Delta Optimis December 19, 2024 by Delta Optimist

JIMKINNEAR PHOTO

UPFRONT

GotNews?

CommunityleadershonouredwithKingCharlesIIICoronationMedals

DeltaMP Carla Qualtroughhonoured members ofthe Delta community withthe King CharlesIII Coronation Medalduringaceremony at Ladner’s Harris Barn on Saturday, Dec. 14.

Thisprestigious recognitioncelebratesindividualswho have made significantcontributions to theircommunities, provinces,or territories, orachievedexceptional accomplishments abroad that bringcredit to Canada.

In May2023, to mark the Coronationof His Majesty King Charles III,theprimeminister announcedthe government’sintention to award Coronation Medals to Canadianswhoexemplify service, generosity,and leadership. Themedals highlight outstanding individualsfromall walks oflifewhoinspireand strengthentheircommunitiesthroughtheir dedicationandachievements.

Here in Delta,a public callfor recommendations revealeda remarkable listoflocalheroes.After athorough selection process, 36extraordinary Deltans were chosen to receivethishonour, recognizingtheirinvaluable contributions to thecommunity.

The Coronation Medals wereawarded to individuals represent-

inga wide spectrumof service,including public leaders, tireless volunteers, advocates, educators, artists,and young change makers.Among the recipients were localleaders such as the mayorandadvocates, alongsideunsungheroes like Rotary volunteers, danceinstructors, and small business owners.

Theseindividuals

exemplifythe valuesof community, belonging, and purpose, inspiringthenext generation throughtheirdedication and generosity.

“Thesemedalshonour Delta’s leaders, changemakers,andcommunity heroes—thosewholead us publicly and those who work tirelessly in the background,” said Qualtrough. “Fromthe

coachmentoring young athletes to the artistfostering creativityandthe volunteerensuringno one goes hungry, each recipient representsthe heartand resilienceof Delta. Deltaisa very specialcommunity,and what makesit specialis its people. Every day,in everycornerof ourcommunity, peopleare makingadifference. Whether

throughactsof kindness, generosity,or service,the peopleof Deltaembody the very best of Canada.”

Recipientsincluded: Leslie Abramson, KimberleyArthurLeung, Barbara Baydala, PeterBroznitsky, John Burr, Tsawwassen First Nation ChiefLaura Cassidy, Julie Chadwick, Gord Collings,Laurel Crosby, Renie D’Aquila, Katherine Dennison, Jane Devji,LauraDixon, Dr. Avis Glaze, Mayor George Harvie, Jacky Hillairet, John Horton, Victoria Huntington, Christa Kadach Horita, Carlene Lewall,Bruno Marti, Gail Martin,Bruce McDonald, Taylin McGill, Jill McKnight, Elizabeth Breeze Murray, Eliza Olson, Jyla Robinson, Jit Sangha, Major Rev. James Short, Anita Sihota,Dr Jack Taunton, Elaine Whiteand Tsawwassen First Nation Coun.Bryce Williams.

- Submitted

BoatesFamilyFoundationdonates $300KforKinVillageDayProgram

The Boates Family Foundation has madea$300,000contribution to KinVillage’s It TakesA Village campaign.

This generousgift will support theconstructionofanew kitchen in KinVillage’s DayProgram spacefor Older Adults,providing seniors with socialengagementand caregivers with much-needed respite.

caregiversin Delta.

“This generousgift hasaprofound impact,enablingus to enhancevital services,expand our capacity,andprovide evengreater support to adultsliving with dementiaand other challenges,” says Jennifer Fisher,CEOof KinVillage. “The Boatesfamily’scompassion andcommitment to our communityinspireus all.”

“On behalfof KinVillage, we extend ourheartfeltthanks to the Boates Family Foundationfortheir generous$300,000 donation to the It TakesA Village Day Program campaign,” addsKristen Thomas,directorofdevelopment.

“Weare very proud to support KinVillage’s It TakesA Village campaignandthecreationofanew space that supportsthefamiliesof Delta, a cause ourfoundationfullyembraces,” says Rick Boates,presidentof Unitech Constructionand representativeof the Boates Family Foundation. “This wonderfulprogramprovidesessential resources within ourcommunity,which notonly speaks to ourfoundation’s mission to fostergrowthandinspire positive change but resonatesdeeply withusasafamily.”

To date, KinVillage has raised $2 million towardsits$3-million goal to build thenew DayProgram space,which willoffervital resourcesfor seniorsand

“Thesefundscreate a much-needed kitchen space, supporting ourmission to alleviate caregiver burnoutandprovideessential respiteforthose caring for seniors. Your kindnessisashining exampleofcompassionfor both seniors andtheir caregivers.”

KinVillageisnowlooking to the community to help reach thefinal$1 million goal. To donate to KinVillage’s It TakesA Village campaign,visitwww. kinvillage.org/donate.

- Submitted

SupremeCourtjuryfindsman

guiltyin2017Deltahomicide

IAN JACQUES ijacques@delta-optimist.com

A man has beenfound guiltyin B.C. Supreme Courtforthe seconddegree murderof a 52-year-old Delta residentin2017.

Following courtproceedingson Dec. 10, a jury ofthe B.C. Supreme Courtfound Adrianus Rosbergen guiltyofthe second-degree murderof Allen William Skedden.

Cpl.Esther Tupper, media relationsofficer withthe Integrated Homicide Investigation Team(IHIT), saidno date has been setfor a sentencinghearing.

According to IHIT, on March2,2017, just before 1 p.m., Richmond RCMP responded to the22000-

Amanhasbeen foundguiltyinB.C. SupremeCourt in connectiontothehomicideofa Deltamanin 2017.

block ofFraserwood Way fora report ofafound body.

When policearrived, adeceased man was located withinjuries. The man’sdeath wasdeemed suspiciousandIHIT took conductoftheinvestigation.

Skedden was last seen

on Feb. 21,2017,and was reported asmissing to the Delta Police Department that same day, at which time,aninvestigation was initiated.

On Feb. 26,2022,the BC Prosecution Service charged Rosbergen with second-degree murder in relation to thehomicide.

InaccordancewithSection127(1)(b)oftheCommunityCharter,noticeisherebygiventhatthe2025 CouncilMeetingScheduleisavailableasapprovedbyDeltaCityCouncilatitsRegularCouncilMeeting heldonNovember4,2024.

Policeseekwitnessestocollision thatclosedHwy. 17forsixhours

IAN JACQUES

ijacques@delta-optimist.com

Delta policeareaskingforany witnesses to comeforward asthey continue to investigate a semi-truckcollision that closed Hwy.17in Delta for more than sixhours on Monday, Dec. 9.

Police sayafully loaded semi-truckdrove throughaconcretecentre barrierinthe7500-block of Hwy.17.

Thetruck went through two lanesof on-comingtraffic,and a concrete barrieronthe shoulderofthe road.

Whenthetruck came to rest,it blocked one eastbound lane, two westbound lanes,and the westboundshoulder of Hwy. 17, resultingin

a road closure lasting six hours.

Police saythere were noinjuries.

Investigatorsarenow asking witnesses to this collision to comeforward.

Ifany dash camera videoexists, police would like to obtain acopy.

Specifically,officers arelookingforany actions betweenthe truckinquestionandany other vehiclestravelling inthe samedirection at thetimeofthecollision.

Thetruckisdescribed asa maroon2006 Volvo tractor withablack-andwhite checkeredflag decalonits side, pulling aTridemcontainer chassis withanear-whitecontainerdecaled with “one” onthe sides. Thetruck

entered Hwy. 17 eastboundfrom Deltaport Wayand remainedon Hwy. 17 untilthecollisionlocation.

“Currently, we are looking to determineif thereisanyinteractions withother vehicles, to determine causeofthis crash,” saidA/Insp. James Sandberg. “If you witnessedanypre-collision driving behaviourassociated to thistruckorother trafficaroundthetruck, if you witnessedthe collisionitself,orif you have video, ourcollision investigators wouldlike to speak with you.”

Collision witnessesor publicwho have dash cameravideo cancontact the Delta police at 604946-4411andquotefile number2024-23160.

FirecontainedatVander ZalmpropertyinLadner

IAN JACQUES ijacques@delta-optimist.com

Afire wascontainedquicklyon Thursday, Dec. 12 at former B.C. Premier Bill Vander Zalm’s propertyin Ladner.

Delta Fire Chief Guy McKintuck toldthe Optimist that at 2:37 p.m., last Thursday firefighters were dispatched to theproperty at 3553ArthurDrive.

“Incidentcommandobservedsmoke coming outofall sidesofthe building,” said McKintuck. “All occupants had evacuatedandthere were noinjuries reported.”

McKintuck saidthefire attack team madeentryinto thehouseandextinguishedthefire.

Crews remainedon scenefor several hourscompleting clean-upand overhaul.

He saidthefireisnotconsidered suspicious,andinvestigationcontinues.

McKintuckcouldnot sayexactly wherethefireoriginated from, butdid

A fire was containedquickly Thursday afternoonattheproperty of formerB.C. PremierBill Vander Zalm.

saythefireinvolved twoorthree rooms at the back oftheproperty.

In all,22firefighters were on scene with six apparatus.

“It wasobviously a substantialfire,” he said. “Thefirecrewsdida very quick entryandan aggressive fire attack, so great jobontheir part.”

Delta police were alsoon scene assisting withtrafficcontrol. BC Hydro and Teluscrews were also at the scene.

HAPPYHANUKKAH

AstheFestivalofLightsbegins,DeltaCouncilwisheseveryone celebratingablessedandjoyfulHanukkah.

Foreightspecialnights,familiesandlovedonescometogethertosing, spindreidels,frylatkes,enjoysufganiyot,lightthecandlesofthe menorahonebyone,andsharetheinspiringstoryof theMaccabees’triumphandresilience.

MaythisHanukkahseasonﬁllyourhomeswithlightandlaughter,and mayitstraditionscontinuetobringjoyandmeaningtoallwhocelebrate.

ChagSameach!

YOURartworkcouldbe chosenasthenextDelta streetbanner!

Submityourmasterpiece byJanuary17,2025.

Holiday seasonishere, aperfect time to cleanandrevitalize yourshowers.Whether youhaveguests fortheholidays, or it’s just your family enjoying time together,ShowerShine canget yourshowerslooking brandnew without acostly renovation.Whoneedsthat expense atthistimeofyear!?

Recaulking

GroutRepair &Sealing

EasyClean GlassCoating

Preventive Maintenance

(lefttoright): CouncillorDanielBoisvert,CouncillorJessieDosanjh,CouncillorDylanKruger, MayorGeorgeV.Harvie,CouncillorAliciaGuichon,CouncillorRodBinder,CouncillorJenniferJohal

Published every Thursday by the DeltaOptimist, adivisionofLMPPublication Limited Partnership

5008 47A Avenue, Delta,BCV4K1T8

Phone 604-946-4451

Deliveries 604-946-5171 www.delta-optimist.com

PUBLISHER: MattBlair mblair@glaciermedia.ca

EDITOR: IanJacques ijacques@delta-optimist.com

REPORTERS: Sandor Gyarmati sgyarmati@delta-optimist.com

PhilMelnychuk PMelnychuk@delta-optimist.com

PHOTOGRAPHER: Jim Kinnear jimgkinnear@netscape.net

DIGITAL SALES MANAGER: MarianneLaRochelle mariannel@glaciermedia.ca

SALES REPRESENTATIVES: JohnGallinger jgallinger@delta-optimist.com

Ruth VanBruksvoort rbruks@delta-optimist.com

Lee Fruhstorfer lfruhstorfer@delta-optimist.com

John Avdic javdic@delta-optimist.com

SALES SUPPORT: Linda Calendino lcalendino@delta-optimist.com

DISTRIBUTION: Roya Sarwary distribution@delta-optimist.com

CLASSIFIED 604-362-0586

DTJames@GlacierMedia.ca

(Note,allclassifiedsare done overthephoneand remote.Nobookingsare madeoutofouroffice).

CanadianPublications Agreement #212490

Thursday’scirculationis 17,500 Thispaperismadeof40% recyclednewsprintandprinted using vegetableinks

OPINION

CelebratingthefestiveseasoninSouthDelta

Theholiday seasonorfestive season,asIlike to callit,always providesopportunities to connect withfamily,friendsandin my case, the past week– with our advertisersandcommunityleaders.

It’sagreat opportunity to reflecton the yearthat will soon pass and lookahead to what we allhope will be abright and prosperousnew year.

My weekof merriment beganon Dec. 9 withthe Tsawwassen BusinessImprovement Association’s Christmas social at Harry’s Fish and Chips, at Tsawwassen Commons. The evening wasfilled with good food and wonderfulconnectionsthat Ihope willcontinueinto 2025.I seelotsofgreat thingsaheadfor the businesscommunityin Tsawwassen, withTBIAleadingthe way.

Up next, wasthe Christmas party for theLadner BusinessAssociation, on Dec. 10.

Once again,food, warmthandfellowship wasonthemenu withthe roomfilled

A Delta farm wasthecreationofeditor’s tableatthe DeltaChamberofCommerce’s Holiday Lunchandtheirfun, “Anythingbut agingerbreadhouse,” competition.

with positivityforabright yearaheadforthe Ladner businesscommunity. The LBA, which has seena huge growth inmembershipthis year,hosts several belovedcommunity events that we allenjoy every year.

Remember to thinkof LBAand TBIA businesseswhen youdo your Christmasshopping.

On Dec. 12,I hadthepleasureof teamingup withmembers of the LBA, the Delta Farmlandand Wildlife Trustand Menin Kilts astable two earnedanhonourablemention in ourcreation of the “Anything butagingerbreadhouse,”competitionwhich was part ofthefestive Delta Chamber of Commerce HolidayLunch.

This wasoneofthe top eventsthat I have attendedthis year.

Theimaginationfromallofthetablesin theircreations, thefantasticfood at the Coast Tsawwassen Innandthe Christmas spirit madeforamemorable event.

I’mblessed to be a part ofthiscommunity –acommunityfilled withgreat people who are working hard to ensure itisagreatcommunityforall.

Fromallofus at the Delta Optimist, we wish our Deltacommunitya very Merry Christmas!

- Ian Jacques/Editor

Supportingsomeone throughgrief during the holidays

Tips for compassion and caring forthose goingthroughsome toughtimes

Supporting someone you care about can be challenging, especially knowing that theirgrief mayfeelmoreintense at Christmasorduring other significant milestones.

EntireContents

The Delta Optimist isamember oftheNationalNewsmedia Council,whichisanindependent organization established to deal withacceptablejournalistic practices andethicalbehaviour.If youhave concernsabouteditorial content,please contacttheeditor ateditor@delta-optimist.com or 604-998-3616.If youarenot satisfiedwiththe responseand wish to filea formal complaint visitthe websiteatmediacouncil. ca or call toll-free1-844-877-1163 for additionalinformation.

Griefisdeeply personal,and each person’s journeythrough itisunique. To help you support a personwhoisgrieving,here are somethoughtful suggestions shared by those who have experiencedthedeathofalovedone.

Themostimportantthingyou candois tosimply be therefor themandlisten, reallylisten. Givethem spaceifneeded, but continue checking in.Grieving takestime,andit cantake a whilefor someone to reconnect withthe worldandestablish a new senseof self withouttheir

lovedone by their side.

Evenif someoneis struggling to findmeaningintheirgrief, knowing there isanoffer to be includedinany gathering can bringcomfort. Ifa busy group isn’t going to work, askthem what type ofcompanionship they prefer- perhapsa walkoraoneon-onevisitis best.

Whileit’s helpful to talk about the good times, it’s just asimportant to create spaceforother emotions to surface. Helping themacknowledge their loss and remembertheirlovedoneis a crucial part ofthehealingprocess.

Encouragethecreationof newtraditionsoroffer to help preserve cherishedones. There isno“right” way to grieve, so remindthem to be gentle with

Community Comment

LAURA DIXON

themselves, laughiftheyfeel like it,andcryiftheyneed to. Don’tassumethat those who keep busy and avoidtalking

abouttheirlossareokay. Try to create an environmentwhere they canexpresstheirfeelings andacknowledge theimpactof theirgrief.

Asa volunteer boardmemberfor Heron Hospice Society of Delta,alongsideadedicated teamof staffand volunteers, we often saythat no one has to go through this journey alone

Supportive care societiesare availableacross severalcommunities,offeringin-personcounseling, group sessions,online resources,andonsitelibraries. Drawingonthe supportof friends,a network of caring individualsorprofessionalcounselors at any pointishealthyand positive. Singer-songwriter Bill Withers hadit right, “we allneed somebody to leanon.”

IAN JACQUES PHOTO

Lovethemusic,soplayon

Editor:

Asthe Christmas seasonwrapsusin warmth andtradition, I find myself reflectingonthe many blessings that this timeof yearbrings.

Amongthemost cherishedarethemomentsof beauty and joy I’ve found inthearts performances inandaround Delta these past few weeks.

Asamemberofthe Delta Choral Society, I was totallyimmersedin theenchantingpieces we created at ourconcerts. Thank you to Optimist photographer Jim Kinnear,for capturing andsharing a lovely online galleryof memorablephotos to

enjoy nowthat our performances have come to anend.

Ifeel so incredibly grateful to be part of a communitywherecreativityflourishes,especiallyduring thistimeof year. On theheels of our concerts, I’ve hadthe pleasure of attending two othershows:the Delta Music Makers andthe Delta Youth Theatre productionof OliverJr. Both experiencesbroughtlight andinspirationinto my heartandconnected me withthetruemeaning of community.

Ultimately, every single oneoftheseheartwarmingshows will serveas a lovely reminderofhow

theartsenrich ourlives.

It’s easy to get caught upinthe hustleand bustleofholiday preparations, butthis season hasgiven methe space to pause, takeabreath,and appreciate the magicof what is aroundus.Iam deeplythankfulforthe talentedartists, performers, andcreators who share theirgifts,and I feelblessed to be surrounded by such vibrant andinspiringenergy.

Maythisholiday season’sofferingsfill your heart with peace, joy,and a renewed senseof wonder, much like the beauty ofthe performances that lightup Delta.

Julie Lymburner

Dogissafe,thanks tostrangers

Editor:

On Nov. 29,Iarrivedhomeinthe afternoon with my sister’s dog, Betty, who hadnever been to my house. WhenIopenedthe cardoor, she bolted.

Thedog began to runupthe road towardsthe rush-hour tunneltraffic. Shefinally raninto thebramblesandI got outofthe car to try to retrieve her. Immediately, two cars pulledup besideme. Rose anda youngcouple were my saviours.

Foralmost45minutes,theydid

everythingtheycould to help,including runningthroughbrambles, stopping traffic,andofferingtheir total support andcommitment to capturing the dog.

Thesethree people went out oftheir way to help me andneveroncecomplained about getting back to their busy livesor suggestedgivingup.

Finally,oneofthem succeeded in enticing Betty over to himand was able to gether back onthe leash.

My husband, sister,andI thank you so much.

Susanand Jim Gillis

JIMKINNEAR PHOTO

The DeltaChoral Societyputon twoChristmas concerts earlier thismonth.

Be utifulSmiles Crted by the Artisansat EstheticsDenture Studo

Advantagesandbeneﬁtsofbeingan

Esthetics Denture Studiopatient:

• AlexHupkahas26yearsof experienceas aregistered dentaltechnicianand16yearsexperienceasa registereddenturist.

• AlexHupkahas26yearsofexperienceasaregistered dental technician and21yearsofexperienceas aregistereddenturist.

•A Combinedexperienceof42yearsinthedentalﬁeld producesresultsofestheticbeautywith unparalleled accuracyinallourproducts

•ACombinedexperienceof47yearsinthedentalfieldproduces resultsof estheticbeautywithunparalleledaccuracyinallourproducts.

•Naturalbeautyestheticsandfunction,immaculate attentiontodetail

•Naturalbeautyestheticsandfunction,immaculateattentiontodetail

CosmeticPrecisionDentureSystem

CosmeticPrecision Denture System™

PremiumqualityCosmeticPrecisionDenturesinstillconﬁdence andprovideoptimumfunctionwhileeating,speakingand laughing.Sophisticatedinstrumentation recordsfacialand anatomicalinformationtorecreateyournaturalsmileandthe youthfulfacialcontoursofyourlipsandcheeks.

PremiumqualityCosmeticPrecisionDenturesinstillconfidenceandprovideoptimum functionwhileeating,speaking,andlaughing.Sophisticatedinstrumentation records facialandanatomicalinformationto recreateyournaturalsmileandtheyouthfulfacial contoursofyourlipsandcheeks.Ourpremiumqualityteethduplicatenaturalteeth. Ourpremiumteethcontoursaredesignedtomatchyourskeletaltypewithfeminine andmasculinecharacteristicstoaccentuateyourappeal.

Ourpremiumqualityteethduplicatenaturalteeth.Thecontours ofourpremiumteetharedesignedtomatchyourskeletaltype withfeminineandmasculinecharacteristicstoaccentuate yourappeal.

•Weprovideintegratedtreatmentplanningwithyourdentistorsurgeon.

•Weprovideintegratedtreatmentplanningwith your dentistor surgeon

TheArtandAdvantagesofCosmetic PrecisionDentures:

TheArtandAdvantages of Cosmetic PrecisionDentures:

•Implantsupportedand retaineddenturetreatment planningandengineering

• Implant-supportedand retaineddenturetreatmentplanningand engineering.

•Highestqualitydentalmaterialsavailablewithnocompromise

•Highestquality dentalmaterialsavailablewithno compromise

•Wehaveaninhouselaboratoryforallyourneeds,to maintainproductandqualitycontrol

• We haveanin-houselaboratorytomaintainproductandqualitycontrolfor all yourneeds.

•5yearwarrantyagainstbreakageduringeating

•5-yearwarrantyagainstbreakageduringeating

•Freehomecarekit,includingprofessionaldenturecleanerwithnew cosmeticandpartialdenturesforthelifetimeofbeingourpatient.

• Freehomecare kit,includingprofessional denturecleanerwithnewcosmeticandpartial denturesforthelifetimeofbeingourpatient

Esthetics- createdwithnaturalnuances,soyoucanspeak, smileandlaughwithconﬁdence.

• Esthetics– createdwithnaturalnuancessoyoucanconfidentlyspeak,smile,and laugh.

• Contours– NaturallysculptedtissuesurfacesmakeCosmeticPrecisionDentures almostindistinguishablefromnaturaltissues.

Contours- Naturallysculptedtissuesurfaces,makeCosmetic PrecisionDenturesalmostindistinguishablefromnatural tissues.

• Health– Eatvirtuallyanyfoodefficientlytoimprovedigestion.StrengthandFit–extremelydensematerialsprovide astrong,secure,non-irritating, comfortable fit.

Health- eatvirtuallyanyfoodefﬁciently, improvedigestion. StrengthandFit- extremelydensematerialsprovide astrong, secure,nonirritatingcomfortableﬁt.

Biocompatibilty- denseequalized materialsaidinthe preventionof stainandodorbuildup.

• Biocompatibility– denseequalizedmaterialsaidinpreventingstainandodour buildup.

SchematicdesignfornewWinskillfacilitypresentedtocouncil

SANDOR GYARMATI sgyarmati@delta-optimist.com

Deltacouncilthis week received apresentationonthepreliminary schematicdesignforthe new Winskill Aquatic and Fitness Centre and proposed refinementsfor the outsideplayingfield enhancements.

Jim Bauer,directorof facilitiesand majorprojects, outlinedtheinterior layoutofthe gymnasium, multi-purpose spaceand, amongotheraccessible features,the poolsincludingthe10-lane,25-metre lap pool,viewingareas, waterslideandwherethe “wellnessarea” would be situated.

To have two publicelevators,the buildingalso includesa second-floor outdoor terraceintended forcommunity gatheringsandfieldviewing.

Asfarasthe park,the proposed locationsofthe U13andU15 baseball diamonds have been swapped.Other changes includethedesignof the parkinglot layout to be morediagonal to improve pedestrianflow.

Council waspreviously toldthat apreliminary parkinganalysis by the design teamestimated that approximately350to-400 parking stalls would be needed in Winskill Park,upfrom the current160 stalls, to accommodate boththe new Aquaticand Fitness Centre and sportsfields.

Theproposed design also suggestsaccessfrom boththenorth,which would be right-inonly, and southofthefacility.

Bauerexplainedthat the schematicdesignprinciplesinclude,among other things,a “positive, com-

plimentarypresencein Winskill Park and to 56th Street”’ as wellasa“warm, welcoming patronexperienceasthey approach, enter, exitandmove throughoutthe building.”

Strategies to achieve thoseprinciplesinclude “repeatableand simple,

NowServingSouthDelta

ratherthanuniqueor complex roofs, massing andfacades”and to “provide buildingaccessfrom bothnorthand south with afocusonenhancingthe plaza” and“locationsof programs to create visual interest at edgesofthe new building.”

The outsideplaza can be utilized asa gathering spaceforthe public as wellasan area for largercommunity events, explained Bauer.

Thenext stepsinclude another roundofcommunityengagement.

Thecity willalsofinal-

izeandissuea tenderfor the baseballdiamonds’ constructionin early 2025, have the reforestationplandeveloped and report back to council, whileamoredetailed designplan will be ready by spring 2025.

Baueralsoexplained that another roundof costingforthe building willalso be undertaken asthedesignprogresses. The goalis to commence constructionofthenew facility by late summer.

Aprevious report noted the replacement ofthe Winskill Aquatic and Fitness Centre is estimated to costin the rangeof$120-to-$130 million, with$120million dedicated to thefacility. The portionoffunding required for sportsfields realignmentsandan additionalfourth baseballfieldis$10million.

•$50

•$25

Staff reportedbackona conceptualdesignthatis guided by the resultsof communityengagement.

TheUnitedChurches of SouthDelta Invite

Youto Worship

LADNER UNITED CHURCH

Sunday,December22

10 am:Traditional WorshipService Advent #4 LOVE

ChristmasEve December24

10 am:Family WorshipService

7:30 pm:Traditional WorshipService with Communion

Worshipservicesare onlineand in person.Please contactLadner United Church officefor Zoom worshipinfo: office@ladnerunited.org 604-946-6254

TSAWWASSENUNITEDCHURCH

ChristmasEve December24

7pm: Carols with Candlelight

Sunday,December29

10 am:Worship with Rev.WendyBily

Epiphany Sunday,January5

10 am:Worship with Rev. MariePaul

Ourworship services areinperson andrecordedthenuploadedto YouTube. Please contactthe officefor anyinfo: tuc@telus.net or 604-943-2911

Decemberthemostdangerous monthfordriving,saysICBC

PHILMELNYCHUK pmelnychuk@delta-optimist.com

Haste makes wasteif you’rehittingthe road duringtheholidays.

So thefolks at Road Safety at Work are reminding motoristsin B.C. to takeit easy when they’redrivingdown the highway.

“Rushing to yourdestinationwhiledriving might seemlike a way to save timewhen you’ve got alot to do, butitgreatly increasesthe risk of a crash,” says Trace Acres, programdirectorfor Road Safety at Work inanews release.

Driving toofastforthe conditionsisoneofthe majorcontributors to wintercrashes, says the

releasewhich notesthe first weekof December is National SafeDriving Week.

“Slowing down and giving yourselfextratime isoneofthe best ways to helpensure you and your lovedonestravel safely thisholiday season,” Acres said.

Someofthe perilsof winterdrivingare road and weatherconditions that can change quickly. Short winter days means moredrivinginthe dark. And with busy work andholiday schedules, fatigue canincrease, slowingdriver reaction time, whileusingthephone distractsdriver attention.

“Theholidays cancreatealotof stress,which canaffect ourdriving

decisions,” says Acres. ICBC statsshowthat Decemberisthemost dangerousmonth of the yearforcrashes, said Road Safety at Work. And WorkSafeBC statistics showthat work-related crashesincrease by 26 percentduringthe winter months.

According to ICBC, in December2023in Delta, there were 635crashes,or 20collisions daily.

Road Safety at Work, managed by the Justice Institute of B.C. and funded by WorkSafeBC, offers thefollowing tips:·

• Don’tdrivewhen conditionsare poor. They may get worse.

• Know before you go by checking DriveBC.ca for roadconditionsand weatherupdates.

• Leavemore space between your vehicleand the vehicleinfront of you, so you have moretime to react to otherdrivers.

• Use wintertires, even if you’re in anarea with little snow They provide bettertractionincold temperaturesandon slippery roads.

• Leave yourphone alone.

• Be fully rested before longdrives. Fatigue can be as dangerousas impaired driving, especiallyon dark,icy roads.

• Take extra care in busy parking lots,especiallyafter dark. Follow yourorganization’s safe-drivingproceduresif youdriveonthe job.

Cityof Delta to have communitysatisfaction survey

SANDOR GYARMATI sgyarmati@delta-optimist.com

TheCityof Delta hasissued a requestforbidsforaconsultant to carry outacommunity satisfaction survey.

Council recently approved the hiringaqualified research firm to conducta survey andestablishan onlinecommunity panel to gather representative dataof publicopinion ona wide range ofissues,and to provideadetailed assessment of resi-

Breakfast Wrap

dent attitudes,needs, prioritiesand satisfaction levels.

Theprojectincludes, among otherthings, carrying outthe survey,analyzingthe results,thenproducinga report on thefindings and presentingthosefindings to council, as wellasusingthe survey to identify participantsforthe representativecommunity panelforongoing polling.

Thecity willprepareandimplementacommunication strategy for the survey,whichis to be conducted

in February2025.

A staff report notes such surveys area valuable toolforunderstanding and responding to theneedsofthe community.

The report also notesthat,through theprocess, thecity canexpect to hearamixof both positiveandconstructivefeedback from residents, addingitisoftentheconstructive feedback that drivesmeaningful change.

A budgetof$50,000forthe work has beenallocated.

BENEDICTIONLUTHERAN CHURCH

invitesyoutojoinusin acelebration ofcarolsandcandlelighton ChristmasEve at 4pm. ChristmasDaycommunionserviceat10am.

Everyoneiswelcome! Onlineservices arealsoavailable at www.benedictionlutheran.org

ChristmasEveService •December24that4pm Doorsopenforrefreshmentsat3pm cedarparkchurch.org•530044thave,DeltaBC

AllSaintsChurch,Ladner ChristmasServices Tuesday,24December 7pmChristmasEveService ChristmasDay 10amSpokenEucharist AllSaintsChurch 4755ArthurDrive,Ladner allsaintsladner.org

www.stdavidsdelta.com

ChristmasEve4pm Children’sBlessingoftheCrèche, Candlelight Communion&Carols ChristmasDay10am HolyCommunion(BCP) Allarewelcome

Deltapolicerampupgettingimpaireddriversoffroad

SANDOR GYARMATI sgyarmati@delta-optimist.com

Five Delta policeofficersarealready eligible forAlexa Team Awards.

In 2008,four-year-old Alexa Middelaer was tragically killed by an impaired driverin Delta whilesheandher aunt werefeedingahorse by the roadside.

That incident inspired thecreationofAlexa’s Team,aprovincialpro-

That’s according to Chief Constable Harj Sidhuinanupdate to the Delta police boardthis weekonhisdepartment’s enhanced Counterattack enforcementthroughout theholiday season.

gramthat recognizes officersacross B.C. for theirexceptionalefforts in removingimpaired drivers.

Officerswho remove 12impaired drivers annuallyareinducted into the team,andthose removingmore than 50impaired drivers areconsidered having

reached “All-Star.”

To date, Delta Police Departmentofficers already eligibleforAlexa Team Awardsinclude:

Const. Courtney Horne –55impaired investigations(AlexaAll-Star status)

Const. Bryce Connors –14impaired investigations

Const. Ryan Hooseman–24impaired investigations

Const. Bret Nishi–24 impaired investigations

Sidhu’s report to the boardnotesthedepartmentisonce again participatinginprovincewideinitiatives such as LightuptheProvince and Counterattack events,coordinated through Road Safety BC, inaddition to the routine impaired drivingenforcementconducted by Delta police.

Delta police will have twodedicated teams patrolling majorhighways in Delta.

In 2023, officersacross B.C. checkedmorethan 41,000 vehiclesduring theinitiative.

impaired driving enforcementthrough CounterAttackoperationsisprovided by the Policingand Security Branchthrough a dedicated agreement. That fundingenables Delta police to deploy extra teammembers,the report explains.

In the summerof2024, Delta’s CounterAttackoperations resulted in 3,011 vehicles being checked, with numerous penalties issued,includingfines, vehicleimpoundments, drivingprohibitions,as wellasCriminal Code charges.

Termsand Conditions: 40%off anyorder of$1000 or more or30%offany orderof$700-$1000 on any complete custom closet,garage,or home officeunit. Take anadditional15%offonany complete system order. Notvalid with anyotheroffer. Free installation with anycompleteunitorderof$850or more.Withincomingorder,attime of purchase

Termsand Conditions:40% off anyorder of$1000 ormoreor30% off anyorder of$700-$1000 onany completecustomcloset,garage,orhome office unit. Take anadditional15% off onanycomplete systemorder.Not validwithanyother offer.Free installation withanycompleteunitorderof$850or more.Withincomingorder,attimeofpurchaseonly.

Terms and Conditions:40%offanyorder ormoreor30%offanyorder of$700-$1000onany completecustomcloset,garage,orhomeofficeunit. Take anadditional15%offonanycomplete validwithanyotheroffer.Free installationwithanycompleteunitorderof$850or more.Withincomingorder,attime of purchaseonly.

Withapprovedcredit.Callorask your Designer Notavailableinallareas. Offer notvalidin allregions. Expires11/30/23.

Theefforts willinclude roadblocks, mandatory alcohol screening, standardized field sobriety testsanddrug recognitionexperts to identify impaired drivers.

Fundingforenhanced

So far, at 70 drivers, August sawthe most impaired vehicleoperators takenoffthe road. In addition to enforcementefforts, public awareness willplay a critical role, said Sidhu. Between Januaryand October2024, Delta police removed537 impaired driversoffthe road.

SPECIALFINANCING FOR12MONTHS!

SPECIALFINANCING FOR 6MONTHS!

Withapprovedcredit.Callorask your Designer fordetails. Notavailableinallareas.

New fees coming for city-owned cemeteries

SANDOR GYARMATI

sgyarmati@delta-optimist.com

It willcostmore to lay yourlovedones to rest at oneof Delta’s twocemeteries.

Thecity currently providescemetery services at the North Delta Cemetery,located at 8737BrookeRd.,and at the Boundary Bay Cemetery at 85656th St in Tsawwassen. Council last week approved amendments to thecity’scemetery bylaw,updateswhich includedtheincorporationof above-ground servicesand applicable pricing, specificallyniche walloptionsforcremated remains at bothcemeteries,as wellastheadditionofa scatter garden andmemorial wall at the

Boundary Bay Cemetery. Councilalsoendorsed a separate report on a newconsolidated fees and charges bylawwhich includeshigherfeesfor cemetery services.

The report notes cemeteryfees were last updatedin2018. In 2022,council approved anincrease forfeesand servicesoffered through the Parks, Recreationand

GreatPre-Owned Vehicles!

Culture Department. The bylawandassociated fees were in theprocess of beingupdated at that time, butthe bylawdid not go forward.

Thenewfee bylawnow hasa revised cemetery fee schedule to bringthe fees closer to themedian of several comparable communities, with some changes beingphased in overmorethanone year.

Delta sells burialand cremationlotsdirectly to individuals,notthrough commercialentities.

Meantime,a workshop will be scheduled early inthenext year to review adraft Cemetery Master Planandthe outcomeof the workshop willhelp shapethe recommendationsinafinal report andfuture bylawamendments.

Thefinalphaseofthat project willalsoinclude updatedfeedback from staffandcommunity consultation.

Aprevious report notesthat a landneeds analysis willhelpdetermineifexistingcemeteries canadequately serve thecommunityforthe next25 years, or whether additional land will be required.

Clubof Tsawwassen

“

Ican experiencenormal lifeagainandtheworld isn’t silentanymore. Iamsohappy.

GaryByers -CFBH Recipient onhowhearingaidshas madehis lifebetter.4

BCHydro adding moreEV fastchargingstationsin Delta

SANDOR GYARMATI sgyarmati@delta-optimist.com

BC Hydro hasopenedanewEV fast-charging hubin South Delta,the second hubit hasaddedinthecitythe past coupleofmonths.

Thenewest hubislocated at Delta’s Sport Development Centre at Clarence TaylorCrescent, havingfour, 180-kilowatt chargers and two, 100-kilowatt chargers.

In addition to beingfaster, the 180-kilowatt units alsoofferdual chargingor power sharing, which allows two customers to use the same charger.

In October, a hubopened at the Sungod Recreation Centre in North Delta, withfour,180-kilowatt dual port chargers.

“Thesenewelectric vehicle charge hubsin Deltacontinue our work with

BC Hydroand other partners to make cleaneroptionsmoreaccessibleand affordableforallBritish Columbians,” said AdrianDix, Ministerof Energy and Climate Solutions,inanews release.

BC Hydroalso notesthat someof theunitsarealso equipped with NACS (NorthAmerican Charging Standard) connectors to support charginga varietyofdifferentelectric vehiclemodels.

“Wearegratefulforthis partnership with BC Hydro to supportthegrowing numberof zero-emission vehiclesin ourcommunity,” said Mayor George Harvie.

“ByofferingEV chargers at ourfacilities, we are providingaconvenientand efficientoptionforelectric vehicle owners, further supportingtheadoptionof EV technology in ourarea.

“The availabilityofmore EV fast chargers in Deltaisacritical step towardsfulfilling ourcommitment to a greener,more sustainablefuture.”

BC Hydroalso currently ownsand operatesfourfast charge stations at South Delta Recreation Centre.

clinicfordetails.OffernotvalidinQuebec.Offer expires01/31/2024.Ifyouarequoted alowerpriceonanequivalenthearingaidwiththesame features,optionsandservices,HearingLifeCanada Ltd.willmatchthatprice.ConditionsApply. Askourhearingcareprofessionalsformoredetails. [1]Source:GaryByersis aCampaignrecipientwhobeneﬁtedfromtheCampaignforBetterHearingGiveBackprogram. Learn moreathttps:// campaignforbetterhearing.ca/blog/campaign-recipients

Deltapolicereleaseauditonbody-worncameras

SANDOR GYARMATI sgyarmati@delta-optimist.com

It’s been a successful new toolfor Delta police butthereare someareas that need improvement.

That’s according to a report on the body worn camera by Police Chief Harj Sidhu to the Delta police board last week, notingthat, asof Nov. 28,63officers are participatingintheprogram andthe Delta Police Department has36 bodyworn cameras.

In 2020,theDPD becamethefirst organizationin B.C. to operationalizea body-worn camera program, which hasfollowedaphased approach to equipping frontlineofficers.

Theprogram was implemented to promote publictrust, transpar-

ency,andconfidence whileproviding valuable evidenceand supporting operationaleffectiveness.

Communityfeedback hasshown strong support, withmorethan90 percentof respondents notonly supporting,but expectingDPDfrontline officers to wear body worn cameras,the report explains.

TheDPDconductsan annual audit,as required by BC Provincial Policing StandardsandDPD policy.

This year’s audit reviewed recordingsfrom Oct. 1, 2023, to Oct. 1,2024.

A totalof5,076 bodyworn camera recordings were madeduringthe audit period acrossall usergroups,including patrolshiftsandthetraffic section.

A statistically repre-

sentative sampleof357 recordings was selected using stratified random sampling.

The2024 auditdemonstrated a high overall compliance rate of 95 per cent, the report notes.

Keyfindingsfrom the auditincludethat a highcompliance(99 per cent)for recording, was a callorenforcement action-specificandnot indiscriminate, as wellas a cameraactivated where useofforce,violence, or aggressive behaviour could be anticipated (98 percent).

Areasforimprovement includesnotificationof recording (61 percent), whenofficersdidnot consistently informindividualsthey were being recorded. Theissue was limited to asmallgroup andisnot systemic,the report notes, adding targetedtraining will addressthe gap.

Anotherarea for improvementisdocumentationin records (90 percent). It has been identifiedasanarea for furthertrainingandprocess refinement.

“Whilenewerusers adjusting to theprogram contributed to isolated compliance gaps,these findingsprovide valuableopportunitiesfor targetedtrainingand processimprovements Theofficerin charge of BWCtrainingisaddressingtheseareas, with afocusonenhancing complianceinareas such asnotificationanddocumentation. Theseefforts willensuretheprogram continues to progress and meet publicexpectations effectively,”the report

Onewinnerwillbedrawnevery weekdayfromDecember9- December24. DeltaOptimist’s12DaysofGiveawayscontestrules: Nopurchaserequired.ContestbeginsonDecember9,2024at10a.m. PDTandendsonDecember24,2024at11:59p.m.PDT.Thereis atotalof[12]prizes availabletobe won.Skilltestingquestionrequired.Opento legalresidentsof BritishColumbia,Canada,whoareageofmajorityintheprovinceattimeofentry. Oddsofwinningdependon numberofeligibleentriesreceivedbefore contest closes.Limit 1entryperperson.Enteroncetoqualifyfor all availableprizesattimeofentry.

CHURCHDIRECTORY

Sacred Heart CatholicChurch

3900ArthurDrive, Ladner

604-946-4522 sacredheartparish.ca

“Aplacewhereloveandfriendshipmatters”

AllSaintsAnglican Church 4979-44A Avenue,Ladner 604-946-9179 •604-946-4224

JoinusSundayService @10am WednesdayService @10am followedbyBibleStudy Formoreinformation www.allsaintsladner.orgor call604-946-8413. 4755ArthurDrive,Delta

Sundays @9:30a.m.

ST.DAVID’S ANGLICANCHURCH

1115 –51AStreet Tsawwassen

Rector

Rev.SimbarasheBasvi

SundayService10am

Wed.Service11am

604-943-4737

st.davidsdelta51@gmail.com www.stdavidsdelta.com

Community

Jesusmade room forus

The well-known Christmas storiesinthe bible tellusthat we,as humanity,didnot make roomfor Jesuswhenhe came to this world. Between King Herod attempting to kill Jesus because he saw himas athreat(Matthew2:16), and Luke,the narrator, tellingusthat there was no roomfor Mary and Josephintheinn(Luke 2:7), we getthepicture ofaninhospitable world for Jesus’ incarnation. However, Jesusshows usthat he will make roomforusinhis kingdom by laying down his life to payfor our sins, andtherefore, redeem us to an everlastinglife withhimasa part ofhis family.

Sundaysat10:00a.m. Rev.Jason Truell 中文主日崇拜 10:00a.m.

Nancy 楊牧師

4594 –54AStreet, Ladner,B.C. 604-946-7033, office@ladnercrc.com www.ladnercrc.ca

Tsawwassen United Church 693 –53rdStreet,Tsawwassen

Rev.MariePaul Welcometoeveryonefor Worship &Friendship Sundays @10:00am tuc@telus.net604.943.2911

“Be Faithful,betrue, be ablessing”

Minister’s Minute

PAUL PARK

In fact,theologians point outthat there isan insider-outsidermotif inthe Gospelaccounts, where Jesus(whoisan insiderin God’s kingdom) chooses to identify withthe outcastsof

society to invitethem into his kingdom, which in turn causeshim to becomean outsiderin this world.

What an amazing Saviour we have! This great King exemplifies how we are to liveashis people—making room forthose whodon’t have aplace to belong.

This Christmas season,Iencourage you to follow Jesus’ example and make roomin your Christmasplans to invite those in yourlifethat may be blessed by your invitation. Insteadoffocusing entirelyon your own familyor yourself,look to the needsaround you and choose to be ablessing. Merry Christmas!

We invite you to join us foranevening of fellowship andcelebrationinpraiseofthe Lord. Tuesday, December 24,2024• 5:30pm -6:30pm Living Hope Ladner Church 4789 53 Street in Ladner (Delta

&SHADES

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Fromallofusat Expedia® CruiseShipCenters® inSouth Delta

We wish youand your familiesthe very bestofthe HolidaySeasonand aprosperousNewYear to come. Thankyou foryourcontinuedsupport!

ExpediaCruises 152-4857ElliottSt(LadnerHarbourCentre) 604-946-7444

DSS20DaysofGivingcampaign supports30localfamilies

Formorethan20 years, Delta Secondary School’s 20 Days of Giving campaign has beena cherished holiday tradition,uniting students, staff,andthe localcommunity to support familiesin need.

This year,the campaign successfully gathered $21,000indonations to create holiday hampers for30localfamilies, filled withfood, clothing, andgift cards. Throughoutthe campaign, students and staff worked together to collect essentialitems. Thelocalcommunityalso played a key roleinthis year’s success.

The DSS Interact Club, sponsored by the Rotary Club ofLadner,hosted a Food and DonationDrive at Ladner Save-On-Foodson Dec. 3, raisingmore than$1,500in just 2.5 hours.

In addition,localorganizations such asthe Delta Firefighters Charitable

Societyandthe DYSL-Delta Youth Support Link made generouscontributions.

Wallenius Wilhelmsen,aglobalshippingcompany,also madea significant donation,helping to ensurethat each hamper was well-stocked.

Severalcommunitymembers even adopted individualfamilies,providing extra support to make theirholidays evenbrighter.

“We’re incrediblygrateful for the outpouringof generosityfrom our students, staff,local businesses, andcommunity organizations,” said Colleen Blatz, campaignorganizer at DSS. “This campaign has beena part of our schoolfor over twodecades,andit’s heartwarming to seehowitcontinues to bring everyone together to supportthose in need.” - Submitted

Clubsharingpassionforcycling withlocalfamiliesatChristmas

Inthe spiritofgiving, South Delta’s Boundary Bay Cycling Clubmembers aresharingtheir passionfor cycling withlocalfamiliesthis Christmas.

Withthe generous supportof Giant Bicycles White Rock, Rite Tech Construction, Sue Gordon Personal RealEstate, Sharkey’s Seafood Bar & Grille,Open Space Yoga, Four Winds Brewing, L’ Aromasandits ownmembers, Boundary Bay Cycling was able to purchase acoupleof top-quality kids’bikesas wellascollectmorethan a$1,000 to donate to Deltassist in support ofits Christmasprograms.

Brent Fahland Mark Cawker, club representatives, saidit gave themgreat joyknowing a younggirl and boy will be able to sharein their passionfor cyclingandthat they cangive back to thecommunityinameaningful way.

Formore about Boundary Bay

Tsawwassen Animal Hospital

604-943-9385

FraserHealthAuthority

604-948-7010

Royal Canadian Legion

604-943-0232

Bright HorizonsDaycare 236-455-0627

TsawwassenMartialArts

604-782-6764

SylvanLearning

604-449-0183

TsawwassenCollision

604-943-6393

Los GitanosSchoolof SpanishDance

778-833-0447

SierraAutomotive

604-943-6850

KidsinParadise

604-948-5437

LivingFit

604-382-5075

YogaUnion

604-948-9642

Equi 4-943

LowCost pmentRental 60 -0408

L’AromasCoffeeRoaster

604-943-0409

S uthpointeAcademy

604-948-8862

Bob Taggart and David Fredricksen were busy packing food hamperson Dec. 16.

DonationsdownforDeltassist Christmasfoodhampers

PHILMELNYCHUK

pmelnychuk@delta-optimist.com

Volunteers were starting to sort throughthemountainsoffood at an eastLadner warehouse last week, doing the sameamountof work asinprevious years withalittleless.

Organizer DavidFredricksen said donationsoffood aredown this year so therecould be more variationinthe500 or so Deltassist food hampersthat are given out to familiesafew days before Christmas.

As well, large volumesofgroceriesthat used to go to thefood bank willinstead be used inthe Christmasfood hampers to make upanyshortfall.

“Every hamper will be a little different,”Fredricksen said. “Everybody will get good hampersthis year, butit’s just donationsare waydown.”

One reasonfor thedrop indonations isthelingering effectofthe COVID-19 pandemic.

During the COVID-19 cancellation of 2020and2021,collectionoffood at Delta schoolsalso stopped.

Whenfood hampers resumed, the numberof schools participatingdidn’t match pre-COVID-19 years.

“But ourdonationsfromthe schools this yearare way, waylowercompared to past years andcertainly waylowercompared to pre-pandemic years,”he said, addingthey’regratefulfor everything they get.

“Togive you anidea, pre-pandemic, 32 schools participated in theprogram. Andthis year,14are participating, ” said Fredricksen.

Allthe hampers will be delivered Dec. 21.

“I’mhopingtheamountoffood everybody getsiscomparable to past years,” saidFredricksen.

Putting togetherthe hampers requires theeffortsofeight service clubsand directdonationsfrom several businesses including Paridon Horticulturalwhich providesthe warehouseand Bill Bates whichprovidedthetruckanddriver.

Cascades Packagingdonated 1,100 hamper boxesand Chewters Chocolates gave 627 kilogramsof chocolates. St. Jean’s Cannerydonated 500tinsoffish, Delta farmers gave 6,000 poundsof potatoes, and BC Freshdonated carrotsand beets.

King’s Link Golf Course chipped in with3,600Kraftdinnersand Monte Cristo Bakery donated 600 loavesof bread.

Sewak’s No Frills Groceryhelped out withproviding cloth bagsand Delta’s elementary schoolscollected lotsof food itemswhile Delview Secondary gave food collected in their Thanksfor Giving program.

Fredricksen said Delview’s program providesthe largest single sourceoffood fortheprogram. Butheaddedthat he’s going to ask Delta secondaryand South Delta secondaryifthey canalso start a Thanks For Givingprogram.

As we reﬂect on another wonderful year, we are deeply for the incredible support of our

grateful forthe incrediblesupportofour community. Thank you forchoosingusand makingus apartofyour lives. Wewishyou ajoyfulholiday seasonﬁlledwith love,laughter,and cherished moments. Here’s to abright andprosperous NewYear!

WARM WISHES, THE TEAM AT COASTTSAWWASSEN INN

@tsawwasseninn

PHILMELNYCHUK

MERRY CHRISTMASANDHAPPYNEWYEAR

Deltassist’stoydepotmovetoNorthDelta,agoodmove

PHILMELNYCHUK

pmelnychuk@delta-optimist.com

Thedecision to relocate Deltassist’s toydepot fromthefarmfieldsof east Ladner to North Delta wasa welcome one, judging by response from volunteersand families.

The toydepotmoved fromEast Delta Hall to Deltassist’s North Delta officeon120th Street becauseit was easier for clientsand easierfor volunteers to pack inthe boxesof toys and to help outfamilies.

“The responsefrom thecommunity has been positive. Alotof themlike that itishere Alotofthemlikethat

it’s not toocrazyand busy and stressful,” said Ana Awmack Juan, with Deltassist.

“Even our volunteers, they foundit wasa positive responsefromthem They allliked it. They felt it wasina good area.”

Earlierthis week,the toydepot hadalready given out about685 bundlesof toys so she estimates aboutthe same numberof kids,850, will receive bundlesofgifts this year,as last.

Each child gota large, mediumandsmall toy, plusa book, a puzzle, a small board game, two stocking stuffers andan itemof clothing.

To qualifyfor Toy Depotgifts, parents had

to applyonlineand make an appointment, allowingamoreorganized approach.

Dec. 11 wasthe last dayforthe toydepot.

“We just want to thank thecommunityforthe supportandfor the donations,” said Awmack Juan.

She saidthe toydepot will return to the same locationnext year. Some toys still remainedafter the event so those will be stored untilnext year,she added.

The Lower Mainland Christmas Bureau also supplied toys.

She saidit wasnice to see thecommunityof Delta get togetherand supporttheirneighbours.

DELTASSIST PHOTO

Staff, volunteers attoy depot innew locationin Deltassist’s North Delta office. Deltassist collects foodand toys throughoutthe year forits programs.

MERRYCHRISTMASANDHAPPYNEWYEAR

Brightlightsandthebestofthe2024seasoninDelta

IAN JACQUES ijacques@delta-optimist.com

Every year,the Optimist seeks out some of the best Christmas lightdisplays

Belowisalistof submissionsfrom readers if youareplanning a Christmaslight tour.

Emmanuel Factor has been puttingupadisplay at 1044EnglishBluff Rd., in Tsawwassen,for21 years.

“I think I’m starting to getthe hang ofit, but the rainand snow always wreak havoc,”he said.

Histhemethis yearis ChristmasAroundthe World withthedisplay featuringa seven-metre Bumbleandthe gang from Rudolfthe Red Nose Reindeer(inhonourof its60thanniversary), a tropicaltheme withpink flamingos, palmtreesand summer snowman, Santa and surfer snowman,and nativity scene.

“Thereshould be somethingfor every taste,” he said. “Just my wayof saying Merry Christmas to everyone.”

Hisdisplay will be up until Jan.5.

Evan Pighin at 4923 44B Ave.,inLadner, said it tookhim aboutthree weeks to putupthelights.

“I’veaddedaneightfoot-twinkling candy cane,amini-Christmas tree farmand some rain dropiciclelights,” he said.

“Throughoutthedisplay thereare over25,000 lights.I wouldlike to wish everyonea Merry

Christmasand Happy Holidays!”

Twin sisters Shea and Regan Elmer have added morelightsanddecorations to theirdisplay this year at 4601Savory St., inLadner.

“We started with our dadwhen we were little We madeatraditionthat we gotonenewinflatable every year,” said Regan.

“We keptthistradition goinguntilhe passed away from cancerin2021. Sincethen, my sisterand I have continued to honourhislove forholiday decorations,hoping each year will be betterthan the last.”

Paul and Sabrina Donohoe at 320 Rosehill Wynd, in Tsawwassen, haveonce againcomeup witha wonderfulandelaborate Christmasdisplay.

“Thedecoratingtraditioncontinues.Always we’veadded just a littlemore againthis year. Enjoyand Merry Christmas,” said Paul.

OwenPighin’s display at 476 Milsom Wynd, in Tsawwassen,isalways a crowd pleaser.

He saidhe started puttingup Christmaslights inthe90sin Vancouver.

“We starteddoing lightsfor ourfive children. Now, my excuse is we aredoingitfor our eightgrand children. We moved to Tsawwassen in2007and just keptit going. We love thecommunityandhopethe lights can be enjoyed over the Christmas season. The mainthemeislights, lotsofthem!

He saidittakesaround 14full daysto setup.

Candy CaneLane at

Emmanuel Factor has putupadisplay at 1044EnglishBluff Rd. for21 years.

55a Street, inLadner,is alwaysa must-see during the Christmasholidays.

On Monday, Dec. 9,the area residentsenjoyed a visitfromtheTranslink Rudolph Busanda visit with Santaand Ms. Claus.

The Honey family hasanother wonderful display at theirhome at 5026 Sixth Ave., in Tsawwassen.

Scott Honey says they have a “party inthe yard” theme

Jake and Tiffany Randazzo at 486058th St.,inLadner, saytheir lightdisplay istheir

favourite part ofthe Christmas season.

Paul Donohoehasa colourfuldisplay, top, while yard,just above,ison CamaroDrive.

said Camaro Drive is a must see.

“We love driving aroundandlooking at the lights. It’s beenatradition of Tiffany’s sinceshe was little,” said Jake.

“Wenow carryonthe tradition with our childrenand sinceitbrings so much joy seeinghow happyit makesthem; we alwaystry to bringalittle bitofthat magic to our ownhome!

On Camaro Drive, in Tsawwassen, about90 percentofthehouses have lights, according to Kathleen Carswell,who

Steve and Michelle Shardlow wish everyone a Merry Christmas with theirdisplay at 5464 MapleCres., in Ladner.

Thedisplay is a labouroflove that takes multiple days to setup which starts rightafter Remembrance Day.

“Every year we add to thedisplay withacouple of guidelines;noblow-up displays, ideallythelights are- red,green,white, andfavouritism towards snowmen. We enjoy the lightsandhope people

passingthehouseenjoy it as well,” said Steve.

Other notable displays

The Delta Hospital groundsareonce again beautifullydecorated thanks to the volunteer effortsofthe Rotary Club ofLadner.

In Tsawwassen, check outthe Tsawwassen Rotary Clubdisplay at Diefenbaker Park,drive throughthe Southlands andenjoy the Festivalof Lightsonuntil Jan.5at Tsawwassen Springs.

Seemorephotos at: delta-optimist.com

PHOTOS SUBMITTED

PHOTO SUBMITTED

LisaManwaring, MortgageExpert

AssistingMortgageClientsfrom myofficerighthereinDeltaB.C.

Myclientsknowthat Iamalwaysheretoassist. Ifyou’relookingfor amortgage, asecond opinionorjustneedtoask acoupleofquestions, giveme acall. Iwould LOVE tohearfromyou!

#2135956thStreet,DeltaBC,V4L2P3

604-805-1833 |lisa@southwestmortgage.ca

Maythe Peace& theBeautyof this FestiveSeasonaccompany you throughout allof2025

QuelaPaixetla Beauté de la Saison desFêtes vous accompagnent toutaulongdel’année quivient!

JIM KINNEARPHOTO

The Delta Choral Society presented twoHappy Holidays concerts in late Novemberat South Delta Baptist Churchin Tsawwassen.

Hoping everyone fromTsawwassento Ladnerand allofthe surrounding communitiesin Delta aseasonfullofJoy.

Sinceweopenedour doorsin1977, we havevalued therelationships we sharewithour communities.

Supportinglocalat ThriftyFoodsspans beyond thethousands of products locally grown andproducedinour stores. Local is aboutpeople. Localisabout supportingour partners andneighbours in communities across BC.

We strive to be Canada’s betterfood destinationbyhelping CanadiansEat Better, FeelBetter, andDoBetter.

We wishtothankallourcustomersfortheircontinuedpatronageoverthepast57years.Ithasbeenour pleasuretoserveyouandwelookforwardtoassistingyouinallofyourfuturefloorcoveringneeds.

Trevor,Stephanie,Yvonne,Shane,Michael,Herman,Ron, Helmut,Nick, Josh,Muhsin,Adem

www.deltacarpets.bc.ca

The DeltaMusicMakersConcert BandhostedseveralChristmas concerts in December.Picturedistheir concertat KinVillagein Tsawwassen.

JIMKINNEAR PHOTO

•WeworkonAlltypesofroofingmaterialssuchassynthetic,wood,green, metal,asphalt,torch-onmembraneandconcrete &slatetiles

• Fullyinsuredandcertified

•Offers24hremergencyservice

•Up to 50years manufacturerguaranteeonproductsandinstallation

•On-sitecleanup &DisposalService

The LightsandChristmas displays at Diefenbaker Park, put together by membersofthe Tsawwassen RotaryClub,isa mustsee for your family and friends thisholidayseason.

JIMKINNEAR PHOTO

MERRY CHRISTMAS ANDHAPPYNEWYEAR

AugustineHouseinLadnerhosteditsinauguralJingle BellBrunchonSunday, Dec. 8. Santapaidavisittothe residentsandtheir familieswho enjoyed a wonderfulmealandachance to connect overtheholidayseason.

Delivering Holiday Cheer, NearandFar

Fromour terminals to yourdoorstep— withthesupportofoursupplychain partners—warmest wishesfor asafe and wonderfulholidayseason!

JIMKINNEAR PHOTO

MERRY CHRISTMAS ANDHAPPYNEWYEAR

JIMKINNEAR PHOTO

(lefttoright):

SERVICINGTHE STRAIT

SAFE, RELIABLE,EFFICIENT COMMERCIAL FERRY SERVICE.

DAILYSERVICE BETWEENVANCOUVER ISLAND ANDTHE MAINLAND

•REGULATED COMMODITIES

•OVER-DIMENSIONFREIGHT •REEFERS www.seaspanferries.com• 1-800-341-7245

FROMTHE

Thank youtoallour readers,advertisers,andcarriers forsupportingthe DeltaOptimistthispastyear.Your commitment to local businessesand community makesallthedifference. As we celebrate thisholidayseason, we wish you happiness,health,andthe warmthof familyandfriends.And,of course,wehope youenjoy readingyourlocalnewspaper, whichthrivesthanks to yoursupport. Here’s to a brighterfuturetogether,supportinglocal every stepofthe way!

JIMKINNEAR PHOTO

MERRYCHRISTMASANDHAPPYNEWYEAR

JIMKINNEAR PHOTOS

Familiesenjoyedavisitwith Santa andfunon the iceattheannual Skatewith Santahosted by theCityof Deltaatthe South Delta RecCentreon Saturday, Dec. 14.

TheNight Before Christmas

Twas thenight beforeChristmas andallthrough thestore

Thepriceswerelowered likeneverbefore.

Thesew foam waswaiting forjust therighthome

While vinyls and leather were matchedfor theirtone.

Tackhammersand pliers were stackedonthe shelf

With hopesthat some trimmer wouldbuy forhimself.

Therollgoodswerelined up likelittletin men

As Iwalkedbysoslowly

Iturneddownthe bend. Iturnedveryslowly craning by head

Isaw what Iwanted Avinyl in red!

Iknewitwas Christmas tops weren’tinstyle

Butspringtimewould be here in just ashort while.

Iamalwaysimpressed

with Nelson’sservice and price

AndI thought of hiscrew whoare always sonice.

Ithink that I’ll callthem that oldNelsoncrew

Andplace onelast order

Yes, that’s what I’ll do.

As Ihungup thephone

Iheard such achatter

Iwentstraight outside to seewhat wasthe matter.

Andwhat to my wonderingeyes shouldappear

ButRob Nelsonhimself and eight tiny reindeer!

“What service!”I exclaimed as he droppedoffmyorder He had onemorestopand asked

“Which waytothe border?”

Then he sprang to hissleigh to histeamgavea whistle

Andawaytheyall flew likea down of thistle. Iheard himexclaim as he droveout of sight

“Merry ChristmastoAll, andtoall aGood Night!”

WishingYou AMerry Christmas& AProsperousNew Year. “Let usnever forget WHO we celebrate CHRISTmasfor.” 464062nd Street,Ladner,B.C. 604-940-2223

CLEAR-OUTSALE!!! Up to 98% off

100’stochoosefrom.

AllInstock Fabric $1/peryard& up

AllInstock Vinyl$1/peryard& up

AllRolls/Piecesare Labelled from $1/yard or roll &up

Pieces/Rolls sold as is,any smallerquantity

$15/yard cuttingfee

Leather$1/sq.ft.& up

TAXESAPPLYTOALL PURCHASES

No returns, exchanges,warranties

Foraholiday

MERRYCHRISTMASANDHAPPYNEWYEAR

FreeChristmasdinnerorganizerscoulduseabitofhelp

PHILMELNYCHUK

pmelnychuk@delta-optimist.com

ALadner Christmastraditioniscontinuingforits seventh year,offering thosewhoarealone some goodwilland hearty Christmasfare.

JeffBrownandhis mum Shirley beganofferingafree,community Christmasdinner,cookinguptraditional turkey and hamand servingit up to strangers at alocal church.

“We’dlove peoplewhoarealoneor new to thecommunity to reach outand letusknowand we’lladdthem to the list,” said Jeff.

Thefamilyoriginally startedthedinnerasa way to give back to thecommunityafter beingin businessinLadner and Tsawwassenformorethan40 years.

The dayisgreatforthose withfamily overseasor outof town,theelderly or peoplewho’ve just arrivedin South

Delta. “They have so much fun,” Jeff said. Local singer Alex Whittaker will be back againthis yearproviding songsof the Christmas season.

Every year, about100 peopleshow up, Jeff said, so that requires cooking eight turkeysand two hamsandallthe Christmasdinnerfixings. TheAll Saints

Anglican Church Hall,4755ArthurDr., makesit easier by allowing them to use itsbigcommercial kitchen.

“We really appreciate themallowing us to use thefacility,”he said.“Without abig kitchenit’s difficult to cookameal that size.”

Organizersarelookingforafew turkeys this yearforthedinner. So far, they only have donationsof vegetablesfrom localfarmers, so food contributions would be welcome.

“It’sa wonderfulthingwhenthecommunity pulls togetherand everybody gets to getinthereandshareandhelp. Everybodyfeelsconnected. It’s wonderful,” said Jeff.

Thedoorsopen at 3:30 p.m. anddinneris served at 5 p.m. on Christmas Day. Volunteerswho want to help setup thenight before, serve andhelp outon Christmas Dayorofferupfood donations can call604-728-7070.

JEFFBROWN PHOTO

Volunteers help outatthe community Christmasdinnerin2023.

tisersaMerry

ADVICE FR OM TH EPROFESSIONALS

Iknow Ihavesomehearingloss, butit’snot thatbadand Ican getbywithout toomuch trouble. What shouldI do?

Thelongeryouwaittogethearingaids,theharderitisto eventuallyadjusttothem.Thisispartially becausewhenyour brainstops regularlyhearingcertainsounds,neuralpathways arebrokenandthosesoundsbecomeverydifficultto regain ifandwhenyoustartwearinghearingaids.

Peoplewhohaveuntreatedhearinglosswillalso subconsciouslychangetheirsocialpatterns.Forexample, youmaystopgoingoutfordinnersorothergroupfunctions becausetheyseemgenerallytiringoroverwhelming -without realizingtheexhaustioncomesfromalltheextraworkyour bodyhastodotoprocesssoundsandfollowconversation.

Ifyouworkwith atrustedhearinghealthprofessional whosaysyouwouldbenefitfromhearingaids, avoidthetemptationtoputitoff!

Mark Nickel BC-HIP, B.Sc

604-943-0033

568212Avenue, Tsawwassen www.TsawwassenHearing.com

DigitalAnestheticis atechnologythatcontrolsflowrateand pressureoftheanesthesiaduringtheinjection.Thismethod is significantlymorecomfortablethanthetraditionaldental syringeandemploys atechniquethatmakestheinjection virtuallypainless.Thistypeoffreezingshortenstreatment timeforeverypatientandbestofall,painmanagement forthepatientisphenomenal.Somepeopledon’t even realizethatfreezingistakingplace.It’snicetoseechildren, whohaveneverhaddentalanesthesia,leavetheirvisit neverhavingtoexperiencethe“anxiety”associatedwith “Syringe-Type”deliverymethods.Manypatientswhowork wouldneverschedule aprocedureinthemiddleoftheday becauseofprofoundandlastinganesthesia.WithDigital Anestheticsystem,patientsarenowwillingtocomein atanytime,knowingtheywill beabletocommunicate effectivelyattheirjob.Thismethodoffreezing greatlydecreasesanxietyassociatedwithdental treatmentandmakeslifeeasierforboththedental teamandthepatient.

Ihaveheardthatenquiriestoyourcredit bureaucanloweryourscore,isthattrue?

Yes,thenumerousinquiriestoyourcredit bureau reportcanaffectyourcreditscore. Thiscanhappenwhensomeoneiscar, creditcardormortgageshoppingaseach credit request/enquiryto alenderwill create anewenquirytoyourcredit.When severalenquiriesaremadethecredit scorecandrop.Oneoftheadvantagesof using amortgagebrokeristhatweobtain asinglecredit report.This reportcanbe senttonumerouslenderswithlittleto noimpactonyourcreditscore.

Howcan IgivebacktotheDeltaHospitalCampusofCare thisholidayseasonandmaximizemy2024taxcredit?

Astheseasonofgivingapproaches,considertheprofoundimpactof donatingtoyourlocalhospital.BycontributingtoDeltaHospitaland CommunityHealthFoundation,youarenotonlysupportingthehealth andwell-beingoftheDeltacommunitybutalsodirectlybenefitingyour family,friends,andneighbours.

Withtheyeardrawingto aclose, acharitabledonationcanalsohelp youmaximizeyouryear-endtaxcredit.DuetodisruptionswithCanada Postdeliveriesandtoensureyourgiftisprocessedintimefor a2024 taxreceipt,pleasedropoffdonationsatourFoundationofficeinside DeltaHospital’smainentranceordonateonlinethroughoursecure website:dhchfoundation.ca/holidaywishlist.

YourgenerouscontributionsenabletheFoundationtocontinuefunding andpromotingexceptionalhealthcareattheDeltaHospitalCampusof Care,includingIreneThomasHospice,MountainViewManor,andour ‘ComingHome’campaignforthefutureBeedieLong TermCareCentre.

Formore informationonhowyoucanmake adifference, pleasecontactShariBarrat604.940.9695or shari.barr@dhchfoundation.ca,orvisitourwebsite: www.dhchfoundation.ca.

Dr.RajDhiman 604-946-9588

can maximize theirhome’svalue by makingstrategicupgradesandensuring

Simple improvementslikefreshpaint,updated fixtures,and landscapingcan makea significant difference.Staging thehome to highlight itsbest featuresand working with anexperiencedrealtortomarket the property effectivelyare alsokeystrategies forachieving thebest possiblesaleprice. These questionsand answersprovide valuableinsightsforreadersinterested in thereal estatemarket in Ladner,BC, whethertheyare buying, selling,or simplylookingtostayinformed.

www.lisamanwaring.com

lisa@southwestmortgage.ca 604-805-1833

Dear Dr.Mcphie,aremygutandmoodconnectedand can Ihelpmymoodwithdiet?

Didyouknowyourgutisoftencalledyour“secondbrain”?This isbecauseitcontainsmillionsofnervecellsandproducesabout 90%ofyourbody’sserotonin,the“feel-good”neurotransmitterthat regulatesmood,sleep,andevenappetite.

Whenyourgutisimbalanced—duetopoordiet,stress,or alackof beneficialgutbacteria—itcanleadtoinflammationanddisruptionsin serotoninproduction,whichmaycontributetoanxiety,depression,or brainfog.So:

1.Eatfor YourMicrobiome

2.MinimizeProcessedFoods

3.Managestress.

4.SupplementWiselyegprobiotics

5.Stayactive

Bynurturingyourgut,you’renurturingyourmind,too. Yourmood reallydoesstartinthegut! Comeseeme.I’dlovetohelp. Hugsandhappyholidays, DrMcPhiexo

LisaManwaring

ADVICE FROM THEPROFESSIONALS

When is thebest time to book my next vacation?

NOW istheperfecttimeto book yournextvacationtofabulous destinationssuchastheCaribbean,Alaska,andEurope!Ourteam of travelexpertsareheretohelpyoufind:

•Thehottestsalespromotions,andcruiselinedeals.

• Expedia® ExtrasandExpedia® ExclusiveStaterooms.

•Themost popularcruiselines,ships,anditineraries.

•Anamazingcustomvacationthatdeliversonallofyour individualneedsanddesires,rightdowntoeverylastdetail.

Lookingforthatspecialgifttoputunderthetreethisholiday season.Givethegiftoftravel!ContactustodayatExpedia CruisesSouthDelta,wedon’tjustselltravel,weare“Navigatorsof Spectacular VacationExperiences”Wheredreamsare fulfilled,andlifelongmemoriesaremade!

FromAllofusatExpediaCruiseswewishyouandyour familiestheverybestoftheholidayseason.

Community

Closefinishatthe KinVillageQuizNight

totheRestofUs!

Fromthe staffat Esthetics DentureStudio, AlexHupka Denturist.

Alex HupkaDenturist #240 -3671

WestminsterHwy. at TerraNovaShoppingCentre 604-279-9151

Ihave abunchofsilverwareI amhopingtosellyou. Howcan Itelliftheyarerealsilverorjustplated?

Yes,wedobuysterlingsilverwarebutnotplated. AlmostallNorthAmerican realsilverwareisstamped“Sterling”. Thismeansthattheyaremadefrom92.5%silver. Silverplateisusuallycopperplatedwithsilver. YoucaneliminatethefollowingAmericanbrands,Oneida, CommunityandRogers,allthesethreecompaniesonlymade silverplate.

Alsotoeliminatearepiecesmarked“EPNS”.Thatstandsfor ElectroplatedNickelSilver,thesearenotsilver. Englishsilverismarkeddifferently.Theyuse“Hallmarks”that arestampedintothepieces.

We lookfor a“Lion”markstampedintothepiece.Usually,the Lionisfacingleftbutsometimesitisstandingupright. ManyEuropeancountriesuse800or835markingswhichmean theyare80%or83.5%silver. Ifthereisonlytwonumberssuchas80or90thatmeansthey areplated.

Anaveragesterlingsetofsilverwareisworth between$1,000to$1,500forustopurchase.

WesternCoin &Stamp 6960No. 3Road,Richmond,BCV6Y2C5 www.westerncoinsandstamps.net westerncns@telus.net 604-278-3235

There wasan excitingfinishatthelatest KinVillageQuizNightwithfive teams comingclosetowinning, however, the tophonour wenttotheteamofUp toKnowGood,of DenisBridger, SandraMacFarlane, Sylvia DenzandCliff Capraniwithan excellentscoreof 78 points. The categories rangedfrom places, to thearts,and nationalities. ThenextQuizNightis Feb. 22.

StillpaintingDNSposters atage94

Delta Naturalists Society haslong beenblessed withadedicated stream of volunteers, butamong thefirmamentofhelpfulfolkthat have supported the club over the years, there stand a fewbright stars.

Geoffrey (Geof) Hackerisoneof those people.

Bornin London, Hacker studied architecture in England beforemoving to Canada,wherehe worked asan architectin Winnipeg, Vancouver,and Tsawwassen,designingair terminals, schools, collegesandarenafacilities.

In 1995, he retired and, withtime topaint, he becameamemberofthe South DeltaArtists Guild. As president ofthe Guildfrom 1999 to 2002 —and a board memberfor several yearsafter —he wasinstrumentalinacquiring the Longhouse (now Gallery1710)asthe Guild’s home base.

Since October2007,he hasdiligently painted beautiful postersforDNS’s monthly meetings, each oneillustrating thethemeofthat month’spresentation.

While17 years representsa feat of commitment, whatmakes thisactof service to the clubquite remarkableis that heisnow94 yearsold.

More recently,he has lightened his workload by producingartworkfor four ofthe10 meetings per year—instead of everyone— buthisartistictalent and senseof humourareasvigorous

DeltaNaturalists Society’sposterartistGeofHacker.

as ever. His posters can be seen onthe DNS website at www.deltanaturalists. org/nature-resources/nature-presentations/posters/.

Theoriginalartworkformostofhis postersis stored at DeltaArchives.

TheDNSisnottheonly beneficiary ofhistalent. The cheerful muralonthe north wallof Gallery1710is by our very own “artistin residence.”

Hacker still spendsalittletime painting every week; with other South DeltaArtist Guildmembers at Gallery 1710andafewother residents at the Waterford.

- Submitted

JIMKNEESCH PHOTO

Jim Richardson, owner

Drover

ACROSS

1. Scoundrel

4. Cameouton top

8. Rooster, e.g.

12.Work by Shelley

13. Scorch

14. Yokedbeasts

15.Wordofagreement

16.Pulledapart

17.Crack abook

18. Dangers

20.Totals

21. Shudder

23. Eyeailment

25.Desertsprings

26.Steepedbeverage

27.Uneven

30.Bringlegalaction

31.Masts

33.Struggle(for)

34.Antique

35.Misspeak

36.Subject

38. Take advantageof

39.Carrier

40.Cover

43.Safes

45.Snakyfishes

46.Yardunit

47.Slick

50.Foundation

51.Rustichotels

52.Animalpark

53.Glimpse

54. Fewer

55.Age

DOWN

1. Affectedlyshy

2. Grapedrink 3.Hated

4.Jolieetal.

5. Singinggroup

6. Nobleman

7. Chest ofdrawers

8. Wiggly fish

9. Chopped

10.Foremost

11. Footballlinemen

19.Adam’s mate

21. Average:hyph.

22.Lug

24.Tacky

26.Surfacingmaterial

27.Extralarge

28. Tencents

29.Elk

32.Winout

37.Beret,e.g.

38. Aggravated

39.Scorches

40.Entanglements

41.Gather

42.And

44. Skinproblem

48.Pigeon’s cry 49.Mateofhither

Crossword puzzleanswers use American spelling

HOROSCOPE WEEKOFDEC19,2024 -DEC25,2024

ARIES March21-April19

In romanticmatters,youmay receive amarriageproposal, eitherfromsomeoneyou don’tknoworduring atrip withyourpartner.Thisweek holdssurprisesthatwillbe goodforyou.

TAURUS April20-May20

You’llhave alottodoatwork tofinalizefilesbeforethe holidays.However,everything willgoaccordingtoplan. You’llfinishofftheyearwitha senseofaccomplishmentand leavewithpeaceofmind.

GEMINI May21-June20

You’llputthefinishing touchesonyourholiday decorationsafterfinding outlastminutethatyou’ll behostinganimportant gathering. Yourdesireto outdoyourselfwillpushyou todoeverythinginyour powertostandout.

CANCER June21-July22

You’llfindtimetomanagethe household,takecareofthe childrenandserveashost fortheget-togethers. You’ll beinvolvedin acommunity activitythatwillmakeyoufeel anextraburstofgratitude.

LEO July23-Aug. 22

Youwon’tminceyourwords thisweek! You’llopenly expresswhatothersare thinking. Youmayalsoneed todispelsomenastygossipto preventitfromcomplicating your relationships.

VIRGO Aug.23-Sept.22

You’llneedtomakemore purchases,whichwillcause youtospendbeyondyour budget.However,thepresents willbegreatlyappreciated, earningyouwarmthanks.

LIBRA Sept.23-Oct. 22

You’llneedtomakelastminutearrangementsat workorathome.Atthe office, you’llbethe first to arriveandthelasttoleave. Forthis,you’llearnthe trustofmanagementforan upcomingpromotion.

SCORPIO Oct. 23-Nov.21

Becarefulnottowear yourselfoutbeforethestart oftheholidayseason. You’ll havetotaketimeto restto getover acoldthat’scausing fatigue.There’snothinglike aninspiring readat atime likethis.

SAGITTARIUS Nov. 22-Dec.21

Stressatworkmaymake youfeellikeyou’rein turmoil.Fortunately,you’ll regainyourself-confidence justintimeforChristmas. Youwon’tleaveyour goodfriendsaloneforthe holidays.

CAPRICORN Dec. 22-Jan.19

You’llexcelatworkandin preparingfortheholidays. You’llcompleteallyour tasksontime.Thiswillgive youpeaceofmindduring yourtimeoff.

AQUARIUS Jan.20-Feb.18

Yourfriendsmayinviteyou totravelwiththem. You’ll accepttheofferwithout hesitation.Ifnot,youmay takepartinamulticultural celebrationwithyourloved onesduringtheholidays.

PISCES Feb. 19-March20

Youmayfeel amixof emotionsastheholidays approach.Thisyear’s celebrationswillbedifferent, evoking asenseofnostalgia thatmaybringoutyour sensitiveside.

HOWTOPLAY: Fillinthe gridsothat everyrow,every columnand every3 x3box contains thenumbers 1through 9onlyonce. Each 3x3box isoutlinedwitha darkerline. Youalreadyhavea fewnumbers to get youstarted. Remember:youmustnot repeatthe numbers 1through 9inthesameline, columnor 3x3 box.

SUDOKU

DELTA SPORTS DeltaBlueJaystakingtheirnextbaseballstep

PHOTO SUBMITTED Tsawwassen’s FinleyMcConnellhas committedto theUniversityofBritishColumbia.

IAN JACQUES ijacques@delta-optimist.com

A pairof Delta Blue Jays istaking thenext stepin their baseball journey.

Recently, Tsawwassen’s Finley McConnellannounced that he hascommitted to the University ofBritish Columbia, while North Delta’s Jake Fehr will begoing to Texas to play with Vernon College.

“I’mexcited to announce that I will be continuing my baseballandacademic career at the University ofBritish Columbia,” said McConnellonhisX(formerly Twitter) page.

“I wouldlike to thank my family, my coaches,and my teammates forhelping make this happen. Go Birds!”

McConnellisapitcherandplays shortstop. He has been withthe Blue Jays program since Grade 8.

“I’mexcited to announcethat I’ll be headingdown to Texas to play with Vernon College next year,” said FehronhisX page “Thank you to my family, my coaches, my teammatesandalloftheother peoplewho havesupportedme andhelped meachieve my goalsof getting to the nextlevel.”

Blue Jays headcoach CamFrick saidheisthrilledfor bothplayers.

“Great kid,greatfamily grewupplayingall his baseball in Tsawwassen,” saidFrickof McConnell.

“Great leaderforus He had a tough yearinhisGrade8 year,as that was our COVID year, butin Grade9, really steppedup He was the captainof our team,and we wonprovincials. He stillcomes back outandhelpscoach the younger kids.

“UBC is agreat schooland a great baseballprogram, whichis

Sports stories? ContactIanat ijacques@delta-optimist.com or call 604-998-3616

awesome.” Fehr isalsoapitcher andisin his Grade 12 year with the Jays. He also joinedtheprogram whenhe wasinGrade8.

“Great pitcher. He threwthe nationalfinalin2022, was part ofthe teamin2021asaGrade 8 when Finley wasinGrade9,” said Frick.

“His dadcoaches withus, so a great baseballfamily. These two guys just love baseball. First guys there, last guys to leave. They both just live andbreathe baseball, so just happy for bothofthem.

“Our seniorheadcoach Jack Thompsonis very involved in helping ourplayersfind schools intheirGrade12 year. Some kids want to try and stay homeor exploreotheroptions.

“Theprogram has madea good nameforitself,and peopleknow the Jays guys andwhat they can bring.”

SDSSseniorgirlsgo 1-1at Tsumura Basketball Invitational

IAN JACQUES

ijacques@delta-optimist.com

The South Delta Sun Devils seniorgirls basketball teamisoff to a good startintheirnewhigh school season.

South Delta went 1-1 at the2024 Tsumura Basketball Invitational Select16bracket.

Sixty-four teams– splitinto a pairof 16-team brackets–tipped offon Wednesday.

In theirfirst game,the Sun Devils were 84-58 winners overthe Centennial Centaurs,from Coquitlam, which setupaquarter-final game againstthe Vernon Panthers Thursday night at theLangley Events Centre.

The Panthers beat the BritanniaBruinsfrom, Vancouver67-58.

The quarter-final gamefeatured big swings. In the end,the Panthers came outon top63-54.

The Sun Devilsled 14-1 at one point before the Panthers responded, tyingthe game at the half, then taking atheir own13-pointlead, late inthethird quarter.

But South Delta clawed their way back to pull ahead54-52,only to seethe Panthers endthe game on an11-0 run.

Chloe Collinsand Adie Janke bothhit big3’sin the fourth quarter, andfinished with15and14 points, respectively,forthe Panthers, while teammate Paige Leahy wastheleading scorer with19.

South Delta’s Zoe Millette ledall scorers with23 pointsand Jadede Fondaumiere had16.

- withfilesfrom Gary Ahuja/ Ten Feet Sports and Entertainment Ltd.

The South DeltaSun Devilsseniorgirls inaction versusCentennialatthe2024 Tsumura Basketball InvitationalattheLangley EventsCentre.

RYAN MOLAG LANGLEY EVENTS CENTRE

Asa4th-generationLadneritelivingandraisingmyfamilyinthis amazingcommunity,I’mdeeplygratefultoallofmyincredible clients/familiesfortrustingmetobeapartofyourrealestatejourney throughlife’smanychapters.Yoursupportmeanseverythingtome& thisHolidaySeasonIamwishingyouandyourlovedonesajoyful andmemorableholidayseason!

$2,699,900

114550BSTREET

•CUSTOMBUILTHOMEINTHEHEARTOFTSAWWASSEN •BOASTING4,500+SQ.FTOFLUXURYLIVINGSPACE •6BEDROOMS &6BATHROOMS •LEGAL 2BEDROOMBASEMENTSUITE

•OFFERSBUILTINVACUUM,AC,HRV,HEATEDFLOORS ANDCUSTOMLIGHTING •PRIVATELANDSCAPED YARDWITHHOTTUB& SPRINKLERSYSTEM

$1,799,900

4903A53STREET

•5BEDROOM 5BATHROOM

•2,614SQ.FTOPENCONCEPTLIVING

•DETACHED 1BEDROOM 1BATHROOM COACHHOUSE

•CENTRALLOCATION,STEPS AWAYFROM LADNERVILLAGE

$1,799,900

•2,614SQ.FTOPENCONCEPTLIVING

•DETACHED 1BEDROOM 1BATHROOM COACHHOUSE

•CENTRALLOCATION,STEPS AWAYFROM LADNERVILLAGE

$569,000

#15-5661LADNERTRUNKROAD

•UPDATED 2BED 1BATHCONDO

•899SQ.FTINTERIORLIVING SPACE

•LARGEWEST FACING COVERED BALCONY •1PARKING &1STORAGELOCKER •WALKINGDISTANCE TO TRANSIT, RECREATIONANDSCHOOLS

$1,799,900

88851ASTREET

•RENOVATED FAMILYHOMEINCENTRAL TSAWWASSEN

•6BEDROOMS &3BATHROOMS

•9,400+SQ.FTLOTFULLYFENCEDANDPRIVATE •DETACHED900SQ.FTDOUBLECARGARAGE •NEWBACKDECK &STAIRSRECENTLYINSTALLED •INCLUDESAC &HOT WATERONDEMAND

3074743W

RARE FIND!Spaciousupdated2 bedroom &den penthousewithopenconceptplan andvaulted ceilings offerslarge interior &exteriorviews from 2decks of Mt.Baker,VancouverIsland,themarinaandfreighterson theFraserRiver.Asanend corner suiteallows forextra windows providingamazing naturallight in thegreat room/livingand dining area andfeelslikea rancherin thesky!Thequalityhigh-endkitchenfeatureselaborate custom cherry cabinetry, an oversize peninsulaeating area complimentedw/granite countertops, pullout appliancedrawer, thelatestsmart appliances anda hugepantry. Otherupdatesincludelushflooringand qualitypaint throughout.Alsooffers anicegym facility &workshop, 2parking stalls,a huge storagelooker and a5 minute walk to oldtownLadner. (30127774)

Tsawwassenspringsgolfcourseisresortstylelivingatit’sﬁnest.Beautifulopen &bright 2bdrm&denwith 2fullbathroomsandlargeheateddeck. Thiscondohasspectacular viewsofgolfcourseandNorthShoremountainsfeaturing11’ceilings,gourmetkitchen, largeprimarybdrm,big walkinclosetandspa-likeensuite.Enjoytheendless180degree golfcourse,NorthShoremountainsandbeautifulsunsets. Thisunitcomeswith 2parking spacesclosetoelivatortandbikeroom. WalkingdistancetoTsawwassen FitnessCentre, PatQuinn’sRestaurant,Nat’s,Coffee,Newman’sandTsawwassenMills.Don’tmissthis fabulouscondo.

$869,000 $1,224,900

2Bedroomsanddenongroundlevelinroyaloaks.Great developmentandlocation, walkingdistancetoallamenitiesand veryquietlocation. Thisunitwithitssizeandextraden rarely cometomarketsodon’tmiss your chanceto owninthisfabulous development. Thisniceunitisingoodconditionwithundated appliances.

FABULOUSPENTHOUSEWITH 3BEDROOMS, 2FULL BATHROOMS,1188sq.ft.,CORNER UNITANDfootstepstoTsawwassenMillsshoppingdistrict!THISOpen&BrightSouthEastunit offershighqualityﬁnishing.Beautifulkitchenwithstainlesssteelappliances,quartzcountertops, undermountsink &oversizedislandforentertaining.9’ceilingsgive thiscondo WONDERFULspace ANDLIGHT.BEAUTIFULPRIMARYbedroomtuckeddownthehallwith walkthroughcloset& gorgeousensuitebath wdoublesinks.Bonusunderground 2parkingstalls &securedstoragelocker. THISComplexfeatures aGym &amenityroom.Easyaccess Freeway,Ferry &publictransit.Come experiencethelifestyleofSunnyTsawwassen!THESEPENTHOUSE’SRARELYCOME TO MARKET. CALLFORDETAILS.

209-555513AAvenue, Tsawwassen

$825,000

Spacious1400sqftcondo with 2parkingstallsat WindsorWoods!

482ShannonWay, Tsawwassen

$1,699,000 Fullyrenovated familyhomewith separateentrance in-lawsuite.

108-136956Street, Tsawwassen

$518,000 1bedroomcondowithits ownprivatesunnypatio juststepsawayfromthe towncenter.

1511KirkwoodRoad, Tsawwassen

$1,269,000

PRIMELOCATION BEACHGROVEGEMExceptionalOpportunity!

366AStreet,BoundaryBay

$1,450,000

NestlednexttoPoint Robertsthisquietproperty isaperfectlocationfor investors,builders, orsmallfamily.

309S110056Street, RoyalOaks

$799,000 Spacious2bedroom penthouse, inimmaculatecondition.

5278St.Andrews Place

$1,649,000

Discovertheepitomeof rancherstylelivinginthis lovelyhomesituatedina quietcul-de-saclocationin ImperialVillage

330Tsawwassen, BeachRoad

$3,998,000

Panoramicoceanfront property!85FTwater frontage.By appointmentonly.

HappyHolidays

Wishing youand yourlovedonesaWonderful

Ilookforwardtoworkingwithyouin2025! ASpecial Thank youtoall of my clientsfor your suppor tin2024!

HUGELOTWITHHUGEFUTURE!

1100WILMINGTONDRIVE

PropertySizeandLocation: Amazing16,071sq.ft.estate-sizedlotin aquiet,central Tsawwassenlocation.

HomeFeatures: Two-levelhomewith 5bedrooms, a6-year-old roof,hardwood floors,and acomfortablefloorplanwith roomforin-lawsdownstairs.

FuturePotential: Massivelotwithspaceforfuturedevelopments, suchas ashop, duplex,orlargerseconddwelling;Deltapermitsupto 4unitsor8734sq.ft. maximumbuildingenvelope.

DevelopmentOptions: Deltaisopentoconsidering alargerseconddwellingwith squarefootagepotentiallycomingoutofthemainhouse.

Convenience: Convenientlylocatedjust a15-minutewalktomostamenitiesintown.

WESTHAMISLANDLIVING!

PrimeLocation:3.19-acreparcelon WesthamIsland,offeringthetranquilityof countrylivingjust10minutesfromurbanconveniences.

CharmingHome:Features awell-maintained1,479sq.ft.3-bedroomrancherwith spacious roomsthroughout.

OutdoorFeatures:Includes alargegardenarea, astorageshed,andbeautifully landscapedsurroundings.

ExpansionPotential:DeltaMunicipalityallowsfortheconstructionof a3,552sq.ft. homeplusanadditional1,937sq.ft.dwelling,idealforextendedfamilies.

UniqueLifestyle:Enjoy aspeciallifestyleclosetonaturewhilebeingmomentsaway fromtheamenitiesofDelta.

PrimeParcel:20.25-acrepropertywithtwohomesandan8,400sq.ft.barn,located on aquietsectionof104thnearBoundaryBayand aprivateairstrip.

DrivewayAccess:FuturedrivewayaccessoffHornbyDrive,suitableforlargetrucks.

MainHome: A3,162sq.ft.4-bedroomrancher,builtin1972, renovatedin1987, with aroof replaced12yearsagoand a30-carcementdriveway.

SecondHome: A3-bedroomrancher,idealas afuturebuildingsite.

Barn: Afirst-classfacilityusedforbreedingracehorses,with asteel roofand cladding,suitableforvariousfarminguseswithgoodnearbyirrigation.

MLSR2832305360ºTOUR

MLSR2923373360”TOUR

Todd Jackson, B.A.

RichardLowe, RIBC

Amy Lambert, B.A.

Mike VanStraaten, BMgt Realtor

PROUDL YS ERVINGANDLIVINGINSOUT HD EL TA

OurteamatPacificWestwishes you aseasonfilledwithjoy, peace,and cherishedmoments. Thankyoufortrustingustohelp you findyourperfecthome. Here’s to abrightandprosperous NewYear!

The 2024 FestivalofLightsis onatTsawwassen Springs!

StopbytoseeourPacificWest ChristmasTreeandbesure to enterourdrawfor a$100Gift CardtoPat Quinn’srestaurant. Thefestivalrunsdailyuntil January5th,2025,startingat 4pmandadmissionisFREE. Celebratetheseasonand supporttheDeltaHospitaland CommunityHealthFoundation!

JackKnoedler

604.353.6410

JackKnoedler@remax.net

Welcometotheentire6th-floorpenthouseatNorthgateOffice Tower,amodernandvibrant6-storyconcreteofficebuildingatthe gateway toTsawwassen. Thisexceptionalpenthouseoffersnearly3,000sqftofpremiumofficespace,featuringexpansive views and alargepatio. Thespaceboasts10-footceilingsandlargewindows,fillingtheareawithnaturallightandcreating abright,open atmosphere. Themoderndesignincludes aspaciousmainofficearea, aseparatereceptionspace,and aprivatesuite,withflexiblelayout optionstoaccommodate variousbusinessneeds.Additionally,thepropertyofferssevendesignatedparkingstalls,lowmaintenance fees,andamplevisitorparkingbothabove andbelowground.If you’relookingforthe finest officespaceinSouthDelta,thisisit.

$1,299,000

585716th Ave

CharmingBeachGrove RancherinSunnyTsawwassen.Centrallylocatedandonly afewblockstotheBeach, BeachGrove ElementarySchool,shopping,recreationcenter,transitandgolfcourse. 2bedroom/2bathroomwith newerroof,furnace,andhot waterondemand.Large,coveredpatioandpowered workshopoutback.Great Starterhomeorbuild yourdreamhome.(6140sqftlot55.77ft x110ft)providesflexibledevelopmentoptions.

$1,499,000

11031RiverRoad

Experienceserenelivingon1.58acreswiththisbeautiful4-bedroom,2-bathhome. Boasting13,000sqftofflat,usablespace,this propertyoffersendlesspotential. Thehomefeatures awalkoutbasementwith afullyequippedkitchenbothupstairsanddown.Upstairs, find 2bedrooms, 1bath,andanupdatedkitchenandflooring.Downstairs,twogenerouslysizedbedroomsprovideamplespace.Enjoy stunningviewsofthe FraserRiverandcityfromthelarge,covereddeck, overlooking avastgreenspaceand ravine. Featuringanupdated roof,HWtank,furnace,and AC,thishomehasbeenmeticulouslymaintained.Anenclosedcarport,currentlysetupas aworkshop,can easilybeconvertedinto agarage,addingfurtherflexibilitytothisproperty.Idealformulti-generationallivingorinvestment!

EugeneKnoedler 604.219.3177

Eugene@eugenek.ca

$1,948,000

3180StevestonHighway

Experienceluxuryand charminthiscustomexecutive homeintheheartofStevestonVillage. Featuring vaultedceilingsandmassive windows,thisbeautifullydesignedresidenceisfilledwithnaturallight. Withfourspaciousbedroomsandthreebaths,thehome includes astunningprimaryensuitewithskylightsand asoakertub. Thegourmetkitchenflowsintothefamilyroom,creatinga perfectspaceforentertaining,complemented by aseparateformaldiningroom.Enjoylow-maintenancelandscapingand adetached doublegaragewithextrastorage. ThishomecombineseleganceandpracticalityinoneofSteveston’smostdesirablelocations.

NEWPRICE

$1,688,000

1648SpyglassCrescent

YourIdeal FamilyHomeinImperialVillage! Thisbeautifullymaintained4-bedroom,3-bathroomhomeoffers over3,000sqftofbrightlivingspace. The traditional layoutfeaturesallbedroomsand aspaciousgamesroom upstairs,including agrandprimarysuitewith awalk-inclosetand soakertub.Enjoytheprivacy of afully-fenced backyardbackingontothehillsidewithmaturelandscaping. With a6yearoldroofandnewflooring,thishome is move-inready.

$2,188,000

33652ndSt.

Beautifullyredesignedandsignificantlyrenovated by KempConstructionin2010,thisfamilyhomeintheUpperTsawwassen/PebbleHillareais readyfor yourfamily.Themainfloorwelcomes youwith alargeopenkitchen,greatroomconceptwith vaultedceilings,living/diningroom,spacious kitchenandeatingareaopeningto alargepatio,plus aseparatefamily/gamesroom. Thegreatroomis overlookingthelargesunnybackyardwith a stunningnewsaltwaterpoolandcoveredhottubwith aprivatefirebowlseatingarea. This yardissetupforthekidstoplaywhileentertaining familyandguests.Completingthemainflooris aconvenientoffice/guestroomwithensuitebathroom. 4largebedroomsupwith 3bathsincluding aluxuriousensuiteintheprimarybedroom.Incredibleimprovementsinclude,HRVsystem,on-demandhot water,newelectrical,plumbing, in-groundsprinkler,stainlesssteelappliances,roof,siding,windows,fireplaceandmore...atraditionalhomewithallthemodernfeatures.

2| 2| 909sqft $579,000 4628 53 St -Ladner 208-5599

Bright,well-maintainedcondo with amodern openfloorplaninSolei Terrace,aboutique-style buildingwithjust32units, only two blocksfrom Tsawwassen Town Centre!Featuringupgraded hardwoodfloors, aspaciouskitchenwithgranite countertops,s/s appliances, &alargeisland with seatingfor four.1parking, 1storage,& pets welcome!Idealforinvestorswithexcellent tenantsinplaceoraperfectspot foryou to call home!

Our sincerest appreciationfor yourbusiness andreferrals, we look forward to workingwith you in 2025!

6643SunshineCoast Hwy

2+ den

Prime realestate opportunity! Perfectlysituated near town, this 2-bedroomranchergracesa spacious, flat9178sq.ft.lot with 70.57ftfrontage &129.98ftdepth.Boastingasunny easternexposedrearyard.The subdivisionpotential when combined with theneighboringproperty 463853rd, resultsinatotalof18,225 sqft &the possibilityfor3-4lots.A uniqueandsubstantial opportunityfor future development!

3| 2| 2174 sqft 1acrelot |$1,939,000

Waterfrontviews ofthe TrailIslands from every room!Bright &airymain floor w/ open-concept living/dining, &gourmet kitchen.Main floor primarybedroomalsow/deck access.Upstairs, twospaciousbedrooms, lowerlevel offersa rec-roomleading tothe hot tub, yoga deck, outdoorshower,sandy firepit area &direct beach/oceanaccess.

463853St -Ladner

3| 1| 1221 sqft 9052 sqftlot |$1,569,000

Unlock arealm ofpossibilitieswith this exceptional real estategem! Nestledin an ideal locationjust steps fromtown,this3-bedroom rancher standsproudly onan expansive 9,052 sq. ft. flatlotwith an eastern exposure,featuring an impressive77-footfrontage &a depthof 117.15feetMust besoldwith462853rdboth properties combinedoffer atotalof18,225sqft creating acanvas for3-4lots.

4BDRM, 4BATH, 2CAR GARAGE TOWNHOME WITHONLYONENEIGHBOUR.

4251792STARLINGDR. TSAWWASSEN LvngRmwith12ft.Ceilingbringingtheoutdoorsin! 653Sq.ft. 1Bdrm, Den&openkitchenwithcentreisland.Extralarge viewbalcony. Absolutelygorgeous! Amustsee!

TimRohwer

604.762.2041

tim@thedeltagroup.ca

•Fullydetached 2bedroom &den rancherwith1658sq.ft.oflivingspace

•Featuresopenconceptstyleliving,large gourmetkitchen,familyroometc,

•SidebysideDoublegaragewithlarge fencegardens!

•StepstoMillennium Trail,Riversetting& Restaurants!

www.thedeltagroup.ca

RIVERFRONTLIFESTYLE!

•Spacious 2Bedroom 2Bathrenovated modernupstylecondo

•Bringyourboat(30’Boatslip)toenjoy yearroundcruising

•Primelocationtostroll(1dogor 1cat Welcome)toparks,recreation,shops, & restaurantsinHistoricalLadner

•Greatopportunitytoenjoytranquil resortstyleliving!

kelsey@thedeltagroup.ca

•Outstandingcustombuilt 4bedroom &denhome

•Spaciouslivingareaof3,431sq.ft.

•Nestledin aquietcul-de-saconlargesouthwestlot

•Beautifulopenconceptlivingwithhigh-end appliances: Wolfe,SubZero &Miele

•Coveredpatiowith 2heaters,ingroundsprinkler system &shed

•Oversizedgaragewithplentyofstorage

•Primelocation! WalkingdistancetoLadner Elementary, DeltaSecondarySchool,parks,shops, transit &more!

•Uniquepropertieslikethisare arareopportunity tofind

•TOP FLOORcondo at Tsawwassen Springs

•Spacious1368sq. ft.2bedroom &den

•Doublecar garage

•Golfcoursecommunity

YourCommunity

MARKETPLACE

Calloremailtoplaceyourad, MondaythroughFriday8:30amto4:30pm 604-653-7851

nmather@glaciermedia.ca

Bookyouradonlineanytimeat delta-optimist.adperfect.com

Inlovingmemoryof PaulJames Rogan

November3,1943 -December19, 2023

Youleftusoneyearago,butyouremaininour heartseveryday.

August12,1933 -December3,2024

It is withgreatsadness we announcethepassing of Carl“Andy”Andersonat the ageof91, with his wife anddaughterbyhisside.He willbe lovingly rememberedbyElaine, hiswifeof64years;his daughterKatherineand son-in-law Grahamandhis granddaughters Sarah,Anikaand Kristjana.Heis predeceased byhis son Kurtisandhis daughter Kristin.Hewill begreatly missed.

Untilwemeetagain,mayGodholdyouinthe palmofHishand. WIGGLESWORTH,LeslieBart February20,1939 -December10,2024

Andywasbornandraisedon afarmsouth of LaFleche,SK. Andy joined theRCMP in1952and undertook his recruit traininginReginaand then completedhistraininginOttawa. From there he wasstationed inKamloops,Lillooet,WilliamsLake, Kelowna,Ottawa, Regina,Nipawin,Balcarresand finally backto Regina whereheretiredfromthe RCMPas aStaff Sargentafter25yearsofservice. Andy continuedhis careerininvestigationsforthe federal government includingConsumer CorporateAffairsin CalgaryandAgriculture Canada inWinnipegand Vancouver,finallyretiring after many yearsof publicservicein Tsawwassen, BC.

AndyhadthehonourofguardingQueen Elizabeth IIandPrince Philip on their visit toPennaskLake in 1959.He was aremarkablestory teller,had agreat senseofhumourandenjoyedleadingthe singalong/parties withhisbanjo.He willbe missedbyall his familyandfriendswho lovedandrespected him.

ACelebrationofLife willbeheld onFriday,January 10th at1:00 pm atSt.David’sAnglican Church in Tsawwassen,BC.

FORSYTH,MarieA. January1,1929 −November29,2024 OurMom,MarieForsyth,passedawaysuddenly onNovember29,2024.Sheispredeceasedby herhusbandKennethandgrandsonKenny.Mom andDadspenttheirretirementyearsinLadnerand enjoyedmany"snowbird"holidaysinArizona,as wellasbeingactiveintheLadnerLawn Bowling Club.SheissurvivedbyherdaughtersMarjorie, SusanandKatie;son−in−law Richard; grandchildrenScott,Stefanie(Aaron),Josee (Chris),Clio,andJillian(Justin);andgreat− grandchildrenMelayna,Ella,HadleyandBeau Richard.Shewillberememberedwithlovebyall herfamily. Aprivatefamilygatheringwillbeheldin Januarytocelebratewhatwouldbeher96th birthday.Restinpeace,Mom.

ANDERSON,Carl“Andy”

REMEMBRANCES

OBITUARIES

HAREN,CarolAnn

October5,1935 -December14,2024

CarolAnnHaren,89yearsold,ofDelta,BC,died peacefullyonDecember14,2024,at theIrene ThomasHospice.

Carolwasborn in TorontoonOctober5,1935, to DonaldandHelenThomson,bigsisterto William andDonald.Carolgrew upin amilitaryhome, movingbackand forthbetweenOntario and BC. In 1955,sheenlisted in The RoyalCanadianAir Force inKingston.Shebeganworkingforthe Royal Bank in1957beforemoving toEngland in1961 totrain as anurse.AftercompletingthreeyearsofGeneral Nursing,she wentonto train as amidwife. By 1966,Carol movedtoAliceSprings,Australia, wheresheworkedas amaternitynurse.She met JamesHaren in 1967,whoshe latermarriedin 1970.JamesandCarolmovedback to Canada, andCarolbegan arewarding30-yearnursing careeratRichmondGeneral Hospital.Retirement brought abouttheopportunityformoretravel, includingfourmission trips to Thailand in her goldenyears. Carol lived alife filledwith much kindnessandgenerosity.SheknewherSaviour lovedher,andnowshe lives in hiseverlasting arms.

Carol waspredeceasedbyherhusbandJames andbrothers WilliamandDonaldand is survivedby herdaughterElaine; sonMatthew (Joanne); nephew Darrell(Tracey);great-niecesPaigeand Taylor;great-great-niece Lydia;grandchildrenLisa, FletcherandSienna;and great-grandchildren LudovicandBella.

ACelebrationofLifewillbeheldatCedarPark Church in LadneronDecember20at1pm.

In lieuofflowers,donationstoThe Kidney FoundationofCanadaor TheCanadian Cancer Societywould begreatlyappreciated.

McCARTHY,JohnHoward

John Howard McCarthy,anorthernstar of positivity and joy, passed away on December9th, 2024, at the age of85.Howard,ashe was commonly known,served as the presidentofthe Gateway Society ServicesforPersonswithAutism, volunteered countlesshourswiththe Rotary Club ofDelta and thelocal ShrineClub;hehadan immensepassiontogive back tothe community he livedin. Whether it wasservingasahigh-level rolein volunteerwork ordressingupasSantafor many“Breakfast’s with Santa”,Howardwasalways willingtolend ahandforanycause.

Howardspenthisprofessionalcareeras aBuilder, Realtor,and aNotaryPublic.Manyexamples of his workas abuildercanbefound all overthe South Delta areaandarestillenjoyedasfamilyhomes today.Hetookhisknowledge ofbuildingtorealty as heenjoyed asuccessfulcareeras arealtor. HowardthenshiftedtoNotarywhenhetookover hisfather’sofficewhichwaslocatedintheheart of Tsawwassen.

Howardwasprimarily alover of life. Youcould oftenfindhimtraveling,participatinginsocial events,andmost often on aboattravelingthe westerncoastline ofNorthAmerica.Beinganavid sealover,Howardspentmuch of histime onthe dockwithhisfriendsandfamily,working on his boat,ortakinghisloved onestohisfavoriteplaces in theSouthern GulfIslands.Whetherhewasdoing anyoftheaforementionedactivities,Howard alwaysbroughtan overwhelminglypositiveattitude thatcould fillthecontents of anyroomthathewas in.Thelastingeffect of hispresence willnotbe soonforgottenandthejoyhebroughttothelives of hisfriendsandfamilywillbecarried oninhis honorineveryfacet of life.

SPARKESEMSLEY,Marilyn

July4,1943 -December12,2024

Ourfamiliesareso very sadto saygoodbye to Marilyn Sparkes Emsley(nee Loney)onDecember 12,2024,when shediedofcomplications fromlymphoma at 81 years old, leavingher husbandRoger Emsley withtheireightwonderful loved-filledyears of marriage together andmemories fora lifetime,and as well her families.

Marilynwas the youngestofthree childrenborntoher parents, Mary (Oxenham) andStan Loney,onJuly4,1943.Her parents, sisterDoreen Foxwell, andbrother EdLoneypredeceased her.

Marilyn livedenergeticallyandlovedwith vivacity foreachandevery oneofthose 81 years. Shewas born in Vancouver andlivedalmost her whole lifein BC.She movedwithher parentsfromthe Okanagan to White Rock in 1955when shewas age twelve.

Marilyn’senergyand love of lifeshonethroughin everything shedid. She hada varied worklifeculminating in averysuccessfulcareer as arealestate professionaland property manager. She volunteered fora number of yearsatthe Delta HospitalThriftStore. Shewasfitand active,likedswimming, participated in the SunRun, took upgolfandwas alongtime memberofBeach GroveGolfClub (3holes-in-one!).

After leaving school, shemarried TedLumley in1960 andgavebirthtoher son Davidanddaughter Susan.She divorced in 1968 andlater marriedBernie Sparkes,nextgivingbirthtoher second daughterSelena.She movedto Tsawwassenin1970and divorcedfor asecondtimeshortlyafter.Tsawwassen remainedher homeforthe rest of her life,andMarilynremained unmarried until 2016when she marriedRoger Emsley.

Marilyn was aclose friend of Angela Emsley,Roger’sfirst wife,who diedin May 2016 and was muchlovedbybothofthem. TogetherwithRoger,they enjoyed living in Beach Grove Tsawwassen, blessedwithawaterfront propertywhere everydaygave themnew views andexperiences oftheever-changingBirdlife, the always-moving tidal watersofBoundaryBay andthe magnificent viewsof Mount Baker.Marilynlovedher home and enjoyed renovating and updatingtheir property, playedthe pianoand spent manyhappy hoursgardening andworking outsideinthesummer. She andRogertravelledextensively,exploring new places bothinternationally andwithinCanada. Summer forthem was atime toenjoy their Boundary Bay-facinghome andgarden, with glassesofwineevery evening on their patio.They lovedtohave familymembers andfriends come andjoin them.

Marilynand Roger share adeep commitment totheirChristianfaith.They married in 2016 at AllSaints Anglican ChurchinLadner andattendedworshipevery Sundayat Benediction LutheranChurchin Tsawwassen asactivemembers of theirfaithcommunity.

HowardissurvivedbyhislovingwifeCarol,histwo sons Ted(Michelle)andJohn(Marnie),andhis daughterMichelle(Lee).Hewasalsosurrounded by hisgrandchildren Taylor(Alyssa),Marina (Bryan),Emma,andAlyshaaswellashisgreat grandchildren Cole, Camilla, Blakely,AsherandAce.

To know HowardwastoloveHowardandto whoeverisreading,hewouldwantyoutoknow thatthefeelingismutual.

Marilyn leavesbehinda wonderful blended family:sonDavid (wifeGlynis,their daughtersBrianne andMariah,and theirtwo granddaughtersLake andOliveMarilyn’stwogreat-granddaughters); daughterSusan(husband Dewayne); and daughterSelena(her sonKarstenand daughterMaya).On Roger’sside:inthe UK,hissister Viv(husband Bob andtheirfamily);inCanada, two daughtersKirsty(husbandCory, sonsHarrisonand Parker);Tara(husbandMike,daughters Kate andEmma and sonJack);and as wellthe Loney familyclan ofwhich Marilyn was the matriarch,andher cousins,nephews andnieces. Shewaswellloved by hermanyfriends in Delta andelsewhere inCanadaandaround theworld.

Marilynwashealthyand energeticthroughout her life,onlybecoming illduringa trip with Roger toFrancein the summerof2024. When they returnedhome, she wasdiagnosedwith lymphoma andstartedtreatment.However,the cancer overwhelmed herand ended her life.Our thankstothe staff oftheRichmond General Hospitalandthe CancerClinicandtothe SalvationArmyRotary Hospice House in Richmond.Inlieuofflowers, pleasedonate totheBC CancerSociety and the SalvationArmy.

Her funeral service and celebration of life will be heldat Benediction Lutheran Church Tsawwassen at adateto be confirmed.

SUDOKU

Sudokupuzzlesare formattedas a9x9grid, brokenintonine3x3 boxes. To solve aSudoku, thenumbers 1through9 mustfilleachrow,column andbox.Eachnumbercan appearonlyonceineach row,columnandbox. You canfigureouttheorder inwhichthenumbers willappearbyusingthe numericcluesalready providedintheboxes.

PUZZLEANSWERSONSEPARATE PAGE

COMMUNITY

ANNOUNCEMENTS

LOWCOST

LEGAL

1.Millerbeervariety

4.Memberofpeople inhabitingBeringSea islands

9.Stomach 14.Investmentvehicle

15.Fictionalsoccer coachTed

16.Irregularinbotanicalparlance

17.Ceasestanding 18.“AmericanHorror Story”actress

20.Growmilkteeth 22.Plantparts

1.DormantPeruvian volcano

2.Norwegiancomposer

3.Indicateslocation 4.Pubs

5.Unabletowalkeasily

6.Electronicwarfaresupportmeasures

7.Worldleader

8.Midsection

9.Jewishcalendar month

10.Urologicalcondition

23.Snowhouse 24.Mostcontemptuous

28.Notetorepay 29.OldEnglish 30.Wings

31.Financialinstitutions

33.ParksandLopez aretwo

37.Mr.T’s“TheATeam”character

38.Relativebiological effectiveness(abbr.) 39.Giveoff

11.Asmallquantityof anything

12.MountainTime 13.Affirmative 19.Wordelement meaningear 21.Carriedaway 24.Short-billedrails 25.Newbornchild 26.Sword

27.Groupsofpeople 31.Prickly,scrambling shrubs

41.Semiticalphabet letter

42.Farmstate 43.ActressSarandon 44.Backparts

46.Zoroastrianconceptofholyfire 49.Touchdown

50.Onepointnorthof dueeast

51.Refurbishes 55.SilverandDogg aretwo

58.FormerTigers catcherAlex

32.Becomelessintense 34.Polishes

35.Indicatesposition 36.Songssungtoone’s beloved

40.The12thletterofthe Greekalphabet

59.Typeofenvelope 60.Seriouslyconsidered

64.Unhappy

65.Past(archaic) 66.Asianwilddog

67.OldEnglishletter 68.Youngdomestic sheep

69.Footballplayers needtogainthem 70.Witness

Byvirtueofthe Warehouseman’sLienAct Mundies Towing,Storage &Service(1976)Ltd. willdisposeof:

Cremation Package$993.00 includes DeathCertificate& Taxes

Call forDetails: 604-574-8822

Call:604-574-8822

Email:Bakerview@telus.net

Crematorium &CelebrationCentre

Crematorium &Celebration CentreCommunityCrematorium &CelebrationCentreLtd.

HeadOfﬁce 34863Cemetery Avenue, Mission,BC Community Crematorium &CelebrationCentreLtd. $99

CommunityCrematorium &CelebrationCentreLtd.

Head Office:34863 CemetaryAvenue,Mission,BC

CremationPackages Available. URN’sstartingat $89 Arrangementsmadeinthecomfortoryourhome, ourofﬁce,byemailorfaxforyourconvenience. Nopressuresalesorcommission. Bakerviewonlyprovideswhatyouaskfor. We areheretohelpeverystepoftheway. www.bakerviewcrematorium.com

LOst?

1)1997 HOLIDAIRERAMBL VIN#3FCMF53G7TJA08671

RO: VERNONBOUCHER

2)2019FORDF150VIN#1FTEW1EB9KKD86154

RO: FOXFERRY BEER

3)2004 TOYOTAMATRX VIN#2T1KR32E14C825498

RO:CARSON OGLE

4)2003 PONTIAC GRNAM VIN#1G2NF52E63M657221

RO: IVICA TOMIC

5)2023DODGEDURANGO VIN#1C4SDJGJ3PC583531

RO:GURMUKHSINGH

6) 1992 HONDA M/CVIN#MC131802359

RO:NIKITA GUTMAN

7) 2005BMW X5VIN#5UXFB53575LV15204

RO:DANNYBEAULIEU

8)2016CHRYSLER300 VIN#2C3CCARG0GH231503

RO:NICHOLASDUNLOP

9)2002 JAGUAR XTYPEVIN#SAJGA53CX2WC34570

RO:ROBYN JENKINS

10) 2009 ACURA TLVIN#19UUA86529A801263

RO: JAKE SAMPSON

11) 2012CHEVROLETVOLTVIN#1G1RD6E46CU115654

RO:RAYDENSENTOSA

12) 2015HONDA M/CVIN#MLHPC4623F5200014

RO: LUSANNAYUET

Units may be viewedand bids to be submitted on FRIDAY DEC27,2024 at 5917 Thorne Avenue Burnaby,BC between10:00am to 3:00 pm.All written bids toMundie’s Towing 5917 Thorne Ave, Burnaby,BCV3N2T8.

WarehouseLienAct

Thepersonal property of Lee Mallory, formerlyof167456th St, Tsawwassen, BC, V4L 2M5,storedat3480RiverRd W, Delta,BCand consisting of householdgoods,willbesoldby public auctiononJanuary3,2025. Amountowing: $475.00. For moreinformationcall604-961-0988

16001061AAve,2ndAve,51ASt,52ASt........................................................................................................................59 16001082AAve, 2Ave, 4Ave,52ASt,52St,MurphyDR W.

16001131stAve,50thSt, WalkerAve, WallaceAve..........................................................................................................57 1600232GreenlandDr,ParkgroveCres, WoodlandDr......................................................................................................76 1600234AlpenwoodLane,GroverridgeWynd,SherwoodBlvd,Pl.....................................................................................44 1600302EhkolieCres,ShamanCres,SkanaDr,WalaleeDr.............................................................................................83 1600304 KumaCres, PacificCrt,Dr,PlSkanaDr..............................................................................................................57 1600305

1600306

Dr,StahakenCrt,Pl................................................................................................................................44 1600321GaleDr,GalePl.................................................................................................................................................40 160032254thSt,56thSt,7BAve,7thAve,GilchristDr,Pl. 77 1600324 4Ave,4AAve,55AST,55ST. 77 16003254AAve,54thSt,5BAve,6thAve,AllenDr,RawlinsCres....................................................................................83 160040413BAve,15BAve16thAve,54thSt,55ASt,55thSt.........................................................................................70 160040952ndSt,53ASt,BelairCres,SaratogaDr,WindsorCres,BelairDr.....................................................................79 160041316thAve,53ASt,WildwoodCres 52 1600425OspreyDr,BlueHeron Way. .56 161030946thAve,47AAve,55ASt,55BSt,55St...........................................................................................................61

USTOREIT

ULOCKIT

3Self-Storage Buildings in Tsawwassentoserveyou. Varioussizesavailable. Contactusat: 604-424-9977

Storage@BarbicanPM.ca

Formoredetailsvisit: BarbicanPM.ca/Storage

SUNSHINE CLEANING

“you’ve tried the rest, now trythe best.”

Move Ins- Move Outs, Weekly • Bi-Weekly • Monthly Starting @$120cleanings.

• WindowCleaning • Workguarantee.Excrefs. 604-716-8631

ResidentialCleaningService Week • Bi-Weekly • Monthly MoveIn • MoveOut

Sophia • 604-805-3376 www.pumacleaning.com

DRYWALL

ReliableWork *Res &Comm*35YrsExp. Mike604-789-5268

•Cedar Fencing •VinylFencing •Gates• Pavers

• Retaining Walls •Landscaping INSTALLATION &REPAIRS

604-271-5319 778-863-5319

HardwoodFloor RefinishingExperts

•Repairs •Staining •Installation • FreeEstimates 604-376-7224 centuryhardwood.com

HANDYMAN RENOVATIONS

Kitchens &Bathrooms •Plumbing •Countertops •Flooring •Paint &More. CallMICfor quote: 604-725-3127

AHandyman forSeniors BRUCERtheSPRUCER 604-946-9206

CompleteLawnCare FallClean-up

•Weeding•Trim •Pruning • PowerRake •Moss Control •LawnMowing sbgardening@hotmail.ca 604-710-1348

•LawnCuts &Maintenance •FullLandscapeProjects CallforaYardMakeover! OnecalldoesitAll!WCB 604-943-0043 www.landplus.ca

BRADS JUNK REMOVAL.com

20 YearLabour Warranty Available Familyowned &operated. 604-591-3500 604-502-8683 allseasonsroofing.ca

Alladvertisingpublishedinthisnewspaperis acceptedonthepremisethatthemerchandise andservicesofferedareaccuratelydescribed andwillinglysoldtobuyersattheadvertised prices.Advertisersareawareofthese conditions.Advertisingthatdoesnotconform tothesestandardsorthatisdeceptiveor misleading,isneverknowinglyaccepted. Ifanyreaderencountersnon-compliance withthesestandardsweaskthatyou informthePublisherofthisnewspaperand TheAdvertisingStandardsCouncilofB.C.

OMISSIONANDERROR: Thepublishersdo notguaranteetheinsertionof aparticular advertisementon aspecifieddate,oratall, althougheveryeffortwillbemadetomeet thewishesoftheadvertisers.Further,the publishersdonotacceptliabilityforanyloss ofdamagecausedbyanerrororinaccuracy in theprintingofanadvertisementbeyond theamountpaidforthespaceactually occupiedbytheportionoftheadvertisement inwhichtheerroroccurred.Anycorrections ofchangeswillbemadeinthenextavailable issue.TheDeltaOptimistwillberesponsible foronlyoneincorrectinsertionwithliability limitedtothatportionoftheadvertisement affectedbytheerror.Requestforadjustments orcorrectionsonchargesmustbemade within30daysofthead’sexpiration. For best resultsplease checkyouradfor accuracythefirstdayitappears.Refunds madeonlyafter 7businessdaysnotice!

• FULLSERVICEJUNKREMOVAL &Clean-Up at AffordableRates

• Pianos &Hot TubsNoProblem

• Booked Appointments

• Same-DayService

• Residential &Commercial