Delta Optimist April 2 2014 by Delta Optimist

Lotto jackpot

Ladner co-workers share $1 million

Ivens remembered

Auto accident claims long-time lawyer

Trash recycling plan Opposition growing to provincial initiative

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Teen suspect back in court Preliminary hearing underway into last year’s fatal stabbing at Tsawwassen First Nation BY

JESSICA KERR

jkerr@delta-optimist.com

A preliminary inquiry into last year’s fatal Tsawwassen First Nation stabbing started in Surrey provincial court yesterday. The suspect, who was 17 at

the time and cannot be named under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, stands charged with second degree murder and attempted murder after an alleged attack that left one teen dead and another critically injured. Police were called to the 1700-

block of Tsawwassen Drive at around 10 p.m. on Feb. 15, 2013. Upon arrival, officers discovered two teenage girls suffering from stab wounds. Both were treated at the scene before being taken to hospital. The 16-year-old victim succumbed to her injuries.

The cause of the fire Sunday that destroyed a yacht moored in the 4100-block of River Road has yet to be determined.

The boy was taken into custody later the next morning. The accused and the victims were known to each other. A preliminary inquiry, which is subject to a publication ban, is held to determine whether there is enough evidence to go to trial.

PHOTO BY

ROB PETTIGREW

60-foot yacht moored along River Road gutted in weekend blaze A yacht suffered extensive damage in a fire Sunday. Delta Fire Department crews were called to the 4100-block of River Road just before 1 p.m. after reports of a vessel on fire.

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Deputy chief Ken Sim said firefighters arrived on scene to discover a 60-foot yacht engulfed in flames. “It was well involved and intense when we arrived,” he

said, adding the boat was tied to a dock. While firefighters battled the blaze from the shore, a marine rescue unit, which just happened to be in the area at the time, stood

by to help on the water side. There were no injuries and no one was on board at the time of the blaze, Sim said. The cause of the fire is not yet known.

Teacher is facing new sex assault charges BY

JESSICA KERR

jkerr@delta-optimist.com

The former Delta teacher who had sex assault charges against him stayed is back in court. Robin Wait is facing charges of assault and sexual assault stemming from two incidents last year. The former Delta Secondary teacher made an appearance in Downtown Community Court last week and has his next court appearance scheduled for April 24. In November 2011, officers were called to Delta Secondary after a student alleged a teacher had sexually assaulted her. Wait was identified by the girl and a friend through photos in the school yearbook. A few days later, a second student made similar allegations and Wait was charged with two counts of sexual assault and two counts of sexual interference. After the arrest and charges, Wait was suspended without pay by the Delta school district. In August 2012, Crown counsel elected to stay the charges against Wait, stating there was not a substantial likelihood of a conviction in the case. Last year, Wait launched a lawsuit against the Corporation of Delta and four unnamed Delta police officers claiming the investigation was negligent because the officers failed to properly interview the two girls and other relevant witnesses. That case is still before the courts.

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There are many ways to connect with the Optimist, both online and through social media.

What's Layared today "" Page 5 Check out a video about B.C. Assessment’s photo update initiative. "" Page 14 See more photos of the annual Spring Clean-Up. Viewing Layared content in the Optimist is easy. Just download the free app from www.layar.com or your app store for your iOS or Android phone and then scan the page where you see the Layar logo. That way you'll be able to access additional content like videos, photos and more.

Keep up to date on the latest community news, sports and events, and have your say in our web poll, online or on your smart phone at: www.delta-optimist.com

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@DeltaOptimist @Optimist_sports @GyarmatiSandor @willis_optimist @JessicaEKerr

Visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ TheDeltaOptimist to join the conversation on today's hottest issues.

Have Your Say Optimist readers can comment on online stories on our website.

Co-workers share lottery win

Ticket checked more than two weeks after draw results in $1 million MAXMILLION prize Six Delta co-workers who have been playing the lottery together for over three years hit it big last month when they shared a $1 million MAXMILLION prize. Jackie Collins, responsible for buying the group’s tickets each week, admits she doesn’t always check them right away. “So when I stopped for gas more than two weeks later I figured I should check the tickets. On the last ticket I saw the zeros flashing and neither I nor the retailer knew what to do.” Collins headed straight to the London Drugs in Ladner to share the exciting news but none of her co-workers believed a word she said. “There’s a prankster in our group,” she explained.

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Co-workers (from left) Chad Rana, Laurie Norris, Jackie Collins, Lynn Kaye, Richard Glasner and Sue Hol shared a $1 million MAXMILLION prize. “So everyone was hesitant to believe the win.” Once she presented the ticket to the group, the $1 million prize began to sink

equipment and education savings. The ticket was purchased at the Shell gas station on Ladner Trunk Road.

Collins and her co-workers claimed one of eight winning MAXMILLIONS throughout Canada from the March 7 draw.

Southlands plan to go to regional hearing Metro board gives preliminary approval to application to amend Regional Growth Strategy BY

SANDOR GYARMATI

sgyarmati@delta-optimist.com

The Southlands development proposal cleared another major hurdle last Friday when the Metro Vancouver board granted it preliminary approval. Regional directors agreed to give first reading to the application, sending it to what could be another lengthy public hearing. “I’m glad the whole board is going to hear this proposal. I think they’re very interested in it and it makes a lot of sense,” Century Group president Sean Hodgins told the Optimist following the decision. The proposal received approval from Delta coun-

cil last fall after a five-day public hearing. The municipality then made an application to the regional district to amend the Regional Growth Strategy, which would require a two-thirds weighted vote by the board of directors. Century Group is proposing to build 950 housing units on 20 per cent of the 214-hectare (537-acre) Tsawwassen property. The remaining 80 per cent would be given to Delta, much of it for farming. Last Friday, Delta’s chief administrative officer, George Harvie, made a presentation to the board, saying covenants will provide certainty, including ensuring the land turned over to Delta remains as farmland.

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He welcomed Metro to be part of those covenants. Southlands the Facts spokesperson Richard Kunz also made a presentation. He told the board the application doesn’t comply with Regional Growth Strategy goals and that there is sufficient space for additional

housing elsewhere in Delta. Saying the majority of Tsawwassen residents remain opposed, Kunz also submitted a report outlining many other reasons why Metro should reject the application. Richmond Coun. Harold Steves, who was the lone

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Century Group president Sean Hodgins (second from left) flanked by supporters.

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director to vote in opposition, said the site formerly known as the Spetifore lands had been a successful farm before the previous owner decided to develop. Saying regional strategic goals would be met, Delta Mayor Lois Jackson said the Century proposal is unlike previous development attempts that would have covered almost the entire site. Most of the Metro Vancouver directors who spoke last Friday agreed the application had merit and the district should hear what the public has to say. Anticipating a potentially lengthy hearing, they also agreed to get a date and venue announced as soon as possible.

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Boyd Ivens (second from left) with his son Tim Ivens, granddaughter Monique Ivens and daughter Beth Ivens on his birthday last year.

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JESSICA KERR

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South Delta lost a prominent member of the community last week in a tragic auto accident. Boyd Ivens, 88, was killed Friday afternoon after he was hit by an SUV while crossing 56th Street at 9th Avenue in his motorized scooter. Police said the driver attempted to administer first aid immediately but Ivens died later in hospital. Police had 56th Street closed for several hours as officers investigated the incident. The distraught driver stayed at the scene and is cooperating with police. A former lawyer, Ivens opened a practice, Ivens and Ivens, in 1952 in Ladner with his older brother Herb. The pair later opened separate firms, however kept the Ivens and Ivens moniker. “It’s kind of an end of an era with the passing of Boyd,” said Ulf Ottho, who met Ivens in 1974 when he articled for Herb Ivens before joining the firm a year later. While his brother was often in the courtroom, Ivens stuck more to business and corporate law, wills and estates. He

continued practicing in Tsawwassen until his retirement in the late 1990s. “Boyd was a good solicitor... he was a steady, always calm and thoughtful solicitor,” Ottho said. “He was one of those guys who never said a bad word about anybody.” A long-time South Delta resident, Ivens enjoyed sharing tidbits of information about the area’s past. “He was a fountain of knowledge of local history,” said friend Graham Mallett. The two had known each other for several years and were both founding members of the Tsawwassen Rotary Club in 1992. Mallett regularly drove Ivens to the Thursday morning Rotary meetings. “He was such a gentleman, always. His manners were impeccable,” Mallett said. Even as he aged, Ivens remained an active Rotarian. “He attended virtually every meeting,” said president Peter Dandyk. “The whole club has really reacted to his passing... Our club is very much a family and Boyd was certainly a key part of that,” Dandyk. Ivens was predeceased by his wife Muriel (Murry) in 2011. He is survived by his sons Tim and Bill, and daughters Penny and Beth.

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DO YOU HAVE OPTIONS? Many hearing clinics in the Lower Mainland only carry hearing aids from one manufacturer. At Tsawwassen Hearing Centre, we are proud to carry hearing products from Starkey, Siemens, Widex, Phonak, Oticon & Unitron.

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This ensures our customers get the right hearing aids for their needs at the right price. We maintain a low-price guarantee, beating any advertised price by 5%.

B.C. Assessment is using a specially-equipped van to take photos of every house in Delta.

• Visible signage on a residence (excluding street address), including business signs, signs with the names of the people living at that property and any other type of signage that may relate to the identity of a person. This includes vehicle licence plates. • The interior of a residence (e.g., images that show the inside of a home through a window or open doorway or the interior of a garage).

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Digital cameras mounted inside a specially-equipped van are currently on the residential streets of Delta as B.C. Assessment uses innovation to update photos used for property assessment purposes. The residential photo update initiative will take street front digital photos of approximately 25,900 single-family homes in Delta followed by 29,600 in Richmond. The process began last week. This technology has already been successfully used throughout much of Metro Vancouver, the Fraser Valley, the Okanagan,

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Delta South MLA Vicki Huntington was quick to condemn changes announced for the Agricultural Land Reserve and the commission tasked with protecting it, saying the Liberal government is intent on steamrolling the reserve. “Without consultation, this government has introduced legislation to remove 90 per cent of B.C.’s farmland from the ALC’s independent mandate to protect farmland and farming,” said Huntington. Part of its Core Review, the province announced changes last Thursday to the Agricultural Land Commission as well as the Agricultural Land Reserve. The reserve is to be split into two zones: a South Coast zone and one for the northern regions of the province. It’s the northern region that will now be open for development, Huntington said, noting the ALC would be stuffed with government appointees and forced to allow exemptions based on non-agricultural arguments made by developers or municipal politicians. “This is an Orwellian change, it’s deceitful and it’s a betrayal of the public trust,” Huntington said. “Government says they support protecting farmland,

FILE PHOTO

Delta South MLA Vicki Huntington spoke at a rally against changes to the ALR in front of the legislature earlier this year. but they tell the ALC to discount its value. This government says they support an independent ALC, yet it is mandating the ALC to do precisely what it was originally created to stop. “The role of the ALC is to protect agricultural land, and to do so in an independent way that is immune from the short-term pressures that have historically driven land-use decision making in this province.” Farmland advocates have voiced suspicions about the government’s intentions, fearing things could be easier for industries, such as the oil and gas sector, to access ALR-protected farmland. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, farmland in the South Coast, Okanagan and Vancouver Island regions will remain unchanged because while those areas comprise only 10 per cent

of land in the ALR, they generate 85 per cent of total farm sales. “We are, however, open to discussing with the ALC, agricultural sector and Union of British Columbia Municipalities whether regulations should be updated to help farmers grow their farm businesses,” the ministry stated. “For example, some say the rules around processing what’s grown on the land restricts them from actually producing more food. We’re open to further conversation because we think this could be good for agriculture and food security.” Noting the other 90 per cent of the ALR only generates 15 per cent of B.C.’s total agricultural sales, the ministry says it’s giving the ALC more flexibility to consider non-agricultural home-based businesses that might help farmers subsidize their operations.

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No changes in works for South Coast zone of ALR, according to minister BY

SANDOR GYARMATI

sgyarmati@delta-optimist.com

South Delta farmland remains protected following changes introduced for the Agricultural Land Commission, according to the provincial government. The province announced last Thursday proposed changes not only for the commission, which reportedly will remain a fully independent tribunal and decision-maker that makes final decisions on specific land uses within the Agricultural Land Reserve, but the ALR as well, which will be split into two zones. It comes as a result of the government’s Core Review of services. To better recognize the province’s regional differences, a new zone has been created that includes South Delta and the rest

of the South Coast. For this new zone “where land is in greater demand and there are development and population pressures, ALC decisions will continue to be made on the basis of the original principle of preserving agricultural land.” The other zone will include the Interior, Kootenay and northern regions. For that zone “where growing seasons are shorter and there are lower value crops, ALC decisions will now, in addition to the original principle, include additional considerations to provide farmers with more flexibility to support their farming operations.” Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations Steve Thomson, speaking on behalf of Agriculture Minister Pat Pimm, told the Optimist there are no changes for

the South Coast zone, other than certain processes will be formalized. “This formalizes the existing model of the regional panels in terms of decision making. That’s an existing process with an existing structure, but what we’re doing is formalizing that legislation, making sure those regional panels are fully operational and the decisions are made by the panels for the regions,” explained Thomson. “It doesn’t change the legislation at all in that if the (ALC) chair feels if the panels are not operating consistently with the objectives and purposes of the commission, the chair can then elevate those decisions up to the executive, which are the chairs of the panels, and have the decisions either confirmed, varied or changed,” he said.

Two years ago, Delta South MLA Vicki Huntington made public that an industrial consortium was behind the optioning of hundreds of acres of prime farmland in her community. Most of the option deals have been renewed. Huntington raised alarm the government was supportive of plans to industrialize South Delta’s farmland. However, Thomson said that’s not the case. “There was lots of speculation the legislation that we were going to bring in would weaken the decision making process, weaken the land commission. What we are saying is that’s incorrect,” he said. “Under the changes, the ALC will remain a fully independent tribunal decision maker, making the final decisions on land uses within the ALR.”

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Opinion Page Published every Wednesday & Friday by the Delta Optimist, a division of LMP Publication Limited Partnership #207 - 4840 Delta Street, Delta, BC V4K 2T6 Phone 604-946-4451 Fax 604-946-5680 www.delta-optimist.com Publisher: Alvin Brouwer abrouwer@ glaciermedia.ca

Too little, too late for offenders

General Manager: Dave Hamilton dhamilton@ delta-optimist.com Distribution: 604-942-3081 distribution@delta-optimist. com Classified: 604-630-3300 Fax: 604-630-4500 classifieds@van.net Editor: Ted Murphy editor@ delta-optimist.com Sports: Mark Booth mbooth@ delta-optimist.com Reporters: Sandor Gyarmati sgyarmati@ delta-optimist.com Dave Willis dwillis@ delta-optimist.com Jessica Kerr jkerr@ delta-optimist.com Photographer: Gord Goble ggoble@ delta-optimist.com Sales Representatives: John Gallinger jgallinger@ delta-optimist.com Ruth VanBruksvoort rbruks@ delta-optimist.com Features Manager: Bob Ferguson bferguson@ delta-optimist.com Office Manager: Trish Factor pfactor@ delta-optimist.com Sales Support: Linda Calendino lcalendino@ delta-optimist.com Canadian Publications Agreement #212490

CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2012

Wednesday’s circulation is 16,493 Friday’s circulation is 16,943 This paper is made of 40% recycled newsprint and printed using vegetable inks

The Delta Optimist is a member of the British Columbia Press Council, a self-regulatory body governing the province’s newspaper industry. The council considers complaints from the public about conduct of member newspapers. Directors oversee the mediation of complaints, with input from both the newspaper and complainant. If talking with the editor or publisher of this newspaper does not resolve your complaint about coverage or story treatment, you may contact the B.C. Press Council. Your written concern, with documentation, should be sent to B.C. Press Council, 201 Selby Street, Nanaimo, B.C., V9R 2R2. For further information, go to www.bcpresscouncil.org

TED MURPHY

MURPHY’S LAW The number is so startling, so glaringly obvious that it would seem inconceivable for the powers that be not to take action. Delta police Chief Jim Cessford has done some tremendous research with regards to chronic offenders, many of whom suffer from mental health and addiction issues. The number that jumped off the page when it came to Cessford’s report is the fact that about 45 per cent of all calls Delta police officers respond to involve a person with some kind of mental health issue. That’s an absolutely staggering figure, one that demands our catch-and-release justice system to sit up and take notice. When almost half the calls involve people with mental health or addiction issues, it begs the question: Are they committing crimes because they’re career criminals that can’t be rehabilitated or simply because they’re not receiving adequate treatment for their conditions? I suspect it’s the latter in the vast majority of cases, yet for some reason we continue to engage them at the wrong end of the system. It’s an enormous waste of police resources to deal with matters that, while criminal in nature, are only happening because of underlying conditions. We’re turning beat cops into addiction counsellors and therapists, tasked with trying to help people that desperately require assistance from our health system, not its justice counterpart. That’s not to suggest those who commit crimes shouldn’t be held responsible for their actions, but this perpetual cycle of catching and releasing offenders, only to have them re-offend with alarming frequency, clearly isn’t working. This reactionary approach puts resources in the wrong places and asks the wrong people to deal with the problem. Thankfully it appears Cessford’s report is making some inroads with both policing and local government organizations. Delta officials met with Attorney General Suzanne Anton late last month to further the cause, hopeful that resources will be re-allocated to programs that deal with root causes. It stands to reason that if many of these chronic offenders received the necessary treatment, they would cease to be chronic offenders. That wouldn’t be the case for everyone, obviously, but intervening where it would actually do some good, rather than after the fact, would undoubtedly whittle those numbers down substantially. Let’s hope the powers that be come to that conclusion.

Ladner heron well ‘liked’ on Facebook and in real world CORRY ANDERSONFENNELL

COMMUNITY COMMENT There are lots of herons in Ladner, some more likable than others. In the latter category is the one who sits on top of my roof and oozes his mark all along the top and side of the house. But in the former category is the only heron in the world with his own Facebook page, a giant wardrobe for every occasion and the admiration of an entire community. And that’s the stoic creature fastened to the Welcome to Ladner sign near the corner of Ladner Trunk Road and Highway 17. Locals will be familiar with this heron’s impressive fashion sense, from his recent green and shiny attire to commemorate St. Patrick’s Day to the stork-style hammock holding a little nestling that swung on his beak marking Family Day. The Ladner Heron — a true Vancouver Canucks fan — even paid tribute to beloved goalie Roberto Luongo when the shamefully treated netminder was traded

to Florida. Our heron put on a Canucks jersey, picked up a hockey stick and stood next to a sign that said, “Bye Bye Bobby Lu.” Who knew he could write? When the Ladner heron isn’t honouring a special day, his own natural beauty simply shines through to distinguish our welcome sign from those in Tsawwassen and North Delta. Being an intrepid columnist, I decided to ask the Ladner heron why he does what he does, and sent him a message on Facebook. He pecked a response right away: “It’s been an absolute delight to bring joy to our residents via Facebook. When the old ‘Welcome to Ladner’ sign was taken down and the community rallied to bring back the heron, it showed how it’s an important part of how we see ourselves as Ladnerites. We appreciate all our wildlife, herons included, and love to show this by personalizing our mascot.” True, the municipality really fowled up by removing the old wooden heron sign in 2010, and it was only by residents squawking about it that the heron’s place at the entrance to our town was restored. If my research is correct, the original heron was named Fred and was painted in 2005 by local artist Luis Wiechers. Fred stood for more than five years, until the municipality decided to sanitize Delta’s wel-

The Optimist encourages readers to write letters to the editor. Letters are accepted on any topic, although preference is given to those on local matters. The Optimist reserves the right to edit letters and the decision to publish is at the discretion of the editor or publisher. All letters must be signed, dated and include the writer’s phone number

come efforts with identical, bland, corporate-style signs. This sent Ladner residents into a flap, and their letters to the editor in the Delta Optimist at the time didn’t mince words: “The heron has been a welcoming sign to Ladner for many years, at least 20 to my knowledge. It has been replaced by what looks like a tombstone,” wrote Harry Seddon. “Three words that come to mind immediately are dull, cold and boring,” echoed Christine Conroy. Delta rightly revamped the sign in response to the complaints, and today’s sculpted heron was hatched. This version, though, has a personality unlike his predecessor, reflective, I suspect, of the individual or group of folks who work exceptionally hard making him the darling he has become. If you want to return the favour, the heron has a request of his community: to reach 500 “likes” on Facebook by Easter. Visit facebook.com/ LadnerHeron. Here, you can also engage in conversation with other Ladner heron fans, all of whom agree Ladner and its heron go together like popcorn and movies, Bonnie and Clyde, and shoe repair/ key-cutting services. Finally, a heartfelt thank-you to all those who work behind the scenes spreading happiness via heron.

(not for publication). The Optimist will not print “name withheld” letters. Copyright in letters and other materials submitted voluntarily to the publisher and accepted for publication remains with the author, but the publisher and its licensees may freely reproduce them in print, electronic or other forms.

April 2, 2014 The Delta Optimist A9 Letters to the Editor

District employee doesn’t share Southlands stance

Editor: Re: District defends Southlands stance, March 26 I am infuriated with the letter that Delta school board chair Laura Dixon wrote to Metro Vancouver endorsing the Southlands application. As a resident of Tsawwassen, a vocal opponent of paving over agricultural land and a Delta school district employee, I am greatly disturbed that Dixon has submitted this letter to make it appear as if all members of the school district are in agreement with her endorsement. It has been made very clear that the majority of residents oppose this development and to have a school trustee and school district voice their opinion as if they were speaking for “all of us” seems to be out

of a school district’s mandate. How can a school trustee support paving over farmland? Does Dixon not read the daily news about the urgency to preserve all farmland? Is she not aware of the drought in California, the difference of acceptable farming practices in foreign countries, the need for countries to feed their own? Is Dixon aware of the dangers of building homes on a floodplain? And whatever happened to trustees standing up and defending the hundreds of children who now must attend every day of their high school life in proximity to extra high voltage power lines that conduct enough electricity to light up over 700,000 homes and buildings. Dixon may be wondering why there is declining

enrollment. Perhaps she should look up and see the massive lines and wonder if this is why families do not want to send their children to this school. While she is researching saving farmland, I would also suggest she pour hundreds of hours into researching the dangers of power lines and schools, such as I did during the power line struggle in Tsawwassen. Dixon does not speak for me and should resign her post as a school trustee immediately. Perhaps if she put her energy into having the power lines removed and developing land that is not farmland, she could address the declining enrollment problem. Heather Colls MAPP — Mothers Against Power Poles

Minister says Delta classes not bulging Editor: Re: Classes bulge with students needing extra support, March 26 I’m writing in response to the article that discussed class composition challenges in the Delta school district. Far from “bulging with students needing extra support,” the number of students with special needs in Delta has remained stable over the past five years from 2,237 in 2009-10 to 2,151 in 2013-14. As well, over the same time period, there are 295 more classes

with an educational assistant. Class composition can sometimes be a challenge, but it’s a school district’s responsibility to manage the number of teachers hired and assigned to classes. Districts also determine how many students with special needs are in each class. Superintendents work with principals and vice principals to ensure these decisions best meet the needs of all students in a district. At the same time, we recognize that classroom com-

position challenges require ongoing support, and that’s why government created the Learning Improvement Fund. It provides $75 million in additional funding each year to address complex classroom needs and support flexible learning environments. This year, the Delta school district is receiving $1.6 million through the fund, and next year the district is estimated to receive more than $2 million. Peter Fassbender Minister of Education

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Only safety issue on SFPR is speeding trucks

Editor: Re: Delta pushing for SFPR signs, March 21 I must say to get something done in this province sure takes a long time. I wrote Delta council about this issue over a month ago and still nothing has been done about the signs. The Ministry of Transportation tells taxpay-

ers it is for safety reasons that truckers use these types of brakes. I live at the corner of River Road and Center Street in North Delta and let me tell you I hear truckers using these types of brakes all day and all night long along this flat stretch of road. Where is the safety issue here? The speed limit is 80

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Letters to the Editor

Donors leaving items outside shop’s fence could be fined

Editor: Hospice Cottage Charity Shoppe in Tsawwassen is concerned that people dropping off donations could receive costly fines if goods are left outside the closed fence. The installation of a fence across the back of the property was required because of the people who abused the system by dropping off garbage and items that were broken or not saleable. This repeated dumping was not respectful to the volunteers and was becoming a high cost to the society to dispose of the garbage. However, many donors do not realize that goods left outside the fence are on the street, which is civic property and is unsafe for traffic. This is no different than dropping goods on any neighbourhood street. The Corporation of Delta has a requirement to keep all streets safe and unobstructed. As there is a cost to the municipality to dispose of items on streets,

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Goods left beyond the fence are on the street. it passes on this cost to per- leaving goods on the road. If the fence is closed, it sons it can identify. may also mean donations A sign is posted on the have exceeded the ability shop’s fence indicating the of volunteers to manage the area is under surveillance and people will be prosecut- goods on that particular day. Some donors become very ed. If they drop off goods angry and call the volunand the gate is closed, they teers nasty names. Please be could be charged a $450 fine as well as a fine to dis- respectful and understand these volunteers are your pose of the goods. friends and neighbours. There is a new sign now All profits from the posted beside the surveilHospice Cottage Charity lance sign that tells donors Shoppe support equipment about the fee. While the and services provided at no fence was to reduce the cost for people living with inconsiderate people who cancer or other serious illused the shop as a way to ness, are dying and who are dispose of their garbage, we do not want anyone who grieving a loss from death. Nancy Macey generously drops off donaExecutive Director tions to be fined because Delta Hospice Society they do not realize they are

April 2, 2014 The Delta Optimist A11 Opinion

Trash this recycling plan

The B.C. government is trying to fix something that isn’t broken — and it’s making a mess in the process. Cities and towns in B.C. have successful recycling systems in place, but the province has thrown everything into confusion by mandating creation of a monster called MultiMaterials B.C. Since MMBC began ramping up, one protest has followed another, as municipalities and businesses began to realize the effects it would have on them. Premier Christy Clark has called the creation of the new organization a “bumpy road.” Business groups across the province have allied under the banner Rethink It B.C. to demand the government delay implementation and sit down to talk about changes to the new entity. MMBC was created after the government changed the provincial recycling regulations in 2011 so that responsibility for recycling packaging and printed paper moved from municipalities to the industries that produced the material. The theory is the companies that profit from products that produce waste should have to pay the cost of recycling that material. Proponents say the added

cost will also be an incentive for those companies to reduce the amount of packaging they use. B.C. picked MMBC as the organization to manage the new program, beginning May 19. It will be funded by fees collected from companies that use packaging or create printed paper, instead of being funded by municipalities.

About 85 per cent of all newspaper in B.C. is recycled, and municipalities generate revenue from it because it is the most valuable recycled material. The province has already responded to the horrified outcry from small businesses and exempted them from paying fees to MMBC if their revenues are below $1 million a year, they produce less than a tonne of packaging each year or they are single outlets. That excludes the majority of businesses, but means the remaining ones — and their customers — will have to foot the bill. MMBC’s fees will be much higher than those in other regions. For instance, newspapers would have to pay 20 cents per kilogram,

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compared to 0.42 cents in Ontario. Corrugated cardboard would be charged 29 cents per kilogram, compared to 8.4 cents in Ontario. Newsprint is already the most successfully recycled product in the system. About 85 per cent of all newspaper in B.C. is recycled, and municipalities generate revenue from it because it is the most valuable recycled material. Newspapers are among the industries most worried about the new system. Peter Kvarnstrom, chairman of the Canadian Newspaper Association, warned the added costs are so significant to an industry that is already fragile they will force layoffs in newsrooms across the province. B.C.-based magazines will be penalized because they will have to pay for recycling, while international publications that are printed elsewhere and shipped to the province, pay nothing. In essence, a B.C. magazine will be subsidizing Vanity Fair. Everyone, including the critics of MMBC, can get behind the idea of reducing waste. But the province needs to listen to Rethink It B.C.’s call for solutions to very serious concerns. Article courtesy of Victoria Times Colonist.

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A12 The Delta Optimist April 2, 2014 Business

Hiring outlook good in Delta

Realtors on the move! PHOTO BY

JESSICA KERR

After 25 years in the same location, the RE/MAX Progroup Realty office in Ladner was on the move last week. The office, which boasts 30 real estate agents and 49 per cent of all real estate business in South Delta, packed up Friday afternoon for the move to its new location on 12th Avenue in Tsawwassen. However, RE/ MAX Progroup Realty hopes to open a satellite location in Ladner in the future.

FortisBC president to address chamber luncheon The Delta Chamber of Commerce presents an After 5 Business Social at Tilbury Sports Grill next week. The socials provide a “relaxed and informal opportunity” for chamber members to get to know each other and their guests.

“There’s time for networking; an opportunity to learn from other like-minded businesses throughout Delta; while enjoying some fine hospitality thanks to our venue sponsor,” states the chamber website. The event takes place on Monday, April 7 from 5 to 7

p.m. Tilbury Sports Grill is at 7187 Vantage Way. Admission is $10 for one person, $15 for two, $20 for three and $25 for four. Register at deltachamber. ca. • FortisBC president and CEO John Walker will be the guest speaker

at a chamber luncheon on Wednesday, April 16. FortisBC is applying to expand its Tilbury liquefied natural gas storage facility. The luncheon is set for Wednesday, April 16 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Delta Town & Country Inn. It costs $35 for cham-

ber members and $45 for non-members. Register at deltachamber. ca. • The chamber has a free one-hour member orientation session scheduled for Thursday, April 24 at noon the chamber office. Register at deltachamber.ca.

Delta and Richmond area employers are expecting a steady hiring climate for the second quarter of 2014, according to the latest employment outlook survey from Manpower. “Survey data reveals that 17 per cent of employers plan to hire for the upcoming quarter (April to June), while none anticipate cutbacks,” said Jeff Polkinghorne of Manpower’s Vancouver office. Another 80 per cent of employers plan to maintain current staffing levels in the upcoming quarter, while three per cent are unsure. With seasonal variations removed, the area’s 16 per cent net employment outlook is a 10 per cent increase over last quarter’s forecast. “It is a three percentage point decrease compared to the outlook reported during the same time last year, but still indicates a respectable hiring pace for the upcoming months,” Polkinghorne said.

April 2, 2014 The Delta Optimist A13 Coming Events Clubs & Groups !Golfers: New members welcome to the Tsawwassen Mens’ Golf Club for an exciting season beginning April 1 continuing until Sept. 30 for play every Tuesday at King’s Links Golf Course. Tee times start at 12:30 p.m. For info contact Doug at 604-940-0770 and/or visit the website www.tmgc.ca. !Canadian Mental Health Association Delta offers an Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) group for individuals with OCD and/or friends and family. The group meets on the first Wednesday of every month 7 to 9 p.m., 1171572nd Ave., North Delta (house). Next meeting is on Wednesday, April 2. Call CMHA Delta for info at 604-943-1878. !Understanding Dementia, Communication and Behaviour, Alzheimer Society of B.C. workshop, April 5, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Augustine House, 3820 Arthur Dr. Pre-registration required. Krista Frazee, 604-238-7390, kfrazee@alzheimerbc.org. !Citizens Against Port Expansion are holding a public information meeting about T2 at Robert’s Bank on Saturday, April 5 between 2 - 4 p.m. at the Sundance Inn, 6574 Ladner Trunk Rd. Speakers include Dr. Marvin Rosenau & Dr. Mary Taitt. !The Tsawwassen Tuesday Ladies Golf Club is welcoming new members for the 2014 season. We will be playing at Kings Links golf course. For information contact Pat at 604-531-5003 or Nancy at 604-943-2807. !This is the year to try lawn bowling - a sport for all ages. The Ladner Lawn Bowling Club (opposite the McKee Seniors Recreation Centre) is holding an open house for two days: Saturday, April 5 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and Sunday, April 6 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) Club members and coaches will be there to show you the basics of the game and answer questions. For more information contact Barb Sutton (604-940-8243) or Bob Maxwell (604-9462339). !A Paterson Park public forum will be held Saturday, April 5 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Kinsmen House, 5050-47th Ave., Ladner (next to the library). This is the second of three public forums held for the Delta

public to explore the various options and opportunities for Paterson Park. The topic of this forum will be Mixed Rental and Owned Housing. Contact: lynw@ deltassist.com (604-9469526). !The Delta Chamber of Commerce presents an After 5 Business Social on Monday, April 7 at Tilbury Sports Grill, 7187 Vantage Way. Register at deltachamber.ca. !Minimizing Taxes and Maximizing Wealth, will be at the Tsawwassen Library, 1321A - 56th St. Sheila Whitehead will be offering tax-smart investment ideas and strategies on Tuesday, April 8, from 3 - 4 p.m. !Canadian Mental Health Association Delta offers a Family Support Group for individuals supporting someone with a mental illness. The group meets on the second and fourth Wednesday every month 7 to 9 p.m. Next meeting takes place on Wednesday, April 9 at Delta Hospital, 5800 Mountain View Blvd., Ladner (education room). !To learn more about lawn bowling and/or to sign up for lessons, come on Saturday, April 12, between noon and 2 p.m. to an open house at the Tsawwassen Lawn Bowling Club. The clubhouse and green are located on the north side of Winskill Park beside the artificial turf playing field. Club members and coaches will be on hand to welcome you, to answer any questions, and to share with you their enthusiasm for Bowls. Parking is accessed from 56th St. and is behind the Tsawwassen Medical Building. Come rain or shine. !You are invited to attend the Low Vision Support Group at Ladner Library on Monday, April 14 at 1:30 p.m. to hear Bernice, from McKee Seniors’ Recreation Centre, talk about the benefits of exercise. !The South Delta Evergreen Garden Club April meeting speaker is Les Clay, president of the Azalea and Rhododendron Society’s’ Vancouver chapter, nursery owner and gardening educator. The meeting is at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 15 at Kin House in Ladner - next to the Ladner Library. The monthly education talk offered by the Club is open to the public. For more info, please contact Terry Findlay at tafindlay@dccnet.com.

!Fortis BC president and CEO John Walker is the guest speaker at a Delta Chamber of Commerce luncheon Wednesday, April 16 at the Delta Town & Country Inn from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Cost is $35 for members, $45 for non-members. Register at deltachamber.ca. Seniors !Come join the Philosophers’ Café discussion this Friday, April 4 (one week earlier than originally scheduled), 1:30-3 p.m. at the McKee Seniors Centre, 5155-47th Ave., Ladner, where we’ll be exploring the interesting and controversial topic of euthanasia. Jim Stephenson of Dying With Dignity, Canada, will be a resource person as we discuss whether or not we should have control over our own dying. No pre-registration necessary. Call 604-946-1411 for further information. Fund Raisers !A burger/beer or wine fundraiser for United Entertainers Society takes place Saturday, April 12 at 6 p.m. at the Sundance Pub, 6574 Ladner Trunk Rd. Silent auction, door prizes, karaoke at 9 p.m. Tickets are $15 per person. For more info call Vann at 604946-9224 or email bbesth@ yahoo.com. Special Events !A book sale will be held Saturday, April 5, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. at South Delta Recreation Centre. Stock up on some gently used children’s Books at the Children’s Swap Meet. !ElderCollege has free special feature presentations at Cedar Park Church in April. On April 12 (2 to 4 p.m.) we present “The Best Bad Idea: The True Story of Argo” with Mark and Cora Lijek, and on April 29 (7 to 8:30 p.m.) we present “The Urban Food Revolution: Changing the Way Cities Feed Themselves” with Peter Ladner. Advance registration is appreciated by phoning 604-943-0262 to leave your name and phone number. The Coming Events column is published every Wednesday as a community service. If you have a nonprofit event, mail, drop off, fax, or e-mail (events@ delta-optimist.com) the details to the Optimist by 3 p.m. Monday. Submissions are subject to space limitations (no phone calls, please).

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A14 The Delta Optimist April 2, 2014

WEAK CORE, SORE BACK, FEELING TIGHT?

Cluttered curbs prove profitable for scavengers PHOTO BY

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Scavengers were out in force over the weekend and into the early part of the week in advance of the annual Spring Clean-Up. They plucked items off the curb before garbage trucks rolled through Tsawwassen on Monday and Ladner yesterday.

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Tough to get wardrobe to keep up with the season

Shift to spring difficult for those with style challenges BARBARA GUNN

LIVING MATTERS Now that spring’s been here for a few days, it’s time to do the obvious: switch up the wardrobe. That is — if you know how to do it. My mother always has. She makes the seasonal fashion shift several times each year. She not only tucks away the heavy coat and scarves, but the dark pants and blouses and purses. She’ll bring out the beige handbag. The floral sweaters. The pastel blazer. The tan-coloured slacks. I think she also changes the earrings. Me? Not so much. But then, I have always been — how shall I say this? — the slightest bit challenged with style. I do not organize the contents of my closet into sea-

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sonal sub-sections that say winter, spring, summer and fall. In my closet, winter rubs shoulders with summer, and fall intermingles with spring. “Does this look OK?” I asked the husband a couple of days ago. I was about to head to work. The husband looked up from his newspaper. “What?” he asked. “The hair?” “No!” I said. “The clothing! Are these pants too November? Does the scarf scream winter or is it OK for spring?” The husband pondered the question. “I have no idea,” he said. “What are November pants anyway?” The husband, let’s just say, is no seasonal style meister either. Were he inclined to carry a handbag, I’m sure his would still be brown. I understand, of course, that fur-lined boots aren’t April appropriate, any more than shorts are suited to December. But beyond that,

I’m not really sure of the rules. Martha Stewart would know, of course. In fact, I’m quite sure that if I checked in on YouTube, I’d stumble upon some Martha Stewart instructional video in which she’d tell me what colours and styles are seasonally de rigueur. In addition, I’m betting she’d demonstrate some imaginative way of using colour-coded wicker boxes, clothes hangars and shoe trees to ensure that the unthinkable — donning January clothes in May — would never, ever happen. Alas. I do not have the time — or the inclination — to hunt down Martha’s video, let alone those wicker boxes. As it is, I have barely enough time in the morning to reach into the dark depths of my disorganized closet and yank out something to wear. If it isn’t fitting for April, I could probably use a hand. I’m not going to listen to Martha, though. But I may just call my mom.

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April 2, 2014 The Delta Optimist A15

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New tier provided no help to Pacers Earning provincial tournament berth may now be an even greater challenge for DSS senior boys basketball program MARK BOOTH

Now that the dust has settled from B.C. high school boys basketball’s inaugural season with a revamped tiering structure, the task ahead for the Delta Pacers to contend for future provincial berths appears to be an immense one. While the introduction of a 4A tier benefitted a number of schools, the Pacers certainly weren’t among them. Delta began the year as a preseason ranked team but quickly learned how deep the competition would be in the extremely tough Fraser Valley zone. With a roster that featured provincial U17 team post Ryan Cowley and talented seniors Andrew Jones and Bowen Bakken, the Pacers finished third in league play and would go on to bow out in the second round of the Fraser Valley playoffs to Gleneagle. To earn their just their second B.C. tourney berth in 21 years, Delta would have had to knock off three top 10 ranked schools. In total, the Valley zone featured seven ranked teams yet only

offered five provincial spots. Of the 68 4A tiered schools in the province, DSS ranks in the bottom third of enrolment numbers with 295 male students in Grades 11 and 12. Twenty less students and the Pacers not only would have been classified as a 3A school, they would have been a legitimate provincial contender. Delta managed comfortable wins over Richmond’s McMath Wildcats and the Vernon Lakers. Both of those schools went on to earn B.C. 3A berths. The Pacers also finished third at the 16-team Chancellor Tournament — hosted by eventual 3A champion St. Thomas More. “That was considered the marquee tournament of the season for 3A schools and we nearly made it to the final,” said Pacers head coach Tim Whitehead. “That said, I don’t think we would have been as good as we were without playing some of those really strong (4A) schools on our schedule. “It’s super competitive right now and it’s going to be really tough to get in. But in my mind, it’s a real positive for high school basketball in B.C. to see so many good programs and just how

Tides at Tsawwassen Pacific Standard Time. Height in feet

much overall talent there is.” Delta will have a hard time matching their third place league finish next season. Provincial runner-up Tamanawis will be the team to beat again, while Panorama Ridge was second at the junior provincials. Earl Marriott will be another team to watch after its junior team eliminated DSS at the Valleys and lost by just 11 to Ridge in the quarter-finals. Whitehead says he intends on returning for his second-year with the senior program. He will have three players who saw significant playing time returning, including two starters. There is also the possibility of aging up a trio of juniors who helped Delta finish third at the Grade 8 provincials in 2013. Regardless of what’s ahead, Whitehead is quick to point out it’s not all about winning. “I had a great group of kids to work with and I really enjoyed it,” he said. “Sure you want to win, but high school basketball is more about enjoying the overall experience and developing the life skills that you will take PHOTO BY MARK BOOTH with you and make you a better Tim Whitehead plans to return as head coach of the Delta Pacers senior boys basperson.” ketball team next season but he won’t have graduating standout Ryan Cowley.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2

FRIDAY, APRIL 4

1:46 am 2:12 pm

3:31 am 3:37 pm

8.2 3.6

7:24 am 13.5 9:09 pm 13.5

9.5 3.9

SUNDAY, APRIL 6 8:30 am 12.5 11:06 pm 13.1

THURSDAY, APRIL 3

SATURDAY, APRIL 5

2:36 am 2:54 pm

4:36 am 10.2 4:22 pm 4.6

8.9 3.6

7:56 am 13.1 10:06 pm 13.5

9:05 am 11.8

12:07 am 13.1 9:45 am 11.2

5:58 am 10.2 5:11 pm 4.9

These predictions are supplements to and not replacements for the Canadian Tide and Current Tables, which include the only authorized tidal predictions for Canada and are provided by Canadian Hydrographic Service.

01046786

mbooth@delta-optimist.com

Delta Revolution Roller Hockey Tykes & Goalies WANTED! Ages 6-9 ( 2005-2009)

- Short- Season (Apr-June) Local Games with nonopractices Short Season (Apr-June)- ALL - ALL Local Games with practices - Non Contact League - New Players Welcome - Non Contact League - New Players Welcome - Goalies play for FREE So much skilllevels levels - Goalies play for FREE - So- much funfun forfor allall skill

Registration Extended! Closes April 4, 2014 see website for schedule & dues > > www.deltarevolution.com

A16 The Delta Optimist April 2, 2014

Live on the Edge! Try lawn bowling - a sport for all ages The Ladner Lawn Bowling Club invites you to its Open House on Saturday, April 5 (10:00pm-4:00pm) and on Sunday, April 6 (10:00pm-4:00pm) + Bowling all-year round on an all-season surface (e.g., Boxing Day Bowl-Out) + Social events throughout the year SUBMITTED PHOTO

South Delta Angry Mob rolled to five straight victories to capture the Pacific Coast Amatuer Hockey Asssociation’s Fraser Valley West Midget “C” playoff championship.

Mad Hatter Day!

Address: 5128 - 47th Ave. Delta, B.C. V4K 3N7

(Opposite McKee Recreational Centre)

If you are interested in learning about the game but are unable to come to either one of the Open House dates, please contact either

Barb Sutton (604-940-8243) or Bob Maxwell (604-946-2339)

Perfect run earns Angry Mob PCAHA Midget playoff banner South Delta Angry Mob finished off a strong season by capturing Pacific Coast Amateur Hockey Association’s Fraser Valley West Midget “C” playoff championship banner. The triumph followed their victory at the Lake Cowichan tournament in November. The Angry Mob began the round robin playoff series with a 6-3 road win in Surrey. The locals took their first lead on goals by Cory McIver and Brad Phillips. After falling behind 3-2 in the third period, a hat trick by Riley Taylor keyed a fourgoal explosion to give South Delta its first win. Thomas Costin had a strong game filling in on the blueline, while Kris Hothi earned the win in net. The Mob’s next game was at home against Semiahmoo, where South Delta took a 7-4 lead into the third period, but surrendered three quick goals. Pavel Dhah broke the deadlock three minutes later. Semiahmoo had a golden opportunity to tie the game following a scrum in the South Delta zone when the always-physical Tanner Dulko took exception to an opponent crashing the net. During the ensuing four-minute power play, superb penalty killing by Connor Duchek, Dhah and Taylor kept the Mob off the score sheet. South Delta added a late insurance goal and it would be needed in a wild 9-8 win. Jeremy Cook recorded the victory in net. South Delta met its stiffest test against Langley. Keyed by a 2011 WHL Bantam draft pick in their line-up, Langley opened up a 3-0 lead before the Mob pulled even on goals by Dhah, Taylor and Spencer Richardson.

South Delta would later erase a 4-3 deficit on a pair of goals in the final six minutes, including the winner by Will Robinson. Declan Bostock recorded the win in goal, while team captain Blair Wilson did a terrific job shutting down Langley’s top player after the score was 2-0. South Delta’s fourth game was at home against North Delta. The Mob took a 2-0 lead in the first period on goals by Richardson and Robinson. The hosts would later re-establish the two-goal lead on tallies from Dhah and Taylor. There was no scoring in the third period, primarily due to the defensive play of Richardson, Duchek, Cook and Matthew Berends, whose plus-two in the game raised his rating to plus-five over the last three games. The win gave South Delta a 40 record and clinched the playoff banner. The Angry Mob’s final game was against local rivals, the SD Energy. The Mob jumped out to a 4-0 first period lead on goals by Matt Lowe, Cook, and two from Liam Peake, who figured in on all four scoring plays. The Mob made it 5-0 in the second on a goal by Brett Bock. The Energy tried to mount a comeback with three goals in the third period, but the Mob got two more of their own in a 7-3 win. Hothi recorded his second victory of the playoffs. The South Delta Angry Mob are coached by Andrew Richardson, Doug McIver and Bernie Berends, while Laurel Richardson was team manager. Forward Graydon Policnick was unavailable for the post-season run after he sustained a season-ending injury in January.

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A20 The Delta Optimist April 2, 2014

valid all week, April 4th – 10th 915 to 930 g

Red Grapes

Product of Chile. No. 1 Grade.

Nabob Coffee

Assorted varieties. 915 to 930 g. LIMIT TWO - Combined varieties.

69 lb 5.93/kg

Lean Ground Beef

Fluff Style. LIMIT FOUR.

lb 5.49/kg

ea.

12 pack

600 to 700 g

Cracker Barrel Cheese

Assorted varieties. 600 to 700 g. LIMIT TWO - Combined varieties.

FOR

ea.

refreshe Water

12 pack. Plus deposit and/or enviro levy where applicable. LIMIT FOUR.

Grade “A” Turkeys

Under 7 kg. Frozen. LIMIT ONE with a minimum purchase of $50. Valid April 2 to April 10.

lb 2.18/kg

Fresh Chicken Breast Boneless. Skinless. LIMIT FOUR.

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

APRIL

ea.

Raspberries

Product of Mexico, U.S.A. 170 g. LIMIT FOUR.

2 Litre

ea.

AV AI

B LA

Signature CAFE Soup

Assorted varieties. 625 mL.

FRESH DA

Deli

ILY

Now it’s even easier to save at Safeway!

Coca-Cola or Pepsi Soft Drinks Assorted varieties. 2 Litre. Plus deposit and/or enviro levy where applicable. LIMIT TEN Combined varieties.

5 FOR

2 FOR

Safeway Kitchens Thick Sliced White Raisin Bread Or Whole Wheat. 570 g.

everybody gets our lowest price. every day. Safeway shoppers no longer need to use their club card to enjoy our lowest prices every day, in every department, in every aisle.

Prices effective at all British Columbia Safeway stores Friday, April 4 through Thursday, April 10, 2014 only. We reserve the right to limit sales to retail quantities. Some items may not be available at all stores. All items while stocks last. Actual items may vary slightly from illustrations. Some illustrations are serving suggestions only. Advertised prices do not include GST. ®™ Trademarks of AIR MILES International Trading B.V. Used under license by LoyaltyOne, Co. and Safeway. On BUY ONE GET ONE FREE items, both items must be purchased. Lowest priced item is then free. Online and in-store prices, discounts, and offers may differ.

APRIL 4

FRI

SAT

SUN

MON

TUE

WED

THU

Prices in this ad good through April 10th