Welcome to today's news roundup!
It's Easter Monday and whether you are back to the daily grind of work, or enjoying an extra day of vacation, we've got some interesting stories for your review this morning.
From Langley's dedicated walkers keeping traditions alive to Pope Francis' death at age 88, here's a glimpse at the stories making headlines locally and across Canada.
Local Langley News
Longtime Aldergrove Local Maintains Langley Walk Legacy
Chris Lakusta has marked an impressive milestone as a dedicated participant in the iconic Langley Walk, having completed 24 of the 62 annual events. This remarkable commitment showcases how community traditions continue to thrive through dedicated locals who maintain connections to the area's history.
Lakusta's ongoing participation highlights the importance of community gatherings that bring people together through shared activities and experiences, especially those with deep historical roots in the region.
Langley Township Spring Clean-Up Draws Community Participation
The annual Township clean-up initiative has mobilized residents to spruce up their neighborhoods, with volunteers turning out in significant numbers across the community. The event brings together people of all ages to collect litter, clear debris, and beautify public spaces throughout Langley Township.
These community-driven environmental efforts not only improve the appearance of local neighborhoods but also foster a sense of shared responsibility and pride in public spaces. Events like these demonstrate how collective action can make tangible differences in community well-being.
Details Emerge About Langley Explosion in Forfeiture Case
New information has come to light through a government forfeiture claim regarding an explosion at a Langley property, revealing the house was allegedly being used as an illegal cannabis drug lab. The case details were made public through legal documents as authorities pursue seizure of the property through civil proceedings.
The explosion, which raised significant safety concerns for the neighborhood, underscores ongoing challenges with illicit operations despite cannabis legalization. The forfeiture claim provides insight into how authorities are responding to potentially dangerous illegal activities in residential areas.
Homicide Investigation Follows Body Discovery in Langley City After Good Friday Fire
Homicide investigators have been called in after a body was discovered following a fire at a Langley City apartment building on the morning of Good Friday.
The incident took place in the 20500-block of 56 Avenue, just a few hundred meters from the fire that destroyed a building on the Langley one-way last fall. It prompted a significant emergency response when the blaze was reported shortly after 7 a.m.
Authorities are now treating the death as suspicious, with the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team taking over the case. The circumstances surrounding both the fire and the death remain under active investigation.
Regional Vancouver / Fraser Valley News
Climate Emergency: BC Officials Warn of Imminent Flood and Fire Threats
British Columbia government officials are urging residents to prepare emergency go-bags and secure proper insurance coverage as the province faces dual threats from potential spring flooding and an active wildfire season.
The BC Wildfire Service warns of heightened fire risks due to ongoing drought conditions, with Forests Minister Ravi Parmar referencing California's recent destructive fires as a sobering example of what could occur without "significant and sustained" rainfall.
Emergency Management Minister Kelly Greene emphasized that climate change impacts have been "devastating," pointing to record-breaking wildfires in 2023 and extreme weather events like the 2021 atmospheric river and heat dome, while stressing that insurance should be secured before disasters strike when it may become unavailable.
Wildfire Near Princeton Now Under Control
A wildfire that broke out south of Princeton on April 18 has been successfully brought under control by firefighting crews.
The swift response to the blaze highlights the ongoing fire risks in the region, even in spring conditions that might typically be considered lower risk for wildfire activity.
The effective containment of this fire showcases improved wildfire response capabilities, especially as climate change continues to extend traditional fire seasons. Early intervention remains crucial for preventing these incidents from developing into larger threats.
BC's Silver-Haired Skateboarders Defy Age Stereotypes
Three aging skateboarders in their late 50s and beyond are challenging perceptions of what's possible in later life by continuing to pursue their passion for skateboarding.
These silver-haired enthusiasts demonstrate how an inherently risky sport can remain a fulfilling part of life well into one's later years.
Their stories offer insights into how physical activity, community connection, and continued pursuit of passions contribute to fulfilling aging. The skateboarders' experiences highlight changing attitudes toward aging and active lifestyles across generations.
Park Board Commissioner Claims Discrimination After Pool Vote
Vancouver Park Board commissioner Jas Virdi has spoken out about what he describes as a dysfunctional board environment, claiming discrimination after storming out of a recent meeting regarding a South Vancouver pool decision.
The incident has brought attention to the ongoing tensions between the political party that controls Vancouver City Council (ABC) and the independent commissioners, whom Virdi claims are hindering the board's ability to function effectively.
This conflict comes amid broader questions about the Park Board's ability to address community needs and make progress on important recreational facilities. The episode reflects deeper governance challenges within Vancouver's civic institutions.
Chilliwack Family Remains in Ukraine Despite Ongoing War
As war grinds on in Ukraine, a Chilliwack family that initially intended to stay for just one year has made the difficult decision to remain in the conflict zone. Chad Martz, reflecting on the situation during Easter celebrations, wants people to understand that despite fading headlines, the war in Ukraine continues with devastating consequences.
Their choice to stay illustrates the complex personal decisions made by humanitarian workers in conflict zones, where leaving can feel like abandoning those in need. The family's experience provides a personal window into the ongoing reality of a war that has largely slipped from daily news coverage.
National Canadian News
Pope Francis Dies at 88, Leaves Legacy of Progressive Leadership
Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church and first from Latin America, died Monday at age 88 after suffering from chronic lung disease.
His death follows a 38-day hospitalization for double pneumonia, with his final public appearance occurring just one day prior when he blessed crowds in St. Peter's Square on Easter Sunday.
For Canadians, Francis will be particularly remembered for his historic 2022 apology for the Catholic Church's role in residential schools, delivered during a "penitential pilgrimage" to Maskwacis, Alberta.
His legacy includes progressive reforms, outreach to marginalized communities, and efforts to make the Church more responsive to ordinary believers.
Federal Election Campaign Heats Up in British Columbia
Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre and NDP leader Jagmeet Singh have both focused campaign efforts on battleground British Columbia, addressing inflation and cost of living concerns.
Poilievre pledged to slash Ottawa's consultant budget by $10 billion to help bring down inflation, while Singh promised to combat grocery store price gouging if elected.
With the April 28 election approaching, B.C. has emerged as a key strategic region that polling suggests could give Poilievre his best chance at victory. Both leaders are tailoring economic messages to address the affordability challenges facing many British Columbians.
Drug Crisis Takes Heavy Toll on Saskatoon
Saskatoon's worsening drug crisis has resulted in multiple deaths and hundreds of emergency calls, overwhelming first responders and community services.
Since January, firefighters have responded to over 900 drug poisoning incidents, with more than half occurring in March alone, while coroners have confirmed seven overdose deaths in the city this year.
The crisis has far-reaching impacts, forcing two libraries to close temporarily and straining emergency services, with many organizations calling for increased housing and support services. The situation highlights systemic failures in addressing addiction, homelessness, and mental health challenges.
Sports News
⚽ Vancouver FC Extends Winless Streak After Calgary Draw
Vancouver FC's frustrating run of form continued as they played to a tie against Calgary, extending their winless streak to an alarming 11 consecutive matches.
The draw represents another missed opportunity for the team to secure a much-needed victory and halt their slide down the standings.
Despite showing moments of promise, Vancouver has struggled to convert opportunities into wins, raising questions about what changes might be needed to reverse their fortunes. The team now faces mounting pressure to end this disappointing sequence in their next fixture.
🏒 Abbotsford Canucks Secure Playoff Position, Host Tucson
The Abbotsford Canucks have clinched the second seed in their division and will host the Tucson Roadrunners in the opening round of the AHL playoffs.
The series is set to begin on Wednesday, April 23, giving the Canucks home-ice advantage as they begin their postseason campaign.
This achievement caps off a successful regular season for Abbotsford, who have positioned themselves as serious contenders in the Calder Cup playoffs. The team will look to capitalize on their strong regular season performance as they pursue a deep playoff run.
🏒 Canadian Olympic Women's Hockey Team Revamps Preparation Approach
Canada's preparation for the 2026 Olympic women's hockey tournament is undergoing a dramatic transformation, moving away from the traditional six-month centralization model.
The change comes as the Professional Women's Hockey League now provides much of what Hockey Canada historically delivered, eliminating the need for players to relocate to Calgary for half a year of Olympic team tryouts.
Team GM Gina Kingsbury faces the challenge of getting prospective Olympic players together enough without the centralized approach, relying instead on training blocks and the PWHL season for player development. This represents a significant shift in how Canada prepares to defend its gold medal at the Milan-Cortina Olympics.
🥍 Langley Thunder Make Player Moves with Nanaimo Trade
The Langley Thunder lacrosse team have bolstered their roster through a strategic swap with the Nanaimo Timbermen, adding two new players to their lineup.
This personnel move comes as the team looks to strengthen its competitive position for the upcoming season through strategic player acquisitions.
The trade represents ongoing efforts by the Thunder's management to build a team capable of challenging for championships. The new arrivals are expected to bring fresh talent and additional depth to the roster.
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