Happy Friday, friends!
Today's news roundup brings both heartwarming stories and important community developments across Langley and the Fraser Valley.
A touching reunion between heart attack survivor Charlie Xue and one of his rescuers reminds us how quick thinking and CPR knowledge can truly save lives, while also highlighting the kindness that connects neighbors in moments of crisis.
On the civic front, residents have new ways to engage with local government through the city's data visualization tool and ongoing community safety feedback initiative. Meanwhile, tonight's NHL Entry Draft has Canucks fans watching to see what moves management makes with their 15th overall pick.
Whether you're planning to catch the free outdoor movie tonight at Willowbrook, try your hand at speed dating, or dive into some meditative yoga nidra, this weekend offers plenty of ways to connect with your community and unwind.
Local Langley News
LETTER: Langley heart attack victim meets one of his life savers
A heartwarming reunion has taken place between a Langley heart attack victim and one of the individuals who saved his life. Charlie Xue, who suffered a severe cardiac episode in a public area, reached out to the local newspaper in hopes of finding his rescuers.
The emotional meeting brought closure for both Xue and his good samaritan, highlighting the importance of CPR knowledge and quick action in emergency situations. Medical professionals note that immediate intervention in cardiac events significantly increases survival rates.
Xue expressed profound gratitude to all those involved in saving his life, saying the experience has given him a new perspective on community and kindness.
New Langley City Data Tool Empowers Residents to Explore
Langley residents now have unprecedented access to city data through the municipality's new visualization tool at data.langleycity.ca, providing working-class communities with powerful information about their community.
This grassroots-friendly platform allows residents to explore housing statistics, business activity, and population trends through interactive charts that can expose patterns of inequality and gentrification in different neighborhoods.
Langley City Seeks Resident Input to Guide Citizens' Assembly on Community Safety
Langley City is calling on all residents to share their perspectives on community safety and well-being through a public feedback initiative that will directly inform the ongoing Citizens' Assembly process.
This consultation represents a crucial opportunity for working-class voices to shape how the city approaches safety beyond traditional policing models, ensuring that community members most affected by current policies have a direct say in developing alternatives.
The feedback will supplement the Citizens' Assembly's work by capturing broader community experiences and priorities around issues like housing security, mental health supports, and neighborhood solidarity that address the root causes of safety concerns.
Regional Vancouver / Fraser Valley News
Public Safety minister unveils plan in Surrey to tackle South Asian extortion crisis
A comprehensive strategy to combat the escalating extortion crisis targeting South Asian businesses has been unveiled by the Public Safety Minister during a press conference in Surrey. Officials revealed that at least 12 confirmed cases have been documented since the beginning of 2025, though experts believe the actual number is significantly higher due to underreporting.
The multi-faceted approach includes enhanced police resources, specialized investigation teams, and community outreach initiatives designed to encourage victims to come forward. Cultural sensitivity training for law enforcement aims to address barriers that have prevented victims from reporting these crimes.
Community leaders expressed cautious optimism about the new measures while emphasizing the need for sustained effort to dismantle the criminal networks behind these systematic extortion attempts.
PHOTOS: Abbotsford Canucks celebrate Calder Cup win
The Abbotsford Canucks are basking in championship glory as players and staff celebrate their historic first-ever Calder Cup victory. The American Hockey League affiliate of the Vancouver Canucks brought home the prestigious trophy after a thrilling playoff run that captivated Fraser Valley hockey fans.
Celebrations included a raucous locker room party where champagne flowed freely among jubilant players who had battled through a grueling season and playoff tournament. Community members have turned out in force to share in the excitement of this monumental achievement.
This championship represents a significant milestone for the relatively young franchise and provides a boost to hockey's growing popularity throughout the Fraser Valley region.
National Canadian News
Canadian peace advocates want to see Carney condemn US-Israel attacks on Iran
Peace organizations across Canada are calling on Prime Minister Mark Carney to take a definitive stance against recent military actions by the United States and Israel targeting Iranian facilities. The attacks, which have escalated regional tensions, have yet to receive official condemnation from the Canadian government.
Advocates argue that Canada's silence implicitly endorses military aggression that violates international law and threatens global stability. Many policy experts have expressed concern that the lack of diplomatic leadership from middle powers like Canada contributes to the normalization of unilateral military action.
The advocacy groups are urging Carney to leverage Canada's diplomatic position to promote de-escalation and peaceful resolution through multilateral frameworks and dialogue.
Finding myself in blood, flesh, veins and bug bites — life at a hide camp for Two-Spirit Indigenous youth
An immersive experience at the Niizh Manidook Hide Camp is providing Two-Spirit Indigenous youth with transformative connections to cultural practices and ancestral knowledge. Participants engage in the traditional process of tanning deer hides, learning to embrace the messy, physical nature of this ancient craft.
The camp creates a safe, affirming space where Two-Spirit individuals can explore their identities while reconnecting with land-based traditions that have sustained Indigenous communities for generations. Elders guide participants through ceremonial aspects of hide tanning, emphasizing the spiritual significance behind each step.
Beyond technical skills, the program fosters intergenerational knowledge transfer and community healing, offering powerful counternarratives to colonial disruptions of Indigenous cultural continuity.
Indigenous advocate from Montreal turns down coronation medal from King Charles III
A prominent Indigenous advocate and executive director of the Native Women's Shelter in Montreal has made headlines by declining a coronation medal from King Charles III. Na'kuset, who has served in her role for over two decades, explained her decision as a principled stance against accepting recognition from an institution symbolically tied to colonial legacies.
The advocate emphasized that while she appreciates acknowledgment of her work, accepting the medal would conflict with her commitment to decolonization and Indigenous sovereignty. Her decision has sparked important conversations about reconciliation, symbolism, and the complex relationship between Indigenous peoples and the Crown.
Many Indigenous leaders have expressed support for Na'kuset's choice, noting that meaningful reconciliation requires examining institutional representations of colonial power dynamics.
Sports News
🏀 Filipino basketball league in Surrey connects Bandits, broadcasters
The thriving Batang Pinoy Basketball League in Surrey has become a vibrant cultural hub connecting Canadian Basketball League players with Filipino community members and broadcasters. Games held at Fraser Heights gymnasiums have drawn increasing participation and spectator interest, creating a unique cross-cultural sporting environment.
Professional players from the Fraser Valley Bandits have found meaningful connections through the league, some reconnecting with their Filipino heritage while others discover new cultural appreciation. The league has also provided a platform for Tagalog-language broadcasting talent to develop their skills.
Community organizers note that the league's success represents the growing influence and integration of Filipino culture within the broader Fraser Valley sports landscape.
🏒 Canucks Ready for 2025 NHL Entry Draft Tonight with Key Decisions Ahead
The 2025 NHL Entry Draft kicks off tonight at 7 PM EST with Vancouver holding the 15th overall pick, giving the franchise a prime opportunity to add elite talent to their system.
The Canucks face important decisions as they potentially look to address their ongoing search for a top-six center, with general manager Jim Rutherford indicating most of the team's offseason work should be completed before free agency begins.
While prospects like skilled Quebec winger Justin Carbonneau have been linked to Vancouver's pick, the organization may also explore trading the selection as part of a larger deal to fill immediate roster needs.
Tonight's draft represents a crucial moment for a Canucks team looking to build sustainable success for their passionate fanbase, with the potential for significant roster movement that could shape the franchise's direction for years to come.
⚽ Joy of playing soccer for Canada returns for B.C.'s Jordyn Huitema after harrowing U.S. home invasion
Canadian national team forward Jordyn Huitema is approaching Friday's friendly against Costa Rica in Toronto with renewed enthusiasm following a traumatic home invasion experience just weeks ago.
The B.C. native appears to have found healing through returning to the pitch with her national teammates.
The forward has been showing increased energy and focus in training sessions, according to coaching staff. Her resilience highlights the therapeutic role that sport can play in recovery from psychological trauma, providing structure and community support during difficult times.
Looking ahead, Huitema is particularly motivated for Canada's upcoming match against the U.S. on July 2, describing it as "the game you want to win, for sure."
Weekend Happenings
Friday Jun 27th, 2025
Italian dinner pop up at the rail and river
- Time: 5:00 - 9:00 PM
- Location: Riverside Community Room, 9273 Glover Road, Langley Township, BC, Canada
- Description: Come and enjoy a night out with family or a dinner of 2.
We will be having 60 seats in 2 settings. 1st seating is 5pm, 2nd seating is 7:30pm.
We will be making every dish from scratch including house made pastas, pizzas and a couple of salads and choices of 3 house made italian dessert. - Please call the River and Rail Bistro (604-888-3342) to put in your reservations.
Outdoor Movie Night at Willowbrook: The Garfield Movie
- Time: 6:00 - 8:00 PM
- Location: Willowbrook Shopping Centre, 19705 Fraser Highway, Langley, British Columbia V3A 7E9
- Description: Bring a chair or blanket when you join us for Friday movie nights — featuring a star-studded lineup of family favourites and timeless classics!
STRAIGHT SPEED DATING AT OAK & THORNE
- Time: 6:00 - 9:00 pm
- Location: Oak & Thorne, 20173 88th Avenue, Langley, BC, V1M 2N9
- Description: Come join us at Oak & Thorne Neighbourhood Public House for an exciting night of Straight Speed Dating!
Whether you’re hoping to find romance, make new friends, or simply enjoy a great night out, this event is the perfect opportunity to connect. Dress to impress and bring your best talking points—first impressions matter!
Don’t miss out on this unique and exciting evening—come ready to mingle!
Please arrive early, party responsibly and plan for a safe ride home.
Yoga Nidra with Sue Armstrong
- Time: 7:00
- Location: 20826 72 Ave, Unit 115, Langley, BC, Canada, British Columbia V2Y3J5, 20826 72 Ave, Unit 115, Langley, BC, Canada, British Columbia V2Y3J5
- Description: Come experience the transformative power of this meditative practice!
What is Yoga Nidra?
The Sanskrit word Nidra translates to 'sleep', although Conscious Meditative Awareness is a more accurate description.
Yoga Nidra is a practice which gently illuminates the deepest corners of our subconscious mind. From here we can change old outdated belief systems, and work towards eliminating the root cause of suffering.
What to expect:
There will be some light physical practice and breathwork before the meditation so please wear comfortable clothing.
During the meditative portion you will be lying down on a mat, or if needed, a chair or bolster.
We will have time for integration after the practice, so please bring a journal and pen.
Why should I practice Yoga Nidra?
During our lifetime we can accumulate and internalize false beliefs which can become more harmful to our mental and physical health as we age. Our mental state directly effects the quality of the interactions we have with others. But, because these beliefs get stored deep in our subconscious we often are not aware of them directly, only by the ripples they create. Yoga Nidra helps to unearth these beliefs and gives us the tools to change them.
Paint Nite: Magic Garden Cat
- Time: 7:00 pm
- Location: Canlan Sports - Langley Twin Rinks, 5700 Langley ByPass, Langley, Canada
- 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. See you there!
Shakespeare’s The Merry Wives of Windsor
- Time: 7:00 - 10:00 pm
- Location: Township 7 Vineyards & Winery - South Langley, 16 Avenue, Langley Township, BC, Canada
- Description: Shakespeare's Merry Wives of Windsor: A most pleasant and excellent conceited comedy, of Sir John Falstaff, and the merry Wives of Windsor. Entermixed with the sundry variable and pleasing humours of Sir Hugh the Welsh knight, Justice Shallow and his wise Cousin M. Slender. With the swaggering vaine of ancient Pistoll, and corporal Nym.
Saturday Jun 28th, 2025
Surrey Pride Festival 2025
- Time: 12:00pm
- Location: Civic Plaza, 10277 King George Blvd, Surrey BC V3T 2W6
- Description: Live performances, Drag performances, and positive energy!
Nova Scotia Seafood Boil
- Time: 2:00
- Location: Roots and Wings Distillery, Roots and Wings Distillery, 7897 240 St, Langley Twp, BC V1M 3P9, Canada, Langley
- Description: Brine and Barnacle's Seafood Feast: A Nova Scotia Experience!
Join Roots and Wings Distillery and Brine & Barnacle Boil Company for an unforgettable seafood dining experience! Let your tastebuds journey to the shores of Nova Scotia with fresh, local seafood paired perfectly with craft cocktails. Guaranteed to leave you full and satisfied, this event promises a feast you won’t forget!
Ticket Price: $115
Choose between:
* Fresh Whole Dungeness Crab (1.5 lbs.)
* Fresh Whole Atlantic Lobster (1.5 lbs.)
Each boil includes:
* Mussels
* Prawns
* Fingerling potatoes
* Corn on the cob
* Fresh bread
* Melted butter
* Dessert
Seating Times Available:
* 2:00 PM - 4:30 PM
* 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Please note that GST and Craft Cocktails are not included in the ticket price.
3rd Annual MEAT IN THE STREET
- Time: 12:00
- Location: Royal Canadian Legion Branch #265, 26607 Fraser Highway, Aldergrove, BC
- Description: We are BACK with our 3rd Meat In The Street!!
Veronica and I are so excited to bring our pulled meat sandwich competition back to Aldergrove again this year in support of the Aldergrove Starfish Backpack Program!
Since the plaza is closed for events, we've moved to the Aldergrove Legion's back field. There's grass instead of gravel and tons of parking but please walk-up, if possible as we're expecting a lot of traffic.
We have FIVE Pit Masters this year with reigning champs DOUBLE D BBQ coming back to defend their title from 2024 and BIG DOG BBQ making a comeback from his 2023 win.
The sandwiches are real slider size this year so come hungry so you can try all five and vote for your favourite. Sliders are $5 each.
The Legion will be running their bar so we'll have a variety of options for you this year. Along with our lemonade and treat concession!
Come out 12-4pm on June 28th, taste and vote for your favourite slider and support a much needed program in our community.
Mug Painting n' Sip
- Time: 11:00 am
- Location: Taves Estate Cidery, 333 Gladwin Rd, Abbotsford, BC V2T 5Y1
- Description: Join us for a cozy day of mug painting on June 28th!
Your ticket includes a guided workshop by Shanice from KoKo-Lu Painting Cafe, a cider flight, and farm-made kettle corn to sip and snack while you create.
Choose from the following stencils to create your masterpiece:
- Camping
- Pineapple
- Lavender
- Strawberries
- Mosaic
CANADA DAY EXTRA LONG WEEKEND PARTY!
- Time: 11:00am - 10:00pm
- Location: Dead Frog Brewery & Tasting Room, 8860 201 St #105, Langley Twp, BC V2Y 0C8
- Description: Join us for our CANADA DAY EXTRA LONG WEEKEND PARTY Featuring CANADA PROUD CRAFT LAGER and MAPLE BACON EVERYTHING!
This year we’re celebrating Canada the best way we know how, with great beer and amazing eats made with Canadian ingredients. We’ll have special buckets of Canada Proud Craft Lager, 5 special weekend only Maple Bacon menu items, and more!🍁
The party goes from Saturday June 28 to Tuesday July 1! 4 DAYS OF PARTYING! Here’s what we have in store:
🍁Buckets of Canada Proud Craft Lager!
🍁A full MAPLE BACON menu!
🍁Lumberjack Beer Caesar!
🍁Live music June 29 from 2:30 to 6 by @jacob.dryden!
🍁Playlist of music by Canadian artists!
🍁Canada Gift Pack door prize!
Wear red & white and be entered to win our Canada gift pack!
Shakespeare’s The Merry Wives of Windsor
- Time: 7:00 - 10:00 pm
- Location: Township 7 Vineyards & Winery - South Langley, 16 Avenue, Langley Township, BC, Canada
- Description: Shakespeare's Merry Wives of Windsor: A most pleasant and excellent conceited comedy, of Sir John Falstaff, and the merry Wives of Windsor. Entermixed with the sundry variable and pleasing humours of Sir Hugh the Welsh knight, Justice Shallow and his wise Cousin M. Slender. With the swaggering vaine of ancient Pistoll, and corporal Nym.
Sunday Jun 29th, 2025
CANADA DAY EXTRA LONG WEEKEND PARTY!
- Time: 11:00am - 10:00pm
- Location: Dead Frog Brewery & Tasting Room, 8860 201 St #105, Langley Twp, BC V2Y 0C8
- Description: Join us for our CANADA DAY EXTRA LONG WEEKEND PARTY Featuring CANADA PROUD CRAFT LAGER and MAPLE BACON EVERYTHING!
This year we’re celebrating Canada the best way we know how, with great beer and amazing eats made with Canadian ingredients. We’ll have special buckets of Canada Proud Craft Lager, 5 special weekend only Maple Bacon menu items, and more!🍁
The party goes from Saturday June 28 to Tuesday July 1! 4 DAYS OF PARTYING! Here’s what we have in store:
🍁Buckets of Canada Proud Craft Lager!
🍁A full MAPLE BACON menu!
🍁Lumberjack Beer Caesar!
🍁Live music June 29 from 2:30 to 6 by @jacob.dryden!
🍁Playlist of music by Canadian artists!
🍁Canada Gift Pack door prize!
Wear red & white and be entered to win our Canada gift pack!
Shakespeare’s The Merry Wives of Windsor
- Time: 7:00 - 10:00 pm
- Location: Township 7 Vineyards & Winery - South Langley, 16 Avenue, Langley Township, BC, Canada
- Description: Shakespeare's Merry Wives of Windsor: A most pleasant and excellent conceited comedy, of Sir John Falstaff, and the merry Wives of Windsor. Entermixed with the sundry variable and pleasing humours of Sir Hugh the Welsh knight, Justice Shallow and his wise Cousin M. Slender. With the swaggering vaine of ancient Pistoll, and corporal Nym.
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