Museumof Anthropology at UBC Guided TouroftheMuseum
Friday,November8th,8:45am- 2:00pm
South DeltaPrimary Care Centre inthe works
SANDOR
GYARMATI
sg yarm ati@de l ta -o ptimis t. co m
It’s all about providing South Delta residentsaccess to a wider range of health services.
That’s theidea behind a proposal put for ward by the Delta Division of Family Practice, in partnership withFraser Health, to establish a Primar y Care Network (PCN) for Ladnerand Tsawwassen.
Already inplacein other communitiesacross B.C., PCNs are groups of GPpracticesthat work together, and with other healthand care providers and community services, to provide a more extensive range of care services topatients.
Noting PCNs are designed to integratea team-based primary care approach that meetsthe needs of a community through a network of services, Deltadivision’s Geri McGrath, in a presentation to city council on Monday, explained how PCN teammembers can includephysicians,
nurse practitioners, registered nurses, pharmacists, physiotherapists, Indigenous cultural advisers and many more.
Seeking provincialfunding, as wellas space for a clinicand a “health hub” inthearea, McGrath saidthe service can provideprimary care services forthose not yet attached to a doctor.
Virtual care and someafterhours care are among some of the benefits for attached patients.
Having conducted a survey and community engagement earlierthis year to identify health services gaps, theDelta division’s current strategy fora PCN includes recruiting several family physicians, who can be placed withinexisting clinics, as wellas within additional space for a hub centre or mobile hub.
Recruitment also includes getting other providers such as a geriatric nurse.
Council agreed to provide a letter of support for provincial funding to develop the PCN serviceplan.
An eventdesignedtohelpunpaid caregiversandelderly spousesnavigate theircaregivingjourneybyproviding helpful informationandsupportiveresources. Learnabouthelpfulproducts &services provided by localbusinesses OCTOBER 5TH •11–3pm
UPFRONT
GotNews?
Tsawwassen First Nationleaseholdpopulationgrowing
PHIL MELNYCHUK pmelnychuk@delta-optimist.com
Whilecitiesare trying to hitprovincialtargets for building newhomes, growthisalso underway on the Tsawwassen First Nation,where the number of leaseholdhousing units has jumped from about 200 to more than1,500,in the last dozen years.
Meanwhile, thenonmember leasehold population has grown from460 to almost 4,000, withthat numberprojected to reach 6,650 within two years.
By 2030,the total populationonTFNcould be about 8,780,according to TFN’s 2021-2026 Housing Needs Report.
“TFNis approximately halfway built out forthe markerhousing area units as approved underthe development plans,” said an Aug. 13 statement from the Nation.
It’s possiblemore housing could be considered in the future ifnecessary
But the Nation must first consider overall
development needs and benefit to thecommunity, says the statement.
Since2009,the populationofTFNmembers has grown from403 to 518in 2023,asnewhousing has been builtfor members as well.
While Tsawwassen First Nation speaks regu-
larly withtheprovincial government, so far, there haven’t beenany specificdiscussions withthe Ministry of Housing.
The steady streamof newhousing provided by TFNhowever, does not count as part ofthe3,607 newhousing unitsthe provincial government
has ordered Delta to build withinfive years.
The statement notesthe Tsawwassen First Nation Final Agreement (treaty) that cameinto effectin 2009, precludestheprovincefrom setting any new goals withoutconsultation withTFN
Providing servicesforall those peopleisdone with a raftof agreements with Deltacovering police, fire, drainage and irrigation and animalcontrol,while TFNprovidesits own sewer treatment withits own plant.
However, there isno agreement forproviding recreational servicesand TFN residents paythe non-resident rateto use Deltafacilities.
However, several rec facilitiesare already in placeontheTFN.
A three-hectare sports field was builtin2017and was recently expanded to 4.6 ha, offering two baseballdiamondsand soccerfields,a batting cage, lacrosse box, walking paths, playgroundand
fieldhouse. A 9,500-sq.-ft. youthcentre was builtin 2021,and10local parks have been built.A cultural hub at Tsawwassen Commonsisexpected to be complete later this year
The nationalso is working on a facilitiesplan.
“TFNandtheCity of Delta have always discussed recreationissues as part of our ongoing discussions about servicing, and we expect this will continueastheTFNcommunity grows,” saidthe statement.
It’s a commonissue throughoutthe region, and, “TFN remainscommitted to ensuring that there is a collaborative relationship with our neighbouring city.”
Delta Mayor George Harvie saidallof Delta isgrowing and putting demandson recreation.
“We have pressure inall our city withthe newhousing we’re doing too, noquestion about it,” he said. Council has discussed the issue many times, headded. He’s hop-
inga joint city andTFN councilmeeting thisfall can find solutions
In addition to recreation,TFNand Delta both need bettertransit, and the secondnorthbound exit out ofLadnerinto the newFraser River tunnel, Harvie said.
“That’sa big onefor bothofus,” he saidadding that it’s time to discuss creatinga recreation agreement between Delta andTFN.
He saidthecity recognizesthoughthat most growth will happenin North Deltaand wants to work onidentifying recreationalprioritiesthere, withthetimelineup to council,as soonasthe new Winskill Aquaticand Fitness Centre isunderway inthenew year.
“Withoutthe recreation infrastructure, you’re not a complete community,” Harvie said.
“Andalso, we’re not getting any assistancefrom thefederalorprovincial governments with regards to infrastructure.”
WorldExplorerEvent
Let’sExplorethepossibilitiesofthe Worldtogether!
Rainbow walkway welcomes students backto Delta Secondary
IAN JACQUE S
ijacque s@ delta -o ptimis t. co m
Students were welcomed back to school on Sept.3 with a new rainbow walkway at Delta Secondary.
The project, spearheaded by teachers Anna Munns, Jasmine Jassal andLauren Sortome, whohelp run the Gender Sexuality Alliance Club, is several years inthe making.
literally lifesaving,” said Graham. “It also serves as a friendly reminderfor anyonewho may need it that bigotry,ontheother hand,isnot welcome at DSS.
“For a while, GSA members worked hard tochip away at thecost of the walkway by selling pronounpinsand baked goodsinthe cafeteria, until Delta Pride Society generously contributed $2,000.
A rainbow walkway welcomedstudents backtoschoolat Delta Secondar y.
Grade12 student ElizabethGraham and GSA Club student member said a rainbow walkway in such a prominent place really setsthe tone forthe type of schoolthat thisis
“It’sa large, brightly coloured reminderfor queer, transandquestioning studentscoming into the schoolthat they are supported and accepted here forwho they are, which is something that can be quite
“Additionalfunds were raised through my Capstoneproject. I organized a concert at the school, whichI named Rock and Rainbows, with performances by talented local artistswhodonated theirtime.”
On the Delta Pride Society’s Facebook page, a message was posted saying, what a beautiful way to welcome our teens back to Delta Secondar y School.
“We are so proud of all
the youthwho worked to raise your voicesand fundraise forthis to come to fruition! We are so gratefulfor our SOGIand GSA leaders who see these kids, understand their need to be embraced and welcomed,andfor all to learn to leaninto greater empathy and kindness foroneanother!DPS is honoured to have been a part of this project!” - Withfilesfrom Delta SchoolDistrict
Hunter Roadplanapproved
SANDOR GYARMATI
sg yarm ati@delta-optimis t. co m
Councilon Monday approved a revised Tsawwassencondodevelopment proposalfor a site thathada previously approved application.
The development at 1219 Hunter Rd. includes 68 unitsin a six-storey building. A public hearing was not held because the rezoning proposal adheres to thenew Official Community Plan.
The project also includes two levels of underground parking with vehicularand pedestrian access from Hunter Road.
A previous application for a 40-unit, four-storey condo building was approved forthe site in June2022.
The owner subsequently submitteda new
application,citing changing economicviability and housing need conditions.
The revised development included 34 rental units, but the applicant has since changed the proposal to remove all rentals and have allunits as marketunits
Coun. Dylan Kruger saidit’s unfortunate the rentalunits were removed,asitis hard getting new rentalprojects built in Delta, but itis important to get housing built for families.
Coun. Alicia Guichon was theonlyone to vote inopposition,citing her concern about allowing six storeys.
The applicant requires several conditions to be met before thecity grants final approval.
A report to council notescommunity consultation,includinga public
information session, found support forthe design,height andunit mix, including larger sizes.
However, oppositionandconcerns were expressed about the building height anddesign, privacy,on-street parking, open-spaceconstruction, trafficand pedestrian safety, servicing as well as theconsultationprocess.
The applicant acknowledged thecomments but did not make further design changes, noting the applicationcomplies withthe OCP’s landuse designationandthedevelopment permit guidelines.
The report alsonotesa traffic-impactassessment concluded there would be no significant impacts.
Engineering director StevenLan said a full traffic signal will be installed at Fergusonand Hunter later this year.
forWednesday, Sept18at10am!
TheCity ofDelta’sPlantingOur RootsProject is back! Once again, theCityisgivingaway250 freetrees,helping us to work towardsour40%canopycovergoal.
Enterour contest, runningSeptember 18 –25, fora chance toreceive oneoffivevarietiesoffreetrees,delivered righttoyourdoorstepinOctober.
Driver in woman’s car death facesOctobersentencing
JEREMY HAINSWORTH
Gl acierMedia
A farm equipment driver who pleaded guilty todangerous operation of a vehicle in connection withthedeath of woman travelling in a car on a dark, road in Delta in 2021 will be sentenced in October.
Joan Sherry, 77, died at about 9:45 p.m. whenher2019 Nissan Sentra struck a BC Frozen Foods-owned combine in thearea of Hwy.17Aand LadnerTrunk Road,on Oct. 1,2021.
Son Norm Sherry said theCrownis seekinga two-year conditional sentencefor Jasdeep Singh Sandhu, followed by two years probation, and a five-year driving ban.
He said thedefence is asking for three years probation, including a conditionwhere he’s notallowed to drive a farm vehicle
“I feelthat boththese recommendations donotfully reflectthe gravity of this crime andthetragic effects it has had on our family,” he said “Thereis no case law to go by regarding whathappened to our mother, and we feel that someform of jail time would be appro-
priate, so as to set the standard from here on out, andensure that othersare deterred from similar, criminal reckless acts like this fromnow on.”
He said no oneshould have to go throughwhat his family has endured.
“Ourmother was so amazing, we love her very much, andshe’s the type of personthat saw the best in ever yone, as well as the best in any given situation, and deep down,I know she wouldfeel that if her death can prevent evenone personandtheirfamily from having to go through such a terribletragedy,then she would rest in peace,” Norm Sherry said,noting Sandhu wouldnotlook him in the eye as he gave hisvictim impact statement.
“Mr. Sandhu plead guilty because that’s exactly what he is guilty... he is responsible for my mother lying besideher obliterated vehicleonthe highway with a yellow tarp overher, until the early hours ofthemorning,” he said.
Delta Police Department records obtained by Norm Sherry showed the vehicle was operated by Sandhu.
Sandhu,now 27, was charged with dangerous operation ofconveyance
causing death July 18,2023.
Recordsobtained by Norm Sherry said thecombine should not have beenonthe road,andthat its operators disobeyed at least two provincial regulations.
The recordsnoted after the investigation was complete, criminal charges were deemed not appropriate andno criminal charge recommendation was for warded to Crown prosecutors.
At the time, DPD Insp Heath Newton saidinvestigation evidencedid not meetCriminal Code charge-approval standardsandthat otherenforcement action was taken.
He said that action included anorder forthe vehicle to be inspected for safety defectsand repairs before it couldmove again, a violationticket to the driverfor not having rearlights, a violation ticket for failing to display flags onan oversized vehicleand a violationticket for failing to properly equip a vehicle
“Thecompany he worked for, BC Frozen Foods, actually tried to sue my mother ’s insurancefor damages to their Harvester,”he said. “So there was no remorse at all,and overthe past 1,068 days, notonce did thedefendant or BC Frozen Foods tr y to reach out and
offercondolences to our family for killing our mother. These are the type of people we’re dealing with The guilty plea rings hollow.”
Still, Norm Sherry pursued why that decision was madeandwhat merits charges in such a case
That led theDPD to seekan independent review ofthe file
The VancouverPolice Department trafficdivision conducteda review of theDPD investigation. That led to a recommendation that a report should be for warded to Crowncounselfor charge assessment.
However, Norm Sherry remains critical oftheDPD andthe justice system.
“Thingsneed tochange in how victimsfamilies are treated, investigations are done, and we need stricter sentence recommendations by Crown when dangerousdriving causes a fatality, especially withfarming vehicles,” he said.
“Hopefully whenthathappens, it too willprovide a hand in making sure that other families don’t have to go through what we did, because ultimately, myself and my family, just want truth, accountability,and to protect the public out there.”
Kruger wantedport police motion pulledfromUBCM
SANDOR GYARMATI
sg yarm ati@delta-optimis t. co m
A proposed funding mechanism for dedicated port policing couldend up having significant and unintended consequencesthat drives away business from B.C. ports.
That was the warning raised by Coun. Dylan Kruger Monday indiscussion on a motion he raised asking to withdraw thecity’s motion to be debated at next week’s Union of BC Municipalities(UBCM) convention, requestinga shipping containerfee.
Saying he supports theneed for enhanced policing at Deltaport andelsewhere, Kruger cited a recent letterfrom port operator Global
Container Terminals, which raises several concernsand requestsfurther consideration.
Council had endorsed the original motion requestinga container feefor submission to theUBCM,andit was subsequentlyendorsed going for ward by the Lower Mainland Local Government Association.
Kruger saidtheUBCM motion is “not a be-alland end-all” andthere would be otheradvocacy opportunitiesfor port policing.
Mayor George Harvie was opposed, telling Krugerhis motion was out oforderandthat Delta’s motion can only be withdrawn at the UBCM floor.
“I do not take lightly, at this moment, Global
Container Terminals sendinga letter asking for us to withdraw a motion.
“We all know theproblemsthis port facesand all ports across Canada. We allknow the fact that we have illegal drugs coming in with very little threat of being prosecuted or found. I’m looking for ward to commenting on theneed for a sustainablefunding mechanism, $10 per container, sowe couldactually move forward and pushthefederal government.. .” said Harvie
Kruger ’s motion was defeated on a 4-3 vote.
Coun.Alicia Guichon saiditunfortunate the GCT letter came so close to UBCM, and she would have preferred more time to considerthe concerns.
Published every Thursday by the DeltaOptimist, adivisionofLMPPublication
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 satisfiedwiththe response and wish to file a formal complaint visitthe website atmediacouncil. ca or call toll-free1-844-877-1163 for additionalinformation.
OPIN ION
Strange bedfellows
Editor’s Note
IAN JACQ UES
The politicalpicture in B.C. has taken a dramatic turninthe past few weeks.
To the surprise of many – includingthe BC United caucus, leader Kevin Falcon was alongside BC Conservative leader John Rustadon Aug. 28 to announce that he(Falcon) was suspending the United election campaign andurging supporters to throw their supportbehind Rustad. The move sent shockwaves throughthe party and left all sittingMLAs, including Delta South’s Ian Paton, with few answers as to what to do next.
After severaldays of soul searching and weighing hisoptions, Paton decided to join the BC Conservatives. Several otherlongstanding UnitedMLAs have retired, while a few others have decided to run inthe Oct. 19electionas independents Socialmedia, for themost part, has been kind to Mr.Paton,as many inthecommunity are happy that he chose to stay inthe race.
His other two options would have been to retire or run asan independent, butgiventhe current pollingnumbers,a majority government eitherled by the current NDP, orthe BC Conservatives, is the mostlikely scenario, meaning evenif Paton was elected asanindependent, his roleinthelegislature would be minimal.
There hasbeen negative backlash against Paton, with some residents calling hima sellout and questioning hismorals for joining the BC Conservatives I see it differently, however.
Paton had really no choice.
Falcon hung his party andhisloyal MLAs out to dry. Paton showed hisloyalty to Falcon and BC United right until the end. He hosted a major party fundraiser, just days prior to Falcon’s announcement. He wascourted by the BC Conservatives for months, but saidhe wasa team playeranddidn’t waver fromthat.
Joiningthe BC Conservatives was likely not highon hislist, but he wants to continue to fight for the people of Deltaand for the farming community acrosstheprovince.
This was theonly way hecouldcontinuethat fight.
We must listen to the stories of a dyinggenerationof pioneers
My fatherinlaw pass ed away last we ek. He was 87and had be enill for sometime It wasa peaceful death in his ow n homeofmore than 50 years, withhis family by his side, to sendhim off into theunknown
Antongrewupin Communist Yugoslavia. Aftercompleting his apprenticeshipinme chanics, hees cape d overthe border to a refugee camp in Italy and took a job in a coal minein Germany.
Freedommeant oppor tunity for a new life in Canada Soon,he was on a ship to Montrealand18months later, he sent for his German girlfr iend,who would be his wife for 65 years.
He built a successful automotive repair business in Vancouver, which is still going strong 51 years later.
We are losinga generation
Community Comment
INGRIDABBOTT
ofAntonswho were born during the Se cond World War andwho left Europe for a better future.
Like my parents who immigrated fromIreland, that generation came with a hard work ethic, skillsand valuesthat helped them to be come successful pe oplein all walks of life.
Here in South Delta, we have oneofthe largest senior populationsinthe Lower Mainland,andwhen
the y leave us, the y take their generation’s life experiences withthem.
Family dinners at my inlawsmeant storiesof Europe afterthe war, what it felt like to be a newcomerwho didn’t speak the language and finding community.
It ’s hard to relateto the stories be caus e they’re so vastly remove d from our ow n reality. But if we don’t, their life lessons will be lost.
My mother, stepfather andmother-in-law are all 80plus, so Anton’s death remindsme to talkless and listen more, be caus e soon, the y won’t be here.
We can learn withhearts wideopen from a generationthat experience d more change thanany generation before them, if we just listen.
Ingr id Abbott is a freelancewriter who doesn’t have to read the obituaries to be reminded of her own mor tality
Let’s stoppoisoningnature
Editor :
Thank you to Claire Gooding forher articleontheeffectoflight oninsects (Nature Notes : Light pollutionimpacts on insects, Optimist, Aug. 29).
Asshe pointed out, theuse ofinsecticides isalsoa major contributing factor to thedeclineofinsect species
We need to considertheeffectsof our ever yday use of dangerous chemicals, which can be hazardousfor wildlife, humansand our companionanimals. Take, forexample, the rodenticides used in rat traps.
First-generationanticoagulants, while legal,are toxic, andextremely cruel. They cause slow, painfuldeaths in ratsandthepredators who eat them as they slowly bleed to death internally
The BC SPCA , OWL (Orphaned Wildlife Rehabilitation Society in South
Delta),the Vancouver Humane Society and many otheranimal welfare organizationsare opposed to theuse ofall rodenticides, eventhose that are legal, due to theircruelty and potential for toxicity to wildlife andtheenvironment.
The City of Deltadoesnotuse rodenticidesin Delta’s facilities, but instead, usesmore-humanecontrolmethods, such asmechanicalquick-killtraps, building exterior checks andexclusion tactics.
I urge homeownersto insist upon methodsotherthan poisonfor rat control,methodswhich are readily available to pest-controlcompaniesas alternatives to poison.
Human-wildlifeconflictsdonotneed to cause animal suffering or harm to the environment. We have a choice.
Debra Probert
Careforourflag,theMaple Leaf
Editor:
As surely as September bringscooling temperatures and return to school,itincludesthe fading andfraying of the Canadianflag at the downtown Ladner post office This has become a regular fall occurrence.
One wouldthinkthe staff would know about this recurring pattern withtheirflag, frayed and tearingagainas Remembrance Day approaches Ifthe post officeis going to fly our Canadian flag, please have a sense
Regularthingtoseeflagintatters, sayswriter.
ofprideand care inwhat you run up your flag pole.
I gave up some years ago trying to speak with someone, so ever yyear I write you throughthe Optimist to encourage
you to have somepride in our country’s flag. It is both a disgrace andanembarrassment, especially to those ofus whoare veterans.
Jim Short
Bridge carnage needstostop
Editor:
Another day and another pileuponthe
Alex FraserBridge in the morning– yesterday (Sept 3)four cars and today (Sept 4) seven cars
Thisis ridiculousand there needs to be changes made
Drivers are consistently speeding, tailgating and ontheirphones
I’m sure everyone from Deltaexperiences someone racing across that bridge every time they cross it, sometimes at 150 kmh. We need enforcement andvisibility.
I understandthat if there wasa copmonitoring thetraffic, it would slow it down, but going sloweris betterthan being in stopped traffic
The carnage every day onthat bridge needs to stop. Stewart Wright
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Delta police Acting Staff Sgt. Gary Koonar has been selected asoneofthe recipientsofthe prestigiousIACP Top 40 Under 40 Award for2024.
This award,presented by the InternationalAssociation of Chiefsof Police, recognizes law-enforcement professionals underthe age of 40 who demonstrate leadership, excellence, andcommitment to theirprofessionandcommunities
Koonar servesas watch commanderfor A Platoon,where he leads a diverse teamof20officers with a focus oncommunity safety, teamwork, andproactive policing.
With a career spanning more than15 years, Koonar has exemplified operationalexcellence, investigative prowess, and a dedication to building positive cultural change within
thedepartment, saidthe Delta policein a news release.
“I amproud to see Gary recognized withthisinternational award,” said Acting Chief Guy Leeson. “Hisleadership, commitment to community safety, andmentorship have hada great impacton our department andthecommunity weserve. This award reflects his hard work, integrity,anddedication to policing.”
Koonar’s journey intolaw enforcement began inhigh school,inspired by thementorshipof a schoolliaisonofficer
He later volunteered with a community-based crimepreventionorganizationand pursued a degree incriminology, which laidthefoundationfor his career withthe Delta police.
Joining theDPD at the age of22, Koonarquickly distinguished himselfin various roles, including his work onProject Virtue, aninvestigationinto
childprostitutionand human trafficking that led to the rescue of a teenage girl.
His leadershipin gang investigations has also been notable, particularly through anintelligence-led initiative that focused on reducing the risk of gang violence andshootingsinthecommunity.As one oftheprimary trainers forthe Active BystandershipforLaw Enforcement program, Koonar iscommitted tocultivatinga culture ofaccountability andexcellence withinthedepartment.
“Each stepof my journey, from volunteering and pursuing advanced studies to my work on thefrontline, has beendriven by a deepdesire to make a tangible differencein my community,” said Koonar. “It isanhonour to be recognized among such a distinguished group of law enforcement professionals, and I amgratefulforthe support of my colleaguesandfamily.”
CABINET REFINISHING
POLICEPHOTO
Deltapolice ActingStaff Sgt. Gary Koonarhasbeenselected asoneofthe recipients oftheprestigiousIACP
Publicasked to report bad Deltahunters
SANDOR GYARMATI
sg yarm ati@delta-optimis t. co m
Hunting seasonopened last weekend inDelta.
The season runsfrom Sept.7 to March 10,2025, withprovincial and federal regulations allowing hunting one-half hour before sunrise, until one half-hourafter sunset.
Hunters must have several federal Migrator y Birds Convention Act and BC Wildlife Act permitsand licences, while hunters require landowners’ permission to hunt onprivate lands
The city onits website outlineda seriesof rules including restrictionsin Boundar y Bay, based ontheDischarge of Firearms Regulation Bylaw,where nofirearms discharge is permitted anywhere shown as, “Discharge of FirearmsProhibited.”
Earlier this summer, thecityasked the Delta Police Department to increase patrols inthe 2700-block of64th Street during theopening days of waterfowl hunting seasonsforfirearms-related violations.
The increase in patrols isin response to continuing glass damage at a nearby greenhouse operationfrom stray projectiles.
Last year, theoperatorof Houweling’s Nurseries Ltd.contacted the chairof the formerAgriculturaland Hunting Regulation Advisor y Committee about the facility continuing to incurfinancial losses from replacing greenhouse glass damaged by stray pellet shots
The complaint was first made back in2017, but despite thecity putting up signs at the64th Streetaccess point to educate hunters onthe expected code of conduct, theproblem has persisted
A staff report to councilnotesthat the operator saidthat since October 2023, thegreenhouse has had 31 separate instancesof reported glass damage, concentrated onthe south-facing side ofthe buildings
The Hunting Regulation Advisor y Committee this yearconcluded that educational approaches have not been effective.
The committee believes that only an “aggressive enforcement approach, where fines, andnot warnings, are levied, will correct current poor behaviour.”
TheCity of Delta says ifanyone witnesses someone violating hunting rules in Boundary Bay or els ewhere in Delta, to contact Delta police at 604946-4411.
Overthelastsix years, we have seen historicallosses to B.C.’s agriculturesector. Havingservedastheagriculturecritic,part of my role wastotravelacrosstheprovince to speakwith farmersand ranchersabout howtheirsectorsarefaring.Over4.6million hectaresoflandareinthe AgricultureLand Reserve, butB.C.isonly30%self-sufficient regarding foodsecurity.Weimport2/3of ourfood. Thereare breadbasketsall over theprovinceproducing avarietyofgoods. However,substantial stressorsareimpeding farmers’abilities to grow food.
Withno farmers at thewheelin Victoria, Ihavebeen exceedinglyfrustrated by the NDPgovernment’s lackofsupport forthe agriculturesector –whichis continually treatedasasecond-rateindustryandoften placatedwithinsufficientgovernment supportafter adisasterstrikes.Insteadof having achampionfight forthem, farmers acrosstheprovincefeelfrustratedand abandoned by thisgovernment.Here’swhy Isat with ranchersinMerrittafterthe historicalwildfiresburnedallthetreesin thesurrounding valleys,followedbyheavy rain,whichfloodedtheirbanksanddumped three-footmudslidesontotheir ranches. Siftingthroughthe stacksofpaperwork to getinsurance—mostfarmers were toldtheydidn’tqualifybecausetheyhad alreadyclaimeddamagesfromthewildfires.
B.C.’s agricultureinsurancestructureshave notbeenupdatedinyears —letalone for compoundingemergencies we seenow with climate change.
Thisneeds to change.
Mostrecently,Iheardaboutthetreefruit farmers’plightand wasonaplanethenext morning to theOkanagan to advocate for the330+ farmerswho were leftlockedoutof their TreeFruits Co-op facilityinOliverafter ahostileshutdown.Itcrashedtheindustry andleft farmerswithout cold storage,bins, ormarkets fortheirfruit. TheNDPtried to
findthemsome cold storage,tonoavail,and offeredup Ag-stability,afederalprogram thatiscostly to apply for, andonethat manyofthe farmersdidn’t evenqualify for. Farmersprotestedinthe streetsdue to these inadequate solutions. Thelistgoesonandon. B.C.’s agricultureindustryneedsbetter,more reliablesupport,andpartofthatisrevamping things at theMinistryof Agriculture. The AgriculturalLand Reserve(ALR)hasbeen thesamesinceitsinception –itneedsan overhaul to maximizefarmproductivityand usage.B.C.’sagricultureinsuranceschemes requirechanges,andlikeotherprovinces, we need to offer farmersimmediate interest-free loans to getthemthroughdisasterswithout themlosingtheshirtsofftheirbacks.
Locally,Icontinue to advocate forbetter solutionssothatDelta farmoperationscan continue to thrivefordecades tocome. Affordabilityaffects everyone,including Delta’sfarmers. That’s whyI amin favourof axingtheCarbonTax to lowerfuel costsfor farm vehiclesandequipment. Thischange will resultinlowerprices at thegrocery store forconsumers.
Additionally,sincebecominganMLA,I have introduced aprivatemember ’s bill to protectBrunswick Point,someofthemost arablelandinour regionand restingplace forwildlifehabitat,fromfuturedevelopment morethanthreetimes.Eachtimeithasbeen introduced,thegovernmenthasignoredthe legislation,lettingitdieontheorderpaper andpreventingtheopportunity fordebate or vote
I’madvocating forchangeslikethesedaily andhope tocontinuethisfightin Victoria this fall.
To learnmoreaboutIan Paton,visit leg.bc.ca/members//Paton-Ian.
Disclaimer: Thissponsored contenthasbeen paid forbyoursponsoranddoesnot reflect theviews of DeltaOptimiststaff.
Ian PatonwaselectedasMLA forDeltaSouthin2017and re-electedinOctober2020,andhecurrently servesastheShadowMinisterfor Agricultureand Food.
Photo viaMLAIan Paton.
Nexthousing progress report coming up for Delta
SANDOR GYARMATI
sg yarm ati@delta-optimi st .c om
It remains to be seen ifthecity will doany betterintheprovincial government’s eyeswhen itcomes to meetinga housing target for Delta.
The next reporting period on Delta’s progress wraps up at the end ofthismonth,a report thatmust be submitted to the Ministr y of Housing.
The reporting period fortheupcoming report covers Oct. 1,2023 to Sept. 30,2024.
In addition to reporting onthenetnewcompleted units,Delta must also report oninformation about actionstaken andprogress towards meeting thehousing target order. If a housing target has not beenmet, the city must also report any
planned actions towards meeting thetarget within a two-year period followingthe report.
Delta’s five-year housing target,handed by the province last fall, is 3,607 units, which isthe total minimum numberofnet newcompleted housing units required to comply withtheProvincial Housing TargetOrder.
According to theprovince, thatnumber reflects 75 per cent of totalprovincialhousing needs estimate fortheCity of Delta.
The first reporting period coveredOct 1, 2023 to March 31,2024. That first period didn’t go well forthecity after theprovince released a six-monthprogress report indicating several communities, including Delta, haven’t beendoing as well asexpected.
With spacious suites andvarious floor plans, Pacific Carltonoffersmore than just aplace to call home.Enjoy all-inclusivelivingwithfresh meals, housekeeping,activities, andmore. Centrallylocatedin SouthSurreywith ashort walk to shopsand services you’ll be glad youmadethe move.
Book atourtoday! 604-531-1160
Delta’s five-year housing target, handed by the province last fall,is 3,607 units
Following the province’s release of report on the first 10 municipalities to receivehousing targets,Delta Mayor George Harvie told the Optimist that relying ondevelopers to complete approved projectsquickly,and thenonly counting the occupancy permitsas a netnewunit, doesn’t accurately convey the stor y onwhat the city has done to encourage more development.
He pointed out the ongoing streamlining for a faster approvalprocess, which has resulted in fewer reports having to come to council, as well asthe major updateto theOfficial Community Plan(OCP)and zoning amendments to allow small-scale housing units on single-family lots. The city isdoing its best and has had many more units approved, but thedevelopment industr y faces challenges including delays due to highinterest rates, the carbontax , construction costsandotherproblems, said Harvie Kahlon responded that while there are challenges, othercommunities withhousing targets thathave been reported to making good progress, including thecitiesof Victoria and Port Moody,
were meeting their goals using the samemeasure.
Noting high-risesand single-family homes aren’tenoughwhen itcomes to housing options, he also believes that while Delta approved the zoning amendment forsmall-scale housing on lots, they are far too restrictive compared to theprovince’s suggested guidelines
In a previous letter to the mayor, Kahlon said while he appreciates Delta’s concerns about completions asthe primar y metricformeasuring progress towards achieving targets, the provinceiscommitted to measuring the targets against move-in ready housing completions However, building permits will also be considered as part ofthe evaluationof municipalefforts
to meettargets. In addition to assessing progress towards meetinga housing target, theprovince may also analyze marketconditions andotherexternal factors concerning housing development, he added.
Afterthe current reporting period isconcluded,the following reporting period will coverOct. 1,2024 to Sept. 30,2025.
The net numberof newly completed housing unitsin Delta will be measured annually and cumulatively withthe first year at 514 units Delta inits second yearisexpected to reach 1,098unitsofthe overall target, withthethird year at 1,785units, thefourth at 2,609unitsand,finally, thefifth year reaching the 3,607-unittarget.
Subdivisionapplication exceeds new small-scalehousingrules
SANDOR GYARMATI
sg yarm ati@delta-optimi st .c om
Th e Cit y of De ltais cons iderin g se ve ra l more su bd ivision ap plica tionsth at wo uld se e si ng le-lots sp litin to tw o, where onenew ho us e wo uld be bu ilton ea ch
On e isfor a proper ty inthe8400-blo ck of Broo ke Ro ad , an ap plic at ionth atha d already be en su bmit te d be fore theprov incial sm all-sc ale mu lti-unit re gu la tions(S SM UH), whic h pe rm itup to four units onmos t si ng ledetac he d andduplexzo ne d lotsin De lta.
Co uncil ap prov ed thos e by law amendmen ts earl ierthis su mmer, and so on aft er wa rd , gave final ap prov al to sw ee pin g up date s to theOfficial
Co mmunit y Pl anas w ell.
Staffnote the SSMUH optionsfortheBrooke Roadproper ty w ere review ed withthe applicant, however, the applicant chos e to procee d withtheirproposal. Shouldthe application be approved, the ow ners could buildadditional unitson each ofthe propose d lots, to have up to a totalofeight units, withoutfurtherconsideration by council.
It ’s a si milar st or y for theother ap plic at ions includin g, a propos ed tw o-lot sp litfor a proper ty inthe11 100- blo ck of Ke nd a le Way,where the ap plican t ha s als o ch osen to st ic k wi thone n ewhous e on each lot
A pu blichear i ng ca nnot be heldfo r th at zo ni ng ame n dme nt by law, either, asitadhe re s to
Sur veyhas concludedbut residents canstillask questions by contactingthecityplanner.
the OC P.
A re zo nin g ap plicationfor tw o si de-by-si de propertiesinthe11000blo ck of74A Av enue wo ulden ab lethe su bd ivisionoftheproperties from tw o to three si ngle-detache d re si dential lots, each havin ga new si ng le-detache d dwellin g. Sh ou ldthe ap plicat io n be ap prov ed , the ow n er s could bu il d
additionalunitson each ofthepropos ed lotsas we ll, to have up to a to talof12units, foral l three lotscombined. Th e city’s plannin g departmen t als o is re viewin g an ap pli cationin Ts aw wa ss en to bu ild ev enmore housin g unitson a lotthan wh at the n ew SS MUH ru les pe rm it
Th e ap plic at ionfor
theproper ty at 6525
Th ird Av e. isforan OC P amendmen t to re de ve lopthe site in to a 12-unit re si dential de ve lopmen t. Su bmit te d arou nd the sa metimecouncil ap prov ed th e new SS MUH zo nin g amendments, itisthefir st ap plic at ion to bu ild more thanfourunitson a re si dentiallot
Re quirin ga pu blichearin g be ca us e theproposaldoesnot adhere to th e new OC P, the ap plic at ionincludes tw o three -s to re y to wnhous e bu ildingsonthe we st si deofthe site, each wi thfourunits, as we llas tw o, tw o-st orey detache d ga ra ge bu ildingsonthe ea st si deof the site, each wi th tw o ap artmen t units ab ov e the ga ra ge s. It ha s not go ne to
councilforcon si derat ion.
Wh encouncilbriefl y dis cu ss ed th e ap plica tion ba ck in Ju ne, Mayo r Ge or ge Ha rv ie expres se d concern ab ou t su ch proposals in si ng le-famil y neighbo urho od s.
St affac kno wl ed ge d th at fourunitscould be bu iltonth e proper ty underth e new re gu lations.
St affals o not ed th at undertheprev ious OC P, anamendmen t wo uld have st ill be en re quired toch an ge the la ndus e des ig na tionforth e site
At thetime, st aff sa idthe ap plican t ha d onl y su bmit te d an OC P amendmen t, wi th a re zo nin g ap plic at ion andfurther ap prov als to be obtain ed should the OC P amendmen t be ap prov ed .
VolunteerBigBrothersneededin Delta Community
PHILMELNYCHUK
pmeln yc huk @d elta-optimis
t. co m
Kidsin Deltaandthroughout
Metro Vancouver are waitinga long timefor a Big Brother to help them figure out life
Currently,more than100 kids inthe regionare waiting to be matched with a Big Brother inthe community mentoring program.
But it’s not easy finding volunteers willing to commit to a yearas a Big Brother, so the non-profit has launcheda new campaign, 30 Men in 30 Days.
Big Brothers ofGreater
Vancouver helps kids reach their full potential thoughimpactful mentoring relationshipsincollaboration withlocal communities It offers six different free youthmentorshipprogramsfor children and volunteers ofall backgrounds
“Thismonth, we are aiming to recruita community program mentor per day,” Norman Galimski, marketing, communications and recruitment officer, said.
The demandis especially high in neighbouring Surrey where 100 families cannot even get on to the waiting list for a Big Brother because oftheshortage of volun-
teers.
Rose Higgins, director ofprogramsandoperationsfor Big Brothers, said many kidsinthat city have been waiting for two years because ofthe challenges of finding volunteers who can commit to the one-year program.
“We know there are community members out there who willing and able to volunteer, but we simply need to reach them. Our goalis to findthose individuals and jumpstart our Big Brothers Community Mentoring Program and reopen our Surrey family intake,” Galimski said.
Prosperity Fundtobenefitseveralgroups
The Delta Community Foundation ispleased to announce the recipientsofthe2024 Community Prosperity Fund.
The Foundationisproud to support a diverse group oforganizationsdedicated to fostering social inclusionand poverty reduction. The Foundation received more than$1.8millionin application requests with$505,000ingrants to distribute
The Community Prosperity Fund (CPF)isa multi-year program investing $25millioninto community organizations in British Columbia that are focussed on poverty reductionand socialinclusion.
Here are theorganizations receiving funding:
Deltassist
Better Cause Society
BC & Alberta Guide Dogs
Crossroads United Church
Delta Community Living Society
Delta Firefighter’s Charitable Society
Delta Gymnastics
Delta Stageworks
Delta StrokeRecovery
Eldercollege
Heron Hospice Society of Delta
KinVillage
Latino Workers Society
Mamas for Mamas
Starfish Pack Program North
Delta
Reach Child & Youth Development Society
South Delta Food Bank
Starfish Pack Program South
Delta
Step Forward Health Society
St. David’s Society
“The Delta Community Foundationisdeeply committed to supporting outstanding organizationsthat are driving positive change in Delta,” said chair Gail Martin. “Throughthe Community Prosperity Fund,the Delta Community Foundationis able to contribute to the well-being and prosperity of our community by empowering those whoare making a difference.”
For more information about the Community Prosperity Funding andthe Delta Community Foundation, see: www.deltafoundation.org or email: info@deltafoundation.org.
-Submitted
Community
Bloom andHarvestatGallery 1710
LAURELJOHNSON
Contributing Wr iter
Bloom and Harvest is the latest show atGaller y 1710 featuring 118 vibrant imagesfromthe South DeltaArtists Guild.
The show is running from Sept.6 to 29.
There isanintriguing demo this Saturday, Sept. 7 asartist Gillian Olson will perk your curiosity with Cyanotype, a fun method ofcreating imagesofobjectsand nature without a camera. Catch her working from noon to 3 p.m. andlearn something new.
The new year will soon be here, and our new calendarfeaturing work by our artists will be available; a special treat
BloomandHarvestisthelatestshowatGallery 1710 featuring118vibrant images fromthe South DeltaArtists Guild.
for12monthsofinspired images New artist’s cards are also available.
Galler y 1710ison56th Streetin Tsawwassen
nearthe South Delta Rec Centre.
New members who are starting theirartistic journey,orexperienced
NowServingSouthDelta
painters are always welcome to jointheArtists Guild. Galler y hours are noon to 4 p.m. Friday to Sunday
Freshwave hosting charity golf event
Freshwave Ministries is a South Delta based, non-profitorganization.
Since2010Freshwave Ministries has been serving food, clothing andgroceries to those inneed indowntown Vancouver.
For the last two years, Freshwavevolunteers have beenhelping theAnglican Church inLadner withtheir monthly community meal.
Recently an agreement was made to have thiscommunity meal become a biweekly event withFreshwave hosting themeal every fourth Tuesday ofthe
monthandtheAnglican Church hosting themeal onthe second Tuesday. Anyoneis welcome Freshwave is a charitable society that is entirely run by volunteers.
One ofthe mainfundraisers ofthe yearis theannual golf tournament. This yearit will be an18-hole golf tournament and supperon Sept 19 at Mylora Golf Clubin Richmond. Register forthe tournament at : https:// www.eventbrite.com
For more information contactFrank Sawatsky at fcsawatsky@telus.net. -Submitted
•$50
•$25
Community Earthwise can help you become a ‘gardenbuddymentor’
Connecting withthe natural world through gardening can deeply impact our physical and mentalhealth.
For years, Earthwise Society’s Therapeutic Horticulture Programs have harnessed theintrinsic power of nature to providehealing and wellbeing to peopleofall ages.
Thisfall,Earthwise Society will once againhost its Garden Buddies Mentor Training program, designed to equip new volunteers withthe skills necessary to work with and empower seniors in the garden.
The Garden Buddiesprogram connectsdifferent generations through weekly gardenmeetups, where participants engage in a variety ofactivities, discussions, and workshops related to food growing, healthy eating, small space gardening, and much more.
The MentorTraining Program, led by Katie McGillivray, Registered Horticultural Therapist (HTR), will be conducted through a seriesoffree comprehensive workshops.
Participants willdelve into the history and valueoftherapeutichorticulture, learneffective gardening techniques for seniors, and discover how to use horticulture to promote healingand wellbeing across diverse age groups
The training program will be divided into three sessions, combining both inperson and virtualformats.
The first session, scheduled for Sept. 16 at 11 a.m. willintroducethe Earthwise Garden, the Garden Buddies program, and therapeutichorticulture.
The second session, taking place online on Sept. 24from 1 to 2:30 p.m., willfocus onthetheoreticalaspectsof therapeutichorticulture and outline the next stepsforaspiring
CUSTOMBLINDS &SHADES
mentors. This session willfeature insights fromanexperienced Garden Buddiesmentor, who willofferpractical adviceondeveloping seasonal activities and adapting gardening tasks fordifferent populations
The finalcomponent ofthetraining willinvolve leading anactivity during a Garden Buddies Meetup sessionin October. This hands-onexperience will allow new mentorsto apply their skills in a real-world setting, reinforcing their training and buildinga connection with program participants
If you are interested in registering for the Garden Buddies MentorTraining Program, contact Katie at programs@ earthwisesociety.bc.ca -Submitted EARTHWISEPHOTO TheGardenBuddiesprogram connects differentgenerationsthrough weeklygardenmeetups.
LI FE STYLES
WDF dropsnew single ‘Lovesong’
After a six-yearhiatus, multi-award-winning, JUNO-nominated Canadian singer, songwriter, andproducer WDF (formerly Warren Dean Flandez) returns with a new studioalbum
Under his newly minted pseudonym, Tsawwassen’s WDF unveils [RE]Covered, an albumthat reimagines cover songs and explores the complexities oflove, loss, andthetrialsoflife.
The first singlefrom [RE]Covered,a fresh take on the cult classic hit Lovesong by The Cure, is scheduled for release on Sept. 13onalldigital streaming platforms
Thistrack will be accompanied by a Leo Award-winning music video, filmed partially in Ladner’s iconic Harris Barnandthebreathtaking Hoodoos ofDrumheller, Alta.
The albumalso fea-
tures revitalized versions of beloved tracks from legendary artists such as Fleetwood Mac, Paula Abdul, Lionel Richie, and Canadian music royalty Bryan Adams and K.D. Lang.
WDF’s return to music hasnot been withoutits challenges.
He spent several years privately battlinga chronicillness that affected bothhismobilityand voice. During this time, he madethedifficultdecision to step back from music to prioritize his health, focusing onfamily andcommunity engagement in Tsawwassen, cultivating harmony from a socialaspect rather than a musical one.
“Thetitle[RE]Covered carries a doublemeaning to me. Whileit refers to the reimagined cover songs on my album, it also reflects my personal journey of recovery and
Eventto report?
ContactIanat ijacques@delta-optimist.com or 604-998-3616
ThefirstsinglefromCovered,afreshtakeonthecultclassichit Lovesong by TheCure,isscheduled for releaseon Sept.13onalldigitalstreamingplatforms.
renewal, bothphysically andcreatively,” he said.
WDFisnot your typical faceofthe Canadian music industry.
For much ofhislife and career, hetried to fit into a mouldthat didn’t
quite suithim. Now,he’s redefining what itmeans to be a Canadian recording artist, diversifying the common narrative with a fresh, authentic perspective.
Bornin Yellowknife,
Northwest Territories, raised in Edmonton, andnow residing in Tsawwassen, WDF has embraced his rootsand reinvented himself in a way that istrue to his identity. His soulfully
charged, gospel-infused, genre-blending style continues to create music with purpose—a sound that resonates deeply with anyonewho hasa heartbeat.
-Submitted
Brian Minter visits Delta to encouragevibrantwintergardens
17.
The South Delta Garden Club (SDGC) presents renowned B.C. horticulturalist Brian Minter as itsfeatured speaker on Sept. 17 at the Ladner Christian Reformed Church
Minter willaddress several aspectsofinterest to gardeners inhis topic, The Art of Winter Gardening for Pollinators, Wildlife, Peopleandthe Planet
After last year ’s extraordinarily cold weather, what are themost important strategies fordealing with extremecoldin our gardens? Andhow can we design themost upliftingexperience? The expert nurser ymanfurther discusses
which plantsare the best candidates to attractand help our wildlife.
“When winter temperatures are 10degrees Celsiusor above, pollinators are actively looking for nectarand pollen,” says Minter.
“Which flowering shrubs are the best resources, andwhich berries offer birdsthemost nutritious sourceof natural food? Which grasses holdup best in winter to providenesting material.”
Minter willalso explore how gardeners can bring more winter colour to their garden through flowering plants, foliage, stems and berries
Ladner Christian Reformed Church islocated at 459454A St Doors open at 7, speaker presentation begins at 7:30 p.m. All are welcome Free to members Guests pay $10 at the door
Members and guests will have a chance to ask more questionsof the speaker after thepresentation andofficialmeeting.Plants will be offered for sale
For more information about the Clubandits activities visitwww. southdeltagardenclub ca orcontact clubpresident Susan Lilholt at : susan.lilholt@gmail.comor 604-306-1079.
Whenthe sun isshining andthe weatheris warm, whodoesn’t want to be outsideenjoying all Mother Nature has to offer?
The great outdoors often beckons, but italso has bugs Insects, particularly nuisance bugslike mosquitoes or biting flies, are unwanted visitors when enjoying thegreat outdoors
Weatheralso can puta damperon outdoor plans. It’s challenging to get freshairandenjoy the yard whenit’s raining, orconditionsare especially humid. Instead oflimiting time spent outdoorsto those occasionswhen conditions are favorable, homeowners can install Florida rooms to maximize their outdoor living potential.
The term “Florida room” calls to mind different things Somedefineitas a walled extensionof a home that features a roof, such as a covered patio, or lanai.
A Florida roomalsomay be a screened-inenclosure that surroundsa
pool area andisdesigned to keep bugs and wildlife out ofthe water. Peoplealso may consider a Florida room a sunroom, and it may be screened orfeature actual windowsthat can be opened. Those thinking about renovating to include Florida rooms can considerthefollowing details.
You don’t need to live in Florida : Florida rooms may be most associated withthe Sunshine State, but youdon’t need to live there to have one Consider your climate and build a Florida room that willmeet yourneeds. Do you want to enjoy the space year-round?If so, you mightneed some sort ofheating orcooling to keepthingscomfortable
Decideonthe right location: While Florida roomstraditionally are inthe backyard, select a spotthat works for you.If you want to maximize morning sunrises, for example, locate the room onthe sideofthehomethat faces east. If a viewfromanother sideofthehouse
is particularly striking, placethe Florida roomthere.
Determine your needs: Will you be cooking orentertaining inthe Florida room?If so, designa spacethat willfeature cooking and eating areas. Ensure plenty of ventilationfor a grilland considerother appliances to reduce theneed to make tripsinto thehouse. Althoughthe Florida roomcreates some measure of weatherprotection, choose
furniture andfixtures that can standup to outdoor conditions.
Add privacy as needed: Curtains, greenery,shades, andotherdetails can create privacy when you don’t want to be visible to neighbors.
Florida roomsadduseful space to a homeand can help residentsconnect with nature evenwhenconditions outsideare less inviting.
Thosethinkingabout renovatingtoincludeFlorida rooms can considerthe followingdetails.
At Home
A guide tovarious types ofhome awnings
Homeowners recognize that upgrades can improve thefunctionality andcomfort oftheir homes.
One way to make outdoor spacesmore accommodating is throughtheinstallation of awnings. Many homeowners wouldlike to enhancetheirhomes with awnings but donot know where to begin. Learning about the various types of awnings can help homeowners determine which option best suitstheirneeds.
Fixed awnings
Fixed awningsare stationar y on a building’s exterior. Whilethe awningsare generally stable, they can be damaged by snow or wind. It’s key to findaninstalla-
tionexpert to make sure the awning isinstalled correctly so that it can withstand weatherand otherissues. It’s also important to know that fixed awnings remainin the same positionand orientation, so its best to know exactly where to placeit beforehand.
Retractable awning
Retractable awnings are themost popular type of awnings because they can be extended whennecessary to keep a spacecoolorprotected, then rolled orfolded up whennotinuse. These awningsare advantageous because they can be retracted when bad weather hits to prevent damage
Motorized retractable awning
Motorized retractable awningsoffertheutmost convenience. Standard retractable offerings requirea handleor hand crank to manually extend orfoldupthe awning. Motorized awnings can be operated with a sensor, remote or even motiontrigger. Even thoughthey cost more, they’rea favourite among homeowners.
Areas ofuse
Awnings can be installed in various locations Patio awningsare much preferred because oftheir large coverage area, which typically spansentire patios.Door awningsare installed above theexteriordoor of an entryway to protect visitors and occupants fromprecipitationand
Learningaboutthe various typesof awnings canhelphomeownersdeterminewhichoptionbestsuitstheirneeds.
to improve thehome’s look Window awnings can addadditionalshade andprivacy. There also are side awnings, which are essentially walllike structuresthat run acrossa patio, garden
or balcony for windor sun protection. They’re also utilized to improve privacy.
Homeowners can choose from various types of awning materials, including fabric,
metal,glass, and others. Working witha reputable awning company isthe best way forhomeowners to peruse possibleproductsandfind awnings that will suittheirneeds. -Metro Creative
At Home
Warningsigns abathroomneeds work
Homeowners know that the work involved to maintain a homeisnever done The endofone project tends to rollinto the planning ofanother, and so it goes for years on end.
Fortunate are the homeowners who get to choose when to begin a renovationproject, but it’s farmore common that homeowners spotan issue andthen realize it’s time to renovate When it comes tobathrooms, which can be among the more expensive spaces to renovate in ahome, homeowners can keep an eye out for various signs suggesting the room needsa remodel.
sign a bathroom needs to be renovatedor remodeled. Mouldandmildew pose a notablethreat to human health, as moulds can cause allergic reactions. Individuals sensitive to mould may develop symptomsthat mimic reactions to outdoorallergenslike pollen,including sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and dermatitis(skin rash). Mouldalso can trigger asthma attacks in people allergic to moldwho have thecondition. Mould can grow in poorly ventilated bathrooms, such asthose without a fan orones inwhich fansare not working properly Mould and mildew will return ifit’s merely scrubbed away, so the underlying causeof mould must be
addressed to prevent its return.
Smallsignsof fading: Stains, peeling paint, cracked paint, and gaps ingrout are small signs offading that indicatea bathroom needsa renovationifnot a complete remodel. These issues also can serve as warning signs of larger issues, such as water issuesand structuralproblems, so they shouldnot be merely written offasminor problemsor eyesores.
Rising water bills: Some signsa bathroom couldusea littleTLC are notnecessarily confined to the roomitself. If water billsare rising significantly and do notalign withpriceincreases oran uptick in water consumption,homeowners may
have leaking pipes. Such pipesmight bebeneatha bathroom sinkor behind tiled walls Discoloration onthe walls, peeling paint or wallpaperand/ or a musty odor may indicate leaks inside a bathroom wall.Ifcoupled with risingwater bills, these signs could be indicative of a significant issue that requiresimmediate attention.
Issues withtiles : Cracked or damaged tiles intheshower and bathtub or evenon thefloor are unsightly and pose a safety hazard.Cracked floortilescanlead to slipsandfalls, which can be especially harmful to older residents And cracked tiles withinthe shower and tub area can indicate water problems
behindthe wallsor generaldisrepair Such issues should be addressed before they escalate into something larger.
A dated vibe: Of course, someissues affectinga bathroom are notnecessarily healthor safety hazards but more
anaffront to homeowners’ grasp of current styles andtrends If walking into a bathroom unintentionally feelslike stepping backward into a bygone era, thenit’s probably time to consider a renovationor remodeling job.
-Metro Creative
At Home Watchout for these poisonousbackyard plants
Spending timeinthe backyard can be restorative and relaxing. Is itany wonderwhy homeowners are increasingly improving their homes so that they can blurthelines between the indoors and outsideand enjoy more recreational momentsin nature?
sap intheleaves can cause phytophotodermatitis, which is a chemical reactionafterexposure to sunlight. Painful, severe blisters can form onthe skinwhereverit touches, andhogweed sap may cause blindness ifit gets into the eyes
treated with cautionor avoided altogether.
Part ofwhatmakesa landscape inviting isthe bevyofplantsdotting suburban landscapes. Individuals may take painstaking pleasure in mapping out landscapes that are bothfunctional and appealing. When selecting foliage, it’s wise forhomeowners to familiarize themselves with certain plants thatmay not be very welcomein theirentertaining areas, particularly those that are dangerous.
Poisonivy, oak and sumac may be someof the better-known poisonous plants, but there are others that can prove problematicas well.
Hogweed: Thisis aninvasive plantthat grows throughout North America but is particularly well-known along the Atlanticcoast. The
Lily ofthe Valley: This plant isknown fordelicate, bell-shaped flowers and a sweet scent. While Lily ofthe Valley isnot poisonous totouch, if ingested, toxic glycosides intheflowers, berries, leaves, and stems may causea host ofproblems, including disorientation, vomiting, blurry vision, and rashes.
Bleeding Heart : Native to woodlands, this perennialloves theshade. It producesuniqueflowers that resembletiny pinkorwhite hearts with dropsofblood at the bottom. Rootsandfoliage of Bleeding Heart contain alkaloidsthat are toxic to animalsifingested in highquantities
Nerrium Oleander : All parts ofthis beautifulshrubare extremely poisonous It should be kept away from petsand
Foxgloves: Adored among pollinators, Foxgloves produce towering pinkandwhite trumpet bloomsin early summer. The wholeplant is toxic if eaten,however. Peoplewho eat any part or attempt to make tea may findtheirheart rate slowing down or becoming irregular.
Stinging Nettle: Brushing up against Stinging Nettle can be a painfulexperience The plant has tiny stinging hairs onitsleavesand stems
Wild Hemlock : Thisis a very poisonousmember ofthe carrotfamily.Ifconsumed, Wild Hemlock, which looks like parsley, can cause healthproblems Toxins also can be absorbed throughthe skin.
Deadly Nightshade (Belladonna): A beautifulplant that produces shiny,black cherry-like berries, thiscontains a poisonthat can paralyze the gastrointestinal musclesand eventually theheart.
Youmaybedrawnto travelopportunitiesthis week.Atwork,serving peopleinalanguage inwhichyou’renot entirelyfluentwillbe a rewardingchallenge,both personallyandfinancially.
CANCER June21-July22
Ifyou’vebeen working hardtoeathealthyand exercise,you’llfinally startseeingpositive results.Perseverance isthekeyto regaining yourwell-being andselfconfidence.
LEO July23-Aug.22
Afriendwillsuggestan enrichingexperience. Respondingto a particularneedfor adrenalinwillprovide arefreshingbreakfrom your routineandboost yourself-esteem.
Ifyou’reexperiencing restlessnightsduetoracing thoughts,trytofindsome escape.Considersigningup for agymmembershipto help restorebalance.
HOWTOPLAY:
Fillin thegridsothat everyrow,every columnand every3 x3box contains thenumbers 1through 9onlyonce. Each 3x3box isoutlinedwith a darkerline. Youalreadyhave a fewnumbers to get youstarted. Remember:youmustnot repeat the numbers 1through 9inthesameline, columnor 3x3 box.
CHURCHDIRECTORY
Sacred Heart Catholic Church
3900 Ar thurDrive, Ladner 604-946-4522 sacredheartparish.ca
Community Hewillbuildhischurch
www.ladnergospelassembly.com
AllSaintsAnglican Church 4979-44A Avenue,Ladner 604-946-9179 •604-946-4224
‘“…what about you?” he asked.“Whodo you sayIam?” Simon Peter answered, “You arethe Messiah, the Sonofthe living God.”’ Matthew16:15–16
We celebrated our 125thanniversary at Ladner Baptist Church on Sept.8.
We hadformer pastors speak abouttheir time at the church,and currentmembers share theirexperienceof God’s faithfulnessthroughtheir years at Ladner Baptist Church
We sang songsfrom the past and songsfrom thepresent, allcentred aroundthefaithfulness
Afterthat we hada hotdogandcorn roast withlotsof chatterand reminiscing.There were displays setupin our fireside room withphotosandmemoriesfrom thearchives.
I wasin awetheentire day at howamazingly faithful God has been overthe years.
There have been33 pastors beforeme. In 1959Ladner Baptist Church startedanew church in Tsawwassen called South Delta Baptist. About15 years ago South Delta Baptist Church started Village Church,whichisone ofthefastest growing churchesin North America.
We alsoplanteda
church in North Delta andin Cloverdale.From ourlittle church in Ladner God has touched countlesslives withthe good newsof Jesus. It’s mind boggling.
Just after Peter rightly proclaimedthat Jesus isthe Messiah, Jesus responded by affirmingthat declarationand then saidthat it would be uponthat truth, “I will build My Church.”
WhenIlook back at what God hasdone over the yearsthroughLadner Baptist Church,I can tend to feel very insignificant. AndthenI remind myself,it’s His Church He will buildit,and He empowers weak,broken people to doit,allfor His glory. Whodo you say Jesusis?
Sports stories? ContactIanat ijacques@delta-optimist.com or call 604-998-3616
DELTA SPORTS SDSS Sun Devilskickoff new footballseason
Senior and junior varsity teamsbegin exhibition schedules as summerwinds down
IAN JACQUE S ijacque s@ delta-optimis t. com
The South Delta SunDevils have kicked off their 2024football seasonlooking to build on the success of their 2023 campaign.
The senior varsity team, led once again by headcoach Ray Moon, saw its2023 season come to anend with a provincial semifinalloss to Carson Graham.
“We have a young team, but as we continue with our practices andexhibition scheduleit is just about building,building up our team conceptsand getting battle ready,” said Moon, who spoke with the Optimist during the team’s first week of two-a-day practicesin late August.
“We have roughly 17Grade 12s and19or so Grade11s We hada good spring … wewere successfulinall three of our scrimmages, so it’s certainlya work inprogress.”
The squadisoff to a solid start with a pairofexhibition wins – 17-3 over GW Graham and a 17-10 win, last Saturday, in Kelowna.
The SunDevils host the Terr y Fox Ravensthis Saturday in theirhome exhibition opener at 1:30 p.m. at Dennison Park. They then play rival Seaquam at John Oliver Park on Friday, Sept 20, toclose out their exhibition schedule
the head coach andin charge of the junior varsity team –a teamthat lost itsfirst-ever trip to the provincial championship to Vancouver College.
Martens has losta few guysto the seniorprogram and won’t be bringing back a lotof starters
“But there is a great group of players that were right on the cusp last yearinGrade 9 and they didn’t geta lotofplaying time because we had so many strong Grade10s,” he said.
“I’manticipating huge growthfrom the Grade9s going into Grade10. It’s an exceptionalgroup. We have 38 guys out here in the first weekofpractice, so that’s very encouraging.”
The JV squadis1-1 so far inexhibition play with a 36-0 opening loss to GW Graham and a 31-12 win at home over Kelowna.
The SunDevils hosted Van College yesterday (Sept. 11), host Notre Dameon Sept 18 at 3:30 p.m. and close out their exhibition scheduleon Sept. 26 at WJ Mouat, in Abbotsford.
Moon says this year ’s squad isextra motivated to ensure that there isnot a repeat performance this season.
“There is a lotofthat extra motivationfrom the seniors and with the juniors
getting beat out in the finals, so between the two groups they have that chipon their shoulder, they want to prove something.They have a goal in mindand some key gamesthat
are on the schedule, especially now that we are back in the westernconference. There is lotsof work to be done to show what we are madeof.”
Scott Martensisonce again
“We have swapped conferences this year, sowe play a lot of AA teamsinthe regular season. We will have a lot of tough tests in the exhibition schedule, so that’s a good thing,” he said.
“We want to build.And those tougher games will help prepare usfor the regular season,and hopefully, a strong run in the playoffs.”
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