Delta Optimist October 27 2022

HauntingGroveAvenuefor20years

Mistress of Darkness Robyn Hasbach expects to see 1,000 visitors on Halloween night

MARK BOOTH mbooth@delta optimist com

It’s the 20th anniversary of Halloween Horror Delta and Ladner’s very own “Mistress of Darkness” promises it will be one of her best displays yet Robyn Hasbach was a student at Delta Secondary when she decided to combine her stage craft work with her passion for Halloween Little did her parents know what was about to unfold in their family courtyard in the years ahead.

“We were doing a production of the Christmas Carol at the time and they had me working on a tombstone for the third ghost I absolutely loved it Then later that year, I went to Universal Studios for Halloween Horror Nights It inspired me even more so I came home and started doing this,” Hasbach explained “Maybe there is a little pres sure to do a little more each year, but really it’s about making Halloween explode all over my yard”

Hasbach has done just that and invites the community to come to the family home at 5674 Grove Avenue from 6 to 9 p m on Halloween night to see her work and plenty of other spe cial effects too There will be treats for children in costumes and once again she has partnered up with the Delta Firefighters Charitable Society for dona tions

The pandemic resulted in limited

displays the past two years that essen tially could only be observed from the street Now it’s back to full opera tion with plenty of horror throughout the front courtyard area including an animated grave stone projection, a dungeon, various static and animated creatures/bodies including new rotting

“ corpses, ” and two mausoleums

The amount of work Hasbach pours into the display means always booking her holidays in early October

“I have a volunteer who comes out and helps me on Halloween during the day and that’s when most of the stuff gets put up, ” she said “I’m working on

all the infrastructure beforehand”

She has built everything from a witch’s house to an assortment of cof fins and is always on the lookout for post Halloween bargains too like smoke machines

Hasbach expects as many as 1,000 visitors on Monday night

3

Carla Qualtrough among B.C. Sports Hall of Fame’s 2023 inductees

MARK BOOTH PHOTO

Ladner’s Mistress of Darkness Robyn Hasbach invites the community to her Grove Avenue home on Monday night for the 20th edition of Halloween Horror Delta.

Tsawwassen Town Centre Mall October 31, 2022 • 3:30 PM to 5

Plugged

She

the most influential

is being recognized

with disabilities in partic ular And again, I’m just very honoured to have that work recognized and to be amongst this class I’m super humbled”

try and internationally.

Carriers

achievements

the BC Sports Hall of Fame

Delta Liberal MP Carla Qualtrough will be inducted into the builder category in the Class of 2023 for the BC Sports Hall of Fame.

2023 induction class was revealed dur ing a press conference on Tuesday morning.

Joining the honoured member ranks in June of 2023 are six athletes, four builder coaches, two teams, two pioneers, one media member and the winner of the prestigious W A C Bennett Award

“I’m super excited, especially being inducted into the builder cat egory, ” said Qualtrough “I worked very hard as an athlete and I’m very proud of my accomplish ments, but I also worked hard after I retired as an athlete to improve the sport system to make it more inclusive of persons

Qualtrough served as president of the Canadian Paralympic Committee from 2006 to 2010. She is the first Paralympic ath lete elected to Canadian Parliament, served as Minister of Sport and Persons with Disabilities from 2015 to 2017 and is currently a member of the International Paralympic Committee’s Legal and Ethics Committee, a role she has held since 2002

She also served as the IPC’s Legal Officer for the London 2012 Paralympic Games, served as vice president of the Americas Paralympic Committee from 2013 to 2015

As an athlete, she represented Canada in swimming at two Paralympic Games (1988 Seoul, 1992 Barcelona) winning three bronze medals.

Canadian Disability Hall of Fame

It was a ceremony well worth the wait.

Almost a year to the official announce ment, Qualtrough was officially inducted into the Canadian Disability Hall of Fame during a ceremony in Ottawa on Oct 20

The Canadian Disability Hall of Fame

recognizes extraordinary individuals who, through their outstanding work and achievements, have significantly enriched the quality of life for people with disabilities They have also made a pro found difference in their communities, our coun

“It was really heart warming and I was really proud,” Qualtrough told the Optimist of the cer emony in Ottawa “It was an excellent group of people three years of inductees people who have contributed so much to the disabil ity rights movement as athletes, leaders, as thinkers and it was just a really important remind er of all the good work that has been done, but also all the work that we have to keep doing”

Qualtrough said it is very special to be rec ognized by your com munity.

“For me the disability community is my com munity As someone who identifies as hav ing a disability it is just special to have the com munity recognize what I have done and how hard I have worked to try and make life better for people and acknowledge that we have moved the dial on disability rights and disability issues, but again, knowing that there is more work to be done.”

IAN JACQUES ijacques@delta

toopenin comingweeks

SANDOR GYARMATI sgyarmati@delta optimist com

A new 124-room hotel located next to the recently opened casino in South Delta will be opening in the coming weeks.

Located next to the interchange of highways 99 and 17A, Delta Hotels by Marriott Vancouver Delta is slated to open at the end of November or the early part of December

The exact date is to be announced and is based on construction completion and obtaining the necessary permits to open, said Jeff Krivoshen, President, South Fraser Hotel LP, in an update to the Optimist

The hotel is in the finishing stages of construction and workers have been actively loading the furniture, fixtures, and equipment into the building over the course of the last five weeks, he said.

The management team is in place and are starting to interview for all the other supervisory and linelevel positions, he added.

In addition to the approximate 600 positions creat ed by the Cascades Casino complex, the Delta Hotels by Marriott is expected to employ an additional 50-to-60 people

Preparation for hotel guests and training of the team will occur throughout the month of November

The hotel will feature an outdoor pool and hot tub, a fitness centre, meeting space, sundry shop, a Grab ‘n’ Go coffee shop serving Starbucks and easy access to the casino and its associated eateries

The hotel will also feature a separate high-end day spa, named Severine Spa and Wellness that is expected to open in February to the public

The hotel is owned and operated by South Fraser Hotel LP, which is jointly owned by P.R. Hotels Ltd. and Meridian Development Corporation.

Merdian Development Corp is the general contractor for the project, while P.R. Hotels Ltd. will be managing and operating the hotel.

Gateway Casinos & Entertainment celebrated the grand opening of the Cascades Casino Delta on Sept 29.

It features 160,000 square feet of entertainment space with a gaming floor as well as Gateway’s signature restaurants The Buffet, Summit Bar and MATCH Eatery & Public House, which features a multi-season patio and the Bud Room

SANDOR GYARMATI

Delta Hotels by Marriott’s new Ladner destination is

the final stages of construction.

Farewellmeetingfor retiringDeltacouncillors

SANDOR GYARMATI sgyarmati@delta optimist com

It was the final meeting of Delta Council for four members who are stepping away from municipal politics.

The session was held Monday (Oct 24) at the North Delta Centre for the Arts to thank Lois Jackson, Bruce McDonald, Jeannie Kanakos and Dan Copeland for their over 90 years of combined service

The four did not seek re election in the recent municipal election

First elected in 1972 and having served continuously, expect for one term, including 20 as mayor, Coun. Lois Jackson took the opportunity to highlight a few of the many changes and accomplishments since she first took office.

Also thanking service clubs and vol unteers for helping make Delta a better place, Jackson said the four new coun cillors need to ensure they represent the wishes of the people who elected them

Coun. Jeannie Kanakos, first elected in 2005 and serving continuously

expect for one term, thanked Delta staff for their outstanding work, including current Mayor George Harvie when he was the city’s manager She described those who worked at Municipal Hall as a collaborative and creative team

First elected in 1987, McDonald, who served nine terms, described Delta as the “best part of the best part of the best part of the world” and he still believes it.

Also reflecting on many of the improvements the community has seen through the years, he said he leaves content that the new council has a plan to enhance the city in a fiscally responsible manner

Also thanking his family, Copeland, who was elected in 2018, offered con gratulations to those who were elected, noting they are also trying to make Delta a better community.

Re elected Mayor George Harvie and councillors Dylan Kruger and Alicia Guichon will be joined by newcomers Rod Binder, Daniel Boisvert, Jennifer Johal and Jessie Dosanjh

The inaugural meeting of the new council will be held Nov 7

SANDOR GYARMATI PHOTO

First elected in 1972, Lois Jackson, pictured with city manager Sean McGill, attended her final council meeting on Monday

Poppy campaigns start Friday in South Delta

MARK BOOTH mbooth@delta optimist com

Keep an eye out for taggers and donation boxes throughout the com munity as South Delta’s Royal Canadian Legion Branches launch their annual poppy campaigns on Friday (Oct. 28), leading up to Remembrance Day (Nov 11).

“The Tsawwassen Branch 289 of the Legion has conducted the annual poppy campaign in our area since 1994, and the local population and businesses have been consistently generous with donations to our Poppy Trust Fund,” said Legion president Ken Harvey “This fund is used to assist veterans or their dependents in need; programs to assist veterans; bursaries for veterans’ family members who need financial assistance for further educa tion

“It provides prizes for our annual poster, literary and video school con tests We have also donated money for equipment to local care homes which have veterans as residents, and to our local hospital foundation”

Meanwhile, Gerry Bramhill has coor dinated the Ladner Royal Canadian Legion Branch 61’s poppy campaign for a number of years He works with about

14 dedicated volunteers who help set up the poppy trays for businesses throughout the community, as well as schools More than 40,000 poppies are distributed each year

“We have somewhere around 200 or so store fronts where we leave poppy trays in Then we have the cadet squad rons were they will be doing tagging at various locations on the weekends and Friday nights,” explained Bramhill. “We also have people who sign up to be taggers and they are the best. We have some folks that take a two hour shift every day and they never miss one.

“We do everything possible to check with the managers to make sure we are not impeding on any areas where their stores might be very busy or if they don’t like taggers right at the front entrance”

Bramhill added that all proceeds from the Ladner poppy campaign goes into a special trust fund that sees thou sands of dollars distributed throughout the community.

Wearing a poppy during the Remembrance period honours Canada’s fallen soldiers and veterans, and both legions are encouraging everyone to wear a poppy to remember and pay respect to veterans still with us today, he said.

GYARMATI

The City of Delta is once again ranked among the “Rattiest Cities” in British Columbia, but at least it isn’t in the top 10.

That’s according to the Orkin Canada’s latest rankings of cit ies across the country, which the company determines by the number of rat and mice treat ments performed from Aug. 1, 2021 through July 31, 2022.

The ranking includes both residential and commercial treat ments

Of the top 20 communities in B.C., Delta ranked 11th overall.

The company also uses its rankings to remind homeowners and business owners to take pre cautions to help keep rodents out

“As pandemic fears wane, and Canadian cities are back in busi ness, food sources are abundantly available in urban and commer cial areas again for rats and mice

With food more abundantly available in commercial areas, some of the aggressive behaviours among rats and mice that were noted during the lockdowns, such as cannibalism, ‘street fights’ and territorialism, will likely lessen. However, with population growth,

there will also be increased rodent activity and sightings,” the company said in a news release.

Simple tips for property owners include trimming trees, eliminating any moisture sources, inspecting both the inside and outside properties for rodent droppings, looking for possible

entry points outside the home and sealing all cracks larger than one-quarter of an inch, as well as keeping properties clean inside and out

The Optimist over the previous couple of years covered the rat and mice issue in the community, being told by another pest control company that factors such as cli mate change and rodents being displaced due to development resulted in an increase in complaints

A local auto mechanic noted many vehicles in the cooler months show evidence of the rodents scurrying around under engine hoods looking for a warn place It can range from little footprints and droppings, chewed wiring to full nests inside The damage can run into the thousands of dollars

Metro Vancouver doesn’t have a coordinated program when it comes to rats, leaving individual municipalities to deal with them

Five B.C cities ranked in the top 10 on Orca’s national list with Vancouver ranked second, only behind Toronto which ranked first overall. Also in the national top 10 are Burnaby (3), Kelowna (4), Victoria (7) and Richmond (8).

optimist

Safetyreview

PUBLISHER Pierre Pelletier ppelletier@delta-optimist com

EDITOR: Ian Jacques ijacques@delta

SPORTS: Mark Booth mbooth@delta-optimist

REPORTERS Sandor Gyarmati sgyarmati@ delta-optimist

Mark Booth mbooth@delta-optimist

PHOTOGRAPHER: Jim Kinnear jimgkinnear@netscape.net

DIGITAL SALES MANAGER Marianne LaRochelle mariannel@glaciermedia ca

SALES REPRESENTATIVES: John Gallinger jgallinger@ delta-optimist com Ruth VanBruksvoort rbruks@ delta-optimist com Lee Fruhstorfer lfruhstorfer@delta optimist com

SALES SUPPORT: Linda Calendino lcalendino@ delta-optimist com

DISTRIBUTION: Kristene Murray 604 946 5171 kmurray@glaciermedia ca Roya Sarwary rsarwary@delta optimist com

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Sometimes the news lands in our lap here at the Optimist, and that has happened quite literally twice in the past few weeks

Mid morning last Thursday (Oct 20) an awful smashing sound could be heard outside the Optimist office on 47A Ave and Delta Street. For the second time in as many weeks, a serious motor vehicle collision took place right outside our door (see page 10 for story)

Our staff rushed out to assist and called 911 The fire department, para medics and police soon arrived on scene.

Both vehicles were smashed up, the drivers both shaken up, but thankfully did not appear to be injured

In late September, a truck travelling at a high rate of speed smashed into a parked vehicle right out front of our office Once again, a lot of damage to the vehicles, but no serious injuries

Both of these incidents involved high rates of speed and driver in attention, and it prompted a call to the City of Delta’s engineering department by reporter Sandor Gyarmati to ask for a safety review of the intersection

Director of Engineering Steven Lan got back to us right away, thanking us for bringing this matter to their attention and a safety review would be undertaken

I think a stop light should be installed at this intersection Currently there is a controlled cross walk signal, but many times even pushing the light to cross you are taking your life into your own hands.

Drivers are tearing down the street at high rates of speed. Turning right or left off 47A or Delta Street you often encoun ter a blind spot as parked vehicles on all sides of the street block your views mak ing it very tricky to see the on coming traffic This was likely the case in this lat est collision and as I said, speed is always an issue

I’m thankful that in both cases there were no serious injuries I’m thankful a safety review will take place Hopefully something will be done We might not be so fortunate the next time a collision comes knocking on our door

we ask people to come to Canada, we should make staying here a little easier

For the past few months, I have been teaching international stu dents marketing as part of their Master’s degree program It’s been fascinating meeting people from around the world who have chosen Canada as the place they want to develop their career, and for many, plant roots and call Canada home after their studies

I’ve met people from all corners of the world India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Brazil, Columbia, Nigeria, Jamacia, Nicaragua, South Korean, Philippines and more. They are very bright, hardworking people with amazing backgrounds.

I’ve had lawyers, educators, engineers of all stripes, mar keters, government officials, bankers, accountants and a host of other professions in my class. Some are likely more qualified than I am to be teaching the class! I had the Dean of a college in Brazil in my class. No pressure on me at all

But there’s a few things that puzzle me I am no expert on immigration requirements and restrictions, I can only go by what I see and hear I know there was a restriction on stu dent visas that only allowed for 20 hours of paid work per week, which has recently been lifted Why? Because we need the workers

It’s hard for these people to come from afar, find afford able accommodations and take on a full study load while trying to make ends meet with a part time job What’s worse is the lack of acknowl edgement of their skills

At the beginning of the term, I ask everyone where is home, what’s your undergrad and what have you done with your career

Many offer where they work in Canada now that they are here. And that’s the part I find, quite frankly, a little embarrassing

I’ve had lawyers tell me they were selling cell phones at the PNE I’ve had people who worked at the UN tell me they were working reception in a medical office Have you ever heard of a doctor driving a cab? Me too

Not that there’s anything wrong with those jobs or the people who work them, they are a valuable part of our society. But when we need these highly skilled people, when we ask them to come to Canada to help us, yet those jobs are unfilled because we take so long to recognize credentials or meet our stan dards, it’s frustrating

I hope they stick around. They are wonderful people who will only make our coun try better For everyone

The Delta Heritage Society is pleased to celebrate

years of the Delta Optimist

visit us at the Douglas J Husband Discovery Centre

photos that help tell Delta’s story?

in becoming a DHS member?

at info@deltaheritagesociety

Boat

fisherman

Wilson

Brunswick Point with the Swenson

candidatewiththesamebrush

Editor:

It’s nice to see the Optimist continue its proud tradition of punching down by sneering at the efforts of us inde pendent candidates (Delta Optimist, editorial, Oct 20)

I can’t speak for my fellow candi dates, but what I was doing all sum mer was helping to care take my sick mother, who died on Aug 20, just three weeks before the filing deadline. Meanwhile, I was frantically applying for every job under creation to replace the one that had unexpectedly ended in March, so that I could continue to pay my rent

So, yes, I did file for candidacy at the last minute, when I finally decided that offering different ideas to the debate would be better than doing nothing

I had hoped that someone much better prepared would come forward, but no one did. How foolish of me to think that acting instead of complain ing was a good thing. And yes, I did miss one all candidates’ meeting in North Delta, after having already gone up there for four other events I have very limited access to a car

When is the last time you took the bus out to farthest North Delta, Mr

Jacques? Did it leave you with time to meet your work deadlines?

Funnily enough, I haven’t seen any members of Mr. Harvie’s slate on the bus either Despite the truly terrible timing and the fact that I got a high pressure contract job right after I’d declared my candidacy, I created a website, opened a campaign account, designed and wrote flyers and lawn signs and ads, wrote speeches, attended two all candidates’ meet ings and a housing forum, met with firefighters and housing advocates and environmentalist groups, did bios and top issues pieces for the Optimist and North Delta Reporter, attended Zooms with the Port Authority and TransLink (among others), and took around hun dreds of flyers And that’s just the start of it

I was terrified and overwhelmed, and doing this pretty much on my own, with almost no money and no idea how to go about it So if what you really mean by “Were they serious about this?” is “Were they privileged enough to do this the way George Harvie did?” and I’m pretty sure that is what you mean then, yeah, no I didn’t know we were supposed to be

Pamela Swanigan

History made on election night

Editor:

I would like to congratulate Mayor George Harvie and his slate (Achieving for Delta) for their victory in council and school board.

Their success will be written in his tory as the first diverse and inclusive council ever elected in our city of Delta. Delta voters deserve thanks and

recognition for making it possible

I am confident that based on last four years performance, George Harvie’s open, progressive leadership will continue to make our great community a safer, harmonious, enjoyable, liveable city, we can all be proud of

Gian Sihota

Hiring people with developmental disabilities is good foryourbusiness

Editor:

I served as a Lieutenant with the Queen’s Own Rifles regiment in the Second World War

In 1945, in the Rhine Valley, Germany, I was injured by an anti per sonnel mine explosion, resulting in the loss of my left leg below the knee

When I returned home from the war, I joined The War Amps and have been a member ever since. This Association was started by First World War amputee veterans to help each other adapt to their new reality as amputees

In 1975, The War Amps established the Child Amputee (CHAMP) Program, which provides young amputees with financial assistance for artificial limbs and peer support from fellow ampu tees. The veteran members wanted to

ensure that young amputees have the vital support they need, and it makes me very happy to see it’s still going strong today I also take great comfort in knowing that Champs will continue to move the organization forward and keep spread ing the message of remembrance, even after I no longer can. Through The War Amps Operation Legacy program, Champs have taken up the torch of remembrance to commemorate the sacrifices of those who served and con tinue to serve I can say with pride that the legacy and sacrifices my comrades and I have left behind will be remembered long into the future

Charlie Jefferson, 98 Member of The War Amps

Please join us in celebrating Disability Employment Awareness Month (DEAM) this October

We would like to extend our thanks to Emterra Environmental and all the other inclusive employers who hire people with developmental disabilities in our community

If you’d like to learn more about the benefits of hiring a person with a developmental disability at your business, please call DCLS Solutions Employment Services at 604.946.9655 We work with employers to find great employment matches free of charge. Or, to learn more about DEAM, visit www.supportedemployment.ca/deam

604.946.9508 www.dcls.ca

CitytolookattrafficsafetyonLadnerstreet

mended

The City of Delta is going to take a closer look at traffic safety along 47A Avenue in Ladner following another collision that apparently involved high speeds

Last Thursday (Oct 20), an east bound car on 47A Avenue collided with a vehicle turning right onto 47A Avenue from Delta Street. The collision resulted in heavy damage to both cars and air bags deployed but, fortunately, nobody had to be taken away by ambulance

On Sept. 28, a pickup truck travel ling westbound on 47A crashed into a parked vehicle on the right side of the road by the same intersection, also causing very heavy damage to both vehicles.

On May 28, 2021, down the street at 47A Avenue at 51 Street, an eastbound car turning right onto 51 Street from 47A Avenue hit a pedestrian at the crosswalk The injured woman was taken to hospital.

Following Thursday’s collision, City of Delta Engineering Director Steven Lan told the Optimist that the safety concerns, including speed on 47A Avenue, will be on the agenda at the next meeting of the city’s Transportation Technical Committee.

He also said an evaluation will be

undertaken

Meeting monthly, the committee dis cusses emerging transportation safety issues based on staff and community input.

Safety concerns, including vehicular speeds, at various residential streets, busy main roadways and intersections throughout the community are on the agenda

The committee includes staff from engineering and community plan ning and development, as well as Delta Police, the school district and the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure.

Engineering staff usually further analyze the traffic issues and report back whether additional traffic calm ing measures for the sites are recom

Questions that could be raised after the latest incident on 47A Avenue include whether the intersection at Delta Street needs to be upgraded to include a full red light, or, should the vehicle speed limit along 47A Avenue, between Arthur Drive and River Road West, be reduced to 30 km/h? Are speed bumps even an option? Are there too many blind spots at the corners?

Based on the high traffic volumes, as well as proximity to Ladner Village and Delta Secondary School, changes could be coming to enhance pedestrian and vehicle safety in the area

Residents last year also raised safety concerns regarding the pedestrian activated crosswalk on Arthur Drive near the McKee Seniors’ Centre, as well as the intersection at Elliot Street and Ladner Trunk Road

Meanwhile, the city is working on its own Vision Zero strategy Already in place in other communities throughout North America, the strategy’s goal is to reduce serious traffic accidents and fatalities.

One of the key differences between Vision Zero and traditional approaches to road safety is that traffic collisions are considered preventable, view ing safety as a shared responsibility between system designers, policy mak ers and road users

SANDOR GYARMATI sgyarmati@delta optimist com

IAN JACQUES PHOTO

Optimist office last Thursday

Safetyupgradesfor nineintersections

SANDOR GYARMATI sgyarmati@delta optimist com

Crosswalk, streetlight and traffic signal improvements are coming to several locations throughout the City of Delta.

The city has issued a request for bids for a contractor to construct sidewalks, crosswalks and traffic lights to enhance pedestrian safety and accessibility at nine locations

The work includes the installation of approximately 260 square metres of sidewalk, 200 linear metres of bar rier curb and gutter, three sets of traffic lights, five sets of crosswalk lights, one set of pathway lighting, as well as instal lation of street lighting and required retrofit upgrades.

The locations include: Cliveden Avenue at Eaton Way, 53A Street at 10 Avenue, 48 Avenue at Garry Street/ Bridget Street, 115 Street at 75A Avenue, 112 Street at Devon Gardens Elementary, 1 Avenue at 55A Street, Arthur Drive and Sacred Heart School, pathway lighting between Nordel Way and Dunlop Road and improvements at the intersection at River Road and Ferry Road.

Most of the works are to be complet

ed no later than Dec 31, 2023

The work at 112th Street at Devon Gardens Elementary and the Arthur Drive and Sacred Heart Elementary work should be completed three months earlier.

The request for tenders notes that the work hours may be limited if significant complaints are raised by surrounding residents and there is no other way to satisfy their concerns

SANDOR GYARMATI PHOTO

The tender package for the nine sites does not include improvements also planned for several other locations, as the others will be part of a sepa rate request for proposals

NewplazacomingtoLadnerVillage

SANDOR GYARMATI sgyarmati@delta optimist com

A new public plaza will be developed at a prominent entrance to Ladner Village

The city has issued a request for proposals for detailed design services for the Stokes Cullis Plaza at 5084 5094 47A Ave, located at the corner of Elliot Street, Arthur Drive and Ladner Trunk Road.

The design is expected to represent the values and key features of the area

“This right of way is to be developed into a vibrant public plaza at this promi nent location at the entrance to Ladner Village, serving to

welcome both residents and visitors alike to the unique setting and experiences

Acknowledgement of the historic fishing and farming industries which were key aspects to the establishment of the community is desired, along with creation of a rec ognizable entrance to Ladner Village The project incor porates public seating and gathering opportunities,” the request for proposals explains

The city also notes it had already retained an external design firm to develop numer ous concepts for the plaza based on themes relevant to the Ladner Village, while also drawing inspiration from the planning work associated with

the Ladner Village waterfront

“Through consultation, the theme referencing the indus trial aspect of the fishing and farming industries was identi fied as most impactful with the use of large scale timbers for seating elements and met als for other plaza features

Considerable work has been undertaken to create a con ceptual design, and a number of decisions have been made with respect to features desir able and otherwise. The City of Delta does not wish to revisit these choices. Instead it is seeking a qualified design team to complete the detailed design, prepare tender ready drawings and specifications, and oversee the project dur

ing construction,” the request for proposal adds

The building at the corner was redeveloped last year, involving the partial demoli tion and renovation of an existing commercial structure

The two storey building was built in 1907 but was not included in Delta’s Urban Heritage Inventory or the Delta Heritage Register due to past alterations and additions.

The Stokes and Cull build ing served as a butcher shop under various owners until the early 1970s.

The heritage look was restored with the later addi tion removed

The city also entered into a statutory right of way agree

ment with the owner, the Lowe family, to allow the development of the plaza over a portion of the prop erty where the addition was removed.

Initial concept plans for the new plaza were then pre pared that included oversized, boldly coloured planters to act as a visual anchor to welcome visitors One of the planters would be higher and ringed with wooden seating, while a lower planter’s edge would provide additional seating

The planters would be illu minated in the evening

An earlier staff report noted that the publicly accessible plaza was estimated to cost approximately $200,000.

MikeStarkoChallenge raises$37,000forcharity

MARK BOOTH mbooth@delta optimist com

Mike Starko must have been smiling down on the Beach Grove Golf Club on Oct 17

It was back in April when the lifetime Tsawwassen resident was tragically killed in a cycling accident doing his regular weekly ride on his hometown roads The 57 year old father of three was not only an avid triathlete, but gave up his time volunteering in a number of local organizations over the years.

Months later, a couple of Starko’s for mer South Delta Secondary classmates approached the family about doing something in his memory.

The Mike Starko Challenge was launched that saw participants begin a month long challenge of recording km of any activity that creates track able distances Pledges were collected and donated to his favourite charity Right to Play, a non profit organization which educates and empowers children around the world to overcome adversity through the power of play

The campaign went better than any one expected, reflecting just how much Starko meant to so many.

Fifty two individuals or teams partici

pated, combining to travel nearly 9,000 kilometers and generating more than 250 donations, adding up to $28,000

The sold out Oct 17 gala at Beach Grove culminated the 30 day event With proceeds from a silent auction, another $9,000 was generated, adding up to more than $37,000 being donated to Right to Play

“I am really overwhelmed at the sup port we ’ ve received and the enthusiasm we had throughout this whole cam paign It really just feels like the perfect way to continue my dad’s legacy and on top of honouring him, we have had the opportunity to be involved and help an amazing organization,” said his daugh ter Emma

“It’s also been really cool to see how many people have gotten active and had a positive change in their own personal life since this started and have really been inspired by my dad, which is really amazing to see in action We had so many activities varying from swimming, running, biking, handstand walking, water skiing, you name it people were very creative and had some awesome outfits/challenges in the process ”

To learn more about the Mike Starko Challenge visit www mikestarkochal lenge.com.

Join the fun online for the SOLD OUT Moonlight Gala by bidding on amazing auction items!

Delta Hospital and Community Health Foundation (DHCH Foundation) is inviting the entire community to participate online in their ElTropicana Havana Moonlight Gala The in person event on Saturday, November 5th is SOLD OUT, but you can still participate by donating online or by bidding on items in the online auction

The auction will open onTuesday, November 1, 2022 at noon and bidding will continue until Saturday, November 5, 2022 at 9:05pm

You can bid on over 70 exciting auction items including:

Front row tickets to see Kevin Hart on Friday, December 9, 2022

A60 minute helicopter experience with Sky Helicopters

Achoice of one of three pieces of high end fitness equipment from Tower Fitness

And much more!

Check the DHCH Foundation website for all the current information and links to bid, starting on November 1, 2022 wwwdhchfoundation ca

This

Delta Hospital has one of the busiest day surgery sites in the Fraser Health region, with an average of 7,900 surgeries and endoscopies being performed each year With support from the community, DHCH Foundation is able to purchase equipment to upgrade and refresh the surgical services department including items such as state of the art surgical visualization systems, ACLinstruments, arthroscopy sets, glidescopes and other immediate needs

STARKO FAMILY PHOTO

The Mike Starko Challenge was held in memory of the lifetime Tsawwassen resident who was tragically killed in a cycling accident back in April.

Community 23rdMoonlightGala fundraisersoldout

Delta Hospital and Community Health Foundation (DHCH Foundation) is pleased to announce its 23rd Annual Moonlight Gala will be back in person on Saturday, Nov. 5 at Tsawwassen Springs

Funds raised will be dedicated to Delta Hospital’s busy surgical services department Delta Hospital has one of the busiest day sur gery sites in the Fraser Health region, with an average of 7,900 surger ies and endoscopies being performed each year.

With support from the community, DHCH Foundation is able to purchase equipment to upgrade and refresh the surgical services depart ment including items

such as state of the art surgical visualization systems, ACL instru ments, arthroscopy sets, glidescopes and other immediate needs.

This year ’ s sold out Gala will be an exciting evening set to the theme of El Tropicana Havana and will bring together more than 300 business, community, government and healthcare leaders Even though the in per son event is sold out, the community can still par ticipate in the Moonlight Gala by donating online or by taking part in their online auction (opening Nov 1) Visit dhchfoun dation.ca for all the cur rent information

“We would like to thank our Gala com mittee, led by co chairs, Don Sangster and Lois

Wilkinson, for work ing tirelessly to cre ate an extraordinary evening to remember,” says Pam Paton, board chair, Delta Hospital and Community Health Foundation. “After a two year hiatus, we are excited to see our com munity of supporters back in person to sup port the Delta Hospital Campus of Care”

Delta Hospital and Community Health Foundation is honoured to bestow special recog nition to the Aune and Greatrex Families as this year ’ s recipient of the Moonlight Gala Tribute Award sponsored by Port of Vancouver

“We are pleased to have the opportunity to celebrate the trans formative generosity of

the Aune and Greatrex families,” says Lisa Hoglund, executive director, Delta Hospital and Community Health Foundation “Their incredible support has had an enormous impact on healthcare in our community”

The 23rd Annual Moonlight Gala is already gearing up to be another successful year thanks to generous event sponsors, attendees, donors, and volunteers

Submitted by DHCH Foundation

NatureNotes:Grassland set-asides provide much-needed habitat for breeding birds

CONNOR HAWEY Delta Farmland & Wildlife Trust

It’s May in Delta and I’m standing in a field along Boundary Bay as the sun is rising, keeping watch for any bird I can hear or see A Northern Harrier is hovering just above the field scout ing for voles, a Common Yellowthroat (warbler) is calling, perched on top of a blade of grass, and Barn Swallows are whirling around overhead catch ing insects

This particular field is a grassland set aside a field that was planted by farmers with a mix of grasses and left to rest for up to six years These fields resemble the native grasslands which were part of the historic Fraser River delta ecosystem on the Delta lowlands

To provide habitat for wildlife and promote soil health for agricultural fields, Delta Farmland & Wildlife Trust (DF&WT) offers a cost sharing partnership with farm ers to plant grassland set asides Since 1993, more than 14,000 acres of

rotational set asides have been established, play ing an important role for wintering wildlife includ ing Barn Owls and Great Blue Herons

During the spring of 2022, I surveyed 12 grass land set aside fields in Delta and Richmond to see how these habitats are being used by breed ing birds I observed 47 species using the habitat during their migration,

for foraging and for set ting up breeding territo ries.

One of the birds which I saw in every field and on every day of sur veying, was the Barn Swallow Barn Swallows nest in structures such as barns or houses and the tall grass habitat provid ed by set asides is their ideal foraging habitat

Since the 1980s, the population of Barn

Swallows in Canada has rapidly declined, and one of the contributing factors is likely the loss of breeding and forag ing habitat Partnerships between the DF&WT and local farmers which promote stewardship programs, including grassland set asides, are crucial to providing habi tat for our local popula tions of birds, including Barn Swallows

Grow your Business with a Health Spending Account

Jeffrey Greenfeld, CFP®, EPC, RIS Investment Advisor, iA Private Wealth Inc

October is small business month across Canada Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are key drivers for local economies and Ladner is no exception However, many businesses are having trouble hiring staff According to a new Bank of Canada survey, 42% of Canadian businesses are reporting labour shortages

Recent Statistics Canada data shows job vacancies climbed to 957,500 in the first quarter of 2022; the highest quarterly number on record As an employer, can you relate? Are you struggling to hire as well as retain qualified staff? Besides offering rigorous training programs, small business owners also need to be able to provide health benefits for their employees Health plans that don’t break the bank

The Solution? A Health Spending Account (HSA) A Health Spending Account allows small businesses to build a benefits program that works for their business AND the needs of their employees Here is why you, as an employer, should consider an HSA:

✓ All eligible medical expenses are tax deductible

✓ Total control

plan costs

✓ Can be used to supplement current benefit plans

retenti

increases

CONNOR HAWEY PHOTO

A grassland set-aside at dawn, June 2022

Community

AMC series comes to Ladner

The grounds around the Ladner Leisure Centre and municipal hall were transformed into a fictional Pennsylvania college last week for the filming of the AMC series Straight Man, starring Bob Odenkirk, known for his role as small time criminal attorney Saul Goodman in Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul. The new series is being shot around Metro Vancouver into early December.

MARK BOOTH PHOTO

LIFESTYLES

Photo club welcomes Gerri Jones

Delta Photo Club pres ents Creating Still Life and Food Images in a Small Space with Buffalo photographer Gerri Jones.

The presentation will be available on Zoom from 7:30 to 9:30 p m on Wednesday, Nov 2

It will cover everything from props, backgrounds and surfaces, lighting and setting up in a small tabletop space in your home, using natural light

The subject of still life is a creative endeavour from start to finish and learning to use natural light effectively indoors is the first step to creat ing some beautiful and dramatic still life compo sitions This is the perfect project for winter months indoors to keep your cre ativity fresh and fun.

Jones has been a featured speaker/ instructor at regional camera conferences including Mike Moats Macro Conventions, Hazel Meredith’s Creative Photography Conferences, New England Camera Club Council (NECCC) Photo Conference and Out of Chicago Conferences See more at: www.gerri jonesphotography com

The Zoom link for the workshop will be sent in the afternoon of Nov 2

To attend this work shop, become a member of the Delta Photo Club by filling out the mem bership form at delta photoclub com/member sign up form

You can also attend as a guest by sending an email transfer of $10 to treasurer@deltapho toclub com by noon on Nov 2 Please include your name, email address, and Club affilia tion with the transfer

Submitted

Event to report?

Contact Ian at ijacques@delta-optimist com or 604 998 3616

ArtistbeginsresidencyatScienceWorld

Science World has launched its Artist in Residence (AiR) program at the iconic dome featuring a Tsawwassen artist

Bettina Harvey, a multidisciplinary artist, whose work of late has been focused on the microscopic world in her own backyard, is the first artist as a part of this program.

In her artist residency, Harvey will be responding to her backyard biodiversity study by engaging in scientific and community dia logue and expanding her current practice. By drawing primarily from her microbial obser vations, she will explore themes of intercon nection, perception, empathy, and resilience

“I’m thrilled to be the inaugural artist in Artist in Residence at Science World and look forward to working together with the organization to build out this program for future artists,” said Harvey “Through this partnership, I’ll be able to work with brilliant scientists and have access to other resources I may not have otherwise As a part of AiR, I’ll be creating a variety of new works, such as large scale drawings of microscopic life forms, to explore the connection of how the smallest of organisms play a role in our world”

Science World’s AiR program aims to connect the realms of art and science in an engaging, informal way. The AiR program continues the rich history of art and science informing one another as process based practices are often led by inquisitiveness about the world around us

Harvey will also be connecting with Dr Margo Moore, Professor Emerita and micro

biologist, to explore her scientific work as an inspiration for the residency

As a part of this program, artists get a $3,000 stipend and space at Science World to work as they create their art pieces Members of the public will get the opportunity to watch the artist at work when they are on site and engage with them as they explore their proj ect Artists who are interested in applying for

future access to the program can email art@ scienceworld ca for more information Science World visitors can get an up close look at the artist at work on the First Floor Atrium at Science World, 1455 Quebec St in Vancouver.

It is free with admission from now until Feb. 27, 2023 with the artist onsite at Science World on different days until Dec 15

Enjoy Canadian Celtic folk music at next Sunday @3

The next Sunday @3 concert series at Ladner United Church will feature Canadian Celtic folk music

Blackthorn will perform on Sunday, Nov 6 at 3 p m

They are a Canadian Celtic folk band that saw its inception back in 1989 with a group of musicians who found a common interest in a music that wasn’t all that common in Vancouver at the time

Early highlights include per forming at Vancouver’s seminal Celtica Festival in 1990 along with De Dannan and Andy M Stewart and performing and recording with the World Champion SFU Pipe Band

Since then, the group has travelled a long road through the streets of traditional and contemporary Celtic music, per

forming concerts at festivals and Highland Games throughout Western Canada and the Pacific Northwest.

Blackthorn features four tal

ented musicians, three of whom share lead vocals, bringing a refreshing diversity of character to the group ’ s polished sound and all four contribute a mastery

of a colourful variety of instru ments The results of their col lective musical backgrounds, skills and experience are witnessed in the high calibre, entertaining performances they consistently deliver to audiences of all ages

Blackthorn’s extensive rep ertoire is rooted in the musi cal traditions of Scotland and Ireland as well as the folk music of English and French Canada Their repertoire has expanded to include creative original compo sitions that reflect the influences of these traditions From lively jigs and reels, to songs with rousing choruses and heart wrenching airs and ballads, they bring the music to life with their luscious harmonies and com plex instrumentation.

SUBMITTED

Church.

IAN JACQUES

ijacques@delta optimist com

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Bettina Harvey, a multidisciplinary artist, whose work of late has been focused on the microscopic world in her own backyard in Tsawwassen, is the first artist as a part of Artist in Residence program at Science World.

Lifestyles

New show at Gallery 1710

LAUREL JOHNSON Contributing Writer

The South Delta Artists’ Guild has found new inspiration and is ready for the reveal in its new show Foundations and Inspirations, on display from Oct 28 to Nov 20

The show is based on photographs submitted by local artists The photos have been hanging in the studio and the artists have been tasked to choose one or two to paint.

As many as five people have signed up for each painting.

Come and view the results at Gallery 1710 in Tsawwassen during operating hours Friday to Sunday between noon and 4 p m

Have you ever had the desire to paint?

Live artist’s demonstrations are planned Nov. 5 and 6 from noon to 4 p m

Nov. 5 topics include: the fascinat ing process of painting a pastel with Catherine Sheppard; acrylic pour ing producing intricate and colourful paintings featuring Mary Ellen Bullock; scratch art, a process beginning with black paper, demonstrated by Doris Wright; and watercolor, one of the more difficult mediums, shown by Marlene Strain

On Sunday, Nov 6, featured artists will demonstrate watercolor on rice paper with Eileen Fong; mono print painting with Judith Turner; mixed media, using a diverse amount of paper and fabric with Roxsane Teirnan; and Lea Price producing whimsical sculp tures made of polymer clay, which is baked in the oven. Price will also be showing ‘gallery ready’ framing, using recommended hardware and time hon ored techniques

Gallery 1710 is located at 1710 56th St , beside the South Delta Recreation Centre in Tsawwassen.

IMAGE SUBMITTED

Artist Monica Burrow’s ‘Sailors Delight’ is part of the new South Delta Artists’ Guild show at Gallery 1710 in Tsawwassen.

“If you ’ re a sinner and you know it clap your hands!” Now, before you conclude that this pastor has fallen off his theological rocker, allow me to explain why I would even entertain the idea of these words being sung to the tune of the classic children’s nursery rhyme The Bible clearly teaches that sin is spiritually deadly The Apostle Paul tells us, “The wage of sin is death” (Romans 6: 23a) Sins alienate us from God and other human beings, and are there fore nothing to celebrate or feel good about. But there is a joy to be found as a sinner, and it is a cause for celebration What might that be? God loves sinners so much that Jesus came into the world to rescue us from sin’s deadly con sequences: “but God

proves his love for us in that while we were still sinners Christ died for us”(Romans 5:8) That we are sinners is an ines capable spiritual real ity that we cannot hide from God In fact, trying to deny our sin is a grave spiritual error. As St. John tells us: “If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If

Sinner

we confess our sins, he who is faithful and just will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 8:8 10) God’s mercy and forgiveness of sin is the channel for God’s grace, and God’s grace is the foundation of Christian life, and the source of Christian joy The reformer Martin Luther, spoke of the “joyous exchange” that happened on the cross when Christ exchanged his righteousness for our sin, so that God would judge us not on the basis of our sins, but on the basis of Jesus’ righteous ness Such an incredible act of divine compas sion was carried out for the sake of sinners That God loves sinners is an amazing thing to con template indeed. I am glad that God loves this one!

KinVillageisbringing backthejoyoffood

IAN JACQUES ijacques@delta optimist com

KinVillage in Tsawwassen is taking pureed food to the next level

Seniors who have trouble swallowing often don’t eat as well, so with food that looks like the “real thing,” perhaps this will change

Long term care clinical research lead Janice Sorenson can speak to the ben efits of this preparation.

KinVillage CEO Dan Levitt and his team provide a combination of housing (long term care, assisted living and inde pendent living), health services and pro grams for older adults in the community

“We work closely with Fraser Health and its leadership,” says Levitt “Together, we want to set a new narrative on what long term care is, which includes cre ative and innovative new ways of doing great things for seniors.”

Part of this innovation includes the promotion of food equity so that no mat ter a resident’s age, health or ability, they feel valued and seen when it comes to their nutrition and meals

“Food is all about dignity,” he added “We want to make sure that anyone sit ting down to eat in our dining room feels equal to their fellow diners.”

To support this goal, KinVillage has implemented an initiative for individuals with dysphagia a condition that causes swallowing difficulties, which can lead to coughing or choking when eating or drinking.

“It’s something that we see in individ uals who have neurological conditions, such as dementia or Parkinson’s disease, or who maybe have suffered a stroke,” he

added

For these residents, food must be served liquefied or as purees to make it safe for consumption, but can also make it less palatable or visually appealing

“We wanted to make pureed food more appetizing, so we ’ re now shaping and re forming textured food into solid forms, so they resemble the different pieces of the dish Effectively, the steak looks like steak, carrots look like carrots, and potatoes look like potatoes,” said Levitt.

He and the KinVillage team have seen immediate positive impacts.

“One staff member actually returned a plate saying, ‘This is not for the person I’m feeding they can’t eat solid food’ That’s how good it looks like Another person who couldn’t feed themselves, can now feed themselves And others who used to struggle to eat, are clearing their plates,” he added

Janice Sorensen registered dietitian, PhD, is the clinical research leader with the Fraser Health Integrated Long Term Care and Assisted Living team She stresses the positive impact work like this has in long term care homes, especially on resident populations at higher risk of malnutrition

“Evidence shows that individuals on a modified consistency diet typi cally experience reduced food intake and undernutrition, which can result in functional decline and poorer health status,” she says. “Allowing individuals to participate during mealtime in ways they were accustomed to can increase one ’ s motivation to eat, improve mealtime experience and impact quality of life in a big way

It brings back the joy of food”

KINVILLAGE PHOTO

developing seniors’ action

The City of Delta is hoping its seniors will have an improved sense of belonging and commu nity connections

That is one of the goals out lined in a recent request for pro posals for a qualified consulting firm or individual to conduct an age friendly community assess ment and develop an Age Friendly Community Action Plan for Delta

The city is seeking a con sultant with experience in conducting community based research, public engagement and developing municipal social plans and policies.

The city received fund ing from the Union of BC Municipalities Age Friendly Communities Grant program to carry out what will be the first in depth age friendly assess ment of the Delta community

“The results of the assess

ment will be used to guide policies and funding priorities for Delta into the future The goal of this project is to do a city wide assessment and develop city wide solutions to help Delta’s seniors continue to live independent, active lives, and have a voice and access to resources they need in the com munity,” the request for propos als explains

The target audience is older adults ages 65 and up, as that group has grown dramatically in the last 10 years in Delta People in the 50 to 64 age range are to also be considered

“As a part of this process, we would like to engage with diverse racialized groups; South Asians compose 20 per cent of Delta’s total population and are the largest visible minor ity group, so engagement with this population group will be critical In addition, the proj ect will focus on the priori ties of older vulnerable adults

and those who have not been actively involved in Delta’s pub lic engagement processes, ” the request for proposals notes.

The consultant is to, among other things, establish an advisory committee of local community partners to guide the project and conduct back ground research on the Delta community, policies and age friendly best practices

The public engagement is to include focus groups with targeted seniors’ groups, online surveys in English, Punjabi and Chinese, as well as reaching out to seniors in parks, gurdwaras, churches, social service provid ers and seniors’ centres

Among the other goals of the project is for the city to have a better understanding of Delta’s senior demographics through a review of Census 2021 informa tion, a better understanding of the social services infrastructure in Delta and the gaps in serving seniors

DIANE THORNTON PHOTO

Five board members of the Delta Hospital Auxiliary recently met with other regional executives for a one day conference. The highlight of that event was a presentation by BC Seniors’ Advocate, Isobel Mackenzie who informed about current trends and issues in elder care in B.C Delta Hospital Auxiliary is one of many healthcare auxiliaries in B C under the leadership of the provincial British Columbia Association of Healthcare Auxiliaries (BCAHA). Pictured are; BCAHA vice-president Carole Murray, president Diane Thornton, Isobel Mackenzie, and Lower Mainland Coastal Director Yvonne Chard.

Delta Hospital Auxiliary update

SANDOR GYARMATI sgyarmati@delta optimist com

L I V I N G T H E G O O D L I F E +

KinVillageCommunityCentreaddslifetoyears

The KinVillage Community Centre provides vital resources to help older adults live longer, healthier and more independent lives

Research on the subject has shown that seniors’ centres help older persons maintain or improve their physical, mental and cogni tive health, which can help them age in place longer and decrease the long term health care costs, delaying and preventing move in rates to nursing homes and assist ed living

It’s all about rethinking aging There are common misconcep tions about growing old

A senior on a park bench alone hunched over with a cane Imagine the same senior at a crosswalk holding hands with another senior standing straight up, the walking stick becoming a dancing cane

Portraying seniors as active and social breaks up the stereotype, creating an image of older people as diverse, enabled and happy

Music and dancing are always in fashion People of all ages love to do it as it promotes physical, men tal and emotional health, as well as a chance to be sociable, expres sive and uplifting.

The pandemic forced us all into isolation. Dancing in group set tings is a new experience for many people who were used to physi cal distancing Physical activity from dancing releases endorphins that helps us connect with others around us Dancing and cardio dance creates energy and confi dence for everyone on the dance floor, leading to feeling less loneli ness and more empowerment That moment when you share a smile, a nod of recognition with the person next to you can have a lasting effect

From classic waltzes to disco from Harry Belafonte to Harry Styles, dancing and music have a deep payoff to push ourselves to do new things Trying something novel like a dance class helps us evolve and rethink our own self

image in a positive way

If that kind of music will not get you on the dance floor and will get you heading for the door, there are lots of other kind of activities and programs for you!

The KinVillage Community Centre benefits older adults. Covering a broad range of inter ests, from educational programs, to social options like snooker and dances; and the wide variety of physical, intellectual and artistic options, KinVillage, adults meet, try something new and develop interests

The success of the KinVillage Community Centre is driven by volunteer involvement, a place for people to gather, plan, create and even lead the programs in which to be active

Along with these programs, they enjoy the wonderful Buenos Dias Café and the gently used clothing Unique Boutique (open weekdays) that supplies very affordable fash ionable options for all to enjoy.

Submitted by KinVillage

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Shari Lillie presents her popular Shari’s Social dances at KinVillage.

DELTA

IceHawksona scoringspree

What’s next for the Delta Ice Hawks? A guaranteed 10 goal win night for their next home game?

The way things have been going lately it would hardly be a stretch as the Pacific Junior Hockey League team is on an offensive tear never seen before in franchise history

The Ice Hawks (11 2 0 0) stayed perfect in October and extended their win streak to 10 games with an 8 4 triumph over the Grandview Steelers on Sunday night at the Burnaby Winter Club.

The result came after 10 1 (North Vancouver), 16 0 (Aldergrove), 10 0 (Abbotsford) and 10 5 (Ridge Meadows) vic tories, giving Delta an astonish ing 54 goals over the five game stretch.

Back in the 2017/18 cam paign, Delta steamrolled through the regular season with a 37 4 3 record and a whopping 158 goal differential, on its way to winning the league title.

“I was telling the guys about that team and how dominant it was. The goal differential was high, but it wasn’t anything like this,” said Ice Hawks GM and head coach Steve Robinson “I told them this was probably unsustainable then against Ridge Meadows (they do it) with six guys out of our line up ”

Among the missing play ers was team captain and last year ’ s leading scorer Alec Scouras who has now served four games of a five game sus pension He is part of a dynam ic group of returning players from last year ’ s squad that lost on home ice in the Cyclone Taylor Cup provincial final.

The returnees also include 19 year old twin forwards Carson and Conner Merrimen who sit third and 10th in league scoring with 25 and 21 points respectively.

The depth up front has been bolstered in a big way with the addition of impressive 17 year old rookies Brayden Sinclair, who leads the PJHL in scoring with 27 points, and linemate

Payton Hu who sits sixth with 24 points

However, according to Robinson, what’s stirring the attack is at the backend led by 20 year old Ladner native Carson Hemenway who has pick up right where he left off last season as the league’s top blueliner with 19 points. Right behind with 18 points is stand out Yuji Akimoto who logged

huge minutes last season.

Ryan Bal has also returned, along with Delta Hockey Academy alumni Logan Joslin who was a regular call up a year ago Robinson also is impressed with his rookies so much so that when Henry Smith returned to the club late last month he was converted to a forward He has five goals in his last two games.

“It’s the fluidity of our (defence) and their ability to move the puck. That’s what is pushing the offence to the next level,” continued Robinson.

“We arguably have three or four number one type d man on our team It’s a very fortunate situa tion to be in”

Ice Hawks home games are on Tuesday nights (7:35 p m ) at the Ladner Leisure Centre.

Ladner pitcher earns Softball B.C. Indigenous Award

MARK BOOTH

mbooth@delta optimist com

It was a short trip for Nevada Johnson to collect her latest softball achieve ment

The 19 year old pitcher from Ladner has been named Softball B C’s Indigenous Minor Athlete of the Year. Johnson accepted the award at last Saturday’s Softball B.C. Hall of Fame and Awards Banquet at the Coast Tsawwassen Inn

The honour comes on the heels of being the Fraser region’s recipient of the Premier’s Awards for Indigenous Youth Excellence in Sport, reflecting Johnson’s Northwest Territory Métis Nation heritage

She is now in her first year at Simon Fraser University, accepting a scholarship offer, after being recruited by head coach Tina Andreana

to be part of the NCAA Division 2 program for the 2022/23 season.

It was last fall when she had an all star role for the UBC Okanagan Heat, capturing the Canadian collegiate championship She was then among 32 athletes invited to Softball Canada’s national women ’ s team selection camp, held in Brampton, Ont back in

June.

The 2021 South Delta Secondary graduate also had a productive last year of minor softball, helping the Surrey 2003 Storm capture the U19 national championship in New Brunswick with an 11 7 win over Waterloo in the title game

Her father, Gord Johnson, has been a major influence, coaching her as she came through the South Delta Invaders rep “B” program before taking her game to the rep “A” level in her Grade 11 year

Nevada Johnson

MARK BOOTH

mbooth@delta optimist com

MARK BOOTH PHOTO

Standout twins Carson and Conner Merriman celebrate another goal with Ty Hemenway

Rare field goal lifts Sun Devils to thrilling win over Mt. Doug

today”

The South Delta Sun Devils could not have picked a better time to unveil their place kicking game Diego Alatorre booted a 25 yard field goal with eight seconds remain ing to give the Sun Devils a thrill ing 25 22 win over the Mt Doug Rams on Saturday to take a big step towards nailing down a berth in next month’s B.C. High School Football AAA playoffs

Up until that moment, South Delta had not attempted a field goal or convert all season, relying on two point conversion tries after every touchdown. Alatorre is the regular kicker with the Sun Devils junior varsity team and only recently start ed practicing with the seniors

“We started bringing him out about a couple of weeks ago but we didn’t have anything in place yet,” explained head coach Ray Moon. Then, finally, (offensive coordinator) Jerry (Mulliss) got a chance to see him kick and we said let’s put (a field goal formation) into the game plan. It definitely was to our advantage

Alatorre’s heroics came after some terrific work by Kenny Scott The Grade 12 quarterback connected with Dawson Sjoberg on a perfect strike, then used his scrambling abil ity to set up the field goal attempt.

Scott also fired touchdown passes to Sjoberg and Morgan MacCubbin from 25 and 18 yards respectively, finishing with 174 passing yards on 13 completitions

South Delta’s other major came on a 15 yard run by Scott as the hosts battled back from a 16 0 first half deficit Ryan Roberts had a pro ductive day on the ground with 106 yards rushing on 18 carries.

Safety Jaren Yamaoka led the defensive effort with four tackles and four assisted tackles

The win improved the Sun Devils’ to 2 2 in the highly competitive Western Division that features all six teams in the top 10 of the provincial rankings Only five will advance to the post season South Delta trav els to Notre Dame (3 1) on Friday night, then close out its schedule the following week in Victoria against Belmont (1 3).

MARK BOOTH PHOTO

South Delta Sun Devils kicker Diego Alatorre is picked up by Trent Clisby after his game winning field goal in last Saturday’s thrilling 25-22 win over Mt. Doug.

MARK BOOTH mbooth@delta optimist com

453 Connaught Drive

Wonderful Tudor style family home located on Connaught Drive in Pebble Hill. This 2659 sq ft. 4 bedroom & Den plus large games room with separate entrance/stairs has been meticulously maintained by current owners. Gorgeous south facing and private back yard with pool and patio is the perfect set up for entertaining family & guests. Surrounded by mature gardens and trees, this home exudes traditional style and comfort. Large master bedroom with private patio & ensuite, generous size bedrooms and games room make this home the ideal family home providing space for everyone.

Way

5712 16A Avenue

Fabulous building lot ready to go in Beach Grove! Build up to 2695 sq ft plus bonus attic space on this 49’x110’ (5390 sq ft) lot with West facing back yard in desireable Beach Grove. 2 blocks from Beach Grove Elementary School & SouthPointe Private School, Beach Grove Golf Course, South Delta Rec Center, shopping and restaurants are all minutes away We have very functional & luxurious 4 bedroom & den + 4 bathroom building Plans available. Get building your dream home sooner than you think!

Fabulous

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GREAT GOLF COURSE VIEW WITH SPACIOUS OUTDOOR LIVING

Fabulous

flooring

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in

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604-868-2844

604 868

604-868-2844

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in upper Tsawwassen This great

is approx 2900 sq ft with excellent floor

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cabinetry, over-sized windows, 10 ft ceilings + gas fireplace. 4 bed/3bath home w/ side by side laundry + mud-room. Enjoy sunshine + quiet in your private yard & entertain year round surrounded w/ lush landscaping, 25’10”x17’8” covered patio w/ low maintenance concrete, bright skylights & built in speakers that will impress all guests.This home is truly spectacular and needs to be seen to appreciate. Stones throw away from Delta Secondary/Memorial Park + downtown Ladner

Start the car “Sanderson Lane/Court Immacuately kept + unique 2005 built family home in an enviable location a stones throw away from Holly Elementary, LLC + Association Park. Featuring superb architecture + quality craftsmanship throughout. 4 bed/3 bath home w/ a lrg office space, open concept kitchen w/ oak cabinetry, granite counters, s/s gas range + updated Samsung Fridge/Bosch DW Radiant infloor heating throughout w/ loads of storage space. Cozy up in the winter months w/ your fireplace + entertain year round with your low maintenance fully fenced backyard perfect for the kids + pets! Upstairs features 3 bed/2 full baths plus stackable “Asko” laundry Many updates to the inside and out, come and see for yourself!

Welcome Home! This renovated 5 bed, 2 bath home is a family friendly dream. Offering over 2930 sq ft of updated, open concept & recently renovated space entertaining will be a dream this summer Upgrades include a fully re-done + open white kitchen w/ quartz countertops, soft close wood cabinetry granite composite sink + S/S Bosch applianc. Enjoy the sliding glas doors & all the natural light that they bring. Upstairs has 3 oversized bedrooms w/ 1 bathroom + an abundance of storage space. Downstairs contains a large & bright kitchen/family room, 2.5 bedrooms + 1 bath perfect for your teenagers, parents, or summer guests Sit back & relax in your new deck or large fenced in backyard. Nothing else left to do here but pack your belongings+ move on in. Showings by appt only book today!

“Thankful and Bessed” was the sign that adorned Lucia’s door This phrase best describes her approach to lfe Aways a postive nfluence, Lucia was an inspiraton to her entire family Lucia was the famiies’ guiding lght Rather than anchoring on probems, she always sought soutions

Lucia’s determination to always do her best was founded n her deeply spritua roots It was in God that she found soace She truly lved her faith Perhaps her fath grew from the fact that she lost both her parents to ilness whie she was quite young Perhaps from ths oss, grew the determned, independent person who we al admired and respected

Lucia was born in Bishop’s Town, a part of Mumba n Coonia Inda n 1921 She was the second odest of five ssters A keen student, Lucia got a teachng certificate and started her teaching career n 1945, Lucia marred R Francis Soares Shortly after they were married, Francis left for the U S competng an Eectrcal Engineering Degree Francs oned the Unted Natons as a communicatons engneer in 1950 He was assgned to conflict countres where his task was to set up communicatons lnes for the ncomng peacekeepers Never a “shrinkng voet”, Lucia dd not take a back seat to her husband’s ambtions, but instead complemented his character She was determned to stand besde her husband and oned hm wherever he was assigned with their son Robert For more than a decade Lucia and her young famly found themseves iving in countries that were sufferng from conflct

In 1964, Francis and Lucia decided to set root in Engand wth their three chidren, Robert, Frances and Patrck Luca returned to teachng, a vocaton that she enoyed Seeking to offer their chldren greater opportunities, Francs and Luca moved to Canada in 1971 and buit a home in Langley, B C Lucia continued her teaching career at Belmont Eementary, where over the next 18 years, she made many frends and taught hundreds of students

Faith does not ive in the absence of Charty Gvng back to the communty was a big part of Luca s ife After her retirement she and Francs volunteered their services teaching English in both Hungary and Sovaka after the fall of the Soviet Unon Francis passed away in 1996 at whch point Lucia moved to Tsawwassen (Deta) to join her chidren Frances and Patrick who were lvng there She contnued her chartabe ways volunteering at the Kinsmen Centre untl 2020, readng to and massagng the hands seniors who were often younger than her

Lucia lived independenty unti 2020 when she moved to assisted living at Augustine House In 2022, as she found it more difficult to compete tasks on her own, she moved to Westshore Layum Her fina days were spent participating in singng, playing cards and Scrabble

Our famly wishes to acknowedge the caregvers at Westshore Laylum who treated Luca like a family member No words can sufficiently express how gratefu we are

Lucia’s extended family, who can be found on all contnents, wil mss her It s we who were truy Blessed by her wisdom and for that we are Thankfu

A prayer service wl be hed

Kaja passed away peacefuly at the age of 94 to be with her ove, Gilbert She was predeceased by Gibert, her brother Tauno, and her mother and father

Kaja ived a beautful, adventurous ife with Gl They had many happy years in Tsawwassen at their beach home entertaning, traveling, sking and hking She was a talented, creatve seamstress, artist and weaver, enoying many years as a member of the Deta Spnners and Weavers group

Kaja leaves behind those who wil remember her with love, ncuding nephew John and hs wife Pat (South Afrca) cousins Sirkka and Prkko (Finland) her dear frend Arine Smith, and her long time caregver and frend Karen

No servce as per Kaja’s wishes, but a Tea to share memories wll be held at Kirkand House 4140 Arthur Drve, Ladner, BC, on Monday, November 7th at 1:00pm

Condolences may be offered at www detafuneral ca

Delta Funeral Home 604 946 6040

Fond memories linger everyday, Remembrance keeps themnear.

B C V4K 3V6

www dhchfoundation ca

604 940 9695

SOARES, Lucia Catherine

JONES, Kaija Maria September 8, 1929 October 10, 2022