Please help grow The Langley Union by sharing this newsletter with friends, family, or on social media and asking them to subscribe.
Word of mouth makes all the difference as we strive to grow and champion local news in our community!
Happy Tuesday, friends!
Air Canada flight attendants achieved a significant labor victory this week, securing groundbreaking ground pay compensation that sets an important precedent for workers across the aviation industry.
Closer to home, Langley's community spirit shone through as local festivals overcame weather challenges, making sure that folks were still able to have a bit of summer fun even in the midst of some much-needed rain.
Meanwhile, organizational changes at Fraser Health and grassroots municipal reform proposals reflect broader questions about how public institutions can better serve working families.
These developments underscore the ongoing struggles and successes of ordinary people fighting for fair treatment, whether in corporate boardrooms or community gathering spaces.
Local Langley News
RibFest Langley Bounces Back After Weather Scare
Mother Nature nearly spoiled the party, but RibFest Langley proved that nothing can keep a good festival down.
Despite earlier concerns about inclement weather, the popular food festival rebounded spectacularly and even set an attendance record on Sunday. The event showcased the community's resilience and love for good barbecue, with vendors and visitors alike celebrating under clearer skies.
Organizers had been monitoring weather forecasts closely, but the improved conditions allowed families to enjoy the full range of rib vendors, live entertainment, and activities that make this annual event a Langley tradition.
The record-breaking Sunday turnout demonstrated that locals were eager to support the festival after the weather uncertainty earlier in the weekend.
Langley City Fire Crews Continue Mop-Up Operations
Fire crews remained busy in Langley City on Monday, working to extinguish stubborn hot spots following a significant blaze.
The aftermath video footage shows the dedication of local firefighters who continued their meticulous work to ensure the fire was completely contained. Crews methodically went through the affected area, using thermal imaging and other tools to identify any remaining sources of heat that could potentially reignite.
The incident required extensive resources and coordination between multiple emergency services. While the main fire was brought under control, the mop-up phase is crucial to prevent any possibility of the fire rekindling.
Local residents were advised to avoid the area while crews completed their thorough safety checks and cleanup operations.
Blackberry Bake-Off Serves Up Sweet Education
Langley's annual Blackberry Bake-Off proved that learning can be as sweet as the desserts on display.
This long-running community event cleverly combines culinary creativity with environmental education, allowing participants to sample delicious blackberry-based dishes while learning about the invasive nature of these prolific plants. Local bakers showcased their skills with pies, jams, cobblers, and innovative treats that made the most of this abundant but problematic fruit.
Beyond the taste-testing, attendees received valuable information about managing blackberry growth on their properties and understanding the ecological impact of invasive species. The event highlights how communities can turn environmental challenges into opportunities for education and engagement.
Organizers noted strong participation from both seasoned bakers and curious newcomers eager to learn about sustainable harvesting and creative cooking techniques.
Arts Alive Festival Weathers the Storm
Just when it seemed like torrential rain would wash out Arts Alive, the weather gods showed mercy on Langley's premier arts festival.
Event organizers and artists held their breath as dark clouds gathered and heavy rain threatened to dampen the weekend celebration of local creativity. However, the precipitation stopped just in time, allowing the festival to proceed with its full slate of activities, performances, and exhibitions.
The near-miss with severe weather created a sense of relief and celebration among attendees, who seemed even more appreciative of the opportunity to support local artists and enjoy outdoor performances. Vendors reported strong sales despite the earlier weather concerns.
The festival showcased a diverse range of artistic talents, from traditional crafts to contemporary installations, proving once again that Langley's creative community is both resilient and vibrant.
Regional Vancouver / Fraser Valley News
Fraser Health Gets New Leadership Amid Organizational Shake-Up
Fraser Health has appointed Dermot Kelly as its new CEO, marking another chapter in the health authority's recent leadership turbulence.
Kelly steps into the role following the departure of Victoria Lee in February, who left with a controversial severance package exceeding $600,000. He replaces interim CEO Lynn Stevenson, who had been managing the organization during this transitional period.
The appointment comes at a critical time for Fraser Health, which serves one of Canada's fastest-growing populations across the Fraser Valley and parts of Metro Vancouver. Kelly brings extensive healthcare management experience to address ongoing challenges including capacity pressures, staffing shortages, and infrastructure needs.
The health authority has faced scrutiny over executive compensation and organizational stability, making Kelly's leadership appointment crucial for restoring confidence among staff and the communities served.
Surrey-White Rock Amalgamation Proposal Gains Online Momentum
A grassroots online petition is calling for the amalgamation of Surrey and White Rock, arguing that joining the two cities would deliver better services and more efficient use of taxpayer dollars.
Proponents of the merger suggest that combining resources could eliminate administrative duplication, improve public services, and create economies of scale that benefit residents of both communities. The petition highlights potential savings in areas like emergency services, infrastructure development, and municipal governance.
The proposal comes as both cities face growth pressures and infrastructure challenges that strain their individual budgets. Supporters argue that amalgamation could provide the financial strength needed to address these issues more effectively.
However, any municipal merger would require provincial approval and extensive consultation with residents, making this an early-stage discussion rather than an imminent policy change.
National Canadian News
Air Canada Workers Win Historic Ground Pay After Strike Victory
Flight attendants at Air Canada secured a groundbreaking victory with a tentative agreement that includes ground pay for the first time, ending their weekend strike.
Until now, flight attendants were not paid for any time or work they performed until the flight cabin doors were officially shut.
The Canadian Union of Public Employees, representing over 10,000 flight attendants, successfully fought for compensation during unpaid ground time including passenger loading, unloading, and flight delays.
The deal sets an important industry precedent that could benefit flight attendants across the sector.
Air Canada expects gradual service restoration over the coming week after cancelling over 2,500 flights during the dispute.
Sunshine Coast First Nation Discovers 41 More Unmarked Graves
The shíshálh Nation has announced the discovery of 41 additional suspected unmarked graves at the former Sechelt Residential School, adding to the growing evidence of Canada's dark residential school legacy.
Using ground-penetrating radar technology, archeologists working with the First Nation have been systematically searching the school grounds since 2023. The newly identified graves represent another tragic chapter in the ongoing process of uncovering the full scope of what happened at these institutions designed to assimilate Indigenous children.
Each discovery brings both closure and renewed pain for survivors and their families, while highlighting the important work being done by Indigenous communities to honor those who never returned home. The findings contribute to a national reckoning with the residential school system's devastating impact on Indigenous peoples.
The shíshálh Nation continues to work with archeological experts and community elders to respectfully document and preserve these sacred sites, ensuring that the children buried there are finally acknowledged and remembered.
Sports News
🏀 WNBA Makes Historic Vancouver Debut, Sets Stage for Canadian Expansion
Women's professional basketball officially arrived in Canada as the Seattle Storm and Atlanta Dream squared off in Vancouver for the first-ever WNBA regular-season game on Canadian soil.
The historic Friday night matchup saw the Storm edge out the Dream 80-78 in a thrilling contest that had fans on their feet at Rogers Place. The game served as more than just entertainment—it was a preview of what Canadian basketball fans can expect when the Toronto Tempo officially joins the league in May 2026.
The sold-out crowd demonstrated the appetite for women's professional basketball in Canada, with fans displaying knowledge and enthusiasm that impressed players and league officials alike. The atmosphere rivaled any WNBA venue south of the border, proving that Canadian markets are ready to embrace the league.
This groundbreaking event raises expectations for the WNBA's Canadian expansion, showing that the league has found a receptive audience eager to support women's professional sports at the highest level.
⚽ Thomas Müller's Vancouver Debut Nearly Perfect in Whitecaps Draw
German soccer legend Thomas Müller came tantalizingly close to a fairy-tale debut with the Vancouver Whitecaps, finding the net just three minutes after entering the match against Houston Dynamo.
The crowd at BC Place erupted when the Bayern Munich icon scored what appeared to be a perfect introduction to Major League Soccer, but the celebration was cut short when the goal was ruled offside. Despite the disappointment, Müller's brief appearance showed flashes of the world-class quality that made him a global superstar.
The match ended in a 1-1 draw, but the real story was Müller's presence and the excitement he brings to MLS. His movement, vision, and technical ability were evident even in limited minutes, suggesting that once he fully adapts to the league's style, he'll be a significant asset for the Whitecaps.
Vancouver fans got a taste of what they can expect from one of soccer's most accomplished players, setting high expectations for future matches as Müller settles into North American soccer.
🏒 White Rock's Grace Elliot Eyes Professional Women's Hockey Future
Grace Elliott's dominant season with the UBC Thunderbirds has positioned the White Rock native as a potential star in the Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL).
The power forward was recognized as the best player in Canadian women's university hockey this year, combining physical presence with exceptional skill that caught the attention of professional scouts. Her ability to control games at both ends of the ice makes her an ideal candidate for the PWHL's continued expansion and development.
Elliott's journey from local hockey programs to university stardom represents the growing opportunities available to women in hockey, particularly with the PWHL providing a legitimate professional pathway. Her success story inspires young female players across the Fraser Valley who can now envision careers in professional hockey.
As the PWHL continues to establish itself as the premier destination for women's professional hockey, players like Elliott represent the next generation of talent that will elevate the sport's profile and competitive level.
Events Happening Today
Johnny Elvis Concert
- Time: 6:00 to 9:00pm
- Location: Douglas Park Spirit Square, 20550 Douglas Crescent, Langley BC
- Description: Based in Langley, BC, Johnny Elvis is a 26-year-old Elvis tribute artist who’s been captivating audiences since he was just 18. But Johnny’s connection to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll began much earlier—at the age of 5, when he first saw Elvis on TV. It was his mother, a lifelong fan, who encouraged him to explore the music and magic of Elvis Presley.
Whether you’re a lifelong Elvis fan or new to the legend, Johnny Elvis delivers a show full of energy, nostalgia, and pure entertainment. He’s an unforgettable performer that keeps the spirit of Elvis alive and rockin’!
What did you think of this story?
Take our quick 2-minute survey to let us know how we're doing and what topics you'd like to see The Langley Union cover next.