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DeltafirefightergivesbackatInvictusGames
PHILMELNYCHUK
pmel ny chuk @d elta- optimis t. co m
Whileinjured veteranssmashinto eachotherin steelwheelchairsortake spillson to theconcretefloor,Delta Fire and Emergenc yServicesfirefighter DaveMasonisaround, patrollingthe perimeterofthe basketballcourt,just incasehe’sneeded.
Mason, aformerBritisharmy royal engineer,volunteered withthemedical teamatthe Invictus Games,heldin Vancouver-Whistler last week.
Asalicencedemergenc ymedical responder,Mason canhelp outwith anyinjur yinthefiercecompetition betweenwarriors, who have been injured whileonduty.
Masonpreviously served fiveyears, includingapeacekeepingmission with NATO inthe BosnianWar,in1996/97, sohasanideaofthe struggles veterans face.
“I thinkthisis ahugepartofany militar yveteranwho’s suffered mentallyorphysically.
“It’sahugepartoftheir recovery, alongwiththeirfamilies.And Invictus standsforunconquer believe that their
just begun,” he said. It’s amazingto see thecompetitivenessduringthe eventsand the camaraderieafter wards betweenall teamsandfamilies, he added
When veterans return to civilianlife, the tu to orld thath
“I thinkthisis asafeplaceforthe veterans to feelaccepted,”Mason said, addingthebiggesttransition veterans faceafter servingtheircountry isfitting back into society,“becauseitwon’tbe the sameasit waswhen youleft.”
It’s atteroft ingtoget people to truggle withumatic
events, headded. Havingoutlets such as sports,meditation,hikingorsocial events canhelp.
TheInvictusGames Foundation, helps withlong-termimprovementin mentalandphysicalhealth,helping veterans to reconnect withfamilies andcommunities.
Masonsuggestsmembers ofthe publicjustdowhatthey can,whether throughhelpingout at thelegion, talkingtoveterans,volunteering or attending Remembrance Dayceremonies.
“I wouldliketothinkthat people still appreciate the effortsthatourmilitar ygoto, to protectourfreedoms,” he said.
Forhim,one benefitof volunteering is beingabletoreconnect withother veteransand beingabletogiveback.
“And we have noideawhatsomeof these veteransexperienced incombat andthe dailystrugglestheyhave,”he said.
TheInvictusGames,founded by PrinceHarry,DukeofSussex, first took placein2014,in London, England
PHILMELNYCHUKPHOTO
UPFRONT
GotNews?
Court rules man’s claimeaglestatues stolen can proceed
SANDOR GYARMATI
sg yarm ati@delta-optimis t. co m
A man who claimed he was robbed of a pair eagle sculptures, oneof solid goldand encrusted with gems, andthe other of solid silver, back in 2016, can proceed with a trial against theinsurers, following a recent B.C. Supreme Court ruling.
Saying the sculptures were part of a charity treasure hunt, businessman Ron Shore alleges he was violently robbed ofthe items, which were in a backpack, on May 29, 2016,inthe 4700-block 57th Stre et.
According to Delta police at thetime, whilelittleinformation was being released, there were “a large number of witnesses to thecrimeand investigators were also able to obtain video surveillancefrom the area.”
No arrests have been announced since
At a newsconferencefollowing theincident, Shore, who claimed he was loading them into a car, said, “I struggledas hard as I could yet was unable to prevent the robbery.”
He saidthetreasure hunt was part ofhis campaign, the Ultimate Treasure Hunt, to raise money forbreast cancer research His goal was to raise money for a seriesof benefit concerts.
The gold sculpture is valued
at over$1million, while the silveroneis valued at approximately $50,000,according to hisentity, Forgotten Treasures International Inc.
Shore’s insurance claim was denied, resulting in years oflegal wrangling and a lawsuit against
In reasonsfor judgment this week, B.C. Supreme Court Justice Lisa Warren ruled the delay has been“inordinate andinexcusable, but itisinthe interests of justice to allowthe
claim to proceed.”
At one point, he wona default judgment against Lloyd’s, but, “wasted two years trying to preser ve thedefault judgment andthereby avoid having to prosecute the claim onthemerits,” the justice said.
“On learning the Court of Appeal had dismissed the appeal,it was incumbent on theplaintiff to ‘step onthe gas’ , as Lloyd’s counsel put it, but insteadthe plaintiffcontinued to delay.”
The defendants had applied to dismiss the case in December 2024.
Pointing out that due to strained financialcircumstances, Shore attempted to do much of thepreparator y work himself, which contributed to thedelay, Justice Warrenalso noted, “there isno evidence that thedefendants tookissue withthe paceofthelitigation untilthe summerof2024.
“There isno evidencethat before thenthey put any pressure on theplaintiff to proceed. The defendants have not soughta trial date There have beenno attemptsontheir part to scheduleexaminationsfor discovery.”
ADeltacouncillor wants to know what the city is doing to make sure heritage buildings are maintained andnot allowed to deteriorate.
Rod Binder put forward a motion to have staff report back onthe issue during council’s discussion Feb. 10,onthe proposed 80-unit rental apartment building at 5401ArthurDr.,an application council elected to send back to the applicant for revisions to have a proposalthat adheres to the Official Community Plan.
The application includesthedemolition ofanexisting heritage building ontheproperty, known as Westholmeor Delta Lodge, which has fallen into serious disrepair.
Saying he is commenting in generalanddoes not want to cast aspersionsonthe current property owner, Binder said the city “hascertainly seen significant decline of this property due to neglect, perhaps for a variety of reasons.”
Approved by council, Binder ’s motion asks staff to provide an inventor y ofheritage buildings currently underthe city’s
heritage bylaws andcontrols,andhow they are being maintained.
“I just really want to avoid getting into a situationlike this again, if at all possible.
“Of course, it’s the responsibility ofthe owners, but I’dalso like to say we’re taking an active role in helping to monitor to preser ve someof our heritage buildings,” said Binder.
TheDelta Lodge is on Delta’s heritage registerandlocated within theLadner Heritage Conser vation Area.
A report to council notesthe applicant “provideda building condi-
tions report which notes itisin disrepair, unhabitableand wouldnot be desirable to salvage due to mouldand structural damage to boththeexteriorandfoundation. The inspection report also notesthat the weakness ofthe structure makes relocating thehouse unfeasible.”
The applicant proposed to retain some aspectsofthehouse with heritage value, including the dining room ceiling andentrance panels to attempt to reuse in a new entranceanddonate the stained glass for reuse purposes
The Westholme
Residence was built for David Alexander McKee, son of John McKee, who purchased theproperty from WilliamLadner in 1904and built thehome in 1905. The McKees sold thehouse in 1925.
It remaineda private residence with several owners until 1964,when it became a careresidence The Lord family took ownership that year and called the facility Melodie Court.
Subsequent owners continued the business until it was eventually calledDelta Lodge.
The care home business was relocated more than a decade ago after
Fraser Health identified the replacement of the aging Ladner facility as a highpriority. The health region at the time said the building would have required significant upgrades to remain a care facility.
The privately-owned site was subsequently sold.
A subdivision application was later submitted that would have accommodated theheritage structure. That applicationincluded seven, single-detached bare land stratalotsandcommon property fordriveway access offArthurDrive.
The application
received thirdreading by council in November 2017, but it was abandoned,andtheproperty was sold yet again.
Four years ago, the city received a development application to construct a 61-bed community care facility at the property
That application proposeda newthree-storey building withonelevel of under-building parking.
The heritage house would have beenlocated closer to ArthurDrive andfully restored as part ofthe care facility, but that application never proceeded
At a presentation to council tw o years ago, architect Andrea Scott with Lovick Scott Architects Ltd., said theex isting hous e on theproper ty isin very poor condition and would re quire extensive repairs.
A planning department report at the time noted staffencouraged the applicant to consider retention, restoration and integration ofthehouse withtheproposed rental development, and to engage a heritage professional to provide a more substantive heritage evaluation reportwith possiblemitigation and restoration recommendations.
Council rejects Ladner rentalapartmentapplication
SANDOR GYARMATI
sg yarm ati@delta-optimi st .c om
Deltacity council at its Feb. 10 meeting, voted in favourof sending an application to build a rental apartment building inLadner back to the applicant for revisions
Themove is to have the applicantcome back withaproposal to align withanyfuturedevelopment at the site with the mixed residential (MR) designationinthe Official Community Plan (O CP).
In 2023, afterpresentinga proposed fourstorey, 56-unit market rental apartment building fortheproperty at 4501 ArthurDr.,city staff met withthe applicant to discuss concerns about the “viability oftheproject giventhe current
economic climate and general challenges developers across the region have beenfacing in advancing purpose-built rentalprojects.”
A report to council notesthat, subsequently, the applicant reviewed theirproposaland increased the numberof units to 80andtheheight to five storeys.
The applicant saidthat additionalheight and density was necessary to ensure a viable rental tenure building.
The report outlineda pairofoptionsforcouncil,one was to givethe applicationpreliminar y approval to sendit to a publichearing, while the other was to sendit back for revisions so that it complies withthe OCP.
detailedproject review and publicengagement process. Afterthe public engagement process was completed in October 2024,the applicant advised that the rental
building was notfinancially feasible without additional sourcesof funding orpreferred lending rates from outside agencies such as CMHCor BC Housing,”
the report notes.
“The applicant started exploring funding options withthese agencies but has advised that construction muststart within six monthsof
receiving funding.The applicant wouldlike to progress their application throughthe land-use approvalprocess and is seeking council approval prior to pursuingopportunities to secure funding fortheproject.”
Afterasking several questionsfrom staffand conveying various concerns, councilelected to sendthe application back, withonlyCoun. Jennifer Johal voting in opposition to theidea.
At the current stage, there was no commitment to affordableunits.
A heritage structure thathad fallenin serious disrepairislocated on theproperty.
The applicationproposeddemolishingthe buildingasit wasnot feasible to restoreor move
778-240-5995
info@jessysahota.ca Jessysahota.ca
STOPTHE CRIM
A Q&A withCenturyGrouppresident
Discussionanddebate regarding thedevelopment proposalforthe Town Centre Mallin Tsawwassen has been robust the past fewmonths.
Lotsofquestions have be enaske d by residentsinlettersto the Optimist. The Optimist re cently conducted a Q&A interview with Centur y Group president Sean Hodgins to provide him a chance to address many of thos e questions
Q: Can youprov ide a little backgroun d onth e conc eptionofthis project?
A: Tw elfth Avenueand56th Stre et is arguably thecrossroadsofthecommunity, yet we have tw o gasstations and a Tim Hortons, ratherthanthe kindsof public buildingsand spaces one wouldexpect in a charming town centre. I want to reshape our town centre from parking lots to beautiful stre ets with publicar t andhomes over shops and a beautiful publiclibrar y and plaza. We should se e more pe ople walking andless cars be caus e pe ople enjoy andare interested in the walking experience. The conceptionfor me is se eing that other towns have be en able to dothis type of transfor mation and wanting us to doithere.
Q:Why 20-plusstorey buildings? Why not sixoreightstoreys?
A: Six-storey buildings have be en permitte d inthe town centre since 2011. No projects have advance d since then be caus e there isnofinancial incentive toCentur y Group, orany other proper ty ow nerin the town centre, to go throughthe publicprocess and expens e to renew theirproperties. Eight-storey buildingsdolittle better, and a project must be financially viableornothing will change
The density ofthe towers means that most ofthehousing iscontaine d toa footprint ofless than10 percent of the site By clustering thes e buildings in thecentre ofthe site we als ominimize impact to surrounding properties andpreser ve much oftheground planeforthelibrar y plaza andother public gathering places
Thes e buildings willals o offer very different homesthanis possible with smaller buildings, withcommunity kitchensfor large gatherings, re creation rooms, pet care and bike maintenancefacilitiesamong otheramenities Thes e are the types of sophisticat-
ed homes I believe pe ople willcome to appreciate greatly asthe y planthe next chapteroftheirlivesorfornew residents to buildtheirfuture here.
Q: The ne w library,under what termsisthis beingprov ided?
A: The library will be built by Centur y Groupandconve ye d to Delta as a public asset in perpetuity.
Q: Th ere have be en conc erns ab outinfrastr ucture inclu ding water, se wer, an d traffic. Can you address th es e issue s?
A: Wa te r and sewe r ca pa cit y are either cu rrentl y av ail ab leorare inthe proc es s of be in g upgrade d by theCit y of De lta to ma tc h thedensit y anticipate d intheOfficial Co mmunit y Pl an.An y se rv iceupgrades sp ec ific to ou r site wi ll be pa idfor by Ce nt ur y Grou p.
Ro ad ca pa city,transit ca pa cit y and pe destr ia n acces si bilit y have be en f ac tors at the ou tsetof ou r plannin g anddo cu men te d by a third-pa rt y profes si onaltrans po rt at ionengineer Th isincludes a newin te rnal st re et n et wo rk ,a llo wi ng ma ny ve hicle move ments to by pa ss the bu sy in te rse ctionof12th Av enueand56th St re etth at are fo rc ed throu ghthis i nt er se ctionnow. Ve hicle t ra ffic by new re si dents wi ll be si gn ificantl y re duce d be ca us e th e shopsand se rv icesthe y ne ed wi ll be ri gh t ou tside theirdoor
ingisalso required by Deltaandis generallyconsidered asaffordablehousing in Metro Vancouver(wepropose to construct215 rentalhomes). We are alsoplanning at least70 below-market homesand we will partner withanonmarkethousingprovider to do so
Q:Whatwill happen to th e mall tenants?
A: A significant objective of our planninghas be en to ensure there is nodisplacement of businesses during theconstr uctionof Phas e 1. It would not be until Phas e2 (2030or later) that somelimited tenant displacement begins, and we can either relocate themon site orfind otherleas ed space inthe town centre
Q:Whatisth e point of consultationan d public me eting s be caus e many feelthisisalready a done deal. Can you address this?
Q: Th ere have als o be en conc erns rais ed ab out DeltaHo spitalan d ab outcapac itywithth e ne w development an d talkthatyoushould be prov iding a medicalclinic as part ofth e development.Whatis your re spons e to this?
A: With everything happening at TFN, Deltaport and Tsawwassen Town Centre,I agreethat health care delivery isnot keepingup.If we need to contribute spacefor betterhealthdelivery such asanurgent care clinic, I’mdown forthat, butlet’s facethe realitythat health care in ourcommunity requires not justspace butfunding, political determinationandthedoctorsand otherhealth-careprofessionals willing to work inanyhealthfacility. If we want to attractthe younghealth -careprofessionalsneeded to transformhealth-caredelivery,then we also need the type ofhousing and services to attractmoreofthem to be part of thiscommunity. So,countmeinfor findinga solution to betterhealth-care deliveryas part ofthisproject. It would benefittheprojectandall residentsof thecommunityalike.
Q: How willthis project be affordablein termsofth e housingoptions pres ente d?
A: The studio,one-bedroomand two-bedroom apartments would be generally much lessexpensivethanthe typical single-familyhomethat dominates South Delta today Rentalhous-
A: Allofus at CenturyGroupare working hard to continue to address questionsandconcerns aboutthis project. Iam working hard to gain people’s confidence,andItakenothing forgrantedinthisprocess, norshould anyone. The very suggestionisalsoa disservice to our publicofficials,whose continual scrutinyI must answer to,as much asthoseof my fellowcitizens.
Q: Some have sugg este d that thisdevelopment willchang e an d destroy th e community?Whatis your re spons e to that?
A: One wouldthink I’m proposinga pulpmillinthecentre of Tsawwass en ratherthanhomes, shopsand a library. I heard the same rhetoric when wewere advancing our Southlandsprojecta de cadeormore ago. Now you se e pe ople walking the pathalong SouthlandsDrive, sipping coffe e ontheirfrontporch or sitting onthe patio at Four Windsand pe ople enjoying countlesshappy moments The same attention to detailand sens e of purpos e we brought to creating Southlands I want to bring to creating something special inthe town centre andthat iswhat drivesmeand my team. We want change, yes, and I believe most pe oplein Tsawwass en want it, evenasthe y area bit scared by it, but to notdothisproject misses theoppor tunity for changing parking spacesinto pe opleplacesand to create thehousing andamenitiesne eded forthe generation to come
OPTIMIST FILEPHOTO
Century Grouppresident SeanHodginsat Tsawwassen TownCentreMall.
Actiongroup forms to voice concerns over TownCentremall re-development
Anactiongroup ofconcerned local residents has formed, voicing serious concerns about Centur y Group’s proposed redevelopment ofthe Tsawwassen Town Centre mall site
The group became public last weekend andheld a coupleof ralliesin Tsawwassen.
According to a news release,research conducted by Dream South Deltashows the current average density oftheestablished neighbourhoods inthe town core is 84 residentialunits perhectare.
Centur y Group isproposing to build 1,433 residentialunits, making thedensity 434 residentialunits per hectare. That’s 517 percent more density than the adjacent neighbourhoods.
“Delta’s Official Community Plan (OCP)that was brazenly adopted in April 2024doesnotcontainany density metricsforthe town core although it doesallow up tosix-storey, mid-rise residential buildings The previous OCP specifieda maximum density of200 residentialunits per hectare,” saidthe news release.
Dream South Delta says thisproject
wouldalso seta precedent, encouraging more high rises and evenmore insanedensity inthe town core.
Dream South Delta says theysupport the redevelopment ofthe Tsawwasen Town Centre mall, supportshousing options,a new library andsupports increased density but onlyto a maximum of200 residentialunits per hectare as per the wisdomoftheprevious OCP.
“We donot support such an aggressive form ofdensification,” says Andrew Turner, spokespersonforDream South Delta. “We believe this proposal,if approved, would have significant negative impacts to our community for generations to come Instead, we support sensiblegrowth with reasonabledensity.
“We encourage all Tsawwassen residents to learn about theproject, so they know what is being proposed Then, please, submit your feedback to the City ofDelta before March 16.”
Dream South Delta say they will actively be raising awareness inthe community withits website, density research,community outreach events,a petition,and more.
Published every Thursday by the DeltaOptimist, adivisionofLMPPublication Limited Partnership
Thursday’scirculationis 17,500 Thispaperismadeof40% recyclednewsprintandprinted using vegetableinks
OPIN ION
Let kindness grow thisPink Shirt Day
Adifferent theme, but stillthe samemessage – as a society, we all must do better.
The annualPink Shirt Day is Wednesday, Feb. 26 This year ’s theme is Let Kindness Grow.
Once again,the Delta police, Deltafirefighters,CityofDelta and Delta SchoolDistrict are collectively coming together to share that message of kindness andanti-bullying infront ofmore than1,800elementar y school childrenfromthedistrict at the annual Battleofthe Badgeshockey gamein North Delta
You can learnmore about the big gamein our special Pink Shirt Day sectionin today’s (Feb. 20) print edition.
If you are notfamiliar with Pink Shirt Day,the day was created by a pairofGrade12 students from Nova Scotia who wanted to show their support for afellow student who had beenthetarget of bullying at their school – in part– because the student wore a pinkshirt.
So, these students wore pink shirtsandthe day was born.
Pink Shirt Day has been recognized as a day ofaction since 2007.
The Battleofthe Badgesis a great event thatgathers the school studentsandhelps to reinforcethemessages ofantibullying,but asgreat asthe game isare isalltheeffortsof our police, firefighters, schooldistrict andcity officials, more actionis needed.
And if you have a sense of déjà vuandthink you have read
thismessage fromme before, you would be correct.I wrote a similarcolumn last year with theexact samemessage – we all must bebetteranddo better Just last week,a parentmade animpassioned plea on a local Facebook page letting thecommunity know that her children were experiencing bullying and racism. Hurtfulandderogator y commentsand language have beendirected at her children by other children. She saidthecom-
munity needs to do betterand fostera much more welcoming community.
And I couldn’t agree more. I witness this type of behaviour daily in our socialmedia community Facebook pages. Far too many so-called adultsin Delta use socialmedia as a weapon to spread misinformation,use derogator y language and vile comments to intimidate and bully others iftheiropinionsdifferfromthere own.
Whathappened to civildiscourse? Whathappened to havinga respectfulexchange ofideas andopinions without attacking theother personfortheirviewpoints?
If we expect our children – the next generationof young leaders in our society to carr y that anti-bullying message, should we asadultsnot be leading by example?
It’s time many ofustakea long lookinthemirror and start realizing that we are theproblemand we have to do betterand be a part ofthe solution to these problems.
- Ian Jacques
Traffic chaos in Tsawwassen? Whattrafficchaos?
Traffic has long been a pillarofthenodevelopmentcrowd argument.
The Delta Optimist is a member oftheNationalNewsmedia Council,whichisanindependent organization established to deal withacceptablejournalistic practices andethicalbehaviour If you have concernsabouteditorial content please contact theeditor at: ijacques@delta-optimist.com or call 604-998-3616 If you are not satisfiedwiththe responseand wish to file a formal complaint visitthe website atmediacouncil. ca or call toll-free1-844-877-1163 for additionalinformation. Entire Contents
Opponentsarenow losing theirmind abouta new aspectofthe Tsawwassen Town Centre plan. Apparently, there isn’tenoughtraffic shown in the recently completed project transportation report.
Bunt &Associates completed a transportationimpactassessment thismonth, including trafficcounts at 13intersectionsin andaroundthe town centre. Someofthe study focus resulted from a traffic count Deltacompleted in2017, which showe d that Friday and Saturday are the tw o highest
traffic days in Tsawwass en.
However, the report is based onactualtrafficcountscompleted in2023and 2024,whilethe project was being planned.
It shows that thegreatest hourly traffic peakisFriday, between3 and4 p.m.About 950 vehicles comeand go fromthe Tsawwassen Town Centre Mall (450inboundand500 outbound) during theFriday peakhour
The next highest traffic peak is Saturday, between 1:15and 2:15 p.m.About 850 vehicles comeand go fromthe site (400 inboundand 450 outbound)during the Saturday peakhour
So, what isthepredicted impactofthisproject?
At full build-out(2035) itindi-
Community Comment
MIKESCHNEI DE R
cates traffic changes, bothin volumeand whenit occurs. The Friday peak, increases from950, to a predicted 995 vehicles, during the peakFriday hour. More significant isthe
Saturday peak. It ispredicted to increase from850 vehicles to 1,065 vehiclesduring the Saturday peak. That’s another 215 vehiclemovements (ora 25 percent increase) during that single peakhour. Not insignificant but farless thanthe“thousands of vehicles” andthe “chaos” that opponents claim will be the impactofthisproject.
There isanotherfunfactinthe report : exceptfor a blipin2016, trafficin Tsawwassen has been steadily declining since1999. Evennow,afterthis recently completed traffic report, naysayers disputedatacollectionand lament potential traffic chaos whenit appears there won’t be any.
Let Kindness Grow thisPink Shirt Dayon Feb. 26.
Awaitinggenuine leadership
Editor:
The City of Delta’s call for feedback onthe proposed Tsawwassen Town Centre Mall redevelopment has prompted me to considerandshare my thoughtsontheplan.
Additional housing certainly will be welcomed to address the lack ofaffordableoptions in the region,however, the density andheight of thedevelopment far exceeds the current density and characterof Tsawwassenandhere lies the disconnect between the proposalandwhat can realistically enhance the community.
Without a comprehen-
sive planfromcouncil to address trafficcongestion, civicamenities, and solid engagement withprovincial government,that resultsindefined plans to support education, public transitandhealth care capacity investments in South Delta, thisproposal isincomplete at best,and reckless at worst.
Council’s inability to seize theopportunity to provide a visionforhow theinfrastructure, services, andamenities will complement development and secure support fromtheneeded agencies and levels of government representa failure of leadershipandtherefore
proposals such asthis cannot be allowed to advance withoutthefull picture ofhow thiscommunity will possess the fundamentalinfrastructure and services to support such rapiddensification without sacrificing quality oflifeforthe current andfuture residents of Tsawwassen.
I will eagerly await genuineleadershipand visionfromcouncilon a true, comprehensive planfor Tsawwassenand Delta, andnot simply, “Densifynow andfigure out the rest later.”
I fear I might be waitinga long time.
Justin Laufer
I don’t want to seea concrete jungle
Editor:
I amwriting on behalf of caring Tsawwassen residentswhodon’t want the Tsawwassen Town Centre to looklike downtown Vancouver
If,andwhen,the towersare built,theentire feelof Tsawwassen will be changedforthe worse.
Why wouldanyone want cold,concrete towers inthe very warm
heart of Tsawwassen?
Thisform of buildingis very intrusive to thepreexisting buildingsand homesas wellasintrusive to the very community and characterthatmakes Tsawwassen.
Moreover, if Tsawwassenisfull of towers, the quality oflife will be reduced. It will become a city.
A Tsawwassen with four towers up to 24 sto-
reys inheight will change thefeelof Tsawwassen from a warm, pleasant, laid-back town, to a busy, rushed,heartless city, lacking the personality ofthe town that existed previousoftheproposed urbanization.
The majority of residentsin Tsawwassendo not want to seea concrete jungle made out oftheir town centre.
Andreas Larsen
How do we decide fair compensation?
Editor:
Reading the apparent continuing dialogue about mayors andcouncillor salaries - at both the local and regional levels -I have long advocated for a position where, intheinstance of local councils, for example, representatives running forele ction to positions would
andshould be re ceiving compensation at the levelsthat existe d when the y were elected
Ifthere would be a ne ed identified to legislate increase d compensation(and/or benefits) thenthose increase d benefits would apply to future compensation and/or benefits, but not to compensation pack-
ages to be provide d to elected officials currently serving.
It isdifficult to understandhow blatant conflictsofinterest can be avoide d ifelected officialsare allowe d to decideonhow their current compensation packages can be designed.
Firth Bateman
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Emergency room wait times at Delta Hospital have reached 8.5hours, making it clear our health-carefacilitiesare not equipped to handle a sudden population surge.
The strainon our local infrastructure, including water, sewage, and public services, isanother major concern.
ing withthe character of our town.Many residents, including myself, are concerned about how suchlarge-scale development willimpactthelivability and charm of our community.
I urge thecouncil to consideralternative, more-moderate growth solutionsthat align with our town’s existing infrastructure and resources.
I respectfully request that thecouncilconduct a thoroughimpact assessment, includinga traffic study andinfrastructure review, before approving any highdensity developmentsof this scale
The following letter was sent to theCit y of Delt a and copied to the Delt a Optimist.
I se e fromtheliterature you maile d methat, “a publichearing isnot allowe d underprovinciallegislation.”
You represent that the process you havesubsti-
tute d isan “engagement program” which willnot influencethe re development inany way. It servesonlyto give the appearanceofcommunity input.
SincetheOfficial Community Planallows for development up to 24 storeys, it would
appearthat thecity isentirely unable to prevent thedeveloper from building whatever he wants onthe site Otherdevelopers will,of course, follow.
Welcome to stage oneofthe White Rockizationof Tsawwass en.
Davi d Anderson
Questioning thehousingdataused
Editor :
I understand our city’s desire to meet the required levelsonhousing density for funding.
I questionhowever, the datathat is used.
In Tsawwassen, thenewest and largest density that usesall our city’s resourcesis
notincluded in the calculations I would be interested to know ifthe development onthe Tsawwassen First Nation was included,ifit would have turned thedial, andmore importantly, have had animpacton our Official Community Plan.
Bruce Fougner
ProudlyServingSouthDelta
Tsawwassen TownCentreMallSiteProposal
TheCityofDeltahasreceivedanapplicationfortheredevelopmentofthe Tsawwassen Town CentreMallsite.Theapplication forsubdivisionandrezoningproposes 4mixed-useresidential towersup to 24storeysinheightaswellasseveralmid-rise buildingsup to 6storeysinheight.Theapplicationis consistentwiththeOfficial CommunityPlan. ADevelopment Permit wouldberequiredforeachphaseoftheproject to regulateformandcharacteriftheapplicationisapproved.
Complete informationabouttheapplicationis availableat letstalk.delta.ca/TTC.Feedbackwillbe collectedthrough to March16,2025. Formoreinformation,emailttc@delta.caorphone604-952-3814.
ProposalDetails
•1,433residentialunits, including amixofstrata, marketandnon-market rentals
•6,596m2of commercialspace, including a2,880m2grocery store
Residentsareinvited to learnmore abouttheapplicationand completean onlinefeedbackform to sharetheir viewsprior to March16,2025. Consider attendingoneofthefollowingthree informationsessions to engagewith staffandtheapplicant.
Deltahasbeenordered by theProvince to add3,607unitswithin 5yearsand recentestimatesshowtheneedisgrowing.Someofthehousingproposed couldhelpmeettheneed.
Howlongwillittaketobuildifapproved?
Itisexpected to takeatleast10years,dependingonmarketdemand.
Howwillitimpactschoolsandhealthcare?
DeltaSchoolDistrictand FraserHealthare awareofourpopulationprojections andareplanningforgrowth.Theyhave received copiesofthisproposalfor comment.
Dowehave theinfrastructure?
Theapplicant wouldberesponsibleforupgradinginfrastructure to support theirproject. TheCityisalso workingonplansforwater,sewer,stormwater, andtransportationservicesforthethreegrowthareasidentifiedintheOfficial CommunityPlan,including Tsawwassen.
Whatwillhappen to thegrocerystore?
Theapplicantis workingwithThrifty’s to relocateintotheproposeddevelopment.
Whatisthe ‘community contribution’?
TheOfficial CommunityPlanallowsfordevelopmentsup to 24storeyswitha significant communityamenity.Theproposalincludes anewlibrary,centralplaza, publicart,andmarket-rentalandbelow-markethousing.
Willtherebe apublichearing?
Apublichearingisnotallowedunderprovinciallegislation (Section464ofthe LocalGovernmentAct).TheCityis conductinganengagementprogram to share informationandgatherfeedbackfromthe community.
Deltassist hostingits eighthColdestNightofthe Year
The Coldest Night ofthe Year (CNOY) is a nation-wide event where thecommunity walks together(2kmor5km) to raise money to supportDeltassist Family& Community Services (Deltassist).
Thisis Deltassist’s eighth
yearhosting CNOY andtheir goal is to raise $35,000.
All funds raised through CNOY will go directly towards the food security, community gardenand seniors’ subsidies programs.
“Ourhope, throughthe
Coldest Night ofthe Year (CNOY) fundraising walk, is to inspire our community to help Deltassist raise vital funds which willprovide valuable services in our community, helping peopleand families experiencing homelessness orinsecure housing through our community gardenand
helping seniors maintaintheir independenceintheir own homesthroughlight housekeeping, light yard work and small handyperson repairs,” said Deltassist in a news release.
CNOY ison Saturday, Feb. 22 starting at 4 p.m. at city hall inLadnerand finishing at city
hall at 7 p.m.
“We’re looking forward to a great turnout.”
In order to help usmeetand exceed our goal, we need your help! Donations for Deltassist can be madedirectly onthe CNOY website: https://cnoy. org/location/delta. -Submitted
Mental health support group for 2SLGBTQIA+ youthlaunches in Delta
AsDelta’s population continues to grow and diversify, mentalhealth services must evolve to meettheneeds ofall community members
Building on a successful launch campaign this past fall, the Step Forward Health Society isintroducinga new mentalhealth support group specifically for 2SLGBTQIA+ youthin Delta.
Whatmay come as a surprise to someis that research shows 2SLGBTQIA+ youthare
at significantly higher risk for suicide, with rates four tosix timeshigher thanthe general population. A recent study by The TrevorProject found that 45 per cent ofthese youth have seriously considered suicide, while20 per cent have attempted it. Alarmingly,60 per cent reported being unable to accessthe mentalhealth care they needed. Additionally, 2SLGBTQIA+ youth often face greater challenges due to their genderidentityand sexualorienta-
“These youthare an important part of our community,and we recognize the gap in supports available to them. We want to bridge that gap,” says Meg Neufeld, president ofthe Step Forward Health Society.
“We also know that the 2SLGBTQIA+ youth populationin Deltaisgrowing anddeser ves access to mentalhealth services that offer safety, valida-
tion,andopportunities for personalgrowth. Our goalis to co-create this support group alongside itsmembers, ensuring itmeetstheirneeds throughongoing feedback andcollaboration.”
To bring thisinitiative to life, the society has contracted with Alongside You,alocal mentalhealth clinic, to be the serviceprovider and to developand run thegroup. Fiona Scott, a Registered Clinical Counsellor at Alongside You, will facilitate the
sessions.A member of thequeercommunity with close family ties to thetranscommunity, Scott isdeeply passionate about thisproject.
“Thismentalhealth support group for queer youthis somethingI care about on both a professionaland personal level,” says Scott. “I’mincredibly grateful for the full support of the Step Forward Health Society and my employer, Alongside You,in making this possible. The most effective support groups
are those shaped by the peoplethey serve. My roleis to guidetheprocess, ensuring that everyone feels safe, respected, andheard.”
The support group is open to any 2SLGBTQIA+ youthingradeseight to 12 seeking community andmentalhealth support. Registrationisnow open,and participation is free
Youth can reach out to 2SLGBTQIA-youth@stepfor wardhealth.ca or call 604-283-7827ext. 740. -Submitted
Bookon Tsawwassenfillsingapsabout Delta’s sunny place
PHIL MELNYCHUK
pmeln yc huk @d elta-optimis t.co m
Few books have beenwritten about Tsawwassen so awriter who grewupthere has filledin some ofthe gaps withhis book, Sunny Tsawwassen:1857-2024.
Kevin Hicks initially hesitated about taking ontheproject, but knewit had to be done, and was ultimately talked into it by friendsandfamily.
Tsawwassen has not yet had a comprehensive history written about it, he said by email.
Whiledevelopment and change iscontroversial now, Hicks says there were fewbig fightsinthe1950sand1960s when thearea transformed intoa suburban community.
“Theprior population was quite smalland many who
had beenhere early, soldoff sectionsof land to developers willingly,” Hicks said.
However, the attempts to developthe Spetifore farm in the1970sand1980s generated “significantopposition to any development,” which Hicks saidheexplainsindetail.
Tsawwassenused to be rural,forested and home to Tsawwassen First Nationsand a numberoffarm families eking outa living.
“Much ofthe soilhere was inferior to what could be had inLadner, so not too much was going onhere for a while,” Hicks said.
The opening ofthe George Massey Tunnel,in1959, changed that.
“Sincetheopening ofthe Massey Tunnel, Tsawwassen
has been seenas being an idealplace to raisea family in a peaceful suburban setting and inwhich people can commute to work with relative ease
“This remainsthe same today withtheexceptionthat the peoplewho came here in the60sand70s were also lured by very attractive housing prices,” he said.
He interviewed several longtime residentsasking them to explainwhat drewthemthere.
Having grown upin Tsawwassen, Hicks saidhe said he’s always known it’s a place where there area lot ofolder folks andthat itis going to continue to evolve overthe next decade
“I do my best to honourthis generationinthe book asthey were theoneswho turned
Bookabout Tsawwassen explainstheearlydays.
Tsawwasseninto the community we recognize today.”
Withone book complete, there are plansforothers.
Next onthe to-dowriting list is a bookonLadner and Port Guichon,fromthe beginnings of settlement to present day.
“Ladneris a bigger topic but
there isalso so much more info availableonthat subject, so there’s lotof ways I can approach it.”
Sunny Tsawwassen has just beenprinted,and Hicks isdelivering the booksto any Deltaor Tsawwassen First Nationsaddress.
KEVINHICKSIMAGE
CHURCHDIRECTORY
Sacred Heart CatholicChurch
3900 Ar thurDrive, Ladner 604-946-4522 sacredheartparish.ca
The Impala,a remarkableAfricandeer, possesses a verticalleap of more than10feetand can jump distances exceeding 30feet. Yet, despite itsincredible ability,it can be easily contained in a zoo. The reason? The Impala will notleap unless it can see where it will land. A simple six-foot wall suffices to keepitconfined. This mirrors thedilemmamany Christian’s face. Like theImpala, we oftenhesitateto takea leap offaith unless we are certainofwhere God isleading us However, God calls us to a bold,unwavering trust. He seeks believers who willobey the prompting ofthe Spirit,
evenwhenthedestinationisunseen.Asthe Apostle Peter stepped out ofthe boat infaith (Matthew14:29),hedid notknow the outcome but trusted in Jesus’ word Isaiah, too, trusted
God’s call, saying, “Here amI. Send me” (Isaiah 6:8),despite theuncertaintiesofthetask ahead. The Apostle Paul reminds us to “walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7),for God’s ways are higherthan ours (Isaiah 55:9).
We must be willing tolaunch into thedeep with God because Christ Himself launched into thedeepforus He left theglor y ofheaven, stepping into the unknown of human suffering anddeath, allfor our redemption(Philippians 2:7-8).As believers, our faithshould reflectthis same trust. God is calling us to leap, to trust Him in the unknown, and to live by faithfor Hisglory.
“Bekind,stopbullying.”
PINK SHIRT DAY
WEDNESDAY FEB26 2025
PINKSHIRTDAY 2025 #LetKindnessGrow
On Wednesday,February 26,Delta will proudly celebrate Pink ShirtDay,a national movement thatpromotes kindness, respect, andinclusion whiletakinga stand against bullying.
Join us in wearingpinktodemonstrate our community's commitmenttospreadingkindnessandcombating bullying inallitsforms.
Let’scontinuebreakingthe silencearoundbullyingand creatinga safeandsupportive environmentfor everyone to feelempowered.
(lefttoright): CouncillorDanielBoisvert, CouncillorJessieDosanjh,CouncillorDylan Kruger, MayorGeorge V. Harvie,CouncillorAliciaGuichon,CouncillorRodBinder,CouncillorJenniferJohal
Battleofthe Badges highlights Pink Shirt Day in Delta
IAN JACQUE S
ijacque s@ delta-optimis t. co m
It’s a friendly rivalry game with a purpose.
On Wednesday, Feb. 26,Pink Shirt Day activitiesin Delta will be highlighted by theannual Battleofthe Badgeshockey game between the Delta Police Department andthe Delta Fire Department.
Withthis year’s Pink Shirt Day themeof Let Kindness Growat the forefront, officers and firefighters willtake to the ice at the Sungod Arena in North Deltainfront of more than1,800elementary school students.
“Battleofthe Badges ismore than just com-
petition;it’s about standing togetheras a community,” said Delta Police Chief Harj Sidhu.
“Alongside our partners at theCity of Delta, the Delta SchoolDistrict, and Delta Fire, Delta Police iscommitted to promoting kindness and respect. Our team wants all youth in ourcommunity to know that true strength comesfrom standing upforothers. If you see someone being bullied, speak up, support them, and remember that no one standsalone.”
Fire Chief Guy McKintuck saidasfirst responders, thefire department isdedicated to protecting thecommunity from harm andas
well,fostering a cultureof respect.
“On Pink Shirt Day,
we standunited against bullying andin support of a kinder world,” he
said. “Together, we can build a safer, more inclusive community where everyonefeels valued. By choosing to stand by victims, report bullying, block negativity,and unite against hate, we can allplay a part Let’s keep spreading kindness, one act at a time.”
Mayor George Harvie saidthe Battleofthe Badgesis a cherished event inthecommunity.
“Students witness firsthand our local fire and police members uniting to encourage kindness, empathy,andunderstanding, offering support to those affected by bullying,” said Harvie. “We deeply appreciate Delta Fire, Delta Police, and
the Delta SchoolDistrict fortheirimportant contributions to creating a supportive environment where students feelempowered to stand against bullying.”
Delta school board chair Joe Muego said studentslove seeing local police andfirefighters unite against bullying at theannual Battleofthe Badges game.
“This event is a powerful reminderof our collective commitment to fosteringa safeand inclusive environment for every student.By wearing pink, we underscore the importanceoftreating oneanother with kindness, respect, andempathy.”
Creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive learningenvironment for all
JOE MUEGO
De lta Sc hool Bo ar d
Unfortunately, bullying continues to affect studentsacross the globe, castinga shadow on theiracademicand social lives The negative impactsof bullying can be far-reaching, leading to anxiety anddepression.
At the Delta School District, we believe that feeling safe, respected and welcome in our schools is key for children to succeed intheir learning.
Our Visionfor2030 is to create aninnovative, inclusive community where all learners belong, and ever yone soars. By fostering a cul-
ture of empathy, respect, andinclusion, our aim is to createa learning environment where ever y studentfeels valued and protected.
It’s important to understandwhat isand isn’t bullying. Calling someone a nameor pushing someoneonce, being rudeor havingan argument with someone isnot bullying. Ofcourse, these behaviors should be addressed but may have different consequencesandinterventions. Bullying iswhen someone repeatedly tries to hurt or humiliate another personon purpose, eitherphysicallyor verbally.
Many schools in Delta organize peer support
programswhere students actas mentors andallies to younger students. These programs can be highly effective inidentifying, addressing and preventing bullying incidents. Promoting positive behaviorthrough schoolwideinitiatives can also make a significant difference. Celebrating acts of kindness, implementing social-emotional learning (SEL)programs, and encouraging collaborative projects can help build a supportive and inclusive schoolcommunity. Additionally, encouraging students to get involved inthedevelopment andimplementationofanti-bullying campaigns can empower them to take ownership
oftheissue andactively contribute to creating a bullying-free environment.
Parents and caregivers play an equally important role inthefight against bullying. We encourage
them to talk to their children about theimportanceoftreating others with kindness. Students andtheir families should feelcomfortable reporting bullying withoutfear of retaliation,either to the schoolprincipalor anonymously through theERASE website.
Pink Shirt Day is a great reminderofthe importanceoftakinga stand against bullying. This year ’s themeis Let Kindness Grow with a focus on nurturinga sense of belonging and cultivatinga community of kindness. Ever y day, each ofus has the power to make this simple choice, bringing usone step closer to achievinga world free from bullying.
DELTA SCHOOLDISTRICT PHOTO
JoeMuegoisboardchair forthe Delta School District.
SE RV ICIN G
Battleofthe Badges unites fora greater cause
JAME S SANDBERG De lta Po lic e De partment
In theheart of our community, a friendly rivalry takescentre ice each year with a purpose fargreater thanthefinal score.
The Delta Police Department andthe Delta Fire Department are once again lacing up their skates for theannual Battle of the Badges,a gamewhere competition meets compassion. This year, on Pink Shirt Day, Feb. 26, we are not just playing for victory- we are playing to let kindness grow.
Bullying doesn’t just
happenin school hallways or online - itaffects lives, confidence, and futures That’s why this event is about more than hockey. It’s about showing 1,900local elementary studentsthat kindness, respect, and teamwork make usall stronger
Partnering withthe Delta School District andtheCity of Delta, we are using this gameas a platform to inspire young minds and cultivatea culture of empathy.
“Let Kindness Grow” reminds usthat small acts - standing upfor a classmate, offeringa helping hand, or simply
choosing words with care - can create a ripple effect of positivity. Just as a seed needs nurturing to flourish, kindness must be encouraged and modeled As police officers andfirefighters, we strive to lead by example, demonstrating that true strength liesin supporting oneanother.
The entire community can participate inthis movement. Make a daily effort to uplift others, we all have a role to play. Because when kindness grows, so does our ability to build a safer, more inclusive Deltafor everyone
What is bullyingand how can we
Bullyingisaformof aggression wherethereisa powerimbalance;the persondoingthe bullying has power overthe person beingvictimized. In additional to anyphysicaltrauma incurred, bullying can resultin serious emotionalproblems,includinganxiety, low self-esteem,ordepression.
Typesofbullying
Physical bullying:usingphysical forceor aggression againstanother person (e.g.,hitting)
Verbal bullying:using words to verbally attack someone (e.g., namecalling)
Social/relational bullying:trying to hurt someonethroughexcludingthem, spreading rumoursor ignoringthem (e.g., gossiping)
Whetheryou’reanavidmoverorjust looking to exploresomethingnew, thisclassisdesigned forthosewhoalreadyhave abasic foundation in movement.Whether you’ve beenrunning, dancing, orpracticingyoga,Pilatesoffers afresh, full-bodychallengetodeepenyourunderstanding of strength,flexibility, andbodyawareness.
Choosea time: Saturday February 22 -12:30pm or2:00pm
March03rd –14th -Wehaveour WelcomeAboard Sale featuring,HollandAmerica,Princess,Norwegian,Royal Caribbeantoname afew.
We havesomethingforeveryone,nowisthetimeto startplanningyournextadventurewithyourExpedia CruisesSouthDeltaconsultant.Askaboutournext event,featuringHollandAmericaLine.
The South Delta Secondar y junior boys’ basketball team made history Feb. 19 becoming the first junior boys’ team at the school to punch their ticket to a provincial championship tournament.
The Sun Devils beat the McMath Wildcats 66-46 at Delta Secondar y to ensure they would be among the six teams from the SouthFraser Championship tournament who wouldqual-
ifyfor the provincials, which star t Feb. 22 at the Langley Events Centre.
“We worked so hard this season I’m so proud of the guys,” said headcoach Nick Kusel.
“We are literally beset w ithinjuries, half the kids have the flu, and wewere down to our last gasp with this game today, sowe had to win.”
The opening quar ter hada lotof pace, with both teams running the floor welland hittinga lotof outside shots.
The Sun Devilsled 14-12after the first
South Delta stepped up their defenceand rebounding, both stalwarts of their success this seasonandupped their advantage to 32-22 at half-time.
It was more of the samein thethird quarter as South Deltaled by 17 at one point, only to see the Wildcats go on a little run tocut the score to 11 – 46-35.
But South Delta would not be denied, outscoring McMath20-11 in the fourth to win by 20.
TenzynKrullled the way with20 points,
while Jaxon Kusel had 17 points. Bentley HalseyBrandt, who has been a forceon the boards all season, had another monster rebounding game.
SDSS star ted the SouthFraser Championships with a 63-43 win over Princess Margaretand then lost 68-37 to Lord Tweedsmuir, setting up the do-or-die game with McMath
SDSS lost to Salish 54-42on Thursday (Feb. 13) to finish sixth at the SouthFraser tournament.
“We hada lotofups anddowns, but we have a lotof characterin our leadership group,” he said.
“This team has the amazing ability when one guy gets hot, the rest of the team jumps in and supports him, sowe are not over relying on one guy, which speaks to the maturity of these kids. We pl ay ha rd on d efence. Wh erev er I go in the Lo we r Ma inland I constantl y ge t commentsfrom other coac hes ‘w e love th e way yo ur gu ys pl ay ,’ so
th at says a lot to me
“We are really committed to bringing the program at South Delta to ahigher level and this is a big step,a big moment for thewhole program. Thisis a culminationof a lotof work.I couldn’t be happierfor the guys.”
The team roster includes Connie Tzonkas, Austin Cooper, Jaxon Kusel, Seito Tsuchiya, MilesCrowle, TenzynKrull, Calum Moenick, Quinn Kirinic, Mike Brunelleand Adam Detlor
JIMKINNEARPHOTO
The South DeltaSun Devilsjuniorboysbasketballteammadehistoryon
66-46win overMcMath Wildcats.
SDSSseniorgirls returnto provincial championships
IAN JACQUE S
ijacque s@ delta-optimis t. c om
The seasonof redemptioncontinuesforthe South Delta Secondar y SunDevils seniorgirls’ basketball team
Afterfalling one game short ofqualifying for theprovincials last year, South Delta was on a missionthis season to ensure that didn’t happen again.
Missionaccomplished asthe SunDevils beat Lord Tweedsmuir 67-55 onFriday night, Feb. 14, at Seaquam Secondary, to finish third at the SouthFraser Championshipsand earn oneofthethree berths out ofthe zoneforthe provincials, which start Feb. 26 at theLangley
Events Centre. South Delta beat Fleetwood Park 73-30 to open the tournamentandlost to thedefending AAAA champs from Seaquam 97-52, intheir second game
“Missing last year was a big deal forusafter the team had qualifieda couple years in a row, so,I know theGrade12s were looking for redemption for sure,” saidheadcoach Roger Millette.
“We played agreat tournament. The two gamesthat wewon were very strong. We had some injuries andtheillness and fluthathas been going around, we had to have our starters,and our bench stepup to getit done forus.”
Millette said strong,
YOUR REAL ESTATESPECIALIST
The South DeltaSunDevilsseniorgirlsbasketball teamisheadingbacktotheprovincialsafterfinishingthirdatthe South FraserChampionships.
veteran leadershipfrom theGrade12sand solid play fromtheGrade11s andthe bench has been keysto the team’s overall
“I thinkthe returning girls have been really, really strong, especially defensively,” he said.
“Jadede Fondaumiere, from last year has stepped upandtakenon allthe toughest defensive assignmentsforus all yearlong anddoing a great job onthe best players ontheother team. Zoe, who does a lotofthe scoring on theoffensive sidefor us, has also stepped up andplayed really great defence Marin Marano and Kyra Millette have also been super consistent forusall year.”
The teamheld a draw party on Wednesday night andthe seniors were celebrated Tuesday night at the schoolinthe team’s last exhibition game against Crofton House.
“We have some goals andtalking about itfor
a while ... we want to stay inthefront sideof thedraw, so winning that first game would be huge for us, so hopefully we can get that done,” he said. “If we are fully healthy and have our full bench, whichI think we willforprovincial week, we have theopportunity to surprisea teamor two hopefully.”
The teamincludes Brynn McKintuck, Kassandra Sharpe, JalenDe Dios, Jadede Fondaumiere, Ryan Assaly, Kyra Millette, Sarah Brotherston, Helena Panteli, Zoe Millette, Payton Kilpatrick, McKenna Tukutau, Marin Marano withassistant coaches Christine Young and Karen Kilpatrick.
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Bob met Susanduringthesummerof1967,whilebothwere teenagelifeguards atCultusLake.Thetwo wereengaged onChristmas Evein1972,which began 51happy years ofmarriageandfurthered their dislikeofbeing apart. Their children,Sarah(Jason)andAndrew (Kimberley)followed.In1989,Boband Susanpurchasedtheirhomeon theOkanaganLake, whichquickly became the baseoftheirfamilylife
Bobfaced hisdiagnosiswithacombinationof strengthandgrace. Hisoptimism persisted ashe remained determinedtobeat the odds.Duringthistime, Bob appreciatedexperiencing themarriages of bothhischildren and becoming a grandfather tofive, twoofwhom bearhisname. Callum,Matthew, Alec,Fraser andSierrawillsadlymissgrowingupwithGrandpa andhismany lifelessons, however arefortunatetohaveknownhim forthetimetheyhad.Inlearning he was becomingagrandfather,Bobremarked hehad arenewed reason tolive Bobwasthankfulforthecare hereceivedover theyears,enablinghimto enjoy theseimportantmilestones.
Bobwas sentimentalanddidn’t wantto say goodbye.Hisfinalphonecallwasto hismother.Heslepthislast nightalongsidehiswife, holding her hand.He cherished hisendingvisitswith his sistersand was gratefultohis sister-in-law, Sandra,for herhelpand especiallyforsupportingSusan. Bobwasagreatman whowastaken toosoon.Hisfamilyis overwhelmedbythelossandappreciates themanykindwishesreceived.Surely,Bobisnowreunited withhis father,who has been waitingfor“Berto”tocomehometoChristinaLakesothey can get backtowork.
Familyandfriendsareinvited togather andremember Bobatthe Vancouver GolfClubat2:00pmonMay2, 2025.Please consider donations totheBC Cancer Foundation.
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