JIMKINNEARPHOTOS Wewillremember them: Youngandold were onhandinLadner onMondayatthe Remembrance Day ceremony, hosted by theLadnerlegion. See morephotoson Page 10andonour website atdelta-optimist .com.
UPFRONT
GotNews?
Big expansion for BC & Alberta Guide Dogs
SANDOR GYARMATI
sg yarm ati@delta-optimis t. co m
A big funding announcementforan East Ladner guideand servicedog facility willhelpimprove accessibility and the lives of many withdisabilities.
On Friday, Nov. 8, MP Carla Qualtrough, the Minister of Sport and Physical Activity,on behalfofthe Minister ofDiversity, Inclusionand Persons withDisabilities, Kamal Khera, was on hand at the BC &Alberta Guide Dogscentre onLadnerTrunk Road to announce$2.7million to support an expansionfor a state-of-the-art breeding andtraining centre that willproduce more purpose-bred dogs.
The first ofits kindin Western Canada, thenewBreeding& Training Centre of Excellence willprovide expertly trained Guide Dogs, Autism Service Dogsand OSI-PTSD Service Dogsacross B.C. andAlberta
Joined by other politicalofficials, as wellasmembers ofthe Guide Dogs, Qualtrough saidtheinvestment under the Enabling Accessibility Fundaims to eliminate or reduceexisting waitlists and increase access to programs and servicesfor persons withdisabilities
“As minister responsiblefordisability for so many years, and having got to work onthebig thingsforaccessibility and disability inclusioninthiscountry, I’m always reminded ofhow many peo-
CarlaQualtroughmakes thefundingannouncement.
pleare working ontheground to make lives betterfor people withdisabilities, the peoplewho work ever y single day to remove barriers, to improve access, to dispel myths, tochange attitudes, tochange minds, tochallenge the assumptions ever y day about what someone with a disability can and cannotdo, andthat’s what we have going on here inLadner ... that’s the work that’s beendone right here and will be donehere,” said Qualtrough
“When you have a guidedog, and I can tell you as someonewhoisvisually impaired and I have so many friends withdogs, it’s a lifeline It’s a way to explore the world confidently. It’s a way get out there. It means you have mobility. You can geta job. You can interact withthe world. You can volunteer You can contribute to thecommunity,” she added.
The project, entitled BC & Alberta Guide DogsBreeding& Training
Centre, willimprove theorganization’s training departments, easing theexperienceof current andfuture purpose-bred dog owners withdisabilitiesthroughthe implementationofan on-site veterinary examination clinic, andan appropriate, equipped and controlled training environment for Canadiansandtheirdogs.
William Thornton,whohelped found theorganization withhis wife Linda, andisthe current CEO of BC & Alberta Guide Dogs, saidthey plan to have 100 purpose-bred puppiesbred annually for guideand servicedogs
“Thisinvestment isnot just a financialcontribution,it’s a powerful endorsement of our missionandthe work that we do to serve and uplift our community. Withthisgrant, we are not only buildinganewphysical space, we’re buildinga future that’s more inclusive, accessibleand fullof potentialforallthat weserve,” he said.
A fewofthe pupsnow training and current servicedogsand clients were also on handforFriday’s event including Rosamund van Leeuwen,who has had her current dog for the last four years and saidshe had to go to the U.S. years ago, for herfirst guidedog.
Van Leeuwen remarked, “a white caneisnot a very happy companion to travel with.”
The expansion is to officially openin early 2026.
Loveyourears
Amongthoseonhand forlast week’smajorannouncementare(fromleft) DeltacityCoun. Dan Boisvert , DeltaMP CarlaQualtrough,MayorGeorge Harvie, Tsawwassen FirstNationExecutive Councilmember Taylor Baker, and city councillorsAlicia GuichonandJenniferJohal.
Federal governmentgives
Delta $7.6 million for two drainage-pump stations
SANDOR GYARMATI
sg yarm ati@delta-optimis t. co m
The City of Delta has received major funding from the federal government to help pay fora pairofcostly, but critical, infrastructure projects DeltaMP Carla Qualtrough joined members of Deltacouncil and staff, Tsawwassen First Nation Executive Councilmember Taylor Baker, members of the Delta Farmers’ Institute and others, at the 12th AvenueDrainage Pump Station last Friday to announce$7.6million for the new84th Street Drainage Pump Station and the Silda Drainage Pump Station.
“I tr y andtalk a lotin Ottawa about the vital rolethat Deltaplays in Canada’s economic gameplan. Butalso, we are this first lineof defencewhenitcomes toclimate change and when itcomes to making sure that vitalinfrastructure like the port, like our highways, isallpro-
tected. That’s our job but it’s disproportionate to the size of our community… we also need to recognize that itneeds to be up keptand we need to continue to evolve our drainage. We need to continue to evolve our pump system to make sure that we can be ready,”said Qualtrough
Mayor George Harvie said the new pump stations willplay a crucial rolein safeguarding Delta’s low-lying areas that faceflooding due to rainfall events,strengthening infrastructure and ensuring the long-term sustainability of Delta’s industrial sectorand agriculturalcommunity.
Noting severe weather from heavy rainand atmospheric rivers are becoming more frequent, Harvie said the funding allows Delta to address the risks headon.
Last year, the city submitted grant applications to the Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund program for the projects
Qualifying municipal projects will receive 40 percent federalcost share funding, withprojects to be completed by 2032.
The 84th Street Drainage Pump Station is to address flooding concerns, including water ponding on roadways, railway tracks and agricultural land.
Thestation will managestormwater, transporting it through a force mainpipeline to the dischargepoint at the Boundar y Bay dike.
The Silda Drainage Pump Station will reduce the risk offlooding around the Hwy. 91/17interchange. It is to also address flooding concerns, including water ponding on roads, railway tracks and pedestrian trails, as well asimpactsonlocal businesses in the low-lying catchment area.
The currentsystem ensuresdrainage of the floodplain by conveying storm flows to the Fraser River or the sea.
SANDOR GYARMATIPHOTO
All ofcity council to beallowed to make announcements
SANDOR GYARMATI
sg yarm ati@delta-optimi st .c om
It was another backand-forth between Mayor George Harvieand members of council last Monday
A motion thathad been put for ward by Coun. Jennifer Johal asked that othermembers of councilalso be giventhe opportunity to address the public, including recent activities attended by councillors, something that sees the current procedure only afford the mayor the chance to make an address nearthe start of meetings
Johal saidthe change wouldenhancetransparency andencourages the sharing of important information, updates and community events attended.
Whenthe motion was putfor ward at council’s previous meeting, Harvie remarked it wasa good idea, but on Nov. 4,he suggested that council do away with public addresses all together to improve theefficiency of meetings.
Harvie said stafffound only about 100 people tunein to seethe live councilmeetings on the internet, compared to the city’s social mediapages having thousands of followers
He noted announcements on thingslike key eventsand commemorations were inplace for many years before he became mayor, but in today’s digital world, residents don’t solely rely on council meetings to stay updated.
“I’m suggesting to make our councilmeet-
ings more focused and efficient, I proposewe consider removing announcementsfrom the regular meeting agenda and,instead,encourage residents to stay connected to thecity’s social media accounts, as well as the mayor andcouncil’s social platforms, our website, andlocal news outlets for the latest updates,” said Harvie.
Johal was strongly opposed to that recommendation, saying she was surprised sincehe had previously saidit wasa good motion to put for ward and Harvie’s “current stand seems to underminethetrue spirits of thismotion.”
She argued the purpose was to create a platform withincouncil meetingsthat fosters inclusivity,transparency andenhancesthe rela-
“By scrapping the announcements,I think that it’s doinga truedisservice to our community…I also think we’re reducing the opportunity for all of council toparticipate andshare important information,” she noted.
She later added the
idea camefrom a recent good governance workshop where inclusivity and equity were discussed
“I feel we’re just maybe stepping four steps forward and eight back by scrappinga motion and moving it to an online platform which we already have,” said Johal.
Coun. Dylan Kruger
agreed, stressing the importance of transparency and saying councillors should have opportunities to report on their various committees.
Coun. Dan Boisvert noted that whenhe was a trustee on the school board,alltrustees had the option of providing anupdate on their recent activities, something he had assumed wouldalso be an option whenhe ran for council.
Harviecountered he was only offeringa suggestion andallmembers of councilare entitled to bring up optionsfor discussion.
Council,including Harvie, voted infavour of having thecity report back on theprocess and any requirements to have allmembers of council have the option to make anaddress.
Photos with Santa!
NOTICE OF PUBLICINFORMATION MEETING Wewanttohearfromyou!
Deltaishostinganin-person,drop-in format, PublicInformationMeeting forthisprojectgivingyouthe opportunity to learnmoreandprovide your feedback to theCity.
Delta Hospitaland Community Health Foundation’s 25th Anniversary
DeltaHospital and CommunityHealth Foundation (DHCH Foundation) has announcedthatthe25th Anniversary,There’s No Place Like Home MoonlightGala,raised arecord-breaking $1,391,470.
This spectacular event tookplaceon Saturday, Nov. 2atTsawwassen Springs, and was dedicated to DHCH Foundation’srecently announcedComing Home capitalcampaign in supportofthenew Beedie Long Term Care Centre.
sincereappreciation to ever yone involved in makingourgalaan over whelmingsuccess, includingour committee ledbyco-chairs, Natalie WalkerandSarah Gallop, emcee, JamesCybulski, auctioneer,Ian Paton,all ourevent volunteers, as wellasfoundation board andstaff,” said executive -directorLisaHoglund.
VancouverFraserPort Authority, representing the Port of Vancouver.
“Weweresohonoured to awardourextraordinary hospital auxiliar y withtheTributeaward this yearfor theirinspiringgenerosityandcommitment to health care in ourcommunity,”added boardchair Andrew Jackson.
ContactAlexCauduro, SeniorPlanner,orEmmaAdams,Planner Development Department: 604.946.3380 development@delta.ca or
CajunRanch
Thisimportantfundraiserbroughttogether morethan350 business, community, government, andmedicalleaders for an eveningofcommunity spirit,liveand online auction excitement, a raffletripdraw, a50/50 draw,finedining, and unique entertainment.
“Our25thannual MoonlightGala hasfilled me withgratitudeforthis remarkable community. We want to expressour
“Wealsowanttoshow ourappreciation to all oursponsors, donorsand attendees.”
DHCH Foundation gave specialrecognition to the Delta Hospital Auxiliar ySociety asthis year ’s recipientofthe MoonlightGalaTribute Awardsponsored by
“Throughall their volunteersandcountless hours, the Delta Hospital Auxiliar ySociety raisesfundsthrough their entrepreneurial effortstoensurethemost criticalneedsatthe Delta Hospital campusare funded.”
-Submitted
JAYSHAWPHOTO
Big changes coming for Ladner’s Chisholm Street
SANDOR GYARMATI
sg yarm ati@delta-optimi st .c om
Chisholm Streetin Ladner Village willendup beinga one-way road.
That’s oneofthe proposalsbrought forward to council last week as theLadner Village Revitalization Action Plan was endorsed.
One of several projectsidentified by Ladner Village Revitalization Staff Task Force, a one-way road concept design for Chisholm Streetis being examined, considering parking, a multi-use pathway,activation spacefor the northern portionof the roadandwheelchair access to dike trail. In advanceof projects to revitalize Ladner Village moving forward, the city initiated anengagement program to remind
residents about theideas and recommendations ofthe previousLadner Village Renewal Advisory Committee’s seeking feedback on several proposals
A report to council notesthetask forceis focusing its revitalizationeffortsonwhat can be achieved over a five-, 10-and20-year horizon, taking action to advance notonly “quick wins” which require low effort but have highimpact, but also the“big bets” which require greater effort but have highimpactas well. Funding forthe various revitalizationinitiatives will be addressed on a project-by-project basis andasindividual project updates are brought forward to councilforconsideration.
“Thetask force will
The reportonthe communityengagementnotes thatparticipants were supportive ofimprovementstotheflowoftrafficonChisholmStreet, especiallyimprovements thatsupportsafe,active transportation,includingcyclingand walking.
develop several conceptualdesign options for a Chisholm Streetoneway roadconfiguration
inconjunction withthe tourist accommodation project. The roaddesign willinclude a multi-use
pathway, parking review, accessibility ramps to thedike, and streetscaping.The concept designs will be brought to councilforconsideration before going out to the community forfocused engagement. Ifthe design concept is supported by council,itisanticipated that a refined concept plan would be brought forward to councilfor considerationas part of the2026 Financial Plan,” the report explains
In a presentation by staff last week, council was told many participants during the public engagement agreed that a reconfigurationof Chisholm Street made sense, andthere isalready a preliminary design for a one-way street. Concern was expressed about parking.
The Ladner Village Renewal Advisory Committee, which released itsfinal report in 2020,discussed a number of options including the redesign of Chisholm Streetas a catalyst for revitalizationofthe waterfront andvillage overall. One idea was reducing the right-of-way width andconverting the road to a one-way configuration to increase the size of the uplandlots to render themdevelopable without theadjacent water lots.
The newvillage action planalso includes proposalsforthe Chisholm Streetand ElliottStreet wharfs, the potential tourist accommodation, Spotonthe Water Park, pedestrian activitiesand celebrations, as wellas branding and wayfinding.
11:30am /1:30pm
12:30pm /1:30pm
SANDOR GYARMATI PHOTO
Published every
Thursday by the DeltaOptimist, adivisionofLMPPublication Limited Partnership
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 responseand wish to file a formal complaint visitthe website atmediacouncil. ca or call toll-free1-844-877-1163 for additionalinformation.
OPIN ION
CanEby fill cabinet voidwithviable ministers?
ROB SHAW Gl acierMedia
Premier David Eby has begunthe earliest stagesofcrafting hisnext cabinet, after a week of one-ononephone calls withMLAs
It’s not going to be an easy task.
He’s facing12 vacanciesfrom veterans who’ve left,that he’ll have to fill.
Five ministers were defeated intheelection including Education Minister Rachna Singh, Agriculture Minister Pam Alexis, Lands Minister Nathan Cullen andministers of state Dan CoulterandAndrew Mercier
Seven ministers retired Finance Minister Katrine Conroy, Forests Minister Bruce Ralston,Transportation Minister Rob Fleming,Environment Minister George Heyman, Indigenous Relations Minister Murray Rankin, Labour Minister Harr y Bains andminister of state MitziDean.
That’s a lotof experience out thedoor. It equates to almost 43 per cent ofthe cabinet turning over
The firststepfor Eby will be to determine ifhe even keeps a28-person cabinet, orifhe starts redrawing ministriesandcreating new ones
Right now,thefull cabinet isactually 43 people, once you include parliamentar y secretaries. That’s onlya few positionsshy ofthe
entire NDP caucus, afterit was reduced to 47 seats in last month’s election.
It’s not out ofthe realmof possibility that thepremiergives ever y single personeither a cabinet post,a parliamentar y secretar y positionor a caucus job such as chairperson or whip.Doing sowould allowEby to hand out fancy titlesand pay increases to allhisMLAs, ranging fromalmost $24,000 to $60,000, which are important incentivesfrom a premierwho just presided over major electoral losses andforwhom caucus management will be a growing problem.
However, it won’t solve theproblemof what to do withthemost important, core, ministries
There, things get sticky.
Eby will have to decidewhether to keep Health Minister AdrianDix .
He’s the longest-serving healthminister in provincialhistory, andhe guided theprovincethrough COVID-19. But there wasa massive voter backlashintheelection overhealth care, specifically aroundlong waittimes, ER closures, staffshortages andcontinued lack offamily doctors.
The public wants action,not numbers, on theissue. Dix may be out.
Financeisthenext most critical portfolio, thoughit’s unclear what the positionactually entailsanymore. Conroy spent her 22-month tenure rubber-stamping Eby’s massive
We elected them,solet our
I’mnot particularly thrilled about losing trees in Winskill Park.I understand and appreciate some of the public outrage onthe issue. Personally,as I have noted on social media, I have 22 years ofdog-walking memoriesinthis forest and I will savour them.
I am, however, excited for the public to benefitfrom thebrandnew amenitiesthat Winskill will offer afterits reconfiguration.
Whenthe OCP wasa hot buttonissue earlierinthe year, detractors fortheimplied density wouldcitethe lack of infrastructure needed to prepare for that density in our communities.
TheWinskill redo, despite trade-offsthathad to be made, is anexampleof building infrastructure foranincreasing population
On local socialmedia, many of the peoplewho have been rallying fortheneed for infrastructure before density and population growth occur are the sameones rallying against thisproject that is preparing forit.
Thisisthe paradox of social media inthat it can be usefulin spreading information but equallydangerous innotproperly disseminating it to avoid nurturing unsubstantiated rumourand generating emotionalangst. I get that trees area sensitive topic - for several reasons - and I concur with many ofthem. In thecontext ofinfrastructure, I also understand how this wasa tough call by council,and I will live withit.
The local political skepticism we are currently living withis
spending spree, which has driventheprovincialdeficit to more than$9billionandaccumulated record debt.
Doesthepremier want the next finance minister to standup to him, andtr y to actually reinin spending?Or, isit a paper position to produce a budgetwhere allthedecisions are already made out ofthepremier ’s office?
A cabinetalso requires balance, not just in genderanddiversity but also in geographic representation. The former will be easy for the NewDemocrats, who have a diverse caucus with a large numberof women. But geographic parity will be impossible.
The NDPonly has five MLAsinallof rural B.C.
Vernon’s Harwinder Sandhu and Kootenay’s Brittny Anderson were both rookies last term. Now they looklike veterans compared to first-timers Steve Morissette in Kootenay-Monashee, Tamara Davidsonin North Coast-Haida Gwaiiand Randene Neill in Powell River-Sunshine Coast.
The NDP’s bench strength took a significant hitintheelection, so keepan eye on somenew names to make the cut to cabinetas well,including Christine Boyle (Vancouver-Little Mountain), Terr y Yung (Vancouver-Yaletown)and Jessie Sunner (Surrey-Newton) to name a few.
The full cabinet will be named Nov. 18 at Government House in Victoria.
governorsgovern
Community Comment
MIKESCHNEIDER
obviousfor several reasons, as we allknow.
The malcontents among usare calling for change and rallying for politicalalternativesinthenext
municipalelectionin2026.
That opportunity willcome, andthose whoare brave enough to make consequentialdecisions and have the resources to make a run for mayor andcouncil will saddleupforthe ridenext election - and good onthem!
In themeantime, our governors need to make decisions based onfarmore evidencethan you and I have the time to digest. When we elect our representatives, we must embrace a certain amount oftrust, lest chaosprevail.
Despite good intentions, attempting to overturncouncil decisions with petitionsand socialmedia rhetoricafterthe fact, isanoptimistic approach at best.
Let our governors govern.
Lucky to haveCarla QualtroughasMP
Editor :
Re: letter regarding tunnelfunding (Optimist, Oct. 31).
DeltaMP Carla
Qualtrough made a very clear statement inthe Optimist on several occasions, saying that federal funding will be available when theprovincial government getstheproject ready to go.
The provincial NDP chosea tunnel, rather thana bridge, but now intheir second mandate, thereare stillnoshovels intheground.
Regarding thecomments about the pension referred to in the letter, the pensionisonethat all MPs from every party get when they serve the required numberof years and reach
the required age.
Our MP has served the peopleof Deltain Ottawa, helping us get many services. She has spent hours onlong commutes across thecountr y and has missed a lot of time withherfamily. We have beenlucky to have her She deser ves thanks, not snarky comments.
Mar y Begin
Federalgovernmentout of touch with Canadians
Editor :
The latest immigration announcement from Ottawa clearly showsthe fedsare out of touch with Canadians
The current housing situationin Canada is that thecountr y isthree million homesshort of demand.
In a good year, the countr y builds about 200,000 to 220,000 homes. However, that willnot be happening this year, in2024. More likely,170,000 may be built.
But let’s bepositive and go with220,000new homes annually.
It willtake almost 14 years to solve the current housing crisisif immigrationis paused for thenext decadeor
so. Unfortunately, within that decade, 5,283,850 will have arrived on our shores, withnowhere to live, according to thenew immigrationlevels
Ever y time I hear the Prime Minister say heis working for Canadians,I cringe
Exactly how isthisnew immigration policy workingfor Canadians?
Using thenewimmigrationlevels, it willtake anadditional24 years to buildhomesforthenew immigrants
What is the government’s real goalhere?
I believe that the government wishes to be theonly landlord inthe countr y and make the situation so bad, with so many people chasing so fewplaces to live that
we will be onthe verge of social chaosandthe government will run to the rescueand put everybody into their version ofthe Canadiandream, much like they doin Russia and China.
I say to my fellow reader, go andfact check China and Russian real estate, and you’ll see how awfulit really is In China, there are millionsof empty apartmentswhere nobody lives inthem because they were never finished, because the government ran out ofmoney anddiscovered the people don’t want to live inthem anyhow
There you have it, the Liberals’ versionofthe CanadianDream. I wish ever yone good luck.
Barrie McDonald
The Optimist encourages readers to write letters to the editor Lettersare acceptedonany topic, although preference isgiven to those on local matters TheOptimist reserves theright to editletters and thedecision to publish is atthediscretionoftheeditororpublisher Alllettersmust besigned, datedandincludethe writer’s phone number(not for publication). TheOptimist will notprint “name withheld”letters Copyrightinlettersandothermaterials submitted voluntarily to the publisher and accepted for publication remains withtheauthor, but the publisherandits licensees may freely reproduce theminprint, electronic orother forms.
Young and old in Ladner’s Memorial Park on Remembrance Day -- to say thank you
11.11.2 4 R EMEMBERING
JoeMuegonew Delta Board of Educationchairperson
SANDOR GYARMATI
sg yarm ati@delta-optimis t. co m
TheDelta school board hasa new chairperson.
At the board’s inaugural meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 5,trusteeselected Joe Muego to serve as chair ofthe sevenmember board fortheupcomingyear.
First elected to the school board in the 2022election, Muego had served as vice-chairperson last year
The schooldistrictnotesthat Muego, anarchitect by profession,is passionate about fostering connected educational environmentsthat prepare students to meaningfully contributeto their communities.
He had served in many executive parent advisor y committee (PAC) positions over14 years.
His service carried over to theDelta district PAC where he sat asvice-chair andultimately chair
He now replacestrustee Val Windsor as chairofthe Delta school board, but
Windsor will serve asvice-chairforthe upcomingyear.
Fi rs t elect ed to the sc hool bo ard in 2011, Wi ndsor,a former te ac h erand De lt a Te acher s’ As so ci at ion preside nt , ha d se rv ed as bo ard ch air si nce 2019.
proposalsforaqualifiedenvironmentalprofessional to conducta watercourseassessment inthecityanddetermine anew classification systemthat willestablish riparian setback widths for each stream. Those standards are to followtheprovincial RiparianAreas Protection Regulation. Riparianareaslink water toland, bordering streams, lakesand wetlands.
TheCityof Delta has hundredsof kilometres of watercourses.
Delta’s natural hydrology has been significantly altered by historic modifications, particularlyinthelowlands, whilethedrainage systemis currentlyheavily manipulated by municipalinfrastructure, such as pump stations,flood boxes, weirs, bafflesand culverts.
Local governments
Riparian areaslink water to land, bordering streams, lakes and wetlands
must develop bylawsthat protectthe riparianareas ofall streamsthat either bearfishorflowinto fish-bearing streamsduring residential,commercialandindustrialdevelopment by ensuringthat aqualifiedenvironmentalprofessionalconducts a science-based assessmentofactivities.
Delta’s Official Community Plan (OCP) hasStreamside Protectionand Enhancement Area provisions, but thecity isnow inthe process of updating thos e by establishing riparian setbacks that willmeetor beat theminimum re quired setbacks fora watercourse.
The requestforpro-
posalsnotestheintent oftheprojectis to help property ownersand city staffpro-actively identifytheextent of StreamsideProtection and EnhancementAreas to protect riparianareas fromdevelopment encroachment.
“Thisproject has significantcomplexities and requires multiple stages ofplanningandimplementation.
“The scopeofthis projectisall streams (naturaland channelized streams, sloughs, ponds, creeks,brooks,ditches), springsand wetlands withintheCityof Delta butdoesnotinclude thetidal reachesofthe Fraser River, Boundary Bay,the Salish Seaor isolated waterfeatures that arenotconnected to fish-bearingwaters by surfaceflow,”thecity explains.
Theprovince must approvethecity’s standards.
Due to fundinglimitations,theproject must be completed by Dec. 31, 2025,thecityadds.
KristenThomas (DIRECTOROFDEVELOPMENT), Margaret &BobMeggy, KellyGuichon (BOARDMEMBER).
MOONLIGHTGAL A
Saturday,November 2, 2024 |TsawwassenSprings
We arethrilled to announce that together we raised $1 ,391 ,470 in supportofthe ‘ComingHome’ capital campaign forthe newBeedieLong Term Care Centre at theDeltaHospital Campus of Care.
Thank youtothisyear’s Moonlight Gala sponsors, donors, attendees and volunteers foryourincredible support!
Ingredients are inplace tostir-up Christmas Fairshoppers
ELIZABETHMURRAY
Stir-up Sunday has beenmoved for ward at St David’s Anglican Churchto ‘stir-up’ community support ofits Christmas Fair, this Saturday, Nov. 16,from10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The traditionof each family member helping stirtheingredientsofits Christmas Pudding on Stir-up Sunday, evolved into a culinary practiceinthe1700s. Occurring onthe last Sunday before thefour-week Seasonof Advent, the event dates to 1549. Its significance has been observed by the churchsince Victorian timesandits purpose
ParishionerAkeelahLaiatthe mixingbowl, watched over by Rosemary Gahr, convenerofthe Fair ’s bake-table.
remainsunchanged
However, today’s nod to modernity includesthepreparation of a broaderlist offestive culinary delights, andhopefully many des-
tined for thehome-baking stall at St. David’s Christmas Fair on Nov 16.
But there is much more. Shoppers who ‘Come to the Fair’ will find a myriadofusefulitems displayed for sale. In addition to home-baking, jams, jellies, Alberta Wildflower honey,and evergreen wreathsand swags, there willalso be new handmade stitched crafts Among these are tableplacemats, napkins, and potholders that includesmall-sized for pot lids. Stallsof jewellery and scarves, books and puzzles, household goodsandcollectibles, are all available at thisfour-hour marketplace. Heigh-Ho to the Fairand stay for lunch in St David’s Café
Christmasshow to benefit Freshwave Ministries
The Wander Inn Caféis welcoming in the Christmas season with The Seasonof Joy Christmas Show on Saturday, Nov. 23.
The concert will benefit the non-profitorganization Freshwave Ministries and willfeature Christine Magee n’Friends, singing bothtraditionalandfestive songs asthey perform solosand harmonious duets
Magee isan awardwinning singer, songwriter, arranger, pianist, plus a piano, vox, and guitar teacher. She hasa long history of performing soul, jazz, bluesand gos-
pel and isthrilled to share the stage with Jarome Lochkrin, Julian Neufeld, Emily Neufeld,and the Lighthouse Ladies Choir. Lochkrinis alocal singer, songwriter, guitarist with eclectictastes in music.
Neufeldis a local singer, songwriter, guitarist, guitar teacher, and Thespian, while Emily loves music and can sing everything fromopera to pop. She has begun teaching voiceunder the tutelage of Magee.
The Lighthouse Ladies Choir, underthedirectionof Leah Gorecki and Shannon Elliot, was
formed one year ago. Thisfaith-based group of womencome together weekly tosing and support each otherin a fun, encouraging environment.
In addition to the festive music, there will a silent auctionandone can purchase tasty treats fromtheconcessiontable.
Pre-saleticketsare availableuntil Nov. 22 at $20foradultsand$15for seniors and teens. Tickets can be purchased at Camille’s Boutique & Gallery in Ladneror at the doorthe night oftheshow for$25 foradultsand$20for
seniors and teens. The concert will be held at Lighthouse Church (5545 Ladner Trunk Road). Doors open at 6,concert at 7 p.m. -Submitted
Just like you need a licence to drive, your pooch needsa licence to be a dog in theCity of Delta.
All Deltadogsneed a licenceonce they reach six monthsoldandthey have to be renewed yearly,a task that is easierifdone sooner ratherthan later, because ofthediscount the city offers.
Any dog that getshisorherlicence onor before Feb. 28next year, can save $10off theusualfee of$35for a spayed orneutered dog, or$55foran unspayed orunneutered dog.
According to the city,ensuring Fido or Foofoo hasa tag means much quicker reunificationif your dog islost and
Delta staff pick uphimorher
The proceedsfromthe sales go towards helping the Delta Community Animal Shelter while a dog licence allows owners access to theshelter ’s off-leashareas anddog classes It also proves to anyone curious, that you’re the ownerofthedog.
Renewinga licence can be done onlineusing thecity’s Delta Online service or in person at Deltacity hall,as well as at the North Deltaand South Delta recreationcentres, the Delta Community Animal Shelterand several pet supply
storesthroughoutthecity. Renewals can also be done throughthe mail.
The city also has special licencesfor difficultdogs. Those must bebought in person at the Delta Community Animal Shelter.Thefee is$210foran aggressive or dangerous dog that’s beenneutered or spayed and $510foranunneutered aggressive or dangerous dog.
Residentswholive on Tsawwassen First Nations land have to buy their licencesfromtheTFN’s administrative office
As Christmas approaches, many churches will be looking to serve others– animpulse largely motivated by the Christian beliefthat thebirthof Jesus of Nazareth was God’s actof self-giving love to the world.
In response to thisloving gift, Christianslook to incarnate (enflesh)their love andgratitudeinthe world.
Recently, a congregant shared hisconcerns withme about how this generous impulse finds expressionthroughlocal support ofOperation Christmas Child.An initiative of Samaritan’s Purse, OCC invites Churches(mostly in the Western world) to fill shoeboxes with toys,
Minister’s Minute
across books like When Helping Hurts and Toxic Charity, andlearning from peoplewholive among vulnerable childrenin other parts ofthe world, I have come to see some oftheunintended consequencesofinitiativeslike OCC– mixing themessage of Christ’s birth with consumerismand materialism, local economic disruption, waste asitems are sent to placeswhere they are inappropriate, anddisempowerment.
school supplies, and hygiene items to be sent tochildreninmore than 170 countries. Many young shoebox recipients then go throughan OCC evangelizationcourse.
Years agoI participated in OCC, but aftercoming
The incarnation – the love of God enfleshed in the personof Jesus– is about thegiftofembodied presencemore thanplastic presents This Christmas, may we all seek to love peoplein ways that respect thedignity ofall.
Heart Catholic Church
AllSaintsAnglican Church 4979-44A Avenue,Ladner 604-946-9179 •604-946-4224
You’llbequitepopular thisweek,andyou’ll have alottoshare. Your sociallifewillbever y active,whetherinperson oronline.Expectyour partnertospoilyouwith actsofkindness.
Fillinthegridsothat 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.
DELTA SPORTS Fieldhockey official going out on topat WorldMasters
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Tsawwassen’s Alan Waterman’s illustriousinternational fieldhockey officiating careerisendingafter43 years.
Andwhat a close itis. He is currently in Auckland, New Zealand,where heis serving astheumpires’ manager at the2024 World Masters Hockey World Cup.
Like his rolein2022 at the Masters World Cupin Tokyo, Japan, Waterman runstheon-fieldofficials for the tournament.
Waterman has represented Canada asanumpire for 17 years, overseeing matchesinthe Olympics (Barcelona ’92), World Cup (Sydney ’94)and numerous ChampionsTrophies, among other tournaments.
“When I retired fromumpiring,I became an internationalumpires manager,” he said. “I have been doing that for23 years, including the Pan Gamesand various other tourneys
“This year,I turn 65, which means I must retire fromfield appointmentsfromthe FIH(International Hockey Federation) by theendofthe year, although I willlikely continueinadministrative roles
Sports stories? ContactIanat ijacques@delta-optimist.com or call 604-998-3616
Waterman willlikely geta chance to rub shoulders with a coupleofother peoplefrom Tsawwassen at the World Cup as both Corrie GuraliukandLandon Kitagawa will represent Canada againasplayers in their age/gendergroups Allthree cameupthrough the Falcons Field Hockey Club started by Jurgen Lankau, in Tsawwassen,in1968.
“Hockey has been part of my life since I was just eight years old,coming up throughthe juniorprogramin Tsawwassen, to provincial teams that triumphed in national championships,” he said.
“My love ofofficiating camefrom my dad,who wasa soccer referee in juvenile soccerandthemen’s Pacific Coast League. My first go inanofficial’s uniform was running sidelinesfor my dad. When my job in broadcasting tookprecedence over my hockeyplaying career,I switched completely to umpiring. Withinthree years (1981) I was aninternational.
“Sincethen,thehockey community has been my extended family.
“Theumpiresespecially have a close bond, bridging culturesand languages. Evenhere, in Auckland, for the World Masters, I’m meeting up withfriends fromcountries all overthe worldI have known for morethan 40 years. We’ve beenthrough a lot together and sowe remain close,” he said.
“Now,I carry on my role with masters. I joke that they will at least take measlong as I can still walk,” he said
“My FIH swan songwas this past June - the Pan Am Junior Championships - which,by chance, was in Surrey. This was thefirst time running aninternational at homeandonly the second appointment I’d ever had in Canada.” In response to taking onallthese duties, he was inducted into Canada’s Field Hockey Hallof Famein2019.
“Theexpressionin the sport ishockey isforlife. Andforme, that’s beenthe case and always will be.”
Freshmansoccer season a goodone for IsabellaBurtini
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Isabella Burtini has just finished offanimpressive campaign withthe University of Calgar y Dinos women’s soccer team.
The South Delta Secondar y grad registered seven goalsand seven assists fortheDinosand was named to the2024 Canada West all-rookie team inher
freshman season. The Dinos compiled an overall record of16-4-1,including 11-2-1in conferenceplay.
In the Canada West playoffs, she scored thelone goal ina 1-0quarter-final win overUBC Okanagan.
That win moved theDinos on to the semifinalwhere they dropped a 1-0 decision to Victoria.
The loss dropped them into
thebronze medal gamewhere they lost 3-2 to Trinity Western, to endtheir season.
Burtini scored the opening first-half goalforthe Dinos inthe13th minute, as a cross from teammate Grace Moore foundthefootofthemidfielder, who launcheda shot into the top right-handcorner ofthe Spartans’ net
Trinity Western scored the next two, only to see Calgar y tie
the score at 2-2. The Spartans scored the game winner late in the second half
“”I thought wewere consistent, and I think we showed that inplayoffsas well,” said Dinosheadcoach Diogo Rapso.
“We just need to ensure that when we get to these moments, we stay within ourselves andfind waysto win, not just play good football.”
IsabellaBurtini.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
Tsawwassen’s Alan Waterman’s internationalfield hockeyofficiating careerisendingafter 43 years.
It all started withthe South Delta Ramsand the South Delta SunDevils for JustinSmithand Stef Goulas.
The two players graduated from South Delta Secondar y in2017.
It is rare for two B.C. boysto receive scholarships to play football at an Ontariouniversity where they both had thegrades to be accepted into McMaster University.
There, they eachearned their Bachelor of Science Honours degrees in kinesiology,graduating in2022.
They both had dreams of becoming physiotherapists. They had applied to multiple schools knowing that this wouldprobably be thetimewhenthey would begintheir journeys at other schools.
Joina Climate Action Dialogue
Well, even rarer thanthefirst acceptance, both were accepted to the number one school in Canada for their master ’s degrees inphysiotherapy at the University of Toronto, graduating together earlierthis month
Both have physiotherapy jobsandare living and working inthe Toronto area.
Welcome to Salt &MeadowII! This stunningtwobedroom, two bathroom cornerpenthouseunitofferstheperfect combinationoflifestyleandluxury.Thisunitboastsgorgeous oceanviews andsunsets to beenjoyedthroughoutthehomeand fromthespaciouspatio.Brandnewandneverlivedin,withan openandtastefullydesignedkitchen, extending to thelargeliving roomwithsoaring ceilingsthroughout.Other featuresinclude access to theclubhouseincludingoutdoorpoolas wellas afitness centrelocatedinthebuilding,twoparking stalls,one storage lockerand AC.Convenientlylocatedclose to ampleshopping, restaurantsandmoreatTsawwassenMillsand Commonsand only25kmfromVancouver.
Welcome to SouthGrovewheremoder ndesignmeetsfunctionalliving.Thisbrightandluxurious home features 3bedroomsplus aversatiledenorofficespacealongwith 3spa-inspiredbathrooms. Thegourmetkitchenisequippedwithquartzcounter tops,stainlesssteelappliances, gasrangeand shakercabinets.HereyoucanenjoycoolsummerswithA/Corcozyupnext to the fireplaceinthe openconceptliving room.Thishomealsoincludes adouble garageprovidingamplespace forboth vehiclesandadditionalstorage! Centrallylocatedandjuststeps to SouthDeltaSecondar ySchool, South Park Elementar y, Winskill,Dennison Park,tennisandpickleballcourts. Contactme forall your RealEstateneeds! |www.michaelwawryk.com |604.910.7039
James W. Greene (Jim)passed awaypeacefullyat DeltaHospitalonNovember 7,2024,justninedays shortofhis94thbirthday.Heissurvived byhiswife of64 years,Mary, and theirchildren,Jim(Beverly andsonThomas),Shelley Froehler (neeGreene) (MikeandsonRussellanddaughter Katie) and Paul(sonLiam).
JimwasborninLimerick,Ireland,onNovember 16, 1930,toMargaretandAugustineGreene. Heis predeceasedbyhisthree sisters, Nellie,Peggy and Maureen. In1957,JimtravelledtoCanadaaftera briefstopinNew York, searchingfor adventure and anew startinCanada.Unfortunately, hewas in aseriouscaraccident,whichlefthimpenniless. Thankstothekindnessof hissoon-to-bebrotherin-law, JackieMaloney, he wasinvitedto Christmas dinner, wherehewouldmeet theloveofhislife, MaryFinn. Together,they starteda familyattheir homeintheDunbar area of Vancouver.Jimwasan active member ofthecommunityand coached bothsons’soccer. In1994,JimandMarymovedto Tsawwassen tocontinuetheirlifetogether,where they metmany new friendsand neighbours. They werealwaysblessed with greatneighbours.
Jimwasan electricianand superintendent and worked onmanylarge projects throughoutBC.He was wellrespected forhisknowledgeandskill.He wasamember oftheIBEWLocal213untilhe retired attheageof60.
Ireland remaineda huge partofhislife. He returned often toseefamilyandfriendsthatheleftbehindin thecountry heloved somuch.He oftenspoke fondlyofhisdaysrowingwiththeShannonRowing ClubinLimerick. Cherished memories ofnumerous adventures areoneofthemanygiftsthatheleft forhisfamily. Hisghoststories,however,remain someofthemostmemorable
Jimwas amanofhigh principlesandintegrity.He believed in honesty, astrongworkethicandfamily Hehad agreatsense of humourandloved to laugh.
Jim’sgreatest loveinlife,along withhiswife, were hisfourgrandchildren.Headoredthekidsand shared many stories andhisloveofhistorywith them.Heloved familyandlooked forwardalways to gettingtheentirefamilytogetherfor special occasions.Jimwillbedeeplymissed bythosehe hasleft behind,andwe take peacein thebelief thatheisnolonger indiscomfort butwithGodand thosethatheloved whohavepredeceased him.
A MassofChristianBurialand CelebrationofLife willbe held atSacred HeartCatholicChurch in Ladner on Tuesday,November 19at10am
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loSt
Christmas CraftFair
Saturday,November23,2024 10:00am –4:00pm
Admission
Non-perishable Fooddonation forthe South Delta FoodBank
