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December 16, 2015 ❖ www.CloverdaleReporter.com ❖
Casino bets on a new brand By Jennifer Lang Months of speculation about a multi-million dollar renovation and re-branding come to an end tomorrow, when a Cloverdale landmark holds its grand re-opening as Elements Casino. The doors open at 8 p.m. Dec. 17 at the former Fraser Downs Racetrack and Casino. Great Canadian Gaming Corp. has spent a reported $11 million making over the facility – about what it spent transforming its Coquitlam casino into the Hard Rock Casino Vancouver, adding a range of new food and bev-
erage options, live entertainment spaces, table games and new slot machines, Live standardbred and simulcast horse racing will continue to be featured, maintaining a connection to the casino’s roots as a racetrack. The casino has gone on a hiring spree, increasing its workforce by 25 per cent, boosting the number of employees from about 290 to 380 in order to position itself as a full service entertainment destination in Canada’s fast-growing city, hiring new food and beverage and casino staff, many
of them from Surrey, general manager Michael Kim told the Reporter Monday during a preview tour for news media. “It’s something we’re pretty proud of,” said Kim, who also oversaw the Hard Rock Casino rebranding before landing in Cloverdale in January 2015 to do the same thing here. “We want to make sure we hire locally and support the community.” The casino and racetrack have remained open during renovations, meaning guests have seen some of See JUGGERNAUT / Page 8
School contract awarded under $38.7 million. Eight other companies also presented bids for the job, ranging from $38.9 million to $45.6 million. The new school will take pressure off Clayton Heights and Lord Tweedsmuir Secondary schools, both at over-capacity, serving hundreds more students than they were built for. Four years ago, Lord
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By Sheila Reynolds A construction company has been chosen to build a much-needed high school in one of the fastest-growing neighbourhoods of Surrey. DGS Construction Company Ltd. won the contract to build the new school in the Clayton area, near 72 Avenue and 184 Street. The company submitted the lowest qualified bid of just
Tweedsmuir (LT) was forced to implement a flex schedule, with different grades starting and finishing the school day at different times to accommodate the overflow of students. In addition, LT has 13 makeshift portable classrooms on site, while Clayton has 10. The new Clayton north See OVERCROWDED / Page
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BOAZ JOSEPH / BLACK PRESS
Santa Claus (Ken Wensink) holds 13-week old kittens Allie (left) and Chloe during a fundraiser for BC and Alberta Guide Dogs at the Scottsdale Veterinary Hospital on Dec. 13. The kittens are owned by North Delta’s Anita Buckoll.
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4 The Cloverdale Reporter Wednesday, December 16, 2015
FROM THE NORTH POLE TO...
Clover Square Village VISIT SANTA!
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NOON TO 4PM EVERY DAY December 5th to 21st
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Clover Care Medical Clinic 604-574-7883
Annik Optical 604-574-7775
Cloverdale Dental Centre 604-574-3522
Bell One Touch Wireless 778-574-4447
Cloverdale Physiotherapy and Sports Clinic 604-574-4342
Canadian H2O to Go 604-575-0426 Central Valley Chiropractic 604-575-7007 Chevron Station 604-574-0040 Cloverdale Blackbelt Academy 604-576-0320 Chop Shop Hair Salon 778-574-2624 Clover Care Dental Clinic 604-575-4747
FHA - Audiology Clinic 604-575-5100 FHA - Cloverdale Public Health 604-575-5100 First Canada-Langley Shuttle 604-574-9396
Coast Capital Savings 604-517-7000
Four Corners Fowarding Inc. 604-575-6273
Dairy Queen 604-576-4811
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Dollarama 604-574-2155 Edward Jones 604-575-0322 Essential Nails 604-575-4602 Express Employment Professionals 604-575-8181
ICBC Expressway 604-661-2255 Just Great Clothes 604-576-2030 KFC / Taco Bell 604-576-7450 LifeLabs 604-576-6111
OMCG Ltd, CMA’S Darrell Oschanney 604-372-4116 Petro Value Products 604-576-0004 Pizza Hut 604-574-6414 Praxair Medigas Sleep Centre Quality Wine Cellars 604-574-4407 Recreational Vehicle Dealers Assoc of BC 604-575-3868 Rusty’s Neighborhood Pub 604-574-5512 S.E. Parker & Associates LTD 604-417-7391
Salty’s Fish & Chips 604-575-2115 Sizzor’s ‘N Style Unisex Hair & Beauty Salon 604-372-2525 Shoppers Drug Mart 604-574-7436 Subway 604-576-5878 Tan de Soleil Sun Tan Studios 604-575-1456 The Co-operators 604-575-8711 UPS Store #382 604-575-5095
P R O U D LY M A N A G E D B Y
Look for Santa’s little white & red house in the parking lot. Bring your own camera and take your child’s picture. Donations to the Surrey Food Bank gratefully accepted.
17700 56 AVENUE
Wednesday, December 16, 2015 The Cloverdale Reporter 5
Retro Christmas bash Sample some apple cider and ginger spice cookies, and listen to some live, rocking Christmas tunes by Surrey-based singer-songwriter Reid Jamieson this Saturday at the Surrey Museum. Retro enthusiasts are invited to the ‘50s-themed showcase – a Very Vintage Christmas Party – a family-friendly drop in event from 1-4 p.m. Jamieson, a celebrated, velvety-throated singer who has been a regular on CBC radio’s Vinyl Cafe, has a love for ‘50s era musicians, Reid Jamieson making him a natural choice for a mid-century inspired Yuletide party. There will be plenty to do: have your photo taken with Santa, and make vintage ornaments and tinsel wreaths – just the touches to help transform your home into a fabulous ‘50s feel. There’s also an Elf-on-the-Shelf scavenger hunt through the museum galleries, plus a SMUglySweater selfie station where visitors can pose in a tacky Christmas sweater with-
in brief
– Cloverdale Reporter
FILE PHOTO
Seeking nominations
Tinsel trees give the Yuletide season a mid-century feel. This Saturday, the Surrey Museum hosts its annual Very Vintage Christmas Party.
Do you know people who have made significant contributions to their community? The upcoming BC Community Achievement Awards may be a way to recognize their efforts. The BC Achievement Foundation is
out actually having to buy one – and Tweet about it later using the #SMUglySweater hashtag or by visiting the museum’s Twitter page at @ASurreyMuseum. The Surrey Museum at 17710 56A Avenue is open Tuesday to Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. Admission is sponsored by the Friends of the Surrey Museum and Archives Society. Call 604-592-6956 or visit surrey.ca/heritage.
Smile of the week
– Cloverdale Reporter
Winter Ice Palace opens The Cloverdale Arena at 6090 176 Street will be transformed into a winter wonder-
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high school has been a long time coming, as the provincial government first committed to funding the project in 2013. The money didn’t come until August 2014, however, and the Ministry of Education only approved the project going to tender last month. Building is expected to begin in January, with hopes the school can open in spring 2018. Last month, in proposing boundary moves to alleviate crowding at some elementary schools, the district said all schools in the Clayton area are under “extreme enrolment pressures.”
– Black Press
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Once the walls have been painted, it’s time to paint the trim. Start by masking off any surfaces adjoining the trim with a quality masking tape, which is available in our painting dept. Use low adhesion masking tape on recently painted areas to keep from damaging the fresh paint. Be sure to use a quality paintbrush that’s the right width for the trim you’re painting. While you can use either a natural or synthetic bristle brush for oil-based paint, you should only use a synthetic bristle brush when painting with water-based latex paint.
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now accepting nominations for the awards, which aim to honour those who have made their community a better place, either through volunteers, or in the course of their work, in fields ranging from arts and culture, sports, multiculturalism, environment, healthcare, education, civic duty business and more. The nomination deadline is Jan. 15, 2016 and more information can be found at www. bcachievement.com Since the awards were established in 2003, more than 400 people have been recognized throughout the province.
land over winter break. Starting this Friday (Dec. 18) and running to Sunday, Jan. 3, the arena will be open daily for family skating sessions. Admission is $4.50, and skate and helmet rentals are additional. Hours vary, but opening night the rink will be open from 6:30-8 p.m. Call 604-502-6410 for more information or visit www.Surrey.ca/arenas.
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6 The Cloverdale Reporter Wednesday, December 16, 2015
Opinions & Letters
COMMUNITY
CALENDAR
facebook.com/cloverdalereporter
twitter.com/cloverdalenews
Published by Black Press Ltd. at 17586 56A Avenue, Surrey, B.C.
All non-profit organizations can email their special events to newsroom@cloverdalereporter.com EVENTS 18TH ANNUAL WINTER ICE PALACE The Cloverdale Arena, 6090 176 Street, will be transformed into the Winter Ice Palace again, over winter break. Come and join in the fun. This is a very popular event that the whole family can enjoy. Admission is $4:50, but skate and helmet rentals are additional. Open Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Call 604-502-6410. Opening Friday, Dec. 18 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., and running daily (hours vary) to Sunday, Jan. 3.
Voices of the season BOAZ JOSEPH BLACK PRESS
TREE CHIPPING AND BOTTLE DRIVE By donation at Cloverdale Athletic park Saturday, Jan. 2, 2016 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. to support the Surrey United Soccer Association. TREE CHIPPING AND BOTTLE DRIVE The 6th annual Adams Road Elementary tree chipping and bottle drive event is Saturday, Jan. 2, 2016, from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the school, 18228 68 Ave., Surrey. Get 2016 off to a fresh start by turning that tree into mulch, by donation, and cleaning out those stinky bottles and cans. Donate and get free Langley Rivermen tickets while supplies last or BOGO brunch vouchers for Moxies Langley. We also pick up: email adamsroadpac@hotmail.com before the day to request tree or bottle pickup. Provide your name, address and two-hour window. SURREY FIREFIGHTERS TREE CHIP Surrey Firefighters present a tree chip Saturday, Jan. 6, 2016 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in two locations: Surrey Fire Hall 8 (Cloverdale) at 1752 57 Ave., and at Newton Athletic Park, 7395 128 Street. All proceeds go to the Surrey Firefighters Charitable Foundation; 100 per cent of all money is used for programs within the City of Surrey. ANNOUNCEMENTS VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Cloverdale Better at Home is looking for Volunteers to take senior clients out grocery shopping once or twice a month. Mileage paid. For more information, info-referral@comeshare. ca or call 604-531-9400 x. 204. ARE YOU GAY, BI-SEXUAL OR JUST NOT SURE? HOMINUM Fraser Valley is an informal discussion and support group to help gay, bi-sexual and questioning men with the challenges of being married, separated or single. We meet on the last Friday of every month. Our next meeting is Friday, Dec. 18, 7:30 p.m. For information and meeting location, call Art 604-462-9813 or Don 604-329-9760. CLUBS/GROUPS CLOVERDALE LIONS CLUB The Cloverdale Lions Club is looking for new members. Meetings are the second Thursday of the month. Please volunteer your time to assist us in serving our community. Call Terry Riley: 604-576-9248 for more information. FOOD PROBLEM? Is food a problem for you? Do you eat when you’re not hungry? Do you go on eating binges? Is your weight affecting your life? Overeaters Anonymous offers help. No fees, no dues, no weigh-ins, no diets. We are a fellowship. We meet every Thursday from 7:30 to 9 p.m. in the Cloverdale United Church basement, 1757558A Ave., Cloverdale. Everyone welcome. TOPS TOPS – Take Off Pounds Sensibly – meets at 7 p.m. every Wednesday at the Cloverdale Library, 5642, 176A Street, Surrey, in the upstairs meeting room. For more information, phone LInda at 604-462-9326. PEACE ARCH WEAVERS & SPINNERS GUILD We meet Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., 17710 56A Ave., Surrey. Phone 604-5926950. Free tea and coffee. Teach, mentor and promote Fibre Arts knowledge. Visitors welcome.
Opus One Women’s Choir performs a Christmas program during the regular Sunday service of the South Fraser Unitarian Congregation at Crescent United Church on Dec. 6. The Opus One Women’s Choir rehearses in Langley.
Bennett’s legacy lingers
B
A number of politicians and community leaders – notably then-Vancouver mayor Mike Harcourt – said it would be a waste of funds and expressed doubt that many people would bother to come. However, the decision to build a rapid transit line in conjunction with it changed many people’s minds. Expo was a tremendous success from the time it was opened by Prince Charles and Princess Diana. It attracted visitors from all over the world, and almost immediately led to significant boosts in investment, housing starts and property values. It truly put B.C. on the world map. And it was a major factor in Surrey’s dramatic growth that continues to this day. Around the same time as the SkyTrain decision was made, the province also decided to build the Alex Fraser Bridge. This project hadn’t been as high on the wish list, but it changed traffic, growth and development patterns in the region. The original SkyTrain Expo line and the bridge opened in
ill Bennett’s time as premier of B.C. ended almost 30 years ago, in the summer of 1986. The era in which he governed is a distant memory to some. For others, it was long before their time. Bennett died Dec. 4 at the age of 83. He had been mostly out of the public spotlight since leaving the premier’s office. However, his 10½ years as premier led to B.C. truly entering the modern era, as B.C. turned into much more than a resource-based economy, and the province’s political apparatus also changed dramatically. These changes had a significant effect on Surrey, White Rock and Delta. Decisions made by his government still have an effect on this region. The biggest single change came as a result of two related decisions – the decision to host a world’s fair called Expo 86 on former rail-yard land in Vancouver, and the decision to build a rapid transit line called SkyTrain. Expo was controversial.
1986, the year Bennett stepped aside. His successor, former Surrey MLA Bill Vander Zalm, and local MLAs Rita Johnston and Bill Reid, ensured that SkyTrain was extended to Surrey, as had been originally promised. It arrived at Scott Road station in 1990, and came to Whalley in 1994. For the first time, Surrey had a decent transit system. Prior to SkyTrain, the few residents who used the transit system mainly used express buses into Vancouver from Guildford, Whalley, North Delta and South Surrey-White Rock. The Bennett government did a great deal more. The shift to get rid of locally elected hospital boards (and centralize the health system) had its start when the province replaced the elected Surrey Memorial Hospital board with a provincial administrator. The Bennett government also, as one of its first acts, reaffirmed the Agricultural Land Reserve which had been brought in by
the previous NDP government of Dave Barrett. There had been a furor over the ALR in the Barrett years, but the decision to keep it in place ensured that the best farm land in Surrey and Delta remained in cultivation. Social Credit was a true coalition under one party banner in his era, and this area elected mostly Socred MLAs. Vander Zalm, who had been mayor of Surrey, was a notable recruit when the party rebuilt to challenge the incumbent NDP government in 1975. He held a number of cabinet portfolios until 1983. In the 1983 election, Surrey proved a crucial battleground and the party used many techniques to identify and get its vote out. Johnston and Reid were elected in the two-member Surrey riding, and Bennett won his third term in office. His legacy to this province and this region is considerable.
Points of view
– Frank Bucholtz is former editor of the Langley Times
The Cloverdale Member CCNA
JENNIFER LANG
JIM MIHALY
Editor
Publisher
publisher@surreyleader.com
SHAULENE BURKETT
Assistant Sales Manager s.burket@surreyleader.com
editor@cloverdalereporter.com
CYNTHIA DUNSMORE
Sales Representative sales@cloverdalereporter.com
SHERRI HEMERY
Circulation Manager sherri@surreyleader.com
The Cloverdale Reporter, est. 1996, is a community newspaper published weekly and delivered to homes and businesses in Cloverdale and Clayton. Submissions are welcome. Send letters and news tips to editor@cloverdalereporter.com.
CONTACT US: NEWS: 604-575-2400 | ADVERTISING: 604-575-2423 CLASSIFIED: 604-575-5555 | CIRCULATION: 604-575-5344 PUBLISHER: 604-575-5347 CLOVERDALEREPORTER.COM The Cloverdale Reporter is published every Wednesday. Advertising deadlines are Thursdays at 5 p.m. OFFICE ADDRESS: 17586 56A Avenue, Surrey, B.C. V3S 1G3.
The Cloverdale Reporter is a member of the National Newsmedia Council, which is an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour. If you have concerns about editorial content, please contact: editor@ cloverdalereporter.com or 604-575-2400 or publisher@cloverdalereporter.com or 604-5755347. If talking with the editor or publisher does not resolve your complaint about coverage or story treatment, you may contact the the NNC to file a formal complaint. Visit the web site at mediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163 for additional information.
Wednesday, December 16, 2015 The Cloverdale Reporter 7
TransLink eyes HandyDart shakeup By Jeff Nagel TransLink will consider reforms to HandyDart service in response to recurring rider complaints and that could lead to a decision to replace the current U.S.-based contractor in 2017. That’s when TransLink’s contract with MVT Canadian Bus Ltd. expires but outgoing board chair Barry Forbes said talks can start next year, along with a review to determine how better to serve passengers with disabilities who can’t use the regular transit system. “We are concerned,” Forbes said after an open board meeting where TransLink directors heard several users complain the door-to-door custom transit service is inadequate and difficult to use. Forbes promised TransLink will reach out to users to “figure out how we can adjust the system to more adequately and accurately – and humanely – meet their needs.” Many activist users and unionized drivers have been openly at war with MVT for years and they repeated their calls for the private for-profit contractor to be aban-
doned in favour of a service run directly by TransLink or a non-profit. “We all know there will be an increased demand for HandyDart service in the future,” said Bob Chitrenky, president of the drivers’ union, arguing profits that now go to MVT’s U.S. parent should instead be kept here to build a more sustainable service. HandyDart’s budget would have increased had the transit sales tax referendum passed earlier this year, but it remains effectively frozen. Chitrenky warned that budget restraint measures making it harder to qualify for HandyDart or moving to longer pickup time windows “may get less people riding but it’s not the answer to service.” HandyDart users at the meeting carried placards with slogans like “people before profit” and “stop the abuse.” Long waits and lack of availability of HandyDart vans has been a steady complaint of riders, as well as inflexibility of dispatchers. “Accommodation is not in their dictionary,” said terminally
ill disabled user Bet Tuason. “To MVT, it’s a foreign language.” TransLink will consider the option of ending contracting out and making the service a direct TransLink function “as well as all
other options,” Forbes said. He indicated the aim will be not just to decide who should run the service, but how it might change. “Part of the review that will be underway
in 2016 is looking at the ways we might provide service in the future – are there other ways, better ways that aren’t presently available or that we’re not presently offering.” Forbes defended
some of the steps taken in recent years, saying the recent shift to use taxis for a portion of trips sharply cut the number of unfilled trip requests. Some advocates have supported the
supplemental use of taxis, but HandyDart users who spoke out last week said they are unacceptable and ill-suited to transport vulnerable clients.
– Black Press
Norman Witt, B.A., M.B.A.
7317288
Trish Fedewich, B.Comm
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8 The Cloverdale Reporter Wednesday, December 16, 2015
Casino a ‘giant juggernaut’ in local economy From page one
JENNIFER LANG PHOTO
A fresh look for the main floor, where there are now 150 slot machines and a lounge.
the changes themselves, such as the updated main entrance and atrium on the main floor, where there are 150 added slots and a new Molson Canadian lounge area that will sell food from one of the four kitchens at Elements and provide a small entertainment space for performers. To be unveiled is the Diamond Buffet, which will be open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, and Foodies, an eatery on the upper
casino floor offering casual fare. Kim said the buffet is designed to be multi-purpose, serving hungry visitors and casino-goers along with privately-booked parties for special events of up to 150 people. Upstairs, the Escape lounge is a similarly-multi-purpose venue that seats 300 and will feature live entertainment on the weekends such as cover bands and other regional talent. “We can have private functions, banquets and weddings here,” he said.
A HOLIDAY GIFT THAT WON’T GET RETURNED.
There are 68 new slot machines post-makeover, bringing the total at Elements to 537. New gaming options include a semi-private baccarat room, and more table games such as blackjack and roulette. Figuring out what amenities to include, what cosmetic changes to make, and whether to change the name was an exhaustive exercise that involved internal focus groups and a lot of soul-searching. Deciding what “elements” the rebranded casino should offer helped provide inspiration for the new name, said Kim. There will be tears on opening night – the chance to build something new has been a welcome opportunity for administration and staff alike, said Kim. Originally known as the Cloverdale Raceway, the racetrack has been a fixture of the local economy, employing hundreds and providing spinoff jobs such as feed sales, veterinary care, farrier services, and breeders. “They live here.
They’re huge supporters in the economy,” said Paul Orazietti, executive director of the Cloverdale BIA. It’s the first major overhaul since the raceway re-opened in 2004 after a $40 million redevelopment as Fraser Downs Racetrack and Casino. The racetrack has since contributed more than $30 million to the city in gaming revenues, Orazietti said. “It’s a giant juggernaut. It’s one of the biggest employers in Cloverdale,” he said. “The business community wants to support it.” Orazietti said local reaction to the upgrade has been positive, although it remains to be seen how the changes will impact racing. The provincial government allows the racing side of operations a proportionate share of slot machine revenue. “There’s a need from the government to have a more definitive goal in how it wants to support harness racing,” he said. “Their future is in the hands of the government.”
GIFT CARD
JENNIFER LANG PHOTO
A new name and a new logo are just two of the changes.
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Wednesday, December 16, 2015 The Cloverdale Reporter 9
The Freshest Holiday Treat
Couscous-stuffed Apples with Honey Syrup
Couscous Salad with Grapes, Nuts and Feta
Caramelized Mandarins with Cranberry Syrup
Persimmon Cookies
A WIDE VARIETY OF MANDARINS IS NOW AVAILABLE AT KIN’S!
Come to our stores for complimentary Christmas recipe cards to make your holiday meals even more exciting!
From December 22-24 enjoy A COMPLIMENTARY HOT DRINK from 11 am to 5 pm at all Kin’s Farm Market stores.
Prices effective: December 16-24, 2015 *While Quantities Last Sweet & Juicy
Korean Mandarins
$0.99/lb Grown in Korea
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Sweet Kale Salad Kit (12 oz)
$2.99
per bag
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Tomato on Vine
$1.29/lb Grown in Ontario
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Russet Potatoes
$0.39/lb Grown in Washington
Product from California
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Green Kale
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Bag Avocados (4 avocados per bag)
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Regular price $3.99 per bag Valid with any purchase and with coupon at all participating Kin's Farm Market stores. Offer only applies to the first item, price applies to any additional items.
Please check our website for full Christmas week hours. Wishing you all happy holidays!
Strawberry Hill Shopping Centre Beside Tim Hortons Surrey 604.507.9872
Valid December 16-24, 2015
Limit One Per Family - While Quantities Last - 5522
Guildford Town Centre Across from CIBC Surrey 604.583.6181
South Point Annex Near Save-on-Foods Surrey 604.538.6872
10 The Cloverdale Reporter Wednesday, December 16, 2015
Together we grow... Season’s Greetings
Produce Y RA P S AN E OC
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JENNIFER LANG PHOTO
Getting her holiday shopping done will be a snap for Susan Ballinger, second from left, the grand prize winner of nearly $1,400 in gift certificates in a draw for shoppers who turned out to Ladies’ Night Out on Dec. 3, an evening of fun and shopping in Cloverdale. The event was sponsored by the Cloverdale BIA and attracted hundreds of shoppers to 176 Street. Ballinger is pictured with Cloverdale BIA reps Paul Orazietti (executive director, left), treasurer Dean Moore and shopping ambassador Ann-Marie Arnold-Smith. CLOVERDALE TOASTMASTERS Toastmasters international is a non-profit organization that helps people develop public speaking, organizational and communication skills, and leadership training. Overcome your fears of public speaking. Learn how to communicate effectively. We are a fun and encouraging group that can help. Meetings are 7:159:15 p.m. every Wednesday at Clayton Heights Secondary, 188 St. and 70 Ave. For more info, visit cloverdale. toastmastersclubs.org.
SURREY HISTORICAL SOCIETY The Surrey Historical Society meets at 10 a.m. at the Surrey Archives on the second Saturday of most months. You are welcome to hear our speakers and share your knowledge. Membership is $10/year. For details, call John at 778-294-1515. SENIORS STAMP CLUB Seniors interested in stamp collecting are invited to join the Cloverdale Seniors’ Stamp Club. Meet second and fourth Monday of month at 1 p.m. Info. John at 604-5743182.
7325176
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Wednesday, December 16, 2015 The Cloverdale Reporter 11
Thousands warned of tax hikes An unusually high number of Metro Vancouver homeowners are being warned they will get a sharply higher property assessment next month that may trigger an unwelcome property tax increase. BC Assessment says it has sent out 37,000 early notification letters across B.C., with almost twothirds of them going to Metro Vancouver home owners. That’s significantly more than most years. “Early notification letters are mailed to property owners who can expect an increase of at least 15 per cent above the average increase in their local taxing jurisdiction,� said assessor Jason Grant. “We want to ensure impacted property owners are aware of the significant increases and we welcome them to contact us. if they have any questions
Alarmed yet? t 3FTJEFOUJBM BMBSN NPOJUPSJOH
trians and vehicles. Dela Cruz said an operating deficit between what LRT would generate in revenue and its costs is equivalent to 40 per cent of the cost of running buses south of the Fraser, raising concern LRT may force transit cuts. “We’re going to have to cannibalize the rest of the City of Surrey’s buses just to make financial room for it.� The regional mayors’ council supported Surrey’s choice of LRT when it crafted the transit expansion plan that went to referendum this year. TransLink officials said they’re working towards a deadline of next March to complete a business case for both the Surrey and Broadway line projects to maintain eligibility for federal P3 grant funding. That work includes updates to the capital costs, operating costs and revenue estimates so there can be confidence they’re accurate to within 15 per cent, said Fred Cumming, TransLink vice-president of engineering and infrastructure management. “March is a very aggressive date,� he said. “But when the funding is secured we’ll be ready to go.� – Black Press
or concerns.� Increases of 15 to 25 per cent will be typical for single-family detached houses in Vancouver, the North Shore, Burnaby, Tri Cities, New Westminster, Richmond and Surrey, Grant said. He said typical strata residential increases will be in the five to 10 per cent range. Examples of the sort of increases coming in the Surrey area include a 1981 detached house in South Surrey that will see its 2016 assessment climb 10 per cent to $790,000 from $716,000, as well as a 1983 house in Fleetwood that’s up 11 per cent from $514,000 to $573,000. The final assessments that go out in early January reflect the market value as of July 1. – Black Press
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tawa, opening the door to a new cost-sharing deal between area mayors and the province without another vote. Dela Cruz argues it’s time to switch the plan to one of the alternatives TransLink previously studied – extending SkyTrain along Fraser Highway to Langley and running bus rapid transit (BRT) on the King George and 104 corridors instead of light rail. The costs would be similar, but TransLink’s own study of the options indicates the SkyTrain/BRT system would be more heavily used, generating the “most quantifiable transportation benefits.� It would take 22 minutes to ride the Fraser Highway SkyTrain segment, compared to 29 minutes with light rail, which would also require a transfer to continue on SkyTrain. Surrey Mayor Linda Hepner argues light rail is essential to shape the future development of the city. But Dela Cruz argues that’s not a good enough reason to build an inferior system. “A slow street-level LRT with more stops and few time savings will not attract high ridership and will fall short in every aspect,� he predicted, adding it would also create “huge risks� from running trains at the same level as pedes-
7319146
By Jeff Nagel An advocate for SkyTrain has urged TransLink’s board to reject the City of Surrey’s choice of light trail trains over other rapid transit expansion alternatives. Daryl Dela Cruz told TransLink directors light rail (LRT) would bring almost no improvement in frequency over the express bus service that already exists between Guildford and Surrey Central station, a trip he tested recently. “It took me seven minutes – three minutes faster than what the LRT is supposed to take according to the City of Surrey’s website,� Dela Cruz told TransLink directors Dec. 9. “What’s the point?� he asked, adding LRT will mean the loss of traffic lanes on 104 Avenue, with more congestion, less transit ridership, and slower growth around stations. The $2-billion-plus plan for Surrey light rail lines – an ‘L’ line that runs on King George Boulevard and 104 Avenue plus a Fraser Highway line that runs from the SkyTrain terminus to Langley City – has been stuck since the defeat of the regional sales tax referendum last summer. But hopes have grown that more generous federal infrastructure grants could come from Ot-
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TransLink urged to ditch Surrey LRT plan
12 The Cloverdale Reporter Wednesday, December 16, 2015
Student creativity shines in windows
Pitch perfect Surrey’s Chanel Kwong has sung her way to a ‘best pronunciation’ win at a Mandarin singing contest – an accolade she earned despite not having studied the language all that long. The Kwantlen Polytechnic University year business student enrolled in her first Mandarin language lesson in September. She outsang 20 finalists before a panel of professors and musicians at the 2015 BC Chinese Bridge Mandarin Singing Contest for university students.
For third year, artists take their work to town
CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Lord Tweedsmuir art students Antonia Tarbujaru, Kennedy Hoven, and Keicia McArdle painted a scene of cats pulling a sleigh carrying a doll and trees in an empty storefront window at Clover Square Village.
– Cloverdale Reporter
C I TY O F S U R R E Y
ANN
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RECREATION
PASS
By Jennifer Lang Students from Lord Tweedsmuir Secondary volunteered their time and talent two weekends ago to paint Christmas scenes on storefront windows in downtown Cloverdale, helping brighten up the season for retailers. This is the third year in a row the students have decorated windows in the community to help spread holiday cheer, says art instructor Janine Baker. The project was first attempted three years ago in Whalley, and has returned to Cloverdale for the past two years, in partnership with the Cloverdale Business Improvement Association. The students designed their own templates at school, and transfer them onto the fronts of windows, which were then painted from the inside. The painting work party was Dec. 5, when student artists headed to the shared offices of the Cloverdale
BIA and Cloverdale Chamber of Commerce at 5700 176 Street, and to the empty storefront windows of the former Rogers Video store in Clover Square Village.
The contributing artists: Megan Benoit and Nicole Greenbaum painted a Snoopy Christmas at the Cloverdale BIA office, while the team at Clover Square Village worked on a number of projects: Tayler Sherstone painted the Lady and the Tramp Tree and Mickey and Minnie Mouse; Antonia Tarbujaru, Kennedy Hoven, and Keicia McArdle painted a scene of cats pulling a sleigh filled with a doll on sleigh and trees; Hawon Kim and Emilee Guildfoyle painted a white snowy scene; Linghyan Zheng and Xin Jin created the reindeer scene; Jerry Tropeo and Trishia Shae did the Minions; Elyse Dyck painted a bird feeder and cat, and finally, Baker painted the Grinch and Donald Duck.
Treat yourself to a gym — we’ll throw the pool and ice rink in for free! Purchase a 1-year City of Surrey Recreation Pass offering unlimited access to our weight rooms, drop-in gyms and fitness classes, and we’ll throw in unlimited public swimming and skating! Feel good inside and out with the best deal in town. Valid at over 25 facilities across the city! Buy select passes between December 1 and January 31 and receive a free month and cardholder, and be entered to win a Fitbit! CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Taylor Sherstone painted the Disney-inspired Minnie and MIckey Mouse figures and a scene from the animated classic, Lady and the Tramp. Average Monthly Cost of 1-Year Recreation Pass
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Wednesday, December 16, 2015 The Cloverdale Reporter 13
Versatiles say farewell to a true entertainer By Jennifer Lang The Versatiles, Cloverdale’s troupe of golden aged performers, are mourning the loss of one of their most senior members. Doug Armstrong, who passed away peacefully at Peace Arch Hospital on Nov. 16 at the age of 94, was with the Versatiles for 12 years. “He was our friend and confidante,” says founder and artistic director. “He never let anyone get away with being afraid, and he was smart, he knew the answer to too many ques-
CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Few could match Doug Armstrong’s joy of entertaining others, recalls Susie Francis Hall.
HOLIDAY TRAIN The Christmas Train at Bear Creek Park runs Dec. 4 to Jan. 4, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (that’s when the last train leaves the station). From Dec. 4 to Dec. 24, meet Santa and bring your camera! Visit with Santa, receive a candy cane, take part in children’s activities on the planform, and take a ride through the Christmas Forest. The train leaves the station at 15 minutes to the hour and 15 minutes after the hour. Tickets $8.50 plus tax for adults and children.
The train is closed on Christmas Day. Located at 13750 88 Avenue. Visit bctrains.com for more information, or call 604-501-1232. DISCOVERY SATURDAY: VERY VINTAGE CHRISTMAS It won’t be a blue Christmas at this swinging retro-style event! Bing and Elvis croon Christmas favourites while you play holiday games, make vintage decorations and visit with Santa Claus. At the Surrey Museum, Saturday, December 19, 1:00pm-4:00pm, all
tions. When he gave a hug, you knew you had been hugged by an expert,” says Francis, who says few could match Armstrong’s joy of entertaining others. He loved to make people laugh, and could play the piano, sitting down to play old singalong songs. “Doug had a kind heart and always told you the truth, even when it hurt,” she said. “The result of this led to a trust and love that the Versatile entertainers will surely miss in the days, months and years to come. He will always be in our hearts.”
ages, free. Christmas Mini Camps at Surrey Museum ANTARCTIC EXPLORERS Encounter Antarctic adventures from the warmth of the Museum as you try sailor’s bread, plot a course through a blizzard and navigate a ship through a maze of icebergs. Must pre-register at 604-592-6956. Saturday, December 19. 10:00am-2:00pm, 1 session $30 (6-9yrs)
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The
Leader
the Federal Reserve hikes interest rates. What’s your position on Canada’s housing market now and into 2016? The Bank of Canada cut interest rates twice in 2015, which drove down borrowing costs and in turn helped to boost housing activity in many markets. Housing has been strongest in Vancouver and Toronto, but certainly not in the rest of the country. We’ve seen a significant slowdown in Alberta, Saskatchewan and the Atlantic provinces as a result of the steep drop in oil prices since mid-2014. I expect housing activity will slow a bit in Vancouver and Toronto in 2016. It will still be strong, but just not as strong as it was in 2015 in B.C. and Ontario.
BC & Ontario poised for Canada’s strongest economic growth in 2016 Lower oil prices, alongside a continued slump in mining and metals, has weighted on growth. Oil-dependent provinces such as Alberta, Saskatchewan and Newfoundland and Labrador have seen their economies hardest hit. That includes a drop in housing activity. Meantime, the more diversified economies of Ontario and B.C. are picking up, and housing sales and prices continue to climb rapidly in Toronto and Vancouver. Will this mixed economic and housing picture continue in the months ahead? Dr. Sherry Cooper, chief economist with Dominion Lending Centres, offers her outlook on what Canadians can expect in 2016:
Dr. Sherry Cooper Chief Economist for Dominion Lending Centres
How would you characterize Canada’s economy in 2015?
It has been a very tough year, particularly given the huge decline in commodity prices. Alberta’s economy slipped into a recession, which has had a big impact on Canada’s overall economy, especially given the province had the country’s strongest economy for many years. Overall in Canada, we saw a contraction of economic growth in the first half of 2015. Since then, we’ve seen a modest rebound. I forecast growth to be about 1.2 per cent in 2015.
What is your forecast for Canada’s economy in 2016? We are seeing a continued pickup in some provinces. The growth will likely be strongest in B.C., followed by Ontario. I think overall growth for
Canada in 2016 will be around 2.2 per cent. That’s not what one would call a rapid expansion. I don’t believe the full effect of lower oil prices has come through in our economy. Some of the economic growth will be driven by increases in government spending, assuming the new Liberal government keeps its promise to add stimulus, and lower taxes for the middle class. The one thing that concerns me is the government’s proposed tax increase for high-income earners, which I believe will be counterproductive. Many Canadians have been watching the Canadian dollar lose strength this year. Where do you see it headed in 2016? It’s not a great story for the Canadian currency. I think we’ll see more downward pressure on the Canadian dollar next year, as a result of a rising American dollar as its economy gains steam and
Where do you see mortgage prices heading? Mortgage rates in Canada are at generational lows. I believe they have now bottomed. The days of falling mortgage rates are over. Instead, I think we’ll see a gradual increase in rates, which will lead to a gradual slowdown in housing activity in the coming months, as affordability decreases. Mortgage rates could rise by about a half a percentage point over the next year, to about 3.25 per cent for the average five-year fixed rate term. It’s not a huge increase, but given how low rates are, it’s a meaningful percentage gain.
1-888-806-8080 www.dominionlending.ca Facebook “f ” Logo
@DLCCanadaInc
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/DominionLendingCentresCanada
14 The Cloverdale Reporter Wednesday, December 16, 2015
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From the homestead to the shelf – at last Surrey’s Doreen Johnson publishes book it took her decades to write By Boaz Joseph Doreen Johnson never stepped into a library until she was 13. The youngster, born in rural Saskatchewan, was enamoured with books – not just reading, but the idea that you could have a book on the shelf with your name on it. Until she stepped into that library in Vancouver, after she moved to B.C. at the age off 11, she had never even heard the word “author.” Now 76, the Fleetwood resident is one herself – after being told by her high school teacher that she would never write a book. Johnson has published a historical fiction based on her mother Elsie Frey’s experiences in rural Saskatchewan in the 1930s and ’40s. “Momma, Momma, the Preachers’ Comin” isn’t Little House on the Prairie. It tells of the hardship, destitution, hunger and cold – conditions that Johnson experienced herself in that house, with her brother Edwin (a year older) and father Raphael. While Elsie had a Grade 4 education, Raphael never learned to read, and the family struggled on their homestead in Carrot River, a village at the end of a railway line about 250 kilometres northeast of Saskatoon. They harvested what they could, and had four cows, two horses and a handful of pigs and chickens, allowing them to scrape by. Doreen says she and her brother were the poorest kids at school. Their father told them each year that the Easter Bunny wasn’t coming, while they saw their classmates eating chocolates. The kids had three outfits, two for regular use, and a Sunday outfit. Johnson learned about being poor when on some Sundays, the local Lutheran minister would come to their house, since the nearest church was too far way. He came with his family, which included two well-dressed young daughters in “city clothes” who snubbed Doreen and her brother. The kids usually stayed outside while the adults spoke, since the family had only four chairs. Johnson didn’t particularly like the preacher’s family, and her mother was often upset because of the way she was dressed and had to give away food they couldn’t afford. “(The preacher) wanted to make sure we were alive, but he sure didn’t bring us anything,” Doreen recalls. “They had fancy clothes, but you had manners,” Raphael would say to his kids afterwards.
BOAZ JOSEPH / BLACK PRESS
Doreen Johnson, 76, authored a story based on her mother’s difficult experiences as a homesteader in the Saskatchewan wilderness in ‘Momma, Momma the Preachers’ Comin.’
Walking a mile to school (until the later years, when their school was closed and the distance grew to 3.5 miles of walking or hitching rides), they faced deep snow and wind, and winter temperatures of minus 30 or 35. The family’s long-distance transportation was either a wagon or sled. While their father wasn’t big on pushing them to go to school when the weather was bad, their mother said they should go “as long as we could see where we were going,” recalls Johnson. Her mother, respecting the idea of learning and reading, was enthusiastic when Johnson returned with homework and reading materials, so she could do some reading herself. During warm weather, Johnson would sit outside the house for hours watching butterflies and making up stories in her head. Years later, in high school in Vancouver, she would continue to dream of writing, but after Grade 11, she got a job at a bank that paid $125 per month. Eventually, she put her des-
titute past behind her, got married in 1958 to her husband Elmer and moved to Newton, where with hammer and nails, they built a house together. Elmer died in 2000, and Johnson remarried in 2005. Her husband Bob supported her’s efforts to write an autobiography, and then the idea of writing a novel about her mother’s life. In “Momma, Momma, the Preachers’ Comin,” names have been changed – including Carrot River – but the history remains. For the cover, Johnson used the only picture she had of the front of the little house she grew up in. It was taken in 1945 by her brother, then eight years old, with the family’s box camera. Johnson believes her mother would have liked the cover of the book, with her on it, but she wasn’t happy at the time the photo was taken. “Mother just about skinned us alive.” Doreen Johnson’s novel is available at http://amzn.to/1T4vdvA
– Black Press
Wednesday, December 16, 2015 The Cloverdale Reporter 15
A holiday glow
BOAZ JOSEPH / BLACK PRESS
Port Kells’ Leanne Page plays Christmas songs on her harp during the Christmas Open House at Historic Stewart Farm on Dec. 12. Page was joined by her 17-year-old son Connor on guitar and flute.
MP speaks up Cloverdale-Langley City’s new MP spoke in the House of Commons for the first time Friday, thanking residents and his family for their support as he made a short statement. John Aldag – the first-ever MP to represent the new riding – told members of the House that the riding is in the traditional territory of the Coast Salish people. A 32-year federal employee with Parks
News
in brief
A division of
Canada, Aldag said his new position is a continuation of a career in public service. He said the top concerns of constituents are the high costs of living and stagnant earnings, transit, and poverty, homelessness and addiction. “I’m excited to see this government’s plan to create real change addresses these issues,” he said. “I look forward to addressing the concerns of my riding in this house and working with all members to improve our communities and our country.” – Cloverdale Reporter
#UsedHelps
16 The Cloverdale Reporter Wednesday, December 16, 2015
B.C. aims for $15B in farm product revenues
CLOVERDALE’S Church Directory
Hope Community Church “a place to belong believe and become” Sunday 10am
Rediscover God & Church Pastor Sid VanderWoud www.hopecommunity.ca 19233 60 Ave
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Responsibility and respect of others and their religious beliefs are also part of freedom. Horst Koehler
Precious Blood Parish
17475 59 Avenue Surrey, BC V3S 1P3 604-574-4363 pbparish@telus.net Pastor: Father Anthony Ho
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By Tom Fletcher the Agricultural Land Reserve into two zones, with The B.C. Liberal government and opposition more non-farm uses allowed in the Interior zone. MLAs both want greater success for the province’s They renewed their call for the government to refarmers, but they don’t see eye to eye on turn to one zone and hire more comhow to achieve it. pliance staff to make sure farmland isn’t Agriculture Minister Norm Letnick being inappropriately used. released the government’s latest straLetnick said it’s too early to tell what tegic growth plan Wednesday, raising effect the two-zone ALR system is havthe target for 2017 value from $14 biling on farmland, and he will report in lion to $15 billion. Total revenues from the spring on the results of the new sysfarm and food products reached $12.3 tem. billion last year, a record. Despite the B.C. salmon farm indusThe plan suggests that as climate try being targeted for years by environchange creates warmer conditions, mental campaigns against it, B.C.’s top B.C. may benefit even as tropical food export food product is cultured Altlanproduction declines. The province also tic salmon, followed by “food preparaexpects new trade deals with Korea and tions for manufacturing,” blueberries, the European Union, and the pending baked goods and crab. Norm Letnick Trans-Pacific Partnership, to increase Farmed salmon is also the third most farm and food product sales. valuable product in total B.C. sales, after dairy and Letnick said one strategy the government is pur- poultry products. Farmed salmon sales were $504 suing to increase the amount of productive farm- million, compared to $554 million for dairy and land in B.C. is to improve access to irrigation. ahead of greenhouse and field vegetables, which An opposition agriculture committee chaired by had revenue of $449 million in the province’s latest NDP critic Lana Popham and independent Delta figures. South MLA Vicki Huntingon released its own reThe B.C. government’s plan also includes “support Wednesday after a province-wide tour to con- porting international media missions to increase sult farmers. awareness of the B.C. aquaculture industry and Their report says the high cost of farmland is a increase demand for B.C. seafood products to key major deterrent for new farmers to enter the indus- markets.” try. It calls for the establishment of a provincial trust The province announced four new net-pen salmto buy and preserve farmland for new B.C. farmers, on aquaculture tenures this past July, after federal as well as new rules to restrict sale of farmland to permits were issued, then announced no more tenforeign buyers. ures will be granted until a review of application Popham and Huntington said they heard crit- and approval procedures is completed. icism from farmers about the decision to divide – Black Press
Year of Sharing ANNOUNCING G&F FINANCIAL GROUP’S
W are celebrating We l b ti our 75th anniversary i with ith a $1 $1,000,000 000 000 d donation ti tto the G&F Financial Group Foundation. Funds from the Foundation support local initiatives and non-profit organizations empowering our communities. This launches our ‘Year of Sharing’ – look for more news and events as we honour our rich past and look forward to a bright future together!
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Wednesday, December 16, 2015 The Cloverdale Reporter 17
Giants face rival Royals for four in a row By Rick Kupchuk
The Vancouver Giants are assured of at least a split of their four-game series with the Victoria Royals. A quirk in the Western Hockey League schedule has the two B.C. Division rivals facing off against each other four times in six days, and the Giants have won two of the first three. Vancouver won 4-1 Friday night at the Pacific Coliseum, then traveled to Vancouver Island where they lost 6-1 Saturday night but triumphed 4-2 Sunday afternoon. The Giants, an even 5-5-0-0 (win-loss-overtime loss-shootout loss) in their past 10 games, have moved to within six points of a playoff position in the Western Conference. At 10-19-2-2, they trail the 15-15-0-0 Portland Winterhawks of the U.S. Division in the race for
Morrissey in goal. Morrisey, acquired from the Saskatoon Blades last week in exchange for a seventh round pick in the 2017 Bantam Draft, stopped 10 of 13 shots in the final period. Sunday afternoon, the Giants got the jump on Victoria early, scoring three times in the first period. Baer started
JOHN HOWE PHOTO
Vancouver Giants have now won five of their last eight games.
eighth place. The Giants dominated Victoria to start the series Friday night, outshooting their guests 35-27. Ty Ronning put the home side up 1-0 early in the second period, but the teams went to the dressing rooms tied 1-1 after 40 minutes. Two powerplay goals in the third peri-
od lifted Vancouver to the win. Carter Popoff netted the winner with the man advantage with 13 minutes remaining. Alec Baer added a pair in the final five minutes, the second with the Royals shorthanded. Ryan Kubic was the Vancouver netminder, stopping 26 of 27 shots. The Royals were the
dominant team Saturday night in the provincial capital, leading 1-0 and 3-1 at the period breaks. Chase Lang scored the lone Giants goal with four seconds remaining in the second period. Kubic stopped 16 of 19 shots over the first two periods before he was replaced by Jake
Locals eyed by Softball Canada for national team A half-dozen local athletes will be spending a week in Tucson, Arizona next month at the 2016 Women’s National Softball Team Selection Camp. Softball Canada named 24 players to attend to camp Jan. 2-8, and on the list are Sara Groenewegen, Holly Speers and Kyla Benz of Surrey, North Delta’s Jen Yee, and Jocelyn Cater and Kelsey Jenkins of Delta. The national team will be selected following the camp. Team Canada will begin its summer season with a training camp June 11-17 in California, then
compete at the Japan Series in Tokyo, Japan June 18-28 and the US World Cup of Softball in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma July 3-10. The national team will be in Surrey July 15-24 for the Women’s World Championships July 15-24. Groenewegen, Yee and Cater were members of the Canadian team which won a gold medal at the Pan-Am Games in Toronto last summer. Groenewegen was the pitcher in Canada’s 4-2 win, while Yee played second base. – Rick Kupchuk, Black Press
things off just 35 seconds into the game, then made it 2-0 five minutes later. Ben Thomas upped the difference to three goals before the first intermission. The Royals got a pair of powerplay goals over the final 40 minutes, but Jack Flaman scored an insurance goal with five minutes left in reg-
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