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Happy Halloween, Langley!
Expect rain and reduced visibility tonight as trick-or-treaters hit the streets, so drivers should slow down and stay alert.
In other news, Remembrance Day ceremonies return on November 11, the Fraser Valley Writers Festival brings comedian Charlie Demers to Abbotsford, and the BC Greens unveiled a bold tax plan targeting billionaires while the NDP faces criticism for a pipeline tax break that could cost municipalities millions.
Plus, Elections BC recommends changes to fixed election periods, Prime Minister Carney met with Chinese President Xi at the APEC summit, and Toronto prepares for a possible Blue Jays World Series celebration tonight.
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Local Langley News
Stay Safe This Halloween, Langley: Rain and Crowds Expected Tonight
Halloween is here, and Langley residents should prepare for a wet and hectic evening of trick-or-treating.
Rain is in the forecast for tonight, which means safety becomes even more critical during what's already one of the busiest nights of the year.
Local authorities are reminding residents to take extra precautions, including carrying flashlights, wearing reflective clothing, and ensuring children are supervised at all times.
Drivers are being urged to slow down and watch for excited trick-or-treaters who may dart into the street. With reduced visibility due to rain and darkness, everyone needs to be extra vigilant to ensure Halloween remains fun and injury-free.
Remembrance Day Ceremonies Return to Langley This November 11
Langley will pause at 11 a.m. on November 11 to honour the brave men and women who have served and continue to serve our country.
The annual Remembrance Day ceremonies provide an important opportunity for the community to gather and reflect on the sacrifices made by Canadian military personnel.
These ceremonies remember the contributions to our freedom and way of life that we often take for granted. Local residents are encouraged to attend one of several ceremonies taking place throughout Langley to pay their respects and ensure that the memory of our veterans lives on.
Fraser Valley Writers Festival features comedian Charlie Demers and celebrated Canadian authors
The Fraser Valley Writers Festival is bringing some serious literary firepower to Abbotsford with the appearance of comedian and author Charlie Demers.
Demers, best known as a regular panelist on CBC's popular radio show "The Debaters," will deliver a keynote address on opening night of the festival.
The multi-talented performer is not just a comedian but also an accomplished writer with several books to his name. His appearance is expected to draw crowds from across the Fraser Valley, including many Langley residents who appreciate his sharp wit and insightful commentary.
The festival offers a rare opportunity to hear from one of Canada's most entertaining literary voices in an intimate setting.
BC Green Party proposes billionaire tax and progressive reforms as NDP faces pressure from the left
BC Green leader Emily Lowan unveiled an ambitious seven-point tax reform package targeting the ultra-wealthy and large corporations.
Proposed new personal income tax brackets for the province's ultra-wealthy:
| New tax brackets | Current tax rate | Proposed tax rate |
|---|---|---|
| $350,000 | 20.50% | 24% |
| $500,000 | 20.50% | 27% |
| $1 million | 20.50% | 30% |
Current top two brackets increased by one point:
| Highest current tax brackets | Current tax rate | Proposed tax rate |
|---|---|---|
| $259,829 | 20.50% | 21.50% |
| $186,306.01 to $259,829 | 16.80% | 17.80% |
The plan includes new income tax brackets for earners over $350,000, a one-time 5% wealth tax on centimillionaires and billionaires, and an inheritance tax on transfers over $5 million.
The Greens also propose replacing BC's property tax system with a land value tax to discourage speculation and sprawl while protecting low-income homeowners.
Additional measures include restoring pre-2006 corporate tax rates, imposing an 18% excess profits tax on corporations earning over $1 billion, and reviewing natural resource royalties that have plummeted from 2.5% of GDP to just 0.6% today.
The package directly challenges the NDP's eight-year record, accusing the governing party of choosing "austerity and oligarchs" over working families while BC faces the highest income inequality in Canada.
Millions in Pipeline Tax Breaks Could Be Passed On to B.C. Residents
Pipeline giants including Enbridge, Trans Mountain, and FortisBC have successfully lobbied BC NDP government to slash their property tax bills by millions of dollars after nearly a decade of complaints about rates based on 1980s construction costs.
The assessment changes will devastate rural communities like Clearwater, which faces losing 8 to 11 percent of its tax base, forcing municipalities to either cut services or shift the burden onto homeowners through higher property taxes.
BC Conservatives have introduced emergency legislation to block what they call a "backroom deal" with billion-dollar corporations, criticizing the NDP government for negotiating tax breaks behind closed doors while communities struggle with rising costs and service pressures.
Elections BC Recommends Changes to Fixed Election Periods
Elections BC has released its third report on the recent provincial election, calling for changes to B.C.'s fixed election period rules.
The report recommends extending the time frame within which fixed elections must be held, potentially providing more flexibility for the province's electoral calendar.
Additionally, the report calls for monetary penalties for violations of the 100-metre campaigning rule, which prohibits electioneering too close to polling stations.
These recommendations come after observations from the most recent provincial election revealed areas where the current system could be improved. Elections BC officials say the changes would strengthen democratic processes and ensure fairer elections moving forward.
Prime Minister Carney Meets Chinese President Xi at APEC Summit
Prime Minister Mark Carney walked away from a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday with an invitation to China, but no immediate breakthrough on trade issues.
The meeting took place on the sidelines of the APEC summit in Gyeongju, South Korea, marking what Carney described as a potential turning point in Canada-China relations.
The two leaders discussed a range of bilateral issues, including trade tensions that have strained relations between the two countries in recent years. While Carney received an invitation for an official visit to China, concrete progress on resolving disputes over tariffs and market access remains elusive.
The Prime Minister expressed cautious optimism that the dialogue represents a step toward improved relations, though significant challenges remain.
Toronto Prepares for Possible Blue Jays World Series Celebration Tonight
The City of Toronto and Blue Jays fans are gearing up for what could be a historic night as the team looks to clinch the World Series.
Toronto holds a 3-2 series lead over the Los Angeles Dodgers, with Game 6 scheduled for tonight at Rogers Centre. Kevin Gausman will take the mound against Japanese star Yoshinobu Yamamoto in what promises to be an electric atmosphere.
City officials are preparing for massive crowds to fill downtown streets if the Blue Jays secure their first World Series championship since 1993.
Police have announced increased security measures, while bars and restaurants are extending hours to accommodate what could be one of the biggest celebrations in Toronto's history.
Sherwood's Hat Trick Powers Canucks Past Blues 4-3 in Shootout
Kiefer Sherwood scored three goals, and Jake DeBrusk netted the shootout winner as the Vancouver Canucks defeated the St. Louis Blues 4-3.
Sherwood's hat trick was the offensive highlight in a back-and-forth affair that saw both teams trading chances throughout regulation and overtime. Goaltender Kevin Lankinen was outstanding for Vancouver, making 36 saves to keep his team in the game during several stretches when the Blues controlled play.
After a scoreless overtime period, the game went to a shootout where DeBrusk showcased his skill with a decisive goal. The victory keeps the Canucks in strong playoff position as they continue their push through the competitive Western Conference standings.
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