We are so fortunatetoliveinsucha breathtaking community and we knowour readers feelthe sameway. Helpuspromotethe communitywelove.
Pleasesend usa photo of yourfavourite SouthDelta place, person,or thing,along with yourname,and afew words(lessismore -under 100,please) tellinguswhy you love livinginspectacular, stunning, stupendous, SouthDelta. We’llincludeyoursubmissioneitherinprintoronline withourJuly11th‘WeLoveDelta’feature.
Approximately200participantstookpart inthis year ’s Delta Police Department ’s Summer Solstice Run, Walkand Roll. Of that200, 40 were seniors fromsomeof Delta’s assistedlivinghomes,andfromthe senior ’s centres. Participants competedeithera two- orfive-kilometre courseinLadner.The Delta Police Pipebandopenedthe event,as wellasaperformancefromlocalmusiciansJay Esplana,AlvinBrendan, and PaulClark. The Delta Police Foundationhostedthe event raisingfunds for youthinitiativessuchas the Student Police Academy. Seemorephotos onour websiteat:www.delta-optimist .com
City report shows hugepay hike to formeremployee
SANDOR GYARMATI
The pay bump of a former Delta manager was among the eye-popping numbers made publicin thecity’s 2023 Statement of Financial Information.
The report, released at the June24council meeting, lists, among otherinformation, the schedule of remuneration, which includes salariesand benefits, as wellasexpenses of councilandemployees with remuneration exceeding $75,000. The report lists formeremployee ParamjitGrewal’s total remuneration last year at $258,198, withexpenses at $3,237.
In late 2018,Grewal, who ran unsuccess-
fully that yearas a council candidate on George Harvie’s Achieving for Delta slate, was appointed to thenewly retitled position of director of publicengagement and intergovernmentalaffairs. At thetime, newly elected Mayor Harvie told the Optimist it’s always been withinthe mayor’s purview to hire their own staffandthe retirement of the former mayor’s administrative assistant provided an opportunity to expandthe role According to the Statement of Financial Information report for the2022fiscal year, Grewal’s remuneration was listed at $170,128, withexpenses at $665.
CONTINUED: seeP6
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Council approves new Ladner Willows application
SANDOR GYARMATI
sg yarm ati@delta-optimis t. co m
Deltacouncilthis week granted enthusiasticpreliminar y approvalforan application by the Red Door Housing Society to redeveloptheLadner Willows below-market rentalcomplex
The 146units would be in a five-storey building on LadnerTrunk Road at 55B Street
The application has the support of BC Housing andthe owner is proposing that they wouldcontinue to operate allunitsunderthree affordable rent classifications Those include rent geared to income (50 per cent oftheunits),affordable market rentals(30 per cent oftheunits)and deep subsidy rentals(20 per cent oftheunits).
The sitecurrently contains a 40-unitnonmarket townhouse development which would be demolished.All but six are currently vacant.
The newproposalfol-
lows a previous application by the society two years ago for a150-unit, non-market rental apartment building, which was denied by council.
The planning department notes, at that time, councilacknowledged theneed fornon-market housing andnoted that any future proposal shouldconsider the impacts to the immediate neighbours given the proposed increase in density.
The changes from theprevious proposal include a larger setback.
Prior to the submission of thenew application, members ofthe society made a presentation to council. They explained that they’ve made several changes to their organization,including adding new membersto their board withexperienceinaffordablehousing, changes in staffing at alllevels, including new,experienced property managers, as wellas streamlining theirinter-
nal processes to be more responsive.
During council’s discussionon Monday, Coun. Dylan Kruger remarked theoperating grant from BC Housing would be a lost opportunity for Deltaifthe applicationdidn’tproceed
Coun. Rod Binder agreed, adding thepro-
posal “checksa lotof boxes” including itslocation
Coun. Dan Boisvert noted theproject will bring desperately needed housing in Delta, while Mayor George Harvie described theproposal as “ver y complete,” but thecity will still be “way behind” whenitcomes to
such affordablehousing projects.
The applicationis consistent withthe site’s designation underthe proposed newOfficial Community Plan(OCP), which received third reading by councilthis spring. A staff report notes a publichearing must not be heldforthe
zoning amendment ifitis consistent withtheproposed new OCP.
However, shouldthe new OCP not be adopted prior to final reading of the zoning bylaw amendment fortheproject, an OCP amendment would be required to allow for theproposed density and height.
New cellphonepolicy inplace for Deltaschools
SANDOR GYARMATI
sg yarm ati@delta-optimis t.
co m
The Delta School Board has approved a district-wide policy restricting cellphone use inthe classroom.
Aimed at creatinga clear, consistent policy among schools, as wellasadhering to a newprovincial guideline to restrict students’ classroom cell phone use by the start of thenext school year, the policy takeseffect July 1,2024.
The board approved the policy at its June18meeting, where Assistant Superintendent Judy Maranda saidthe policy applies to any devicethat can connect to the Internetand can distractfrom learning.
In elementary schools, cellphones must be stored away and cannot be accessed any timeduring the school day.
for specific educational purposes, including integration into instructionalplanning.
“There needs to be a direct link between using thedevice, whichever itis, andlearning. It can’t be, ‘we’re going to allow thedevicesin class for kids to access music’ There has to be a direct link to actual learning objectives,” said Maranda.
Everyone will be dealt with on anindividual basis ifdevices are needed for individual support plans or other reasons, such as health-related requirements, sheadded.
thedistrict’s Code of Conduct, which is to have a path of “progressive discipline” forthose notfollowing the rules.
According to theprovince, theProvincial Standards for Codes of ConductOrder has beenamended to require school boards to ensure their codes of conduct include statements about restricting theuse of personaldigitaldevices to reducedistractions in classrooms and support focused learning environments, foster online safety andpromote provincial consistency.
Accommodations will be made for theuse of personal digitaldevices for instructional purposesanddigitalliteracy as wellasaccessibility needs.
arise with students, explained Maranda.
Schools will communicate with parents shouldany issues
In high schools, cellphones are not permitted during instructionaltimesunless explicitly required by a teacher
“Wedon’t want to be a barrier to learning, we just don’t want it to be something that’s actually preventing usfrom engaging inlearning,” said Maranda.
Also explained at a recent meeting of the Delta Parent Advisory Council(DPAC),the Delta policy is connected to
PEOPLEWITHEVENMILD HEARING LOSS ARENEARLY MORELIKELYTO EXPERIENCE A FALL 3X
The Deltadistrict’s procedure was revised two years ago, stating that mobile devices are not to be used during class time, unless such use helps withlearning as permitted by the teacher, but those procedures were not necessarily enforced throughoutthe schools, said Maranda.
RESEARCHSIGNIFICANTLY LINKSUNTREATEDHEARING LOSS WITH STRESS, FATIGUE,IRRITABILITY, SOCIALISOLATION, ANDDEPRESSION.
ADULTS WITHMODERATE HEARING LOSS AREUP TO 3XMORELIKELYTO DEVELOPDEMENTIA THERE’S SOMUCHTO ABOUTLADNERAND
Butif youhavetroublehearing,there’salso alot to miss! Callus at 604-943-0033 to learnthemany ways improvedhearingcan help youlivelifetothefullest. BECAUSEHEARING LOSS CANHAPPENSOGRADUALLY, PEOPLEOFTEN DON’TNOTICETHESIMPLESOUNDSTHEYNO LONGERHEAR:
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New PebbleHilloff-leash dog areaopentothepublic
SANDOR GYARMATI
sg yarm ati@delta-optimis t. co m
The newoff-leashdog area at Pebble Hill Park in Tsawwassenisnow open to the public.
Trent Reid, General Manager of Parks, Recreationand Culture, toldthe Op imis the project isalmost complete, withonly the water drinking foundationleft to install.
The newenclosed area includes two separate fenced areas for dogs :a smalldog-area with wood chip surfac-
ing and a large “all-dog” area with wood chip and gravel surfacing.
The dog off-leash area was established in2010 within a BC Hydro transmission right-of-way. The oldoff-leash area was not fenced and had relied on signage and natural boundaries.
The newproject includesfencing, gates, benches and landscaping. Sincethenewoffleash park wouldalso be withinthetransmission right-of-way, special design considerations have been put inplace
forthe unique location, according to the city.
The city began looking at creating anoff-leash enclosure back in2019.
The originalplan wouldundergo design changes andthecity last yearfinally received conditional approval by BC Hydro.
The path, thedouble gates withaccessible latch and compacted gravel pad are accessible forwheelchairs.
The off-leashenclosure was part of a bigger package ofimprovementsforthe park
Going back further to the2020 report forthe 2019fiscal year, Grewal’s first full year onthe job, his remuneration was listed at $141,744, with expenseslisted at $6,835.
Grewal was terminated this year following anin-camera vote by council. He subsequently launched legalaction against thecityand Coun. Dylan Kruger, alleging wrongful dismissal anddefamation, andis seeking $700,000 in damages.
In a B.C. Supreme Court noticeofcivil claim, Grewal stated he was employed by thecity asthe general manager of economicdevelopment and stakeholder relations in the mayor’s office.
The claim saidGrewal was earning $234,000 per year, as well asa car allowanceof $748 a month, 11.5 percent vacation allowanceand various benefits
It also statesGrewal should receive what he wasentitled to forhiscontract to theendof2026.
The city,inits response, saidit terminated Grewal on a notfor-cause basisand made a severanceoffer.
When asked who authorized the pay hike andhow it was determined, a staffer withthe city toldthe Optimist that they couldnotpro-
videcomment but did provide background that thecity had used an informal “step” system indetermining exempt management employees’ remuneration. The city has now shifted to a performance-based system.
The Optimist isfilinga Freedomof Information (FOI) request to attempt to receive additional informationonGrewal’s remunerationincrease, as wellashis specific role forthecity.
In a move highlighting a behind-the-scenesfallout between the mayor andthe rest ofcouncil, allofwhom were on his Achieving for Delta ballotinthe2022election,councillors this May voted to approve a motion to implement new policiesaimed at limiting Harvie’s activities withouttheir approval.
Amongthe changes, noadditional staffing support is to be provided to any memberofcouncil orthe mayor without a formal resolutionfrom council.
The motiondidnot detailany specific past actionsormentionany current or past employees. Councilalso voted to remove Harvieas Delta’s representative onthe Metro Vancouver board. Councilon Monday also discussed and approved a motion put for ward by Coun. Rod Binderfor the mayor, counciland relevant staff to “participate in a mid-term governance workshop to enhance our collective understanding of governanceprinciples, improve our effectiveness as a governing body, and continue to best serve the residentsof our city.”
More poorairquality could beonthe way for Delta
SANDOR GYARMATI
sg yarm ati@delta-optimi st .c om
Re si dentsin De lta , es pe ciall y se nior s and thos e wi thbr ea thin g pr oblems , have ev en mor e to wo rr y ab ou t due to wi ldfiresthis su mmer
Du ri ng a re cen t prese ntat ion to council on thecity’s Co mmunit y Wi ldfir e Pr ot ec tion Pl anand He at
Re sp ons e Pl an, Fi re Ch ief Gu y Mc Kint uc k als o ou tline d thecity’s airqualit y advis or y re sp ons e.
Hi s re po rt not esth at pe ri od s of hot we at her oft en coincide wi th wi ldfir e ev entsand pe ri od s of poo r air qualit y due to wi ldfir e smok e, bu t De lta’s
co olin g centres have a high l ev el of airfiltr at ion th at ca n se rv e th e double pu rp os e of allo wi ng pe opl e to es ca pe th eh ea t and sm ok e.
“Withth e is su ance of airqualit y advis or ies by Me tr o Va nco uv er, st aff wi ll con tinue to us e so cialmedi a ch annelsand ot he r pu bli c notific at ion to ol s su ch aselectr onic re ader bo ards , alerts to se nior s th ro ughth e city’s se nior s cen t re s, an d pa rt ner mobilization th ro ugh so cialplannin g e -lists to comm unic at e infor mat ion re ga rd in g cu rr en t airqualit y and an y re comm end at ions fr om pu blichealthin re sp ons e to airquality,” th e re po rt expl a ins .
A re cen t Me tr o
Va nco uv er st aff re po rt to the Cl im at e Ac tion Co mmit te e, Ai r Qu al it y Ad vi so ry Pr og ra m an d Prep ar ed nes s fo r 2024, sa ys st aff have wo rk ed cl os el y wi thlo ca l health au thor ities to ma ke the la ng ua ge in theairqualit y advis or y easi er to under st and , re su ltin g in mor e effe ctiv e comm unic at ion of ke y mes sa ge s to a br oa der au dience . Th e su mmerhe at dome in2021 sa w a re tu rn to gr ou ndle ve l oz one le ve ls not experience d si ncethe 1980s , and on Ma y 15, 2023, Me tr o Va nco uv er i ss ue d its earl ies t oz one advis or y si ncetheair qualit y advis or y pr ogram be ga n in1993.
Every year we supportDeltaStudentsthroughourbursaries whentheyenrollincoursesinthehealthcarefield.
Thursday’scirculationis 17,500 Thispaperismadeof40% recyclednewsprintandprinted using vegetableinks
OPIN ION
Pride:a celebration anda riot
Guest column
TREVA NA SPILCHEN
Prideiscommonly seenas a monthofcelebrationof2SLGBTQIA+ culture andthe gainsin equality thathave beenlong fought forand achieved sincethat first Pride march in June of1970.
What isnotalways remembered isthat the first march followeda yearaftera riotthat broke out at the Stonewall Inn,on June28,1969.
Unfortunately, forthe last couple of years, Pride has oncemorefeltmore likea riotthan acelebration. Thisis due to theexponential rise in hate, fueled by misinformation, against the inclusionof topicsfocused ondiversity, including sexualorientations and genderidentities (SOGI),in B.C. schools.
This hate is sadlyfiltering into the attitudesand behaviours of studentsand parents in our schoolcommunities, resultingin queer teachers, studentsand families being targeted andfeeling unsafe.
As such, being the SOGIcoordinatorof schoolsinthe Delta SchoolDistrict has been challenging to say the least. My roleis to help teachers andadministratorscreate schoolcommunitiesthat are safefor ever yone, specificallyas it relates to 2SLGBTQIA+ experiences.
Wedo thisthrough education,which iswhy itis crucial to includelessonsfocusing ondiversity at all grade levels, inall classes.
Closingthegap: a plan to provide additionalsupport for youth
I’mpleased to be joining the team ofcommunity columnistswho have beensharing their storiesandexperiences.
In this space,I plan to celebrate what makes Delta a wonderfulplace to live andhighlight positive ideasfor our future.
In my first column, I wouldlike to introduce you to the Delta Child and Youth Committee (C YC), a coalitionof local government and non-profit groups.
Community Comment
LAURA DI XON
themselves recognize lack oftimely access to service may lead to adverse outcomesinthe long term. Obviously, more can be done.
The Delta Optimist is a member oftheNationalNewsmedia Council,whichisanindependent organization established to deal withacceptablejournalistic practices andethicalbehaviour If you have concernsabouteditorial content, please contact theeditor ateditor@delta-optimist.com or 604-998-3616 If you are not satisfied withthe responseand wish to file a formal complaint visitthe website atmediacouncil. ca or call toll-free1-844-877-1163 for additionalinformation.
We dothis by reminding peoplethat diversity includes2SLGBTQIA+ people, just asitdoes race, ability, socioeconomicsandall formsof marginalization. Wedo this by interrupting hateful behaviourconsistently in our schools
We dothis by supporting diversity groupsinall our schools so that students have a safeplace to be themselves. And yes, we also do this by celebrating. We celebrate our pridein ourselvesas a symbolofdefianceand resistance to this hate through our district Pride dance, raising a diversity flag at our school board office, and creating visiblePrideinthe hallways and classrooms in our schoolsthrough bulletin board displays andflags that celebrate the many ways we are diverse and beautiful within our communities.
In theend,Pride isa riotand a celebration,asit has been sincethe very start, 55 years ago.
CYC serves our community by coordinating programsand services for childrenand youth Parents doallthat they can to helptheir childrenthrive, but they can’t always doitalone Thisiswhen astrong community can make a differenceinhelping to increase resilience and success for young people.
Recent surveys indicate that Grade 8students in Delta report
levelsof well-being higher thantheprovincial average, but 41 percentstill say they face challenges in at least one area ofdevelopment.
CYC members recognize there are service gapsin Deltathat they are too stretched due tocurrent contractualand budgetar y realities.
A Delta SchoolDistrict survey of1,007 parents indicatesthat 55 percent offamilies have to seek support fortheir kids outside our community.
Parents, serviceproviders and young people
ThisiswhyI am excited to see CYC members look towards an Integrated Youth Service Modelandthe expansionofexisting pilotcommunity “HUBs” which wouldprovide counselling andphysical health services These initiatives willhelp to address service gapsand provide much needed support for young people right here in Delta For more informationon CYC, check out their website deltakids.ca.
Ever yonein Delta shouldknow there are resources availableand that our not-profits, government agencies, the schooldistrict, local government and Delta Police Department are working hard to improve thelivesof childrenand youthin our community.
Ban gas-poweredleafblowers
Editor:
It’s the early morning, in late June
What’s that obnoxious buzzing noise, ear-worming through my head?
Is it hundreds of killer bees, ready to attack, outside my bedroom window?
No, it’s my neighbour ’s gas-powered leafblower at fullthrottle, onthe other sideofthefence
He’s oblivious to the airandnoise pollution that he’s causing, because he’s wearing hearing protection,and I’m not
We came to South Delta, more than10 years ago, for peaceandtranquility.
Ever since, theCity of
Delta has kicked its citizens’ concernsdown the road, because itdoesn’t want to deal withthe serious impactsofthese leafblowers
Why?
Because local landscaping companies(and municipaldepartments) may be temporarily financially impacted, by the changes that are needed, to mitigate this problem.
The factisthathundreds of municipal governments, in Canada and the U.S., have acknowledged the real harms that gas-powered leafblowers are causing, to human healthandthe natural world (noise, stress ; toxic fumes, carcino-
Those governments have banned gas leaf blowers, infavourof electricalternatives(West End of Vancouverin 2004).
So, why isittaking so long for Delta, to dothe same?
How ironic: I just received anotherbrochure from a hearing clinic, inthe mail, suggesting that I should get my hearing checked soon.
A. Cameron
Just usesome commonsense
Editor :
Regarding considering no right turns on red in Delta (Optimist, June20)this is yet anothergreat idea to keep traffic flowing and congestion down.
CanI also suggest we all go out only
inprotective plastic bubbles wearing hockey helmets too?
I miss the good old days, I’ll tell you, whencommon sense andnononsense was thenorm.
Greg McDonald
Editorhad a thoughtful response
Editor:
Thank you for your thoughtfulpiece (Optimist, editorial, June 20) onthe socialmedia reaction to theaccident in the tunnelon June12. My husband knew the victim - they had worked together before my hus-
band retired. He toldme that the deceased had one more year before retirement,making thetragedy even more poignant.
I’m heartened to know that someonein your influential position felttheneed to express your repugnancefor the
heartlessness ofthese individuals.I believe it’s incumbent upon a caring society to point out callous disregard for suffering, no matterwhat form it may take, orwhatever human oranimalitis directed against.
Debra Probert
Notsoneighbourly Tsawwassen
Editor :
Late at night, early inthe morning and all weekendlong, vehicles with illegal orbrokenexhaustsystems rip around our residentialneighbourhoods.
Added to the loudexhaust, they seem to thinkthey are on a drag strip, foot to thefloorand zero consideration residents. Homefor sale, make usanoffer. Lance Mason
Buildinga Futurefor Delta's Seniors
Delta'sseniorsdeserve a DayProgramthatmatches theirneeds.With a growingwaitlist,it'sclear our facilitymustexpand.
Notice is hereby giventhatDelta City Councilwillconsidergiving first, secondandthird readings to thebylawsreferencedbelow at itsRegular Meetingat 5:00 p.m. on Monday,July8,2024 in theTheatre, NorthDelta Centre for theArts,1142584Avenue,Delta BC
File No.LU009552 (Bylaw No.8407)
Location:8479 BrookeRoad
Applicant: Gurpreet Saini
Proposal: Torezonethesubjectproperty from SingleDetachedResidential1 (RS1)toSingleDetached Residential 7 (RS7)topermitsubdivisionintotwo single detachedresidentiallotsand constructionof asingle detacheddwelling withan in-groundbasement andsecondarysuiteoneach lot. This applicationis consistent with proposed “Official Community PlanBylawNo. 8400,2024”.
ShouldBylaw No.8400 not be adoptedprior to final considerationand adoption of BylawNo. 8407, staff wouldbring forwarda bylawtoamend“TheCorporationofDe ltaOfficialCommunity Plan BylawNo. 3950, 1985”toallowthe proposed subdivisionand aPublic Hearingwould berequired
Location: 7555,7595 and7597120 Street and7592 and7594119A Street
Applicant: BarnettDembek Architects Inc.
Proposal:Applicationfor Rezoning, Road ClosureandCancellationand Dispositionofclosedroadarea, DevelopmentVariancePermitand Development Permit in ordertoconsolidatethesubjectproperties and a189.4m2 lane dedicatedasroadtoconstructa six-storey 285-unit apartmentbuilding. This applicationisconsistent with Delta’sOfficial CommunityPlan.
Tostop up,closetoalltraffic andcancelthe dedicationashighway of the existing189.4m2oflane dedicate dasroadidentifiedas“RoadtobeClosed” asshownonMap No.2.Following theclosureand cancellationof the“Road to be Closed”, Deltaintends to disposeof itsfee-simpleinterestinthe“Road tobeClosed” to 1390349 B.C. LTD. astheadjacentpropertyowner as part of aconditional road transfer andexchangeagreement.The fee-simple interest in the“Roadto be Closed” willbe disposed ofinaccordancewiththe Community Charter andwillbeconsolidatedwiththeadjacentproperty ownedby 1390349 B.C. LTD. TheconsiderationtobereceivedbyDeltainexchangefor the disposition ofitsfee-simple interest in the“Roadtobe Closed” is $1.00, togetherwith dedicationby1390349B.C LTD., asroad, of thatapproximately189.4m2portion identifiedas“Roadto be Dedicated” of 7555, 7595,7597 120Street, 7592 and7594119A Streetasshown on MapNo. 2inorder tocreate anew lane between 119A Street and120 Street
Theproposedclosure, cancellationand dispositionare dependent on adoption of BylawNo. 8420, 2024aswellas“DeltaZoningBylaw No.7600,2017”,Amendment BylawNo. 8419,2024.
This notice is for the purposeofpublic notificationonly.Itisnot an offertodispose of theabove property toanyotherparty.Ifyou feelthat youmay be affected by BylawNo. 8420,2024 or the proposeddisposition,you maynotifyDeltaCityCouncil by making representationsorsubmitting writtencommentstoDelta City Councilattheaddressstatedbelowbythestateddeadline.
Development Variance PermitLU009650
To vary Section6.2.10(b) of “Delta ZoningBylaw No.7600,2017” by increasingthe maximum permittedprojections intorequired frontand exterior side setbacks on thesouthand eastsides from 1.2 mto2.0 m. Approval of thisDevelopment Variance Permit is delegatedtotheGeneral Manager, Development.
Development Permit LU009650
Adevelopment permitisalsorequiredtoregulate theform andcharacterofdevelopment in the Scott RoadCorridor(SRC) Development Permit Area.Approval of this Development Permit is delegatedto the General Manager,Development
StaffContact: JanetZazubek
MapNo. 1
MapNo. 2
Many issues covered at Deltaschoolboard’s lastmeeting
SANDOR GYARMATI
sg yarm ati@delta-optimis t. co m
They covereda lot ofground in what turned out to be a lengthy finalmeeting of the Delta Board of Educationfor the 2023/24 school year this week.
The agenda for the June18 meeting at the school board’s administrationofficesinLadner includeda chequepresentation in the amount of$100,000 to members of the Delta Firefighters’ Charitable Society to assist the firefighters Healthy Snack Program.
Board chair Val Windsor, conveying appreciationfor volunteers, said a program expansioncouldincludemore fridges and freezers in schools to help firefighters expand the food choicesoffered.
The funding comesfrom the new Feeding Futures program provided by the province.
The board then heard various
presentationsfrom high school youth advisorycommitteeson their initiativesand events this past year, aimed at improving student experiencesincluding helping them feel saferand more included in their schools
Assistant Superintendent Brad Bauman remarked the youth councilsare all about students supporting their peers.
“They don’t have a singular perspective ofwhat schoolisall about, believing schoolsare for everyone,” he said.
Trustee Nick Kanakos said the students’ presentations were a clearexample oftheir passion, wisdomandeloquence.
Those in attendancealso hearda presentation by Diane Jubinville, Indigenous Success Coordinator, on National Indigenous Peoples Day (June 21),as wellas the district’s programs, supportsand success stories.
Hoping to put funding for
public education at the forefront in the upcoming provincialelection, the board also approved anadvocacy letter to be sent, notonly to the current government, but to theother political parties running for office, as wellas Delta’s two current MLAs.
Windsor said the current funding modelleaves Delta “at a significant disadvantage” with increasingly negative impacts on studentsand staff.
The letter outlines several requestsincluding targeted support for students with diverse learning needs.
Trustee Joe Muego agreed with Kanakos saying that itis prudent to pushand keep the issue to the front, andnotend up with “promisesthat endup getting lost down the line.”
Windsor saidduring district budgetconsultations a comprehensive stakeholder survey was done, but those findings must also be shared withall
Delta SchoolDistrict
Superintendent Doug Sheppardand Secretary
TreasurerNicolaChristpicturedatthefinalmeetingof theboardofeducation for the2023/24school year.
candidates“to hold their feet to the fire.”
The school board also approved a wishlist of building upgradesandplaygroundprojects, which will be submitted to the province
That list includes$195,000for a newaccessibleplayground at
COUNCILCONSIDERATIONOFBYLAWS– JULY 8,2024 …continued
File No.LU009644(Bylaw No.8421)
Location:11400 DalyPlace
Applicant: Manny Kingra –MysaHomes Ltd.
Proposal:Theapplicantisproposing to rezonethe subjectpropertyfromSingle Detached Residential 2(RS2)toSingleDetachedResidential 7(RS7)inordertoallowsubdivision ofthepropertyintotwo lotsandtheconstructionofa newsingledetacheddwelling with secondary suite on eachlot This applicationisconsistent with Delta’sOfficial CommunityPlan.
StaffContact: Emma Adams, Planner– 604-952-3136
FORMOREINFORMATIONREGARDING THEPROPOSALS
Gibson Elementary.
Among theother agenda items was anamendment for the proposed crossing guard program for2024/25,increasing the numberof guardsfrom 29 to 31, at 19locations The $126,470cost would be paid by the City of Delta.
The board also approved a capital bylaw for a land exchange with the city, which plans to build a secondartificial turf playing field at Mackie Park.
The exchange will see the city receive 2,029-square-metresof landalong the south edge of Mackie Park from the school district The additioncreatesa parcelbig enough to construct the second synthetic turf field.
In exchange, the district receives two parcelsof land, oneconsisting of1,956-square metresof passive green space, along the western edge of Hellings Park, which is to be incorporated into the grounds of Hellings Elementary School.
Materialsrelated tothe proposalssuchasthe proposed bylaws, detailed maps andotherinformation maybeinspected at DeltaCityHall, 4500ClarenceTaylorCrescent,Delta,BC, MondaytoFriday, excludingstatutory holidays from 8:30a.m.to4:45p.m.fromThursday, June 27,2024 to Monday, July 8,2024
If youhavea general inquiryregarding the proposal or if youwould likeassistancetoinspectanyrelevantdocumentation, pleasecontactthe DevelopmentDepartmentby emailat development@delta.caorbyphone at604-946-3380.
Correspondencereceivedupto12:00p.m.onWednesday, J uly3,2024 will be included in the Agendapackage.CorrespondencereceivedthereafterwillbeprovidedtoCouncilin advance ofthe Council meeting. Allcorrespondence must includeyournameand fulladdress andwillformpartofthe public recordforthisproposaland bepublishedonthe City’s website.
���� Email: mayor-council@delta.ca OR ����
Writeto: Mayorand Council City of Delta, 4500 Clarence TaylorCrescent Delta,BCV4K3E2
One reply cited an emailfrom aDelta school saying that electric kick scooters are illegal throughout B.C., except in a handful(13)cities wherea safety reviewis under way. Evenincities participating inthe study, people still can’tuse themifthey’re under 16 years old.
The schooldistrict sent out theinformationfor principals to use intheir newsletters.
“It has beenbrought to
The Ministr y of Transportationand Infrastructure starteda three-year e-kick scooter pilotproject in2021, then replaced that last year with a four-year safety review.
Deltaisnotamong the cities participating inthe review.
Several studentsare using the scooters and whilethe schooldistrict doesn’t have a set policy, it’s just asking parents and students to follow B.C. rules
“A motorized bike at speeds coming toward you on a walking path, doesn’t make sense to me,” added anotheron the socialmedia post. As well, parents cannot permittheir kids, if they’re under 16, to ride an e kick scooter.
A/Insp. James Sandberg,publicaffairs manager forthe Delta Police saidthedepar tment hasn’t had any complaints about the scooters but willfocus onan educational approach ratherthan enforcement.
Review of e-scooters underway insomeB.C.
Tourism campaigns planned topromote Delta
SANDOR GYARMATI
sg yarm ati@delta-optimi st .c om
Deltacouncil recently approved a tourism service agreement with the Delta Chamber of Commerceand Tourism Delta. The $166,000infunding for 2024/25is to help various tourismprogramsand initiatives.
In 2023, Tourism Delta cameundertheumbrella of the Delta Chamber of Commerce.
The change saw oversight by a new tourism advisory committee of the chamber, which was to include representation from the current Tourism Delta board.
Tourism Delta had operated as Delta’s Destination Marketing
Organization and managed the“We Love Delta” brandunder a service agreement withtheCity of Delta, an agreement that expired last year. Together, the twoorganizations operated the Delta Visitor Centre and the Destination Management Organization, as wellas managing the“We Love Delta” brandand other tourismassets They also provided economic recovery support to Delta businesses under a tourism service agreement with the City of Delta. They willcontinue to actasthe Destination Marketing Organization for Deltaand have several tourism marketing campaignsplanned,including BCAleTrail, BC Farmers’ Market, BC Birding, Dine
Around Delta, Ladner Village eventsand revitalization support, launching support for the Barns to Beaches BikeRoute, and agri-tourisminitiatives including thecreation of farm tours or theexpansionof thefall harvest campaign
In addition to marketing, they willupdate and relaunch their “shop local” video seriespromoting small businesses in Delta.
The “We Love Delta’ brand,which promoted hyper-local tourismduring the pandemic, will be transitioned towards a more traditional campaign to attractvisitors to Delta,however, it will continue to be used to promote resident-focused campaign initiatives.
COMEVISITPOINT ROBERTS TODAY!
Delta SchoolDistrict upgrades to costmillions
SANDOR GYARMATI
sg yarm ati@delta -o ptimis t. co m
Anexpansion at Ladner Elementary is at the top ofthe Delta SchoolDistrict’s wishlist of capitalprojectsthat will be submitted to theprovincial government.
A report to the school board onthe proposed 2025/26 capitalplan notesthe latest enrolment projections for Delta indicate that student enrolment will continueits slow recovery from many years ofdeclineand that there is systemwide classroom capacity to accommodate theexpected numberof students fortheforeseeablefuture.
However, thedistrictis seeinga rapid increase in school-aged childrenincertain areas.
The report also notesthere are no schoolsinthedistrictinventory which have reached orare forecast to reach the end oftheirusefullife, but there is one modular connected pod at Hawthorne Elementary that will be reachingthe end ofitslife cycle withinthe next five years.
Major structuraloraccumulated maintenance needs willexceed thecost of replacement. Thus, thedistrictis resubmittinga proposalforthe replacement ofthemodular pod for$8.7M withinthefive-year capitalplantime frame
Among several otherprojects submitted for funding is a Delta Secondary roof refurbishment ($1,150,000) and district-wideheat pump replacements ($1 million)
Withthat inmind, thedistrict will once again submit, under the annual School Enhancement Program, a request for a six-classroom addition at Ladner Elementary for$9.7M to allow fortheprojected increase ofelementary school-aged children withinthat catchment inthe next three-to-seven years.
Various requests will be made under the Carbon Neutral CapitalProgram includinga Seaquam Secondary high voltage replacement ($500,000),while new accessibleplayground for Gibson Elementary ($195,000) will be requested under the Playground Equipment Program.
ThankYoutoourSponsors
Community Southpointe teamsupwith Rotary forStorywalkproject
TheGrade10art class at Southpointe Academy has joined forces with the Rotar y Clubof Tsawwasseninanticipation ofthe relocation of the Beach Grove StoryWalk to Diefenbaker Park
Underthe guidance of art teacher Sandy Kwok-Swan,the students crafted a stor y titled The MagicinDiefenbaker Park complete withoriginal illustrations.
“Thecreationofart is deeply personaland enriching. It nurtures curiosity andemotion, and sharing it publicly adds a layer ofvulnerability and purpose,” said Kwok-Swan.
The culminationof their efforts was celebrated duringa collaborative installation event at Beach Grove Park, where the studentsmet with Rotarians to installtheir custom-made story.
Emily Wrong, oneof the participating students, described the event as “a highlight of the year,” emphasizing how meaningfulit was to share theirartwork with thecommunity in such a
TSAWWASSEN ROTARY CLUBPHOTO
Undertheguidanceofartteacher Sandy KwokSwan,theGrade10artstudentsfrom Southpointe craftedastorytitledTheMagicinDiefenbaker Park completewithoriginalillustrations.
picturesque setting.
Fellow student Raina Zang echoed this sentiment, highlighting how theproject fostered creativity andcollaboration among peers whilecontributing positively to the local community.
Long-time Rotarian Tom Smithshared his enthusiasm for the future ofDiefenbaker Park, envisioning itas a hub for children’sactivities.
“Wealready have our
water park, musical garden,andlittlelibrary,” he said. “Adding the StoryWalk willgive kids another reason to enjoy Diefenbaker Park.”
Smithexpressed gratitude to Lukas Park, Literacy Outreach Coordinatorfor Delta, whose support helped financethe relocation of Storywalk to itsnew home
On Friday, June21, theTsawwassen FirstNationhosteda free family eventon NationalIndigenous Peoples DayattheTFN Spor ts Field.There were foodtrucks, a barbecuehosted by the Delta Policeand Delta Fire Department,craft fairand vendors, aball hockey tournament, face paintingandlocal Indigenousmusicians MurrayPorter& Wesley Hardisty, as wellasTFN youthper formances.
JIMKINNEARPHOTOS
Community
Nature Notes: Themagic ofsunflowers
PATRICIA KULIKOWSKI
Contributing Wr iter
Juneis a busy monthforDelta’s farming community andthe monththat we associate with strawberries, thefirst of the U-Pick berr y crops.
If you were berry picking atEmma Lea Farms last summer, you probably noticed the large plantingsof sunflowers.
The Husband family, owners of Emma Lea, regularlyparticipate in Delta Farmlandand WildlifeTrust’s stewardshipprograms. They plant cover cropsthat improve andprotect the soil while providing habitat for wildlife They have also introduced floral strips, planted infield margins, to increase pollinator habitat. Their strategic planting of sunflowers around the berr y fields last year gave usanopportunity to conduct research into sunflowers’ benefitfor soilhealthand pollinators.
Ourfirst soil samples revealed that sunflower standscontained high populationsof earthworms – 21 worms/ft2 on average. That was more thandouble the 10 worms/ft2thresholdwhich is considered a good populationinfarmland.Earthworms play a crucial rolein
enhancing soil structure andfertility. They feed ondecaying plant material, fungiand bacteria. Their waste, known as worm castings, containsvital nutrients and beneficial bacteria Just by moving throughthe soil worms help to loosenit, improving aerationand water filtration.
Bumblebee surveys showed that sunflower strips supporteda good density of bumblebees, with0.47 bumblebees recorded per survey minute In addition to brightening thefields to the human eye, the sunflowers provided anexcellent source of pollenfor bumblebees, especially in late summer and early fallwhen most otherplants have finished blooming.
Sunflowers willprovidethe same benefits to your home gardenasthey doon thefarm. You can enjoy theflowers knowing that worms are working to improve your soil and you areprovidinga muchneeded late season pollinator habitat. We will be out againthis summer doing more research inthe sunflower patch. Editor’s note: Nature Notes is a monthly column produced by Delta Naturalists and its community partners. For informationonmonthly meetings and more see:www.deltanaturalists.org and www.facebook.com/deltanats/
POINT ROBERTS SUMMER EVENTS
8am-11am: PANCAKEBREAKFAST attheGulfRd.CommunityCenter, AnnualfundraiserforPointRobertsEmergencyPreparedness JULY 4TH PARADESTARTS AT NOON fromBreakersparkinglotonGulfRd. Theme:SmallTownBigHeart.Let’s make thisanIndepen-danceparty!
There wasagreat communityturnouton Saturday, June22 for Delta SouthMLAIan Paton’sannualbeach clean-upin Boundary Bay. Followingthe clean-up,participants enjoyedabarbecue lunchprovided by TOOBat Paton’s farmin Ladner.
PROPERTY TAXESANDUTILITYCHARGES
A5%penaltywillbelevied to allaccountswithoutstanding balancesonJuly3,2024.
Anadditional5%penaltywillbelevied to allaccountswithoutstanding balancesonSeptember4,2024.
Paymentmay bemadethroughonlinebanking(preferred), cheque by mailordropoff at
Secondary schools welcomingnew rainbow flags
CATHRYNTUCKER
De lta Sc hoolDistric t
Students at twoDelta secondar y schools have been successfulinfundraising and advocating forthePride Progress flag to be placedin prominent locations at their schools to helpfostera sense of inclusivity, belonging and respect among students.
At Delta Secondary,theflag will be painted onthe main walkway leading up to the school.
“This rainbow walkway is five years inthe making,” said teachers Anna Munns, Jasmine Jassal andLauren Sortome, who help run the Gender Sexuality Alliance(GSA) Club.
“We can’t wait to see students’ visionfinally come to life. We’re hoping theflag will be completed by thedistrict’s Facilitiesand Maintenance team by thetime students return to schoolin September.”
Grade12 student Elizabeth
AtDelta Secondar y, thePrideProgressflagwillbepaintedon themain walkway leadinguptotheschool.
Graham and GSA Club student member said a rainbow walkway in such aprominent place really setsthe toneforthe type of schoolthat thisis.
dentscoming into the school that they are supported and accepted here forwho they are, which is something that can be quite literally lifesaving,” said Graham. “It alsoservesas a friendly reminderforanyone who may need itthat bigotry,
ontheother hand,isnot welcome at DSS.
“For a while, GSA members worked hard tochip away at thecost ofthe walkway by selling pronounpinsand baked goodsinthe cafeteria, until DeltaPride generously contributed $2,000. Additional funds were raised through my Capstoneproject. I organized a concert at the school,which I named Rock and Rainbows with performances by talented local artists whodonated their time.”
At Delview, the rainbow crosswalkis being painted in two sections. The first section willleadfromthe school’s mainentranceacrossthe parking lot to thebike racks and should be completed by early fall.
“Studentsinthe Rainbow Clubproposed the rainbow crosswalk earlierthis school year,” saidBrianne Miller, Trevana SpilchenandAngela Sweetland, educators and
Delta Police andits ProudInitiative
The relationship between policeandthe 2SLGBTQIA+community continues to be tempestuous, and reconciliation efforts remainessential.
As we celebrate Pride Month, allofus at the Delta Police Department acknowledge thisasan opportunity to reflecton our shared past, present andfuture withthe 2SLGBTQIA+community.
Many of our officers proudly and simultaneously wearthe badge and the flag, and we are committed to furtherbridging the gap between these communities.
Earlierthis year, some of our officers, who
aremembers ofthe 2SLGBTQIA+community,created anddelivered training to all DPD officersto share their personal experienceand to helpensure that officers are equipped to respectfully andprofessionally interact with members of the2SLGBTQIA+community.
Thistraining dove into Canada’s dark history, including criminalization, protests, parades, and legislative amendments It isvitalfor our officers tounderstandhow this shared past isnot so historical – forexample,it wasn’tuntil1992that the Federal Courtlifted the
ban barring queer people fromthemilitary Samesex marriage wasn’tlegalized until 2005,andthe Canadian Human Rights Act didn’t recognize genderidentity until2017.
Whileeffortsare made aroundthe world to be more accepting, many are stilldirected at furthering hate. The 2SLGBTQIA+ community continues to facediscrimination,criminalization, harassment, violence, and ostracizationglobally– including in Canada – purely for theiridentity. We don’t have to lookfar to see these struggles, demonstrated by recent actsof vandalism to Prideflags
throughout Delta
To help mendand kindlethis relationship, the DPD Proud Initiative (a peer-led internal support network) was established to provide aninclusive environment that strengthensthe department’s connection withthe2SLGBTQIA+ community,and to tackle existing barriers forqueer individuals to join policing and proudly embrace bothidentities
We also want 2SLGBTQIA+employees already among our ranks to feel safeand supported.
There is still so much work to be done – but we
leaders ofthe Rainbow Club. “Oneof our student members, Gray Edgington,wrotea proposal to present to school staff as well to the school Parent Advisor y Council(PAC).Gray wrote about thefirst day of schoolfeeling scar y forall, andhow much of a positive impact a rainbow crosswalk would have by accepting all students withcompassion even beforethey entered the building. Importantly, the crosswalk willalso raise awareness that Delview supportsthe LGBTQIA2S+community.”
DeltaPride Society has contributed $2,000which will fundthefirst sectionofthe crosswalk. Members ofthe Rainbow Club willhold several fundraising activitiesduring thenew school year, including making and selling Pride buttonsandholding bake sales, to raise fundsfor the second section, which willextendfrom thebike racks to the sidewalk on 116 Street.
We are proud to serve our community,who havesupported and accepted our efforts at reconciliation. We do nottake our invitation to participate inthese discussionsand eventsfor
granted; we understand thecomplex relationship between policeandthe 2SLGBTQIA+community Change takestime, and we are committed to the long run.
-Meah Peers (she/her), Policy Analyst, Delta Police Department
DELTA SCHOOLDISTRICT
PRIDEPRIDE DELT
Frombanners tobagsshowingPridein Delta
PHILMELNYCHUK
pmeln yc huk @d elta-optimis t.co m
The folks at Boundary Bay Quilters’ Guild have turneda negative into a positive by creating several totebagsfromPride banners thathave been slashed and vandalized in the last coupleof years.
The banners were part ofthe guild’s Banners to Bagsprogram, starteda year ago, whenthe sewers and stitchers began recycling hundreds of City of Delta street pole banners thathad been sitting in storage.
“Personally, I felt bad whenthePride banners were damaged andthe church [Ladner United]
was vandalized because I have a memberof my family whofallsinto one of those letters,” said Dawn Fielden, withthe Quilters’ Guild.“Who doesn’t know somebody, orwhois related to somebody,who would be part ofthat group?And to thinkthere are people out there doing stuff like that, it’s upsetting.”
Last June, several City of DeltaPride Month banners had black paint splashed onthem. Vandals also targeted inthe same fashionthe window that was showing theProgress Pride flag inLadner United Church in May 2023. Pride flags had been
moved insideafterpreviously being cut, egged and painted whenthey were displayed outside the church
Andin June2022,the Progress Prideflag displayed outside Deltacity hallalso was cut down
Fielden saidthat they received about 10Pride banners, fourofwhich had been vandalized Fromthose, thequilters made about 24 totebags bearing the rainbow colours, someofwhich had the damaged areas covered withembroidery. Those bagsin turn were donated to the DeltaPride Society.
“When we heard the stor y ofthe wounded
Prideflags, we madeit a point to rescuethose to make a statement,” said Guildmember Kim Holloway. “They have beenvisibly mended withembroidered hearts andflowers andthe words, ‘mended with pridein Delta.’”
The Pride banners thoughare butasmall part ofthe200or so artsy city banners ofall types thathave been recycled into about 600or700 tote bagsbearing vivid colours anddesigns.
“They become like modernart because we’re cutting themand turning them90degrees,” said Fielden.
Some bags sayDelta
or Tsawwassenorshow imagesfromlocal scenes
“It’s really fun to look at the banners. We get quite excited when some new banners are trotted out,” added Fielden.
In returnfortheCity of Deltadonating workshop space to the guild
on Mondays, the quilters give halfoftheirproductionof totebags to the city foruse aspromotionalitems. “They have been very happy withthem,” said Fielden.
The quilters then sell theother halffor$15 each as afundraiser
Pride Picnicset for mid-August
PHILMELNYCHUK
pmeln yc h uk @d elta-optimis t. co m
It doesn’t happen in June, during Pride Month, but that’s OKif the DeltaPridePicnic scheduledoesn’t match perfectly.
Because thepicnic, now marking its sixth year, willoffer a full afternoonofentertainment and willtake place later inthe summer, on Sunday, Aug. 18, in Memorial Park, from11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
“Every year, it’s grown and gottenbiggerand better, which is really wonderful,” said Christa Horita Kadach, withthe DeltaPride Society.
Last year, the event drewmore than500 people, whilethis year, atten-
danceshould be larger
Seeing the event grow is a positive sign but it also meansthat’s itneeded by more peopleas well, said Horita Kadach.
Eventsandtimesare still being confirmed but there will be lots going on.
Food trucks will be there, because itis a picnic, art vendors, as will resourcetablesand tents, to aidin a variety of areas. Organizations such asQMunity,Pflag, Sher Vancouver will be present as well.
Horita Kadach saidthe picnicisdifferent from otherpridecelebrations.
“This really started as a picnic because the peoplewho started it had young childrenandit’s continued to begeared forall ages, including
families with young ones.”
People can bring their own picnic basketand there’s entertainment as wellonthe stage.
But the booking process is just beginning so dates and performers remain to be confirmed.
“We always have live music. We always have … dance. And we always have other performers as well.”
Artsandcrafts, face painting, games, colouring and beading will be availableas wellasan accessible tent area for those whoneed more spaceforwheelchairs and seating for seniors.
As well,there will be a Chill Zone,a bitfarther fromthe stage, to give somequieter space
PHILMELNYCHUK PHOTO
The Boundary BayQuiltersandtheir Bannersto Bagsprogram.
Pride Month iscelebrated annually in June to honor the1969 Stonewall riots - one ofthefirst uprisings to achieve equal justice, opportunity and human rightsforthePride community. Raising or displayinga Prideflag is a sign of solidarity, inclusion and support of our 2SLGBTQ+community.
DeltaPride Society reaffirms our commitment to support, encourage, uplift and advocate forthe2SLGBTQ+community and theirallies Allyshipisn’t passive, but active and we encourage ever yone to joinus in a commitment to lis-
A messagefromthe DeltaPride Society
ten, learnand stepinto greater allyship, education, understanding and empathy fortruly all.
We are in a difficult seasonwhere we’ve seen too many examples of resources, medical care and human rights being stripped fromthe Pridecommunity which includes children, youth, adults and our seniors.
“None ofusare free untilallofusare free.”
Thisquote by Maya Angelou emphasizes our shared humanity and that our liberation is bound together. The absence offreedomanywhere is a threat to freedom everywhere. It’s a
callforempathy, mutual understanding, and collective responsibility. It encouragesus to look beyond our individual concernsand realize that our own freedomishollow ifitdoesn’t coincide withthefreedomofothers.
Thismonth (and ever y month) we remind the Pridecommunity that you are seen, loved and cherished!
Thank you for joining withus to make Delta a more inclusive, kind and safe spacefor our 2SLGBTQ+families and neighbours!
Thelocal classic car community is once again celebrating Canada Day with a classic car cruise.
As in year ’s past, the day will begin at 8 a.m. at the A&W at Tsawwassen Commons with a ‘Cars and Coffee’ event until 9:45 a.m. where drivers willmeet to speak about safety.
The cruise willfeature Delta Police assisting withtraffic control, which shouldhelpthecruise participantsarrive at their specific locations at a more precise time
The cruise this year willtake part in and around Tsawwassen only, which allowsfor more promotion ofthe
Sun Festival Car Show in August, as well, participants can get into more areas of Tsawwassen to be closer to the public near their homes
Here is the route:
1005 – Right onto 16th Ave. to 53A St.,left onto 53A St to 12th Ave.
1010–Belair and53A to regroup
1012 – Cruise resumes, right turnonto 12th Ave. to English Bluff Road to regroup
1015 – Cruise resumes, right on English Bluff to Pacific Drive
Quick Leftonto Pacific Drive to Wesley Dr. 1019 – Leftonto Wesley Dr to English Bluff Road 1020 - Right onto
English Bluff Road
1021 – Leftonto 8A
Ave. to Gilchrist Dr
1024 – Right onto Gilchrist Dr. to 6th Ave.
1025 – Right onto 6th Ave. to English Bluff Road
1027 – Leftonto
English Bluff Road to 1st Ave.
1030 – Leftonto 1st Ave. to Diefenbaker Park/56th St.
1033 – pull to the side across from Diefenbaker Park to regroup
1038 –Cruise resumes – Leftonto 56thSt. to 4th Ave/Southlands Road
1039 – Right onto Southlands Roadthru to 66A St
1043 – proceed straight thru bothtrafficcircles
andonto 3rd Ave.
1044 – Right onto 66A St to 1A Ave.
1045 – Left at the stop sign onto 1A Ave. to 67 A St
1046 – pass 67th St., then leftonto 67A St. to 3rd Ave.
1047 – at the stop sign, leftonto 3rd Ave. to trafficcircle
1049 – at thetraffic circle, take the first exit onto Boundar y Bay Road to BeachGrove Road
1052 – Right onto Beach Grove Road to 16th Ave.
1054 – at the stop sign, leftonto 16th Ave. to 56th St
1056 – at the stoplight, right onto 56thSt. to
Happy Canada Day!
Hereisthemapand route forthis year ’s Canada Dayclassic carcruisein Tsawwassen.
Baptist Church 1057 – at the 2ndor 3rd stoplight, right into the Baptist Churchparking lot 1100 – Cruise End–disband -Staff Writer
Celebrate Canada Day in South Delta
Canada Day will see two celebrationsfor families to enjoy in South Delta.
From10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Tsawwassen Boundar y Bay Lions Clubhosts Canada Day at Diefenbaker Park in Tsawwassen.
There will be food, officialopening ceremonies, Canada Day cake andfamily-friendly activities
Thenfromnoon to 4 p.m. inLadner, join the Kirkland House Foundationasthey host their annual Canada Day celebration atKirkland House and Harris Barn at HawthorneGrove Park
There will be a per-
formance by theDelta PolicePipe Band,face painting, crafts, refreshments, sack racesand a
chance totour Kirkland House andlearn about itshistory here in Delta -Staff Writer
HAPPY CANADADAY!
MayorGeorge V. HarvieandDelta Councilwisheveryone inour community ahappyandsafeCanada Day!
OnJuly1st,wecelebrate ournation’srichhistory,diversecultures,andthe spiritofunitythatbringsusalltogether.Let’stakethisopportunity to reflectonoursharedvaluesandtheimportanceofaninclusivecommunity.
Councillor DanielBoisvert,CouncillorJessieDosanjh, CouncillorDylanKruger, MayorGeorge V. Harvie, CouncillorAliciaGuichon, CouncillorRodBinder,CouncillorJenniferJohal
Canada Day
HeritageAir Park Fly-in Day
The DeltaHeritageAir ParkannualFly-inisset forthis Saturday, June29.All areinvitedtoattend.Therewillbeapancakebreakfastfrom9a.m.tonoon, abarbecuelunchstartingat12:30p.m.andaircraftdisplaysthroughoutthe day.The eventishosted by the RecreationalAircraftAssociation,Chapter85 DeltaHeritageAirParkOperatingCommittee.
(lefttoright):
City andNorth Delta Lionspartner for Canada Day celebration
The City of Deltaandthe North Delta Lions Club have partnered togetherfor this year’s Canada Day celebrationin North Delta
Traditionally,the Lions Club has hosteda Family Day event in June, but this year, the ClubandCity decided to forgo withthe Family Day andcreate an enhanced Canada Dayexperience
The day begins at 3 p.m. with a parade thentheopening ceremoniesand cake cutting at Chalmers Park, alongside a festivalfeaturing live entertainment, carnival games provided by Delta Church, inflatables, and a culturalcorner.
The North Delta Lions Club will host theiriconic barbecueandthe famous Lion Slide Inflatable, withthe Punjabi Maihi Church and Delta Church providing more deliciousfood options Anothernewaddition to this year’s event includesthe beverage garden, sponsored by the Delta FirefightersCharitable Society. To cap offthe celebrations, fireworks will immediately followa performance by Soulstream.
“The North Delta Lions Clubisan outstanding service clubdedicated to investing in North Deltaandits residents,” said Mayor George Harviein a news release. “TheCity of Deltaisproud topartner withthe Club to host an exceptional Canada Day celebration, combining the two well-lovedcommunity festivals to provideanenhanced and expanded event for our community.”
Canada Day TSAWWASSEN BOUNDARY BAYLIONS
Aparadewillhelpkickoff Canada Day celebrationsinNorth Deltaon Monday, July1.
going directly to supporting the community. The Lions Club has also providedsupport for major community projects, including theAnnieville Lions Park Water Park, Annieville Lions Park Picnic Shelter, theaccessible swing at Annieville Elementary School,and the Delta Hospital Foundation, among many others.
The North Delta Lions Club has coordinated North Delta Family Day for more than50 years, withproceeds
“The North Delta Lions Club has had thehonourofhosting the North Delta Family Day Paradeand Festival fordecades,” said Nicholle Dhaliwal, President, North Delta Lions Club. “We willcontinue our legacy in North Delta and our renowned Community barbecue to give this Canada Day thecelebrationitdeserves. We appreciate the many years of support fromthe community in participating inthe Family Day Celebrationand Parade withtheCity of Delta.”
-Staff Writer
Most seniors recognize that routinevisits to their physiciansare an important component ofpreventive health care.
Annualphysicalsare important for ever yone, but they’re especially important for individuals 65andolderwho may be more vulnerable to disease and various other health conditionsthan youngeradults.
For some, the day they receivea prediabetes diagnosis also marks the first time they’ve heard ofthe condition. Since so many seniors are affected by prediabetes, it can
LIVINGTHEGOODLIFE +
behoove anyone to learn more about it.
What isprediabetes?
Prediabetes is a serious health condition characterized by higherthan-normal blood sugar levels. When a person has prediabetes, his or her blood sugar levels are not yet highenough to indicate type 2diabetes, but that could change if prediabetes patientsdo not make changes to prevent suchaprogression
How common is prediabetes?
A 2023 study published in the journal Diabetes Care indicatesthat 464
millionindividuals across theglobe had impaired glucose tolerance(IGT) and298million had impaired fasting glucose (IFG) in 2021.Each of those conditions are hallmarks ofprediabetes, cases of which the study indicatesare expected to rise significantly by 2045. Whatcauses prediabetes?
When a person has prediabetes, thecells in his orher body donot respondnormally to insulin,which is a hormoneproduced by the pancreas that enables blood sugar to enter
cells, which thenuse it forenergy. The pancreas then makesmore insulin to get cells to respond, but eventually the pancreas cannot keep up, resulting in a rise in blood sugar.
How can I determine if I have prediabetes?
The sheer volumeof peoplewho have prediabetes but are unaware that they do begsthe question ofwhat individuals can do to learn if they have the condition before they develop type 2 diabetes Recognition of the risk factors forprediabetes is a good start. Anyonewho has any of thefollowing risk factors to speak with their doctor about having their blood sugar tested:
*Being over weight
*Being 45orolder
*Havinga parent, brotheror sister with type 2 diabetes
*Being physically active less thanthree times per week
*A history ofdiabetes during pregnancy (gestationaldiabetes)or giving birth to a baby who
Whatseniorsshouldknow about prediabetes
weighed more thannine pounds
*Having polycystic ovar y syndrome
*Being African American, Hispanic/ Latino American, American Indian,or Pacific Islander. Some Asian Americansalso are
at greater risk for prediabetes.
Prediabetes can be a precursor to type 2 diabetes, which only highlightshow important itis that olderadults recognize their risk for the condition.
-Metro Creative
How seniors can overcome a lackof motivationto exercise
Exercise has itsfairshare ofdevotees andmillions ofothers who recognize its value but still struggle to include workoutsintheir daily routines.
Motivation can be a significant hurdlewhenitcomes to exercise, and recent studiesarea testament to that difficulty.
Seniors whoaspire to exercise more frequently can considerthese strategies ifmotivation becomesanissue.
Exercise away from home: During the earlydays ofthe COVID-19 pandemic,a phenomenon thathasbeen characterized as“basement burnout” developed That referred to the lack ofenthusiasm to exercise at home when gyms and other fitness facilities were forced toclose as a public safety measure. Home workouts canbecome monotonous since most people do not have enough room at home to house the samearray of equipment that’s available at their local gym. Seniors can overcome monotonous workouts by purchasing a gym membership at a local facility. Many clubsofferdiscounted rates to seniors, and some even offer senior-specific fitness classes like yoga and Pilates.
Employ the buddy system: Seniors also can enlist friendsand familymembersto jointhemwhenthey exercise. Encourage neighbors orfriends to come along to the gym for a favored fitness class orinvite friendsand family onhik-
ing excursions or daily walks. Track your progress and celebrate your successes: Asexercise efforts pay increasing dividends, seniors may find it’s no longer hard to stay motivated. Successcan be measured in various ways Somemight aspire to produce healthierblood test results at thedoctor’s office, whileothers may hope to losea few pounds. However, you define success, celebrate when you achieve your fitness goals Rewards such as a spa day, a night out at thetheateror a weekend getaway canprovide allthe motivation you need to stay thecourse
Be flexiblewithyour routine: Mobility issues and otherphysical limitations may affect seniors. But such issues need not prevent aging men and womenfromexercising, evenifitdoes mean they won’t be able to hit the gym four orfive days per week. Mix up your routine so you can stillexercise evenif physical limitations make traditional workout routines more challenging. Go for nature walks on days when your body needsa break from strength-training and check theforecast at the start of each week so you canrearrange your routine if Mother Nature makes outdoor exercise impossibleoncertain days.
Many people find it hard to stay motivated to exercise. Seniors can tr ya few strategies to ensure they stay thecourse withtheirfitness routines.
-Metro Creative
LI V INGTHEGOODLIFE +
Seniorswhoaspireto exercisemorefrequently can considerthesestrategies ifmotivationbecomesanissue.
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Community
Liked by God
Today,“liking” something means clicking a thumbs-uporheart emoji.
However, for gay Catholictheologian James Alison, being liked by God isoneoflife’s most profoundexperiences
Alisongrewupasan evangelical Christian and converted to Catholicism at age 18.As a young adult, he studied theology, ministered to people with AIDS, and was ordained a priest by age 30. Years later, Alison’s clerical status was revoked after coming out andfinding himself at odds withtraditional teaching.
In his book, On Being Liked, Alisonexplores the themes oflove, acceptance, and belonging. Alisonobser ves that peopleare oftencon-
Minister’s Minute
the word “love” Alison, suggests we use the word “like” instead.
CHURCHDIRECTORY
fused by mixed messages that claimthat we are lovable, but... according to Alison,conditional andqualified love (often conveyed by the phrase “love the sinner but hate the sin”)binds morethan itliberates. Giventhedifferent ways peopleuse
Based onhis own personalexperienceand study of Scripture, Alison invites us to believe that we are liked by God. He wants us to feelthe delightful gaze of a deity whodeeply enjoys our company now,andnot just after we have done or changed something. Allowingourselves to be liked by God can lead to a life-changing relaxation ofthe soulas we begin to imagine“that God does actually want us to be free and happy, starting exactly fromwhere we are…”
During Pride Month, I hope that all who believe in God andidentifyas 2SLGTBQ+ have felt not only loved but liked by theirCreator.
Sacred Heart Catholic Church
3900 Ar thurDrive, Ladner 604-946-4522 sacredheartparish.ca
Summer Mass
Saturdayat5pm Sundayat 9amand11am Daily Massin the Chapel at 9am Mon-Sat
AllSaintsAnglican Church 4979-44A Avenue,Ladner 604-946-9179 •604-946-4224
Tsawwassen United Church 693 –53rdStreet,Tsawwassen Welcometoeveryonefor Worship &Friendship Sundays @10:00am RevDanielKirkegaard tuc@telus.net604.943.2911
“Be Faithful,betrue, be ablessing”
DELTA SPORTS
ContactIanat
ijacques@delta-optimist.com or call 604-998-3616
Islanders win one ofthree duringNIPDlacrosseday
IAN JACQUE S
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TheDelta Islanders Lacrosse Association hosteda day of lacrosse on Saturday at the Ladner Leisure Centre celebrating the game and National Indigenous Peoples Day.
Played infront of a good crowd all day,the JB2 Islanders opened up with a 15-6loss to the North Shore Indians.
Nate Brost scored twice with singles to Dylan Maskell, Oliver Hoegg, Ayrton Bodoand Charlie Glover.
The loss dropped the Islanders record to 5-7 on the season.
Up nex t, we re the JB 1 Is la nder s who be at th e Ma ple Ri dg e Bu rrards
14-9. The win improved the Islanders record to 11-6onthe season.
VaughnPinchinled the way withfive goals, whileBrady Mackay addeda pair
Soloefforts went to Keelen Magcalas, Simon Poole,Devin Virk, IsiahGill, Zachar y Milne, Michael Burt and Sebastian Miles.
The Islanders final regular season game is at homethis Sunday, June 30, with a2 p.m. faceoff at the LLC against Nanaimo
The day wrapped up withthe B.C. Junior A Islanders squaring off against the New West Salmonbellies.
New West was incontrolmost ofthenight leading 2-1afterthefirst
and11-7afterthe second period, scoring fourmore inthethird,for a 15-8 win. Rylan Weisbrod and Sam Strother each scored a pair, while singles camefrom Blake Young, TurnerAnderson, Austin Lamoureuxand Dylan Doucette
After winning three offour, the Islanders have now dropped three straight, to see their record drop to 4-7onthe season.
Deltahosts New West againon Wednesday night (June26) at 8 p.m., at the LLC, then plays five straight road games before closing out the regular seasonon Saturday, July 13, with a7 p.m. home game against the Poco Saints at the LLC.
The DeltaIslanders, wearingspecialjerseysinsupportofI-SPARCand NationalIndigenous Peoples Day, lost15-8totheNew West Salmonbelliesin BCJuniorAlacrosseleagueactionattheLadner LeisureCentre, Saturday.
Kyle Losse Tournament set for Canada Day long weekend
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Someofthe top bantamand pe ewe e baseball teamsfrom across the province will call Winskill Park home overthe Canada Day long we ekendas the y battleforthe top prize at the sixth annual Kyle Loss e Tournament.
Headlining the bantam tournament are the Delta Blue Jays who are in thethick oftheirprovincialqualifying tournament foranothershot at a national championship.
Joining the Jays are the Tsawwass en
Athletics, winners ofthe pe ew ee tournament last year, who have move d up to the bantamdivisionthis year. The squadiscoache d by Br ian Loss e.
His wife Niki, whoisoneofthe tournament’s organizers, says the tournament is a major highlight onthe scheduleforallthe teams
“It has truly be comea showcas e tournament that thes e teamslookforward to coming back ever y year,” she said. “It’s going to be a great we ekend of minor ballin Tsawwass en.”
Als o competing onthe bantam side are the AbbotsfordCardinals,Calgar y
Bucks, Chilliwack Cougars, Cloverdale Rangers, Coquitlam Re ds, Langle y Blaze,Mid IslandPirates, Parksville Royals, Vancouver Mounties, Victor ia Eagles, Victor ia Mariners and Whalle y Chiefs.
Round robinaction startsFriday, June28 at 9 a.m., with games at Ray Carter Fieldandthe Bantam Field at Winskill,andthree games at Cromie Park.
The semi-finalsare on Monday at 9:30 a.m., withthefinal at 12:30 p.m.
The peewee tournament willfeature the Tsawwassen AthleticsandLadner Red Soxonthehome side, withvisiting teamsthe Richmond Chuckers, North LangleyTrappers, Campbell River Tyees, Vancouver Mounties,TroutLake Little LeagueandAldergrove Dodgers. Peewee gamesareFriday, Saturday and Sunday at Field14, at Winskill, withthe semi-finalsandfinalson Monday at 9,noonand3 p.m. respectively. There willals o be 50/50fundraisingdraws and a fullconcession throughoutthe we ekend.
HOWTOPLAY:
Fillinthegridsothat every row, everycolumnand every3 x3box contains thenumbers 1through 9 onlyonce. Each 3x3box isoutlined with adarkerline. You alreadyhave afew numbers to get youstarted. Remember:youmust not repeatthenumbers 1 through 9inthesameline, columnor 3x3 box.
Moneyproblemscouldstressyououtthisweek.Don’t let yourselfgetoverwhelmed.Rememberthatthereare more importantthings inlife.Stayhopefulandfocusonwhat bringsyouhappiness.
TAURUS
April20-May20
You’reanenergeticandambitiouspersonwho loves a challenge. You’llachievesomethingextraordinar yat work orhomethatwill leadyoutosuccessorbringyoucloserto yourdreams.
GEMINI
Thisweek,youmaybetroubledbysomething like asecret youdon’twanttokeep.Think itovercarefullyandseekthe adviceofyourguardianangels.
Your relationshipmaybegoingthrough aroughpatch. Your partnermustshowyoumoreaffection.Don’toverlooksmall detailsduring anegotiationatwork,astheycouldchange everything.
Welcome to Chelsea Gardens,thisupperlevelhomeboasts1,783 sq.ft. oflivingspace. Thespacious kitchenopens to theeatingarea andfamily roomwith agasfireplace.Thislayoutincludes twolarge bedrooms,anensuitewith asoakertubandshower, and aguest bathroomwith ashower. Chelsea Gardensis asecure, gated55+ communityspread over23acreswithfabulousamenitieslikean outdoorpool,hottub,gym,librar y, workshop,and Fridaypubnights.
Don’tmissthis exceptionalopportunitytoacquireastandalone retail/officebuildingin Tsawwassen! Positionedontheprimary businessthoroughfare, thisproper ty isalsodesignatedinthenewly proposed Official CommunityPlan formedium-densitymulti-family redevelopment, potentiallyup to 6storeys.Currentlyleased to a veterinar yclinic,the existingbuildingboasts over2,700sqftofspace. Its layoutsuitssimilarbusinesses,medicalpractitioners,andmore, featuring afront reception,multiple examination rooms,andprivateofficeareas.
LANDASSEMBLY
1605116thAve,SouthSurrey | $4,888,000
MLS#R2875565
DEVELOPERALERT! This centrallylocatedsitepresentsa primeopportunityfor redevelopment. Situatedwithinthe King George HighwayCorridor Plan,thecurrent designation of15UPAoffersthepotential forrezoning to higherdensity. Similarsitesintheareahaverecentlybeen rezoned for6-12 storeymixed-usebuildings,highlightingthepotential forthis proper ty
144-2228162ndStreet,South
1,203sf |3beds |2baths
TheBreezebyAdera|MLS#R2871331
Discover TheBreezebyAdera,an award-winningdevelopment in SouthSurrey. Thischic3-bed,2-bathroom townhome features anamazinglayoutand atandem2-cargarage.Enjoyexclusive access to TheBreeze’sWest CoastClub,offering agym, yoga studio,entertainmentroom,andsauna.
Welcome to this fourbedroomplusdenhomethatisperfect foragrowing familyorhomeoffice!Onthemainfloor youwill find acozyliving room, aspaciouseat-inkitchen,the formal dining room,the family roomand aden.All fourbedroomsare locatedupstairsincludingthespaciousprimarybedroomwith alargeandbrightensuiteandplentyof storageandaccess to thesundeck.Other featuresinclude aprivateeastfacing yard,singlecargarage,andupdatedfurnace, hot watertank, skylights, fencingandpaint. Locatedwithin walkingdistance to HollyElementary,recreation,transitandmore!
Thelifestyleyouhave beensearching for! Aunique collectionof waterfrontresidences nestledbetween agolf courseand yachtclubwithdirectaccess to the16 km waterfront MillenniumTrail.Thisspacious1,200sq.ft. 2bed 2bathroomsuiteisthe formershowhome andloadedwith extras!Hugesouthpatiowithdirectstreetaccess.2 side by sideparking stallswith EV charging.Countr yclublivingwith a12,000sq.ft. Clubhouse.Ararefind!
“PILOT HOUSE” AGreat Buy@ $1,008,000
Bedrooms: 1•Bathrooms: 1 FloorArea: 515 sq.ft.
to INGASTOWNlocatedintheheartof Gastown’s HeritageDistrict. Acontemporaryonebedroomandone bathroomsuitecompletewithanopenlayoutandamplelight. Featuresincludepolished concretefloors,anefficientkitchen layout completewithquartz countertops, agas range,a built in ovenandEuropeanintegratedcabinetry.Enjoytheshared rooftoppatiowithanoutdoorkitchenandBBQarea.Close to Chinatown,Downtown,Railtown, Yaletown,transit,parksand somuchmore. Thisisan excellentopportunity to ownandlive close to allthatdowntownhas to offeror agreat investment. One storagelockerincluded.
Large3427sq ft warehouse in Tilbur yIndustrial Park.Gradeloading This unitoffers lotsofoptions withofficespace,warehouse space, mezzanineand retailoptions! Eastassess to Vancouver,USA boarders andairport. 1-2(mediumimpact industrial)allows forawide rangeof distributionandmanufacturingusesand somecommercialuses
125549 STREET
Delta,BCV4M3W6
5bed(s) 3bath(s)4,070squareft.
MLS#:R2897482
Discoveryourdream home inSunnyTsawwassen! This spacious3280sqftresidenceboasts 5bedroomsand 3baths,including a1-bedroom self-containedinlawsuite-anidealmortgage helper.Enjoyoversized rooms,brandnewpaint, carpetand flooring throughout. Stepsontothe brandnew34’ by 17’west-facingsundeck, perfect forrelaxingorentertaining.Situatedon alarge9268sq ft loton aquietcul-de-sacwith expansivewestand south-facing yards. Located in ahighlysought-afterneighborhood,thishome offers bothcomfortandconvenience.Don’t miss out-schedule yourviewing today!
Delta,BCV4M0A1
3bed(s) 2bath(s)1,863squareft.
MLS#:R2896720
Charming3 bedroomRancher Backing to Serene PointRoberts!Discoverthis 3-bedroom, 2bathroomrancher,perfectly situatedonannearlyquarter-acre south-facinglotin this peacefuland friendlycul-de-sacbacking onto Point Roberts. This 1863squarefoothome offers aharmoniousblendofcomfort and tranquility, makingitanideal retreatfor those seekinga serenelifestyle
$1,299,0
8219111BSTREET
Delta,BCV4C4T2
4bed(s) 2bath(s)2,450squareft.
MLS#:R2894520
This 3bedroombasement homes comes with 1bedroom unauthorizedsuite. Updates include kitchen, Frenchdoorsontolarge deckoverlooking extremelyprivate backyard. Real wood floorsup, updated bathroom, newoutsidedoors&crownmoldings, 2wood burning fireplaces,doublecarport, couldeasilybecomes garage &covered RV parking.Niceperennial gardenwithpond waterfall. Very cozyandcomfor tablehomein greatNorthDeltalocation.
HARVEY AMANDAis indebt− ed t oR oa dw ayTowing Lt d. for stora ge andtowing on 2019 KIAFORTEwithVI N #3KPF 54AD3KE057274 .A L ie ni sc laimedunderthe Act. There ispresentlyan amount due andowingof $3 ,539.11 plu sa nyadditionalcosts of storage, seizureandsale that may accrue.Noticeis hereby given thaton2024/07/12 or therea fter,thesaid vehicle wil lb es old.Thevehicle is curr entlystoredat Roadway Towing Ltd.,7391 Progress Place ,D el ta,BC, V4G1A1, and wasplacedin storage on February 9,2024.Fo rm ore infor mation,callRoadwa y Towing Ltd. 604−940−0329
