Delta Optimist November 10 2022

ThreeDeltanameswillnowneverbeforgotten

First names added to Ladner cenotaph since the Second World War

PHIL MELNYCHUK Contributing Writer

Padre Jim Short made a promise while serving in Afghanistan as chap lain, never to forget Stephan John Stock. Now that promise has been fulfilled with the addition of his name, and two others from Delta, onto the cenotaph in Ladner’s Memorial Park

“It brings me a lot of satisfaction,” said Short

Short met Stock while they were in training for deployment in Wainwright, AB, when they learned they were both from Delta

Stock, attended South Delta Secondary and was a combat engineer serving as part of the Canadian contri bution to NATO’s International Security Assistance Force He and two others died on Aug 20, 2008 on their way back to Kandahar base after their vehicle hit an IED

Short was serving there as senior chaplain when Canada lost a total of 19 soldiers that year.

He provided the prayer service for Stock and arranged for his body to be returned to Canada

“So that’s why this is kind of impor tant to me. It’s part of my own personal journey of remembrance and grief and honouring that promise that I made that I wouldn’t forget these guys, because in reality, I think about them every day,” said Short

After researching how to add names to the cenotaph, he and local historian Peter Broznitsky found there was no process.

They then suggested to the city two criteria for having a name added to the cenotaph The veteran’s name must be listed in the Books of Remembrance in Ottawa that lists all those who died on duty, in uniform, and those listed on the cenotaph must also have lived in Delta

Short approached Delta council who approved and paid for adding the names.

“These are all Delta names, with Delta families, with strong ties to our community It’s our obligation to ensure that they have a place of remembrance on the cenotaph perma nently,” said Coun Dylan Kruger of the unanimous approval by council of the

request

The city also received a letter from the B C branch of the Royal Canadian Legion saying it would be appropriate to add the names

“It’s, I think, really important closure for the families and for the Silver Cross mothers to be able to have that oppor tunity. Their children made the ulti mate sacrifice in defence of our coun try It’s important we honour them,” Kruger

added

A private ceremony will take place today (Nov. 10) at the cenotaph to rec ognize the servicemen and their fami lies.

The two other names of former Delta residents, Capt D Miles Selby and

Trooper Percy Leonard Devereaux, also were added to the cenotaph.

Selby died in a mid air collision with another Tutor jet on Dec 10, 2004 while training in Saskatchewan He had been training for his new solo position with the Canadian Forces Snowbirds flight demonstration team Selby had served in Kosovo and was a CF 18 pilot and was 31 years old when he died He had lived in Tsawwassen where he joined the 828 Hurricane Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron

Devereaux came to Ladner in 1891, then went to South Africa in 1901 to fight in the Boer War. He died of his injuries there in May 1902

Short said representatives of all three families will be at today’s ceremony

“They’re really excited and hon oured that someone would remember someone in their family,” he said of Devereaux. “We now have a process for the future, which I think is important These are the first names that have been added since the Second World War”

Short would also like to see ceno taphs updated across the country by having local names added to recognize those who died while in uniform

A video company has created a short documentary which he’ll present to Veterans Affairs Canada in the hopes of showing others across Canada how to add names

“We just want to light the spark and get people thinking about it,” he said See more stories in our Remembrance Day section starting on page 19.

JIM K NNEAR PHOTO

Jim Short, left and Peter Broznitsky stand in front of the cenotaph in Ladner’s Memorial Park.

Carriers

The Optimist is always looking for carriers to deliver every Thursday in Ladner and Tsawwassen Call Kristene at 604 946 5171 or email: kmurray@ glaciermedia.ca

Newcouncilsettogetbacktowork

Mayor and council sworn in during ceremony Monday at City Hall

It’s official Delta’s new coun cil can now get down to work In front of family, friends and invited guests, the new council was officially sworn in at a cer emony at City Hall in Ladner Monday night.

Piped into council cham bers by a member of the Delta Police Pipe Band, members of Delta Police and the Delta Fire Department, Mayor George Harvie, re elected council lors Alicia Guichon and Dylan Kruger and new councillors Daniel Boisvert, Jessie Dosanjh, Rod Binder and Jennifer Johal each took the oath of office and oath of allegiance administered by the Hon. Madame Justice Barbara Norell

South Delta Baptist Church Pastor Paul Park offered a prayer of dedication, while Frank Campbell and Angeline Splockton from the Tsawwassen First Nation (TFN), drummed and sang the Eagle Blessing TFN Chief Laura Cassidy was joined by executive council lor Valerie Cross, Coun. Bryce Williams and Coun Taylor Baker at the ceremony.

“Congratulations to the new council on your election,” said Cassidy “The Tsawwassen First Nation values our relationship with the City of Delta In the past we haven’t had the best relation ship, but in recent years we have endeavored to walk the same path As governments we need to work together as partners

to steward these lands using the teachings of our ancestors and the modern tools we have today.”

Also on hand from the Musqueam Indian Band were councillors Brett Sparrow and Nolan Charles.

“As an elected representative myself, I understand that the success of these elections come from your ability to understand the priorities of the communi ties’ interests that you repre sent,” said Sparrow. “This is about turning the page to a new chapter of relationship building. We are very much looking for ward to working together. Truth and Reconciliation is about strengthening relationships and we all win by working together”

In his inaugural address, Harvie thanked the voters of Delta for re electing him to a second term as mayor.

“This has been a very impor tant election, one where I, and the newly elected council ran a positive, forward thinking cam paign talking about issues in the community. We look forward to delivering on our commitments With a fresh, strong mandate from the people of Delta, we are going to move our community forward.

“A second term is a tremen dous honour and an opportunity to allow me to continue working with council towards my goal of Delta being recognized as the best place to work and raise a family here in Canada”

Harvie spoke about the work in the last term, which he said focused on record investments, keeping taxes low and Delta debt free

“We know there is much more we can do,” Harvie said “Recognizing the rising costs of living, the financial impacts of COVID 19 for Delta families and seniors, we are commit ted to keeping our property tax rates among the lowest in the Lower Mainland to ensure Delta remains affordable for our resi dents”

Harvie said council will con tinue to strive to make Delta a safe place to live by investing in its police officers and firefighters as well as pushing the provincial government for more support for paramedics

He said over the coming months the city will be continu ing to reach out to the public to complete Delta’s parks mas ter plan, rebuild the Winskill Aquatic Centre, complete the Cromie Park master plan, build a second turf field at Mackie Park and re place the aging tracks at Delta Secondary and Seaquam Secondary.

Harvie also reinforced the city’s commitment to working closely with the business com munity, as well as creating more diverse housing options for all.

“I love this city and look for ward to continuing to serve this community as Delta’s mayor, which has been a privilege and an honour of a lifetime” he said “Thank you Delta…it’s time for us to get back to work”

IAN JACQUES ijacques@delta optimist com

JIM KINNEAR PHOTO

Delta’s new council pictured from left to right; Rod Binder, Dylan Kruger, Jennifer Johal, Mayor George Harvie, Jessie Dosanjh, Alicia Guichon and Daniel Boisvert.

ValWindsorelected schoolboardchair

JACQUES

A familiar face will lead the Delta school board of trustees for the next year

At Tuesday’s inaugural board meeting in Ladner, trustee Val Windsor was elected board chair, for the period of Nov. 8, 2022 to Nov 6, 2023

Windsor, who has served on the board since 2011, held the posi tion of vice chair from 2013 to 2018. She was elected chairperson for the first time in 2019 Incumbent trustee Erica Beard, who was also re elected in October, was named vice chair.

Following a traditional welcome and opening from Indigenous Cultural Enhancement Facilitator Nathan Wilson, Judge J G Cohen read the school district trustee’s code of conduct and administered the oath of office to Windsor, Beard, re elected trustee Nick Kanakos and new trustees Nimmi Daula, Ammen Dhillon, Masako

Gooch and Joe Muego

In her inaugural address as board chair, Windsor thanked all District staff for “making this district what it is caring, supportive and a wonderful district in which to learn”

She also paid special thanks to all school sup port staff, including cus todians

“If you are in the edu cation system, you know the most important peo ple are your office staff and custodians and the rest of them, we are just eye candy they all make the place run and we are so grateful for all they do,” said Windsor. “This inaugural meeting sig nals a new beginning for the school district With four new trustees with diverse interests and tal ents, I’m so looking for ward to an exciting and productive term over the next four years. ”

Windsor spoke about Vision 2030, which sig nifies the hopes and dreams of the Delta school district

Some of the goals of Vision 2030 include:

graduation for all, powerful and inspiring learning environments, strong foundations in literacy and numeracy, creating enhanced learn ing opportunities, the promotion of health and well being, increasing family and student phys ical health, mental health and wellness, promoting diversity and anti racism and ensuring Indigenous content is part of the learning journey for all students.

“I’m excited to work with the city on projects of mutual interest,” she said. “In working togeth er with mayor and coun cil, school trustees will ensure that funds intend ed for the classroom are actually used for that purpose We are all here for the same purpose to serve the residents of Delta and to ensure that our schools and our city continue to deliver the same high level of ser vice to our constituents.

Once this evening is over, the real work begins Working together we can make Delta schools even better”

JIM KINNEAR PHOTO

The new Delta school board of trustees pictured left to right: Ammen Dhillon, Nimmi Daula, Val Windsor, Joe Muego, Masako Gooch, Erica Beard and Nick Kanakos.

IAN

ijacques@delta optimist com

19 vaccination rate for younger Delta kids low

SANDOR GYARMATI sgyarmati@delta optimist com

Younger kids in Delta still don’t have widespread protection against COVID 19 with vaccinations, although vac cines are available

According to the latest numbers from the BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC), children in the ages 5 to 11 groups across the Fraser Health region, including Delta, are far behind when it comes to first doses and follow up shots

As of Oct. 30, Delta kids in that age range, who had a first dose of vaccine, only stood at 59 per cent, the same as the week prior

It pales in comparison to the 97 per cent of Delta residents 70 years old and up who got a first dose, or the 95 per cent for those in the 18 to 49 age range. Those in the 12 to 17 age range in Delta who got a first dose stood at 91 per cent, tops among Fraser Health communities.

As far as Delta kids ages 5 to 11 get ting a second dose, the number was even smaller at 46 per cent

The vaccination rate for Delta kids in the 12 to 17 range, however, is tops again in Fraser Health at 88 per cent

As far as third doses, it drops dra matically at 13 per cent in Delta for the 5 to 11 group. That is just one per cent higher than the previous week It’s much higher for the 12 to 17 group in Delta, which is at 41 per cent

Delta’s percentage for kids in the 5 to 11 range getting a third dose is also smaller than neighbouring Surrey (18 per cent) or Richmond (16 per cent)

When it comes to kids in Fraser Health in the 5 to 11 age group getting a first dose, New Westminster leads the way (62 per cent), followed by Burnaby (61 per cent).

When it comes to second doses, New Westminster also lead the way (52 per cent), followed again by Burnaby (50 per cent). New Westminster is also in the lead when it comes to third doses (20 per cent), while Burnaby and Tri Cities are tied for second (18 per cent)

According to the BCCDC, most young people are not likely to get very sick from COVID 19, but some will Being vaccinated for COVID 19 is the best way to protect young people, the agency says, adding some have a higher chance of more serious symptoms if they get COVID 19, including children with pre existing conditions

work, its site and plans:

• Complete removal and replacement of the major ty of the sw ng span stee slew bearing components and associated connections This work consists of end floorbeams, drum, radia struts, center pin, spider ring beam, and square tens on rods at the center pivot.

• The scope to rep ace the ma ority of the slew bearing and its associated components requ res a temporary fa se bent system, which a lows for better work ng access and safety conditions for crews

• The temporary false bent system will cons st of two bents (consist ng of two piles each) that wi l be instal ed within the Canoe Pass to support the Bridge for vehicle traffic and to facilitate the rehabi itation of the s ew bearing components

• The temporary fa se bent system w l be removed once the rehabilitat on works are completed

• The presences of the p les for the temporary false bent system will result in the c osure of the nav gational channel The anticipated closure, from insta lat on to removal, is expected to be f ve months

• With respect to mpacts cross ng the Bridge during construct on, users can expect:

a) Daytime Impacts The ma ority of the work wi l be undertaken during the day with min mal mpacts to vehicle traffic However, due to no se concerns, pi ing works to nstall the temporary bent system wi l requ re dayt me c osures in January 2023 To minimize daytime traff c mpacts during pi e driving, regu ar openings of at east 20 minutes after each hour of road closure wi l be prov ded to allow vehicles to cross

b) Nighttime Impacts Most of the work can be conducted with the br dge open to vehic e traffic However, severa over n ght closures for acking of the Br dge to remove and rep ace bridge components may be required c) Emergency veh c es will be permitted to cross at a l times throughout the construct on works Work will stop and the br dge wi l be cleared to al ow passage of emergency veh c es d) Pedestr ans and cyclists w l be permitted to cross at all times, except during pile dr v ng, and may be escorted by work crews for safety purposes

• The construction work is ant c pated to beg n in January 2023 and be comp eted by end of May 2023

In, on, over, under, through or across the Fraser River, Canoe Pass in front 3350 Westham Is and Road Comments regarding the effect of th s work on marine navigation can be sent through the Common Project Search site mentioned above under the Comment section (search by the above referenced number) or, by sending your comments direct to #820 800 Burrard Street, Vancouver BC, V6Z 2J8, if you do not have access to the internet

However, comments wil be cons dered only if they are in writing (electronic means preferable) and are rece ved not later than 30 days after the pubication of the last notice Although all comments conforming to the above w l be cons dered, no individua response wi l be sent

Signed at Vancouver, BC th s 4th day of November, 2022

Signature Susan Chu, Pro ect Manager II

Friday windstorm causes power outages, fallen trees, ferry delays

IAN JACQUES ijacques@delta optimist com

An intense windstorm Friday night left more than 6,000 B.C. Hydro cus tomers in Delta without power.

The south region was hit the hardest where Environment Canada reported a sustained wind of more than 70 km/h and gusts peaking at 103 km/h

The storm resulted in a large section of Ladner north of 34B Ave, east of 45A St , west of 66th street and south of 52nd Ave. without power, impacting 3,900 B.C. Hydro custom ers

Tsawwassen also dealt with at least one sig nificant outage west of 54th St. and south of Sea Salish Way leaving another 2,200 customers without power

Delta Firefighters were busy as they responded to 35 calls between 9:30 p.m. and 1 a m mostly in the south end of Delta Deputy Fire Chief Dave Ayton said the majority of calls were in Tsawwassen with firefighters respond ing to calls of trees down on roads, power lines

down and people stuck in elevators for rescues due to power outages

Delta Police were also assisting in public safety efforts said Acting Insp James Sandberg.

As for the City of Delta’s response, director of engineering Steven Lan told the Optimist in an email that Engineering Operations staff worked throughout the night to address fallen trees; power outages affecting pump stations and traffic signals; and clearing drainage infrastructure such as trash racks.

Lan said approximately 25 staff were involved in the response, which con tinued over the weekend primarily in relation to assessing tree damage and scheduling restoration work for the upcoming week

Meanwhile, the wind storm resulted in quite a trip to Vancouver Island for the South Delta Sun Devils senior varsity foot ball team.

Following their win over Belmont, the Sun Devils headed to Swartz Bay to board the Spirit of British Columbia’s 9 p m sailing

to Tsawwassen The ferry was in route when the peak of the storm forced it to hold in shelter waters between Galiano and Salt Spring islands It stayed there for about two hours before finally continuing the trip.

“We were expecting to get back around 10:35 or 10:40 then all of a sudden the captain came on the PA system like an airline pilot would and said they were experiencing choppy waters over Georgia Straight and we are going to be staying here until the winds die down,” said South Delta head coach Ray Moon. “When we finally started to go again, it felt like being on one of those hydroplane boats We were told to remain seated and it was close to 1 a m when we finally got back to Tsawwassen”

With about 50 players, coaches and managers making the trip, Moon was relieved the ferry didn’t turn around and leave him scrambling to find ground transportation and hotel rooms for the night in Sydney

with files from Mark Booth

Navigable Waters Act

IAN JACQUES

ijacques@delta optimist com

To honour the service and sacrifices of past and present veterans, TransLink is offering free transit on Remembrance Day for all services, including HandyDART.

Veterans, members of the Canadian Armed Forces, police and fire departments, Canadian Coast Guard, and BC Ambulance Service can present their badge, mili tary ID, Veteran’s Service Card, or appear in uniform to receive free transit

On Nov. 11, veterans and other eligible cus tomers are not required to tap their Compass Cards and can take tran sit without tapping all day One accessible fare gate will be left open at all SkyTrain and SeaBus stations from 8 a m to 6 p m to accommodate

“This Remembrance Day, TransLink is hon oured to support those

who have served and continue to serve our country,” says TransLink CEO Kevin Quinn. “On Nov 11, we also want to acknowledge all the first responders who work tirelessly to keep our communities safe and secure every day”

Members of the Royal Canadian Legion will be giving out poppies by donation at various transit hubs around the region

“The funds raised by the Poppy Campaign enable us to fulfill our mission within our com munities and ensures our veterans, members of the Canadian Armed Forces, RCMP, and their families get the support they deserve,” says BC/ Yukon Command of the Royal Canadian Legion Foundation President Craig Thomson. “Our partnership with TransLink is a wonder ful opportunity for us to engage with everyday

Canadians”

TransLink encour ages customers to take transit to Remembrance Day ceremonies around Metro Vancouver.

Remembrance Day Service (Friday, Nov 11):

Holiday fares in effect for non veterans (1 Zone fare to travel across all zones)

Bus, SkyTrain, and SeaBus services will operate on a Sunday/ holiday schedule West Coast Express will not be operating

The TransLink Customer Service Centre, Access Transit Customer Care Office, and Lost Property Office will be closed.

SkyTrain, SeaBus, and buses will observe a moment of silence at 11 a.m. (buses will stop at nearest stop closest to the hour) across the tran sit system

Service returns to reg ular Saturday schedules for all modes on Nov 12

Limited Partnership 5008 47A Avenue, Delta, BC V4K 1T8 Phone 604 946 4451 Deliveries 604 946 5171 wwwdelta-optimist com

PUBLISHER: Pierre Pelletier ppelletier@delta-optimist com

EDITOR: Ian Jacques ijacques@delta optimist com

SPORTS: Mark Booth mbooth@delta-optimist com

REPORTERS

Sandor Gyarmati sgyarmati@ delta-optimist com Mark Booth mbooth@delta-optimist com

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

CLASSIFIED 604 444 3056 classifieds@van.net

Wewill remember

The Happy Gang 1945

This 1945 photograph depicts six women gathered together for a group photo at the No 5 Operational Training Unit (OTU) airbase at Boundary Bay celebrating the end of World War II in Europe

For the first time since 2019, the community the whole community will gather on Nov 11 to remember Friday’s ceremony at the cenotaph in Ladner’s Memorial Park as well as at the Social Heart in North Delta will see a return to full in per son ceremonies

I suspect that the cenotaph will be packed as residents of Delta pay their respects to our fallen.

This week online and in the pages of the Optimist, we have our annual special Remembrance Day section The section is filled with stories and photos from our veterans and mem bers of the community who shared their stories We are grateful for all of their contributions

We also have a very special story on our front page

Padre Jim Short, whose amazing military service and service to our community has been chronicled numerous times in the Optimist, has fulfilled a promise made while serving in Afghanistan as chaplain, that the community of Delta will never forget Stephan John Stock.

Stock, who was killed in action in 2008, now forever has a place on Ladner’s cenotaph, alongside two other Delta war heroes Capt. D. Miles Selby and Trooper Percy Leonard Devereaux who were also added Short, alongside local historian Peter Broznitsky, have been working on this ‘missing names ’ project for the past couple of years Despite some roadblocks, they have persevered and now the families of these three vet erans and the community will never forget the sacrifices that were made sacrifices that all of us should be thankful for We live in an amazing country, province and community.

This Remembrance Day I will for sure be taking time out of my day to remember, reflect and thank all who serve and have served for our country.

Both men and women worked diligently at the base to do their part in bringing the war to its conclusion

Delta Archives 2020 013 082

We all need to play a part in protecting farmers and food

It has been a year since the catastrophic flood ing on the Sumas prairie and the city of Abbotsford. Hundreds of millions of dollars in dam ages to more than 1,000 farms and 15,000 hectares of land Much of the farming economy in the area essen tially destroyed 2 5 million livestock lost and livelihoods ruined

Two weeks ago the Senate Committee on Agriculture released a report on the disaster that will hopefully gain some traction and see recommendations come to fruition rather than being shelved for any given election cycle The Hippopotamus in the room is money, lots of it.

Although all levels of gov ernment knew there were potential problems with diking infrastructure on the Sumas prairie, no precau tionary upgrades were taken which resulted in the disaster. A consultant told the Senate Committee that if the Fraser River breached, the economic damage would be tenfold of what occurred on the prairie In Delta, it is not only the

$750 million estimate of dik ing infrastructure that needs to be upgraded Dredging of the lower Fraser is needed on a regular basis It is estimated that 2,000 cubic metres of silt and other material washed downstream from last year, is contributing to concern ing river levels and breach scenarios Dredging is an entirely complex undertaking that requires deft stickhan dling through a myriad of bureaucratic obstacles. The river doesn’t wait for process Think if you didn’t clean your gutters every year Can you imagine the damage?

For businesses, residents and our farming community,

the estimated damage of a potential breach in Ladner is between $1 to 3 billion.

Also recently passed by the federal government was a unanimous motion by the House of Commons to have the government ask the Competition Bureau to inves tigate grocery chain profits.

The Fruit and Vegetable Growers of Canada (FVGC) notes that input costs for our food production have increased dramatically Fuel costs are up 100 per cent, nitrogen fertilizer is up 121 per cent and now our farm ers are being squeezed on margin by buyers, which of course, filters down to our budgets at home

To protect our food security we can all do our part We need to help our local farmers by supporting “BC Fresh” and buying BC whenever possible Also, we can assist our farm ers by better understanding risks to local farmlands from potential breach situations on the lower Fraser. We can write letters to all levels of govern ment to request appropriate preparations for prevention and mitigation strategies

The Delta Heritage Society is pleased to celebrate 100 years of the Delta Optimist Please visit us at the Douglas J Husband Discovery Centre Do you have photos that help tell Delta s story? Interested in becoming a DHS member? Contact us at info@deltaheritagesociety ca

MIKE SCHNEIDER

Politicians to blame for Halloween antics, says reader

Editor:

I read the Nov 3 Optimist editorial (Despicable behaviour) and I shake my head, obviously whoever wrote the editorial has not lived in Tsawwassen

I have lived in Tsawwassen for 60 years and every Halloween, something of this sort happens, because there is nothing for teens in the area to do Back in the 60’s 12th Ave. was closed due to a massive bonfire on the road!

Roman candle wars is not new, nor was the near riot, with the only difference being that the police recorded the scene

What happened was the annual letting off steam, by kids so bored, so distracted by the fact many do not have a future that mayhem hap pens One can say it is “flipping the bird” to the establishment because the establishment has “flipped the bird” to them!

Back in the day, there was the “Orchards” or in Ladner the “Sand Pits,” with drag racing on Ferry Road, places where teens and young adults could let off steam Not any more

Today, in this political ly correct world, where anything fun is discour aged or banned outright,

kids are left to their own devices for “entertain ment.”

All too easy to point the finger at parents and fireworks because the real issue is the politi cians, who have made Tsawwassen a “ no go ” area for kids.

Everyone should get off their high horses and view Tsawwassen/ Delta through the eyes of kids and teens instead through the rose coloured glasses of bureaucrats and higher purpose persons Kids, especially teens need an outlet and the failure to provide one, is nothing more than despicable.

D. M. Johnston

Actionshaveconsequences

Editor:

Re: Halloween antics in Tsawwassen (Optimist, Nov. 3).

Society needs to draw a line and govern this problem

The kids need to repair the damage and the parents need to be fined heavily

It’s time to make par ents aware that society will not tolerate this behaviour.

As stated in the arti cle, this is not a police problem, but a parent problem. Kids have to be aware that there are consequences. Parents have to be made aware

that it’s their fault for not installing a sense of respect for society and their children will be punished along with them.

Society has gone soft and without firm rules our society will keep deteriorating.

John Costelloe

More positive news please

Editor:

The Nov 3 edition of the Delta Optimist has its front page covered in the story of the Halloween horrors in Tsawwassen Further on in this edition page A17 Lifestyles shows the Delta Police Pipe Band performing and an article about an art show It is these stories on page 17 that show the positivity of our commu nity, while the Halloween

horrors in Tsawwassen obviously centres on the negative aspect of our community This story placement gives cred ibility to the negative and buries the usually posi tive aspect of living in Delta is all about Some of the youths that were involved in the Tsawwassen tragedy will relish the thought that their story made the front page, so maybe it’s time

to change the story place ment and have the front page be a story about the positive aspect of Delta and bury the negative story somewhere else

On all news fronts, we are bombarded daily by the negative news throughout our world

I just wish that more emphasize would be placed on the positivity of our planet.

Ray Crawford

A real sense of entitlement

Editor:

Several years ago I was talking with a bus driver who’s least favou rite route was the 601 Tsawwassen run, even worse than the down town eastside Hastings route!

The same attitude was expressed to me more than 25 years ago by a Delta Police con stable about working in Tsawwassen. The reason was demonstrated once again on Halloween at Denison Park

A very sarcastic con gratulations goes to the parents of these youths for continuing the cycle of entitlement that you have generously passed along to your children

Ladner Night Market makes its debut on Saturday

PHIL MELNYCHUK Contributing Writer

A new event in Ladner will brighten up some of those dark winter nights while giving the commu nity a chance to connect.

Tracy Douglas and Jennifer Smith have started the Ladner Night Market, which features six dates over the next month at the Odd Fellows Hall (5425 Ladner Trunk Rd)

Douglas said she thought about the idea a few years ago… a night market, where people can browse over bak ing, arts, crafts and used goods that brings the community together and helps newcomers get acquainted with local business

“What we ’ re really trying to do is bring the community back and get people to come out and talk to each other, visit and get to know each

other,” she said. “We want it to be social We want people to come and stay awhile Have some food, have a coffee, visit, meet your friends, meet your neighbours”

The emphasis is on local goods, produce and art. A liquor licence will allow shoppers to walk around with a warm drink or a hot chocolate and nibble on authentic Mexican street tacos

“We want to support the community by buying local Buy local, support

small businesses, support your neighbour,” Douglas said.

So far, about 25 ven dors have signed up including Rock the Boat Sea Food, Camille’s Boutique and Gallery and Full Moon Floral.

The night market is scheduled for four Saturday nights, from 6 to 10 p m , on Nov 12, 19, 26 and Dec 3 As well, night markets are sched uled for two Fridays, Dec. 9 and 16, from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m.

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Jennifer Smith and Tracy Douglas are starting the Ladner Night Market.

MOONLIGHT GALA

Saturday, November 5, 2022 Tsawwassen Springs

Moonlight Gala Committee

Don Sangster, Co Chair

Lois Wilkinson, Co Chair

Tanya Armstrong

Rick Boates

Monica Bohm

Sarah Gallop Pindi Mann Margot Millen Margo Peerless Jit Sangha

Board of Directors

Pam Paton, Chair

Andrew Jackson, Vice Chair

Ingrid Barnes, Past Chair

Paul Challinor, Treasurer

Rick Boates

Monica Bohm

Sarah Gallop

Lawrence Green Larry Hagan

Don Livingston

Knut Nordlie Phil Posehn

Karen Powar Karla Rockwell

Jit Sangha

Staff

Lisa

IAN JACQUES ijacques@delta optimist com

Sisi Sabo was thrilled with excitement as she put on firefighter turnout gear at Fire Hall No. 1 in Ladner Thursday morn ing (Nov. 3).

The Grade 5 South Park Elementary student was well into day as Delta Fire Chief for the Day when the Optimist stopped by for photos and an interview.

Sabo’s day started at 9 a.m. when Engine 2, Wildland 5, Fire Prevention Officers Capt. Brey and chaperone Gillian Sillet met her at the front entry of the school for pick up Sisi was accompanied by her mom Nini who was equally excited about the day’s events to unfold

After pictures with her class and the fire crew,

she arrived at Fire Hall No 1 for an auto extrica tion demonstration

She then went for lunch at McDonald’s with Mayor George Harvie and Chief Guy McKintuck and then back to the fire hall for more presentations, photos and an Ecomm dispatch

announcement welcom ing her for her tour of duty

It was then onto Fire Hall No 3 where she participated in a small hose evolution, a ‘fire hall lunch’ provided by the duty crew and was then dropped back off at school

NOTICETODISCHARGELANDUSECONTRACTS

Sisi told the Optimist that her day has been amazing.

“I put in the entry because I thought it would be a great expe rience and an idea for when I get older if I wanted to do this job,” she said, adding there are lots of friends and fellow students who were also excited for her and prob ably a bit jealous.

McKintuck said the fire department received hundreds of contest entries from grade 5 to 7 students throughout the school district

“It gives students an idea of what we do and an opportunity for us to do outreach in the community,” he said. “I love days like this I love interacting with kids… it’s really fun They bring such an excitement to the day”

Address:11923 BeechwoodAvenue FileNo:LU009465

FirstReading:September 20,2022

Thepurposeofthisbylawis to authorize Council to dischargeLandUseContract S.A.No.3181forthesubject propertyinordertopermit constructionofanewsingle detached dwelling with a secondarysuite

Pursuant to Section 464(2) oftheLocalGovernmentAct and Council’s resolution on September 20, 2022, a Public Hearing will not be heldforBylawNo.8179.

Address:490513Avenue FileNo:LU009375

FirstReading:September 20,2022

Thepurposeofthisbylawis to authorize Council to dischargeLandUseContract S.A.No.3241forthesubject property in order to permit constructionofasecondary suite within one of the attached garages in the existingdwelling.

Pursuant to Section 464(2) oftheLocalGovernmentAct and Council’s resolution on September 20, 2022, a Public Hearing will not be heldforBylawNo.8176

Address:460154AStreet FileNo:LU009382 FirstReading:September 20,2022

Thepurposeofthisbylawis to authorize Council to discharge Land Use Contract S.A. No. 3034 for the subject property in order to permit constructionofanewsingle detacheddwelling

Pursuant to Section 464(2) oftheLocalGovernmentAct andCouncil’sresolutionon September 20, 2022, a Public Hearing will not be heldforBylawNo.8177

Materialsrelatedtothedischarges suchasthestaffreport,proposed bylaw,detailedmapsandother informationmaybeinspectedat DeltaCityHall,4500Clarence TaylorCrescent,Delta,BCMonday toFriday excludingstatutory holidaysfrom8:30am to4:45pm fromThursday November10 2022 toMonday,November21,2022

Materialsmayalsobeviewedat wwwdeltacaIfyouhaveageneral inquiryregardingtheproposed landusecontractdischarge application(s)orifyouwouldlike assistancetoinspectanyrelevant documentation,pleasecontactthe CommunityPlanningand DevelopmentDepartmentbyemail atcpd@deltacaorbyphoneat 6049463380

Interested persons have the opportunity to provide written comments regarding the bylaws. Commentsmustbereceivedonor before12:00noon,November18, 2022andmustincludeyourname andaddress Youmaysubmityour commentstoMayorandCouncilin thefollowingways:

WritetoMayorandCouncil 4500ClarenceTaylorCrescent Delta BCV4K3E2 OR Email:mayorcouncil@deltaca

IAN JACQUES PHOTO

Delta Fire Chief Guy McKintuck and Mayor George Harvie present Sisi Sabo with her Fire Chief for a Day award.

Gerald Bramhill and Russell Ford, Royal Canadian Legion Branch 61, Ladner, visited Reach Society’s Child Development Centre with a $500 donation to support children who have developmental needs Gerald told Fundraising Manager Tamara Veitch that it was wonderful to learn more about REACH programs that help local children and families

Delta Firefighters were pleased to accept a donation of $1,000 from TOOB at the firehall in Tsawwassen recently. These funds will be directed to the Delta Firefighters Healthy Snack program which is currently servicing 28 schools throughout Delta. Sincere thanks to Jim Green and Dave Bliss, both long time TOOB members, for offering this donation to our charity

BOOTH mbooth@delta optimist com

November is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness month and for the fourth straight year six local restaurants are stepping up to help fun draise for the BC Cancer Foundation

The Ladner and Tsawwassen locations of McDonalds and Chopped Leaf, along with the Ladner Dairy Queen and Tsawwassen White Spot, will each be donat ing a percentage of total sales on their designated day to the foundation in support of pancreatic cancer research and care.

The initiative was launched in 2019 in hon our of Ladner resident

and Delta firefighter Thomas Haydon who lost his battle to Pancreatic Neuroendocrine can cer in 2018 at the age of 36. Earlier this year, the City of Delta unveiled a tribute to Haydon inside the Ladner Leisure Centre where he spent much of his life playing and coaching lacrosse, including being the first ever captain of the Delta Junior “A” Islanders.

So far the campaign has raised over $36,000 including a record $16,076 19 in 2021

To support this terrific cause take note of the designated days for each of the participating res taurants: Thursday, Nov. 17: Ladner and Tsawwassen

McDonalds, 10 percent of all sales.

Friday, Nov. 18: Ladner Dairy Queen, 10 percent of all sales Saturday, Nov. 19: Tsawwassen White Spot, 10 percent of all sales, including take out Sunday, Nov. 20: Ladner and Tsawwassen Chopped Leaf, 10 percent of all sales.

Starting today (Nov. 10) until Nov. 18, a special edition fireman ice cream cake will be available at the Ladner Dairy Queen with 50 per cent of each sale being donated to the founda tion As well, each loca tion will be selling purple ribbons for $5 that will also go directly to the final total.

MARK

For the Love of Art Show

JIM KINNEAR PHOTO

Harris Barn in Ladner was packed with art ists and artisans for the fourth annual For the Love of Art Show and Sale last weekend. Pictured is event organizer Jan Rankin, left and local musician Rachael Chatoor.

Sidekick Players had to postpone performances of Outlaw by Norm Foster last Thursday and Friday due to COVID 19 hitting the production team But the show must go on and there will be two more performances added this Friday, Nov 11 and Saturday, Nov 12 at 8 p.m.

There are still seats available for both per formances Call 604 288 2415 to reserve. Tickets are $20 for adults and $18 for seniors and students. Outlaw is directed by Carroll Lefebvre for the Sidekick Players production The play is about a young Canadian homesteader, Bob Hicks, played by Dean

Sanderson travelling far from home who finds himself accused of mur der in the state of Kansas in 1871. He encoun ters Will, played by Jeff Pannell, who is a wrangler in the area and searching for the mur derer of Roland Keet’s brother, played by Brad Felton.

With only his wits to defend himself, Bob turns the law of the land and the men hell bent on enforcing it upside down. Sheriff Dupuis Tarwater, played by Adrian Pryce enters the scene and gives Bob relief as he is about to be hung But does he, or doesn’t he? This authen tic western is a unique

take on the days when guns were the law

The Players also have had to postpone their annual general meeting originally scheduled for Nov 7 to Nov 21 at 7:30 p m This will be a ZOOM meeting only There will be elections for two posi tions, vice president, and secretary. You must be a paid member to vote Memberships can be sent (cheque) to The Sidekick Players Club, 5065 Stevens Drive, Delta, B C V4M 1N8 or e transfer to sidekickplayers@out look com

You must be at least 19 years old to vote, but we welcome any age to get involved when possible Submitted

Mary loves the idea of being around many different people, whether that’s line dancing at the ‘happy hours’ or attending the Brain Game program. She especially loves the fact that while there’s always something to do, you can be as busy or unbusy as you want to be it comes down to finding your own balance of staying social, active, mobile and independent Or as she likes to say, “living the way you want”

Tsawwassen United Church marks 60 years

Tsawwassen United Church (TUC) recently celebrated its 60th anni versary with a delicious lunch and a wall cov ered with old memory pictures of events and people of the past six decades

It is interesting to note, that without the Massey Tunnel, there probably never would have been a United Church in Tsawwassen.

Prior to the tunnel, locals would drive to Ladner to join them, however, the tunnel saw many, many people and businesses, move to the area.

A survey in the early 60s, showed a desire for a church of their own. They started out at Boundary Bay School with regular church services and a Sunday school, but eventually decided to build their own, which they did on today’s site. Since then, it has been extended and upgraded to today’s TUC opposite South Delta Secondary.

With COVID restric tions lifted, the church congregation can now all get together again

Even through these difficult times, the church has kept up its good work

They have joined forces with a couple of other churches to sponsor and finance yet another refugee family; the minister and music director hold services at three different local care homes.

Recently, their annual Fall Fair was held. In previous years, you would not have been able to move inside because of the hordes of people looking for bar gains and home baking and preserves. People are still a little anxious about crowds these days, so some things were not sold. However, they came up with a good idea a table of beautiful coloured home knitted little cardigans, toques, blankets etc were on display after the Sunday service and you could purchase any of these and they would be delivered to Mamas for Mamas a charity that gives out these items to needy mothers, here and around the world

SUBMITTED PHOTO

The congregation at Tsawwassen United Church recently held a celebration to reognize its 60th anniversary.

Bacon Deluxe Bacon Deluxe

McCrispy

“You can do as much or as little as you want.”

SEAN HODGINS Contributing Writer

Travelling to Italy this summer was mostly an excuse to see the beauty of its countryside and experience its cuisine (and a lot of wine), but it also provided an opportunity to see some of the important battlefields of the Second World War

When the Allies invaded Italy in July 1943, the strate gic purpose was to force a German response to defend their Italian ally This would show our then ally, Russia, that we were truly in the fight and help draw German troops away from the eastern front where Russia was engaged in titanic battles such as the Battle of Kursk.

Over the course of 1943 the Americans and British 8th Army, of which the Canadians were in the van, would slowly push the Germans up the Italian boot Allied air bases that would be established in territory captured in Italy would open up a new front in the bombing campaign against Germany and its annexed state of Austria (bases which had more reliable weather than the foggy air bases in England)

Dozens of Commonwealth War Cemeteries mark the course of progressive victories such as the Sangro River War Cemetery and the Moro River Canadian War Cemetery on the Adriatic coast

In 1944 the justification for the Italian campaign and its mounting casualties would shift in advance of the Allied invasion of Normandy The Allies were now motivated to see Germans garrisoning France drawn away to defend an increasingly imperiled south ern flank in Italy

In this effort, Canada contributed greatly, fighting in campaigns such as the Battle of Monte Cassino, which opened the way for the Allied capture of Rome in June 1944, and many other battles

By late 1944 the Canadians shifted back to the Adriatic front There they would fight some of their

costliest battles This is where we went to see the memorials of those forgotten battles.

The Ravenna War Cemetery contains the graves of more than 900 Commonwealth service members that fought in what became known as the River Battles at the end of 1944.

These include many British, Canadian, New Zealander and Indian troops fighting as part of the British Raj The cemetery was both beautiful and inter esting with its other historical markers (such as one commemorating the Jewish Brigade Group) and the Commonwealth War Graves Commission spares no expense in its immaculate upkeep.

Such was the sacrifice of Canadian troops in these battles that another cemetery solely in their honour would be established further west

The Villanova Canadian War Cemetery sits on the site of the original battlefield cemetery established by the 5th Armoured Division where they had made a contested crossing of the River Lamone Eventually 211 Canadians would be buried here in what today is a pastoral agricultural setting

As with my other visits to Commonwealth cemeter ies, it’s a very moving experience to pause and read some of the headstones and imagine the life that was lost. One of these was Trooper R.J. Oldis, British Columbia Dragoons, who was killed 1st of January 1945, aged 24. I imagined the telegram his family would receive within days of his death

As well as being thankful for this sacrifice of gen erations ago, I am thankful to live in peace today in Canada in splendid isolation of a Europe where war may become more common again

SEAN HODGINS PHOTO

Headstone of Trooper R.J. Oldis, British Columbia Dragoons who was killed Jan. 1, 1945 in Italy.

828 Hurricane Air Cadet Squadron alumni leads

effort for modern military monument

PHIL MELNYCHUK Contributing Writer

One of the workhorses of the Canadian mili tary now has a place to rest forever, thanks to the efforts of former Tsawwassen resident Jayson Wood Wood led the cam paign to get a LAV III troop carrier installed at a new monument at the entrance to Morinville, AB, a 20 minute drive from where he served in the army at CFB Edmonton Members and employees of the base will be able to see the vehicle on their com mutes back and forth from home to work.

“Finally, after so many years … it was really

rewarding personally, to see a community come together for something like this,” he said

There were offers for the project to be spon sored, but he and others thought it was more of a community project.

“It’s going to be an iconic reminder that the community is here to support them,” he said Wood started the proj ect in 2016, but the pan demic intervened and money had to be raised

Thanks to the help from the Rotary Club of Morinville Sturgeon, the $350,000 project became a reality and the LAV III now welcomes everyone to the town Wood also saluted the efforts of 1 Service

Battalion, at the base, which converted the machine from active duty to display use

“For myself personally, the whole project was really for my kids,” Wood

said

Wood used to live in Ladner and Tsawwassen, first join ing 828 Hurricane Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron, where he

served from 1999 to 2005 He later signed on with the Canadian army and retired in Edmonton, in 2015.

Wood said that many military memorials dis play equipment that’s 80 years old, dating from the Second World War, which is difficult to relate to for younger people

But variations of the light armoured vehicle, the LAV 6 produced by General Dynamics Land Systems in London, Ont , are still in service, with 500 or so still on duty

The vehicle is also used by the U S Army and is called the Stryker

The eight passenger troop carrier serves across the Canadian mili tary as infantry support,

a command or commu nications post or medi cal vehicle. While they did duty in Afghanistan, the vehicles also help civilians shocked by the Fort McMurray wildfires in 2016 or the floods in Calgary in 2013.

Wood said the LAV’s ability to do multiple roles and take on a vari ety of tasks also resem bles the training of the Canadian soldier, who’s known around the world for her or his breadth of training.

“This vehicle is a strong representation of the work ethic of the Canadian military,” said Wood “The one thing about the Canadian mili tary is that we ’ re known for being cross trained”

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Former Tsawwassen resident Jayson Wood in front of the monument he led a campaign to install in Morinville, AB.

Remembrance Day ceremonies return to pre-pandemic tradition

PHIL MELNYCHUCK Contributing Writer

This year ’ s Remembrance Day cer emonies in Delta will look more like the traditional parade and service from years past, as the pandemic relaxes its grip.

“It’s a return to normal, and we ’ re inviting the general public certainly,” said Gerry Bramhill, with the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 61, Delta All of the groups that joined in the parade prior to the pandemic, have been invited to this year ’ s event, he added, “ so we ’ re expecting a fairly large crowd.”

The procession starts at the Legion in Ladner Village at about 10:30 a.m., on Friday, Nov 11 Participants then will march to the cenotaph in Memorial Park, arriving there at about 10:45 a m However, anyone participating in the parade should arrive at the Legion by 10 a m , in order to get organized Members of the public should get to the cenotaph by at least 10:30 a m

Three squadrons of cadets, Delta Police, cubs, scouts, brownies, girl guides, Delta Fire and Emergency Services and the Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue will be join ing in

As during previous Remembrance Days, members from the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 289 Tsawwassen will be joining in the parade to the cenotaph in Ladner, said Ken Harvey, Legion president

“It’s quite a big parade. It’s quite impressive,” Harvey said

After the parade in Ladner, the Tsawwassen members return to their Legion for a small ceremony at about 1:30 p m , followed by lunch and speeches and the arrival of the Delta Police Pipe Band. Then at 3 p.m. a band takes over in the Legion for more enter tainment and fellowship.

The public is more than welcome to attend.

There will also be entertainment and fellowship at the Ladner Legion follow ing their ceremony

Ladner-born navy vet, remembers war 80 years ago

PHIL MELNYCHUK Contributing Writer

At 100 years old, Leslie Nelson will spend Remembrance Day at the Legion in Ladner, remember ing the days when he did his part in the effort to save the world from Nazism

“There’s not many of us left now, in the Second World War,” he said last week from his home at The Waterford in Tsawwassen

Nelson was born in October 1922 in Ladner and signed on with the Royal Canadian Navy in Vancouver in June 1941 serving until November 1945.

He served on two British ships, the cruiser HMS Phoebe and the minesweeper/sub hunter HMS Elgin, as well as the Canadian frigate, the HMCS Springhill

At the time, Canada had the world’s third largest navy, he pointed out

Wartime duties in the navy were perilous, with tasks such as escorting convoys on the Atlantic to keep them from being blown up by German submarines, as well as hunting the subs

But Nelson sometimes found it kind of boring

“It’s very repetitious what you do Just try and keep the subs down and if they do come up, you try and get them,” he recalled.

Asked if he was scared at the time, Nelson points out he and his shipmates were all between 18 and 20 years

old

“No, I wasn’t scared and I don’t think we thought of it that way much It had its moments you know,” he shared

And while it was hair raising times on the water, they also had shore leave with lots of good times

“It had its bright side as well,” he added.

Nelson was also a ship’s diver, which meant working on the docks as ships were repaired.

During D Day, on June 6, 1944, he was attached to the British navy on submarine patrol off the coast of Norway His job there was to keep the German subs hemmed in around Norway so they couldn’t interfere with the Allied liberation of Europe that started with the D Day seaborne invasion

After the war, he joined thousands of war vets and returned home to build the country and recover from the war.

After initially working as a salesman, he then joined Vancouver Fire Rescue Services where he served 32 years before retiring He got married in 1948 and he and his wife had three children. Now he has grandchildren and great grandchildren

Nelson said he was active his whole life, doing a vari ety of sports, though maybe not excelling in them

“Just remember, that war is not a very nice thing to have happen,” he said “The time spent defending the country was well worth it”

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Ladner’s Leslie Nelson, who recently celebrated his 100th birthday, served in the Second World War.

NOVEMBER 11

Legion Poppy Campaign

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old. Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them.

JIM KINNEAR PHOTO

828 Hurricane Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron members (left to right) Shalesse Beaulieu, Tiwen (Suki) Chen and Kirk Barrett are among the many volunteers to assist with this year’s Royal Canadian Legion Poppy Campaign

PHIL MELNYCHUK Contributing Writer

The Crosses of Remembrance returned to South Delta this week as students and Rotarians continued a long tradition.

Each year, students in the South Delta Secondary Interact Club install crosses that each bear the name of a Delta veteran who died in the First and Second World Wars, the Second South African (Boer) War and Afghanistan.

Forty one crosses were installed Monday in the field near the South Delta Recreation Centre on 56th Street

Interact is a rapidly growing social responsibility club at SDSS with a new record high this year of 70 members from all grade levels.

Valérian Leignel, is Rotary Club of Tsawwassen’s International Exchange Student and Interact member He is studying at SDSS in a cultural and lan guage exchange

He participated in the Remembrance Day cross installation and compared his experience as a stu dent in France in a small village in the

North, Sailly sur la Lys, to the opportu nity students have in Tsawwassen At home, he would usually go to the war monument and listen to the Mayor’s speech, today he observed that, “here, the community gets involved and all these students work together to make it happen. I think it is important for me and for all the other kids to understand

that we have to continue to remember what happens during a war and after so that it never happens again.”

Interact co presidents, Alice Pu and Mateo Mazari commented on behalf of Interact members

“We are honoured to be able to come together with Tsawwassen Rotary every year in collaboration for

setting up the crosses. We believe that the rows of crosses in Tsawwassen are a reminder for ourselves and everyone passing by that our peace, freedom, and privilege today are by virtue of immeasurable bravery and sacrifice of countless people who have served or are serving us today”

To extend the commemoration, Pu will be taking part in the South Delta Remembrance Day as a Cadet and Mazari will join Rotary Club President Blake Cowan, in the wreath laying cer emony.

Cowan, was thrilled to see so many enthusiastic Interactors taking part.

“The reason Rotary sponsors the Interact Club at the high school is to provide opportunities for youth to develop leadership skills by partici pating in fun and meaningful service projects,” said Cowan

“It comes as no surprise to me that Mateo and Alice are setting a great example as leaders both in their school and the community In fact, all the Interactors here today are the embodiment of their motto ‘Service Above Self’ . ”

JIM KINNEAR PHOTO

South Delta Secondary’s Interact Club and the Rotary Club of Tsawwassen teamed up Monday to install 41 crosses to honour Delta’s fallen soldiers The Delta Police Department remembers those who

have served our country, continue to serve our country, and gave their lives for our freedom.

Remembrance Day concert

Augustine House resident, Anne, with a photo of her great uncle Bertie.

Bertie was a Lieutenant Commander in the British Royal Navy. On August 19th, 1942 Bertie went to Dieppe to rescue Canadian soldiers, he was awarded the Victoria Cross.

JIM KINNEAR PHOTO

The Delta Music Makers paid tribute to Remembrance Day and the recent passing of Queen Elizabeth with a special concert last Sunday at KinVillage

JIM SHORT Contributing Writer

As Remembrance Day approaches, I am aware that a diverse group of Delta citizens will gather to remember the sacrifices of people who are named on our cenotaph

This year three names were added of Delta residents who died in service to their country.

Peter Broznitsky our local military historian pointed out that a First Nations veteran is named on our cenotaph. Rifleman Walter Williams of the Chewassen Reserve, newly married, joined the Regina Rifles in 1943.

Landing in Europe after D Day he was killed in action at age 20. Interned in a Canadian War Cemetery in France, it took his widow seven years to receive his ser vice medals.

In battle, soldiers are supposed to look past the race or religion of those they serve with Our skills and commitment, not our ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or spiritual path should be paramount

I say this, yet also knowing that over the centuries, female and minority service members have experienced abuse, discrimination and racism that has at times been condoned, ignored, and protected in a cone of silence by those they serve with or lead them

While ministering in Duncan, B.C., I knew an older First Nations veteran. While deployed he felt accepted by his brothers in arms and was proud to serve, yet when he returned to Canada, his country was lacking in gratitude for his service

Returning to Canada he

was denied the right to vote He could not drink alcoholic beverages with his comrades

On the trip across Canada, he was segregated from those he fought with and was taunted with racial slurs

On the trip from Vancouver to Vancouver Island while his white comrades relaxed on the top deck of the ferry, he was forced to sit on the car deck because he was in his own words “ a good for nothing Indian.”

Then there was my Hamilton Grade School Principal, of Japanese origin born in Canada He was a man of integrity, dignity, and compassion

Later in life I heard his story. Born in Vancouver he and his family were interned at the outbreak of the war Volunteering for military ser vice, he rejected.

CONTINUED: see Page 27

CATHY BONE PHOTO

Padre and war veteran Jim Short

This was common in B.C., which was one of the provinces in Canada that discriminated heavily against its Japanese citizens

While interned his family’s home, business, and possessions were sold to white people for pennies on the dollar

It was only when the Allies turned their attention to the war in the Pacific and there was a shortage of interpret ers that he had reluctantly allowed him to enroll.

Initially Japanese Canadians were encouraged to enroll in the British Army so that they could not demand the vote after the war At wars end the interned Japanese Canadians had two choices deportation to Japan a country many of them had never set a foot in or go “East” of the Rockies That is how he ended up in Hamilton.

In his book We Went to War, Roy Ito writes: “In the newly created United Nations, Canada pledged to support fundamental human rights, the dignity and worth of the human per son, and the equal rights of men and women. Racial prejudice and animosity were no longer popular”

Japanese Canadians gained the right to vote in 1949

First Nations Canadians were not able to vote until 1960

It was not until the 50th Anniversary of The Second World War that that white Canadians began to acknowledge and express appreciation for the service and sacrifice of veterans from minority cultures in our society

I am honoured to gather amidst the incredible diversity of our Delta community on Nov. 11 a diversity of race, gender, and religion.

I will also be aware of how this country that I love and was proud to serve for 26 years all service personnel equally and with respect that has not treated us all equally and with respect and it is still happening today.

As we move into the future, I pray we will celebrate this incredible diversity rather than fearing it I pray for the day in our public ceremonies such as Nov 11 we will honour the spiritualties of our First Nation’s as well as from the Sikh, Hindu, Muslim, Buddhist, Christian, and other traditions that create the beauty of our diverse country.

Community

A picture says a thousand words

While a picture can say a thousand words, so too can actions and gestures

The behaviours, pat terns and interactions in daily life can also say a thousand words While words are important in language and commu nication, they often only go so far and only convey part of the message It is complicated too, because so often our words can have more than one meaning

The intent of the mes sage can be confusing or misleading if we rely solely on words Emails are a classic example of this How often, do we read and re-read an email to try and decipher what the sender of the email really means. Are they upset, being sarcastic, trying to be funny. ? We need more. We need tone of voice, body language

Minister’s Minute

ROBIN RUDER CELIZ

and context to be able to fully understand what the other is saying to us Thus, our actions are important, the nonspoken and non-written language is vital to understanding

A gently placed hand on the shoulder of a friend who is upset, says, and means everything, and is more impactful than any words we may

add at that time As a wise mentor of mine once said, “Robin, all you need to do is show up. You don’t have to say anything, and it is probably best you don’t. All you need to do is show up. ”

Nov 11 is a day when we, along with the rest of the world, are invited to show up and remember those who have lost their lives in conflict around the world and those who still put their lives on the line to ensure the quality of life we all enjoy. It is a day where our actions say a thousand words It is a day when we are invited to show up In our par ticipating in this impor tant day, we pray and hope for a world where armed conflict may cease, and the people of the world can live in harmony. It starts with us showing up

ALL SAINTS ANGLICAN CHURCH

At Home

Exterior renovations that can improve home value

Renovating a home to improve its value can be a smart investment

Interior improvements, such as updating kitchens and baths, offer good return on investment, but there are plenty of exterior renovations that can add value to a home and give it that coveted “ wow ” factor

Landscaping

Abundant and well planned landscaping can instantly boost curb appeal

As buyers use the internet to look for their dream homes, there’s no denying a beauti fully landscaped, nicely pho tographed property can entice buyers to click and read more about a house

Address insects and minor repairs

Improving home value may come down to fixing areas of the home that can negatively affect its appeal to buyers. Hire an inspector to look at key components of the house and

recommend what needs to be fixed This way it is discovered before home buyers come in and do their own inspections.

Termite infestations, deterio rating roofs and hidden water leaks are some things that might need fixing.

Improve the entryway

The front door is the focal point of a home’s exterior Invest in a new door or paint it a striking color to add appeal

Such a door provides visual appeal and added security things buyers look for. In addi tion to the front door, make sure that the entryway has a level walkway, steps that are in good repair, accents that are free from rust or tarnish, and decorative plants

Outdoor lighting

Outdoor lighting can add to the ambiance of a property and serve as a security feature. Utilize different lights, such as a bright light by the entry, uplighting in trees and shrubs for drama, a light lined path

There are plenty of exterior renovations that can add value to a home and give it that coveted “wow” factor

to the door to improve vis ibility, and motion detection lights to improve the security of the property

Repaint (or reside) the exterior

A fresh coat of paint or new (or cleaned) siding can instantly give homes a facelift

Neutral, warm and inviting colors tend to have the widest appeal Adding manufactured stone veneer to the home can offer a 94 9 percent ROI, says Remodeling And after doing the front door and sid ing, investing in a garage door replacement offers the high est ROI of all exterior projects

listed on the “Cost vs Value Report 2019”

This improvement returns 97 5 percent when selling

Knowing which improve ments add value to a home can help homeowners tailor their efforts to those that are most financially beneficial.

Metro Creative

METRO CREATIVE PHOTO

At Home

Homeowners have to protect workers from asbestos exposure

While asbestos related diseases are preventable, asbestos exposure remains the leading cause of work related deaths in B.C. That’s why WorkSafeBC is reminding homeown ers of their responsibility to keep workers safe during demolition and renovation projects.

“Homeowners must get their homes tested for asbestos before renova tion or demolition work begins,” says Suzana Prpic, Senior Prevention Manager at WorkSafeBC “While there are monetary costs associated with asbestos surveying and safe abate ment, the human cost of not doing this is far greater.”

Breathing in asbestos fibres can cause serious health problems includ ing permanent lung damage, lung diseases, and terminal cancer. Most asbestos related diseases have a 20 50 year latency period before they become fatal In the last decade, WorkSafeBC accepted over 1,100 claims for workers who were killed by occupational disease related to asbes tos exposure

Homeowner responsibilities

Prior to beginning a demolition or renovation, homeowners must hire a qualified testing company or asbestos surveyor to identify if asbestos con taining materials (ACMs) will be dis turbed during the work

If ACMs are found, homeowners must then hire a qualified asbestos

abatement contractor to remove and dispose of the materials

“Asbestos is only harmful when materials containing asbestos are dis turbed,” says Prpic

“Often however, ACMs are hiding in plain sight in materials like flooring, tiles, shingles, and light fixtures. That is why it is critical homeowners hire the right experts who know where to look for it, and how to safely remove it”

If a homeowner or renter is hiring worker(s) to work at their personal res idence, they may also be required to register with WorkSafeBC, depending on the nature of work and the length of time a project will take Information on registration requirements can be found on worksafebc com

How common is asbestos in BC homes?

ACMs can be found in more than 3,000 pre 1990s building materials, such as vinyl and linoleum flooring, stucco, insulation, shingles, gypsum board filling compound, incandescent light fixture backings, and deck under sheeting

“There are over 700,000 homes in B C built before 1990, meaning that it’s highly likely that some parts of these homes will contain materials made with asbestos,” says Prpic.

In Greater Vancouver, 32 per cent of homes were built before 1990.

Submitted by WorkSafeBC

At Home

Six steps to organize your home office

Remote working has become popular in recent years, but the “working from home” economy bloomed exponentially as the world was forced to confront the COVID 19 pandemic

The need for home office spaces has increased as more people work from home Many people have retrofitted various spaces around their homes into areas to get work done. More organized home work spaces can increase productivi ty Individuals can follow these guidelines to create effective, organized home offices

Begin with the desk

The desk is the primary spot where work will take place. The right desk accessories can provide visual appeal and also serve practical purposes Have cups for holding pens and pen cils, baskets and bins for larger items, and store whatever you can elsewhere so it does not lead to clutter on the desk Store wireless printers in a cabinet or even on a bookshelf so it doesn’t take up real estate

on the desk

Create a printing station

While you ’ re moving that wireless printer elsewhere, designate a space to serve as the central printing hub This way children who need to print assignments for school will know where to go as well

Printer supplies like extra ink cartridges and printer paper can be kept in decorative stor age boxes nearby.

Increase your shelving

Shelving can help keep items organized and off the desk in home offices without closets or drawers Look for shelves that

blend in with decor but are sturdy enough to be functional.

Organize paperwork

Figure out a system that works for you to help tidy up papers you choose to save While some papers can be scanned and stored as digital files, color coded file folders

can organize statements and other important documents This makes it easy to find the folder you need when looking for certain documents

Establish a charging station

Repurpose certain items, such as a desk organizer, into an easily accessible electronics charging station where phones and tablets can charge at one time

Make essential binders

HGTV suggests making binders that can store the most important papers for easy access and even in an emer gency Set up a binder for auto motive paperwork, including repair receipts, a medical bind er where key medical records are kept, a binder for manuals for devices in the home, and one to store financial planning documents.

These organizational tips can help remedy common problems around a home office

C

Metro Creative

METRO CREATIVE PHOTO

Individuals can follow these guidelines to create effective, organized home offices.

DELTASPORTSSports Shorts

SCOREBOARD

PACIFIC JUNIOR HOCKEY

Tom Shaw Conference

W L T OTL Pts

Richmond 14 4 1 1 30

Delta 14 3 0 0 28

White Rock 8 5 0 1 17

Grandview 7 8 1 1 16

Port Moody 7 11 1 0 15

North Van 6 11 0 1 13

Harold Brittain Conference

Langley 13 4 1 1 28

R Meadows 13 3 0 0 26

Chilliwack 10 6 2 2 24

Mission City 10 6 0 0 20

Aldergrove 6 11 1 1 14

Surrey 4 13 1 0 9

Abbotsford 3 13 0 1 7

HIGH SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL

South Fraser Girls Premier

GP W L Pts

McMath 8 7 1 14

South Delta 8 7 1 14

Pacific Academy 8 5 3 10

Tweedsmuir 8 5 3 10

Earl Marriott 8 3 5 6

Holy Cross 8 2 6 4

Semiahmoo 8 1 7 2 Southridge 8 1 7 2

South Fraser Girls Tier One Grandview 8 8 0 16

Southpointe 9 8 1 16

Delta 9 6 3 12

Fleetwood Park 8 5 3 10

Sands 6 4 2 8

Salish 9 3 6 6

Panorama 7 2 5 4

Elgin Park 9 2 6 4

South Fraser Boys Premier

McMath 9 9 0 18

Seaquam 9 8 1 16

Pacific Academy 9 6 3 12

Elgin Park 9 6 3 6

Delta 9 5 4 10

Steveston-London9 5 4 10

Fraser Heights 9 3 6 6

Sry Christian 9 3 6 6

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL

Western AAA Conference

GP W L Pts

Van College 6 6 0 12

Carson Graham 6 5 1 10

South Delta 6 4 2 8 Notre Dame 6 3 3 6

Mt Doug 6 2 4 4 Belmont 6 1 5 2

FRASER VALLEY SOCCER

Division Two B W T L Pts

Mission SC 8 0 0 24

Ladner FC 6 1 1 19

Surrey United B 5 0 2 15

Pacific United 5 0 3 15

Coastal United 2 2 4 8

SFC Temple SDU

Contact Mark at mbooth@deltaoptimist com or 604 946 4451

SouthDeltaavengeearlierlossesto repeatasSouthFraserchampions

MARK BOOTH mbooth@delta optimist com

The South Delta Sun Devils take momen tum to this week’s B C AAA Field Hockey Championships in Surrey after avenging a pair of regular season defeats to repeat as South Fraser champions

With a roster that fea tures just one Grade 12 player, it’s been a season of learning what it takes to compete against the top teams in the prov ince Their progress was evident at Tamanawis Park two weeks ago with a pair of impressive play off performances

The Sun Devils opened the tournament against Panorama Ridge a team it had earlier squandered a three goal lead against with just 10 available players This time with a full comple ment of players and executing the game plan, it was a much different story.

South Delta neutral ized Panorama’s top three players and made the most of their attack ing opportunities in a convincing 5 1 victory

That set the stage for the title game against host Tamanawis.

“They are tricky in that while they do not play a great ‘team’ game, if they enter the defensive circle they are very adept at scoring,” explained Sun Devils coach Neil

McLennan of the final match up. “Our goal was to limit their entries into our circle and not give up easy penalty corner chances”

South Delta took a 1 0 lead into the second half A terrific clearance by defender Taite Cantlon prevented the equalizer after a rocket shot got past goalkeeper Ineke ter Keurs The Wildcats finally equalized on another corner oppor

tunity

That set the stage for the heroics of Paula Hassen an interna tional student who made her season debut with about 15 minutes to go after being unavailable due to an injury. She sent a cross into the front of the net that found the stick of Nina Dannhauser for the game winning goal

“It was quite a gratify ing outcome as we had

not played particularly well in our last couple of games so it was really nice to see the lessons we had been working at training being imple mented on the field,” added McLennan “The end result was a team that played a nice pass ing game with lots of movement. Defense was solid as well which had been one of our Achilles’ heel”

The provincials got underway yesterday at Tamanawis and wrap up on Friday with place ment games

The team also features: Grade 12 Alexis Kamiya Grade 11 Georgia Roberts, Olivia de Albuquerque, Madeline Plante, Ashley Fincham, and Anna Sonnenberg Grade 10 Madeline Turner, Lili Weber, Teagan Alexander Reid and Brooklyn Kuchma Grade 9 Kassandra Sharpe International student Hannah Kocherscheidt

Pacers, Titans & Sun Devils taking aim at B.C. volleyball berths

South Fraser championship banners and B C berths will be on the line next week as the high school volleyball season for senior teams hits the homestretch.

The South Fraser boys AAA tournament gets underway on Monday and is easily the most competitive zone in the province with five teams currently in the top 10 of the pro vincial rankings including the No 6 Delta Pacers.

The No 2 ranked McMath Wildcats from Richmond will be the team to beat

while Delta is joined by No. 7 Elgin Park, No 8 Seaquam Seahawks and No 10 Steveston London Sharks as other contend ers looking to secure trips to the B C AAA Championships later this month in Kelowna. The final is slated for next Thursday (Nov 17) at McMath

Meanwhile, the No 3 ranked South Delta Sun Devils will look to repeat on home floor at the South Fraser AAAA Girls Championships

The Sun Devils have a bye directly to Tuesday’s semi finals (7:30 p m ) The title game goes the same time on Wednesday. The tier for the largest schools in the prov

ince is dominated by Kelowna area schools with Okanagan Mission (No 1), Mount Boucherie (No. 3) and Kelowna (No. 4) sur rounding South Delta in the latest rankings Okanagan Mission is also hosting provin cials

At Southpointe Academy, the host and No 5 ranked Titans will be looking to secure a trip to the B C “A” Championships as they host the three team South Fraser playoffs Southpointe will play the winner of Surrey Christian and White Rock Christian in the final next Wednesday at 6:30 p m

The South Fraser Grade 8 and Junior championships are taking place this week

MARK BOOTH

SUBMITTED PHOTO

South Delta is wrapping up its season at this week’s provincial tournament.

REMEMBRANCES

Fond

memories linger every day, Remembrance keeps them near.

is

All advertising published in this

on the premise that the

offered

left schoo to work at Loblaw’s n hs home town before strikng out to numerous stores in the big city of Toronto where at 20 years, he was lkely the youngest manager n the chain Around that time he met hs ife long partner What had originally started as a friendship turned nto a beautfu love story Ron and Louise were marred in 1960 and over the next 62 years were blessed with two sons and five grandchidren

Ron left the grocery word to go into saes wth Tuckett’s Tobacco and was transferred to Sudbury and when it eventually merged with Imperal Tobacco, Ron found hmself working agan n the Toronto area The good part was that he and Louise were able to purchase hs family home and he was back where he started in Newmarket And it was here that Ron found the Lions Club He loved ths association and devoted hs time serving as secretary drector and establshed the first Leo Club in the York area He was honoured to serve as Presdent as wel After a short stint in Ancaster he took a transfer and moved his family to Britsh Coumba on January 1 1976

After a few years corporate lfe was takng unappreciated demands on hs famly and he decided a change of careers was necessary It took two years to write and pass hs rea estate exam and during that time he cut grass and cared for rose gardens eventually bulding a cientele that woud folow him to his new career He loved beng a realtor, he loved the purchasers, the sellers and his coleagues The connecton was reciprocated when a book published this year by felow realtor, Sharon Mason, descrbed Ron as a “lovely man”

Ron’s dream had aways been to retre before sixty years of age He was about to turn 59 years old, and realizing that he needed hep with the decision, Louse stepped forward She took one of his For Sale signs and hammered t nto the front awn The house sold n three days Louise took a eave of absence from her position and plans were made Although they had traveled in tent traiers and camper vans they needed somethng more substantial and their Okanagan 5th wheel became their home for the next 6 1/2 months traveling across Canada, to Key West Forida, to Arizona and back to the Pacific Coast and finally home That winter Ron dscovered hs ove for wood carvng and was able to study his new craft under the watchfu eye of a Master Carver, Norm White Arriving home Louse gave him a week to find a vounteer job that woud occupy his tme whie she returned to her old positon He didn’t need a week It took a few hours and he had an intervew wth the B C Parks Host Program He became the newest Host at Sasquatch Provincia Park a postion he enjoyed more than anythng in this word He lved in the Park seven days a week from md Apri to Thanksgiving The Sasquatch staff, the campers, the chldren, the birds, the anmas, the hkng, t al contrbuted to the continuation of a wonderful retrement Because Louise was stil enoying employment she oned hm on the weekends In the winter Ron would head to the Arzona desert and set up camp next to a creosote bush or a cactus Out woud come hs BC Parks Ambassador sgn on to the picnic table and folks would venture n to share their story Ron had a magnetc personalty; he colected new friends wherever he went He had a great sense of humour, always tellng stories and making hs chidren and grandchldren augh Famiy was so important to him and he loved them al to pieces His sons are so much like ther Dad Frends and acquaintances knew him as the kindest man, aways postve, happy, and content wth ife Even n the last several years when he fought to stay heathy, he demonstrated to others what t meant to be gratefu and to love life every day

On Louse’s retirement, Ron was ntroduced to awn bowlng and he went kickng and screaming, mosty that he wasn’t yet od enough to join It took a few tmes on the green before he realized what he had been mssng He nvoved himsef n as many functons that he could and to this day the famiy hears comments on what a wonderful coach he had been With Ron as the captain and Louise as the navgator, they camped for 25 days in a caravan throughout The Baja Mexico and then the Yukon Alaska Haida Gwai Newfoundand and the Bahamas

Ron passed away peacefully on May 30, 2022, survived by his sweetheart and hs beoved dog, Dasy, his sons Ron (Cheryl Harvey), grandchldren Meodie, Relly and Tyler, and Darcy (Patt Elis), grandchidren Emma and Krkland He is survived by hs brother Wayne and wfe Ursula and ssters and brothers n law; Rose and Rck Alan, Janet and Bob Wlson, Cathy and Gary Stamp, Eula and Joe Jones, and Marlene Clow

The Dewsbury family would lke to thank all our frends and family, as wel as al the doctors, nurses, hospita workers and care aides who provded nvaluabe care to Ron A specal thanks to Dr Brad Turner and Dr Jennfer Kinke for their wonderfu care, and to Dr John Hwang of

DEWSBURY, Ronald Ernest

Ronad Ernest Dewsbury was born June 26, 1938 n Newmarket, Ontario Hs beautfu parents Ernie and Verna created a oving home for him that he emulated for hs own famly As a young boy Ron delivered groceries on his bicycle, and as a teenager htch hked to Holand Landing where he worked long days pulng carrots, and he operated a mlk run in the Sutton area ong before he attaned his drver’s lcence He eventualy

May 4th, 1960 October 6th, 2022

On October 6th, our beloved Land passed away surrounded by the love of her life four chldren and sister Louise Landi was predeceased by parents Howe and Lorraine Howard and father n law A Bruinink She leaves behind her husband, Martin; chidren Nque (Hunter Oivia Lukas) Cole and wife Jess (Addie, Sadie), Stephanie and husband Greg (Jeremy, Emma), Sydney and husband Taylan (Aubree); sibings Jacky, Mike and Louise, mother n aw Flora and al the extended family that surrounded her over the years

Landi was born in Edmonton, Aberta, spent a few years in Germany, then moved back to the prairies before finding her forever home in Tsawwassen There she met her true ove and formed lifelong friendships She had a long professional career, but her most treasured role was that of Nana Land to her 8 grandchildren Vivacious and admirabe, she was a ight to be around Land has touched the ives of so many in her short 62 years She wil be greatly mssed and thought of often

We as a famiy wsh to thank the home health paliatve team and the rene Thomas Hospice for their sncere support

honour, wl be held n the sprng of 2023

In Loving Memory of CURRIE, Amanda Jane

June 16, 1969 October 11, 2022

It’s with great sorrow that we announce the passng of Amanda She leaves behind her pride and oy son, Jesse She also leaves behnd her nece Ashy, sister Brenda, father Joe, brother Dean, brother n law Randy, a nephew, niece, cousins, and her partner of 8 years, Glenn Amanda also had sisters and brother, auntes, uncles, and cousins, who adored her on the Henry side of the Famly She had many friends and acquaintances she grew up with and met aong the way Amanda had a passion for drawng and horses She aso was very proud of her Indigenous Heritage

She wl be deepy mssed by al We wil miss your unmistakabe laughter and BIG HUGS

Thank you to the RCH Cardio ICU, Doctors and Nurses And a specal thank you to Rta for going above and beyond

She

Celebraton of ife wil be held at the Fisherman’s Hal (Deta) on January 7, 2023 (time pending)

January 9, 1937 October 31, 2022

Our hearts are broken by the passing of our dear and beloved Mom, Grandma, and G G on Monday, October 31, 2022 at 85 years Born and raised in Ladner, B C

Margaret was pre deceased by husband Gordon and is survved by her daughter Toni (Hugh) and sons Lance and Bil (Jo Dee), grandchidren Juli (Devin), Bradley and Lance Jr, and by her great grandson Tucker, in addition to her sister Maureen and very specia neces and nephews

Many thanks to the Doctors and Nurses n Neurology at Surrey Memorial for ther amazng efforts and ovng care

There wil be no service by request In leu of flowers, donations may be made to your charity of choice

BRUININK, Yulanda (Landi) Yvette

A Celebraton in Landi’s

DOBRILLA, Michelle (Kjar)

October 15, 1959 October 25, 2022

Wth deepest sadness we announce the sudden but peaceful passing of our dearest Friend, Mother to Lucas and Bailey, Grandmother to Odn, Sster and Aunt

was our lil’ firecracker that had stores that would realy make your bely ache, and your short and curies stand on end

STANLEY, Margaret Ann (nee Tara)