Delta Optimist January 14 2015

Still searching

3

Delta looking for new police chief

Honouring Burns

Pipe band hosting pair of dinners

5

On the road back

In the Classroom Independents offer choice

11-15

Ladner pitcher recovering from Tommy John surgery

Optimist

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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2015

Hall hears plans for hospital

Holiday season ends in a pile of green!

BY

SANDOR GYARMATI

sgyarmati@delta-optimist.com

SCAN WITH TO REVEAL PHOTOS PHOTO BY

GORD GOBLE

Royal Wood Tree Care’s Isaac Andrew (left) and Nathan Spowage fed the chipper during the Lions Club Christmas tree chip at Memorial Park last weekend.

Actor looks to crash big game Ladner’s Keegan Turbitt stars in Doritos commercial in running for Super Bowl spot BY

DAVE WILLIS

dwillis@delta-optimist.com

Ladner’s Keegan Turbitt, 11, might get some TV airtime during the Super Bowl next month.

He has a role in one of the commercials, When Pigs Fly, that is among the top-10 finalists in the Doritos Crash the Super Bowl contest. Online voting is underway.

He plays a youngster who asks an adult for some Doritos but is told he can have some only when pigs fly. He sets out to work to make it happen, succeeds, and

Your local choice for auto glass!

gets the chips in the end.

Turbitt has had “It was fun,” said an agent for over a Turbitt, talking about what year, has taken actis was like working with ing lessons and has the pig used in the comdone a few other mercial. “But the pig was acting jobs so far. kind of sick at the time, so Brothers Nelson it was kind of hard to get and Graham Talbot him to eat the Doritos.” of Maple Ridge He’s watched the finmade the When Pigs Keegan Turbitt Fly commercial. ished commercial and says he thinks it turned out “This was the well. first time we had worked with “I like the editing,” he says.

Keegan and he did an amazing He says he’d be “really happy” job,” said Nelson in an email to if the commercial made it on air the Optimist. “We were a little during the Super Bowl. worried about working with a

younger SCAN WITH actor but Keegan was extremely TO REVEAL VIDEO mature and professional and pulled off the character perfectly.”

The grand prize winner is selected by voters’ choice while Doritos will pick another winner.

Both entries will be shown during the Super Bowl broadcast. The grand prize is $1 million and a “dream job” at Universal Pictures.

Check out www.doritos.com or vote4whenpigsfly.com.

Fraser Health officials met with Delta council members Monday to discuss Delta Hospital’s current and potential future role in the regional network, but nothing is being offered when it comes to the surgical unit.

Health region officials, accompanied by hospital administration, participated in an afternoon session at municipal hall, explaining the hospital’s current role as well as the planning priorities, which are still in draft form but could see facility upgrades and an expansion of services.

During council’s evening Sylvia Bishop meeting, Community Coun. forums needed Jeannie Kanakos noted they also discussed the hospital’s surgical unit, but nowhere in the long-range plan is there mention of restoring the unit to its previous level, nor has Fraser Health indicated it’s open to considering it.

Mayor Lois Jackson said the meeting was a lengthy one, lasting about two hours, and she found it “interesting and concerning.”

Council voted in favour of a motion by Coun. Sylvia Bishop to ask Fraser Health to hold community meetings and to also get a civic staff report, which could lead to further action by Delta.

See HOSPITAL page 3

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In Loving Memory

A2 The Delta Optimist January 14, 2015

Linda Tamara Ottho December 24, 1951 - January 8, 2015.

Survived by loving husband Ulf, her dear sons Aaron and Bryan, siblings Irene Kirk, Alex Kolodziejski and Valerie Heximer, as well as numerous nieces and nephews, loving relatives and cherished friends.

A celebration of life will be held for Linda on Saturday, January 17, 2015 at 11am at Cedar Park Church 5500 44th Street, Ladner. Reception to follow at Ladner Community Centre, 4734 51 Street, Delta.

Those we love remain with us for love itself lives on, and cherished memories never fade because a loved one’s gone.

Those we love can never be more than a thought apart.

For as long as there is memory, they’ll live on in our hearts.

In lieu of flowers, donations to BC Cancer Foundation at bccancerfoundation.com, REACH at reachdevelopment.org or Delta Foundation at deltacommunityfoundation.org would be greatly appreciated.

January 14, 2015 The Delta Optimist A3

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

What's Layared today "" Page 1 Check out a potential Super Bowl commercial starring a Ladner youngster.

Jim Cessford Police chief

Successor still must be found

"" Page 5 See a video of the Delta Police Pipe Band performing ahead of the annual Robbie Burns dinners later this month.

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.

PHOTO BY

SANDOR GYARMATI

A Tim Hortons franchise is being proposed for the lot adjacent to the Co-Op gas station on Ladner Trunk Road at 64th Street.

Tim’s coming to town

Proposal would see Canadian coffee giant locate franchise in East Ladner

Keeping South Delta informed in print since 1922, all the news, and more, is now at your fingertips any time online or on your smart phone at: www.delta-optimist.com

Follow the Optimist in the Twittersphere:

@DeltaOptimist @tedmurphydelta @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.

Check it out at www.delta-optimist.com

BY

SANDOR GYARMATI

sgyarmati@delta-optimist.com

Ladner could finally be home to a Tim Hortons if a proposal on the east side of Highway 17A receives approval.

Municipal hall is going over an application to build a Tim Hortons outlet in East Ladner, between the Co-Op gas station and Harris Nursery on Ladner Trunk Road.

The Canadian coffee giant has locations on 56th

Street in Tsawwassen and within a gas station at the junction of highways 10 and 99 in East Delta, but putting a franchise in Ladner has proven difficult due to a dearth of suitable sites.

The rezoning application by Southborough Investments Ltd. isn’t in Ladner’s business core, but the small lot next to the gas station could at least get Ladnerites a little closer to their double-doubles and Timbits.

The lot is part of the gas

HOSPITAL from page 1 Last fall, the Delta Hospital Medical Staff Association raised concerns about the surgical program, which does not operate at the same level as the other hospitals in the region.

In Delta, operating rooms close at 3 p.m., which means those who require urgent procedures are out of luck if they show up after hours or close to closing time. They have to be transferred to another hospital.

In a letter to Health Minister Terry Lake, the

doctors cited several examples of patients sent away for produces that could have easily been performed in Delta. Those patients are not getting the timely care by being transferred elsewhere, doctors said.

The doctors described the situation as “a crisis” and that the surgical program is in “imminent danger of imploding” because operating rooms aren’t available for emergency surgeries 24 hours a day like at other hospitals. They had

station’s property, which is why the application also involves a subdivision and setback variance request.

Noting nearby residents are still being notified, deputy community planning director Marcy Sangret said it’s still in the early days of the application, which must undergo a technical analysis and discussion at the civic advisory committee level before making its way to Delta council.

Sangret said the proposed coffee outlet would not be

a sit-down café but primarily a drive-thru with only a small area where people can order inside.

She said the application involves drivers accessing the site through the gas station, but those details still need to be worked out and reviewed by the engineering department.

Tim Hortons was recently purchased by Burger King in $12.5-billion transaction, but the Ladner application does not involve a restaurant that serves Whoppers.

a couple of meetings since raising their concern, but nothing was offered by the health region.

The newly formed citizens’ group Friends of Delta Hospital has also been lobbying for improved services and the group’s Doug Massey spoke at Delta council’s question period several weeks ago.

Friends of Delta Hospital recently issued a “summary document” aimed at highlighting the challenges the hospital currently faces.

Issued by group member Gord Freeborn, Delta’s former fire chief, the docu-

ment notes the communities of Delta and Tsawwassen First Nation want and need a fully functioning community-based hospital that can provide secondary care, as was provided up to the early part of the past decade.

According to the overview health officials provided council this week, Delta Hospital has 58 “acute care beds in medicine” as well other services, but in an interview last fall, one doctor noted those beds can’t really be described as acute.

Instead, they are more like rest beds for those coming out of day surgery.

Delta’s police chief is set to retire next month, however it will likely be several more months before a new chief is sworn in.

Mayor Lois Jackson said the municipality is close to making a decision on the company that will carry out the search after sending out a request for proposals.

“We’re moving ahead to make sure we leave no stone unturned,” Jackson said last week.

Chief Jim Cessford, who has been at the helm of the Delta Police Department since 1995, making him the longest serving police chief in the country, announced his retirement last September.

“This is a personal decision and after discussing it with my family, I feel it is a good time for me to move on,” Cessford said at the time. “The department is in a good place right now and we have an outstanding team ready to take on the challenge of leading the organization into the future.”

Jackson said the department’s two deputy chiefs, Lyle Beaudoin and Rich Drinovz, as well as other senior officers would take over the chief’s duties in the interim.

“I have no concerns about them filling in during this time of transition,” she said. “I think we’re in very good hands.”

Jackson said the search for, and hiring of, a new chief will take at least a couple months.

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The community lost a tireless advocate and volunteer last week with the passing of Linda Ottho.

She had been battling cancer and received good news from her oncologist in early December, however things took a turn for the worse over the holidays when she developed an infection.

Ottho died in the early morning hours of Jan. 8.

She had just celebrated her 63rd birthday on Christmas Eve. Born and raised on a farm in the Mansfield area of Ontario, about an hour north of Toronto, Ottho headed west and was living in Tsawwassen in the early 1970s when she met husband Ulf Ottho.

“I literally married the girl next door,” he said, adding she was living in the neighbouring house when he moved into a house in Tsawwassen.

Married for 34 years, the couple has two sons, Aaron and Bryan.

Ottho worked for many years as office manager for Ulf’s law practice at Delta Law Office in Ladner and began taking on more volunteering roles after his appointment to the National Parole Board.

A tireless volunteer, Ottho is being remembered by many for her contributions to the community.

She was actively involved with the Ladner Rotary Club for the past decade, serving as president in 2011. Most recently, she served as the club’s program officer, lining up weekly speakers.

“She was brilliant at it,” said president Patricia Sibley, adding the speaker is the biggest part of the meeting.

Sibley said that the club will keenly feel Ottho’s loss.

“I don’t know what I’m going to do without her,” she said.

Ottho was twice recognized for her SUBMITTED PHOTO contributions to Linda Ottho passed away last week at the Rotary, receivage of 63. ing two Paul Harris Fellow $4 million to build a comawards. The award is the munity-based centre in the highest honour a club can heart of Ladner. bestow on a person.

She was also a director She was involved in with the Delta Community many Rotary initiatives and Foundation, working to was instrumental in estabnot only fundraise but to lishing the Interact Club at allocate the money where Delta Secondary. needed.

Ottho was also heavily In recent years, Ottho involved in Rotary’s annual also advocated on behalf of fundraising calendar. A Century Group’s proposal joint effort between the two for the Southlands, which South Delta Rotary clubs, was ultimately approved the calendar features photo- last year. She presented a graphs of local scenes. petition in favour of the “That was Linda’s main proposal to Delta council at forte with the club,” Ulf a public hearing in 2013. said, adding the calendars In addition to her husraise thousands of dollars band and two sons, Ottho is for the clubs every year. survived by her two sisters Ottho also devoted her and one brother, as well as time to other local organinumerous nieces and nephzations. In 2013, she joined ews, relatives and friends. the Reach Child and Youth Funeral services are Development Society board scheduled for Saturday, Jan. of directors and was the 17 at 11 a.m. at Cedar Park chair of the Building for Church in Ladner.

Children Together in-kind In lieu of flowers, donafund building committee. tions can be made to the The society, which proB.C. Cancer Foundation, vides services to children Reach Child and Youth and youth with special Development Society or the needs, is aiming to raise Delta Hospital Foundation.

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January 14, 2015 The Delta Optimist A5

Pipe band set to pay tribute to Robbie Burns Tickets still available to one of two dinners honouring Scottish bard later this month at Sacred Heart in Ladner Tickets are still available for one of two Robbie Burns dinners the Delta Police Pipe Band is hosting later this month.

The dinners will be held on Friday, Jan. 23 and Saturday, Jan. 24 at Sacred Heart Church hall in Ladner. Tickets are still available for the Friday night dinner.

The 41st annual event will showcase the world renowned Delta Police Pipe Band and is considered the largest event of its kind in the world.

Tickets are $60 each and include a roast beef dinner with all the trimmings (including haggis!) and two hours of entertainment, including piping, highland dancing, singing and trib-

FILE PHOTO

The internationally-acclaimed Delta Police Pipe Band has been invited to perform at the Netherlands Military Tattoo in September. utes to Robert Burns. The Earthtones will finish off the night with music and dancing until the wee hours of the morning.

Besides the usual beer,

wine and spirits, there will also be a large Scotch bar available.

The Delta Police Pipe Band performs both locally and internationally, hav-

ing played in Scotland, Germany, Holland, France, Switzerland and across North America. The band is most famous for performing with Paul McCartney at

his concert in Vancouver in 2013.

The Robbie Burns dinners are an important fundraiser for the band as it will be attending the

Netherlands Military Tattoo in September to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the liberation of Holland by the Canadian army during the Second World War. It is quite an honour for the band to be chosen as the only pipe band to represent Canada at the prestigious event.

Tickets for the Robbie Burns dinner can be purchased at Grapes 4 U, 1504857 Elliott St., Ladner, or by calling 604-940-5040.

Visit www.deltapolicepipeband.com for more information about the band.

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Youngster uses visit to Ladner to donate his hair to Locks of Love

Eli Leukefeld had 12 inches of his hair cut off earlier this month to donate to Locks of Love.

The 10-year-old, along with his parents, Kurt and Tanya Leukefeld, and siblings, Adlea and Asher, was visiting Ladner from Calgary for Christmas. Eli wanted to come “home” so he could get his hair cut in front of family and friends as both sets of grandparents, Carol and Harald Leukefeld and Decima and John Mitchell, live in Ladner.

His hair was 16 inches in length before it was cut and donated towards a wig for a young person with cancer.

He had grown his hair for two years.

Tricia Vandenberg from Design Tech Hair Studio in Richmond offered to cut Eli’s hair free of charge and welcomed all 18 invited guests to watch at the salon.

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Cancer for several years and it was after her third year riding that Eli asked what he could do to help someone with cancer. He knew he had a “gift” with his curly hair so he decided to start growing it with the intent to donate it to a person around his age who is fighting cancer.

When asked how he liked his short hair, Eli responded, “It won’t be short for long. I am going to start growing it again right away.”

Judge urgently needed for youth poetry contest Local author and creator of the International Junior Authors Contests, Laura Michelle Thomas, is putting out an urgent call for an additional judge for her second annual poetry contest.

Reading and scoring of approximately 120 poems needs to be completed by

Reach Child and Youth Development Society Children’s Thrift Store Volunteer Fun and friendly volunteers are needed for our Children’s Thrift Store in downtown Ladner. Volunteers are needed to work in the store, especially on Saturdays. The store is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm. For more information contact volunteer@reachdevelopment.org or call 604-946-6622.

KinVillage Community Centre Boutique Helper KinVillage Recreation Centre is looking for people to volunteer in the Boutique store to help with sales and/ or sorting. Do you have a passion for fashion? Sales, display and cash register experience would be an asset.

Training is provided. For more detailed information contact John Lusted at 604-943-7625 ext. 1 or email jlusted@kinvillge.org KinVillage Community Centre Community Centre Receptionist KinVillage Community Centre is looking for volunteers to help at reception (mornings and afternoons). Duties include welcoming members of the public, answering phones and selling tickets for events and programs.

Previous experience with handling money, debit/credit machines and customer service would be an asset.

Training is provided. For more detailed information contact John Lusted at 604-943-7625 ext. 1 or email jlusted@kinvillge.org For more volunteer opportunities visit Deltassist’s website at www.deltassist.com and click on Volunteering then Volweb.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS

After growing his hair for two years, 10-year-old Eli Leukefeld had it cut so he could donate it towards a wig for a young person with cancer.

Jan. 28 so Thomas can announce the finalists on Jan. 30.

Thomas has completed the first round of judging of this year’s 389 entries from young writers in 34 countries. She said that with the help of returning judges Shirley Silva and Barbara Baydala, along with newcomer Ken Priebe, she has the other age categories

covered for the second round of judging. But she needs a second set of eyes to help her judge the biggest category — the 15 to 17 year olds.

Any poetry aficionados who are interested in helping are asked to contact Thomas by phone or text at 604-307-4971 or by email at laura@laurathomascommunications.com.

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No reason to be bored when boards at ready BARBARA GUNN

LIVING MATTERS Tis the season of chess and checkers and backgammon. Tis the season of Monopoly and Scrabble and Snakes and Ladders.

OK, so I lie when it comes to Snakes and Ladders, but that’s only because I haven’t owned Snakes and Ladders since I was eight. But it is the season of everything else.

At this time of year, when the days are short and the sky is dark and the magic of the patio is still a season and a half away, the pursuits are hardly trivial.

Bocce is out of the question, but cribbage is not.

“You get the board, I’ll get the cards,” I will say to the oldest son when he happens to be around.

For some reason, this is not something I will usually say to him in July — probably because he will happen to be on the golf course,

rather than in the living room, and I will be moving the sprinkler or filling the hanging basket or sweeping the driveway.

I will not be stoking the fire.

Right around now, when the only sensible thing to do outdoors is to make a bee line from the car to the front door, I am not thinking about Frisbees or picnic baskets or baseball mitts, but about Colonel Mustard and the candlestick and the conservatory.

Trimming the lawn? Not a chance. Right now, I’m all about St. James Place and Marvin Gardens and Reading Railroad.

“OK,” I will say to anyone who happens to be listening. “Who’s up for a game of scat or gin or twenty-one?”

Invariably, there’ll be a show of hands.

Sure, we’ll do the gin thing in August, but more often than not, it tends to be mixed with tonic. In August, I will not break out the playing cards as often as I do right now, since I am less likely to be padding

January 14, 2015 The Delta Optimist A7

Boutique Blanche Intimates

At this time of year, when the days are short and the sky is dark and the magic of the patio is still a season and a half away, the pursuits are hardly trivial. Bocce is out of the question, but cribbage is not. from one room to the other, and more likely to be wandering from a beach log to the water or a change room to a swimming pool.

“Oh, look!” I shouted, just last week. “I got the word qualms! And a triple score for the Q!” Yes, Scrabble will be on the agenda in the summer, when we might be lounging around in a cabin by a lake. But right around now, I am more tuned in to those double-word scores than I am to lakeside swimming.

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A8 The Delta Optimist January 14, 2015 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

Intent can be difficult to prove

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 Jenelle Julien jjulien@ delta-optimist.com Features Manager: Bob Ferguson bferguson@ 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

Entire Contents © 2015 The Optimist. All Rights Reserved

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 Intent. I’ve been struggling with that one word since the announcement back in October that a Delta police officer has been charged with second-degree murder.

In a highly unusual and controversial case, Const. Jordan MacWilliams faces the charge for an on-duty shooting that claimed the life of a 48-year-old man during an armed standoff at the Starlight Casino in New Westminster in the fall of 2012. MacWilliams was a member of the Municipal Integrated Emergency Response Team at the time.

Clearly the Independent Investigations Office came across something in its review of the shooting that compelled it to forward a report to Crown counsel, which in turn saw enough evidence to proceed with the murder charge. We have to respect those two offices and the process they follow. We’ll also have to wait for the trial, should there be one, to learn all details of this case.

I firmly believe that police officers aren’t above the law and they should be held to account for their actions, but I find it hard to comprehend the notion of an officer being charged with seconddegree murder given you have to prove intent for that kind of charge to stick.

This officer, who was carrying out his duties in a highly charged and volatile environment, was there to protect the public and his fellow officers, not to kill the suspect.

That’s not to suggest he had free rein to do what he pleased, and it’s certainly not meant to minimize the loss of life that occurred on that November day, but it surely has to factor into his state of mind, which plays a big part in these kinds of cases.

It’s worth noting that 11 officers in Ontario have been charged with manslaughter or second-degree murder since an Independent Investigations Office-like agency was formed a quarter-century ago. What’s most interesting is that each of those officers was subsequently cleared by the courts, with the exception of one that’s still waiting for his day before a judge.

I’m not suggesting that will automatically happen in the MacWilliams’ case, but Ontario’s experience does bolster the notion that it’s difficult to find guilt with officers who are carrying out their duties in extreme circumstances.

What we do know for sure is that a tragedy occurred on that fateful day more than two years ago outside a New Westminster casino. A man lost his life and many other lives were changed forever as a result.

The best we can hope for now is for the courts to arrive at a just ruling.

January bills offer reminder to teach kids about money BRAD SHERWIN

COMMUNITY COMMENT January. Ugh. There’s nothing good about January. Once New Year’s is over and you’ve dried off from the Polar Bear Swim, it just goes downhill.

People seem to be more pessimistic in January. The grand resolutions that we proclaim at the opening of the year typically fall by the wayside by now. I couldn’t help think that as I was walking out of Costco on the weekend and saw someone returning the stationary bike. I wonder if he even tried it first.

Some people make resolutions about finances. I read a CIBC survey that was particularly discouraging — 35 per cent of people didn’t believe they would meet their financial goals. Kind of negative for a resolution.

Maybe they were feeling that way because they just went through another January tradition, the arrival of the holiday credit card

statement. The joy and excitement of the holidays that has long passed is replaced with the disappointment and apprehension of having to pay for it all.

The news is full of stories about getting back on track and dealing with holiday debts. It’s a busy time for credit counselling agencies, the places people turn to when their debts get too overwhelming.

Reading through comments people make on social media is interesting. After getting their debts organized and learning how to budget better, one comment is striking: “Why don’t they teach this stuff in schools?”

Charles Dickens once wrote, “Annual income twenty pounds, annual expenditure nineteen —result happiness. Annual income twenty pounds, annual expenditure twenty-one pounds — result misery.” According to Stats Canada, on average, Canadians owe $1.62 for every dollar of income, quite a bit more than Dickens considered misery. Yet we are the ones teaching the next generation about money.

Managing money is a skill that we all use on a daily basis, yet there is little instruction on how to do it properly. Most of us will learn through trial and error, or by what our parents teach us. For the most part, kids are sheltered by their par-

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

ents through high school, get a few student loans in college and then get hit with the reality of actually having to pay them back. No wonder there are so many stories about problems with students repaying loans.

I watched a program about money one time where the speaker talked about a money memory — your earliest memory about dealing with money. Were you spending it, saving it, earning it or given it?

Whatever the case, it shapes how you will likely deal with money, and money will deal with you, for the rest of your life.

Except for identifying what money looks like early on, we don’t talk much about it in schools.

Planning a budget, understanding credit, how to save, why people invest — these are all issues that would make for good money memories.

When I ran for school trustee, this was a topic I wanted to address in our schools. I still think it’s important, because understanding money is a big step in helping kids succeed in life.

We need to bring financial literacy into the classroom now, while there is still a chance to shape those early money memories.

It’s one way to hopefully make January a little less miserable.

(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.

January 14, 2015 The Delta Optimist A9 Letters to the Editor

Earthen dikes are best bet to deal with sea level rise Editor: Re: Seawall breach in ‘Bay offers glimpse into what’s to come, Community Comment, Jan. 9 I agree with most of Ian Robertson’s comments. The three levels of government (federal, provincial and municipal) must plan and program together to address the issue of pending sea level rise here in Delta.

In October 2014, I was one of 30 competitors in an exhibition and presentation addressing sea level rise in Metro Vancouver.

As Robertson indicated, “The consensus of the reports is that our sea is rising...” A recent report for the provincial Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations states that we must allow for at least a one-metre rise in sea level.

In the case of the flood walls in Boundary Bay, I do not agree that we raise the existing retaining/flood walls. We must look at replacing or supplementing these concrete structures with the more substan-

tial earthen dikes that are armored (i.e. rock rip-rap) and protected from the current and future storm tidal scouring we are seeing today.

One only needs to go for a bike ride or walk along some of our existing dike systems along the Fraser River and foreshores in Delta and Richmond to witness the 40-year-old earthen and riprap dikes that continue to resist the destructive effects such as we see today in Boundary Bay. Bill Jones

Designer Lamps • Mirrors • Framed Art • Home Accents Candlesticks • and More

for sale Month of January

Hospice Cottage Charity Shoppe 1521 56 Street

FOR WEAK CORE, PILATES MEN&WOMEN. SORE BACK, Feel the difference in just

Many reasons why Christmas shopping FEELING TIGHT? in Ladner is an enjoyable experience Editor: I just wanted to say what a happy experience it was doing my Christmas shopping in Ladner.

Every store I went into I would find the staff helpful and friendly. No parking problems. No long line-ups.

Lots of bargains and the choice was amazing.

My family gets ever bigger, but there was something for everybody’s taste: Plenty of good-quality

books and toys for the little ones; kitchy kitchenware for the cooks; bulbs and garden-stuff for the keen gardeners; gourmet foods for the foodies. There were cozy hats and heated socks for the outdoorsy types and finding clothes with sparkle for the holiday season was no problem.

Everyone was really pleased with their gifts. If you can’t find exactly what you want for the more dif-

ficult members of the family, you can always hit the liquor store!

It’s good to shop at home.

These retailers pay taxes that support our health care and our children’s education. They help to provide uniforms for sports teams and contribute to community events.

I know where I’ll be Christmas shopping in 2015.

Lesley Morris

Family grateful that Boundary Bay neighbours support efforts to aid Downtown Eastside Editor: During the holiday season our two children, ages eight and 11, made and delivered 200 flyers in our Boundary Bay neighbourhood asking for donations of warm blankets, coats, socks and toiletries for people living on the Downtown Eastside of Vancouver.

We collected over 500

items and handed them out on a Sunday morning just before Christmas. It was our second year doing this and we don’t meet many of the people who donate items as bags mostly just appear on our doorstep.

We wanted to pass on our thanks to our generous neighbours that helped us make this time of year a

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A10 The Delta Optimist January 14, 2015 Business

Open Space Shopping Day raises $3,500 for hospice

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Delta Hospice’s Tama Recker with Michael Rudd and Stephanie Graves. Hospice received a Christmas gift of $3,561 from Open Space Yoga’s Shopping Day for Hospice. your time or money to our charity.”

Rudd said organizers were pleased with the generosity of participants this year.

“A heartfelt thank you to everyone who made this day possible,” he said. “We couldn’t do it without you.”

The fundraiser took place at Open Space Yoga in Ladner and attracted lots of wonderful vendors, includ-

ing Sonja Picard, Potters for Hospice, Lara Cuisine, Chair Massage by Sue, The Crows Nest Art Studio, Chocolate Love, Tiger Tea, Gretel Designs, Four Sisters Metis Beadwork, Rose Shortbread, Stephanie Graves, and Donna Hellewell.

Delta Hospice received 20 per cent of all sales and 100 per cent of all sales from Delta Potters.

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4:00 pm – 9:00 pm

TA DEL

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Saturday Sunday

RE

tive, Envision Financial has committed to raising $1 million for local food banks in the next 10 years. To date, Envision Financial has raised over $176,000 and more than 17,300 pounds of food for Food Banks in B.C. *** Vancity recently donated $5,000 to the Burns Bog Conservation Society to help in its efforts to protect

ST

ST

briefs

sensitive natural habitat by building boardwalks at the Delta Nature Reserve.

The donation brings the society another step closer to making the reserve a world-class recreation area people can enjoy for years to come.

Since all the manual labour for the project will be supplied for volunteers, every dollar of Vancity’s donation will be used to buy tools and material needed to repair the boardwalks and protect the ecologically sensitive area.

RE

GE

Envision Financial’s Full Cupboard Holiday Program, which is in its fifth year, collected more than 800 gifts, 3,665 pounds of food and nearly $4,000 to benefit community partner across the Lower Mainland and Kitimat last year.

Branches in Delta collected 140 gifts and 800 pounds of food.

The Full Cupboard is Envision Financial’s innovative program designed to raise food, funds and awareness for local food banks. Through this initia-

ET

ID

Envision helps stock the cupboard

BR

SUBMITTED PHOTO

On hand for Vancity’s $5,000 donation to the Burns Bog Conservation Society were (from left) Gerard Cowan, Wally Davyduke, Eliza Olson, Beverley Brooke Bly, Maureen Vo, Praveen Sidhu and James Innes.

Michael Rudd, owner of Open Space Yoga, and Stephanie Graves, representing Potters for Hospice, visited the Centre for Supportive Care just before Christmas with a wonderful Christmas gift.

With the support from the community, they raised $3,561 from the Shopping Day for Hospice held in November. This gift helps in sustaining the important grief and loss services offered at no cost to families by the Delta Hospice Society.

“Open Space Yoga, Delta Potters and a long list of other vendors have held this special Shopping Day for six years. Their ongoing support is truly appreciated,” said Delta Hospice executive director Nancy Macey.

“The society depends on our many community supporters each year. Whether a shopper, vendor or hospice volunteer, everyone involved directly or indirectly makes a difference in the lives of others by giving

4841 Delta Street, Ladner

604.946.5525 | bombayjoes@live.com | bombayjoes.ca

January 14, 2015 The Delta Optimist A11

INTHECLASSROOM YOUR GUIDE TO INDEPENDENT EDUCATION

Many reasons to go independent route Parents say unique experiences at wide range of schools worth the investment To teach their children the necessary skills for an ever-changing world, many parents are choosing independent school education.

With options ranging from boarding schools to modern alternative curricula, there is almost certainly a school to suit each and every child.

Here are reasons why parents are choosing to give their children the unique experience of an independent school and why it’s worth the financial investment: Enriched Academic Opportunities One of the accepted benefits of private schools is that they provide exceptional and challenging educational experiences through extracurricular activities, advanced placement courses and the International Baccalaureate program, just to name a few.

Private school students constantly score top marks on standardized tests and

teaching style, almost all focus on the importance of small class sizes to individually help students’ weak areas and advance their strengths.

Parental Involvement Private schools are built around open communica-

tion between parents and administration, and they make it a priority to involve parents in the community.

From frequent parent-teacher meetings, social events such as parent breakfasts and family camping weekends, and the participa-

tion of parent committees in fundraising initiatives, families are an integral part of the child’s education.

This common ground also helps strengthen parent-child relationships.

See BENEFITS page 12

Understanding

Understanding your child means helping your child your child

your child means helping

Academic opportunities are often cited as a reason to choose an independent school. college entrance exams, and many schools have a 100 per cent rate of students attending their university of choice.

Smaller Classes A comprehensive study on class size made by educational researchers Bruce Biddler and David Berliner

in 2002 showed the smaller the class size, the better the average student performs on academic achievement tests.

And the gains from smaller class sizes are stronger the longer a child is exposed to them. Private schools vary greatly in size, but depending on their

Dr. Pinkus has maintained a private practice for over 20 years. She offers short and long term psychotherapy to children, adolescents, adults and families. She conducts detailed psycho educational assessements of individuals with educational and behavioral issues, including potential giftedness and learning disabilities.

Many individuals experience learning challenges due to a learning disability that has not been identified or has been misdiagnosed as a behavioral or attention problem. With a thorough assessment, the individual's learning style, strengths or weaknesses can be better understood so that effective learning can occur.

Dr. Pinkus can be contacted at www.joanpinkus.ca or 604.266.5354

Dr. Joan Pinkus registered psychologist 604-266-5354

The Kerrisdale Professional Centre Suite 314 - 2025 West 42nd Avenue, Vancouver, B.C.

AN OPPORTUNITY TO EXPERIENCE A SOUTHRIDGE EDUCATION APPLY NOW SOUTHRIDGE IS PLEASED TO OFFER THE FOLLOWING BURSARIES: The Southridge Spirit Bursary One five year bursary, covering up to 100% tuition for a Grade 8-12 student The Carol E. Levy Memorial Bursary One three year bursary, covering up to 100% tuition for a Grade 10 student The Alan Brown Memorial Bursary One bursary, covering up to 50% of tuition for a Grade 8-12 Female student For more information please vist our website:

www.southridge.bc.ca

APPLICATION DEADLINE: JAN 30TH, 2015

Admissions office 604.542.2345

|

www.southridge.bc.ca

| SOUTHRIDGE SCHOOL 2656 160th St. Surrey

A12 The Delta Optimist January 14, 2015

INTHECLASSROOM BENEFITS from page 11 Is your child gifted?

Choice School offers: Personalized programming, learning opportunities that inspire and challenge high ability students, and an emotionally nurturing environment where they can be themselves.

• Our advanced academic program engages students in learning well beyond grade levels.

• We make a difference in gifted children’s lives!

You are invited to our

Open House

Friday, Feb 27 9am-11am See our school in action Check our website for full details

Where curiosity and creativity are the catalysts for learning.

Choice School

For the Gifted and Exceptional

www.choiceschool.org 20451 Westminster Highway North Richmond, BC V6V 1B3 Ask about our tuition assistance program

Limited spaces in selected grades. Call now to reserve your child’s place: 604-273-2418

Dedicated Teachers In a study completed by the Fraser Institute in 2007, 91 per cent of parents surveyed said the dedication of the teachers was their main reason for choosing private school. Instructors are both qualified and passionate about their subjects, often holding advanced degrees in their field.

Within the tight-knit school community, students have close relationships with teachers who commonly act as role models.

In addition, small class sizes make staff members more readily available for extra help or to further challenge individual students.

A Safe Environment Private schools have reputations for maintaining high standards for discipline and respect. Lower staff-to-student ratios allow for more effective observation and control of school grounds. The strong sense of community found in private schools also discourages dangerous behaviour.

In the Fraser Institute study, around 72 per cent of parents surveyed with chil-

dren in the private school system strongly agreed that their school was safe, which greatly improves the quality of the child’s educational experience and achievement.

The discipline they learn also improves their rates for success in post-secondary education when they are in control of their class attendance and achievement.

Community Environment According to a Fraser Institute survey, 62 per cent of parents with children in the private school system believe their school’s environment is motivating, supportive and nurturing.

Former students repeatedly report that the friendships they formed in private school have lasted postgraduation. A strong sense of pride is often instilled in private school alumni, creating rich networking opportunities upon entering the workforce.

Extracurricular Activities While academics remain the priority for most private schools, many also place a strong focus on a well-

rounded education and encourage participation in extracurricular activities such as sports, music, arts or clubs.

This involvement helps stimulate students in their studies, as noted in a study at Stanford University that found students involved in the arts are more motivated to learn and are three times more likely to win a school attendance award.

Extracurricular activities can provide a much-needed break from the stresses of academics while developing skills and engaging in valuable social situations.

Shared Educational Philosophy There are innumerable approaches to education, and finding a school that matches one’s own perspective can create a positive, productive academic experience for your child.

Whether you prefer the student-directed learning method of Montessori, or the arts-based curriculum of a Waldorf school, choosing the right private school will not only allow students to thrive in a supportive environment and build independence, but also gain unique skills that fit their learning style.

Sacred Heart School

Open House Thursday, February 5th • 6:00 - 8:30pm

WHY SHOULD YOU CONSIDER SACRED HEART SCHOOL?

Our community-based school is committed to developing the whole child in a balanced learning environment. Vibrant, involved and nurturing teachers foster our students to be respectful and accountable leaders.

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

Differentiated learning for individualized and inclusive advancement with programs such as ReadWell, Mathletics and Orton Gillingham Advanced technological literacy developed using a state-of-the art Mac Lab, iPads and interactive white boards in all classrooms French program from Kindergarten to gr. 7 with two dedicated French teachers After school high-school exam preparatory sessions offered

Sacred Heart School

A Catholic Community of Learning and Faith in Delta, B.C.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

Wide spectrum of extracurricular activities are offered to shape growing minds Fine Arts programming includes Junior and Senior bands, Visual Arts Club and Choirs Athletic Program includes recreational activities and intramural sports. SHS actively participates in interschool competition in soccer, cross-country, track and field, basketball and volleyball Brain gain opportunities like the Odyssey of the Mind program develops problem-solving skills Lil’ Saints Preschool is conveniently located next door www.lilsaintspreschool.org

COMMUNITY, SPIRIT & FAITH

Staff and families cultivate a strong spirit of generousity rooted in the Christian faith to aid those in need - locally and beyond We celebrate and support one-another with a spirit of love, faith and compassion OPEN HOUSE - February 5th, 6:00 to 8:30pm Tour the school and classrooms Ready, Set, Learn program Experience the children’s visual arts projects Listen to the award winning school band

www.shsdelta.net

3900 Arthur Drive, Delta, B.C. V4K 3N5 604.946.2611 office@shsdelta.org

January 14, 2015 The Delta Optimist A13

INTHECLASSROOM Take pains to ensure school is right fit Searching for the right school is not a sprint, it’s a marathon, requiring committed preparation.

While finding the right house is all about location, location, location, when it comes to private schools, the motto is fit, fit, fit.

There is no one-size-fitsall approach. What makes a school perfect for your neighbour’s child doesn’t necessarily make it the right choice for yours.

Your family’s circumstances, the individual strengths and needs of your child, your education philosophy and vision will all contribute to your choice of schools.

Private and independent schools are numerous and diverse. There are schools with excellent academic and athletic programs. Some schools follow a distinct education philosophy, such as Montessori, or serve a particular religious community. There are arts-based schools, all-boys schools, boarding schools... and the

list goes on.

So before you start flipping through attractive brochures or browsing websites, take the time to consider, as a family, what it is you are looking for in a school and why.

Top considerations • Your child’s personality, learning style and academic ability.

• Special learning strengths and/or needs your child may have.

• Your family’s values, goals and priorities.

• Your budget for education spending.

• How far you are willing to let your child travel each day and commuting distance to and from school.

• What type of academic setting you are looking for (a back-to-basics curriculum or a more alternative approach) and how strong you’d like the academic focus to be.

• Your absolute musthaves, such as small class sizes or specific athletic facilities.

• Coed or same sex, boarding and/or day school preferences.

• School size: Are you searching for a small or large school?

• Program duration: Are you looking for a school with an elementary and a high school program, where your child can stay for many years?

• The importance of extracurricular activities.

Write down your basic must-haves in one column of a page. In a second column, add your wish list — the points that are not essential, but would be a bonus to find.

Quick tips • Start your search early.

A year in advance is not too soon.

• Do first-hand research.

Don’t rely on the experiences of others.

• Contact a number of schools directly and ask them to mail out an information package.

• Attend open houses and private school fairs.

Southpointe ACAD E M Y

OPEN HOUSE TUESDAY, JANUARY 27 9:00AM–10:30AM

We instruct, involve and inspire our students to learn, lead and succeed.

Shahin Virji, Director of Admissions

svirji@southpointe.ca | 604-948-8826

www.southpointe.ca

KEC... where French means success!

French: All levels welcome.

Test Prep: DELF, SAT2, AP & IB English: All levels welcome. Academic & Creative Writing. Test Prep: BC Provincial, SAT2, SSAT, LPI, AP & IB G1-12 Math/Science: Calculus, Physics, Chemistry. Test Prep: Provincial, AP & IB Kueis Education Centre #5510 - 8181 Cambie Road, Richmond, B.C. V6X 3X9

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A14 The Delta Optimist January 14, 2015

St. Patrick Regional Secondary School

INTHECLASSROOM

Open House January 18th @ 1:00 pm

Keeping pace with times

Grades 8-12

Deadline for Grade 8 Registration February 11, 2015

115 E. 11th Avenue, Vancouver BC

604.874.6422

www.stpats.bc.ca

RICHMOND

CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

Grades 8-12

Richmond Christian School has limited spaces available for students entering Grades 8-12 in September 2015 Registration and Open House

Wednesday, January 14th

Middle School Open House Secondary Open House 10am-Noon 1pm-3pm 10200 No. 5 Road 10260 No. 5 Road

Questions? 604.272.5720

Visit http://myrcs.ca/prospective-families/ for more information and application package.

Here are five emerging trends in independent education: 1. The Arts In the 21st-century classroom, schools are redefining what it means to be “smart” through unconventional means: the arts.

Research shows that studying the arts may not only help students get good grades, but is linked to social and emotional development, problem solving, cognitive ability, critical thinking, creativity, empathy, innovation, collaboration, leadership and a wide range of higher-order thinking skills.

Exposure to the arts, namely music, has been found to help children in academic areas including math and languages, while also boosting their intelligence, attention and memory.

2. Science & Technology As technology evolves at a head- spinning pace, many independent schools forge ahead as digital innovators.

With the financial resources in place, independent schools are equipped

to move ahead with the adoption and implementation of new technologies to prepare students for university and beyond.

Taking technology to the next level, private schools have been opening students up to some of the best learning opportunities, including robotics co-curricular programs, interactive software in the physics lab and innovative online classes.

3. Environment For today’s digitally savvy youth, nature is often far from their minds.

Spending more time with video games, smartphones, computers and TV has contributed to the widespread onset of nature-deficit disorder, a term coined by author and environmental activist Richard Louv, which links behavioural problems in young people to lack of outdoor exposure.

Independent schools across Canada have made it an integral part of their mission to teach environmental education. Many now realize that in order to get students to care about environmental protection

and sustainability, they must first help them build a hands-on relationship with nature.

4. Global Environment A new generation of global citizens is being educated in independent schools across the country.

Whether travelling abroad to help a community in need, learning a new language or developing diversity awareness initiatives in their own classrooms, independent school students have more opportunities than ever to broaden their knowledge and understanding of international perspectives to help them integrate into a multicultural world.

5. Health A school’s responsibility is to raise healthy students, not just educate them.

That’s what psychologist and mental health advocate Dr. Adam Cox believes is essential to fostering healthy schools.

Health and wellness has become more of a priority for schools today given the significant increase in stress, anxiety and depression among North American youth.

Delta Christian School You’re invited to our

OPEN HOUSE

Thursday, January 15

9:30am-2:30pm & 6:00pm-8:00pm

Early Bird Registration for 2015/16 4789 - 53rd St., Delta

604-946-2514

Now Offering FREE KINDERGARTEN* &

25% off Tuition* Grades 1 through 7

Must register before January 31, 2015

*For new families

Limited space School bus to North Delta

contact: tony@deltachristianschool.org www.deltachristianschool.org

School tours are available anytime by appointment

INTHECLASSROOM

January 14, 2015 The Delta Optimist A15

YOUR GUIDE TO INDEPENDENT EDUCATION

Is an independent education worth it?

You want to give your child the best but you also have income constraints.

So how do you choose between independent schools and public schools?

Put another way, how do you decide independent education is really worth it?

Here’s a rundown of issues pertaining to independent schools vs. public schools in North America: Tuition vs. taxes Everyone pays taxes, so you are already supporting the public school system.

Why pay for both, you might ask yourself?

Most independent school parents view the “dollars and cents question” as a materialistic reduction.

For example, for Jewish or Christian parents, a private school that bolsters religious faith offers something invaluable. Parents of Waldorf or Montessori school students feel much the same.

Depending on what kind of independent school you decide on, tuition can range from $4,000 per year up to more than $100,000. Public school costs nothing, of

course.

Is it more important to you to spend the money on independent school tuition versus having money to treat your kids well in other respects? How much are you willing to sacrifice? Do you think the best things in life are free or do you believe you get what you pay for?

Admittance Independent schools are allowed to expel students and can choose not to allow certain students admittance.

In fact, many independent schools are difficult to get into. Public schools allow all students, regardless of religious creed, academic abilities or any other factor.

Sending you child to an independent school means enrollment is selective and demands are uniformly higher versus a public school where they will be exposed to a wider variety of people and abilities. In today’s world, both are likely to incorporate students from various cultures and backgrounds.

Student population In most areas, your

Financial considerations often factor into the decision whether to send a student to an independent school. children will attend public school with other kids from the same area. When parents choose an independent school, they often do so based on their desire to give their children a specific peer group, whether that is based on discipline, cultural or religious background, or philosophical beliefs.

In most independent schools, students are excluded or expelled if they do not adhere to the school’s policies or standards.

Class size Overcrowding of public school classrooms is one of the most common complaints about the public education system, a significant problem that inspires parents to seek private school alternatives.

School governance Because they do not use public funds (or in some areas, less funds), private schools are not as restricted in their program development or curricula.

This freedom allows

independent schools to develop their own curricula.

As long as parents agree with the intellectual, philosophical or religious basis brought to the curricula, this independence from “government interference” is seen as a great advantage of independent schools over public.

On the other hand, public schools use curricula designed to include all students, thus invoking in them a tolerance for others.

Learning in both public and independent schools is measured through standardized testing.

Teacher certification All teachers in public schools in almost all states and provinces in North America are required to have some form of federal, state or provincial certification along with a bachelor’s degree.

In the more prestigious independent and boarding schools, there are likely to be teachers who are much more highly qualified, with graduate degrees and higher level awards.

Actual teacher certifi-

cation on a province-byprovince basis varies and is always being revised, so blanket statements are not helpful or appropriate.

Quality of education Independent school and public school administrators and educators all do their best to create the best learning environment possible.

There are excellent public schools and there are excellent independent schools.

In Canada, the Fraser Institute ranks schools, often finding favour with independent schools, although it does highly rank some public schools.

In the U.S., the situation is similar: there are good public schools but many of the best overall schools are privately funded.

A study by Harvard University found that independent school students averaged higher than their public school counterparts in standardized tests in 11 of 12 comparisons of students.

• Content for In The Classroom pages provided by www.ourkids.net.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Pythagoras Academy Committed to Educational Excellence in Richmond

Pythagoras Academy is an elite independent school, and the first private non-religious elementary school in Richmond who believes in bringing classical Renaissance educational values to modern minds, and in championing strong academics alongside an impeccably thorough focus on the arts.

The school is also strongly connected to the Richmond community, and is always seeking ways to give back.

In September of 2014 Pythagoras Academy has taken its commitment to the arts and to the local community to another level: the school has partnered up with three of the best fine and performing art institutions in Vancouver in order to provide superb programs to both Pythagoras Academy students as well as children in the city of Richmond.

The After School Music Program is offered by the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra School of Music, the only music school in North America founded by a major

symphony orchestra. In this exclusive collaboration, Pythagoras Academy affords students of all ages the opportunity to work directly with professional musicians and top-level educators in the fields of classical, jazz and world music.

Students are able to interact with the orchestra by sitting on the stage with the VSO during rehearsals, and working directly with world-class guest artists who perform with the VSO. Most importantly, the students have the opportunity to be a part of a musical community that celebrates excellence and achievement.

As part of the newly enhanced arts education platform, Goh Ballet Dance Academy, an internationally renowned dance school whose students continually receive enormous worldwide recognition, is offering a special dance curriculum at Pythagoras Academy. By participating in this program, children have the opportunity to study dance with instructors that are

certified by the Royal Academy of Dance.

In addition to building on essential ballet techniques, students learn about the importance of group interaction, creativity and the joy of self-expression.

No creative curriculum is complete without the visual arts. To that effect, Arts Umbrella, a non-profit art education centre for children and youth, facilitates the new After School Visual Arts Program. Arts umbrella offers two courses on a weekly basis throughout the 2014/15 school year.

Architecture Meaning and Making class will teach students how to communicate ideas through drawing, and how to then translate those drawings and ideas into three-dimensional models. Through modelmaking, students will be able to learn about the fundamentals of architecture and green technologies.

Drawing & Painting class is taught by a practicing artist who will employ a variety of materials, techniques and themes in order to give students the tools to express their own creativity. This class will also allow the students to apply their problem solving skills, thereby matching Pythagoras Academy’s philosophy which stipulates that critical thinking and creativity are interdependent, and that the most complete kind of education nurtures both equally.

Pythagoras Academy is thrilled to be able to offer this new enriched arts curriculum in the 2014/15 school year, and is particularly excited about being able to extend this incredible educational opportunity to not just it’s own students, but to all Richmond

families. Our new arts program is available to all students even if they are not enrolled at Pythagoras Academy.

Or contact the school via E-mail: info@pythagorasacademy.ca Phone: 604-370-0199

Don’t miss your chance to give your child a For more information on our outstanding world-class arts education right in your own educational partners, please visit the community! following websites: www.vsoschoolofmusic.ca, For more information about Pythagoras www.gohballet.com and Academy and the new arts curriculum, please visit www.pythagorasacademy.ca www.artsumbrella.com

A16 The Delta Optimist January 14, 2015 Feedback

There will be a mail-in referendum this spring asking whether Metro Vancouver residents support a 0.5 per cent congestion improvement

tax. The new tax would go towards paying for transit improvements. It would be an addition to the provincial sales tax. The Optimist asked:

Will you support the proposed transit tax?

Corinne Inglis I think that’s a difficult question because TransLink didn’t bother charging anybody, or put in token stations where they were collecting all the money from people for years and years and years.

Fiona Gray No, I wouldn’t support it because we already pay a lot of transport tax here and we don’t have the service. Plus I think TransLink has to be more transparent about where the money’s going.

You can have your say on this issue by taking part in our web poll at www. delta-optimist.com

Norm Grohmann I’m in favour of the tax if the authorities can guarantee a more efficient and user-friendly transit system.

Glenn Kirkwood My opinion is that the region has some very serious challenges in terms of transportation. We need to seek some solutions ... and we need to look at all options on the table and alternative options as well.

Peter Bruce I’m in favour of transit.

Would I support the tax?

Yes, I probably would.

They’ve got to do something with transit, whether this is the right way or the wrong way.

Last time we asked you:

What’s your New Year’s resolution?

• 20 per cent said exercise more often.

• 10 per cent said spend more time with family.

• 14 per cent said eat less junk food.

• 56 per cent said to not make resolutions.

January 14, 2015 The Delta Optimist A17 Coming Events Clubs & Groups !Canadian Mental Health Association Delta offers a Family Support Group for individuals supporting someone with a mental illness. Meetings are held on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month from 7-9 p.m. The next meeting is on Jan. 14 at Delta Hospital, 5800 Mountain View Blvd., Ladner (education room).

Please Call CMHA Delta at 604-943-1878 to be registered for your first meeting. !The South Delta Newcomers & Alumni meetings are held the third Thursday of each month at 7:15 pm at the Art Gallery, Kiwanis Longhouse, located at 1710-56th St., Tsawwassen. The club is for women who have moved to South Delta and Point Roberts, to introduce you to the community and help you make new friends. Join us on Thursday, Jan. 15.

Contact Holly at holly.hastie@uregina.ca. !eBooks and eReaders, Thursday, Jan. 15, 7 - 8 pm - Ladner Pioneer Library and Tuesday, Jan. 20, 7 - 8 pm - Tsawwassen Library.

Did you receive a new eReader or tablet over the holidays? Are you looking for FREE eBooks to read on it? Our knowledgeable library staff will cover all our eBook options for Kobo, Android and Apple devices in this fun and informative session. !Enjoy your Baby, free course with baby minding provided at no extra charge.

10-11:30 a.m. Saturdays (Jan. 17, 24, 31 and Feb. 7, 2015) at Ladner United Church. Further details and registration info at www. llttf.ca or call CMHA Delta 604-943-1878. !Now Yoga of Delta is cosponsoring a free seminar and demonstration of the revolutionary new technique, the Self-Healing Dalian Method, on Sunday, Jan. 18 from 1:00 - 2:30 pm at Wellspring Health in Tsawwassen, 1248-56th St. To reserve a seat, contact Sandra Neerava Nash of Now Yoga at 778-240-4704 or visit the NowYoga.ca blog page for more information. !Low Vision Support Group meets at Ladner Library the third Monday of most months. Next meeting is Monday, Jan. 19 from 1:30-2:30 pm. This month’s guest will be discussing emergency preparedness.

Note: sighted people are

needed to help with organizing and with driving.

Please contact Pat Rogers at 946-2669 if you’re able to help out. !Tsawwassen Parkinson’s support group - next meeting: Monday, Jan. 19. We are a group whose members either have Parkinson’s or are caregivers to someone with PDS. We meet once a month at KinVillage from 11 am to 12:30 pm to talk, exchange ideas and socialize. For more information call Peter or Eileen at 604943-8350. !The Probus Club of South Delta, a non-profit, fellowship club for retired and semi-retired professional and business people will hold its General Meeting at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 21, in The Coast Tsawwassen Inn. Our guest speaker is Eva Sehra, BCAA, taliking on travel insurance. Guests are welcome. Please call Dick Williams at 604-9406542 for information. Our Discussion Group will meet the following morning, Thursday, Jan. 22, at 10 am at CoPs. !Ask An Investment Advisor - Living Fully...

Dying Neatly: How to Effectively Plan Your Exit - Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2:30 - 4 pm - Tsawwassen Library. Sheila Whitehead, Investment and Wealth Advisor with RBC Dominion Securities will be at the Delta Libraries to answer your questions about: minimizing probate and taxes; choosing the right executor and power of attorney, effectively transferring assets to heirs and/or charities, what’s the hold up when there is a will. Please RSVP jennifer. bishop@rbc.com or 604535-3837. !The Arthritis Society presents: Chronic Pain Management Workshop, Wednesday, Jan. 21, 6 8:30 pm - Ladner Pioneer Library. Based on the Arthritis Self-Management Program, this forum introduces participants to self-management skills and the principles of pain management. Learn about - the physical causes of pain in arthritis; better managing stress and fatigue; the benefits of exercise and using medications wisely.

Register with The Arthritis Society by calling 604-5149902. !PreSchool Readiness Program! Are you interested in sending your little ones to Preschool on the

Tsawwassen Peninsula?

Come to the Point Roberts Library at the PR Community Center for a presentation about Early Childhood Literacy and how your local preschools, libraries and schools can help your children develop to their full potential.

Childcare provided; we are hoping for a family centered event on Sunday, Jan. 25, from 2 to 4 pm. http://www.wcls.org/PointRoberts-Branch-News/ For more info: email - Rose.

Momsen@wcls.org. !January 27 is Family Literacy Day. Delta Libraries (FVRL <http:// www.fvrl.bc.ca/>) and Delta Community Literacy Committee have joined forces to make this the year that Delta gets on the national map! The goal of National Literacy Day is to get you reading with your family for 15 short minutes a day but the goal of #ScreensOffDelta! is to get you UNPLUGGED for one whole hour! !Please join the Rotary Club of Ladner for - Lunch with Chief Jim Cessford, a reflection of his 20 years in Delta. When: Tuesday, Jan. 27 at noon at the Delta Town & Country Inn. Cost: $20. For reservations text: 604-306-1047 Patricia Sibley. www.rotaryladner. org. !Free UVic Chronic Pain Self-Management workshop starts Thursday, Feb. 5 at McKee Rec Centre from 9:30 am to 12 pm. Learn strategies to manage pain, deal with difficult emotions, exercise comfortably, and work with health care providers. To register call UVic at 604-940-1273 or go to www.selfmanagementbc.ca. !The Delta Photo Club meets Wednesdays at the Kin Village Recreation Centre, Tsawwassen. Set up and socialize 7 - 7:30.

Meeting 7:30 - 9:30 pm.

Photographers of all skill levels are welcome. www. deltaphotoclub.com.

Seniors !Shari’s Saturday Social, Saturday, Jan. 17 is going with a black and white theme. As always, you can dance to a wide variety of CD music. Couples and singles welcome. KinVillage Community Centre, 543010th Ave., Tsawwassen.

Doors open at 7 pm. Tickets available at the door cash or cheque only $10 for members $12 for non-members includes mid-evening tea, coffee, and assorted good-

ies. If you wish to reserve a table, please call Shari at 604-943-8755 by Jan. 15. !A Whimsical Winter Luncheon at KinVillage Community Centre, Friday, Jan. 23 at 12:15 followed by in-house entertainment.

Tickets $12 for members $14 for non-members. 5430-10th Avenue, Tsawwassen. Telephone 604-943-0225.

Special Events !10th Anniversary Giant Sale of books, board games, DVDs, and CDs. Please bring in your gently used re-saleable items. Sorry, no digests, geographics, computer books or encyclopedia. Donations accepted Monday to Friday 9 am until noon through to Jan. 26. KinVillage Community Centre, 5430-10th Ave., Tsawwassen. Sale runs Thursday, Jan. 29 from 10 am to 6 pm, Jan. 30 from 9 am to 6 pm and Jan. 31 from 9 am to 3 pm. The Unique Boutique will be open 9 am to 3 pm on Saturday, Jan. 31.

Carrier theof Week Congratulations to KENRIC CHANG

Kenric won a gift card courtesy of

McDonald’s • 1835 56th Street TSAWWASSEN • 5776 Ladner Trunk Road LADNER

If you are interested in becoming a carrier please call 604.942.3081

Arts !Calling all singers to join the Delta Community Choir or Tapestry for our spring term. New members welcomed Jan. 19, with a small voice check for proper placement. Meet Mondays 7 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. at Benediction Lutheran Church at 5575-6th Ave. Tsawwassen. !The Sidekick Players presents Jenny’s House of Joy by Norm Foster and directed by Carroll Lefebvre. The story of four women who work in a brothel in Baxter Springs, Kansas in the late 1800s.

This is a serious play with the Foster comic bent!

Funny, touching and ripe with comic surprises to keep you engaged to the very end. Jan. 22 - Feb. 7 (Thurs, Fri & Sat) at 8pm and January 25 & February 1 (Sunday) at 2pm. All performances are at The Tsawwassen Arts Centre, 1172-56th St. Adults: $18, Seniors (60+) $15. Seating is limited (Bistro Style) To reserve a seat please call 604-288-2415.

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).

Name: Mindy

Age: 62

Occupation: Transit Operator What is the activity? Water walking Where and when does this take place? Monday/Wednesday/Friday at the Ladner Leisure Centre.

How often do you participate? 5-6 days a week, 2 hours a day.

How long have you been involved? I have been swimming since Winskill opened, and then at the Ladner Leisure Centre when it opened.

Why did you get involved in this activity? I got involved in Water Walking to get over a back injury.

What do you like best about this activity? I really enjoy it and hope it will help me to get back in shape.

How does it benefit your life? Both swimming and water walking keep me healthy, and are enjoyable pastimes. I get to meet a lot of people.

What other things do you do to keep active? Walking.

Did you know that water exercise can allow you to rehabilitate the body without the jolting often experienced on dry land? Water walking can be useful for spine and lower extremity injuries, arthritis, and to maintain fitness levels as well as heal an injury. Other low impact water programs offered for fitness and rehabilitation include Aqua Joints and the Warm Water Workout.

Start the New Year off by becoming the best possible you! Delta Parks, Recreation and Culture aquatic and fitness facilities offer specialized programs, plenty of drop-in opportunities, and friendly, knowledgeable staff. We’d be pleased to provide you with the assistance you need to get started on a new program, or to rejuvenate your existing workout.

Visit us online at delta.ca, call us at 604-952-3000 or stop by your local recreation centre for further information.

A18 The Delta Optimist January 14, 2015

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Delta Sports Sports Editor: Mark Booth

Phone: 604-946-4451

January 14, 2015 The Delta Optimist A19

Email: mbooth@delta-optimist.com

Robson’s road back to the mound

Ladner pitcher and Toronto Blue Jays prospect is throwing again after undergoing Tommy John surgery last July MARK BOOTH

Tom Robson will never take throwing a baseball for granted again.

For nearly four months, the 21-year-old Toronto Blue Jays prospect was shutdown as he recovered from Tommy John surgery — the re-construction of the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) — named after the former major league pitcher.

“I started a (no wind-up) throwing program in December and I have been throwing every Monday, Wednesday and Friday for the last six weeks,” explained the Ladner native. “I started at 45 feet then moved to 60 with about 10 to 15 throws at each distance. Last week, I moved back to 75 and next week it will be 90 before eventually going to 105.”

If all goes well over the 12 week program, Robson will begin the next phase of his rehabilitation — an eight week mound progression which will likely take place at the Blue Jays training facility in Dunedin, Florida. It would then be a couple of bullpen sessions a week to get his pitches back, followed by live bullpens before throwing to batters. A couple of simulated games would be the last step before returning to action which, right now, is pencilled in for late May or early June.

His recovery is being monitored by Travis Wolsey at Sungod Physio who provides updates to Jays’ rehab coordinator Jeff Stevenson.

“I see Travis whenever I have a problem and he has got me on a good program where I have gained a lot of muscle and strength back,” said Robson. “A team strength coach lives in Vancouver and he will come and see me as well. I should know in a couple of weeks when (the Jays) are going to want me to report.”

Robson’s professional career was soaring along in the summer of 2013, highlighted by pitching the playoff pennant clinching game for the Vancouver Canadians in front of a sold out crowd at

Nat Bailey Stadium. He finished the season in a fall instructional league and headed to spring training last February looking to continue his progress. At the time, the Jays Journal blog had him listed as the organization’s 13th best prospect who could be in the Major Leagues as early as the 2016 season.

Robson was assigned to the club’s Class A affiliate in Lansing, Michigan. He was only about a month into the season when he began to experience arm trouble.

The pain was similar to his rookie campaign back in 2012 when he was on the disabled list for three months. He gutted through a few appearances before finally being pulled from the rotation after his May 14th start.

“For four starts in the row I was doing well so I didn’t want to say anything,” Robson recalled.

“But, basically, the next morning I didn’t want to wake up. I would go to bed knowing my arm would be toast. It was so sore and tight. I would take Advil and put heating rub on it.

“I would get an off day (after a start), then throw bullpen and I was just terrible. It was my fault because I should have said something and my coaches weren’t happy with me. I prolonged it a bit.”

He was flown to Florida where an MRI revealed a significant tear of his UCL. The injury can heal through rehabilitation but Robson wanted a more permanent solution after two previous stints on the DL. He got a second opinion from renowned surgeon Dr. James Andrews who suggested a platelet enriched plasma injection into the injured area. After six weeks, Robson resumed throwing and the pain returned. He went back to see Andrews on July 14 and had surgery the next day.

The surgical graft procedure saw tendon taken from his forearm to replace the damaged ligament in his medial elbow. The three scars are a daily reminder.

“They drill holes (into bones of the upper and lower arm) and figure eight the tendons to pro-

Tides at Tsawwassen Pacific Standard Time. Height in feet

After pitching the Vancouver Canadians to a playoff pennant cliching win in the summer of 2013, Ladner’s Tom Robson was assigned by the Toronto Blue Jays to the Lansing Lugnuts last spring where soreness returned in his throwing arm, eventually leading to an MRI that revealed a torn ulnar collatreal ligament. vide more structure,” explained Robson. “He said it went well.

I stayed in Florida and did very little for the first six weeks.”

Tommy John surgery is nothing new for local pro baseball prospects.

Tsawwassen’s Kyle Lotzkar, who was also a high draft pick out of high school, had the procedure done and also suffered a stress fracture in his throwing elbow.

Now 24, he has worked his way to the Class AA level in the Texas Rangers organization.

So what triggered Robson’s injury?

“Dr. Andrews says it’s a good chance it happened when I was younger and it just started acting

THURSDAY, JANUARY 15 2:39 am 11.8 12:08 pm 14.1

6:17 pm 10.8 8:02 pm 4.6

SUNDAY, JANUARY 18 5:06 am 14.4 2:42 pm 14.4

10:01 am 11.5 10:31 pm 1.6

up now,” he said. “Everyone is throwing harder these days and I was throwing harder than I ever had (at this time) last year. I was throwing pretty hard at a young age but (B.C. Premier League) Langley Blaze are really good about your pitch count and I never pitched that much with the junior national team either because we had so much depth.

“Right now, I’m just listening to my arm. There are some days when it doesn’t feel as good as other days. It all depends, but I definitely don’t push it.”

Robson has always thrown “a bit” across his body but says he is changing his mechanics to “stay in line better” and put less stress

on his arm by relying more on his legs and core strength. Thanks to today’s advanced rehabilitation, a complete recovery is in the 90 percent range.

A long list of Major League pitchers who have had Tommy John surgery include Washington Nationals star Stephen Starsburg and 2015 Baseball Hall of Fame inductee John Smoltz.

“It’s a year’s worth of rehab and it’s how well you take advantage of that time,” added Robson.

“Whatever the injury is, it’s how much hard work you want to put in. I’m trying to get back in the best shape I can and I think I have got a lot stronger. I should be throwing the same.”

FRIDAY, JANUARY 16 3:38 am 12.8 7:46 am 11.5 12:55 pm 14.1 8:49 pm 3.6

SATURDAY, JANUARY 18

MONDAY, JANUARY 19

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.

5:43 am 15.1 3:38 pm 14.4

10:53 am 11.2 11:07 pm 1.3

5:06 am 13.8 2:42 pm 14.4

10:01 am 11.5 10:22 pm 2.6

01046786

BY

mbooth@delta-optimist.com

A20 The Delta Optimist January 14, 2015

OUR 40

TH

ANNIVERSARY

SCAN WITH TO REVEAL PHOTOS

This June Delta Gymnastics will be celebrating its 40th Anniversary.

We wish to contact all our past gymnasts, parents, and supporters so we can send you the celebration information.

Please join our facebook page: www.facebook.com/deltgymnastics40thanniversary or email us your contact information at clewall@deltagymnastics.com

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PHOTO

South Delta Hockey Academy’s U18 Wild Prep team opened the new year by getting a steady diet of cross Canada competition at the 36th annual Kelowna International Major Midget Tournament.

The 12-team event featured four days of round-robin action with the top two teams advancing to Sunday’s championship game. The Wild finished with a 1-2-1 record.

The boys opened the tournament with a 2-1 win over the B.C. Major Midget Hockey League’s Okanagan Rockets.

Jordan Deyrmenjian and Trevor Sundher had the Delta goals, while Nic Herrebrugh was terrific in net, making 24 saves as the defending tournament champions enjoyed a 25-14 advantage in the shot department.

The Wild then dropped a 4-2 decision to the Saskatoon Contacts. First period goals

by Isaac Embree and Deyrmenjian gave the Wild a 2-1 lead. The game was tied at 2-2 after 40 minutes, setting the stage for Saskatoon to score twice in the third period. Delta received more excellent goalten-

When: December 30, 2014 to March 16, 2015 Time: 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Trees are a significant cause of power interruptions. Contact between trees and power lines can also create a severe danger.

Over the next few months we will be pruning and removing trees in Ladner-Delta.

Boundaries: North: South Arm of Fraser River Highway 17

Trees are pruned using the best arboriculture (tree care) practices. Skilled workers employed by BC Hydro are trained in both electrical safety and tree care.

4447

Only correct and proper techniques are used to eliminate any safety hazards.

bchydro.com/trees.

ding, this time from Jeremy Kelleway with 34 saves.

The chance to earn a semi-final berth took a hit with a 6-2 loss to the previously winless Kitchener Jr. Rangers. The Ontario squad outscored the Wild 5-1 over the final 40 minutes. Michael Regush had both Wild goals.

Delta bounced back with a 4-3 shootout win over Canadian Sport School Hockey League rival Okanagan Hockey Academy Prep White. Keenan Scardina scored twice, while Embree notched his second of the tournament to look after the Wild scoring. Kelleway got the win.

South Delta Minor Hockey alumni and Edmonton Oil Kings prospect Jordan Dawson was named a Divisional All-Star thanks to his stellar work on the blueline.

He also recorded three assists.

The Wild head back to the Interior this weekend to resume their CSSHL schedule with games against both Okanagan Hockey Academy teams, as well as Compete Hockey Academy.

Deliver the news twice a week and EARN EXTRA MONEY

South: Highway 17 West: Pacific Ocean

For more information about this work, please call Ernie Turra at 604 543 1506.

For more information on our vegetation management practices, please visit

GORD GOBLE

U18 Wild begin new year at Kelowna International tourney

POWER LINE TREE PRUNING AND HAZARD TREE REMOVALS LADNER-DELTA

East:

BY

U18 Delta Wild’s Isaac Embree looks to shake off the hook of a Yale Academy opponent during Canadian Sport School Hockey League Prep Division action last month at Planet Ice.

We are looking for youth and adult carriers to deliver the Delta Optimist Wednesdays and Fridays in Ladner and/or Tsawwassen.

Call us for more information at 604-942-3081 or by email at distribution@delta-optimist.com

January 14, 2015 The Delta Optimist A21

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A22 The Delta Optimist January 14, 2015

#1 IN SOUTH DELTA!

*

2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014.

On August 14, 2014, we asked for the Fraser Elliot group to come to our home and not only give us a free evaluation of the value but more importantly to us was what they would do to increase we had our home on the market with a different realtor for 5 months and in the last 2 months it had only been shown once per month and we felt this was not adequate. After hearing of the many forms of advertising and exposure to the market, how they would pay a stager to meet with us and tell us the best way to use existing furniture and space to make the home more appealing we were impressed and then discussed pictures and virtual tours.The pictures and virtual tour were amazing and obviously done by a professional. After seeing them on line both my wife and I jokingly agreed if we did not already own the home, we would buy it.We signed a listing agreement that same day.Since that time we have had 11 showings, and 2 offers to purchase. The has resulted in the sale of our home on September 22, 2014.Immediately after each and every showing we received a follow up call from which ever member of the team showed the home with information on how the showing went, this was much appreciated and did not leave us in the dark wondering about feedback.Any phone calls we made to the team were either answered in person or returned within 5 minutes.The home they sold for us was a single family dwelling and we still own a condo that without a doubt will be listed by the Fraser Elliot Group should they want it at the time.The service was unbelievable, professional and we would recommend the Fraser Elliot Group to anyone wanting to buy or sell a home.

- Ken and Jocelyn Pike

We had excellent service from the Fraser Elliott team with our recent house sale. We would particularly like to recognize the expertise and advice provided by the team as well as the effective advertising. Thank you!

- John Higenbottam Thanks for all of the showings and work you did to sell the place. We won't hesitate to recommend you to our friends and family.

- Mike Carston & Leslie Valair

We wanted to thank you for all your efforts in selling our home here in Ladner. There were a number of points that really stood out for us through the whole process. · Team work ? there was a real sense of team work among all the staff at Fraser Elliott Remax. We felt everyone was working toward the common goal of selling our house in an effective manner and for the desired price. · Communication ? throughout the sales process there was clear and consistent communication provided to us including interest in the house, potential opportunities, and the current state of the Ladner housing market. This was critical in establishing and maintaining trust throughout the sales process. · Relevant advise ? there were a many times where advice was offered but it was done in a manner whereby the reasons for the advice were clearly articulated, but ourselves to make without any pressure. us feel Fraser Elliott Remax had our best interests at heart. · Marketing strategy ? we really appreciated your use of leading edge strategies to market our home, particular your use of social media. We really felt our home was being exposed to many potential buyers that perhaps traditional marketing methods would never have reached. It also showed the commitment of Fraser Elliot Remax to invest money in marketing our house. In summary, we really enjoyed our experience working with Fraser Elliott Remax and would have no hesitation in recommending the company to anyone interested in buying or selling a home. As you know, we have now asked you to be our realtors as we look for our new home - Graeme and Veronique Byrne

When we made the discussion to sell our home we had a number of real estate agents in mind, we decided to start with Fraser Elliott to do an evaluation on our home and discuss the marketing process, on completion of the discussion we determined there was no need to discuss our home sale with other real estate agents. The home preparation and marketing was above and beyond our expectations, throughout the listing and showing process they were always in communication with us. The Fraser Elliott Real Estate Group are truly professionals when it comes to real estate business and are No. 1 for good reason. Would not hesitate to call upon their services in the future and highly recommend them to anyone looking to sell of purchase real estate.!

To all the staff at Fraser Elliott Group, The one word that seems to exemplify your company is enthusiasm, from each of the staff that had anything to do with the sale, each of you showed such enthusiasm and gave us such support, you have no idea who much that had been lacking from previous efforts.Another word is professionalism, every detail was handled with such a competence and professionalism, the staging advice, the incredible photography even the impressive wording on the

It used to be that to sell a house you engaged a Realtor to provide an MLS listing and hope for a sale. Fraser Elliott with his team at the Fraser Elliott Group have completely changed the role of the Realtor in South Delta. potential listing through to the removal of subjects you knew someone was in control and driving the sale, at no time did we feel we were in a wait and see what happens relationship. Whether you are looking to sell your home or buy a new home, we would strongly recommend the Fraser Elliott Group.

- Steve and Julie Knight

of Fraser Elliott’s excellent service came with the sale of our property in That in itself, speaks more eloquently than any other praise we might offer.

And we do offer that praise, and, recommendation to anyone who is looking for enthusiastic, professional and excellent service in their real estate company. Look no farther than Fraser Elliott! With our thanks, - Alex and Cindy Adamson

We are so happy with the job that the Fraser Elliot team did for us. They helped us with selling our current home and Garrett have tons of experience and are extremely professional agents. We liked the extras that came with Fraser Elliot.

The team approach meant we never needed to wait to talk to someone if we had a question. The free consultation with an interior designer/stager was a nice touch. Our house sold in no time and we found our dream home!

- Leeann K. and Brian T.

I couldn't be happier with the Fraser Elliot Team!!! They really give you and experience when selling your home.

From the photography, the stager, the realtors who all work together. They honestly give you the best of the best.

The Fraser Elliot team work hard for you and are so professional and just as important ... personable. They came recommended to me,and I would only recommended them to anyone looking to sell or buy! I honestly don't think the outcome for my sell would have been the same with anyone else! Thank you Garrett, Amber, Fraser, Julie and everyone else on the team!

- Adrienne Fahr It was a pleasure working with you on the sale of our house. My uncle was thrilled that the sale went through so quickly, and for full asking price! We’ve already recommended your services to others.

- John Fotheringham

The Fraser Elliott Team, l'd like to take this opportunity to extend my gratitude to you and your entire staff on what l consider to be an outstanding job on meeting you told me that you would treat the sale of my condo the same way you would handle selling a $3 million home. You and your team stood by your word and did exactly that. I couldn't be happier! With the extremely tight window time you and your team was working with you performance by you all and my thanks and gratitude for all your hard work. I feel privileged to have met and worked together with such a congenial group as yourselves and will pass my positive recommendations on the appropriate people. Thanks again for the outstanding effort you all put in for me. Sincerely, - Dave Ennis

- John & Karen Fahr

Nobody sells more real estate than Fraser in Ladner / Tsawwassen*

* Based on number of sales in 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014!

This representation based on Greater Vancouver Real Estate Board 2014 Statistics.

604.728.2845

www.fraserelliott.com

Fraser Elliott Personal Real Estate Corporation / RE/MAX Progroup Realty 5360 12th Avenue, Delta, BC. V4M 2B3

January 14, 2015 The Delta Optimist A23

Here are just some of our many testimonials we've received from our recent clients.

Over the past few months I have had the pleasure of dealing with the Fraser Elliott Group.

My mother's condo had been on the market for 18 months with two separate realtors. We had taken the suggestions of the last realtor and had the place completely painted with a neutral pallet but alas, it sat empty for the next few months with only a couple of showings. I had hesitated in calling Fraser Elliott Group because in all honesty, they had so many listings and I didn't think they would pay much attention to call them and was pleasantly surprised. Their professionalism, track record and assurance that mom's condo was just as important as any listing they had as well as their explanation of their unique marketing strategies made me we accepted an offer on the condo, fairly close to list price (which was the same price as the previous realtor had listed it). Unfortunately before subjects were removed, the deal fell through however, Fraser Elliott Group had another offer quickly and the condo sold close to list price. The condo was basically sold in just over a month with this group in a market that, we decided to sell our family home. There was a lot of sentiment involved in the decision as it is the home my father built. in 1968 with pride and love. We bought the home from my mom 15 years ago after my dad passed away and happily raised our children there. When Fraser and Garrett came to see us I expressed that I did not want to sell to someone who was going to tear it down and it was important that the people who buy the house loves it as much as we have. They didn't make me feel silly, in fact I believe they empathized with how I must be feeling. The interest was overwhelming once listed. The drive by's and showings were numerous and the house sold within 6 days to the perfect young couple who look at the home as theirs for the next 40 years. Presently my daughter is using Fraser Elliott Groups buyers She has been wonderful and patient with our involved all the way on the side lines and Jennifer could have easily deferred to me a number of times, but is dealing directly with our daughter teaching and walking her through this monumental step in her life. Fraser Elliott's team has been so professional, patient and understanding. They've explained who they are, how they market and walked us through every stage giving us sound advice every step of the way. They provided a consult with a stager for hints to make the house look better for pictures and showings; there was plenty of notice given for showings; the photographer was professional and quick with an awesome results; the person that came in to take accurate measurements of house and property Elliott Group is #3 in the world. The team is so professional and so on the ball. They take all of your comments and concerns to heart , offer their client. I highly recommend their services.

In my opinion and having dealt with a number of realtors recently, they are the best out there.

- Janelle Clegg

Our home had een on the market for two years with little success when we resolved to contact Fraser Elliot and his group in order to market the property. What attracted us initially and what we wanted to take advantage of, was Fraser's comprehensive marketing plan.

What we didn’t expect was was the quality of the professionals in his group that handled all aspects of marketing and sale. The service they delivered was thorough, timely and effective. Above all, the service felt personal. Our home was SOLD within two months of listing at a price point we were very comfortable with. Perfect!

- Peter Woeste Our experience working with the Fraser Elliott group on the sale of our home, was great. We really liked the team approach that they provided. Always someone at the your house. The showings were by appointment rather than open house which we really liked. We also really appreciated Kash (a stager) that they provided free of charge, to help us get the home ready for photos and staging. I’m not sure we would have thought of that ourselves and it really helped. We had extra furniture to move and the free loaner moving truck provided came in handy when moving it to a storage unit. The team of Garrett, Amber and Rachel who primarily showed our home were all great to deal with, friendly and personable, and the feedback they gave us after viewings, kept us positive.

There were weekly updates and it really felt that the team was doing everything they could, to ensure our house got the exposure needed and the right buyer was found. Thank you to every member of the Fraser Elliott Group!!

- Rosalind Cleroux

team is… some kids took our for sale sign as a prank and put down the street. Fraser’s team had it back in its spot before we even knew it was gone! This is the second time we have used Fraser Elliott to sell our home and we cannot say enough about

From past real estate experience by a team of experts is the way to sell a home. Hence, when we decided to sell our Ladner home a call to Fraser Elliott was the logical

where Fraser and Garrett spent three hours discussing the upcoming sale to having the sold sign on two weeks

Fraser and his group exceeded all our expectations. Firstly, the marketing done by Fraser Elliott is targeted to a larger and better

time we used Fraser to sell our home it was done in a day!!! Now as we look to buy another home we are working with one of his team again!! We would recommend him to our friends and family in a minute!! Thanks so much to all of you for your hard working in getting the job done!!

local realtors .The professionalism and communication skill of the entire group is exceptional Our main contact was Garrett Chu who kept us constantly informed of any new developments. The team approach, with back-up in the

- Sandra and Philippe

seamless.We would not hesitate to recommend Fraser Elliott to our friends and acquaintances.

Fraser’s team are experts in their of communication with me, I couldn’t believe they were at every showing and giving me feedback on how it went. I could tell right away that Fraser heavily invests in selling your product, from advertising material, videos, photography, facebook, newspapers, web presence and he even sent a complimentary stager to re-arrange my home to maximise our selling potential.

I don’t know why you wouldn’t use Fraser Elliott to sell your home.

- Ian

I am beyond thrilled and relieved.

Thank you and your team for all the hard work and effort you put into the selling of my home and the purchase of the condo. You are the best!!

- Brenda Swinglehurst Thank you so very much for all your hard dedicated work in selling my mom’s house. We appreciate SO much everything you did and how hard you worked to sell the house...we will HIGHLY recommend you in the future!!

- Diane DeMille and family

- John and Shirley Jaye

Working with Fraser, and his amazing team, has been an all around great experience from day one. We had listed our house previously with a different agent and were not excited about the process of trying to sell our home again.

We took their advice on pricing and any little changes we could do to make our home look its very best, and we were thrilled to accept a great offer within a few days, before it even hit MLS! We could not be happier with our decision to go with Fraser and his team and would highly recommend them to anyone buying or selling in the South Delta area. Thanks!

- Ash and Laura Thomas

TOP 100 RE/MAX REALTORS WORLDWIDE**

www.fraserelliott.com

*Based on Sales in 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014. *Based on Greater Vancouver Real Estate Board 2014 Statistics. ** Based on Completed transactions in the 2011 and also 2012 years For residential and commercial commissions combined. ** Out of nearly 88,000 REMAX sales associates worldwide.

As recognized by the REMAX INTERNATIONAL achievement award given to Fraser for 2011 & 2012!

January 14, 2015 The Delta Optimist A27

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A28 The Delta Optimist January 14, 2015

bchonda.com

604-207-1888

www.richmondhonda.com

†Based on IHS Automotive: Polk Canadian New Retail Vehicle Registrations as of CYTD November 2014 for the Compact SUV/Compact Car/Subcompact Car segments as defined by Honda Canada Inc. *Limited time weekly lease offer and all other offers are from Honda Canada Finance Inc., on approved credit. #The weekly lease offer applies to a new 2015 CR-V LX 2WD model RM3H3FES/Civic DX model FB2E2FEX/Fit DX model GK5G3FE (“Specified Models”) for a 60-month period, for a total of 260 payments of $69.89/$41.91/$39.97 leased at 1.99%/0.99%/2.99% APR based on applying $400.00/$350.00/$1050.00 “lease dollars” (which are deducted from the negotiated selling price before taxes). ‡In order to achieve $0 down payment, dealer will cover the cost of tire/battery tax, air conditioning tax (where applicable), environmental fees and levies on the 2015 CR-V LX 2WD, Civic DX and Fit DX only on customer’s behalf.

Down payment of $0.00, first weekly payment and $0 security deposit due at lease inception. Total lease obligation is $18,171.40/$10,896.60/$10,392.20. Taxes, license, insurance and registration are extra. 120,000 kilometre allowance; charge of $0.12/km for excess kilometres. **MSRP is $27,685/$17,245/$16,070 including freight and PDI of $1,695/$1,495/$1,495 based on new 2015 Specified Models described above. License, insurance, registration and taxes are extra and may be required at the time of purchase. £For more information about the 2015 Motor Trend Sport/Utility of the Year® award, visit http:// www.motortrend.com/oftheyear/suv/2015_honda_cr_v_is_the_motor_trend_suv_of_the_year/ ΩFor more information about the AJAC’s Best Small Car (Under $21,000) award, please visit: http://www.ajac.ca/web/ccoty/2015/comparison_category.asp?cat=176 */#/**Prices and/or payments shown do not include a PPSA lien registration fee of $30.31 and lien registering agent's fee of $5.25, which are both due at time of delivery and covered by the dealer on behalf of the customer on Specified Models only. Offers valid from January 3rd through February 2nd 2015 at participating Honda retailers. Dealer may sell/lease for less. Dealer trade may be necessary on certain vehicles. Offers valid only for British Columbia residents at BC Honda Dealers locations. Offers subject to change or cancellation without notice. Terms and conditions apply. Visit www.bchonda.com or see your Honda retailer for full details.