Dust off your finest attire and get ready to step into a world of mystery, elegance, and generosity at the highly anticipated Fraser Valley Grand Gala Masquerade Ball on November 15th. Hosted at the beautiful Clarion Hotel & Conference Center in Abbotsford, this night promises to be filled with glamour and purpose, as we come together to support a vital cause: raising funds for the Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation!

A Night of Glamour for Good
The evening will begin at 5:30pm with a sparkling champagne reception, giving guests the chance to mingle behind their ornate masks before entering the grand ballroom. Prepare to be dazzled by a night of delicious cuisine, live entertainment, and surprises that will keep you on your toes. Attendees can look forward to silent and live auctions featuring exclusive items and experiences—perfect for the generous hearts looking to make an impact.
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But the true magic of the night lies in the purpose behind it. All proceeds from the Masquerade Ball will go directly toward purchasing essential medical equipment for hospitals across the Eastern Fraser Valley region, ensuring our local healthcare teams have the tools they need to continue delivering high-quality care.

Why Your Support Matters
The Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation has been committed to improving healthcare in the region for over 20 years. From upgrading vital equipment to supporting specialized programs, funds raised contribute to the well-being of patients across our hospitals. Whether you’re attending as a couple or gathering a table of friends, your presence at the Masquerade Ball will help fund life-saving equipment that touches the lives of thousands.

The Details

• When: Friday, November 15th, 2024, 
• Doors Open: 5:30pm
• Where: Clarion Hotel & Conference Center, 36035 N. Parallel Road, Abbotsford
• Dress Code: Black-tie and, of course, a mask!
• Tickets: Available now at fvhcf.ca/gala – Reserve your seat today!

​Join us for a night where mystery meets meaning, and fun meets philanthropy. Together, we can lift the Eastern Fraser Valley hospitals to new heights. Don’t miss the chance to be part of something truly extraordinary.

The Harrison Festival Society will be temporarily moving from their traditional venue of the Harrison Memorial Hall to the Agassiz Agricultural Hall for a vocal workshop and concert with Cara Luft on Saturday September 21st.        
 
To mark her long career and her 50th birthday, Cara Luft (The Small Glories, The Wailin' Jennys) has launched “50 for 50” — fifty curated shows that are seeing her travel across Canada, the US and Europe.  She is joined by a cast of friends and special guest artists who share her sense of adventure and joyful music-making, as well as her passion to explore, collaborate and celebrate.  No two shows are the same.  For the Agassiz show, Cara will be joined by close friends The Doggone Brothers, a Kootenay-based duo specializing in old time and bluegrass music and harmonies.  And Cara?  As one promoter put it, "I don’t know which is more beguiling... her 1000 watt personality, her wizardry on guitar and banjo, the power of her voice or her songwriting talent?  In any event, the audience is in for a real treat!”  Join Caraand The Doggone Brothers for a one-of-a-kind unique performance full of musical surprises.

Following on Cara’s popular vocal workshop at the Harrison Festival this July, she will be offering a one-hour vocal harmony workshop at the same venue in Agassiz as her concert, at 2pm on the same day. Tickets for the workshop are 20 dollars and folks who attend both workshop and concert will receive a discount on their evening concert ticket. 

The show begins at 7:30pm with doors opening at 6:30pm. Tickets for Cara Luft 50 for 50 can be purchased online at www.harrisonfestival.com, by phone at 604.796.3664 or in person at the Ranger Station Art Gallery in Harrison Hot Springs.

​About the Harrison Festival Society
Known worldwide for its professional artistry and small town hospitality, the Harrison Festival Society has long been a beacon for growing acceptance of diversity and purpose fueled programming.  Each July for more than 35 years the Society has produced the internationally acclaimed Harrison Festival of the Arts, a nine day, cross disciplinary, multicultural art event set amidst the small town atmosphere and breathtaking scenery of Harrison Hot Springs, BC. A non-profit, grass-roots organization, the Society also presents an annual Season of the Performing Arts from September to May and works closely with a number of Fraser Valley partners in continuing to bring high quality, inclusive and accessible performing arts into the area.

To mark His Majesty King Charles Ill's Coronation on May 6th, 2023, this commemorative medal was created to recognize outstanding individuals of all ages, from all walks of life who have made a difference in their community. Today, we look forward to celebrating those who have provided lasting contributions to their community, industry and country.
 
Congratulations to today’s awards recipients:
 
DIANA MCCALL has been a key figure in early childhood education since 2006, serving as the Early Years and StrongStart Coordinator and a board member of Mission Literacy in Motion. She played a pivotal role in establishing StrongStart, a free, play-based learning program, and has contributed to the Ready Set Learn initiative, supporting Kindergarten transitions. Her dedication has profoundly impacted countless children, families, and caregivers in the community.
 
JIM HINDS, a retired industrial mechanic and electrical safety trainer, served as a Mission Councillor from 2014 to 2018 and chaired the Committee for Safety & Health. Awarded the Freedom of the City in 2022, he remains active in community service as secretary of the Mission Community Archives, treasurer of the Mission Community Skills Centre, and through his work at St. Joseph's Food Bank, Hope Central, and Mission Raceway.
 
JIM PEARCE, a dedicated principal of Mission Senior Secondary since 1990, has positively influenced his students and fostered a vibrant educational community. He is also known for his 2015 rooftop bike ride to raise funds for girls' education and health through the "Because I Am A Girl" organization.
 
JUDITH RAY, a former nurse who cared for Terry Fox, has been a dedicated advocate for affordable housing for people with mental health needs and elders. As a past Executive Director of Pleasantview Care Home and a key figure in the Mission Healthy Community Council, she contributed to Mission's first social development plan and various initiatives. She is currently the Treasurer for the Mission Association for Seniors Housing and co-chair of M.A.T.H., supporting community-based health care services.
 
JACOB BEATON, an expert in business negotiation, real estate, and Indigenous engagement, leads Tea Creek, an award-winning, culturally safe, Indigenous-led initiative. He is also the Executive Director of the Indigenous Food Sovereignty and has consulted with over 60 First Nations since 2001 on communications, digital strategy, and economic development. Jacob’s heritage includes Haida Gwaii, Heiltsuk, Gitzaala, and British Isles, and he is known by the name Dzapt Gygyaawn Sgyiik from the Gispaxloats tribe.
 
STAN VANDER WAAL is the CEO of Rainbow Greenhouses, a horticultural company based in Chilliwack, BC, which he and his wife Wilma founded 38 years ago. The family-run business has grown to four locations with over 800 employees and 5 million square feet of advanced greenhouse facilities. Stan, known for his collaborative leadership, is involved in various agricultural boards and remains active in his community with his family.

Thank you, Mission, for attending Mission Sports Council's Annual KidSport Golf Tournament. All funds raised from today's event, along with the support of local businesses and individuals through sponsorships, will help local children participate in sports programs throughout Mission. If you're interested in donating or applying for funds for your child, visit
https://kidsportcanada.ca/brit.../mission/apply-for-a-grant/

Since 1999, Mission Literacy in Motion has proudly provided the Reading Buddies program to the Mission community. As we celebrate 25 years of fostering literacy and community connection, we are deeply grateful for the ongoing support and partnerships that have contributed to the program's enduring success.
 
Throughout these years, Mission Literacy in Motion has consistently ensured the program's effectiveness by providing a dedicated facilitator to manage and run the sessions. We take pride in fully funding the facilitator and covering the program's operational costs.
 
While the Mission Public Library graciously provides meeting space and additional support, the financial backing that sustains the program comes from multiple sources, including Decoda Literacy Solutions, Postmedia's Raise-a-Reader initiative, and the District of Mission.
 
The Buddies meet for one hour, once a week, on the same day and time. Each session is designed to be flexible and engaging, incorporating puzzles, games, coloring, and, of course, reading. The primary goal is to spark a genuine interest in reading by creating a positive and enjoyable experience for the students through their connection with their Big Buddy.
 
We recognize that the students in the Reading Buddies program may not have taken to reading for various reasons—English might not be spoken at home, they may have difficulty sitting still or engaging in the same activity for an extended period, or they might not yet have discovered a genre that captures their interest. By making the sessions enjoyable and diverse, we aim to help each child form a positive relationship with reading and their Big Buddy.

Ultimately, we want the experience to be rewarding and fun for both the student and the volunteer, ensuring that each Buddy looks forward to their time together.

​What is Reading Buddies?
The Reading Buddies program was designed to spark the joy and fascination of reading in young learners, celebrating their efforts. This program is tailored for children in grades 1-4, offering a fun and engaging environment to explore the world of books.

How does it work?
A volunteer (Big Buddy) meets weekly for one hour with a student (Little Buddy) at the Mission Public Library. The session takes place on the same day and time every week. The program is one-on-one between the Big Buddy and the Little Buddy.

Why volunteer for this program?
As a Big Buddy, you can have a positive influence on a child. One of the most essential life skills is the ability to read. With the ability to read comes freedom, and as a volunteer, you can play a part in this. High school students can also earn volunteer hours toward graduation. Additionally, volunteering can help you qualify for scholarships, as many scholarships require community involvement. Whether you're retired or simply have some free time to give, being a Big Buddy makes a meaningful difference in a child’s life.

Ready to join us?
Applications to volunteer or enroll your child are conveniently available at the Mission Public Library front desk. We welcome all volunteers over 18, and a simple Criminal Record Check is required. It's easy to start this rewarding journey.
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For more information, please contact the Reading Buddies facilitator at readingbuddyinmission@gmail.com