Monday - November 24 - A big win for the Valley’s rescuers

🌧 High 6°C

Good morning!

I had a very full Fraser Valley weekend. On Friday I caught Wicked: For Good at Galaxy Cinemas, then spent Saturday exploring District 1881—stopping into the new Mt. Waddington Outdoors and checking out the just-opened Emerson Park & Rec, americano from Smoking Gun in hand. From there, I headed to Whispering Horse Winery for their annual release event, which was absolutely packed. And on Sunday, I made my way to Harrison Mills for some eagle watching—a perfect way to take advantage of the sunshine.

Speaking of outdoor activity: today’s feature is on Chilliwack Search and Rescue, who just received some major recognition for their lifesaving work.

– William

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News & Features

Chilliwack Search and Rescue takes home top emergency service prize

Chilliwack Search and Rescue just scored one of the biggest honours in North America’s emergency-services world—taking home the top prize at the Land Rover Defender Service Awards. The all-volunteer team beat out finalists from B.C. and the U.S., earning a brand-new Defender 130 and $30,000 USD to support rescue operations in one of Canada’s busiest backcountry regions. How they won—and what it means for the Fraser Valley’s growing population—makes for a pretty great story.

Read the full article →

Need to Know

🔍 Abbotsford Police searched for missing 22-year-old Ubaidullah Khan last seen November 19 at 5:00 PM near McKenzie and Marshall roads, believed to be driving a white 2018 Toyota Prius. [Mission City Record]

🏊 Langley City launched a public consultation for a 10-year program to build an aquatic centre and performing arts space, with input sessions at Timms Community Centre on December 1 and online feedback available. [Langley Advance Times]

🍳 Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation's annual It's a Wonderful Breakfast fundraiser returns on December 4 from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM at Chartwell Lynnwood, collecting new unwrapped toys and toiletries for hospital patients with $30 tickets available. [Chilliwack Progress]

🚨 Two masked suspects broke into a Brant Avenue home in Mission around 12:45 AM on November 12, bear-spraying a resident before fleeing with nothing taken. [Mission City Record]

💧 Harrison Hot Springs council approved first readings of bylaw amendments increasing sewer and water fees by eight percent annually in 2026 and 2027, raising average monthly costs to about $87. [Agassiz-Harrison Observer]

🔬 UFV Chilliwack is hosting a Science Cafe on November 26 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM featuring four women who work in extreme environments, including astronaut researchers, search and rescue volunteers, and emergency responders. [Hope Standard]

🔥 A Chilliwack family of seven was displaced after an early-morning fire on November 20 heavily damaged their home in the 45000 block of South Sumas Road, killing their pregnant kitten. [Fraser Valley Today]

💰 An Abbotsford business owner received a $1 million extortion demand after his business was shot without warning, marking a shift in tactics as shootings preceded threats rather than following them. [CBC News]

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In the Valley

Updated weekly: Your guide to Fraser Valley holiday events

Holiday magic is happening all across the Fraser Valley this season. From tree lighting ceremonies and festive markets to concerts, parades, and family-friendly celebrations, there's no shortage of ways to embrace the spirit of the season. We've just updated this list with even more events—check out the new additions and keep sending us your community happenings to include!

What’s coming up →

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🗓 Things to do

Espresso Martini Candle Making Workshop: A hands-on candle-making class on Tuesday, November 26 from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM at Everything Wine (125-1828 McCallum Road, Abbotsford) teaches participants to create an Espresso Martini candle in a reusable martini glass, with all materials, espresso martini samples, and snacks included, priced at $55 plus GST.

A Foggy Little Christmas - Fog Fest Weekend 3: Hope's Fog Fest concludes November 28-30 with festivities including Nutcracker Shadowshow at Blue Moose Café, Christmas Unscripted at Coquihalla Elementary at 2:00 PM Saturday, tree lighting and mini train rides downtown from 4:00-8:00 PM Saturday, and Holiday Cabaret with cookie decorating Sunday at 9:45 AM.

OPA! A Greek Feast! with Chef Deniz: A hands-on cooking class on Thursday, November 28 from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Well Seasoned features preparation of roasted garlic hummus with pita, grilled spot prawns with ouzo, wild BC salmon souvlaki with Greek salad and tzatziki, and walnut baklava.

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Catch up

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