GIVEAWAYS AND DOOR PRIZES! Youwon’twant to missit!
CarneyinDeltabutmoneyfortunnelabridgetoofar
Liberalelection campaign makes morning stop,no promiseson crossing
PHILMELNYCHUK
pmelnychuk@delta-optimist.com
TheFraserRiver was just afewmetres away andthe George Massey Tunnelafewminutes’ drivebuttherewereno definite announcements offederalmoneyforthe new tunnelwhen Liberal leader Mark Carney made acampaignstop on RiverRoad,in Delta, Tuesday,followinga meetingCarney hadwith B.C. Premier David Eby on Monday.
Theprovince wants thefederal government to coveragoodportion ofthe$4.1-billioncost
LiberalleaderMark CarneyisintroducedbyDelta Liberal candidateJill McKnightduringa campaignstopin DeltaTuesday atIntelligentCityonRiver Road.FormerVancouvermayorGregor Robertson,secondfromleft, is also runningin aVancouver riding.
ofthenewFraser River Tunnel, settobebuiltby 2030.
Carneythough referred tothe Liberals’proposed $5-billionplanfor anew tradediversificationcor-
ridorfundwhichwill speed up “nation-building” projects at ports, railways, airportsand highways.
“I fully understand thepressing need for
progresshere. Youcan just seeitthis morning drivinghere…sowe’re puttinginplacethe tools. Iexpecttohavevery strong andproductive cooperation with David
Eby’sgovernment onthis …“
Carneywas at Intelligent CityonRiver Roadexplainingthe Liberalhousing plan.
Thecompany uses roboticsandmasstimber to make prefabricated homes.
“PresidentTrump isin theprocessoftryingto fundamentallyrestructure the U.S. economy, andin theprocess, he is rupturingtheglobal economy,”Carney said.
Theimmediateimpact is sharpfalls in financial markets,puttingretirementsavings at risk,as well as puttinginjeopardy jobs from the auto industryinOntario,to forestry in B.C.,Carney said.
TheU.S.isalsoagain targetingthe Canadian softwood industryby morethandoubling duties,headded.
ALiberal partynews
releasesaidthat Build Canada Homes will allot $25 billion in financing forprefabrication home builderstoallowthemto scaleupproduction.
Canadian technologies,aswellassoftwood lumber andmasstimber, will be prioritized under theplan,saidthe release.
Delta Liberalcandidate Jill McKnight said that whileshe’s been campaigning, she has heardthatit’stimefora bold,innovativehousing plan to create affordable homes.
Another featureofthe plan is the reintroduction of amajortax incentivetoencouragerental housingconstruction,as occurred in the 1970s, knownasthe multiple urbanresidential buildingprogram.
If elected,the Liberals have said theywill table abill to remove federal trade barriersbyJuly1.
Daniel Boisvertsays project has lots of positives but tower heights are just too high
IAN JACQUES ijacques@delta-optimist.com
A Deltacouncilloris asking CenturyGroup to go back to thedrawing board withproposal to re-developthe Town Centre Mallin Tsawwassen.
In advanceofacommunityengagement report,likely at the April 14councilmeeting, Coun. Dan Boisvert is asking forthe current re-development applicationthat is beforethe cityfor review, to be withdrawn.
“Simply put, I have graveconcerns about thisprojectinits current form, andIdonot believe itisin ourcommunity’s best interests forthis application to proceed furtherinthe approvalprocess,” said
Boisvert ina statement tothe Optimist “Century Groupneeds to takethisfeedback seriously and withdraw theproposal.
“Itis my hopethat they willcome back with amodifiedplanthat significantly reducesthe heightsofthefour towers. I have been reading andlistening withgreat care and attention to the feedback sent infrom residents,andIdeeply appreciatethe passion andconcern residents have shown.
“I believe that the Tsawwassen Town Centre Malldoesneed to be redeveloped to make betteruseofthe landfor much-needed housing and to improve oursmall business community withadded shopsand services.”
Boisvert says it’s criticalthat any application forthefutureofthe site be givenathoughtful dueprocess to ensure the best outcomefor
thecommunity. “Our staff,undercouncil’s direction, have done an excellent jobinproviding multipleopportunities and platformsfor
“...Ihave grave concerns about this projectin itscurrent form...“
DAN BOISVERT
residents to voicetheir opinions,andI want to commend themfor theirefforts.Ialso wish to thank every resident who has submittedtheir thoughtsand opinions,” he said.
“Thisprojectdoes present several positive features,including a communityplaza, a new andmodernlibrary, a revamped Thrifty Foods, rentalhousing, and over 75units of below-market
housing. I acknowledge these benefitsandtheir potential to enhance our community.
“Nonetheless, I can seetheconcernsand frustrationsthat many residentsarefeeling, particularly regarding theproposed heights ofthe towers. While my roleas yourcouncilloralwayscompelsme to keepanopenmind, itis my beliefthat the proposed heightsofthe towers are just toohigh.”
Alsoon Monday, Mayor George Harvie plans to bring forward a noticeofmotion seekinga staff reviewofthe Winskill Aquatic Centre re-developmentproject to seewhetheritis viable to includeanew library withinthe scope oftheaquaticcentre project.
OPTIMIST FILE PHOTO
Coun. Dan Boisvert.
WillCanadadisappear?
U.S. President Trump wants to annexus
PHILMELNYCHUK
pmelnychuk@delta-optimist.com
If Canada is ever absorbed into the United States, more likelyit would resultfrom
gradual steps, rather thanthrough an abrupt annexationinwhich the country becomesthe51st state.
“Obviously,Idon’t thinkthere would be any militaryinvasion, so anythingthat would happen, would have to happen voluntarily,” SFU political scienceprofessorAndy Hira, toldthe Optimist.
Thepreviously unspoken topicisnow regularly raised by U.S. President DonaldTrump.
Since being sworn inaspresident, Trump hasoften said Canada should be the 51st state and referred to theformerprime ministeras “GovernorTrudeau.”
Hira says the chances of Canada joiningthe U.S. “are close to zero.
“Still, it’s worth itfor Canadians to think through theissue.”
“That mightbe something that Trump might push for,”
Onetheory about countriesintegratingor merging says that deeper economicties canlead to greatercooperation, as happened withthe European Union, says Hira.
He noted that before Trump tookoffice,there wasdiscussion about havingcommontariffs.
Following a joint approach on tariffs,there could be acommon customsand border patrol.
“Thatmight be somethingthat Trump might pushfor,” Hira said.
you start to even think about having some kind of politicalorganization.” And even then,it would make more sense to have some kindoffederal state, he added.
“Insteadoflooking at it asblackand white, I would saythat amore realisticpicture ofintegration,ifthat’s what Canadians wanted, would be to move towardsthese stages, ratherthan just saying we’re just going to join asthe51st state. That’s much more realistic politicallyas well,” Hira said.
“I think that’s a much more realistic outcome, andit wouldprobably require theseadditionalinterim stagesof economic coordination.”
Notfollowing a gradual process couldlead to chaos because Canada has its own banking system, health care and border patrol.
Hira saidhe’s not sure what would happen to socialprograms such as health care, pointing out that U.S. statesalso run their ownhealth-care systems.
“I don’tknowthat it wouldnecessarily force provincial governments to giveuptheir autonomy. They would just have to coordinateand thenthe governmentin Ottawa wouldalmost be likea governorandthey wouldalsothen send senatorsand representatives to the House.”
CONTINUED: See P.5
SFU PROFANDY HIRA
UniversityprofsskepticalaboutU.S.takeover
CONTINUED P4
That’s whythe EU modelprobably makes more sense, headded.
He pointed outthat inmostofthe western states, referenda tookplace,followed by required votesof support in Congress, beforethe states joinedtheunion.
“Bothofthosethings would(have to) happen for Canada to be accepted asa state…which iswhyit’s anon-starter right, because at least rightnow,Idon’tthink there’sany wayit would pass,” said Hira.
Canada hasdepended onthe U.S. economyfor yearswhilethe Canadian government hasdone nothing aboutthat, Hira said.
He saidthe mainthing isfor Canadiansnot to be paranoid aboutthe U.S. and to seethecrisisas anopportunity to rethink their economy.
University ofAlberta political scienceprofessorGreg Anderson sharesthe skepticism and says Trump hasno realinterest in occupying Greenland, Panama or Canada.
Canada has beenshippingits raw resources, dutyfree, to the U.S. for years.
Americanfirmsalready have privilegedaccess to Canada,headded.
“I guess I’mnot really sure what moreofacolonial relationship would actuallylooklike,”he said.
Trump’s behaviour may be brusque, buthe oftenistrying to make a pointorachieve something, Andersonadded.
Whenhetalks about Canada rippingoffthe
U.S.,“thereisadegree to which Canada has benefited fordecadesfrom the security umbrella, forexample. Canada hasa reallydifficulttime assertingits sovereignty inthefarnorth.”
That’s long been a complaintofprevious Americanpresidents, headded.And people maynotlikeTrump’s approach buthe’s forced Europe to get serious aboutdefence spending.
“Andthiscountry has yet to dothat,”Anderson said.
“We maynotlikehis tactics butthereis something to it.”
Asforhis repeated comments about absorbing Canada,Trump knowsthat Canada is sensitive aboutitsindependence butAnderson says Trumpisn’t serious.
“He’s very perceptive whenitcomes to this crap andheexploitsit.
“I thinkthe marketsare sendingTrump amessage that you can’tdo this,indefinitely.And I’m not sure his voters signed upforthis.”
Annexationismore thandoubtful, says University of theFraser Valleyassociate political scienceprofessor Hamish Telford.
“It’snot happening. Endof story,”he said.
“Annexation happens by force, by definition, andifhe’s not going to use troops,itain’t happening.”
And Canada’s not joining voluntarily so it’s not happening, headded.
“People have to know, to understandthe seriousnessofthethreat. If he really wants to annex us,that meansusingthe military.”
But Telford saidTrump won’tusethemilitary, whileTrump has saidhe
woulduse economicforce to create a51st state.
Do Americans want to loselivestrying to annex Canada? Telfordasked.
Ifthe U.S. invaded by force,whichitcoulddo quickly,itmeans having to govern40millionunhappy people,headded.
“Theycouldn’t govern us easily for very long.”
“Massive civil resistance anddisobedience. The cost to the U.S. of occupying Canada would be prohibitive.”
Telford saidthere’s lots to worry about butannexationisn’toneofthemand addedthat Trump can inflicta lot of economic damage on Canada but that Canadianscouldtake
more painthanAmericans because, “This would be survivalforus.”
He addedthat one pointinthedebate in the 1980s aboutthefirst free trade agreement wasthat Canada would become toodependentonthe U.S. “And guesswhat? We did.”
Christian Leuprecht, professor at Royal Military
College of Canada,in Kingston, Ont., said Canada would have no hopeinanymilitaryconfrontation.
“Shouldthe U.S. invade, we have nooption but to capitulate. We donot even have a plan to defend thecountry,letalonethe meansorthe will,”he said by email.
PHILMELNYCHUK
pmelnychuk@delta-optimist.com
Fromafireina North Delta suburb, to boats ablaze onFriday and Saturday, Deltafirefighters have been busy.
Following an early Thursday housefireon 84A Avenueand115th Street,now beinginvestigated asanarson, Delta firefighters onFriday rushed over to Annacis Island at about8 p.m. to extinguishafireonan old boat in the sloughoff theAnnacis Channel.
Heavysmoke was seen for kilometresandfirefighters had to access the fireviaanearby business.
Delta Fire and Emergency Services Deputy Chief Mike Donoghue saidprobably someone waslivingon
CUSTOMBLINDS
On Saturday, April 5, just after8 p.m.,firefighters were calledtothe 4300-blockof River Road West, fightingamore-intensefireinvolving twohouse boats.
the boat, but no one was around at the time, “so we don’tknowhowit started.”
Delta police were also on scene.
Thefollowing night, on Saturday, April5, just
CONTINUED:see Page7
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after8 p.m.,firefighters were back onthe water, inthe4300-block of River Road West,fighting a more-intensefireinvolving twohouse boats. Bothhouse boats were fully ablaze when firefighters arrived, but
everyone got out safely.
“Thecrewsdid a good job. Whenthey gotthere, fully involved. “They stopped itfrom spreading…,” said Donoghue.
“So, it wasa busy weekendfor Deltafire, that’s for sure,” he said. Sixfiretrucks and24
firefighters responded butthe two-house boats were destroyed, said Donoghue.
“Everyone got out, no injuries. Fire isunder investigation,”headded.
The cause hasn’t been identified butthefireis notconsidered suspicious,he said.
SPECIALPUBLICBOARD MEETING: BUDGET INPUT
Tuesday, April22,2025 at 7:30p.m. School BoardOffice 4585 HarvestDrive,Delta
This is an opportunityfor thepublictoprovide inputonthe 2025/2026 DeltaSchoolDistrict draftbudget. Budget recommendationswill be released on Thursday, April17,2025 andwill beposted totheschool district websiteatwww.deltasd.bc.ca.
Thepublic will be able to providefeedback on thedraft budget in the following ways:
•Speak at theSpecial Public BoardMeetingonTuesday,April 22. To sign up to speak, please emailKrystel at kaquino@deltaschools.ca.
•Sendanemail to budget@deltaschools.ca before Monday,April 21.
• Complete ashort survey that will be availableonthe district websitefromApril 17 until April21.
The Delta Optimist isamember oftheNationalNewsmedia Council,whichis an independent organization established to deal withacceptablejournalistic practices andethicalbehaviour.If youhave concernsabouteditorial content,please contacttheeditor at:ijacques@delta-optimist.com or call 604-998-3616.If youarenot satisfiedwiththe responseand wish to filea formal complaint visitthe websiteatmediacouncil. ca or call toll-free1-844-877-1163 for additionalinformation.
OPINION
NopinchingpenniesinB.C.healthcare
ROB SHAW GlacierMedia
Thehigh-pricedconsultantthe B.C. government hashired to find savingsinthehealth-care system hasbilled taxpayers almost$1.4millionthe past four years to helpdesign the systemshe’s now reviewing.
Dr. Penny Ballem, whotheNDP government namedastheinterimCEOofthe Provincial Health Services Authorityon Monday, received themoney asanadviser onhealth care to the government, premier andprovincialhealthminister, as well as servingas board chair for Vancouver Coastal Health,the second-largest health authorityintheprovince.
The$1.4milliondoesnotinclude Ballem’s new$400,000annual salary at PHSA,where government has putherin charge ofconductingan efficiency review intoahealth authorityshehelped create almost20 years ago, involvingprograms and policiesshehelped designasacontractorthe past four years.
In total,herbillingis expected to exceed $1.8million withinfive years.
Theexpensive feesarelikely to inflame
what wasalready acontroversial appointment by the NDP government.
Opposition ConservativeMLAs have in thelegislature called Balleman “NDPinsider”andquestioned the valueofhiringher to reviewher own work,as wellastheirony of government paying someone$400,000 to leadacost-cuttingexercise.
Health Minister JosieOsborne has rejected any suggestion Ballemisinaconflict overexamininga systemshehelped governmentconstruct, saying“herextensive experienceinthehealth-care sector” has putherin “a very unique and goodposition to be able to helpleadthis review.”
That experience,however, didnotcome cheapfortaxpayers.
Ballem charged$589,706in2021-22 to help governmentcraftanimmunization rolloutduring the COVID-19 pandemic, on topofbilling$46,452 as chairof Vancouver Coastal Health.
Thefollowing year, shebilled$233,100as a pandemicconsultant to governmentand $48,233as board chair.
Thehealthministry says Ballem may have used someofher pandemiccontract funds topayher own subcontractors, butno details were provided.
In 2023-24, Ballemtransitioned to become
specialadvisoronhealth care to Premier David Eby,billing$157,025,plusalmost $2,000inexpenses,on topof$88,034 at Vancouver Coastal Health,as wellasasmall remainderof$26,775inher COVID-19 role.
In 2024-25, Ballem bounced to three differentcontracts,billing$55,000asthe premier’s advisor,$67,375asa specialadviser intheministryofhealthonmentalhealth and substanceuse, and $36,094asa special advisor to Osborneonhealth-care matters. Government saidtheconsultingcontracts were separate andnotconcurrent.
As PHSA’s interimCEO, Ballem will reviewnotonlytheorganizationitself but alsofindinternalefficienciesinto agencies like BC Cancer, BC Children’s Hospital, BC Women’s Hospital, BC Emergency Health Servicesandthe BC Centre forDisease Control.
Osborne hasaskedher to produceher first recommendations within six weeks.
Rob Shaw has spentmorethan 17 years covering B.C. politics,now reporting for CHEK News and writing for Glacier Media. He is the co-author of the national bestselling bookA Matter of Confidence,host of the weekly podcast Political Capital, and a regular guestonCBCRadio.
Electionspring feverwillusherinanew leader
Justliketheblooming spring flowers, redand blue signsare popping upon lawnsall over my neighbourhood.
Big signsorlittle signs, they areaconstant reminderthat ourfederal political partiesare inafevered race to capture our heartsand our vote.
Like Optimist editor Ian Jacques saidina recent editorial, “Thisfederalelectionis quite possibly themostimportantin ourcountry’shistory.” It soundsdramatic butin a worldof economic turmoilit’s not.
I can’t recallanelection thathas wound people up and engaged so many.
We areanxious, andas a
Community Comment
INGRID ABBOTT
result, we can’t wait to cast our ballots.Iexpect voter turnout willbreak records.
The source of electionfever begins with national pride which was ignited after U.S.
President DonaldTrump declared hisinterest in making Canada the51st state.
It’s thefireunder ourfeet we need as we envisionanew self reliance. We may win at hockey, but we need to win economically too.
Thisisa racemostly about whoisthe best person to be our nextprimeministerand to lead usthroughTrump’spresidency.
Thethree main parties (Liberal, Conservativeand NDP)are making bigpromises, from exorbitanttax cuts to new pipelines. There are so many it’s making medizzy.
Every day, partyleaders, flanked by supporters,are at microphones making promises theylikely won’t be able to ful-
fillas we navigate a tumultuous tariff war withthe U.S. Historyshowsus campaign promisesareimportant, and most politicalleaderstry to followthrough, because voters neverforget.
Ask yourselfwhosepromisesare realistic, and will they bringthe economic stability we need?
Ournewleader must be able to influenceothersforthe benefitof ourcountry, be honest and make decisionsforus with integrity.
Make your choice wisely. Ingrid Abbott is afreelance writer whosepredictions you should nevertrust after she was convinced Walter Mondale would be the 40th U.S. president.
Ruderidersneedmanners, let’skeepDeltacyclingsafe
Editor:
The beautiful spring weatherbrings outlotsof peopleandfamilies walking andbiking. Unfortunately,italsobrings out too many rudeandinconsiderate bike riders.
My husbandandI walkthe path around Cove Links Golf Course and along Captain’s Cove Marina almost every day,no matterwhat the weather We alwaysencounterothers, old and young, whoare outenjoyingthis beautifularea ofLadner.
Thereare signs posted along the pathway, restrictingthebiking speed
to 15km. Most bikersareconsiderate inthat way butwhenitcomes to letting peopleknowtheyare about to pass them, I’destimateonein100actually doit. What’s so difficultin saying “on yourleft” or ringing your bell?
We liveinacommunityoffamilies, both youngandold. It shouldn’t be dangerous to go for a walk. Withthe onsetof warmer weather,theproblem willincrease, so please cyclists, be courteous. We don’t want to hear about another bikingincident inLadnerorin other partsof Delta.
Leslieand Nigel Anderson
Riverdredgingshould be a federalelectionissue
Editor:
Iwrite to raise awareness forthe benefitof our candidatesinthefederal electionoftheurgency to startanannualdredgingprogramforthe secondary channelsinthe Ladnerarea.
Thefailure to maintain such aprogram has
resulted ininjury risks to boatersgroundingon submerged sandbars, float homegroundings andheavy siltdeposits alongshorelines. Such aprogram requiresthecombined effortsof ourfederaland provincial governments.
MLA Ian Paton has
beena strong advocateof thisandI,as wellasa significant numberofother impacted voters, will be lookingforthe candidates to be on boardand gettingcommitmentsfrom their party to provide thenecessary funding to make this happen.
Thisisin response to David Lemon’sletter to the editoron March24, supporting“higherdensity.”
The “Forward thinkingplanners at thecity” also recognizethat prior to “densification acrosstheentirecityof Tsawwassen,”movingforward withimprovingthe necessary infrastructure to sustainthisdensification,needs to happen first.
Also, as per your comment about “does nothing to prise those land-hoggingeldersoff those5,000 squarefeet of land”givesme pause. I happen to be one ofthoseelders, and my family andImoved to Tsawwassenfrom Richmonddue to the densificationthat is goingonthere.
We areenjoying every squarefootof ourproperty,and ourfour-and eight-year-old areliving
thedream!
Perhaps you may see yourfuturelivingin surroundingswheredensification hastaken overand is making itsimpactonits residents.
They call Tsawwassen “a hidden jewel” for a reason.
I believe there can be acompromisewhere densification/growth can proceed withoutleaving a footprintthat willimpact ourqualityoflife.
Ruth Vohora
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AmilestoneopeningdayforLadnerMinorBaseball
IAN JACQUES ijacques@delta-optimist.com
Underglorious weather, theLadner Minor Baseball Association kicked offits 2025 seasoningrandfashion, Saturday at Cromie Park.
Thetrainingcentreoffers six batting tunnels,viewingareas, six washrooms,a gymanda conference room,as wellas storage rooms.
Theproject wastheidea of Ray Van Meriwick,who has beenthedrivingforcefor nearly eight years.
“Words cannotdescribe howimportantthisis to the associationandthe magnitude ofthisprojectfornotonlyus, butforthewholecommunity,”
said LMBA president Todd Allan.
“We have anopportunity to train rightin our own backyard We nolonger have to travel outsideofthecommunity, so it’s a game changerfor
allofus.”
The500-plusplayersand theirfamilies were given tours ofthefacility,while outside, thethree-time national champion Delta Blue Jaystookon theLangley Blaze, whilethe
Ladner13U AAA teamplayed Ridge Meadows.
Officially, at 10:45 a.m. the ribboninfrontofthetraining centre was cut by mayorand councilas wellas Delta South MLA Ian Paton.
ProudlyServingSouthDelta
“Great to celebrateopening day withLadner Minor Baseballand cutthe ribbonon thenewindoortrainingfacility at Cromie Park,” said Mayor George Harvie.
“Thisincredible space will support young athletesfor years to come. Wishingallthe teamsafantastic season!”
Thetrainingfacilityisthe largestofits kindin Western Canada made possible throughcommunitycontributionsand built by Lentel Construction Co Ltd.,a Delta company.
“Thecity has beenphenomenal to work withand put thingsforward to make this happen, becausethey realized howimportantit was,” said Allan.
“We havesuch a generous community. We didn’t have to go outforfundraising. The fundraising really came to us, so that’s amazing. It was like Christmasmorningon Saturday foralltheplayers.”
PHOTO COURTESY RICHARD PASCO/CITY OFDELTA
The newtraining centre forLadnerMinor Baseball, at Cromie Park, opened Saturday, April 5.
DPDarrest
Ontarioman
forsuspected drug trafficking
A20-year-old man from Ontario wasarrested by Delta policefor suspecteddrugtraffickingactivities.
According to anews release, on March26, 2025,theofficer watched what he suspected was a
drugtransaction occurring at thedriver’s door of a car, illegally parked inthe5200block of8A Ave. in Tsawwassen.
Theofficerconducted a vehicle stop andobserved multiple additionalindicatorsthat thedriver wastrafficking controlleddrugs.
Thedriver wasarrested.A search ofthe car andthedriverlocated a largeamountof suspected fentanyl,methamphetamine,cocaine,
cash, weapons, jerry cans of gasoline,anda balaclava.
The suspect has been released onan Undertakingwhilethe investigationcontinues.A report to Crown Counsel willfollow, recommending charges of possessionofacontrolled substancefor the purposeoftrafficking, and possessionof a weaponfora dangerous purpose.
TheFraser Valley RealEstate Board ispresentinga FederalAll Candidates Meeting, Wednesday, April16, at the North Delta Centre for theArts.
Four candidates will be participating inthemeetingwhich runsfrom7 to 9 p.m., withdoorsopening at 6:30 p.m.
• Jason McCormick(New Democratic Party)
• Jessy Sahota(Conservative Partyof Canada)
• Jill McKnight (Liberal Partyof Canada)
• Natasa Sirotic(People’s Party of Canada)
The Delta Chamberof Commerce isco-hostingandorganizingthe event which willfocuson business-related topics,including; U.S. tariffsandtrade, regional economicgrowth,employ-
The eventisopen to the publicand writtenquestions can be asked duringthe event. People can registerin advanceonthe chamber website but canalso just showup at thedoor.
Questions canalso be sent in advance to: jennyfer.cassar@deltachamber.ca.
Thenonthefollowing Monday, April 21,the Delta Residents’Associationis hostingafederal candidatesmeetingin theafternoon,from2:30 to 4:30 p.m., at the Northside Community Church, 1130084th Ave.
No Greencandidate
The ridingalmost hadaGreen party candidate but Nick Dickinson-Wilde didnot getthe required nomination signatures to getonthe ballot. Because of work commitmentson Vancouver Island,hecouldn’t get over to Delta to secure enough signatures
Dickinson-Wilde ranin Delta North intheprovincialelection last October.
*A comprehensivehearingassessmentisprovidedtoadultsages19andolder at nocost.Theresultsof this assessment willbecommunicated verballytoyou.Dependingontheprovinceyou’relocatedin, anadministrativefeemay apply if a copyofan Audiological Reportisrequested.Childhearingtestsareconducted at selectlocationsfor afee,please contactusformoreinformation.90-DayRisk-Free Trialbeginsatthedateofpurchase.Informationwithinthisoffer may varyorbesubjecttochange.Limitone offerpercustomerperyear.Offernotapplicableforindustrialhearingtests.Some conditionsapply,seeclinicfordetails.**90-DayRisk-Free Trialbeginsatthedateofpurchase.Ifyouarenotcompletely satisfied,youcanreturnitwithin90daysfor afullrefundor exchange. Source:review.nps.today/r/HearingLife-Canada.
LawnwateringrestrictedtoonedayperweekstartingMay1
Seasonal restrictionson lawn watering comeinto effecton May 1throughout Metro Vancouver. Residents and businesses will be allowed to watertheir lawnsa maximumof once per week to help conserve water.
“Withthe changing climate, summersin our region have been longer,drier,hotter, and more unpredictablethan inthe past,” said Mike Hurley, Chairofthe Metro Vancouver Board ofDirectors. “Toensure that the region’shighqualitydrinking water laststhroughthecoming season, we must practise good conservation habits, like reducing our outdoor wateruse.”
Under Stage1 restrictions,designated lawn watering days aredeter-
mined by property addressand type.Trees, shrubs,andflowers may be wateredinthemorningwhenusing a sprinkler,or at anytimewhen hand wateredorusing dripirrigation. Edible plantsareexemptfrom the restrictions.Lawn watering restrictions will be inplacefrom May 1 until Oct. 15.
witha sprinklerany day between4and9 a.m., oranytime by handor usingdripirrigation
These restrictionsdo not apply to theuseof rainwater, grey water, any formsof recycled water, orother sourcesof water outsidethe regionaland municipaldrinking water supply system. Member jurisdictionsenforce watering restrictions throughlocal bylaws.
“Inthe summer, our waterconsumption increases by over 50 percentthanks to lawn watering andother outdoorsuses,” saidBrad West, chairof Metro Vancouver’s Water Committee. “Weneed waterfordrinking, cooking, and cleaning over anythingelse, and reducing lawn watering isthe simplest, mosteffective
way to lowerdemand.”
Metro Vancouver’s water supplycomesfrom rainfalland snowmelt inthree mountain water supplyareasthat contain the Capilano, Seymour, and Coquitlam reservoirs. Metro Vancouvercollaborates withitsmember jurisdictions to plan foranddeliverdrinking water to morethanthree million residentsusing a systemof water supply areas, dams,treatment facilities, reservoirs, pump stations,and water mains. Upgradesare regularly made to the system to maintainthe regional district’s ability to reliably providehigh-quality drinking water. Findfull restrictions,as wellasideasforhow to maintainahealthy lawn, at metrovancouver.org/ lawns.
PHOTO NENOV/MOMENT/GETTY IMAGES
Water restrictions willgointoeffectstartingMay1 inMetro Vancouver.
CABINET
Sarah Gallop Design Inc. anarchitectural andinteriordesign firm based in South Delta,led by registered interiordesigner Sarah Gallop, won again at the Canadian Home Builders’ Associationof British Columbia33rd annual Georgie Awards.
at the Hyatt Regency Vancouver, the gala recognized excellencein home building, renovation,anddesignacross British Columbia.
Loveyourcabinets,butnothowthey’reworn? GleamGuardoffers asimple,cost-effectivesolution. We alsorefreshcabinetswhich costslessthan refinishing.
Bravada Homes with Sarah Gallop Design wonthe Georgiefor Best Single-Family Kitchen over $200,000 for ‘HazelmereEstates’ wherehomefeelslike a rustic retreat with sunsoakedinteriorsfinished to standthe test oftime.
CenturyGroup took home two Georgie Award Trophiesfor ‘Ridge Lane’ at Southlandsin Tsawwassen; Best SingleFamily HomeProduction
BravadaHomeswith SarahGallop Design wontheGeorgie for BestSingle-Family Kitchen over$200,000 for‘Hazelmere Estates’.
Developmentand Best Advertising Campaign.
On Saturday, March 22,the(CHBA BC) celebrated the best in residentialconstruction at the 33rdAnnual Georgie Awards. Set againstawhimsicalDr. Seuss-inspired backdrop
“The2025 Georgie Awards winners continue to setanew benchmark forhome buildingexcellencein ourindustry,” said Neil Moody,CEO ofCHBA BC. “Despite economicand regulatory challenges, these builders, renovators,and designers have demonstrated resilienceand ingenuity,delivering projectsthat elevate B.C.’s residential landscape TheirachievementshighlightCHBA BC members’ commitment to quality andinnovation,which defines ourindustry.” -Submitted
*Park Tours availableall day* Together we'll discussthe importance of pre-planning andend of lifearrangements. Free FlowerBundlefor guests andSpecialSpringDiscounts Join us fora specialOpenHouseaswecelebrate thejoy andblessingsof Easter- atimeofrenewal, reflection and faith. Plan ahead ensuring peaceofmindforourselvesand our lovedones.
10:00AM - DoorsOpen 11:00AM -Messageof‘Reflection &Faith’withPastor Phil Vanderveen 11:30AM -YourLife, Your Legacy withFamilyServiceManager Matt Jarvis 12:00AM -Refreshmentsand SnacksinourTeaRoom
PHOTO COURTESY SARAH GALLOP DESIGNINC.
Foresthealthaconcernfor Delta’sWatershedPark
SANDOR GYARMATI
sgyarmati@delta-optimist.com
TheCityof Delta hasissued a requestforbids to have anaerialand ground-based foresthealthassessment completed for Watershed Park andthe Kittson Park Reserve withinthe municipally owned boundaries.
Thecitynotesthat,in recent years, prescribed treatments to reducefuel loading have occurred alongtheurban interfacewhichincluded removalof finefuelsandtree pruningforcrown to baseseparation. “Cumulativeimpacts may be causingforesthealthdefects as evidenced by forestdeclinein some areasas wellastree thinning inothers,” thecityexplainsinits requestforproposals.
Watershed Park is Delta’s largestcity ownedand managed park,comprised of13 parcels totalling151hectares.
The North Delta park hasextensive trailnetworks popular withhikersand mountainbikers.
The park alsointerfaces with roads,
subdivisions,Pinewood Elementary Schoolandcontainsacity municipal watercompound.
Thecityis lookingfor,amongother things,assessment results that include anaccountofbiotic and abioticfactors negativelyaffectingforesthealth,an opinionontheforest health outlook given currentconditionsand potential climate change influences, management recommendations to reducefurtherdeteriorationof theforest’shealth andprovidehigh-levelcostestimates forthe management recommendations and suggestionsforaphasingplan.
From2022 to 2024, wildfirefuel managementoperations were carried out in 15hectaresin Watershed Park. Part of Delta’s Community WildfireProtection Plan,theprojectinvolved management of vegetationalong pathways and roadwaysinandadjacent to the park.
Thecityexplainedit wasfocusing treatmentsonareasnear the residentialfenceline to protecthousesandon theareas surroundingthefire halland Pinewood Elementary.
Delta staffare reviewingthe publicfeedback gathered onaproposed six-storey market rental buildingonLadnerTrunk Road beforetheproposal makesits way to council
forconsideration.
The rezoning, development variance and development permitproposal would seethenew six-storey purpose-built 78-unit rental building ona vacant lot at 5737 LadnerTrunk Rd.,next to a gas stationandthe
intersection at Ladner Trunkand57th Street.
The application by Maple Leaf Homesis consistent withthe Neighbourhood Centres and Corridorsdesignationinthenew Official Community Plan(OCP), according to theplanning
department.
A summary report onthefeedback gathered notesfivecommon themes were identified, reflecting “a mixofoppositionand cautious support fordevelopmentin Ladner, withemphasis ondevelopmentthat
by Maple LeafHomes wouldsee asix-storey apartmentbuildingwith 78 market rentalunits.
Termsand Conditions:40% off anyorder of$1000 ormoreor30% off anyorder of$700-$1000 onany completecustomcloset,garage,orhome office unit. Take anadditional15% off onanycomplete systemorder.Not validwithanyother offer.Free installationwithanycompleteunitorderof$850or more.Withincomingorder,attimeofpurchaseonly.
Termsand Conditions: 40%off anyorder of$1000 or more or30%offany orderof$700-$1000 on any complete custom closet,garage,orhomeofficeunit. Take anadditional15%offonany complete system order. Notvalid with anyotheroffer. Free installation with anycompleteunitorderof$850or more.Withincomingorder,attimeofpurchase
Withapprovedcredit.Callorask your Designer fordetails. Notavailableinallareas. Offer notvalidin allregions.Expires 11/30/23.
Regardingtraffic andcongestion, many respondentsexpressed worries aboutincreased trafficcongestionand highlightedexistingtrafficissues, particularly during peakhours. They were alsoconcerned thedevelopment would exacerbate the problems, especiallyexitingon to thenearestexit at 57th Street.
six-storey height was seen asexcessive, with suggestionsthat a maximumof four storeys beingmore appropriate There were alsoconcerns about the building’smodern appearance clashing with theheritage styleofthe neighborhoodandthe characterofLadnerin general.”
SPECIALFINANCING FOR12MONTHS!
SPECIAL FINANCING FOR 6MONTHS!
Withapprovedcredit.Callorask your Designer fordetails. Notavailableinallareas.
Concerns were also conveyed aboutinsufficient parking, the report notes,addingconcerns were raised the development wasnotproposing enough. Thedeveloper isasking for a variance to the required number of parking spaces from 86 to 40 residential parking spots,as wellas two visitor spotsandfive rideshare spaces,which residents believe are insufficient.
Regardingcommunityimpactand scale,the report notes, “Participants voicedconcerns that the scaleand designofthedevelopmentarenotin keeping withLadner’s small-town character. Theproposed
There wasalsomixed supportforhousing, as many alsofeltthat theproposed developmentdidnotadequately addresslocalneedsor fit well withinthecommunity. Concerns were alsoconveyed aboutthe adequacyofthe current infrastructure.
Amongthe recommendationsofaconsultant’strafficanalysis, thecityshouldmonitor theintersection performance at 57th Street at LadnerTrunk Roadand HarvestDrive at Ladner Trunk Road,andimplement geometricor signal timingimprovementsas warranted.
Council recently grantedfinal approval by anotherdevelopment application by Maple Leaf Homesnearby,a40-unit townhousedevelopment inthe4800and4900block of 57th Street.
It’s all aboutcoordination to help Lower Mainlandcommunitiesprepare for potential naturaldisasters.
Metro Vancouverisplanning to undertakea Regional-Scale Hazard, Risk and VulnerabilityAnalysis(HRVA)project, leadingandcoordinatinga regionalscale risk assessment specific to the region. Theprojectcomesasprovincial legislation will requireall23member jurisdictions having to complete individual risk assessmentsandundertakingengagement.
“Giventheunique challengesofthe regionandtheinterfaceof hazardous areasacross jurisdictional boundaries thereisacriticalneed forcoordination on hazardand risk work A regional HRVA approach would benefitmember jurisdictions, Metro Vancouver,and other regional partnersand supportan efficientandeffective response to new legislative risk assessment requirements fromtheprovince,” a Metro report notes.
The regionaldistrictis well positioned to provide regional dataandanalysis andplay acoordinating role to save member jurisdictionstimeandmoney, the report adds.
“Metro Vancouveris situated on theFraser Riverdelta,amongst many forestedareasand steep slopes,inone ofthemost seismicallyactive zones in Canada.Asa result,the regionis susceptible to a varietyof natural hazards, including earthquakes, wildfires, landslides,andfloods. Climate change isalready affectingthe region,andthe impactsare projected to become more frequentand severe over time,increasinglyaffectingthecommunities, infrastructure, and naturalenvironment,”the report explains.
In 2022, Metro Vancouverdeveloped a Natural Hazard Data Inventory to provideahigh-leveldesktopanalysis of available natural hazardand climate change impact dataacrossthe region.
Buildingonthat work,the regional districtalsocompleteda Regional Multi-Hazard Mappingprojectin2023, whichshowstheextent under vari-
Theinventoryprojectinvolves afield-based
vey ofcitytreesinurbanareas.
ous scenariosoffour selected hazards: coastalflood, riverflood, earthquake and wildfire.
Amongthefindingsinthat mapping project, theCityof Delta hasahigh probability risk inacoastalflooding scenario butis at lower risk of lowormoderategroundshakinginan earthquake compared to Richmond,while Burns Bog hasalowerprobabilityof wildfire compared to vast areasonthe North Shore.
Theprovince,meantime, has been working to developaprovincial-scale disasterand climate risk and resilience assessmentandintends to develop subregional risk assessments at a high level, the report notes.
That scaleofanalysisisanticipated to be broaderthanthe regionaldistrict level,andtherefore wouldnot be suitablefor Metro Vancouver’s unique regionalandlocalneeds, the report also notes.
Metro staffproposed fundingforthe HRVA projectthroughthe Regional District Sustainability Innovation Fund, totalling$500,000 over two years.
TheMetro Vancouver region contains over50per centoftheprovince’spopulation,themajorityof whichissusceptibletomultiple naturalhazardsandclimatechange impacts,accordingtothe report.
City to undertaketree inventory
SANDOR GYARMATI
sgyarmati@delta-optimist.com
TheCityof Delta hasissued a requestforbidsfor aqualified arboriculturalconsultant to conductanurbanforest subsection inventoryofindividualtreesin Delta.
Havinga$50,000 budget,the projectinvolvesafield-based surveyofcitytreesinurbanareas, focusing on streetand park specimentrees.
It does notincludetreesonprivate property,norisittheintent to include larger standsoftreesinthe city’s naturalarea,thecityexplains.
The purposeoftheprojectis to expandatree inventory that was startedin-housein2023,improve asset management, and gainan accuratecostofacity-widetree inventoryforareas withlow,mediumandhigh canopy coverage, the cityadds.
Theproject, part ofthe Delta’s Urban Forest Strategy isapilot
phaseofwhat may be a multiphased project.
“Anurbanforestinventoryis a keyactionin Delta’s Urban Forest Strategy andaligns withactions in Delta’s Birdsand Biodiversity Conservation Strategy.Atree inventory willimproveaccuracy andefficiencyofasset management, maintenancetracking, as wellasprovide guidanceonfuture tree plantinglocationsand species selection,”thecityexplainedin a separate report.
SANDOR GYARMATI PHOTO
sur-
SANDOR GYARMATI PHOTO
City expecting $1.5M from casino
SANDOR GYARMATI
sgyarmati@delta-optimist.com
Revenuefromthe Cascades Casino Deltais helpingtheCityof Delta’s bottomline, butit’s not a huge windfall.
Gateway Casinos & Entertainment Ltd.celebratedthegrandopeningofthe casino,located next to theinterchangeof highways 99and17A,in September2022.
Casinosin B.C. contribute10 percentofnet profits to hostlocal governments.
Thecityinits2025 Financial Plan has$1.5 million budgeted as revenuethis yearfromthe Cascades Casino Delta, the sameamount stated as received inthe restated 2024 budget.
Prior to itsconstruction,the BC Lottery Corporation(BCLC) esti-
mated annual revenue coming to Deltafrom the casino would be at the topendofitsinitial $1.5million to $3million projection, basedonthe casinoopening with500 slot machines.
The$1.5millionfor 2025could payfor,as anexample,the total estimatedprojectcost ofa synthetic turf field replacement at Dugald Morrison Park.
The Financial Plan hasthe casino revenues directed towards Delta’s capitalplan.
The Deltafacility features160,000-square-feet ofentertainment space withthe gamingflooras wellas restaurants.
The casinois much smallercompared to the River RockResort in Richmond,operated by Great Canadian Entertainment, as well
as Starlight in New Westminsterand Grand Villain Burnaby, both operated by Gateway Elements Casinoin the Cityof Surrey is also smaller than those gamingfacilities but hasmore slot machinesthan Delta.
TheCityof Richmond’s 2025 to 2029 Financial Plan hasthat city budgeted to receive$11.5millionin revenuein2025 fromits casino,whilethe Cityof Burnaby’s2025 to 2029 Financial Plan has that city’s gaming reserve budgeted at $9,865,000.
Surrey’s 2024 to 2008 Financial Planprojected $3,306,000in revenuefor 2025from Elements.
Initially open24/7,the Delta casinoisnowopen from11 a.m. to midnight, butonFridaysand Saturdays the gaming floorisopenuntil 2 a.m.
Thecomplexalso
Backin2016,BCLCannounced Delta waschosenasthepreferredhostlocal government foranewgamblingandentertainment facility.
includesanadjoining hotel with120 rooms, whichisoperated by Delta Marriott.
Delta’s casino might not have even been a reality hadtheCityof Surrey beeninterested in havinganother casino.
Eyeing Surrey for a much larger casino, Gateway wanted to shift
its gamblinglicencefrom the Newton Bingo Hall to aproposed $100-million casino resort.
Surrey council,however,defeated that application,amove that prompted BCLC, which wasalsolooking to expand gaming south of theFraser, to invitecities to submitexpressionsof interest.
That’s when Delta jumped in withan expressionofinterest, eventuallyfollowed by aformal application by Gatewayin 2017. Theproject was eventually approved butits construction slowed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
If youhaveany questionsregarding theprogramorhoursofwork,please contacttheEngineeringDepartment at604-946-3260.
Metrodevelops‘calculator’forinclusionaryhousing
SANDOR GYARMATI sgyarmati@delta-optimist.com
Metro Vancouver hasdeveloped anew
“Inclusionary Housing Calculator”formember jurisdictions wanting to adoptinclusionaryhousing policies.
Anew report to the Regional Planning Committeenotesthat the calculatoris part an Inclusionary Housing Policy Reviewproject, aimed at helpingcitiescomeup withtheir own policy toolthat uses planning regulationsand thedevelopment approvalprocess to generate a percentage ofaffordable housingunitsinotherwise market-ratehousing developments.
The report explains that the calculatoris a web-based andinterac-
Usersofthenew Metrotool can expectto build theirknowledgeofinclusionaryhousing, the regionaldistrict report explains.
tive toolthat allowsthe user to explore different development scenarios andmodify numerous variablesthatmake an inclusionary housing projectfeasible.
anditisexpectedthat morecommunities will usethe tool to increase anaffordable rental supplyintheircommunities, the report adds.
The calculator,however,doesnot replace financialfeasibility analysisthat areneeded to informthecreationof
municipalinclusionary housing policies, butitis aneffectivelearningand communication toolfor increasing understandingofthe mechanicsof inclusionary housing, the report adds.
A Delta staff report last yearalsonoted local governmentsthroughinclusionary zoning would be able to requireaffordable and specialneedshousinginnewdevelopments withouttheneed to rely
onadiscretionary rezoning approvalprocess.
Financialanalysis would be required prior to developing such zoning bylaws to ensurethat thecostsassociated with constructingaffordable and specialneeds housingareoffset by sufficient densityincentives,the Delta report noted.
The report alsonoted that, should Deltaimplementinclusionary zoning, thecity would be
required to submitannualmonitoring reports to theprovince.
Delta’s new Official Community Plan(OCP) contains policieson creatingnew market and non-market rentalsincluding working towardsdetermining a targetnon-marketand/ or rentalhousingcontributionfornewdevelopmentsin Urban Centres andthe Scott Road Corridor.
TheCityof Delta has issued a requestforbids forthe supplyandinstallationofanew LED sports fieldlighting system at Dennison Park.
Theproject at 7A Avenue site is to include the removalanddisposal oftheexisting sportsfield lighting system,including fixtures, polesand bases, as wellasthenewlighting system to serve the existingfootballfieldand baseballdiamond.
Thecity has14playing fields withlighting, three
ofwhich have already beenupgraded to LED fixturesthrough turf renewalprograms.
Thecityisproviding fundingforthe replacementandupgradeofthe remainingmetal-halide fieldlighting systems to modern LED systems whicharemoreenergy efficient, reduces maintenanceandminimizes glarewhich canaffect neighbouringproperties, thecitynotes.
Thecityundertook anewlighting system designfor Dennison last yearand wants to have the systeminstalledin
2025. The totalproject budgetis$1,050,000.
Constructionis to take placethis May,coinciding withthe baseball season.
Thecontractor will be required to undertake the installofthelight pole andconduitinstallation forthe baseballdiamond ina mannerthat ensures access to the baseball fieldand teamdugout areasareunrestricted from5 p.m. daily.
Theexistingconduit whichcrossesthefootball field has beenidentified for reuseasa strategy to avoiddisruption to that field’s playingarea.
Newtrackprojects starting to take shape for Deltaschools
SANDOR GYARMATI
sgyarmati@delta-optimist.com
Thenewtrack at Delta SecondaryinLadneris getting closer to completion.
be closed to the public butis expected to reopen at theend of May.
Thenewly placed sodgrass intheinfieldarea alsoneeds time to establishand will remain closed untilthen to ensurethegrassis able withstand repeated use year-round.
Theproject was scheduled forcompletionin November
2024, butdue to heavy rainfall overthemonthof October, the installationofthe synthetic running surface had been delayed untilthis spring,according to thecity.
Meanwhile,anothertrack project hasmoved closer to constructionafterthe Delta School Board recentlyendorsed adraft partnering agreement
withtheCityof Deltafor upgradingthetrack at Seaquam Secondaryin North Delta. Thearrangement willprovidedetailsonhowthecity and schooldistrict will subsequentlysharethe spacefor the benefitof studentsandthe community. Constructionofthe six-lane trackis scheduled to com-
mencethis summer withcompletion by fall2025.
Another partnershipproject withthe schooldistrict, which will getunderwayin 2025, will be the renovations to thefootball field/trackinfield at South Delta Secondaryin Tsawwassen.
Alocalinitiativeis making a profounddifferenceinthelives of womenwho have experienced abuseintheirintimate relationships.
Step Forward Health Society has successfully launched a newcohortofits When Love Hurtsprogram, anonline support and educationgroupthat empowers women withthe tools to understandandheal from abuse.
Sinceits launchin February 2025,theprogram has welcomed11 womenfromcommunitiesacross B.C.,including Delta,Langley, Chilliwack, and Squamish.
Through structured group sessions, participants gain deeperinsightsinto the dynamicsof abuse, emotional regulation,and patternsof controlthat perpetuate harm.
The When Love Hurtsprogramhelps women navigate
theirexperiences withgreater clarity and resilience. Overthe past several weeks, participants have explored key topics such asthe cycleof abuse, whichhighlightshow patterns ofviolenceand manipulation create entrapment. They have alsolearned aboutthe window of tolerance,aconcept that explainshowtraumaimpacts emotional regulation,as well asthe powerandcontrol wheel,whichidentifiesdifferentformsof abuse—emotional, financial,psychological, andphysical—that canexist within relationships.
Theprogramalsoaddresses sexual abuseinintimate relationships,anoften overlooked butdeeplyimpactful experience. Thesediscussions provide participants with knowledge and language to nametheirexperienceswhile fosteringa senseof validation
andempowerment.
Oneofthe most powerful aspectsof When Love Hurts is the senseofconnectionitfosters among participants.
Many women who have experienced abusefeelisolated, but within thisprogram, theyfindacommunity that understandsand supports them.
“Many women feel alone intheirexperiences, butthis group remindsthemthat they arenot,” said Meg Neufeld, presidentof Step Forward Health Society. “Thisprogram offersa safe spacewhere women canconnect,heal,and move forward withgreater confidenceand strength.”
Thanks to generousfundingfromthe First West Foundation, Step Forward Health Society was able to pilot thiscrucialinitiative. Withthe program’s success, theorganizationisplanninga second cohort laterthis yearandis activelyaccepting referrals.
If youor someone you knowcould benefitfromthis program, please visit: https:// www.stepforwardhealth.ca/for moreinformation on upcoming sessionsand resources.
-Submitted
PHOTO COURTESY STEP FORWARD HEALTH SOCIETY
Step ForwardHealth Society has successfullylaunchedanew cohortofitsWhen Love Hurts program.
Gardenerseager to attract pollinatorsand butterflies totheir outdoor spaces are invited to thenext South Delta Garden Clubmeetingon Tuesday, April15.
Themeetingpromises valuableinsightsfrom guest speaker Pam Swanigan,who isalsoanactivemember with the David Suzuki Foundations’ Butterflyway Project.
“Our speaker will be talking abouthow to create a habitat
that supportsnotonly the adult butterfly butalsotheir babies,the wonderful caterpillars,” saidTrish McMurray, co-chairofthe club’s speaker committee. “Pam willexplain whichnectar-producingflowerstheadult butterfliesprefer to feed from,which native plantsthey will lay their eggs on, andwhat the caterpillars will eat.”
Attendees will gainpractical tipsonelementsessentialfor
a successful butterfly garden, includingproviding sourcesof waterand mineral-rich mud. Themeeting willalsofeature a “showandshare” table, offeringanopportunity to connect withfellow gardenenthusiasts andaskquestions.
The South Delta Garden Clubmeetsonthe third Tuesdayof each month, with topicsofinterest for gardeners ofall levels.Annualmembershipcosts$35andincludes
perks such as gardenvisits, plantexchanges, workshops, andaccess to localexperts. Non-members are welcome to attendfora $10 guestfee. Themeeting will be held at theLadner Christian Reformed Church,located at 459454A Street. Doorsopen at 7 p.m., andthepresentation begins at 7:30. Formoreinformation, visitwww.southdeltagardenclub.ca.
-Submitted
Reach fortheStarsGala to raise funds forchildren with extraneeds
Overthe years, Reach Childand Youth Development Society galas have contributed essentialfunds to programs and servicesthat thenon-profitprovides to childrenand youth with support needs.
The Reachforthe Stars Once Upon a Time Gala’s fairytale balltheme is an opportunity to focusonthe positive and make adifferencelocally.
The13thannualfundraiser will be held at Tsawwassen Springson June 7 at 5:30 p.m.
The gala willprovideaheartfelt eveningwhere guestshearfrom Reach familiesas wellasenjoy a mingling appetizerandcocktail reception,threecourse meal,live auctionandemcee Steve Darling at the podium. This year, the charityfundraiserincludesaDJand
dancefloorgiving gueststhe opportunity to enjoy themselves withfriends andfamiliesofalldifferent ages.
RealcoProperties returnsas Major Donorfor thefourthconsecutive yearand Beedie returnsas Platinum Sponsorfor thethirdconsecutive year. “We rely on our generouscommunity to come outand support Reachthrough sponsorships,ticket purchases, dona-
An eventdesigned to help unpaidcaregiversand elderlyspousesnavigatetheir caregivingjourneybyproviding helpfulinformationand supportiveresources.
Learnabouthelpful products &servicesprovided by localbusinesses.
FRIDAY,APRIL25
Gardenerseagertoattract pollinatorsandbutterflies totheiroutdoorspaces are invitedtothenext South DeltaGardenClubmeeting on Tuesday, April15.
tions,oranythingthey can manage,” said eventscoordinator Tamara Veitch. “Together we cando our best to ensure that no childisleft behindduringthese toughertimes.”
Sponsorshipand auction prize donationenquiries can be directed to tamarav@reachchild.organdtickets can be purchased at www.reachgala.com. Early birdpricingisin effect at $225 perticket until April15.
Easteris statistically a Sunday that attractsmore people tochurch than almostanyother dayof the year(Christmas Eve beingtheother popular dayfor people to attend a church service).
We believe inthe forgivenessof our sins, achieved by the sacrificialand substitutionary deathof Jesusonthe cross, andthat by his resurrection,heoffers usnewnessoflifein him. Paulcontinues, “Therefore, ifanyone is
Our church isalso expecting many people to joinus to worship our risen Lord Jesus Christ onEaster Sunday. For Christians,the resurrectionof Jesusmeans everythingforus,andit changes everything about how we viewlifeand our world. The Apostle Paul saidit well: “Forthelove of Christ controlsus, because we have concludedthis:that one has diedforall,thereforeall have died;andhedied forall,that thosewholive mightnolongerlivefor themselves butforhim whofortheir sake died and was raised”(2 Cor. 5:14-15).
in Christ,heisanewcreation. Theold has passed away; behold,thenew hascome Allthis isfrom God,whothrough Christ reconciledus to himself and gave usthe ministry of reconciliation;thatis, in Christ God was reconcilingthe world to himself,notcountingtheir trespasses againstthem, andentrusting to usthe message of reconciliation. Therefore, we are ambassadorsfor Christ, God making his appeal throughus. We implore youon behalfof Christ, be reconciled to God.” Thereare several Easter services you can attendthroughout ourcity. So, joinus to celebrate themost significant event in history and to worship our King Jesuswhois worthy ofall praise.
AllSaintsAnglican Church 4979-44A Avenue,Ladner 604-946-9179 •604-946-4224
Tsawwassen United Church 693 –53rdStreet,Tsawwassen Rev.MariePaul Welcometoeveryonefor Worship
“Be Faithful,betrue, be ablessing”
DELTA SPORTS
The Jeannotte Rink representingthe Delta Tunnel TownCurlingClub won the PCMCA & BCIMCA combinedchampionship for 80-plusplayers inCloverdale duringtheMarch29th weekend.Picturedleft to right areskip DanJeannotte, third Wayne Welsh,second Dave Hansenand leadAndyPinch.
Sports stories? ContactIanat ijacques@delta-optimist.com or call 604-998-3616
TheLadiesonthe Bluff(LOB) tennis teamis startingitsthird season with renewed determination.
Afteran outstanding2024 seasoninDivision5 ofthe Vancouver Lower Mainland Ladies’ League, wherethey clinchedfirst place,the team has earned a promotion to Division4forthis year’s league play.
“Everyoneonthe teamplayed theirheart out. There wasn’toneor twowho carried the team;it was everyonedoingtheir part,” saidco-captain Vicky Balharry.
The team rosterincluded:Anne Howlett, Elisa Glennon, ErinKrawchuk, Juice Geboers, Lindsey Turner, Melody Hodgins, Monica Thomson, Sandra Geboers, Sandy Selinger, Suzanne Redmond, Therese Koster,and Vicky Balharry.
Playing outofthe Tsawwassen Tennis Club (TTC),
known as “TheFriendliest Little Tennis Clubin Metro Vancouver,” the ladiesof LOBareexcited to takeon new challengesandcontinuetheir winning streak. The TTCprovides a welcomingenvironmentfor playersofalllevels,fostering a robust andfun tenniscommunity. In addition to theirleague matches, members ofthe LOB teamarealsoplanning to participatein severallocal tournamentsthroughoutthe season,further showcasing their skills.
If you’relookingforfun,great tennis,andacommunityfeel, check out Tsawwassen Tennis Club at https://www.tsawwassentennisclub.comand consider joining. The Cluboffers social events,drop-in tennis,andcoachingfor tennisenthusiastsofall ages and skilllevels.
This Cape Cod-style family home islocatedclose tothe Southlands,FourWinds BeachHouse &Brewery,and L’Aromas coffeeshop,offeringcomfort andcharacter ina peaceful beachsidecommunity Just ashort walk from the beach, it features 4bedrooms, 3bathrooms, anda functional layout perfectfor familyliving. Highlightsinclude two fireplaces,a one-cargarage, anda versatile office space. The backyard backsontoa greenbelt andprovidesa private retreatwitha newcustom-built storageshed. Embracethe BoundaryBay lifestylein this serene, family-friendlyneighbourhood.
4bedrooms |3
Rarely availablerancher with loft in highly covetedareain Cloverdale.Mustsee to appreciate Functional 2600 sqft floor plan Beautifulkitchen renovation in 2020 includingnew appliances,stonecounters, timeless cabinets &vinyl plank flooring. UpdatedLED lights Newgaragedoor in 2021 and newroof in 2009. Primary suitewithwalk-in closet and renovatedensuite generous sizedbe Southfacingbacky allamenities and b Elementary andCl school catchments
Updated2,264sq.ft.home with 5beds, 2baths, andanopen-conceptlayout. Thechef’s kitchen featureswhiteshakercabinets,quartz countertops, agas range,and aspaciousisland.Outside,enjoy alargedeck,gazebo,andhottubintheprivate backyard.Thedownstairsincludes a1-2bednanny suitewithseparatelaundry.Set on a17,126sq.ft. lot with a300sq.ft. workshop,gardenshed,and RV/boatparking. Ararefindwith stylishupdates, amplespace, anddevelopmentpotential,near schoolsandshops.
4423 41BSTREET
Charming CountryHome on aSpacious Lot. This well-maintained10,740sq.ft.property features a3-bedroom, 1-bathroomhome with modern updatesandclassiccharm.Enjoyanew metal roof,renovated kitchen,clawfoottub, andnewer windows.Themainfloorincludes 2bedrooms, with apotential3rdbedroomor recroomupstairs. Additionalhighlightsinclude a15x28detached workshop, gardenshed,andgreenhouse.The fenced yard offersflowerand veggiegardens, afirepit,andspacefor achicken coop.Located just20minutesfromLadner Villageandnearthe FraserRiverDyke, thispropertyblends country livingwitheasyaccess to amenities. $1,349,000
5533 183ASTREET
$1,749,000
Welcome to ShannonHillsEstatesinCloverdale! This2,737sq.ft.home on a1/4 acrelot features RV parking, a24x30detachedshop,covereddeck, gazebo,water feature, andfruittrees. Themainfloor offersspaciouslivinganddining rooms, afamily room,largekitchenwithgas range,eatingarea, fullbath,andmud/laundry room.Upstairs,enjoy alargeprimarybedroom withensuiteand walk-in closet,plus 4morebedroomsand abonus room. Twoentrances to thesecondfloor couldcreatea privatenannysuite. Easyaccesstotheshopvia thesidedriveway.Upcomingupdatesincludea newhospital,KPU TechCampus expansion,and transitimprovements.
Margaretpassedawaypeacefully into thepresence ofherLordinher94thyear,surrounded by her family,inRichmond, BC.She wasborninKillam, Alberta,and is survived by her four children: Dorothy, John (Bonnie),Carolineand Heather.She was “Golden Grams” to Sarah(Kelcey), Hayden (Kadi), Danielle (Ryan),Alicia (Jeff),Talen (Nina)and “GG” to herbeloved Milo,Rooney, Finley,Clint, Henry, Daya, Millie andone more on theway.She was predeceased by her lovinghusband Keray, her parentsFrankand Blanche,hereight sistersand one brother.
Herlifewas atestament to her love anddedication to her family,and wasknown forhergenerosityand “Lovealways”.Margaret’sjourneytookher frombeing raisedon afarminAlberta,graduatingfromhigh schoolandpursuingfurthereducationand work in bankingandaccounting, to meetingthe love of her life, KerayO’Neal.Together theybuilt alifefilledwith devotion, laughterand abeautiful commitment to one another.Theymarriedand settledinVictoriaBCand began theirfamily, beforemovingtoLadner in 1969 and then moving to Richmond in 1981.Alongside Keray, they enjoyed renovatingand buildinghomes. They lovedaviation, watchingaircraft take off and landat YVR and flying theirCessna. They were alwaysactiveand worldwidetravellers.
Margaret wasanartistinevery sense; shefound beautyinthe worldaroundher.She wasa gifted writer,painter,ceramic and plastercraft instructor. Shepenned many poemsforher children’sspecial lifeevents. Margaretenjoyed learning,reading and lovedall herbooks.
In her lateryearsher real joywasher grandchildren and great-grandchildren; whooftenaskedifthey couldgotoGG’shouse. Margaret lovedher faith, wasa prayer warriorandenjoyedher church programs. Shealwayssaidshe “knewJesus her wholelife.”Her favouriteverseswereJohn3:16,John 6:35-47and Psalms 23.
Aprivate family servicewill take placeata laterdate.
It is with greatsadnessthat we announcethedeath of Gerald “Gerry”Miller, whopassedawaypeacefully aftera shortbut fierce battlewithcanceron March 26,2025,at theageof69.
GerrywasborninVancouver to Marleneand Remie Millerand grew up in Kelowna, BC,withhis brothers Ralph, Rick,and Dennisand sister Pattie.Itwas in Kelownathathe metthe love ofhislife, Patricia “Trish”Cook,in high school.Gerry is survived by his wife of48 years, Trish,andhisthree sons,Justin (Katherine, Melina, Joe),Bryce (Celeste,Wren)and Sheldon (Danielle,ParkerJune).
Aftera longand successfulprofessional careerasan executivewithWestFraserTimber,hespenthis retirement servingontheboardofGranite REIT, travellingthe worldwithTrish,playinggolf, enjoying time with hisfamily, and most ofall, having funevery day.
We wouldliketoextendour tremendous gratitude to thestaff at VGHwho madehisfinaldays comfortable.
Therewill benopublic service. In lieuofflowers,pleasemakeany donations to theBCCancer Foundation.
Sigrid (Siggy)ElseKay,formerly of Tsawwassen B.C.,passedawayonFebruary16,2025,aged96 years. Sheissurvivedbyherdaughter Monica and husband Wayne, andher sonRon,hiswifeElizabeth and theirson Brian.
Sigrid wasborninthe smalltownofWernigerode, Germany, in 1928, to Else (nee Arntken)and Josef Funke. Sheemigrated to Canada in theearly 1950’s, initiallyworking forthe KinsmenFoundationin Ontarioasa teacherofgymnastics andphysical fitness. Sigridmarried John Kay, Architect, in Toronto, Ontario, in 1954. Sigrid and John soon movedtoBC, initiallylivinginDeep Cove near theirdear friends Beryland John Blom,and then settlingin Tsawwasseninthe late 1950’s. Inthelate1960’s, Sigrid tookup thedisciplineofyoga,ultimately obtainingher yoga teaching credentialsin 1971from theSivananda Yoga VedantaCentre in ValMorin, Quebec.She wenton to createthe DeltaYoga Centre in Tsawwassen, BC.Throughherdeep commitment to andpassion foryoga,and the teaching skills shebroughttothisnew endeavour, Sigrid sharedherpassion forfitness, healthydiet, and yogicspiritual teachings withmanyfriendsand residentsofDelta,andbeyond,for many years. Throughouther life, Sigrid wasalsoanextremely gifteddesignerand seamstress,havinglearned from her motheras ayounggirl to design, sew, embroider, and knit.Sigridcreatedallmannerof clothing forher family formanyyears. In laterlife, sheturned these talentstodesigningand creatingmanybeautiful costumes,including forBalletBCandother performingartsagenciesand individuals.
Sigridlovedherhomeofmany decades in Tsawwassen,andherbeloved friendsand neighboursin that community.Inlater lifeSigrid movedtoNanaimo,BCtobe nearher family.She passedawayverypeacefully in theearly hoursof February16,2025.
Sigrid will be lovinglyremembered by her family and friends forherresilience, resourcefulness, courage, tenacity, creativity, and strengthofspirit. Hermemory will continue to inspire thosequalitiesinthehearts of thosewhoselives shetouched,and thosewho loved herdeeply.
Ed Neufeld passedawayonJanuary 27th,2025,at theageof89, afterlosinghis preciouswifeWanda thepreviousyear. He leavesbehind:Karl, hiswife Denaand their childrenMelissa,Shauna, Thomas andBrent;Roseline, herhusband Stanandtheir childrenKatelin, Mark andAlison; Ingrid;Ingo; Mark, his wife Leighand their childrenHollis,Austin and Cy.
Ed wasborninNikopol,Ukrainein1936,toDavid and KatarinaNeufeld.Havinglosttheir father, the family wasledthroughwar-tornEuropebytheir mother, settlingeventuallyinParaguay,where Ed metWanda Penner.Ed& Wanda left Paraguayfor Canadaand settledinLadner in 1963, in ahouse Ed built withthehelpofhis brothers.Theyraisedtheir5 childreninLadner with Ed supporting thefamily by workingintheconstructiontrade. He built many homesthroughoutthe lowermainland.
Ed wasa tirelesssupporterof theVancouver Mennonitecommunityandhelped build Culloden Mennonitechurch in East Vancouver. He sang1st tenorandwill berememberedbymanyforhisfine voice. TheNeufeld Quartetperformedatweddings, funeralsandcarehomes, entertainingand comfortingmany. In additiontomusic,Edwas passionateaboutart, andhepaintedthe many variedlandscapesof BritishColumbia.
Untiltheend,Dad found ways to maintain hislove of the outdoors. He lovedtoforageand knew the locationofpractically everyfruit andnut-bearing tree in Ladner.The FraserviewSeniors groupand German Singalong groupgaveDadenjoymentand friendshipin hislater years.
Edwill bemissedgreatlybyhis children, grandchildrenandgreat grandchildrenandwill be rememberedwithloveandfondness.
Hugo Dalke, borninMatildandorf, Romaniaon January21, 1929passedawayinhis sleepon March 17,2025at George DerbyCareCentre in Burnaby. He waspredeceased by hiswifeHilda. Hugo is survived by hisfiveadultchildrenKaren Joy, Shirley Wells,Sandi Gordon, Arlene Porter,Bruce Dalke, plus sixgrandchildrenand threegreat-children.
Hugo wasowner of Canam CarpetsLtd.of Tsawwassenfor over25 years. Hugo immigrated to Canada in 1949 with agoal to head west to Chilliwack wherehemethiswifeHilda, whilein the hospitalafter aloggingaccident.Hugo movedHilda and family around BritishColumbia, Alberta, Pennsylvania, California, OregonandbacktoBritish Columbia going whereverhe couldfindworkinhis craftwithflooring. Afterretirement Hugo traveled around theworld eighttimes.Hugolovedpeopleand always at theready to helpanyone with anythingas he wasa jack ofalltrades.
When Hugo lived in Tsawwassenifnotathis companyyoucouldfindhim eitherumping minor baseballatWinskill Park or coachinghisdaughter, Sandi’s minor softballteam.Heloved fishingoff Point Roberts andnevercamehomewithout some fish. Afterretirement heenjoyed marshallingat TsawwassenGolfCluband Milore Golf Club in Richmond formanyyears.
Hugo’s wishes were to be remembered by allhis family and friends ashedidnot want afuneralor celebrationoflife.
With sadness, we announcethepassingofour Mom, Omaand UromaonMarch 14,2025, RGH. Shediedpeacefully,surrounded by herdaughters. Momlived to celebrateher 105thbirthdaya month ago,onFebruary 14.
Predeceased by herhusbandLeo (2005)and son-inlawRon (2021).
SheissurvivedbyherdaughtersHannelore, Gudrun and Karin(Robin);grandsons Jason(Kala)CA. and Max(Japan);and great-granddaughter Stella. We thankour sister Karinfor thelovingcareshe gavemomthe last fewyearsofher life.
Thefamilyalsowishes to thank Dr.Clarke, her physicianfor many years, and thegreat nursingstaff at RGH.
Ed Neufeld’s celebrationof lifewill beheldat2pm April 22ndatCedarParkChurch,530044th Ave, LadnerBC. In lieuofflowers donations canbemade to MCCathttps://donation.mcccanada.ca
Born October 7, 1931, in MooseJaw,SK, theonly child of Ralphand Edna Pratt. PassedawayMarch 26,2025,at theGood SamaritanDelta View Care Centre. Shirleywas raised by herauntandunclein Edmontonafterher mother,Edna,passedin1936. Fast forwardtothe late 1940s when Shirleymet,fell inlove with andmarried JimGarlough. Over thenext seventyyears, they raised four children, travelled extensively, summeredat thefamilycabinatMa-MeOBeach, AB,and eventually made theirway to Tsawwassen, BC.Jim passedawayinJanuary2019. Shirleyissurvivedbyfour children: Jay, Kandy,Brad, Ward and theirspouses.She is alsosurvived by twelve grandchildren,nineteen great-grandchildren and twogreat-great-grandchildren.
Sudokupuzzlesare formattedasa9x9 grid, brokeninto nine 3x3 boxes. To solveaSudoku, thenumbers1through9 must filleach row, column andbox.Each numbercan appearonlyonceineach row, columnand box You can figureouttheorder inwhichthenumbers willappear by usingthe numericcluesalready providedintheboxes.
Lucienand Claudine were married on April11th 1960 in Beaucaire,France.
Congratulations on this majormilestone, momand dad (andgreat/grandma andgreat/grandpa)! 65 years is an incredible feat,yourdevotiontoeach other,your children, grandchildrenandgreat grandchildrenisimmense!
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