Delta Optimist January 19 2023

Catalyticconverter theftsontheriseinDelta

IAN JACQUES ijacques@delta-optimist com

Delta Police are issuing a public information warning about the high number of recent catalytic converter thefts

DPD say since Jan 1, the department has received 33 reports of catalytic converter thefts Most of these thefts have occurred overnight and are spread throughout South and North Delta Police say catalytic converters are stolen because they contain several precious metals more valuable than gold As of December 2022, rhodium was worth $12,600/ounce, palladium $1,854/ounce, and platinum $1,021/ounce (USD).

“As thieves need access to the underside of a vehicle to steal a catalytic converter, vehicles with higher platforms are the most targeted,” said Acting Insp. James Sandberg in a news release “While various makes and models are targeted, Hyundai and

Kia SUVs remain the highest targeted vehicles. Cutting and removing a catalytic converter from a vehicle takes less than one minute”

Sandberg says Delta Police utilizes proactive policing strategies and also deploys plain-clothes officers who conduct targeted enforcement on known property crime offenders to prevent such thefts. However, the DPD believes that the high value of the catalytic converters and the ability to rapidly remove them from a vehicle has potentially increased the number of unknown offenders stealing them

“The DPD is working to bring awareness to the catalytic converter theft trend witnessed this year. We encourage our community to be our partners in preventing such thefts by considering some tips we offer,” added Sandberg Tips to prevent catalytic converter thefts:

* park in a well-lit area or a garage

* park with your

vehicle in view of a CCTV security camera

* pay attention to odd sounds, such as a batterypowered saw or grinder

* have an auto shop engrave your vehicle’s identification number onto your catalytic converter; this improves the likelihood of identifying a converter following a theft

* purchase an aftermarket protective shield that adds a layer of security to your catalytic converter

The DPD also encourages residents to immediately report any suspicious activity, such as a car idling with a driver in it while a passenger has exited and is casing vehicles In such instances, the DPD asks that you call 911 to report what may be a theft in progress so that our team can catch those responsible

If you know of someone committing catalytic converter thefts but wish to remain anonymous, you can report it to Crimestoppers at 1-800222-8477

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Elvis Aloha from Hawaii

JIM KINNEAR PHOTO

Ladner native Eli Williams was back in his hometown for an electric performance at Genesis Theatre Saturday night with his Elvis Aloha from Hawaii show. See more on page 27 and photos from the concert on our website at www.delta-optimist.com.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING – TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2023

NoticeisherebygiventhatDeltaCityCouncilwillholdaPublicHearingtoreceiverepresentationsfromanypersonswhodeemitintheirinteresttoaddressCouncilregardingthefollowingproposed projects.ACouncilmeetingisscheduledtoimmediatelyfollowthisPublicHearingintheeventCouncilwishestogivefurtherconsiderationtotheproposedprojects.

Date: Tuesday,January24,2023 Time: 4:00pm Place: CouncilChamber&Virtual/Zoom DeltaCityHall,4500ClarenceTaylorCrescent,Delta,BC

WATCH LIVE: ThisPublicHearingwillbebroadcastliveatwwwdeltaca/watchlive MembersofthepublicwhodonotwishtospeakmaylistenandwatchtheproceedingsontheCity'swebsite VideorecordingsarearchivedontheCity’swebsite ThisPublicHearingistobeconvenedbyelectronicmeansasauthorizedbytheCouncilProcedureBylawNo5000

Project No 1 (File No. LU009267)

Location: 11096RiverRoad(OlafStokkelandResidence)

Applicant: JeremyStam,Buro47ArchitectureInc Telephone: 604-943-1213

Proposal: Application for Rezoning, Heritage Revitalization Agreement and Development Permit to allow subdivision into two residentiallots.

Delta Zoning Bylaw No 7600, 2017, Amendment Bylaw No 8187, 2022

ToamendDeltaZoningBylawNo 7600,2017byrezoningthesubject site fromSingleDetached Residential 1 (RS1) to Single Detached Residential4(RS4)forthelandsidentifiedas“Lot1”andtorezone thelandsfromRS1toSingleDetachedResidential6(RS6)forthe lands identified as “Lot 2” on the map to allow subdivision of the property into two lots and the construction of a single detached dwelling with an in-ground basement and a secondary suite on proposed Lot 1 The existing heritage house (Olaf Stokkeland Residence)wouldberelocatedtoproposedLot2andsituatedona new foundation designed with an in-ground basement for a secondarysuite

Heritage Revitalization Agreement Bylaw No 8188, 2022

Heritage Revitalization Agreement Bylaw No 8188, 2022 would implementaHeritageRevitalizationAgreementbetweentheCityof Delta and the owners The Bylaw would have the effect of varying aspectsof“DeltaZoningBylawNo 7600,2017”inreturnforspecific heritageconservationmeasuresfortheheritagehome

Development Permit LU009267

Development Permit LU009267 would protect the proposed development on the subject site from hazardous conditions associatedwithslopestabilitythroughsitinganddesigncontrolasit is located within the FraserRiverEscarpment (ND1)Development PermitArea

Staff Contact: AdaLiu–604-946-3395

Project No 2 (File No. LU009412)

Location: 435564Street

Applicant: HowardSmid,HSmidEnterprisesLtd Telephone: 604-644-2754

Proposal: Application for Official Community Plan Amendment,Rezoning,andDevelopmentVariancePermitto allowsubdivisionintotworesidentiallots.

The Corporation of Delta Official Community Plan No 3950, 1985, Amendment Bylaw No 8206, 2023

Toamend“TheCorporationofDeltaOfficialCommunityPlan No 3950,1985:”

1 tochangethelandusedesignationofthesubjectsitefrom Single Family Residential (SFR) to Infill Single Family Residential(ISF) and amendthe East LadnerFuture Land UsePlan;and

2 toexemptthesubjectsitefromPolicyCoftheEastLadner AreaPlantoallowthelotdimensionstovary morethan15 percent from the residential properties within 150 m of the subjectsite

Delta ZoningBylawNo 7600, 2017, AmendmentBylawNo 8207, 2023

Toamend“DeltaZoningBylawNo 7600,2017”byrezoningthe subject site from Agriculture (A1) to Single Detached Residential 6 (RS6) in order to allow subdivision and constructionofanewsingledetacheddwellingoneachlot

Development Variance Permit LU009412

To vary Section 73 of Schedule A and Drawing L214 of ScheduleCin“DeltaSubdivisionandDevelopmentStandards Bylaw No 7162, 2015” by reducing the minimum pavement widthalongthe64Streetfrontagefrom12mto9m

Staff Contact: ToryLawson–604-946-3326

Project No 3 (File No. LU009040)

Location: 10555 64 Avenue and Unaddressed Parcel PID #000-985-112

Applicant: Duncan Wade, QRD (DeltaFresh)Holdings Inc

Telephone: 604-362-8358

Proposal: Application for Rezoning, Development VariancePermit,DevelopmentPermitandSubdivisionto allow consolidation of the subject properties into one development site and construction of a new agricultural food storage and processing facility with environmental andagriculturallandscapebuffers.

Delta ZoningBylawNo 7600, 2017, AmendmentBylawNo 7975, 2022

To amend “Delta Zoning Bylaw No 7600, 2017” by rezoningthesubjectpropertiesfromAgriculture(A1)zone to a new Agriculture Product Management (A4) zone in ordertopermitacoldstoragewarehouseandprocessing facilityforfruits,vegetablesanddairyproducts

Development Variance Permit LU009040

To vary Section 842 in “Delta Zoning Bylaw No 7600, 2017” by reducing the minimum number of required parkingspacesfrom210to133

Development Permit LU009040

Development Permit LU009040 would address Streamside Protection and Enhancement Area requirements Staff Contact: TanyaMitchner–604-952-3472

IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING THE PUBLIC HEARING

Materialsrelatedtotheprojectssuchasthestaffreport,proposed bylaw, detailed maps and other information may be inspected at DeltaCityHall,4500ClarenceTaylorCrescent,Delta,BC, Monday toFriday excludingstatutoryhoidaysfrom8:30am to4:45pm fromThursday,January12,2023toTuesday,January24,2023 Materialsmayalsobeviewedatwwwdetaca/publichearing

Ifyouhave ageneralinquiry regarding the proposed projector f youwouldlike assistance to inspectany relevant documentation, please contact the Community Planning and Development Department by email at cpd@deltaca or by phone at 604-9463380

CorrespondenceaddressedtoCouncilwillform partofthepublic recordforthisPublicHearingand must include your name and full address, and be received by the Office of the City Clerk no laterthan10:00a m Tuesday,January24,2023 Tobeincluded in the Agenda, correspondence must be received before 12:00 p m on Wednesday, January 18, 2023

OncethePublicHearinghasconcluded,nofurtherinformationor submissionsmaybeconsideredbyCouncil

RiverRoadparkingrulesangerstrailvisitors

WEBSITE

It’s aimed at alleviating illegal parking and traffic problems on a narrow rural road, but not everyone is happy about the City of Delta’s solution

The city has been receiving complaints from those wanting to access the Brunswick Point trail at the end of River Road Some are not pleased about no parking signage on the road, having to now walk to the trail from a new parking lot built farther away

The Optimist has also received several letters in opposition by those saying they are being punished by the change.

The city for over a year went through a design phase and consultation with the local farming community on the new parking lot located at River Road near the intersection of 30B Street The city’s Agricultural Advisory Committee also provided input.

Due to safety concerns, the city installed no parking signs on the road near the popular nature trail where parking was never allowed in the first place.

ity for vehicles to turn around and the shared road ownership with the Tsawwassen First Nation Staff then proposed constructing a new parking area at 30B Street and limiting existing on-street parking.

Carriers

It was aimed at curbing parallel-parked cars blocking driveways and farm vehicles from accessing the road

Staff reviewed the possibility of a parking area at the south end of 34th Street, but it wasn’t seen as a viable option due to several reasons including its narrow width and large ditches, no abil-

Delta Farmers’ Institute president Jack Bates told the Optimist farmers don’t have a problem with visitors wanting to access the area, but the situation has been bad with farming vehicles blocked from accessing fields and a lack of parking enforcement and towing

“Nobody wants to shut people out, but they should be able to appre-

ciate if farmers can’t get to their fields, then we ’ re the losers. This industry is tough enough as it is without being denied access to farms People, I know, are not intentionally clogging roads up, but look at how wide some of these farm vehicles are, so if both sides of the road are parked up, or one side is parked up and there’s a telephone poll on the other, what do you do?” asked Bates

Noting the city should have a public information campaign including an information kiosk on site, Bates also suggested a second access to the trail would help alleviate the complaints

In a response to recent letter writers who expressed frustration to the city, engineering director Steven Lan responded that the road is narrow in places and the availability of parking on the road shoulder varies from section-tosection

Continued problems have been noted with vehicles illegally parked, blocking driveway access, impeding farm equipment and creating unsafe situations for pedestrians and drivers.

Although more pronounced during the pandemic, the issues were present prior to the pandemic as well, explained

Lan.

To find a suitable solution, in addition to the new parking lot, accessible parking was retained close to the trailhead and an improved access ramp was constructed for those with mobility challenges, Lan noted.

A safe walking access beside the road has also been provided and plans are also underway to provide improved connectivity along the dike from the parking lot, said Lan, adding that it is a longer walk to the trailhead from the previous general parking area, but provides residents and visitors with a safe parking area and walking route

SANDOR GYARMATI sgyarmati@delta-optimist com

MARK BOOTH PHOTO

According to the city, there had been ongoing problems with vehicles illegally parked on River Road, blocking driveway access, impeding farm equipment and creating unsafe situations for pedestrians and drivers.

Signature Series Cellular Shade Pictured

TFN’s Kim Baird among B.C. Reconciliation Award recipients NOTICEOFFIRST,SECONDANDTHIRDREADINGS

MARK BOOTH mbooth@delta-optimist com

BylawNo.8203

FileNo.:LU009045

Location:1092584Avenue

Applicant:JimmyLee,TerraNobisConsultingInc Purpose:TorezonethesubjectpropertyfromSingleDetachedResidential1(RS1) toSingleDetachedResidential7(RS7)inordertopermitsubdivisionintotwosingle detachedresidentiallots.ThisbylawisconsistentwiththeOfficialCommunityPlan.

Former Tsawwassen First Nation Chief and current Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) chancellor Kim Baird is among the 2022 recipients of the B.C. Reconciliation Award.

Baird and other winners were honoured during a ceremony at Government House on Thursday, Jan. 12.

efforts

Baird was recognized for being an accomplished leader, a respected advocate for Indigenous people, and for her work in Reconciliation.

She is a graduate of KPU, receiving the Distinguished Alumni award in 2012.

took place

On behalf of TFN, she negotiated B.C’s first urban modern treaty, which came into effect in April, 2009.

BylawNo.8216

FileNo.:LU009449

Location:747ClivedenPlace

Applicant:DarrenSauer,WalesMcLellandConstructionCo(1988)Ltd. Purpose:TorezonethesubjectpropertyfromMediumImpactIndustrial(I2)Zone toComprehensiveDevelopmentZoneNo.26(CDZ26)inordertopermittheuses currently permitted in the Medium Impact Industrial (I2) Zone and add “Electric VehicleResearchandSales”and“HydrogenVehicleResearchandSales”aspermitted principaluses.ThisbylawisconsistentwithDelta’sOfficialCommunityPlan.

The B.C. Reconciliation Award is a partnership between the Office of the Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia and the BC Achievement Foundation. It recognizes individuals, groups and organizations that have demonstrated exceptional leadership, integrity, respect and commitment to furthering reconciliation or inspired others to continue reconciliation

Her life work has provided a foundation that will create the opportunity for the process of Reconciliation to exist and thrive. This includes acknowledging that First Nations have a right to self-determination, a quality of life equal to all, and in partnership with all people.

At the age of 28, Baird was the elected Chief of TFN She held the position for six terms, from 1999 to 2012.

In that role her most notable achievements towards Reconciliation

The treaty provided unprecedented benefits and opportunities, and her leadership contributed to TFN being one of the most progressive First Nations in Canada She says, “true Reconciliation” means “ no longer being tethered to the Indian Act, and gaining access to financial resources and economic opportunities, and to services and programs for TFN members”

Thursday’s ceremony also honoured the 2021 recipients Guest speakers included Lt Gov Janet Austin, Hereditary Chief Sophie Pierre, T’esóts’en Patrick Kelly, Premier David Eby and Kúkpi7 Rosanne Casimir

Materialsrelatedtothebylawamendmentssuchastheproposedbylaws,detailed maps and other information may be inspected at Delta City Hall, 4500 Clarence Taylor Crescent, Delta, BC, Monday to Friday, excluding statutory holidays from 8:30a.m.to4:45p.m.fromThursday,January12,2023toMonday,January23,2023.

Ifyouhaveaquestionregardingtheproposedbylawamendmentsorifyouwould liketoinspectanyrelevantmaterials,pleasecontacttheCommunityPlanningand DevelopmentDepartmentbyemailatcpd@delta.caorbyphoneat604-946-3380.

SANDOR GYARMATI sgyarmati@delta-optimist com

A major upgrade project will be getting underway this year at the Ladner Leisure Centre.

The City of Delta has issued a request for proposals for a construction contract to undertake rehabilitation and mechanical upgrades.

The work generally consists of the exterior envelope replacement works, encompassing the upper level wall and glazing assemblies of the pool enclosure, a pressure plate barrel shaped roof as well as a number of separate membrane roof assembles.

In addition, mechanical work, including the expansion of existing supply air ducting within the pool space and the introduction of UV water treatment systems, have been included in the overall project scope

Construction is scheduled to start this April and wrap up by late September.

The city says that once a full construction plan is in place, residents will be notified of

any closures to the facility.

The city’s 2023 financial plan, approved by council, has $5 million set aside for the project

The city last year awarded a $354,844 contract for detailed design and construction administration services for

the Ladner Leisure Centre natatorium repairs

Staff earlier in 2022 discovered an issue at the facility where an outside section of the swimming pool chamber roof (natatorium), specifically the soffit, had detached from the building

A report to council at the time noted staff initiated an immediate assessment of the damage and potential causes for the failure The city hired a roofing contractor to remove the debris and temporarily secure the building envelope. Facility operations were

not impacted and the facility remained open while staff continued their investigations into what additional repairs were required

The architectural firm awarded the detailed design and construction administration contract had also been selected by the city for the schematic design services, which cost almost $60,000

“The detailed investigations have confirmed that the extent of required rehabilitation work involves replacement of: windows (glazing) throughout the pool area, stucco covered exterior walls systems, structural steel roofing components, the pool area metal roof, and the pool skylight It has been identified that portions of the required rehabilitation work, such as the pool area metal roof, may not be immediately necessary as part of the envelope repairs; however, due to their current condition and structural connection with the failure zones, the work must be completed as part of the overall rehabilitation work,” the report explained

FILE PHOTO

The City of Delta has issued a request for proposals for a contract to undertake rehab work and mechanical upgrades to the Ladner Leisure Centre.

Tsawwassen office building proposal prompts petition

SANDOR GYARMATI sgyarmati@delta-optimist com

Delta staff are continuing to review feedback on a proposed new multi-storey office and retail building for a Tsawwassen corner and there is no timeline yet when a report will be coming to council

That was the update from community planning director Marcy Sangret at the Jan. 9 council meeting in response to several letters of opposition in council’s agenda package, saying staff are analyzing the feedback and will bring the information back to the applicant for further discussion

The application has not been before council for preliminary consideration

Several residents opposed to the proposal are conveying a series of concerns including the appropriateness of an office building at

that site. Council also received a petition in opposition.

The application, which requires a public hearing as it does not comply with the current Official Community Plan, proposes the three-and-a-half storey building at 1170 53A Street, located at the southeast corner of 12th Avenue and 53A Street.

Comprising 41,441-square-feet of retail/office building area, the project site is comprised of two properties, which would be consolidated.

The developable portion of the site is located along the west portion fronting 53A Street. The property at 5360 12th Avenue contains an older two-storey commercial building and the property at 1170 53A Street contains a twostorey single-detached dwelling, both of which would be demolished.

After the application was submitted in 2021

and a public notification was sent out, the city received almost a dozen pieces of correspondence

“Key comments received indicated support for redevelopment of the site, but opposition or concern about storey height, building design, exterior finishes, massing and scale and an office building at this location The proposal remains for a three-anda-half storey building, however, the applicant has responded to the community concerns by making significant changes to the building design, form and character, exterior finishes and colour palette from the original design,” a previous planning department report notes

The main entrance and lobby of the building has been relocated to the northeast corner along 12th Avenue

A public information meeting was held last November

A photo of a proposed new multi-storey office and retail building In Tsawwassen located at the southeast corner of 12th Avenue and 53A Street

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Residents’ group asks for rejection of

development proposal

A local residents’ group has formed seeking a rejection of the proposed six-storey mixed-use development application at the current Dunbar Lumber site on Elliott Street in Ladner.

The Friends of Ladner Village - a Delta community group – is requesting that Delta council rejects the current proposal as the group says it drastically changes the look and feel of the Ladner Village core.

According to a news release, issued to the Optimist Monday, The Friends of Ladner Village are canvassing the community, circulating a petition and urging residents to immediately write to mayor-council@delta. ca with their comments by this Sunday, Jan. 22.

“Although we acknowledge the need for waterfront development and access to accessible,

affordable housing as per the new Official Community Plan guidelines, this project does not in our opinion, meet these requirements,” says Friends of Ladner Village spokesman, Brian Webb.

The Friends of Ladner Village have a number of revision requests to the application which includes:

* A reduction of overall height and density (six storey’s is too high and too many units)

* A revision to the building form and scale (loss of heritage feel and vertical encroachment)

* An overall downtown core traffic study and how this site impacts that study prior to approval

* A traffic/parking study must also include a real life parking requirement that accounts for surrounding resident parking to access local businesses

* No relaxation of visitor parking or resident parking requirements

* No relaxation of DDC (development costs) or in cash lieu/amenity contribution funds from the developer

* A public hearing on final design to discuss all the above points in detail prior to approval

“The interests of the developer are being catered to rather than those of the community,” adds Ladner resident Bev Yaworski “There is a failure to consider history in this design with a push for density over a good heritage design and the wishes of the community-at-large, who care deeply about their Village.”

To contact Friends of Ladner Village email: reynoldsdoug9@gmail com.

-Submitted by Friends of Ladner Village

SANDOR GYARMATI PHOTO

Residents view information boards at a public information meeting on Jan. 11 at the Ladner Community Centre.

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

Howtostop thesethefts?

IAN JACQUES

Another government failure is in the spotlight this week here in Delta

If you haven’t seen this week’s front page story yet, let me enlighten you

Catalytic converter thefts are up big time this month, so much so, that it has prompted Delta Police to issue an information blitz for residents

I knew it was bad when I was editing the Crime Beat last week when practically the whole report for South Delta was about catalytic converter thefts. But little did I know how dire the situation was when less than 24 hours later a press release landed in my in-box

According to police, since Jan 1, the department has received reports of 33 catalytic converter thefts The thefts have taken place mostly overnight and have been spread throughout Ladner, Tsawwassen and North Delta. By the way, there were six more reports in this week’s South Delta Crime Beat

So why the recent rise in thefts you may ask? Police say catalytic converters are stolen because they contain several precious metals more valuable than gold.

Catalytic converter thefts have been an issue for years. Thefts climbed around the province from 89 in 2017 to 1,953 in 2021 and ICBC claims have skyrocketed

To combat the thefts, last March the province introduced a measure whereby all registered metal dealers needed to report to police every transaction –including information about the sellers

Big deal What has this done?

Nothing In fact, I think the situation has gotten even worse

It’s just more government hot air when it comes to policies and supports to get tough on crime.

I don’t have the answers and clearly neither does our provincial government

When it comes to these thefts and other petty thefts, the criminals continue to win while the average citizen continues to lose.

There are simple solutions to help with food costs

The Optimist’s Jan 12 cover story brought home the real difficulties that many families in our communities are facing. The pressures of inflation, supply chain issues, political unrest, climate change and indeed war, are all contributing to a daunting current state of affairs

As the story noted, salaries are not keeping pace with inflation and many families are unfortunately having to make decisions on food choice as opposed to fixed costs such as rent and utilities

These fiscal decisions can often lead to food insecurity scenarios which are rising here in British Columbia and elsewhere Food insecurity can lead to making unplanned food purchasing decisions

When you should be putting an $8 two-litre jug of milk on the table for your kids at dinner time you may have to instead opt for the $1.25 twolitre bottle of Coke Your kids may think that is great, but the long-term health implications are very real for these types of unsustainable menu choices.

The $5 head of Romaine lettuce, which thousands of kids

in Delta can tell you is one of the most healthy leaf lettuces to consume, is likely off the menu these days If you are looking for beef as part of the family protein offering, you are probably walking past that cooler towards the chicken

Globally, grain is gradually making its way out of the Black Sea to Africa where millions have been starving. The recent rains in California, the breadbasket for North America, have slightly downgraded drought status there Even with three feet of rain since Christmas, experts believe it will take several seasons of this type of rainfall for the drought to diminish significantly This rain has primarily fallen on the west-

ern side of the Sierra Nevada range The eastern side where the fertile valleys and the two biggest reservoirs in North America exist, is still struggling.

There are simple solutions we can all benefit from to ease the pain somewhat

During the Christmas break I was happy to see many of my young farming friends at the mall, grocery store and elsewhere It was great to meet some parents and hear some of their “Farmer Mike” stories

One mom was proud to say that their eight-year-old daughter would prepare “Farmer Mike’s most excellent cucumber salad” once a week

Another mom and dad noted that their two sons would never eat vegetables until the boys demanded that mom and dad build a raised bed in the backyard, which they did during the summer Now the boys plant, nurture, harvest and eat every vegetable they grow.

This is a simple solution that can help with food costs, promote life skills, and encourage nutritional health A small initial investment will pay for itself quickly in today’s economy.

MIKE SCHNEIDER

Hereiswhythereisa stopsignonImperialHill

Editor: Peter Thoss’s letter

“What is up with this stop sign?” (Optimist, letters, Jan 12) needs a clear answer.

Back in the mid 60’s the newly opened 52nd St’s Imperial Hill, saw cars speeding up and down the road The location at the crest of the hill, was the confluence of Uplands Drive and a public footpath from Cliff Place to 52nd, meant a probability of a serious

The

Editor: Global TV News aired a story on Jan. 10 that showed Delta Coun Dylan Kruger wanting a new overpass/on-ramp from Ladner via River Road to the 99 northbound Transportation Minister Rob Fleming has said this on-ramp is contingent on federal funding and is not in the current plan The proposed on-ramp would be an extension of River Road near the existing exit 29 south off ramp.

Why would any traffic engineer put an on-ramp only 500 metres away from an existing on-ramp at 17A? That makes no sense

accident would happen sooner, rather than later It did

A car speeding up the hill hit a neighbour’s child and seriously injured him and my mother, a retired nurse, tended to the injured child until the ambulance came

After the accident a new crosswalk and stop sign was installed to protect pedestrians and for 57 years, this despised stop sign has actively

calmed traffic, preventing cars from speeding at the crest of the hill with limited visibility, from causing havoc

Not one serious accident has happened at this location since.

So to unpuzzle drivers wasting a miniscule of fuel stopping and unfrustrating the frustrated, the lonely sentinel; the stop sign at the top of Imperial Hill has kept things a little safer for all Malcolm Johnston

Further, a new onramp would be about 400 metres from the proposed tunnel entrance On-ramps are where vehicles usually slow the main flow of traffic Can you imagine the gridlock this proposed on-ramp will provide?

In addition, Delta council has apparently chosen not to have a public hearing specifically on this issue or gather input from residents along and near River Road Council had no problem asking these residents about their input for a proposed new signal light at River Road and Ferry Road but I guess having a new on-ramp carrying

hundreds of vehicles a day was not important enough to ask residents? If they had asked they would have found that there is an elementary school (Neilson Grove) only one block away from River Road where students will need to cross to attend school thus raising the risk of a disaster. Also, the land being proposed for the on-ramp is part of the Agricultural Land Reserve

For a City that prides itself in a farming heritage, it’s hard to believe this is not important.

I’m not supportive of a new overpass/on-ramp. The risks are just too high.

Keith Munro

Bold plan brings Ladner into 21st Century

The following letter was sent to Mayor and Council and copied to Delta Optimist

I took the time to attend the public session last evening (Jan. 11) for the new development in Ladner.

I had received some very negative comments from some of my friends who live in the proximity of this proposed development and wanted to see for myself if their fears were valid They had expressed to me that their 150-year community didn’t need a six-storey development and that

Ladner was just fine as is, and while I understand their sentiment, I wanted to educate myself

The first thing that I learned was that the Official Community Plan had laid out in plain English that this type of building is what the plan had envisioned for this property It makes sense to me given the location of the piece of land situated to the north of the town centre. I believe that density of the town core is critical to the survival of the businesses which are the heart of the community

What really impressed me about their plan was firstly that they are building rental units and we so desperately need rental units in South Delta Secondly I noticed the detail in the architecture, they have incorporated the heritage of Ladner in the design, it is a truly a remarkable piece of work

I know that there will be extreme pressure on you and council to stop this proposal, I am just hoping that you have the fortitude to bring Ladner into the 21st century with this bold plan.

Bruce Fougner

Council raising alarm about stratas changing to 55-plus

SANDOR GYARMATI sgyarmati@delta-optimist com

Is there anything the City of Delta can do about stratas circumventing rules prohibiting rentals by limiting their residential complexes to those 55-and-older?

That is what council wants to find out, voting unanimously in favour of a motion put forward by acting mayor Dylan Kruger, on behalf of Mayor George Harvie, regarding recent news that some strata councils have already started the process of switching to become 55-plus buildings in response to the province’s legislative amendments to ban them from prohibiting rentals.

In November, Bill 44 was introduced, the Building and Strata Statutes Amendment Act, 2022 It brought changes to the Strata Property Act including to previous rental and age restriction bylaws

It means that if a strata corporation has a bylaw that sets any restrictions or limitations on rentals, it is no longer enforceable The new rules apply to all strata lots in B C including bare land developments.

The Condominium Home Owners Association of BC notes that only age restriction bylaws of 55 and over that apply to occu-

pancy are still enforceable. While the age restriction does not prohibit older people from renting in 55-plus complexes, it would leave out younger people.

“The spirit behind the legislation is to add additional rental stock, which I certainly support, but unfortunately one of the things that has happened here is that a couple of strata properties in our city, but also across the region, are realizing that if they hold a special meeting to transition their ownership structure to 55-andover, they’d be able to exclude a number of younger families seeking rental opportunities in these strata buildings,” said Kruger in speaking to the motion at the Jan 9 council meeting. “I’ve got no problems with 55-plus buildings if they are designed that way. I do have an issue with, and the comments received by council, that typically younger couples with kids or younger couples considering having kids who own their property and are concerned about the implications for their future, whether or not they’d be grandfathered in to allow them to continue to own their now 55-plus property “What will this mean for future opportunities for families to reside in these properties?”

Saying the City of Delta is aim-

ing to have more housing available in its communities, Kruger read Harvie’s motion, which said residents have conveyed concerns about their stratas calling special general meetings on the subject The motion calls for staff to report back to council on the concerns and what actions, if any, the city could take to limit exclusionary strata bylaws in response to Bill 44 Coun. Dan Boisvert asked whether stratas that are proposing to designate their buildings to be 55-plus already have an overwhelming majority of their owners in that age range

Kruger responded that may be the case, but younger owners in complexes would feel powerless, since they had purchased their properties in good faith, but are suddenly in the minority.

Kruger also noted that even if younger property owners would be grandfathered to allow them to stay, they could find themselves in an unwelcoming environment

Coun Rod Binder agreed, saying the analysis is important because Delta is aiming to have higher density developments built to create more housing options for everyone. He noted it is important to see what authority Delta may have in creating and protecting rental stock

Delta fire crew follows old tradition with new apparatus

sgyarmati@delta-optimist com

The crew at Fire Hall No. 3 followed an old tradition last Thursday (Jan. 12) by pushing in by hand one of the department’s newest pieces of equipment

The North Delta crew were all smiles having received one of two new fire engines purchased by the city

It has some of the latest features and green technology including an

eco-idle that switches the vehicle to lithium power when parked and running for extended periods

The fire truck being replaced will go into the Delta Fire and Emergency Services reserve fleet of three.

Members of the hall first celebrated the arrival of their new apparatus with a ceremonial wash with the old firetruck used to wash the new vehicle, anointing it.

That was followed

by the new apparatus pushed into the bay by hand

The tradition dates back to the 1800s when crews had horse-drawn equipment

Upon return, the animals would be detached from the equipment and that equipment had to be pushed into the bay.

Many fire crews throughout North America today continue such push-in ceremonies when taking delivery of new apparatus

SANDOR GYARMATI

SANDOR GYARMATI PHOTO

Costing more than $1 million, one of two new fire engines is now stationed at Fire Hall No 3. Pictured left to right: Scott McQuade, Anthony Cerf, Russ Borden, Tim Ipsen, Jason Wood, Russ Smith, Mervin Tomayo, Bob Cullen and Cole MacInnes

SANDOR GYARMATI PHOTO Delta firefighters follow an old tradition by pushing their new fire truck by hand into the No 3 fire hall last Thursday.

In his first major interview in 2023, BC Liberal Leader Kevin Falcon is setting his sights squarely on Premier David Eby’s NDP government for doing far too little economically, politically and on key topics like housing and infrastructure

Falcon, speaking with a group of Glacier Media journalists on Jan. 11, focused heavily on the transportation file citing his experience as the province’s minister on that front from 2004 to 2009. Prime among his targets? The proposed replacement to the Massey Tunnel between Richmond and Delta, one of the key traffic bottlenecks in Metro Vancouver (and a key trade infrastructure link for port facilities at Roberts Bank.

“I’m not a super emotional person, but I get very angry at this discus-

sion,” Falcon said, noting the NDP’s choice to terminate the Liberals’ original plan for a 10-lane bridge and replace it with a new eight-lane tunnel lacks foresight.

“It is just one of the worst amongst a litany of really bad capital decisions this government has made Everything was in place to have a phenomenal 10-lane bridge two lanes dedicated for transit, four lanes in each direction for commuter traffic, including the widening of Highway 99 for dozens of km in each direction... Instead, what we got was a government that cancelled it, then spent years twiddling their thumbs.”

The bridge was announced in 2017 by then-premier Christy Clark, and Falcon noted there was a fixed bid in place to build the project for $900 million less than the tunnel project currently estimated at $4.15 billion in cost After the NDP won the 2017

provincial election, thenpremier John Horgan cancelled the bridge with $100 million of preloading/power-line movement in anticipation of

the project already done.

In a Westmar Advisors Inc. report released by the new government in 2018, the NDP government said that the

Liberals’ 10-lane bridge “was pushed ahead without input of communities” and that the massive structure was not required.

“An immersed tube tunnel crossing of up to eight lanes is likely feasible for a new crossing and could be less expensive with fewer negative impacts,” the report said.

Delta municipal leaders have also protested the new eight-lane tunnel plan, noting that it lacks a second overpass at River Road (originally planned with the bridge) that was “critical” for local traffic access to the river crossing

Falcon said his hope is that his party which will soon be rebranded to become BC United can retake office before the tunnel project completes environmental assessment, which can take more than a year to complete.

“My hope is that I can become premier before it’s too far along so that we can stop it before they get any construction work done on the actual tunnelling, and we can get back to building a bridge overpass, ” he said.

CHUCK CHAING Business in Vancouver

FILE PHOTO

Liberal Leader Kevin Falcon is pictured during a stop in Delta in September 2022 talking about the Massey Tunnel.

Deltahasplantoincreasehousingrentalstock

in the community

SANDOR GYARMATI sgyarmati@delta-optimist com

Will it become easier to find an affordable place to rent in the City of Delta?

That’s one of the big questions facing many who can’t afford to buy a place of their own

as the province in late 2022 announced it is introducing new laws to build homes people need, make it possible for homes that are vacant to be rented and remove discriminatory age and rental restrictions in stratas that hurt young families

The Housing Supply Act will not take effect until mid-2023

Delta already has a strategy in place and ready to implement to improve the number of rental units outlined within its Housing Action Plan, approved in late 2021 and aimed at increasing variety and affordability over the next five years

The strategy notes that the housing affordability challenges experienced by renters generally require more intervention than the challenges experienced by owners.

Some of the recommended actions already being implemented, among the strategies is for Delta to, among other things, promote priority housing types through a comprehensive incentives package.

Among the other strategies is for Delta to introduce tenant relocation and rental stock protection policies.

The city is to also set to pilot inclusionary zoning to help require that new development includes a portion of units as affordable rental.

The actions outlined in the action plan are based on the findings of the Delta Housing Needs Assessment, which did not have encouraging numbers when it comes to the availability of affordable rental housing.

The assessment found that nearly 80 per cent of Delta’s housing stock is still owned, with about 75 per cent of rental stock being provided as secondary rentals, such as suites in detached homes

or rented condos

The amount of primary, purpose-built rental in the city only accounts for approximately five per cent of Delta’s housing stock, while increases in household income are not keeping pace with the increases in rents or home sale prices.

According to that report, “Of those who rent, most rent secondary rental units like basement suites Research shows that, in B C , secondary rental units typically have higher rent rates and lower vacancy rates than purpose-built rental. Relying so heavily on the secondary market means more renters are spending more of their income on housing”

The report also notes, “Differences between renters and owners become especially

noticeable when comparing the incomes of owners and renters, and how many spend more than 30 per cent of their income on housing The numbers also show that those who do not own are likely to continue renting for the foreseeable future as the affordability gap continues over time”

As far as secondary suites, the city in 2021 made amendments to make it easier to add a unit in a house, including eliminating the requirement for a minimum lot width of 49-feet to be eligible for a suite and allowing suites on properties that can fit three on-site parking spaces regardless of parking configuration

A planning department report at the time noted Delta currently has more than 2,800 dwellings with a secondary suite

occupancy permit, with approximately 75 percent of the authorized suites located in North Delta.

Out of approximately 23,600 single-detached lots in Delta, removing the lot width requirement would allow secondary suites on approximately 1,950 additional lots, provided that three off-street parking spaces is provided and B C Building Code requirements are met

Approximately 220 lots that are less than 49-feetwide already have a secondary suite

When it comes to the current stock of secondary suites in the city, only one unit is permitted per single detached dwelling.

The Housing Needs Assessment will also be updated within five years in accordance with provincial legislative requirements

FILE PHOTO

In Delta, 18 per cent of owners and 37 per cent of renters spend more than 30 per cent of their income on shelter costs.

Tsawwassensmallbusinessownerthrilled toopenthestoreshealwaysenvisioned

MARK BOOTH mbooth@delta-optimist com

The new location is only a few hundred metres away from her original store, but the perseverance, passion and determination to get there felt more like completing a marathon

On Jan. 11, X-Treme Clothing Boutique owner Lisa Fleischer held a grand opening celebration of her impressive new store in the Tsawwassen Town Centre Mall near Thrifty’s Foods

Reflecting her Métis heritage, Fleischer invited Tsawwassen First Nation’s Victoria Williams to provide a traditional land acknowledgment, along with a prayer and song, while Coun Dylan Kruger was also on hand representing the City of Delta as acting mayor.

Fleischer initially opened her women ’ s clothing and accessories shop back in 2017, on the east side of 56th Street near Petra’s Nearly five years later, she is thrilled to welcome her customers to the store she envisioned all along. She just didn’t expect all the hurdles

along the way, including a pandemic that took its toll on many small independent business owners

“This was the vision when I first opened, but in order to save costs I moved in and there was already racks in the store, so I just

bought them and we just went with it We didn’t even change the sign,” Fleischer reflected. “There’s been all kinds of sacrifices I’m a single parent and have a daughter in university

“During the pandemic it was nearly impossible We really relied on our

base of customers that did support us through online sales because we were closed for so long.

“I’m thinking outside the box by trying new things I’m not a youngster, but I’m trying to stay current and just fighting for it”

Fleischer takes pride in her store carrying almost exclusively Canadian-made products while also supporting women ’ s empowerment movements.

“We’re very different from every store in town We are very unique in we carry a lot of Canadian-made goods We also support a lot of local small businesses and we have

Indigenous jewelery, because we support Indigenous artists,” added Fleischer.

Kruger was impressed at what X-Treme Clothing Boutique adds to the Town Centre Mall.

“It’s the small businesses that make up the fabric of the culture of our community

And it’s so important supporting local businesses, supporting Delta families and creating jobs for people in Delta in our community,” he said. “We can’t be more thrilled to see that and as a council, we want to continue to do everything that we can to support the business community”

St, Belair Cres, Dr Camaro Dr 70 1600423 Birch Spring aland, Cedar Spring Dr Fir Springs Lane, Spring Blvd, Willow Springs Ave 77 1600427 Pine Springs Lane, Springs Blvd, Cedar Springs Dr, Pl, Willow Springs Ave 71 1610109 Admiral Blvd, Lane, Brigantine Rd, Clipper Pl, Cutter Pl, Ketch Rd, Commodore Rd 101 1610220 40th St, 41B St, Church St, River Rd, Savoy St, Station St, Weare St 87 1610320 45th Ave, 62nd St, Aurora Crt, Dawn Dr 84 1610509 48B Ave, Ladner Trunk Rd, 56th St, 57th St, Egan Pl 56 1610511 48B Ave, 55B St, 56th St, 57th St, Grove Ave 52 1610512 4945 - 5025 57th St 56 1610516 51st Ave, 57A St, 58A St, 58B St, Cooper Pl, Crescent Dr Grove Ave 100 1610518 49A Ave, 59A St, 59th St, Crescent Dr 82 1610524 48A Ave, 49th Ave, 62nd St, Brodie Pl, Rd 62

MARK BOOTH PHOTO

Delta Coun. Dylan Kruger and Tsawwassen First Nation’s Victoria Williams (far right) with X-Treme

Clothing Boutique owner Lisa Fleischer and her daughter Madison during the Jan. 11 grand opening celebration at the new Tsawwassen Town Centre Mall location.

Westham Island Bridge undergoing upgrade work

TransLink is advising commuters that the Westham Island Bridge in Ladner will be undergoing upgrade, which started Monday, Jan. 16, resulting in closures

Requiring intermittent bridge closures until Jan 31, the current work will result in regular daily closures that will last for one hour at a time

TransLink notes there

will be 20-minute openings to allow traffic through, but some longer closures will also be required at times

TransLink will be replacing deteriorated structural and mechanical components of the old bridge’s swing span this year

More information about the project can be found online at www

translink.ca/plans-andprojects/projects/maintenance-and-upgradeprogram/bridge-projects

An up-to-date closure schedule can also be requested by emailing Westham.Island.Bridge@ translink ca Digital signs are also near the bridge which are displaying information about the closures -submitted by Translink

BC Hydro virtual open houses: George Massey Tunnel Transmission Relocation Project

The Province is proposing to replace the existing four-lane George Massey Tunnel with a new, eight-lane immersed tube tunnel, and will decommission the existing tunnel once the new tunnel is in operation.

A section of one of our power lines crosses the Fraser River through the existing George Massey Tunnel, so we need to relocate it before the tunnel is decommissioned. We’re studying three alternatives that include both overhead and underground lines for this project. We’re hosting two virtual open houses to introduce to you the three alternatives we’re studying Please come and share your views with us

Virtual open house information:

Dates: Wednesday, Jan 25, at 7-8 p.m PST OR Thursday, Jan 26, at 1-2 p.m. PST

Location: Online Please register at bchydro.com/gmt by January 24

Visit bchydro.com/gmt to see the alternatives and for more information. Contact us at 604 623 4472 or at projects@bchydro com

F LE PHOTO

Work started this week on upgrades to the Westham Island Bridge.

Around Town

Author book signing

Ladner’s Black Bond Books will be hosting author Sandra Thompson for a book signing on Saturday, Jan 21 from 1 to 3:30 p m Thompson a k a S J Kootz, will be signing her latest book Order of Nehor & The Brotherhood, a captivating historical novel set in 82 BCE in Guatemala.

Quiz Night 13

KinVillage Quiz Night 13 is this Saturday, Jan 21 Cost is $40 for teams of four Cash bar opens at 6:30 p.m. with the quiz starting at 7 Spectators are welcome at a fee of $5 Enter your team by calling 604-943-0225

Delta Pride Trivia Night

Join in for the first Delta Pride Trivia Night of 2023 hosted by Fierce Brosnan!

A board game social (free), followed by a fun Pride theme trivia night hosted by the incredible drag king Fierce Brosnan Brought to you by DPS with the City of Delta this Saturday, Jan 21 at the Ladner Community Centre with the board game social from 4 to 6 p.m. and the trivia night from 7 to 9 p.m. All ages are welcome The board game social is free, but the trivia night is a $10 ticketed event for teams of six Book your ticket at: www eventbrite com

Seed workshop

Join this West Coast Seeds led program at the Discovery Centre to learn all about seed starting for summer. Each participant will bring home their seeds and learning after the program Please dress appropriately for gardening and bring gloves if desired. The program is on Sunday, Jan 22 from 1 to 2 p.m. Register at: delta ca

LIFESTYLES

Event to report?

WilliamsgivesabigAlohafromHawaii

Elvis was centre stage at electric sold-out show at Genesis Theatre

IAN JACQUES ijacques@delta-optimist com

It was an electric show from start to finish

The audience that packed a sold-out show at Genesis Theatre in Ladner were transported back to Hawaii Saturday night as Eli Williams and friends presented their Aloha from Hawaii tribute show

Celebrating the 50th anniversary of Elvis’s iconic show in Hawaii, Ladner native Williams, along with his friend Aaron Wong, who opened the show doing his awardwinning tribute to Elvis in the 1950s, wowed the crowd with a high-energy performance An 11-piece band, The Beauty Shop Dolls, as well as an authentic Polynesian dance group rounded out the concert experience

The last time Williams was in Ladner for a show was back in January 2020 with The Relive the Music show, just before the initial COVID pandemic lockdowns

“It is so good to be back performing in Ladner,” Williams told the Optimist in a preconcert interview “I am so very much looking forward to performing, but also being back in the Lower Mainland in general It’s been almost a year and a half.”

In 2021 Williams and his wife moved to East Tennessee where he performs five nights a week in Pigeon Forge at The Main Event Theater.

“Needless to say, COVID did a pretty good number on the entertainment scene not only in Vancouver, but everywhere and when I was given an opportunity to perform full time again in Tennessee, though it was hard to move country and say good bye to friends and family, we love it here,” he said “To perform is great, but to see family, friends as well as the musicians I’ll be working with, is the real thing I’m looking forward to.”

He says there is a lot of moving parts to this show.

“Myself and the other producer wanted to put out as exciting a show as we possibly could,” he said “Fortunately, everyone we see working with us are beyond professionals and that makes the process really seemless We also wanted something special for the 50th anniversary of the concert itself and Hawaiian culture means a lot to us, so between that and Elvis, we have a vested interest”

Williams has been an Elvis fan since he was a small child when he was exposed to

original vinyl albums As time progressed, he became hooked by the dynamic music and unparalleled style of Elvis Presley

In 2007, he met Brian Simpson, a fourtime world champion and instructor of the world’s only Elvis school, Elvis 101 Immediately he enrolled and has never looked back

“I’m first an Elvis fan. I was an Elvis fan before I started doing this and when I stop doing this I will still be an Elvis fan, so I want to provide a show that I would want to see as an Elvis fan. It’s my hope that everyone who attends gets that,” said Williams

Jan. 25 concert to raise funds for CFUW bursaries

An upcoming choral concert in South Delta will help raise funds for the Canadian Federation of University Women (CFUW) – South Delta bursary program

On Wednesday, Jan. 25 at the Equinox Theatre at South Delta Secondary, CFUW presents the Vancouver Welsh Men’s Choir, directed by Jonathan Quick and the South Delta Sounds Jazz and Concert Choirs directed by Danielle Hamilton

The show starts at 7 p m

Since the 1960s CFUW has offered more than 100 bursaries

to local female students Every one to two years, the South Delta club, which is one of 21 clubs in B C , and one of about 100 clubs across Canada, offers bursaries to female graduating students from SDSS and Delta Secondary, as well as to mature local women who are beginning, or returning to, post-secondary studies After pausing their community fundraising projects for almost three years due to the pandemic, CFUW South Delta members are delighted to be joining forces once again with these two impressive choirs

South Delta Sounds Jazz and Concert Choir is an award-winning student choir from SDSS

In March 2020 in Hawaii, the SDSS music department won three gold medals, one each for concert, jazz and band.

This year, the SDSS choirs will perform at the Con Brio Music Festival in Whistler in April and are planning a trip to New York City in 2024

The Vancouver Welsh Men’s Choir is a diverse group of individuals from different cultures and backgrounds, who share a passion for singing, and who

perform both traditional and contemporary choral songs They often perform benefit concerts for various worthwhile projects.

CFUW South Delta eagerly looks forward to welcoming the community to enjoy the music of these two wonderful choirs.

Tickets for the show are $20 for general admission and $10 for students and children, available for purchase at Black Bond Books in Ladner, Centre Stage Accessories in Tsawwassen or call Shelley at 604-946-5559.

-Submitted

by CFUW

JIM KINNEAR PHOTO

Eli Williams was back home last Saturday for his Aloha from Hawaii tribute show

Lifestyles

Outside Mullingar is a touching story about the romance of Anthony Reilly (Terry Thomas) and Rosemary Muldoon (Laura Burns), neighbours in rural Ireland, who are nearing their middle years. It is by turns poetic, uplifting, dark and funny as hell Anthony is an introverted farmer and Rosemary is the woman who vows to have him at all costs Insert their parents, Tony Reilly (Roger Monk) and Aoife Muldoon (Linda Berndt) and the plot unwinds!

Sidekick is very happy to welcome back to the Sidekick stage, Thomas (Drinking Alone) and Monk (Someone to Watch Over Me) and newcomers, Laura Burns and Linda Berndt.

Audiences will recognize Berndt as she has greeted theatre patrons working front of house

The Players are also thrilled to debut Collis as director.

She has been on the stage in Here on the Flight Path, The Ladies Foursome, Marion Bridge and Drinking Alone

“Getting to act in plays with Sidekick Players has been so fun for me because

when I’m on stage, I can really dig into a character and pretend to be someone else - usually a better version of me, ” she said “Directing is challenging in a different way because I get to dig into all the characters, plus I get to play a bossier version of me, so really, what’s not to like?”

Collis has enjoyed working with these actors bringing John Patrick Shanley’s words to life “I’m really enjoying working with this group of actors,” she adds

“When I first read Outside Mullingar, I loved the Irish lilt to the words and the humour and tenderness that came through in the writing the words on the page really come alive when an actor does their thing, and when we add some Irish music in the mix.”

Collis has also co-written a play called Obit that was showcased in the Vancouver Fringe Festival and was one of those recommended to go see, as well as others

Performances of Outside Mullingar are Thursday through Saturday at 8 p m with 2 p.m. Sunday matinees on Jan. 29 and Feb. 5

Reserve your seats by calling 604-2882415 Tickets are $20 for adults and $18 for seniors.

-Submitted

The Sidekick Players presents Outside Mullingar by John Patrick Shanley, directed by Cathy Collis coming to The Tsawwassen Arts Centre Jan 26 to Feb 11

SIDEKICK PLAYERS PHOTO

Pictured left to right is Laura Burns who plays Rosemary Muldoon and Terry Thomas who plays Anthony Reilly in the upcoming Sidekick Players production of Outside Mullingar.

Private School

How students can better manage their time

Many people have a lot of demands on their time. There are only so many hours in a day, which means that the sooner a person can develop strategies for managing his or her time efficiently and effectively, the more successful that person can be

It can be especially important for students to explore ways to improve their time management skills early in their academic careers. Time management involves planning, and that includes allotting time for specific tasks.

The following strategies can be useful for anyone looking to manage their time more effectively:

Establish a daily schedule

Staying the course may require a guideline detailing how you will spend your time. A good part of the day may be taken up by classes and assignments, but focusing on the other parts of the day also is key Set up a plan for how you will treat each day. Block off specific times for exercise, meals, school, study, and any other responsibilities you have Time blocking is a format by which you go through the moments of the day You can block out by the hour or any amount of time you need

Figure out where you’re losing time

You need to know how you ’ re currently spending your time before you

can improve on time management strategies Spend a few days jotting down a time log This will help you determine if you ’ re working efficiently or where you are losing time

Make time for breaks

Burnout can occur when you work yourself too hard That makes breaks an important part of time management. Breaks allow for time to call loved ones,

text with friends, meditate, or engage in other activities unrelated to school. According to sleep researcher Nathaniel Kleitman, people’s minds naturally crave breaks after 90 minutes of intense work You may need breaks at different intervals Learn to read your body’s cues

Break projects down

Many students avoid projects they feel are huge tasks. Breaking down the larger job into smaller ones can help students stay focused and reward progress For example, if you need to write a 50-page research paper, make the first task finding source material, the next citing quotes and studies, and then resolve to write a set number of pages per

day

Schedule classes wisely

Some people are night owls while others thrive in the morning. Set up schedules so youÕre in class when you are at your most productive; otherwise, you could lag and waste time This may not be possible for high school students, but colleges allow for more flexibility in scheduling

Time management is an important skill for students to develop It will help in the classroom and later on when entering the workforce

-Metro Creative

Leading Education With A Global Perspective

METRO CREATIVE PHOTO

Private School

How students can block out classroom distractions

An ability to focus in the classroom can go a long way toward helping students achieve their academic goals. But distractions lurk in every corner, making it easier than ever to succumb to a lack of focus

Maintaining focus in the classroom can be difficult in the digital age, but students can try various strategies to block out distractions once class begins

*Disconnect your devices: A 2020 report from the nonprofit association Educause found that the majority of students report connecting two or more devices to campus Wi-Fi each day Devices often serve as useful tools that augment classroom lessons, but they also can distract students. Students can turn off notifications on their phones and tablets before class begins so that familiar ping does not sound during lectures and lessons

In addition, unless devices are necessary during a class, students can store them in places where they won’t be tempted

to check for messages or other alerts when they should be learning. Storing devices in a separate pocket in a backpack or even in a locker outside the classroom can remove the temptation to log on during class

*Prepare for class in advance: Organizing before class can help students stay focused when a teacher is lecturing, explaining classroom material or engaging students in a discussion. Students who can’t readily access their notes,

books or assignments may be forced to spend valuable class time looking for such materials, thus distracting them from the lesson.

*Bring questions to class: Students who jot down questions about a subject prior

to class are more likely to be engaged once class begins. Students can ask their questions during the lesson and listen intently to hear if their teacher or professor is answering their questions during their lecture Either way, bringing questions to class and going over them before class begins can help students narrow their focus to the subject at hand, reducing the likelihood that they’ll succumb to distractions.

*Sit in the front of class: Students who are having trouble focusing can try sitting in the front of class Sitting in the front ensures students can hear their teachers or professors, and sitting so close might subconsciously compel students to perk up so they’re not caught wandering

Devices and other distractions can easily compromise students’ focus in the classroom But various strategies can help students focus so they can perform better academically

–Metro Creative

METRO CREATIVE PHOTO

Students can try various strategies to block out distractions once class begins.

Revelation is a major theme in the Bible.

The truth of revelation is not something we arrive at through logic or discovery, through the power or determination of our intellects Revelation comes, rather, at God’s initiative alone And God’s revelation may stand in quite sharp contrast to our own ideas about God.

For the longest time, Christians held that God was revealed mainly through wrath

In medieval Western Europe it was commonly believed that God was essentially interested in disciplining and punishing sinners, that the god of judgment expected contrition, and lots of it But how much was enough?

As a young Augustinian monk, Martin Luther believed that the worse he felt about himself the better. But no amount of contrition for and confession of his sins seemed enough to appease the divine

judge. Luther would soon discover how wrong he was about God when the truth of the gospel was revealed to him. Yes, the wrath of God is a reality, but God does not want to punish or exercise wrath quite the opposite When we read the Bible we will discover that God’s love is the foundational, central revelation of scripture both in the New and Old Testament This is truly good news!

there has been a move far in the opposite direction from that of the Middle Ages The god of wrath has given way to the god whose job it is to make me happy, and even rich!

The prosperity gospel abounds, and the preachers of it tirelessly proclaim that if your faith is strong enough, you will have over-flowing abundance coming your way This is also a mischaracterization Nowhere does scripture reveal that faith in Jesus spares a person from suffering or guarantees earthly wealth. Jesus suffered on the cross It was, in fact, through his suffering, death, and resurrection that true abundance, God’s forgiveness and mercy, and promise of eternal life has been revealed and gifted to us

But in recent history,

All Saints Anglican Church March 11, 2023 • 6-7pm VIPs; 7-11pm partygoers Pacific Ballroom, Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, 900 W Georgia St.

Take the grand staircase up to one of the most historic and beautiful ballrooms in Vancouver and the marquee event of Vancouver Cocktail Week: The Golden Era Cocktail Revival Gala Raise your glass to the fall of Prohibition and enter the golden era of cocktails at an epic party that takes you on a glamorous journey through tipsy traditions Throughout the ballroom designed in 1939 and with more than 800 hours of hand-painted details stations featuring local bar stars and global brand ambassadors will offer drinks representing different eras in cocktail culture past and present

March 5-11, 2023

Golden Era Cocktail Revival Gala TICKETS ON SALE NOW AT thealchemistmagazine ca/vcw

Come early and enjoy our VIP hour, where you can mingle with our international and national VIP guests while enjoying passed canapés and cocktails Following the VIP hour, cheer on the finalists in the World Class Canada bartender competition during their speed-round hour before we announce the 2023 Canadian Bartender of the Year Then enjoy the food stations, live music and DJ, and cast your bids in the silent auction to support the BC Hospitality Foundation The Golden Era Cocktail Revival Gala is guaranteed to be a night to remember Note that Fairmont Hotel Vancouver will be offering special room rates for the evening. fairmont.com/hotel-vancouver

Bible Study. For more information www.allsaintsladner.org or call 604-946-8413. 4755 Arthur Drive, Delta T H E G O L D E N E R A C O C K T A I L R E V I V A L G A L A I S S P O N S O R E D B Y :

3. BALANCE GYM

Do

INTENTIONAL LIFE

Riverside Dental has the answer for you with the help of shockwave treatment. This is a non-invasive therapeutic treatment that involves delivery of acoustic shock waves into bone or soft tissue where discomfort is present. Over a couple of short sessions the waves break up scar tissue that has formed over time and promotes healing in the area.

The beneficial effects of shockwave therapy are often experienced after only 1 or 2 treatments.

If you could benefit from this form of therapy call 604-946-9588.

Dr Raj Dhiman

604-946-9588

130 – 4977 Trenant Street, Delta smile@ladnerdentist com 604-946-9588

Soft tissue management is a rehabilitation of damaged gum tissues. Irritation and damage to your gum tissue may result from micro organisms harbored in your dentures’ old acrylic, or ill fitting dentures. First, your dentures require cleaning to remove unhealthy organisms contributing to the inflammation and edema (swelling). Tissue conditioners (temporary soft lining material) are placed on the tissue fitting surface of your dentures to provide a clean positive adaptation to your gum tissues. Healing begins and your tissues are reassessed in a week to confirm the progress of healing. Second and/or third tissue conditioner may need to be applied before continuing the construction of new dentures. Healthy, pink, hard tissues, provide the important base foundation required for a successful denture. New dentures promote a healthy, clean, accurate fitting surface for many years. If you have any questions regarding this procedure or any other denture related subject, please book your free consultation with us.

My jaw hurts! Is there a way to address this pain with a non-invasive treatment that won’t cost too much?

Evensnowstormconditionscouldn’tstop theannual LadnerChristmasBirdCount

YOUSIF ATTIA Contributing Writer

The Ladner Christmas Bird Count is an annual survey of birds within a 24 km diameter circle centered on Delta, with areas extending into Point Roberts, Richmond, and Tsawwassen.

The Count Day on Sunday, Dec 18 was shaping up to be a record year

for participation, but the weather had other plans. Snow, strong wind and sub-zero temperatures turned into near white-out conditions by mid-day

Many birders opted to stay home, and very few are fortunate enough to live in the circle where they could count birds from their backyards Remarkably however, 68 people managed to brave the conditions and were rewarded with

I know I have some hearing loss, but it’s not that bad and I can get by without too much trouble. What should I do?

If you know you have hearing loss but are reluctant to get hearing aids before you “absolutely have to,” you’re not alone. An unfortunate statistic in our industry tells us that, on average, people wait seven years between the time they are affected by hearing loss and when they are fitted for a hearing device.

The longer you wait to get hearing aids, the harder it is to eventually adjust to them. This is partially because when your brain stops regularly hearing certain sounds, neural pathways are broken and those sounds become very difficult to regain if and when you start wearing hearing aids. People who have untreated hearing loss will also subconsciously change their social patterns. For example, you may stop going out for dinners or other group functions because they seem generally tiring or overwhelmingwithout realizing the exhaustion comes from all the extra work your body has to do to process sounds and follow conversation

If you work with a trusted hearing health professional who says you would benefit from hearing aids, avoid the temptation to put it off!

What are closing costs?

There will be fees associated in buying a home other than just your down payment. These fees include the cost of your home inspector, the notary who will act for you in the transaction and an appraisal if required by the bank.

Additionally, there could be provincial taxes charged a closing these taxes are determined by the purchase price, amount of down payment and if you have owned a home previously

Preparation and planning are key when it comes time to make the biggest investment of your life so make sure you have a professional in your corner!

a taste of what many Canadians experience on CBCs everywhere other than our mild slice of the Lower Mainland

The birds of course were still out there, and the inclement weather caused many species we don’t normally see in high numbers to congregate, which is reflected in the totals

A total of 133 species of 146,825 individuals were found on Count Day, which was two more than last year conducted under ideal conditions

The standout highlights of Count Day were the long-staying American Avocet near the base of the Deltaport Causeway, a Redhead in Point Roberts, and no less than seven California Scrub-Jays in Delta and Richmond, on the heels of the greatest irruption the region has seen for this species earlier in the year

Waterfowl in general, with the exception of Snow Geese, were detected in higher numbers probably due to the poor weather. Raptor and owl numbers were down hopefully as a result of reduced effort. The same can be assumed for most songbirds, almost all of which were in lower numbers compared to previous years

The influx of Varied Thrushes was a treat throughout the holiday season in the Lower Mainland Other notable species not observed every year included Greater White-fronted Goose, Tundra Swan, Eared Grebe, Western Gull, Red-breasted Sapsucker, Townsend’s Solitaire, and Harris’s Sparrow

This year, birders found seven additional species during Count Week

(the three consecutive days prior to and three days following Count Day), which was three more species than last year. Some of the Count Week goodies included Ancient Murrelet, Rhinoceros Auklet, Snow Bunting, American Tree Sparrow, and Northern Waterthrush The most surprising species missed on Count Day were Lesser Scaup, Mourning Dove, Hutton’s Vireo, and Lincoln’s Sparrow.

SABINE JESSEN PHOTO

Hardy birders and staff at the Reifel Bird Sanctuary on the 2022 Christmas Bird Count

JOHN EASTMAN AND DIANE KEHOE PHOTO

Bald Eagle on the 2022 Christmas Bird Count.

Lisa Manwaring

Mark Nickel BC-HIP, BBA

DELTASPORTS

Phillipsshines inhomepro lacrossedebut

Jon Phillips certainly made the most of his hometown pro debut

Playing in front of family and friends at Rogers Arena on Saturday, the 27-year-old from Ladner had a five-point night, including a pair of goals, in the expansion Las Vegas Desert Dogs’ 19-16 loss to the Vancouver Warriors in National Lacrosse League action

Phillips notched his first goal at the 4:58 mark of the opening quarter then found the net again in the second.

Back in 2016, he had a leading role in the Delta Islanders capturing the B C Junior “A” Lacrosse championship He has since been among the leading scorers with the WLA’s Nanaimo Timbermen and signed a one-year deal with Las Vegas in August.

His family has a rich history in the game.

His grandfather Ron Phillips was GM and head coach of the 1971 Minto Cup champion Richmond Roadrunners. Jon’s dad, Darcy Phillips, played junior “A” in Richmond and served many years as president of the Delta Lacrosse Association, along with the Junior “A” Islanders

Contact Mark at mbooth@deltaoptimist com or 604-946-4451

Inaugural Firefighters Classic a big success

The Delta Fire Department welcomed senior basketball teams from throughout the city to South Delta Secondary on Sunday for the inaugural Delta Firefighters Classic. The action-packed day featured seven competitive games, including the North Delta Huskies and South Delta Sun Devils in boys action (far left) while the Delta Pacers battled the Sun Devils in girls play. There were also plenty of prizes, from playerof-the-game awards to skill contests, while the students also got to learn more about a potential career as a firefighter.

DeltaKarateschoolafamilytradition

BOOTH mbooth@delta-optimist com

As students of the Delta Karate School (DKS) gear up for their upcoming performances in the BC Winter Games and Karate BC Provincial Championships, they are learning the skills necessary to overcome life’s many obstacles

Located in Ladner, the familyrun dojo is getting back on its feet as karate competitions are opening up again following the pandemic The responsibility of teaching and developing the students has been passed down from club founder Dr Chee K Ling to his daughter, former five-time national champion Rassamee Ling and now to his grandson Matthew Cheng

The primary goal for DKS is to impart values on their students, such as perseverance, goal setting

and work ethic.

As the students prepare for upcoming competitions, they are bound to face obstacles both physical and mental But current primary instructor, Sensei Matthew, reminds his students to “ go home and think about how good you truly want to be”

He pushes his students to keep their goal in mind as they face the challenges ahead. The students

practice both Kumite (fighting) and Kata (forms) in preparation for competitions with the ambition of being well rounded and balanced athletes.

This method of training is what Sensei Dr. Ling, refers to as a “comprehensive approach”

“We are unique” explained Ling “We look at combat more seriously”

The students’ training involves

vigorous conditioning, not only the body but the mind as well, teaching how they can overcome what they set their mind to DKS athletes Jonathan Chen, Justin Gu and Amreen Kang are currently setting their sights on podium finishes at the B.C. Winter Games, come March in Vernon, while others are aiming for gold at the provincials

Going forward, the DKS instructors hope to provide their students not only with the tools to thrive in competitions, but to flourish in life as well Sensei Ling summarizes the students’ experience at this long-running local dojo that has a rich tradition.

“It’s not just about winning a medal, we think about winning in life,” he says

Find more information on Delta Karate School visit www deltamartialarts ca

Jon Phillips

MARK BOOTH PHOTOS

MARK

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Students at the long running Delta Karate School in Ladner.

putting green, jacuzzi, fireplace and outstanding views Make your dreams come true with this one of a kind masterpiece Call for your exclusive viewing

Fabulous 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom condo, centrally located in one of Tsawwassen's finest buildings (La Mirage) Featuring huge sunny private decks overlooking golf course This spacious as-new condo has a great floor plan, new appliances and flooring In well-managed concrete building on quiet

REMEMBRANCES

Noe was born n Mamette Lake, B C on the ranch first setted by hs grandfather in 1885 His solated chidhood and remote education, nterrupted by trapping and hunting to hep support his famly durng the Depression, did not diminish Noel’s drive and curiosity to earn He worked hs way through UBC medical school, durng which he met a young nursng student named Barbara Prtchard The two connected immedatey and after graduation in 1956, were marred in 1957

Noe started as a general practitoner in Vancouver, then oned a cinc in Kimberley B C where he and Barbara made ifeong friends With four chidren n tow, he enoyed the local ski hl and akes Noel aso loved frendy competition and gof became hs favourte pastime By age 40 however he wanted to redirect his career

In 1970, Noel uprooted the famiy and moved to Tsawwassen, B C Four years ater he earned hs FR C P n pathoogy and joined the staff at the Vancouver Genera Hospita Being part of a research and teaching hospital was important to Noe He was known for his expertse in bone and joint pathology, and was nvoved in the research and co-authorng of dozens of academic papers

Also a Clnical Professor at UBC, Noe enoyed teaching and mentoring medcal students and resdents, whom he loved to challenge to think outside the box Ultmately, hs sound judgment, work ethic and eadershp skls were recognized, and in 1980 he was made Head of Anatomc Pathology Nine years ater he became Associate Director of Pathology a position he held until retirement n 1995

For the next ten years, Noe enjoyed doing ocums throughout the province until visual decine forced him to truly retre Beach Grove Gof Course became hs sanctuary for a new verson of the morning rounds

Noe was devoted to hs wife, Barb, and hs chidren and grandchildren He oved famiy gatherings, good conversation and ivey debates As hs health declined, he accepted it wth stoicism, humour and grace Whle stil able, he remained the quiet authorty who his famly respected and trusted for thoughtful advice Family gathered for Noel’s fina days to say farewel to this knd and generous man, who we were fortunate to have in our lves

Noe was predeceased by hs father Wllam (1947), mother Vena (1967), and sister Geradine (2016) He is survved by hs sister Eaine wife Barbara daughter Pam (Rob), son Brad (Kate), daughter Michele (Ken), and daughter Brenda (Paul) as wel as his grandchldren Lauren and Sam Nck and Jennica Taran (Marika) and Carmen (Brian), Ross, Kathleen (Felix) and Laura, and great granddaughter, Autumn

Thank you to Deta Hospital for the care provided to Noel over the years The family would ike to express our deepest gratitude to caregvers Francine and Norma for ther friendshp and care of Noel We also thank the staff and Dr Davidson of the Good Samaritan Deta Vew Care (our second home), for their knd and attentive care of Noe, and the staff and Dr James of the Waterford Care Centre, whose support and thoughtfulness durng Noe’s short time there s so very apprecated

A Celebraton of Lfe wil be hed February 19th, 1:00 - 4:00 p m at Beach Grove Gof Cub 5946 12th Ave Tsawwassen B C

Donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society or charty of your choice

LORENZ, Jerry

We are sad to announce the passng of one of the best Jerry Lorenz, beloved by famly and the many frends he made along the way during his 84-year adventure n life is now wth the Lord Born September 26, 1938 n Ituna, Saskatchewan his family moved to Steveston, B C when he was very young

“Sockeye” as he was known to hs rugby teammates was a unque athletc taent, excellng at everythng he tred He played for the Kats Rugby Club for many years and toured with Team Canada and Team B C n Engand, Japan and other rugby loving ocaes

A scrappy second baseman in Vancouver and Rchmond basebal eagues, after his paying days finshed he went on to coach youth baseball teams in Tsawwassen including the Deta Dodgers His insghts into the game he oved came wth generous servngs of humour and passon A championship pre-game pep tak once started wth “Let me tell you about the 3 bears ” helping to lighten the mood of a group of anxious teens who subsequently went on to ceebrate vctory

Jerry and Randy recently celebrated their 58th weddng anniversary Together they rased a family - Rob (Caroina), Caly (Tony) and Karan (Larry)explored haf the word together, and savored so many beautiful moments with each other and an incredible group of cose friends and extended famly Hking the Camno de Santiago Jerry posed for a candd photo for Randy wth his back to the camera lookng off into the distance from a smal hllcrest, a back beret marking the only cothng he had on A laugh ater folowed when a felow hker they met asked if they had seen the guy hikng the trai in the buff That was not the case of course but another great trave story was born

Jerry embodied the sprt of the great Maya Angelou’s expression that “Peope wil forget what you said People wil forget what you dd But people wil never forget how you made them fee ” He made us laugh, feel oved and when asked offered up sage advce and support He also set an incredible example for all He lived his values dd what he said he would and was aways ready to offer a helping hand

“Papa” was probably at his best wth hs grandchidren (Carly, Nicole, Garrett, Rachel and Jackson, Max, Jake, Nathan) and great granddaughter Ela He was so proud of al of them

His legacy wl be with us forever and the many fond memores we have wl brighten our sprits as we reflect on the storied lfe of a wonderful man

A service wil be hed on January 27th at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 3900 Arthur Drve n Ladner at 10:00 am No flowers by request Donatons to Delta Foodbank or Deta Hosptal would be most welcome A reception wil follow nearby - details to be provded at the service

All advertising published in this newspaper is accepted on the premise that the merchandise and services offered are accurately described and willingly sold to buyers at the advertised prices. Advertisers are aware of these conditions. Advertising that does not conform to these standards or that is deceptive or misleading, is never knowingly accepted. If any reader encounters non-compliance with these standards we ask that you inform the Publisher of this newspaper and The Advertising Standards Council of B.C. OMISSION AND ERROR: The publishers do not guarantee the insertion of a particular advertisement on a specified date, or at all, although every effort will be made to meet the wishes of the advertisers. Further, the publishers do not accept liability for any loss of damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of an advertisement beyond the amount paid for the space actually occupied by the portion of the advertisement in which the error occurred. Any corrections of changes will be made in the next available issue. The Delta Optimist will be responsible for only one incorrect insertion with liability limited to that portion of the advertisement affected by the error Request for adjustments or corrections on charges must be made within 30 days of the ad’s expiration. For best results please check your ad for accuracy the first day it appears. Refunds made only after 7 business days notice!

QUENVILLE, Dr Noel Francis July 12, 1929 - December 30, 2022

ENVIRONMENTALPROTECTIONNOTICE

1 ThepurposeofthisapplicatonistorequestanamendmenttoAirQualtyManagement PermitNo GVA0153,issuedNovember30,1992,toauthorizethedischargeofair contaminantsfrompotashstorageandhandlngactivities

Westshoreiscurrentlyauthorzedforcoalhandlngatthefaciltyandplanstoinclude potashasanadditonalbulkcommodity Facilitymodifcationstoaccommodate potash incudeanewrailcardumper,conveyors,storagebuiding, ship-loaders,shploading chutesandassociateddustcollectors Theproposal sforupto45MtpaofCanadan potash,dispacingapproxmatelyanequivalentamountofcoalexportcapacity

MoreinformationonWestshore’sPotashProectcanbefoundat: https://wwwwestshorecom/

2 The egaldescrptionofthe andorpremiseswheretheplant,operationorsourceand treatmentworksareorwillbelocatedis Certainlandsandwaterlotareastotallingsome 982,569squaremetres,moreorless,comprisingof:Parcel"A"(land)ofsome551,471 squaremetres,moreorless;Parcel"B"(waterlot)ofsome209,485squaremetres,moreor less;Parcel"C"(waterlot)ofsome167,606squaremetres,moreorless;Parcel"D" (waterlot)ofsome44,385squaremetres,moreorless;andParcel"E"(waterlot)ofsome 9,622squaremetres,moreorless,alloverpartsofLotA,PlanLMP25402,exceptPortions inPlanBCP22579,ParcelA,PanBCP12878,andDistrctLot851,al oftheBedofthe StraitofGeorgia,Group2,NewWestminsterDistrict,Corporation ofDelta,Provinceof BritshColumbia