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Happy Hump Day, Langley friends!
This morning we're watching a handful of fun local stories, from Langley City council decisions that shape our neighborhoods to a free queer games night at Farm Country Brewing.
Whether it's housing developments that could address our affordability crisis, queer folks creating safe spaces in suburban settings, or international solidarity that challenges imperial power, we're checking in on the social movements and government decisions that impact ordinary people's daily lives.
Local Langley News
Brigade Days Returns to Celebrate Langley's Rich Heritage
Langley's annual Brigade Days celebration is set to transport visitors back in time this B.C. Day long weekend with a delightful mix of heritage demonstrations and storytelling.
The event combines historical reenactments, traditional crafts, and interactive experiences that showcase the region's fascinating past.
Families can enjoy everything from period costume displays to hands-on activities that bring history to life in an engaging and educational way.
Updates from Langley City Council
July 21 marked the final Langley City Council meeting before their August break, and it was packed with significant decisions on housing and infrastructure development.
Council gave final approval for rezoning at 20256-20272 54A Avenue and issued development permits for an impressive 6-storey, 114-unit apartment building.
The Fraser Highway One-Way Project received positive updates, new sidewalks and initial asphalt work scheduled for completion before the August 16 Arts Alive Festival. The project also remains on schedule and on budget.
Additionally, the Langley School District's 5-year plan for school site acquisition was approved, addressing the anticipated need for 900 new student spaces in Langley City over the next decade.
Queer Board Game Night Tonight at Farm Country Brewing
The Vancouver Gaymers are expanding their reach into Langley's suburban landscape, bringing board games and community building to Farm Country Brewing this Wednesday evening.
This grassroots organizing effort demonstrates how LGBTQ+ solidarity can flourish outside traditional urban centers, creating safe spaces for connection in communities that have historically lacked visible queer gathering places.
The 19+ event runs from 5:00 to 8:00 PM and encourages participants to bring games or join existing groups, fostering the kind of organic community building that builds and strengthens social networks in our era of the loneliness epidemic.
Regional Vancouver / Fraser Valley News
Massive Russian Earthquake Triggers Tsunami Advisory for B.C. Coast
An enormous 8.8-magnitude earthquake struck off Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula, prompting officials to upgrade B.C.'s coastal regions from a tsunami watch to an advisory.
The massive quake, which occurred approximately 129 kilometres southeast of Kamchatka around 4:25 p.m. on July 29, has generated tsunami waves across the Pacific.
British Columbians in affected coastal areas are being urged to stay away from beaches and low-lying areas as a precautionary measure while officials monitor the situation.
Maritime Festival Sets Sail for Steveston Weekend Celebration
Steveston's annual Maritime Festival is returning with a perfect blend of boats, bands, and plenty of community spirit for what promises to be anything but your average weekend.
The waterfront celebration will showcase the rich maritime heritage of the historic fishing village, featuring everything from classic vessels to live entertainment.
Visitors can expect an authentic taste of coastal culture, complete with maritime demonstrations, nautical displays, and the kind of seaside atmosphere that makes Steveston a beloved destination for both locals and tourists seeking a genuine connection to B.C.'s fishing and boating traditions.
Heat Warning Issued for B.C. Interior as Temperatures Soar
Environment Canada has issued heat warnings for B.C.'s Interior regions as temperatures are expected to climb into the upper 30s Celsius.
The combination of high temperatures and low humidity is creating particularly concerning conditions that significantly increase wildfire risk across the region.
Weather officials are also warning about crossover conditions that could lead to intense lightning storms, further complicating the fire risk situation during what's already been a challenging wildfire season.
National Canadian News
Opinion: Canada Must Recognize Palestine to Break From Trump's Imperial Foreign Policy
Canada faces a defining moment to assert genuine sovereignty by recognizing Palestinian statehood, breaking from Trump's militaristic agenda that threatens both our independence and international law.
With the U.S. president openly discussing annexing Canada while backing Israeli plans to illegally annex Gaza, our government has a clear opportunity to demonstrate that working people's values of human rights and self-determination will not be subordinated to imperial interests.
Steven Zhou's call for recognition aligns with over 140 UN member countries and represents the kind of international solidarity that challenges both American hegemony and the capitalist exploitation driving Middle Eastern conflicts.
By supporting Palestinian statehood, Canada can chart an independent path that prioritizes human dignity over corporate and military interests, proving that smaller nations need not bow to the dictates of imperial powers.
Federal Government Allegedly Allowed Hundreds of Arms Shipments to Israel Despite Public Claims
A new investigative report alleges that Canada has been permitting hundreds of arms shipments to Israel, contradicting the government's public statements about halting such exports.
The allegations come despite official government claims that arms shipments to Israel were suspended in January 2024, raising serious questions about transparency and accountability in Canada's foreign policy decisions.
The report suggests a significant gap between public rhetoric and actual policy implementation, potentially undermining Canada's stated commitment to human rights and international law in conflict zones.
Sports News
🏉 Langley Vipers Claim Silver in Hard-Fought Rugby Championship
The Langley-based Vipers put on an impressive display at the Langley Rugby Club field, battling their way to a well-deserved silver medal finish.
The championship match showcased the team's skill and determination throughout what proved to be an intensely competitive tournament. Despite falling just short of gold, the Vipers demonstrated the high caliber of rugby talent that calls Langley home.
🏒 Vancouver Giants Add Experienced Equipment Manager to Roster
The Vancouver Giants have announced that Paul Ng will join the organization as Equipment Manager for the upcoming 2025-26 WHL season, bringing a wealth of junior hockey experience to the role.
Originally from Saskatoon, Ng has worked with multiple Junior A and U-18 clubs throughout his career, including successful stints with the Humboldt Broncos, Merritt Centennials, and Burnaby Express.
His impressive resume includes being part of the 2006 RBC Cup Champion Burnaby Express team and winning four provincial championships with the Vancouver North West Giants between 2006-10.
Assistant General Manager Pete Toigo praised Ng's passion for the game and eagerness to return to junior hockey as key factors that made him an ideal fit for the Giants organization.
Events Happening Today
Board Games in the Burbs @ Farm Country Brewing [19+]
- Time: 5:00pm
- Location: Farm Country Brewing, Farm Country Brewing, 20555 56 Ave, Langley, BC V3A 3Y9, Canada
- Description: In conjunction with our lovely partners at Langley Pride Society.
Bring along your favourite board games, strategy games, trading card games, and party games, or play games that other people have brought along! There is plenty of choice. The venue has some board games available too.
Come along and make friends. We'll have labels for you to write your name and pronouns on, and if you need help coming along, message any of our Admins or Volunteers on our Discord server! https://discord.com/invite/NdKfJQ7
Please support the event by buying your dinner and drinks at the venue. If you choose not to purchase, please approach the staff and make a tip (we recommend $5)
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