Today is the official start of small business month in British Columbia, so I’m going to take this time to offer kudos to the City of Langley for their innovative efforts to foster and support small business in our community.
Ted Schaffer and his team were lauded last week, one of five communities recognized during the Union of B.C. Municipalities convention. They’re joined in this triumph by Abbotsford, Sidney, Surrey, and Tsawwassen First Nation.
In addition to earning bragging rights, each community received $10,000 to fund a local, small-business friendly project in their community. I’m waiting to hear details on what Langley has in the works.
All I know so far is what I hear from Gerald Minchuk, the City of Langley's director of development services and economic development.
"Langley City council will be deciding upon where the small business friendly award funds will be directed as part of their 2016 financial plan budget deliberations," he said.
Here's their award-winning package.
Childcare centre opens doors for a party
For those who didn’t catch this mention in my column last week, I just wanted to remind folks of a fun kid-oriented event happening this Saturday in Langley.
A Willowbrook daycare and preschool is hosting a public farmers market and pumpkin patch that is expected to benefit greatly the Make-A-Wish B.C.
On Saturday, Oct. 3, Jellybean Park childcare facility is hosting the public event in its large parking lot and playground, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The day will feature fun, family-friendly activities including pony rides, facepainting, pumpkin carving, as well as numerous local vendor and artisan exhibits. All proceeds from the pumpkin patch and apple cider stand will be going to the children’s charity.
For more information, people can visit the 37-year-old Montessori child care centre, www.jellybeanpark.com or call 604-539-9898.
Purchasing bears helps sick kids
Speaking of aid for kids, I wanted to tell you about another Willowbrook area business trying to help kids.
This time, it’s the Brick, and for the second year running they’re partnering with the Children’s Miracle Network to help sick kids and their families across the country.
Until the end of February, people can buy a stuffed (Gund made) Brickley Bear in a superhero costume at the store for $20, and see net proceeds from each stuffy go to the cause.
Likewise, during the same period of time, The Brick is going to match ever dollar donated through the sale of Brickley Bear cutouts - to a maximum of $100,000.
This is the second year for this campaign. Last year’s raised almost $700,000 for the children’s charity, which locally sees the money go to BC Children’s Hospital.
October jam packed with chamber
There’s lots coming up this month for the Greater Langley Chamber of Commerce.
While the event is free, registration is required by calling the chamber at 604-371-3770 or info@langleychamber.com.
Also upcoming is the monthly mingle session on Tuesday, Oct. 6, the Langley City-Cloverdale federal all-candidates meeting on Wednesday, Oct. 7, and Langley-Aldergrove federal all-candidates meeting on Thursday, Oct. 8.
Later in the month, the chamber holds its monthly dinner meeting at Tuesday, Oct. 20, followed by the monthly lunch and learn at Wednesday, Oct. 21.
Most significant, the chamber is hosting its 19th annual celebration of excellence on Thursday, Oct. 29.