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Happy Friday, Langley!
With overcast skies and temperatures reaching 19°C in Langley today, our community continues to buzz with activity and important developments.
This week's roundup features significant political tensions as Mayor Woodward takes legal action against rivals over anonymous social media campaigns, while the police continue to investigate tragic violence in our community.
On a brighter note, new sports facilities are opening their doors and our young athletes are making us proud on national stages, even as serious concerns emerge about Langley's animal welfare services and the need for greater community consultation in municipal decisions.
This weekend is also packed with exciting events, including the annual stɑl̓əw̓ Pow-Wow at the Langley Events Centre, as well as the MCC Festival for World Relief at the Tradex in Abbotsford.
Local Langley News
Langley City Mayor Outlines Federal Advocacy Strategy After Previous Funding Snubs
Langley City Mayor Nathan Pachal has announced plans for a second Ottawa mission this fall, acknowledging that the municipality's lack of federal relationship-building likely cost the community numerous funding opportunities.
Pachal describes effective local governance as a "three-legged stool" requiring representation, governing ability, and advocacy, with the latter being Langley City's weakest area at the federal level.
The upcoming trip will focus on securing immigration support, infrastructure funding, and changes to federal building height restrictions, building on a 2024 mission that revealed many federal officials were unaware Langley City even existed.
While Pachal emphasizes the importance of face-to-face relationship building over digital communication, the admission that poor federal advocacy may have resulted in missed funding highlights how municipal governments often struggle to navigate complex intergovernmental dynamics that directly impact local communities.
Township Mayor Woodward Sues Political Opponents Over Anonymous Social Media Campaign
Township of Langley Mayor Eric Woodward has filed a defamation lawsuit against several political rivals, including former B.C. Liberal cabinet minister Rich Coleman, over an anonymous Facebook group and website critical of his administration.
Court documents reveal that Angelo Isidorou, executive director of the B.C. Conservative Party, created the Langley Township Watch Facebook group through a $250,000 contract with a numbered company directed by Coleman.
The lawsuit centers on posts and videos questioning two fire truck contracts worth approximately $11 million and the relationship between Woodward and the contractor.
While neither Woodward's allegations nor the original anonymous posts have been tested in court, the case highlights ongoing political tensions in Langley Township in the run-up to the October municipal by-election.
Man, 24, identified as victim of Langley taxi shooting
Homicide investigators have identified 24-year-old Taran Pandher as the victim in a fatal shooting that occurred in a Langley taxi on Friday night of last week.
Pandher, who was known to police, was found by Langley RCMP near 200th Street and 53rd Avenue just before 10:30 p.m.
Despite officers' attempts to provide lifesaving measures at the scene, Pandher succumbed to his injuries. The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) has now taken over the case and is seeking witnesses to help solve this targeted killing.
Langley's Smith soccer fields open for players
Langley's brand new Smith soccer fields have officially opened to players, marking the completion of the first phase of a larger soccer and athletics complex.
The state-of-the-art facility features multiple regulation pitches with high-quality turf surfaces designed for year-round play.
Local soccer clubs are already scheduling practices and games at the venue, which represents a significant investment in community sports infrastructure.
Township officials indicate that future phases will include additional athletic facilities to create a comprehensive sports hub for the region.
Young Langley curlers to play in Junior Grand Slam
A talented group of young Langley curlers has earned a coveted spot to compete in the upcoming Junior Grand Slam tournament. This prestigious event brings together the best youth curling teams from across North America, making it a significant achievement for the local athletes.
Team members have emphasized that "this isn't just another bonspiel," highlighting the elite level of competition they'll face. The tournament will provide invaluable experience as they progress in their curling careers and represent Langley on a national stage.
LETTER: LAPS Founder's daughter pleads for change of heart by Township
The daughter of a local animal care facility founder has written an impassioned letter urging Langley Township to reconsider cancelling their animal services contract.
In her heartfelt appeal, she argues that public consultation should be mandatory before such a significant decision is made.
The letter emphasizes the historical importance of the facility to Langley's animal welfare infrastructure and calls for transparency in the decision-making process.
Community members have started rallying around the cause, highlighting the potential impact on abandoned and injured animals in the region.
Regional Vancouver / Fraser Valley News
Starfish Packs Set to Feed 730 Students This School Year Amid Rising Need
The Archway Starfish Pack program is ramping up operations to provide weekend food for 730 Abbotsford students facing food insecurity.
As the school year begins, this vital initiative will distribute over 25,000 weekend food packs containing essentials to bridge the gap between school food programs.
"The number of families reaching out for help is growing, and unfortunately, funding is not keeping up with the food costs or the requests for service," explains Rebecca Thuro, Archway Food Security Manager.
The program relies on generous donors to cover its $800,000 annual operating costs while volunteers help keep expenses manageable.
B.C. expands nurse practitioner training at 3 universities
The British Columbia government has announced a significant expansion of nurse practitioner education, adding 65 new training seats across three provincial universities.
UBC, UVic, and UNBC will all see increases in their capacity to train these crucial healthcare professionals.
This expansion comes as part of the province's strategy to address healthcare staffing shortages and improve access to primary care.
Nurse practitioners play an increasingly vital role in BC's healthcare system, providing comprehensive services that help reduce the burden on physicians while expanding care options for patients across the region.
National Canadian News
Three Newfoundlanders Join International Effort to Break Gaza Blockade
Nikita Stapleton, Sadie Mees, and Devoney Ellis have traveled to the Mediterranean to join the Freedom Flotilla Coalition's humanitarian mission attempting to deliver aid to Gaza and challenge Israel's illegal blockade.
The three activists, who were previously arrested during Memorial University's Palestine solidarity encampment, are part of a growing international civilian convoy that includes over 350 people from 44 countries seeking to break the siege that has trapped 2.1 million Palestinians in what UN experts call "the direst humanitarian crisis."
Their mission comes as one flotilla vessel was already struck by a drone attack in Tunisia, highlighting the dangers faced by unarmed civilians carrying medical supplies and food to a population experiencing manufactured famine.
The Newfoundlanders are calling on Canadians to pressure the federal government to ensure safe passage for humanitarian vessels and implement a complete arms embargo against Israel, as civil society steps up where governments have failed to act against genocide.
Analysis: Liberal Government Plans Austerity Budget to Fund Military Expansion
Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives researchers warn that the fall parliamentary session will see the Liberal government push through massive cuts to public services to pay for unprecedented military spending increases that weren't part of their election platform.
The minority government is expected to slash 57,000 jobs by 2028 while cutting transfers to First Nations, provinces, and non-profits, all framed as "efficiency" measures despite the obvious impact on service delivery.
Meanwhile, climate action continues to stagnate as the government prepares to fast-track "national interest" megaprojects through weakened environmental review processes, likely favoring fossil fuel infrastructure over renewable energy development.
The session will also feature controversial border militarization legislation that expands police surveillance powers and creates legal frameworks for mass deportations, representing a troubling shift toward right-wing policies that prioritize corporate interests and military spending over public services and worker protections.
Former Conservative MP Used Forged Documents to Smear Defense Reporter
Former Conservative MP Chris Alexander used forged documents to falsely accuse Ottawa Citizen defense reporter David Pugliese of being a Russian intelligence asset during parliamentary hearings on disinformation. A seven-month forensic analysis by independent researcher Giuseppe Bianchin concluded that the documents Alexander submitted were fabricated, featuring typeface that wasn't created until three years after the documents' supposed dates and identical dust specks that could only exist in computer-generated files. Multiple international typography and handwriting experts confirmed the documents were created on modern computers rather than Soviet-era typewriters, with handwritten portions appearing to be written by a single person despite claiming to come from different authors in different cities. Pugliese, who has extensively reported on military procurement scandals and sexual assault in the Canadian Armed Forces, views the attack as part of broader efforts to intimidate journalists who hold powerful institutions accountable.
Renowned ecologist and beaver expert Glynnis Hood is challenging Canadians to reconsider their perceptions of these industrious rodents. Through her extensive research and passionate advocacy, Hood demonstrates how beavers play a crucial role in maintaining healthy ecosystems across the country.
Hood's work highlights the beaver's remarkable ability to create wetland habitats that support biodiversity and help mitigate climate change impacts like drought and flooding. Despite their reputation as nuisance animals, Hood argues that beavers should be recognized as valuable environmental engineers whose activities provide essential ecological services.
Sports News
🏒 NHL suspends players acquitted in 2018 sexual assault trial until Dec. 1
The National Hockey League has announced that the five players acquitted in the Hockey Canada sexual assault trial will be eligible to return to play no sooner than December 1, 2025.
These unrestricted free agents can begin signing with teams on October 15 while awaiting full reinstatement.
Michael McLeod, Dillon Dube, and others involved in the case now face significant decisions about their hockey futures.
The NHL's ruling attempts to balance acknowledging the court's verdict while addressing the broader concerns about player conduct and league standards.
âš˝ Rested Vancouver Whitecaps prepared for tough test against MLS-leading Philadelphia Union
After a well-deserved break, the Vancouver Whitecaps are gearing up for a challenging match against the league-leading Philadelphia Union.
Head coach Jesper Sorensen, who has guided the team through an impressive first nine months, acknowledges the formidable challenge ahead but remains optimistic about his squad's chances.
The Whitecaps have used their rest period strategically to refine tactics and recover from injuries. This match represents a crucial test of Vancouver's playoff aspirations as they face arguably the strongest team in the MLS during this critical late-season stretch.
âš˝ New addition Latifah Abdu making an impact with Vancouver Rise
Canadian forward Latifah Abdu has made an immediate impression with the Vancouver Rise, scoring just 14 minutes into her debut match.
This remarkable start highlights the skill and confidence that made her a priority signing for the professional women's soccer club.
Abdu's quick adaptation to her new team's style has impressed both coaches and teammates alike.
Her scoring prowess adds a significant offensive dimension to the Rise as they push for playoff contention in what has become an increasingly competitive league.
Weekend Happenings
Friday Sep 12th, 2025
stɑl̓əw̓ Pow-Wow
- Time: 4:00 to 10:30pm
- Location: Langley Events Centre, 7888 200 St, Langley Twp, BC V2Y 3J4
- Schedule of Events:
- 4:00 pm Registration begins
- 6:00 pm Doors open to the public
- 6:45 pm Drum Roll Call
- 7:00 pm Grand entry / Matsqui First Nation Welcome
- 7:30 pm Contest starts for drum & all dance categories
- 8:00 pm Registration closed (until Saturday)
- 10:30 pm Closing of colour
MCC Festival for World Relief
- Time: 5:00 to 9:00pm
- Location: Tradex, 1190 Cornell St, Abbotsford, BC
- Description: Join us for the ultimate Mennonite heritage celebration, featuring beloved eastern-European dishes passed down through generations, plus new favourites — all in support of MCC food projects around the world.
Indulge in the flavours of "oma's" kitchen. Top picks are: Vereniki & Farmer’s Sausage, Borscht, Watermelon & Rollkuchen, Portzelky and Plumi Moos.
West Fine Art Show
- Time: 5:00 to 9:00pm
- Location: Glass House Estate Winery, 23449 0 Ave, Aldergrove, BC
- Description: The highly popular West Fine Art Show, now in its 16th year, will once again present an exceptional group of 19 artists, creating a weekend long destination art show.
Amazing guitar music provided daily by John Gilliat. Parking & admission are free.
Saturday Sep 13th, 2025
MCC Festival for World Relief
- Time: 9:00am to 2:00pm
- Location: Tradex, 1190 Cornell St, Abbotsford, BC
- Description: Join us for the ultimate Mennonite heritage celebration, featuring beloved eastern-European dishes passed down through generations, plus new favourites — all in support of MCC food projects around the world.
Indulge in the flavours of "oma's" kitchen. Top picks are: Vereniki & Farmer’s Sausage, Borscht, Watermelon & Rollkuchen, Portzelky and Plumi Moos.
stɑl̓əw̓ Pow-Wow
- Time: 11:00am to 10:30pm
- Location: Langley Events Centre, 7888 200 St, Langley Twp, BC V2Y 3J4
- Schedule of Events:
- 11:00am Registration opens
- 12:00 pm Registration closes
- 12:00 pm Doors open to public
- 12:45 pm Drum roll call
- 1:00 pm Grand entry / Kwantlen First Nation Welcome
- 1:30 pm Drum contest / Intertribal
- First go around for Red Dress and Orange Shirt specials must be registered
- Contest Jr, Teen, Golden age categories
- 5:00 pm Dinner Break / Performance groups
- 7:00 pm Grand Entry / Semiahmoo First Nation Welcome
- 7:30 pm Continue with drum contest
- Second go around for Red Dress and Orange Shirt specials
- Contest Jr Adult & Senior Adult categories
- 10:30 pm Closing of Colours
Tony Furtado Trio
- Time: 8:00 to 10:00pm
- Location: BEZ Arts Hub, 20230 64 Avenue #102, Langley, BC V2Y 1N3
- Description: Featuring master mandolinist John Reischman and the innovative violinist Trent Freeman. Singer/songwriter Tony Furtado delivers his exciting brand of Americana Roots music with a virtuosic ability on banjo, cello-banjo, slide guitar and baritone ukulele.
Air Fair at the Langley Regional Airport
- Time: 10:00
- Location: Langley Regional Airport, Langley Regional Airport, Langley, Canada
- Description: Explore your local airport and learn about its operations, aircraft, services, onsite businesses, and how it contributes to the Township of Langley community and economy.
Plus, enjoy activities for the whole family, including the Young Aviators Kids Zone with interactive activities, food and beverage vendors, a marketplace zone, and more!
Ranjit Bawa in Abbotsford
- Time: 7:00pm
- Location: Abbotsford Centre, Abbotsford Centre, Abbotsford, BC, Canada
- Description: This is not just a concert—it's a moment you'll talk about for years. Ranjit Bawa is set to light up Abbotsford Centre with their unforgettable sound on Saturday, September 13, 2025.
With fan-favorite hits like Yaari Chandigarh Waliye, Phulkari and Gorgeous and 5.7M+ devoted followers, this is the kind of show that leaves you speechless.
PUMPKINS SPICE CREAMSICLE LAUNCH PARTY!
- Time: 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM
- Location: Dead Frog Brewing, 8860 201 St #105, Langley, British Columbia V2Y 0C8, Canada
- Description: Introducing the Pumpkin Spice Creamsicle, coming your way September 13. A smooth, creamy, and cozy seasonal brew packed with pumpkin and perfectly balanced with hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
We’re launching it here at our Brewery & Tasting Room on Saturday September 13 and throwing a party all day to celebrate! Here are a few things we have lined up:
🍂Pumpkin Spice Creamsicle in cans and on tap
🍂Pumpkin Spice Creamsicle on NITRO! So smooth and so creamy.
🍂Pumpkin Spice Creamsicle floats
🍂Fritter pairing with our friends from @frittersandfriends
West Fine Art Show
- Time: 11:00am to 7:00pm
- Location: Glass House Estate Winery, 23449 0 Ave, Aldergrove, BC
- Description: The highly popular West Fine Art Show, now in its 16th year, will once again present an exceptional group of 19 artists, creating a weekend long destination art show.
Amazing guitar music provided daily by John Gilliat. Parking & admission are free.
Sunday Sep 14th, 2025
stɑl̓əw̓ Pow-Wow
- Time: 11:00am to 6:00pm
- Location: Langley Events Centre, 7888 200 St, Langley Twp, BC V2Y 3J4
- Schedule of Events:
- 11:00 am Doors Open to Public
- 12:00 pm stɑl̓əw̓ Pow-wow – Pageant
- 12:45 pm Drum Roll Call
- 1:00 pm Grand Entry / Katzie First Nation Welcome
- 1:30 pm Competitions/Drum Contest
- 3:00 pm Crowning for stɑl̓əw̓ Pow-wow Pageant
- Women’s Hat & Boot special
- Men’s Hat & Boot special
- 4:30 pm Committee/Volunteer Honouring
- 5:30 pm Closing of Colours
- 6:00 pm Payouts to Champions
2025 Terry Fox Run
- Time: Registration: 9:00 am, Run: 10:00 am
- Location: Douglas Park - 20550 Douglas Crescent, Langley, BC
- Description: The annual Terry Fox Run has become a fall tradition in Canada, with more than 650 communities, big and small, urban and rural, English and French, fundraising for cancer research.
The Run gives communities the chance to come together to celebrate the
impact they can have as a force for good.
West Fine Art Show
- Time: 11:00am to 5:00pm
- Location: Glass House Estate Winery, 23449 0 Ave, Aldergrove, BC
- Description: The highly popular West Fine Art Show, now in its 16th year, will once again present an exceptional group of 19 artists, creating a weekend long destination art show.
Amazing guitar music provided daily by John Gilliat. Parking & admission are free.
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