (finalist, Best Delicatessen)
• Fraser Valley Meats (winner, Best Butcher)
• The Town Butcher, finalist, Best Butcher)
• Fraser Valley Meats (winner, Best Fish/Seafood Store)
• The Town Butcher (finalist, Best Fish/Seafood Store)
• Pharmasave Chilliwack (finalist, Best Health Store)
• Oly's Pet Connection (winner, Best Pet Store)
• Jenny's Pet Food & Supplies (finalist, Best Pet Store)
• Video Station (finalist, Best Video Store)
• Cheeki Cherry (winner, Best Place to Buy that Romantic Gift)
• Soul 2 Sole (finalist, Best Facial)
• Nancy's Nails (finalist, Best Manicure/Pedicure)
• Bijou Body Salon (finalist, Best Hair Salon)
• Soul 2 Sole (finalist, Best Spa/Massage)
• Island Tan (finalist, Best Tanning Salon)
• Radical Distractionz (finalist, Best Tattoo Parlour)
• Young Street Dental (finalist, Best Dental Office)
• JC Audio (finalist, Best Home Entertainment)
• The Book Man (winner, Best Book Store)
• Teddy Bear Dreams (finalist, Best Children's Specialty Outlet)
• Lellow Kids Gear (finalist, Best Children's Specialty Outlet)
• Roblin Travel and Cruise (winner, Best Travel Agency)
• Cam Douglas - Bijou Bodysalon (finalist, Best Hair Stylist)
• J. Ballam Furniture Gallery (winner, Best Furniture Store)
• Wagner Appliances (finalist, Best Appliance Store)
• Logan's Home Hardware (winner, Best Hardware Store)
• Creekside Home Decor (winner, Best Home Decor Store)
• Chillibowl Lanes (finalist, Best Community Centre)
• Chilliwack Museum (winner, Best Historical Building)
• Paramount (finalist, Best Historical Building)
• Royal Hotel (finalist, Best Historical Building)
• Downtown Chilliwack BIA Party in the Park (winner, Best Community Event)
• Chilliwack Christmas Parade (finalist, Best Community Event)

Join Creekside Home Decor for their annual Christmas Open House on Wednesday, October 24 from 10:00am to 8:00pm. Every customer will receive a free gift with purchase (while quantities last), and there will be a free draw for a beautiful quilt as well. Start shopping for Christmas early! There will be traditional hot apple cider and ginger cookies prepared fresh by store owners Steve and Gail.

It's the most wonderful time of the year!

Visiting Dickens Sweets & British Museum is like stepping into another world. The exterior is painted with a mural that says The Old Curiosity Shop – paying homage to the inspiration of the long-established downtown business, Charles Dickens. Fred Hails, co-owner of the business said, “It is a trip down memory lane depicting the golden years of the British way of life as it used to be.”

Recently, I was invited to lunch in Oliver’s Tearoom at Dickens. From the moment I walked inside I was greeted by numerous friendly smiles and well-wishes. After browsing the British sweets and groceries in the front which included intriguing products like mushy peas, Branston pickles, ginger beer, marmite, and Birds custard, I was guided to the tea shop. I was surprised to discover that Dickens has over 150 loose leaf teas in their store.

The menu in Oliver’s Tearoom reminded me very much of what my great-grandmother would have loved. Many British favourites are featured including a number of different pies and pastries like Steak & Mushroom, Steak & Liver, and Chicken Pot Pie. I later found out these delectable items can be purchased to take home in another part of Dickens, Pickwick’s Pie Shop. Fred told me that often children’s tea parties are held at Oliver’s Tearoom.

After lunch Fred took me on a personal tour upstairs of the wonderful museum that he and his wife Anne have been curators of since 2002. It was there that I found myself most at home. Dickens’ British Museum has many unique exhibits including The History of the Royal Family, the famous Titanic display, a tribute to Charles Dickens, and an impressive World War II display highlighting the life of Sir Winston Churchill. Fred informed me that the Museum also hosts an extensive library of historical books that is frequented by university history students.

As I was about to leave, Fred shared with me one of his and Anne’s favourite charities, the Canadian Wheelchair Foundation. Through Fred’s involvement in the Rotary Club of Chilliwack, Dickens has been able to sponsor numerous wheelchairs for men, women and children who aren’t able to afford it. What a testament to Fred and Anne’s contribution to the community! Through business and philanthrophy, the Hails’ have given a sizeable gift to Chillwack. I am so thankful for the time I had to meet Fred for lunch at Dickens Sweets & British Museum.

For more information, visit www.dickenssweets.com

The Downtown Chilliwack BIA wishes to congratulate the following "Downtown Proud" businesses and individuals who were finalists in various categories at the 18th Annual Chilliwack Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards.

• Star 98.3 (nominated for Business of the Year)
• The Town Butcher (nominated for Business of the Year)
• Sutton Group Showplace Realty (nominated for Development Excellence)
• Harvest Store & Cafe (nominated for Dining Excellence)
• Kathy Funk (nominated for Citizen to be Recognized - Legacy Award)
• Chilliwack Hospital & Health Care Foundation (nominated for Service Club/Non-Profit of the Year)
• Downtown Chilliwack BIA (nominated for Service Club/Non-Profit of the Year)
• Desmond Devnich (nominated for Young Entrepreneur of the Year; Employee of the Year)
• Bill Turnbull (nominated for Young Entrepreneur of the Year)
• Christie Weightman (nominated for Young Entrepreneur of the Year)
• Baker Newby (nominated for Professional Services Award)
• Optimum Sport Performance (nominated for Professional Services Award)
• Scotiabank (nominated for Professional Services Award)
• The Coast Chilliwack Hotel (nominated for Sustainability Award)

For a full listing of nominees and event information, visit www.chilliwackchamber.com

They have already begun working with numerous clients in the downtown Chilliwack area, however the new WorkBC in the Chilliwack Business Centre is inviting BIA members to their Grand Opening Celebration on Friday, June 29 at 2:00pm, with the ribbon-cutting ceremony commencing at 3:00pm..

The Chilliwack WorkBC Employment Services Centre (ESC) serves as a one-stop employment services shop.  Whether you are looking for work, interested in changing jobs, enrolled in an apprenticeship program, receiving Provincial Income Assistance, receiving Federal Employment Insurance, or just interested in what’s happening in the local labour market, GT Hiring Solutions and WorkBC have all the information you need.

So why not stop by today and let WorkBC help you navigate the job search in this difficult economy.

It's the announcement we have all been waiting for! All eyes have been on Five Corners for many weeks as everyone has anticipated the re-opening of the old Vault Pub. Yes, the historic building has been newly renovated by Brad Stuart and others and they are stoked to introduce you to the brand new District Public House.

Upon entering, one is greeted by smiles and a laid-back, "sit wherever you like" approach. High ceilings create a very open, comfortable atmosphere with a variety of seating options. The warm fireplace is a welcome reprieve from the unseasonally cool temperatures this Spring. And, if the hockey game on the three big screens doesn't interest you, the floor-to-ceiling windows will certainly provide many opportunities for 'people-watching'.

Josh Jenkins is behind the bar, serving up local beer and wine and is always a great source for menu recommendations. They tell me a special Mamma Mia Pinot Gris is on it's way to wine collection.

The menu at District Public House is deliciously different from any other pub or restaurant in the area, including many custom burgers like the Stacker, the Ranchman, and the Butcher Block. Inside your burger - which can be well-done, medium, or rare - you might find pulled pork, yam fries, or onion rings! Another favourite menu item is the Loaded Nachos. Salads and other entrees also appear tasty.

All in all, the District Public House looks like it's ready to rock this summer. With a new look, new ownership, new staff and a new menu, District Public House at Five Corners is a great place to spend time with friends. Why not stop in on Sunday, June 24 for a burger and a beer while visiting the 10th Annual Village Classic Car Show?

For more information, visit www.facebook.com/DistrictPublicHouse

Harvest Store and Cafe opened to the delight of the locals in downtown Chilliwack this week. Ron and Kevin of the former Objekts on Wellington Avenue, have begun a new venture on Mill Street that combines two of my favourite passions, shopping and eating!

Local photographer, Peter Classen, calls Harvest Store and Cafe "an upscale dynamic pairing of great food, home baked goods and unique housewares, gifts and fashions."

A diverse and delicious variety of food and beverage options await you at this new, classy location adjacent Central Community Park. My personal favourite menu items include the Thai Chicken Wrap, Caprese Salad, and the Spicy Szechuan Chicken Rice Bowl. Breakfast is also served until 11:30am including three types of waffles - nutty, fruity, or meaty.

Visit the new Harvest Store and Cafe for a bright, urban shopping and dining experience.

(These low-quality pictures are my own. For professional images of the Harvest Store and Cafe, visit Peter Classen Photography on Facebook.)

If It Feels Good, Do it! – Music, Your Business & SOCAN

Music is one of the truly universal things that make people feel good all over the world. It also sells - ideas, services, products. The value of music to business owners is obvious and, in some cases, integral to their success. Imagine a dance club or an aerobics program without music. In restaurants, music helps create the desired atmosphere. At hockey games and other sporting events, songs are used to pump up the crowd and the home team. When music is performed or communicated to the public, the people who write and publish these songs must be compensated for it. In Canada, the Society of Composers, Authors and Music Publishers of Canada (SOCAN), is the organization that makes sure customers acquire the correct licence when music is publicly performed.

“The BCRFA appreciates the opportunity to work closely with SOCAN. Through proactive communication and industry events, our partnership is able to keep BC restaurants better informed and up-to-date on music licensing.” (Sharron Tulk, Director of Marketing & Member Relations, BC Restaurant and Foodservices Association)

SOCAN provides music users, or customers, with a “one-stop-shop.” For the applicable licence fee, we offer access to virtually the world’s entire repertoire of copyright-protected music. We also support many associations across Canada through education outreach initiatives, attending trade shows, sponsorships and holding memberships. As well, SOCAN is a not-for-profit organization, and more than 80% of all monies collected from SOCAN customers are distributed back to the writers and publishers who are entitled to it.

 "Many people don't realize that SOCAN is a not-for-profit organization owned and controlled by the actual songwriters and publishers. We receive money when our songs are played during live performances, on the radio and TV, but I know people also enjoy dancing and listening to music while eating and socializing so collecting money for that is equally as important. We love to be able to make music for a living and part of that is continuing to write great songs. SOCAN actually gets us paid for working! Now who doesn't want that and think it's fair?!" (Jacob Hoggard, lead singer, Hedley)

SOCAN helps music creators – songwriters, composers, lyricists and their publishers, as well as members of affiliated international performing rights organizations – by selling access to their music based on licence fees set out by the Copyright Board of Canada in tariffs published in the Canada Gazette. By paying their licence fees, SOCAN customers also have a hand in the success of SOCAN members.

 “I am attached to SOCAN for survival. No matter what goes wrong within the industry, SOCAN is right there every 3 months with my performing rights cheque. For many years, the March SOCAN cheque was how I paid my income tax. The assistance they've given me over the years has been invaluable. SOCAN is there for the new up-and-coming writer as well as the established ones. I am proud to be a member of SOCAN.” (Randy Bachman, founder of the Guess Who and Bachman-Turner Overdrive)

In the end, not only does music bring value to business, but securing a licence is the right thing to do… so, if it feels good, do it! Obtain the appropriate SOCAN licence(s) for your business and know you play a part in supporting the music creators of the world.

For full details on SOCAN and our tariffs, visit www.socan.ca or give us a call at our toll free numbers. For new customers, please call 1-866-944-6210, and for existing customer queries, please call 1-866-944-6223.

Well-known by hobbyists and RC enthusiasts, X-Treme Hobbies and Karts moved to Mill Street last month, exciting many neighbouring business owners and shoppers.

Rockets, puzzles, rock tumblers,  metal detectors and many other products for the whole family are now available in downtown Chilliwack.

The Chilliwack RC Club tells me they love to come downtown to find parts for their radio-controlled planes, trucks, cars and boats.

It is a perfect addition to Mill Street. Mothers and daughters can go for tea for Apeldoorn's or shop for something lovely at The Button Box, while fathers and sons can test out the new toys and models in stock at X-Treme Hobbies.

For more information, contact Mike or Randy at X-Treme Hobbies, in-store at 9369A Mill Street, via phone (604) 703-0300 or email info@x-tremehobbies.com

You can also become a fan of X-Treme Hobbies on Facebook here!

Scott Riley of The Morning Show on Star 98.3 takes his new helicopter for a spin in the studio during a New Business Profile with the BIA's Kathy Funk.

Photo courtesy of Star 98.3's Leanne Adderley.

Chilliwack Community Services, Chilliwack MCFC, Chilliwack RCMP, PCRS, Chilliwack Society for Community Living invite you to attend these important events to help raise awareness for the "Stop the sexual exploitation of our children and youth awareness week."

Monday, March 5 - Candlelight Vigil. This event will be hosted in partnership with the Youth Matters Committee at Chilliwack City Hall at 7:00pm, showing: "Where Did You Sleep Last Night? - a film by the National Film Board of Canada.

Tuesday, March 6 - Alicia Balex presents at Chilliwack Middle School to ninth grade students from 12:45 to 1:45pm. Alicia is an auxilary members at PCRS and had done many presentations on sexual exploitation around the community. RCMP will also be in attendance.

Wednesday, March 7 - Alicia Balex presents at A.D. Rundle Middle School students from 1:00 to 2:00pm. Alicia is an auxilary members at PCRS and had done many presentations on sexual exploitation around the community. RCMP will also be in attendance.

Thursday, March 8 - Jassy Bindra, RCMP coordinator for human trafficking, makes a public presentation at Chilliwack City Hall council chambers from 1:00 to 3:00pm.

Friday, March 9 - Merlyn Horton, Executive Director of the Safe Online Outreach Society (SOLOS) makes a presentation designed for professionals, parents and youth at City Life Church at 1:00pm. Topics include: emerging trends in online youth culture, high risk activities online, the nature of sexual exploitation in cyberspace and internet safety tips and resources.

For more information or to register for any of the above events, please contact Amanda Johson at 604.794.3246 or johnsona@comserv.bc.ca or James Morgan at 604.793.7748 or james.r.morgan@gov.bc.ca

Our friends at The Book Man and 98.3 Star FM challenged the Downtown BIA staff to take the challenge to read for 20 minutes a day for 21 days as part of the City Wide Literacy Challenge and we said "yes!"

Dependable, cheerful Downtown streetcleaner, Harold Zinke, takes time during his lunch break to devour the popular Twilight series. Executive Director, Kathy Funk, spends part of her evenings taking in Your Dreams Are Still Possible by inspirational speaker Peter Legge. Desmond Devnich, Coordinator, has been studying a President Ronald Reagan biography.

I'll update you next week on what Office Manager, Debbie Biggin, and streetcleaner Sarena Myers have been reading during the City Wide Literacy Challenge. For more information on this Chilliwack Learning Community Society initative, visit www.chilliwacklearning.com

Great things are happening in downtown Chilliwack along Yale Road East, just a block or two from Five Corners. Limited Editions Clothing & Collectibles has set up shop retailing a wide variety of goods. If you're interested in vintage cars and car culture, why not visit owner Kelly Ingram today? Mens and womens clothing, decals, records, and a menagerie of collectible items like Elvis, Marilyn Monroe and King Kong are available in this unique shopping experience.

Kelly tells me he chose to locate his new business right in the heart of downtown Chilliwack because it has been the center of Chilliwack's Village Classic Car Show. I am thrilled to share with you Limited Editions Clothing & Collectibles on the 10th anniversary of our Village Classic. Don't wait to visit this great merchant until then - check out Limited Editions' Facebook page or go in-store at 46158 Yale Road today!

Congratulations to The Book Man for the best decorated store window this holiday season. Amber Short and her staff won a 'BC Resident's package' from the Coast Vancouver Airport Hotel, including one night accommodation, $25 Esso gas card and a $10 Tim Horton's card.

(Pictured above: Sara Anthony of The Book Man, Nietzsche the Cat, and Kathy Funk - Executive Director of the Downtown Chilliwack BIA).

Our Downtown is alive and doing well. The BIA is so proud of their award winning businesses, thirty one made the "A List" and fifty were finalists including our very own Party in the Park event which was recognized for 'Best Community Event' and runner up for the 'Best Place for Family Entertainment'. At the recent Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards, four awards were given to the following Downtown businesses; Mr. Lube Chilliwack, Wagner Appliances, Envision Financial, Stefanie Friend of the Coast Chilliwack Hotel. This is a testament to the superior customer service our merchants provide.  

Recently, I attended the Chamber of Commerce Business Conference.  One of the workshops I participating in focused on marketing one's business. Try something different that will draw attention to your business and make an impression. The example that was used was 'Pike's Place Market', where the fish store started throwing their fish and people would come to watch the unique sight and sales soared.

A fact that often goes unnoticed is how many new businesses have come downtown in this past year. Fifty seven have opened shop and this is something to celebrate.  

Through the Christmas season, we are dedicated to having events and activities that will draw shoppers downtown. We are dedicated to assist and support the membership throughout the year. Seasons greetings from the BIA staff.

Off The Mat Yoga is a community minded yoga studio located in the heart of Downtown Chilliwack. At Off The Mat Yoga, there is a class for everyone. All levels of health and ability are welcome and embraced. The studio provides levels of yoga for everyone from the very beginner practitioner to the advanced yogi. Yoga is designed to make individuals feel happy, healthy, and peaceful. Off The Mat Yoga wants to give as many people a chance to experience that as possible. In an effort to welcome everyone, this new yoga studio offers reasonable rates so that the peace and wellness that comes with yoga is accessible to all.

Yoga Gently

This class uses gentle, slower movements to promote relaxation and rejuventation of the body and mind. It is perfect for releasing tight joints, improving flexibility and cultivating a sense of inner peace. Great for anyone who is looking for a slower paced, relaxing class. Suitable for beginners.

Level 1 Hatha Yoga

A well-rounded practice which introduces the foundation poses and encourages students to develop a sense of what yoga can bring into one's life. Strength building, flexibility and good alignment are a focus of this class. Suitable for beginners.

Level 2 Hatha Yoga

This class will increase strength, flexibility and stamina. A faster paced class, with continued emphasis on breathing and the alignment of the body and mind. Builds on the foundation poses learned in Level 1 classes.

Vinyasa Yoga

This invigorating class involves fast paced, flowing postures to get you moving and breathing. Some arm balances and inversions will be included. This practice will help you to reduce stress as you build strength, stamina, flexibility and balance. Recommended for students with some previous experience in yoga.

For updated information, class prices and packages, or to learn more about yoga please visit www.offthematyoga.ca

9,000 People Celebrate Party in the Park Grand Finale

Earlier this year the Downtown Chilliwack Business Improvement Association (BIA) was awarded the 'Best in the West' trophy for the Coast Capital Savings Party in the Park, recognizing BC's best in the category of Marketing, Promotions & Special Events. This season spoke volumes to this award as thousands of people attended each week and the event was a huge success.

Ken Popove, chair of the BIA Special Events Committee commented, "It takes a lot of people to make this event successful and we could not have done it without our corporate sponsors, our great staff, the over 50 community volunteers who work countless hours and the people of this community who attend”.  Aaron Pritchett drew a large crowd along with the ever-popular Steve “Elvis” Elliot.  Closing the evening was Pardon My Striptease, a successful local band.

Kathy Funk, Executive Director said, “Another highlight was seeing ten year old Sequel Adamson win the family trip to Disney." Her dad said, “Sequel did it all on her own, reminding him weekly that they needed to go to Your Floors, sponsor of this contest, to pick up the clue and then off to enter at Party in the Park.” 

The return of the O’Connor Sunset Cruisin’ Car Show was also a highlight, with Grant Hangraf winning the People’s Choice trophy for his 1957 T-Bird. The Royal LePage Wheeler Cheam Night Market grew to over 95 vendors and the exciting Safeway/Prime Signs Family Fun Zone saw thousands of youngsters enjoy everything from Activity Centre, Lil' Crafters to the Lil' Gardeners.

 "The Party Goes Green" is a story that needs to be told about the countless volunteers who worked at the waste diversion stations, sponsored by the City of Chilliwack.  We were able to divert from the landfill over 65% of the waste generated at Party in the Park. The BIA also introduced reusable water bottles and Valley Water provided unlimited water as part of our initiative to go green.

The BIA is already actively seeking sponsors, volunteers and performers to be involved in next year’s event.

Have you heard about our new GETMOR Downtown Chilliwack customer rewards program? The Chilliwack BIA Marketing Committee is proud to launch its first customer rewards card campaign. It takes 30 seconds to sign up online (at www.downtownchilliwack.com/getmor) and won't cost you a cent to do so.

Once you have picked up your card from your favourite merchant or from the Downtown BIA office, you can look for that familiar lime green and orange logo in the windows of local stores. These merchants are offering special discounts and other offers to GETMOR cardholders. It could be 15% off your bill or a free tea with a sandwich purchase, or something even more wonderful!

You can also check the website, receive an email newsletter, or scan the barcode on GETMOR posters with your smartphone to learn about new GETMOR offers.

Shop Downtown, the right place to be.

As I sit here, looking out my office window, I realize just how blessed I am. I have an amazing job and the opportunity to work with a phenomenal team. I also understand what an incredible blessing it is to live and work here in Downtown Chilliwack. This tight-knit community--its unique businesses and restaurants--is where I proudly call home. I'm "the new guy" if you haven't guessed and am so thrilled to be part of this organization whose sole purpose is to make a positive difference in the community.

A measure of success at our weekly Party in the Park events this summer isn't merely the growing attendance, but the number of people in Central Community Park every Friday before 5:00 p.m. These are the people we love to work for. They bring their friends and relatives and are excited about the same things we're excited for; the live entertainment, the family activities, and the over 70 vendors in the Night Market.

Here at the BIA we are so excited to launch a new GETMOR customer rewards program and offer Downtown businesses grants for façade improvement. In conjunction with the City of Chilliwack, new stainless steel garbage receptacles and luscious flower beds are to be installed soon. This is progress!

I am so excited for the new projects our Downtown BIA will take on this Fall and in the coming year.

Life can be hard sometimes.  Your kids grow up and graduate and don't need you as much.  The Vancouver Canucks play one great game and then fall flat for the next one.  This spring has definately not been a great intro to summer.  Where did the sun go?  All our carefully constructed plans can be blown out the window in a few short seconds!  Then I look outside and see the new growth on the trees and the colorful display of newly planted flowers and I am truly comforted, if only for a minute or two.  Would I rather be a tree or a flower?  Hmmm....no not a good idea, as they get attacked by birds, insects and the human pest.  I believe I will continue on the path that I have been given and keep waiting for the warmth of the sun to warm me from the depth of my soul.  Life is truly unpredictable! 

ICBC's Crime Prevention Update Presents:

New Year?

Time to make resolutions...

But did you remember to renew your car insurance?

Don't Panic Do It Today!

Every day, our officers are finding expired insurance decals to give friendly reminders to. Whether you haven’t renewed, or just forgot to replace your decal, it is very important to display the correct decal to avoid being pulled over.

Don't Be One Of Them!

Hello, fellow patrons of our Downtown area!

Today's ICBC Crime Prevention Update is on the real crime statistics of the Downtown area:

Provided by Community Policing Services.

->Breaking & Enter : -24% from 2009

->Break & Enter on a Business: -37% from 2009

->Common Assault: -11% from 2009

->Robbery: -32% from 2009

  Here are a few tips and tricks to securing your home or business: 

-> Make sure all doors and windows lock effectively

-> INVEST IN AN ALARM SYSTEM! This should deter a criminal from attempting to break in.

-> For your business, make sure all windows have bars or something that can cover them to bar entry in the event of the window breaking.

-> For your home, in any sliding doors or windows place a block of wood on the sliding surface to avoid unwanted entry

-> Call police if you feel concerned or have someone attempting to break in.

Many thanks to Griffin Investigation & Security Services Ltd for their care and dilligence in continuing to make Downtown Chilliwack a beautiful & safe place to be!

Coast Capital Presents: Party in the Park 2011

Calling all volunteers & sponsors!

We need your help and support to make one of the most talked about community events of the summer even bigger this year! Each year has grown exponentially, and this year should be no exception. Come be a part of the fun and excitement!

-->We are expanding this year by having all eight nights a different theme. Some of these themes are Sock Hop night, Circus night, Mardi gras night, and Fairytale night. However, there are still sponsor openings on theme nights, please call Kathy at the BIA office to set up your appointment for a sponsorship consultation (604)-792-4576.

-->We are calling for anyone interested in volunteering their time and energy in one of our many family activity areas, staging areas or booths. No experience necessary, please call our office and set up a consultation with one of our special events coordinators; Debbie, or Jessica. Please have in mind any areas you would like to work in, and a list of interests.   Call (604)-792-4576

I was very honored to be part of an annual summer event, Party in the Park.  I was there every Friday night and I have some wonderful memories and pictures I would like to share with you.  I have put together some of my favorites from the eight weeks in a slide presentation.  If you were there this summer I hope they bring back fond memories of this amazing event and if you were not able to make it to the party maybe this video will encourage you to come out for the fun next year.  We have already started working on the plans for next year and it promises to be bigger and better than ever!  Check out the presentation: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100001135491699&v=app_2392950137#!/video/video.php?v=130827520298430

The Downtown Chilliwack BIA seventh Party in the Park for the summer of 2010 has ended and wow was it an amazing evening.  After the success of  our opening night I didn't believe we would be able to top it but I was wrong.  In my opinion, and going by the feedback I have received from the party attendees, the party has gotten better and more exciting  every week.  Kudos to our illustrious host, Trevor McDonald, who has found unique and talented musicians to perform on the Coast Capital Stage each and every Friday at Party in the Park.  Mandy Watts and her team have also been instrumental in putting together one of the biggest and best Night Markets in the Valley, with over 60 vendors each Friday night.  Our Safeway/Prime Signs Family Fun Zone has been a huge success this year with all the added activities for the children and I have had  many great volunteers to help me run the craft and bakers areas. The Sabrina vandenBrink sponsored facepainting area was also very popular and we must extend a big thanks to Carolyn and all her talented students.  This year we had four theme nights and I have received a tremendous amount of positive feedback, so I am going to add in another four additional themes for next year's event.  We would also like to thank the Chilliwack Players Guild for helping make the theme nights such a success and we look forward to your group being involved again next year.  Without the support of our generous sponsors and helpful volunteers the Party in the Park would not be as successful as it is each year.  We must acknowledge the wonderful community of Chilliwack and all the people who attend our yearly summer party.  Thank you Chilliwack. You Rock!

WOW, what an awesome opening night for this summer's Party in the Park.  The weather couldn't have been better for our opening event, it was perfect, not to hot with a nice gentle breeze.  The Coast Capital Stage entertainment was amazing and we tip our hats to Trevor McDonald for helping us at the Downtown Chilliwack BIA make this such a fabulous and popular event.  The Chilliwack Player's Guild performed a "Spontaneous Dance"  halfway through the evening which had the crowds smiling and dancing along.  Great job guys and gals!  The Safeway and Prime Signs Family Fun Zone was very well attended and all our new additions, like Salish Plaza's Lil' Bakers, O'Connor's Lil' Putters and Mertin's Clownin' Around areas, all seemed very popular. Of course we have just gotten started on this amazing summer event as there are still seven more evenings of entertainment to come.  July 16, 2010 is Hawaiian Night, so we encourage you to put on your grass skirt or your "best" tacky tourist shirt and come on down to Central Community Park for another great party! 

Saying Farewell to June!

It's hard to believe that it is the last day of June already.  All the kids are finished school and are excited about the coming summer and all the fun that comes with their vacation. 

The 2010 Hub International Village Classic is over for this year and despite the weather it was a great show.  Huge crowds came out to stroll the Downtown Chilliwack streets and view over 300 classic cars and hot rods.  They also enjoyed entertainment supplied by The Blendurz, Trevor McDonald and The Chilliwack Player's Guild while munching on food offered by a wide variety of vendors.  People attending the car show were able to take advantage of great deals at the many businesses that opened specially for the show.   Unfortunately the rains arrived shortly after the show opened but people just brought out their umbrellas and continued to wander the area looking at the fabulous display of cars. 

The Downtown Chilliwack BIA is now busy working on the next big event which begins on Friday, July 9, 2010 and continues every Friday night until our grand finale on Aug 27, 2010.  We hope you are as excited as we are for the Coast Capital Savings Party in the Park 2010.  We have a great lineup of entertainment planned, an expanded Night Market and an awesome Family Fun Zone.  There promises to be lots of excitement and many surprises so plan to be there.  Farewell June and bring on July and lots of beautiful summer nights!

Summertime Fun!

Summer is fast approaching and along with it comes two very popular Downtown Chilliwack events.  On Sunday June 27, 2010 the Five Corners and surrounding area will become an oasis of classic cars and hot rods.  The 8th Annual Village Classic Car Show will feature over 200 collector cars, family entertainment and fun activities for kids of all ages.  After the car show people from all over Chilliwack and neighbouring towns will be gearing up for Downtown Chilliwack's Party in the Park.  Come down to our beautifully landscaped Central Community Park (corner of Victoria and Young) every Friday evening in July and August, relax and enjoy a wonderful variety of entertainers or stroll our Night Market of over 50 unique vendors.  Be sure to bring your children or grandchildren as we have an awesome Family Fun Zone offering very popular face painting, craft tables, bouncy castles, clowns, mini golf and many new and exciting additions.  Something new we are featuring this year is 4 theme nights; be a scallywag during our Pirate Night, or a beautiful princess on Fairy Tale Night,  If cowboys and Indians is more your style then be sure to saddle up for our Western Night or dress up in a grass skirt and hula the night away at our Hawaiian Night event.  Tap your feet to the music, dance the night away, enjoy a wide variety of refreshments and you may even be lucky and win a great prize, compliments of our many generous Downtown Chilliwack merchants.  Bring your whole family, lawn chairs or blankets and prepare for a night to remember, tons of fun and lots of adventure!

Congratulations to The Coast Chilliwack Hotel for their recent award.  They were presented the "Sustainable Business Award"  on Friday May 7, 2010 from BC Hydro.  The hotel staff has done amazing work trying to reduce their carbon footprint.  We are very proud to have you in Downtown Chilliwack and thank you for helping encourage others to follow your example.  Job well done!

It was a very busy but productive day at the Downtown Chilliwack BIA office.  Harold received his new cart today to help make his job a little easier.  His old cart will be handed down to Sarena, his new helper, and together they will help keep downtown Chilliwack looking good.  Also helping Harold today were thirty energetic, young people from Highroad Academy, who went out onto the streets with their garbage cans, brooms and orange vests, looking for litter and weeds.  For lunch they enjoyed pizza courtesy of the Rendezvous Restaurant.  Awesome pizza!  Thank you Toni and Dave. 

You may have noticed last week that Harold, the downtown street cleaner, had a partner helping him clean up the streets.  Her name is Sarena and she is very excited about learning her new job.  If you see her walking around the downtown area or outside your business be sure to give her a smile, a wave or just say hello and welcome her to our friendly neighbourhood! 

On Monday April 26, 2010 we will be having a Spring Cleaning Blitz, with 20 young people volunteering to help Harold and Sarena do a very thorough cleaning of the Downtown area.  Just keep an eye out for the brooms and the bright orange vests.  Thanks for keeping Downtown Chilliwack clean and beautiful! 

The morning of Saturday April 17, 2010 was clear and mild, the perfect weather for the Downtown Chilliwack Customer Appreciation Day.  It was great to see so many happy and friendly shoppers supporting our downtown merchants.  We had some great gifts that were donated by many of the local merchants, free cookies and coffee, compliments of Decades Coffee Club.  Hope you were able to make it down to the five corners and enjoy the free refreshments, the beautiful weather and maybe receive one of the awesome gifts.  Look for the next customer appreciation day sometime in September and we'll see you then!

Hey Everyone

Come out on Saturday, April 17, 2010 and shop at the wide variety of stores in the Downtown Chilliwack area.  Spend a minimum of $25.00 and bring your receipt to the Five Corners where you will be given a great gift compliments of participating merchants.  I'll be there from 10 am to 12 noon, so stop by and say hello and grab a cup of coffee!  Happy Shopping. 

This is our blog to post random information and topics to do with the Chilliwack BIA. Want to read some official Chwk BIA news, go here.