Happy Friday, Langley!
Today starts cloudy with temperatures rising to a high of 17°C, clearing late morning with light winds. No rain is expected but keep a light jacket handy for the evening when it cools to 10°C!
Here's your daily roundup of news from Langley to the national stage, followed by all of the exciting events happening in our community over the weekend!
Local Langley News
Gas leak closes 208 Street in Langley
A significant gas leak prompted the closure of 208 Street in Langley yesterday, causing traffic disruptions throughout the area. Fortis BC crews were dispatched immediately to the scene to address the potentially dangerous situation.
The incident highlights the importance of prompt response to infrastructure emergencies in our growing community.
Document Shredding and Burger Fundraiser This Weekend
This Saturday, Langley residents can tackle spring cleaning while supporting a good cause at a local fundraiser event.
The multi-purpose community event will feature document shredding services alongside a barbecue serving up burgers and hotdogs.
Attendees can also browse the on-site tuk shop, making this a perfect weekend opportunity to declutter securely while enjoying some outdoor community time.
Highway 1 Access Changes Coming at 264 Street
Starting as early as today, May 23rd, significant traffic pattern changes will be implemented near the 264 Street interchange in Aldergrove.
Westbound drivers exiting Highway 1 at 264 Street will be redirected to a new off-ramp with a signalized intersection.
Even more impactful, beginning June 13th, eastbound drivers will need to exit half a kilometer earlier than usual and navigate via 56 Avenue to reach 264 Street. These changes are part of the ongoing Highway 1 widening project through the Fraser Valley.
Regional Vancouver / Fraser Valley News
How BC Wildfire Service Combats Misinformation With Compassion
The BC Wildfire Service has implemented an innovative approach to fighting the spread of misinformation on social media during wildfire season. As engagement with wildfire-related posts continues to increase, the agency is focusing on compassionate communication rather than simply correcting false information.
This strategy acknowledges the fear and anxiety that drives much of the misinformation, and aims to build trust while still providing accurate updates. The approach represents a significant evolution in how government agencies handle crisis communications in the digital age.
Union of BC Municipalities and First Nations Call for Bill 15 to be Withdrawn
In a rare show of unified opposition, both the Union of BC Municipalities and First Nations leaders have called for the controversial Bill 15 to be withdrawn.
The Infrastructure Projects Act, intended to speed up project approvals, has sparked widespread concern about its potential impacts on local governance and Indigenous rights.
First Nations leaders specifically warn that the legislation could lead to protests and litigation if implemented as currently written. This growing pushback highlights the delicate balance between development goals and respecting established consultation processes.
National Canadian News
Postal Workers Cry Foul as Canada Post Forces Last-Minute Contract Decision
Local Canada Post workers represented by CUPW 796 say they're being "bullied" into another strike by corporate tactics, as Canada Post delivered a complex contract offer just 24 hours before the current agreement expires at midnight Friday.
The proposal includes 13% wage increases over four years (below the union's 19% demand), more part-time positions, and controversial "dynamic routing" that could change mail delivery routes daily without established worker protections.
Union president Jeff Padgham says Canada Post's refusal to grant a two-week truce to properly review the hundreds of pages shows the corporation wants conflict, leaving exhausted workers who already endured a five-week strike last year feeling backed into a corner with no good options.
The Promises and Perils of Geoengineering
As climate change intensifies, Canada is examining controversial geoengineering technologies designed to manipulate the climate system on a massive scale. These methods, while potentially offering a way to lower global temperatures, come with significant risks of unintended consequences that could be disastrous.
Environmental scientists warn that many proposed solutions would require deployment at unprecedented scales to meaningfully affect global temperatures. The debate raises important questions about technological solutions versus emissions reductions as Canada shapes its climate strategy.
Ontario Community Reclaims Public Water from Private Corporations
Several Ontario municipalities have successfully fought to reclaim their groundwater resources from exploitation by private corporations. The victory comes after years of advocacy by local residents concerned about corporate control of essential public resources.
The communities, located within the Grand River Conservation Authority area including Wellington County, established innovative governance models that prioritize public access and environmental sustainability. This grassroots movement represents a significant shift in how water rights are conceived in Canadian communities.
Sports News
🏒 Vancouver Canucks Sign Latvian Forward to Two-Year Deal
The Vancouver Canucks have strengthened their roster by signing Latvian forward Anri Ravinskis to a two-year contract.
Ravinskis impressed scouts with his performance in Finland last season, where he tallied an impressive 38 points in 50 games while splitting time between two teams.
This signing represents the Canucks' continuing strategy to build depth through international talent acquisition. The young forward is expected to bring both scoring ability and versatility to the Vancouver lineup.
🏀 Bandits Demolish Defending Champs 109-72 in Revenge Victory at Langley Events Centre
The Vancouver Bandits delivered a dominant 109-72 victory over the defending champion Niagara River Lions at the Langley Events Centre, flipping the script from last year's championship final loss.
Led by Kyle Mangas' 28-point, 10-rebound double-double and strong performances from Curtis Hollis (22 points) and Tyrese Samuel (20 points, 13 rebounds), the Bandits controlled the game from the second quarter onward, outrebounding Niagara 52-37 and building leads as large as 39 points.
The victory before 3,987 home fans continued Vancouver's perfect 2-0 start to the season and maintained their impressive home court advantage at the Langley Events Centre, where they've now won eight straight dating back to last season.
🏒 Abbotsford Canucks Take Game 3 in Overtime Thriller
The Abbotsford Canucks staged an impressive comeback to defeat the Colorado Eagles 3-2 in overtime, taking Game 3 of their playoff series. The victory against the league's best home team puts Abbotsford just one win away from advancing to the Western Conference Finals.
The overtime heroics showcased the team's resilience and depth, coming through in a high-pressure road environment. This marks a significant step forward for the Canucks' AHL affiliate in their playoff journey.
Weekend Happenings
Friday, May 23rd
Dinner in Barcelona Cooking Class
- Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
- Location: 20353 64 Ave #117, Langley, BC V2Y 1N5, Canada, 20353 64 Ave #117, Langley, BC V2Y 1N5, Canada
- What's On The Menu:
- Light Spot Prawn Stew with Summer Tomatoes, Garlic and Chilies, Watercress
- Traditional Paella with Clams, Marinated Chicken and Chorizo
- Summer Tomato Salad with Horseradish and Basil
- Summer radish Salad with Cucumbers and Preserved Chilies
- Burnt Basque Style Cheesecake, Summer Berries
Family Paint Party
- Time: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
- Location: Canlan Sports - Langley Twin Rinks, 5700 Langley Bypass
- Description: Get ready for a night of creativity and relaxation with Paint & Chill at Canlan Sport-Twin Rinks in Langley!
Join us for a Paint Nite event where you'll unleash your inner artist while sipping on your favorite drink and chilling with friends. Our talented artist will guide you step-by-step as you create your own masterpiece on canvas.
No experience necessary - just bring your enthusiasm and get ready to have a blast! So grab your friends, grab a drink, and let the paint and chill vibes take over as we create a one-of-a-kind artwork together.
Saturday, May 24th
Oldhand 10th Anniversary and Langley Grand Opening!
Time: 2:00pm - 5:00pm
Location: Oldhand Coffee, 20528 Fraser Hwy, Langley, BC V3A 4G2
Description: There will be music (read: day rave) including a DJ from 2-5pm 🎵
There will be vintage clothing vendors and a flower shop and exclusive Oldhand candles (Earl Grey Snickerdoodle candle anyone?)
There will be cupcakes and giveaways and a gift card sale and sparklers anddddd don’t forget about the evening!
We’ve got our friend chef Rafe Gilmore putting together a menu of snacks to go with our evening menu of natural wine and cocktails 🍹
LSRS SHREDDING EVENT
- Time: 10:00 AM
- Location: 20605 51B Avenue, Langley, BC, Canada, British Columbia V3A 9H1
- Description: Got sensitive documents to dispose of? Bring your old tax returns, bank statements, and other important papers for secure shredding!
Keep your personal information safe while enjoying a great community event.
🍔 Our Café will be open, serving up delicious burgers, hotdogs, poutine, and more!
🛍️ Our Tuk Shop Thrift Boutique will be having a special sale—don’t miss out! 💳 By Donation Only! We make it easy with our Tiptap Donation Pay Machine.
This event is open to all ages, so bring your family, friends, and neighbors! Let’s come together for a good cause, enjoy great food, and securely shred those old documents.
Festival of the Bees
- Time: 10:00 AM
- Location: 21177 Fraser Hwy, Langley Twp, BC V3A, Canada
- Description: Celebrate the official opening day of the Langley Demonstration Garden 2025!
Explore the wild world of bees and pollination at Langleyʼs Annual Festival of the Bees. Meet a variety of bee-wise folks who will educate and inspire. This free, kid-friendly event will include beeswax candle making, seed bomb creating, a plant sale, and more.
Wear a costume! Bees, butterflies, flowers, and other springtime costumes are encouraged. Refreshments available! Event will take place rain or shine, with plenty of covered space.
No registration required.
Bez Dance Recital - Something Out of Nothing
- Time: 2:00 PM
- Location: BEZ Arts Hub
- Description: Bez Dance & Amy Hamilton's Dance Arts Presents Something Out of Nothing.
Enjoy performances in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Contemporary, Modern, and Hip Hop as we bring various inventions to life through movement.
The Sunset Sessions Round 2
- Time: Doors at 6:00 PM, Performances at 7:00 PM
- Cost: $30
- Location: RussLynn Blueberries, 28494 Townshipline Road, Abbotsford, Canada
- Description: Welcome to The Sunset Sessions!
A Nashville style songwriters round nestled in the heart of Russlynn Blueberry Farm!
Acoustic Performances By: Zach McPhee, Dave Faber (of Faber Drive), Annika Catharina and Morgan Griffiths Come join us for a “Nashville Style Songwriters Round” inspired by the infamous “Bluebird Cafe” in Nashville but brought to your own backyard of Abbotsford, BC!
The evening will be filled with music, laughter & good times with each songwriter performing & sharing the stories behind their songs. Enjoy it all under a beautiful sunset sky at RUSSLYNN BLUEBERRY farm. There will be limited seating so make sure to get your tickets early.
Innerwild Band, Eagles Hall
- Time: 07:00 PM
- Location: Eagles Hall, 33868 Essendene Ave., Abbotsford, BC
- Description: First time on our stage, as a feature act, Innerwild - Abbotsford's favorite dance band.
This four piece band brings many a tune you know and love - from Rock & Roll to Blues to Swing, they round it all up and out for their audience.
They have Noel Gulbransen on bass, Warren Grosland on guitar, on sax, Freddie Schmidt, and Rick Noel on drums. Smooth operators!
Join us for another Fraser Valley Blues Society event, close to home, affordable tickets and friends galore waiting to meet you!
Igniting Hope: Celebrating 50 Years of Resilience
- Time: 6:00 PM
- Location: 33676 St Olaf Ave, Abbotsford, Canada
- Description: SARA for Women is a feminist non-profit society providing safe refuge and community-based resources for women in the Fraser Valley. They promote and support women’s efforts to achieve domestic, political, and social equality.
Come join us for a special in-person event at as we commemorate five decades of resilience, strength, and hope. This event is a celebration of overcoming challenges and embracing the power of community. Join us for a day filled with inspiring stories, live music, delicious food, and meaningful connections. Let's come together to honor the past and look towards a brighter future. Don't miss out on this unforgettable experience!
MOOD THERAPY LIVE @ Newlands Bar & Grill
- Time: 8:30 PM
- Location: Newlands Bar & Grill
- Description: Join us for a night of fantastic music, good vibes, and great company. Our talented lineup of artists will keep you grooving all night long.
Sunday, May 25th
Cake Baking Decorating Class
- Time: 1:00 pm - 3:00pm
- Location: 20353 64 Ave #117, Langley, BC V2Y 1N5, Canada
- Description: Learn how to frost and decorate an elegant cake with Chef Whitney!
- Vanilla Cake
Our starting pastry that we can add toppings onto - Swiss Meringue Buttercream
A delicious topping made with brown sugar.
- Vanilla Cake
Family Paint Party
- Time: 3:00 PM
- Location: Guildford Golf & Country Club, 7929 152nd Street, Surrey
- Description: Whether you're an experienced artist or just picking up a brush for the first time, our fun and easy-to-follow event is designed for everyone.
Enjoy step-by-step guidance from our talented hosts as you create your own masterpiece in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
Sip, paint, and make unforgettable memories! Bring your friends, a date, or come solo and meet new people.
With delicious drinks, tasty food, and a lively setting, you’re in for a fantastic evening!
Bez Gospel Choir Spring Concert
- Time: 6:30 PM
- Location: BEZ Arts Hub
- Description: At Chief Sepass in Fort Langley.
Get ready for an electrifying evening of soul-stirring gospel music led by our dynamic choir director and arranger, Lincoln Tatem, and accompanied by the extraordinary, award-winning pianist Diane Lines.