Witheachticketpurchase,you’refunding state-of-the-artequipment,groundbreaking research,andlife-savingtreatments across Vancouver GeneralHospital(VGH),UBC Hospital, VancouverCoastalHealth Research Institute,G.F.Strong RehabilitationCentre, and VancouverCommunity HealthServices.
Asthelargest,mostspecialized hospitalin theprovince–andthe numberoneadult healthcarereferral centre –VGH provides world-classcarethatpatients in BC can’t get anywhereelse.
Helpussave lives. Do it forVGH,plus you.
SD Sun Devilsare B.C. volleyballchampions
IAN JACQUE S
ijacque s@ delta-optimis t. co m
The South Delta SunDevilsare your 4A senior girls’ provincial volleyball champions.
The SunDevils claimed theirfirst provincial championshipin11 years with an impressive run in Kelowna.
Afterdropping their opening pool play matchto Kelowna (2-1), South Delta won thenext six matches -- Heritage Woods, (2-0), Lord Tweedsmuir, (2-0), Dover Bay (3-0)in the roundof16, Okanagan-Mission (3-1) inthequarterfinal, Walnut Grove (3-0) inthe semifinalandEarl Marriott (3-2) in a thrilling championshipfinal Saturday night.
The last championshipforthe senior girls at SDSS was in2014.
“It’s very exciting,” saidheadcoach Dan Burgess. “Superexcited that this particular group of girls was able to, in my opinion,live up to the expectations that they brought. They are anamazing group. So many ofthemare carr ying on with some post-secondar y opportunities So many ofthem have had previousaccomplishmentsin Grade8, Grade10and club volleyball. The parts were allthere, but in sportsthat doesn’t
guarantee anything, so inthis case, it was exciting that itall came together at the right time.”
Burgesssaidthefinal wasa nailbiter
“It wasa real rollercoaster. The draw
worked out great giventhat wewere inthe second pool. Someoftheother favouritesinthe tournament faltered a bit, so to get the road we had to the final, we expected those teams, but inthefinal,
a bitof a surprise whenEarl Marriott beat Kelowna, but they area tough team, buta team wewere familiar with,” he said.
“Ourthird set was terrible. We barely lost the second set, but huge resilience fromthe girls to come back and win the fourth set and power through and win thefifth set, 15-11. This group doesnot panic. Were we upset that we lost inthe semifinals at South Frasers?Ofcourse But they bounced back inepicform. Fora lotofthem, this was their last shot at this. We had seven Grade12sonthe team andfive ofthem starting.”
He saidthe schoolcommunity is very excited forthe team
“When you are coaching, you are kind ofin a vacuum sometimes, focusing on thenext gameandthenext set, but as soonas wewon, I must have had 100 texts,” he said. “You are reminded how many peopleare invested inthis.”
This year’s championship team includs: Payton Kilpatrick, Brianna McKee, Selina Dhillon, Miyla Gooch, RyanAssaly, Faye Beatty, Taylor Nyeste, Elle Philipott, Katelyn Brotherston, Abby Turner, Paige Achtymichuk, Alexa Wight, ElliotEade, Rebecca Prisecaru. Coaching staff : Dan Burgess, Taka Katsube, Gatlin Saipand Mike Kilpatrick.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
UPFRONT
Health authority reviews done by next year
CONTINUED from Page 1
““We do reach out toeach other We do support each otherinthe care of our community.
“We have shortages. Weknow that in health care,” sheadded, saying they have to work closely withdoctors to ensure patientsare getting timely care.
She saidshe’s also reviewing to seeif more efficient ways can be found to do things “There have beenlotsof great things happening in our community in regard to health care,” Wiebe said.
The health authority reviews will be done by earlynext year.
But Doctors of BC are not includedin the health authority reviewprocess, said president Dr Charlene Lui.
They have beenasking to be involved in that andany resulting decision making, sheadded.
“Doctors of BC is very eager to collaborate withthe Ministry of Healthand the health authorities withtheir review,and we stand ready toparticipate,” she said. Andalthoughdoctors areon theexecutive team, there are nophysicianson Fraser Health’s current board ofdirectors.
But Lui says there should be Physiciansare onthefront lines in the health-care systemand can understand trends earlier, she said. “Andalso, physiciansare able to have creative, and
usually quite simple solutions, to the problems before theproblems get so complex
“So, would ithelp to have physicianson the board ofany health-care organization orany tablethat’s making decisions about health care? Absolutely,” Lui said.
However, every coupleof years, Doctors of BC runs a survey to seehow doctors feel about how health authoritiesare engaging withdoctors, she added.
They can also give input onlineand through regionaladvocatesinhospitals
However, the focus ofthehealth authority reviewisonadministrative efficiencies, notfront-line services, the Ministry of Health said by email.
The reviewprioritized hearing fromall staff, including staffaffiliated with Doctors of BC andthe College of Physiciansand Surgeonsof BC, said theministry. Whilethe reviewdidnot explicitly engage Doctors of BC orthe college, Doctors of BC didtheir own engagement withtheirmembershipand sent in comments, saidtheministry.
Asked ifoneimprovement couldhelp efficiency, Lui saidcreatinga system so that patients’ electronicmedical recordsfrom various sourcesare accessibleacross thehealth-care system, wouldhelp
Raffle proceedsbenefit anew playground at thecommunitycenter
IIO continues investigation intoarrest by Deltapolice
Suspect was injuredin2024
IAN JACQUE S
ijacque s@ delta-optimis t. co m
later released. “The man required furthermedicaltreatment and theIIO can now confirm his injuriesdomeetthe thresholdof serious harm as defined in Part 11ofthe Police Act,” theIIO saidin a news release.
SponsoredbyPoint RobertsParkandRecreation Districtand Circle ofCare
SaltwaterCafe 1345GulfRd.
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The Independent Investigations Office(IIO)of B.C. isproviding an updateto aninvestigationinto a 2024 arrest in Delta
The IIO was first notified about the incident in April 2025 and began investigating.
Shortly after 5 p.m. on Sept 24,2024, officers responded to a call abouta man blocking customeraccess at a gas station neartheintersectionof56th Street and 16th Avenue
Policelocated the manand spoke to him before trying to detainhim. Officers later used less-lethal forceas well asa policedog to arrest the man. The man suffered injuriesduring the interaction with police. He was taken to a hospitalfortreatment and forassessment under the Mental Health Act and
“To date, theIIO has completed interviews(with) several involved officers. Investigators have also collected video evidence, including police bodyworn cameras They expect to conduct furtherinterviews withcivilian witnesses.”
The investigation into the incident continues and theIIOisasking anyone with relevant informationorvideo footage to contactthe Witness Line toll-free at 1-855-446-8477orvia thecontact form ontheiiobc.ca website.
The IIOisthe independent civilian oversight agency ofofficers and detention guardsin B.C.
It inve st ig at esallincidentsinvo lvin g officer s ordetention gu ardsth at re su ltin se ri ou s ha rm or d ea th, whetheror not there isan y alle ga tion ofwron gd oin g.
OTARY’S
CHRISTMAS inthe PARK
~afestivalfor childrenofallages ~
SingCarolsDecorateCookies Roast MarshmallowsStorybookWalk Face Paintingandsomuchmore! at Diefenbaker ParkinTsawwassen Sunday, December7th~ 3:00 -5:30pm MeetSanta!
Seconddegreemurderchargedlaid in connectionto fatal vehiclefire
IAN JACQUE S
ijacque s@ delta-optimis t. co m
A charge of second-degree murder has been laid againstaDelta man in connection to a fatal vehicle fire in late October.
On Oct. 26, Delta police responded to a report of a motor vehicle incident and subsequent vehiclefire in the7000block of Hwy.17.
Tragically,the vehicle’s solefemale occupant was pronounced deceased at the sceneand was identified as30-yearold Mandeep Kaur, of Delta.
“During the early stages of theinvestigation, thecircumstances surrounding theincident appeared suspicious, prompting anextensive investigation by the Delta police major crime section,” said Delta policein a news release.
Gurjot Singh Khaira, 24, of Delta, the victim’s brother-in-law, was arrested on Nov. 6.
On Nov. 7,he was charged with indignity to human remains He was remanded intocustody.
Achargeofsecond-degreemurder hasbeenlaidagainsta Deltaman followinga fatalvehiclefireonHwy. 17 in October.
Then on Nov. 25, Crown counsel approved a charge of second-degree murder against Khaira.
Khaira’s next court appearanceis on Dec. 11.
“In consideration of the ongoing investigation andlegal proceedings, no furtherdetails will be released at thistime,” said Delta police. “The Delta Police Department extendsits sincere condolences to thefamily of Mandeep Kaur during thisdifficulttime.”
EYEVISIONOPTICAL
More unsafe trucks takenoffthe road
SANDOR GYARMATI sg yarm ati@delta
-o ptimis t. co m
More unsafecommercialtrucks were takenoffthe road recently.
TheDelta Police Department (DPD)noted that on Nov. 24,the department’s Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Unit (CVEU) partnered with New Westminster Police, Burnaby RCMP, BC Highway Patrol RCMP, Surrey Police Service (SPS) andprovincial Commercial Vehicle Safety and Enforcement (CVSE)for a Joint Force Operation (JFO) focused oncommercial vehicle safety.
At aDelta Police Board meeting this May, Delta Chief Const. Harj Sidhu noted they had already seen a high outof-ser vice rate for commercialtrucks that under went roadsideinspections He said road safety has been identified as a top issue in a community survey, withoneoftheareas ofconcern being commercial vehicle safety and enforcement.
“I do want to emphasize that these aren’t random checks of ever y truck out there. Based on their training, they (CVEU) are targeting vehiclesthat believe may not be in compliance.I don’t want it to beperceived at allthat withalltruckingout there, that 65 per cent are not in compliance with safety regulations, but theonesthey identify that are potentially at-risk, itis highand quite concerning,” said Sidhu.
A vehicle is placed out of service when it presentsoneormore serious safety risks such asfaulty brakesor steering, missing brake lights, unsecured or improperlylabelled dangerous goods or a driver without a valid licence
City planning more Ladner Villageinfrastructure upgrades
SANDOR GYARMATI
sg yarm ati@delta-optimis t. co m
The Cit y of Deltacontinues to get Ladner Villag e ready for future grow th.
A re quest forproposals has be en issued for a consultingengineering company to de veloppreliminar y and detaile d desig ns to upgrade approx imately 320 metresofexisting sanitar y sewer, 300 metres ofexisting drainag e mainand400 metres of existing water mainon Chisholm Stre etand Ge orgia Stre et.
The consultant is to also de velopa servicing desig n forthecity-owned lot inthe4900-blo ck of Chisholm Stre et that could be come a future hoteland commercialcomplex
The plansanddesig ns w ill supp or t future grow thfortheLadner Re vitalizationArea, thecit y notes
The existing sanitar y trunk mains along Chisholm Stre etand Ge orgia Stre et have be enin servicefor approximately 60 years and re quire upgrades
to accommo date planne d higherdensity inthearea, according to thecity, adding that tender-ready draw ings andcontract sp ecificationsshould be completed no later than October 2026.
The mainlineupgradesare anticipate d to be constructed within afiveyearplan.
Servicing to the city-owned Chisholm Stre et site is to be prepared in a separate design packag e. That servicing finaldesig n is to be completed by March 2026for construction by city crewsin April 2026.
The cit y re cently had se ction of Trenant LaneandBridge Stre et clos ed intermittently for the replacement of a sanitar y sewer main.
Work has already be encompleted on an Elliott Stre et sanitar y upgrades proje ct, which involved theconstructionofa new sanitar y gravit y main and a sanitar y forcemain.
That new sanitar y sewer gravit y replacement isalong Elliott Stre et from Bridge Stre et to the re cently built 51st Stre et Pump Station.
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OPIN ION
Votersopentomajorelectoral reform
MARIOCANSECO L od est ar M edia
Bythistimenextyear, British Columbians will be experiencing theirfirst days undernewly elected mayors andcouncils
Voterturnouthas beendismal inmost municipalelections sincethe terms of mayors andcouncillors were extendedto four yearsin2014.
At atimewhen attention to municipal politics haspeakedinB.C.,citizen participationremains low and cynicism hasincreased.
Someofthe sittingcouncils were elected with ballots cast by fewer thanone thirdofvoters.
Some maypointtothecomplexitiesof the systemtoexplainwhymanyvotersinMetro Vancouver stay away fromthe pollingstations onOctober’sthirdSaturday.
Theballot canbelong— due to thelow thresholdfor candidate registration—andthe choices canbeconfusingfor apublicusedto votingforone person at atime when choosingtheirprovincialand federal lawmakers.
When we recentlyasked Metro Vancouveritesabout municipalpolitics, justoverthree in five(61 percent) toldus theyare satisfiedwiththe“at-large system”, wherecouncillorsare electedtorepresent theentire municipality. Amovetothe“ward
system”—where councillorsare elected to representaspecific portionorneighbourhood in amunicipality—issupportedbythe sameproportion(61 percent),and risesto64 percentin Vancouver, and to 66 percentin Surrey and WhiteRock.
Recentelectoralprocesses have providedopportunities to punish incumbents at the municipallevel. At thispoint, Metro Vancouveritesasawholearemorelikelyto approveoftheir mayors (57 percent)than to disapproveofthem(33 percent). Majorities of residentsof Burnaby, NewWestminster andtheTri-Cities(69 percent), Vancouver (58 percent), Surrey and WhiteRock(also58 percent),andthefourFraserValleycities(57 percent) appear happywiththeir mayors.
Thenumbers arenot asstellarintheNorth Shore(48 per cent), Richmondand Delta(46 per cent).
When we askedabout13different issues thatmunicipalitiesdeal with,eight received apositiveendorsement frommorethanhalf of MetroVancouverites :managingparksand recreationfacilities(68 percent),providing good sanitation services(66 percent),fostering artisticandculturalactivities(60 per cent),protectingtheenvironment(58 per cent),promotingtourism(56 percent),dealingwithtransportation(55 percent), managingdevelopmentand growth(53 percent) andenhancing qualityoflife(51 percent).
Richmondand Deltaareclearly having a difficulttimemanagingdevelopment(41 per cent)andfinances(32 percent). In Surrey and WhiteRock, only35percentofresidentsare satisfiedwiththeway public safetyisbeing addressed.
Thesecould becomeimportantwedge issuesfor candidatesand partiesas we get closer to nextyear’smunicipal ballot.
Rightnow,thereisnocityinMetro Vancouverwheremostresidentsare looking at the mayorandcouncil withan eyeontotal replacement.
However, aswesaw last monthin New York City, acampaign that connects,andthat growsthe voterbase,insteadofsimplyidentifyinglike-mindedformer supporters,can emerge victorious
MarioCansecoispresidentofResearchCo.
This year,I’m looking forwardtoChristmaswith a dash ofnostalgiaand alotofhope
The Delta Optimist is amember of theNationalNewsmedia Council, whichisanindependent organization established to deal withacceptablejournalistic practices andethicalbehaviour.If youhave concernsabouteditorial content,please contacttheeditor at:ijacques@delta-optimist.com or call 604-998-3616.Ifyouarenot satisfied withthe responseand wish to file aformal complaint visitthe websiteatmediacouncil. ca or call toll-free1-844-877-1163for additional information.
’mdreamingofa white Christmasfor SouthDelta …justliketheone Iused to know,wheretrafficwas movingandhealth care wasreliable
I’mdreamingofanaffordable Christmaswith ever ytax billI pay,and ever ypresent Ibuy. Mayourdrivetothecityfinally becomemerry andbright in our neweight-lane tunnel, with two entrances to Ladner
IfIhearsleighbellsinthe snow, mayitbetheCity ofDeltawho have salted,sandedand plowed for my husband’s commute
I’mdreamingofawhite Christmasfor SouthDelta, even though Idon’t recognizethe
I’mdreaming of aChristmas where teenagersdon’t ridetheir e-bikesmorethan30km/hr so theywon’tknock medown With ever ycardIdon’t have to writeI’m gratefulfor Facebook’s TsawwassenLoopandLadner ’s Landing sosomeone canfind theirlostdog.
I’mdreaming of aChristmasI usetoknowwhen we hadapool hall,amovietheatre and bought wine inPointRoberts.
Ourmayorandcouncilare just
Community Comment
INGRIDABBOTT
liketheones Iusedtoknow, but since it’sanelection yearin2026, maytheylistenharderandwork
smarter.May ourdaysbemerry andbright when we geta primary care centreinSouth Delta, and we convincemoredoctorsto move here.
Humour aside,Irving Berlin’s1942 classicsong White Christmas conjuresup ourdesire forhomeand safety,innocence and peace
Themessage ishopefulas Berlin remindsusof simpler times,whileaskingustodream of abetterfuture.
My holiday wishisthat our communitycangrowand glisten at the sametime.
Letters
This iswhatis called, ‘Growth, Yes’
Editor :
Well, hereIfind myself needingtoexplainpreemptivelybeforethe usualnegativecomments aboutchangeanddevelopmentinTsawwassen regardingthe clearing of the property at 51stStreet and 8A Avenue.
Iamoneofthe ownerswho alsohappens to livetwo doorsfromthis developmentand hasthe pleasureofexplainingto my neighbourswhat the planisforthisnewhousingelement.
Havinglived on8A Avenuefor atotalof45 yearsofmylife,inthree differenthouses, with my parentsandfamily,and nowmywifeandfamily, I do have alot to comment on, andanswertoo.
Ihadtheunique plea-
sure of talkingtothe daughteroftheoriginal ownersofthe32,000-sq. ft.propertythatisnow cleared. Iwas able to seepicturesofwhenher parentsbuilt thehouse in1960and sawthatthe property wasbasically clear cutofitsforestcanopyandmostofthetrees were plantedafterthe housebuild at thetime
Unfortunately, the house, foundationand indoorpoolstructure had beengreatlydamaged by thecedarandfirtrees’ rootsastheygrewand heaved theground. Now, totoday. We revamped this development from seven single-familyhomes to fourfourplexs, oncethe provincial government mandated municipal
housingchanges
Theprice pointof thesenew2,000-sq.-ft. houses will be less than half ofwhat the seven newhouses would have been. Thisbrings housingoptions to a demographicwho are currentlymovingoutof Tsawwassen-- ademographicthat includes twoofmychildrenwho refused to stay in Metro Vancouverandsuffer huge mortgages to owna decent-sized home. We areworking with aTsawwassen-based architecture firmtobuild housingthat will blend into theneighbourhood, asthe last thing Iwantis for my neighbourstobe upset withthefinished product.
KevinMcDonald
Asafeplacetoshare yourgrief
Editor:
Formany, Advent and Christmasare aspecial season filledwithgreat eventcelebrations, music, specialconcerts, giftexchanges, lights,etc
Forthemit maybethe most beautifultimeof the year.Joy and singing areintheair,despiteall the businessadvertisingandconsumerismin
largepartsof society. Forothers, though,this season maybeofsorrow and sadnessforthedeath of aloved one,lossofa job, disagreement and divisioninfamilyrelationships,lackofbasicphysical, material, emotional and spiritualmeans. Forthe second year, Saviour Lutheran Church hassetup ablue
Christmastreebyits mainentrance at 4737 57thSt. Thetreewill be inplaceuntilDec.25.
Thereare small cards and pencils besidethe tree.Anyoneis welcome to jotdownaspecial prayer requestandplace itonthetree.
Rev. Leonardo Neitzel/S aviour LutheranChurch
WhyamIsubsidizingother waterusers?
Editor : Re:MetroVancouver hopingtosee water meteringincrease (Optimist, Nov. 27). Ihavebeenaskingfor awatermeterfor years, to no avail.
Iliveina 1,600-sq.ft. duplex withoneand ahalf bathrooms.Idon’t flush my toiletunlessIhaveto. I have averywaterefficient washingmachineand dishwasher.Inever water my lawn and my gardenis
Mostinsuranceplans resetatyear’s end,and unused benefitsexpire. If you’ve beenputting offyoureye exam,now isthetimetobookyour appointment.For acontact lens purchase, or replacingyourglasses, just walkinanytime. We will do thebilling foryou!!
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IknowIuse ahell of alot lesswater thanthe huge houses with multiple bathroomsthat surroundme.Why am Isubsidizingtheir wateruse? Jane McCall
Historic Delta building to be demolished
SANDOR GYARMATI
sg yarm ati@delta-optimis t. co m
Deltacouncil recently granted a heritage alteration permit to allow demolitionofanexisting single-detached house and constructionof a newhouse, with secondary suite, at 4328 ArthurDr.
The Official Community Plan (OCP)designationforthe site is Small Scale Residential(SSR) and theproposed development is consistent withthat designation.
However, theproperty is also located withintheLadner Heritage ConservationArea 2 (LHCA 2)and,as such, requires a heritage alteration permitfor new construction, eventhough the existing house isnotlisted on eithertheheritage register or heritage inventory andnot protected by a conservation covenant.
A staff report notesthat the city’s heritage alteration permits have beendelegated by coun-
cil to the general manager of development under a variety of scenarios, but the demolition ofnon-heritage homes andthe constructionofnewdwellings doesnot meet thecriteria for delegation. That meanscouncil approval was still required Meanwhile, it remains to be seenhow much longera residential building upthe street that isdesignated a significant heritage structure, but isdecaying, will remain standing.
Council earlier this year voted to sendan application to build a five-storey, 80-unit rental apartment building at 4501 Arthur Dr back to the applicant.
A staff report noted the applicant advised that the rental building was notfinancially feasible withoutadditional sourcesoffunding orpreferred lending rates from outside agencies, prompting council to tellthe applicant to revise the applicationorcome back with a different housing application thatadhered to the site’s OCP
It remainstobeseenwhat revisedapplication comes back following council’sdecisiontosendaproposalto buildanew rentalapartment buildinginLadnerbackto theapplicant.
designation.
The applicationalso included thedemolitionoftheexisting heritage building ontheproperty, known as Westholmeor Delta Lodge, which has fallen into disrepair
A staff report noted the applicant “provideda building conditions report which notes itisindisrepair, unhabitable and wouldnot be desirable to salvage due to mouldand
structural damage to boththe exteriorandfoundation. The inspection report also notes that the weakness ofthe structure makes relocating thehouse infeasible.”
The applicant proposed to retain someaspectsofthe house withheritage value including thedining room ceiling andentrance panels to attempt to reuse in a new entranceanddonate the stained glass for reuse purposes.
The Westholme Residence was builtfor DavidAlexander McKee, son of John McKee, who purchased theproperty from WilliamLadnerin1904 and builtthehomein1905. The McKees soldthehouse in1925.
It remaineda private residence with several different owners until1964,whenit became a careresidence The Lord family took ownership that yearand called thefacility Melodie Court.
Subsequent owners continued the business untilit was eventually called Delta Lodge.
The care home business
was relocated overdecade ago afterFraser Healthidentified the replacement ofthe aging Ladnerfacility as a highpriority. The health region at thetime noted the building would have required significant upgrades to remain a care facility.
The privately-owned site was subsequently sold.
A subdivision application was later submitted that would accommodate theheritage structure. That application included seven single-detached bare land stratalotsandcommonproperty fordriveway access offArthurDrive.
The application received third reading by councilin November2017, but it was abandoned andtheproperty was sold again.
Four years ago, thecity received a development application to construct a 61-bed community care facility at the property.
The heritage house would have been relocated closer to ArthurDrive andfully restored as part oftheproject, but that applicationnever proceeded.
CONTEST ALERT CONTEST ALERT
Winnerwillbedrawn:
Winnerwillbedrawn:
Winnerwillbedrawn:
Deltassist Christmas food
hamper delivery day is Dec. 20
The last dayfor registration forthe Christmas foodhampers isDec. 10
Work isunderway to get Deltassist’s Christmas food hampers on to front doors by Dec. 20. Collection boxes are out inthe community and at elementary schools inpreparation for when volunteers sort throughthe donated itemsandcreate the hampers so allwho apply can have a Christmas dinner.
So far, 206families have signed up, with31 of those seniors, said Ana Awmack Juan, at Deltassist
Last year,a total of 570 food hampers were distributed with Juanexpecting about the same or
slightly more this year.
“It’s steady and I think a lot of peopleare slow at getting intheir applications. “Our goalis to try do the outreach andtry to let peopleknow these servicesare available,” Juan said.
While some sign on for food hampersfor thefirst time, others who received them last yearare now doing betterandno longerneed them
“It’s staying steady whichI think is good.”
Donations of food such as pasta, canned fish, meat, chili,hearty soups, Kraft Dinner, rice, lentils and beansare needed, as are volunteers. Collection
boxes are setup in businesses around Delta.
Members from service clubs will be sorting throughfood donations inthenext few weeks in preparationfor food hamper delivery day on Dec. 20, between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.Winter weather though may delay delivery times Recipientsare also asked to make sure dogsare inside or tied up.
Anyonewho wants to help out can call Deltassist’s main number at 604-946-9526andask for the Christmas line
The last day for registrationfor the Christmas food hampers is Dec. 10.
Dancethenightawayto avariety of CDmusicincludingwaltzes,cha chas,rumba,softrock,line dance,andswing toshake upthebestdance floorinDelta. Includes doorprizesand aMidnightChampagne Toast!
TICKETS$115
Price includes 2026KVCCMembership
Pleasepurchasetickets before December 24thbycalling 604943 0225or visitingtheKVCommunity Centre between 9–2:30pm(Mon–Fri). Ticketswillnotbesoldatthe door
t’s th at timeof ye arwhere ev er yo nein So uth De lta ca n sh a re inthe joy of ou td oo r Ch ri st ma s lights a nd Ch ri st ma s displ ay s.
Ov erthe ye ar s, th e Optim is t ha s co mp ile da lis t ofthes e wo nderful displ ay s to allo w oth e
NOTICE OF PUBLIC INFORMATION MEETING
We want to hear from you!
StackedTownhouse Proposalat686 52 Street and5236 7A Avenue
Applicant: BURO47 Architecture Inc.
File No: LU009901
The CityofDeltahas received an application fora developmentin your neighbourhood.The application isforaresidential development containing50dwellings inseven three-storey townhouse buildings.
Delta ishostinganin-person ,drop-in format,PublicInformationMeeting for this project givingyou the opportunity to learnmoreandprovide yourfeedbacktothe City.
South elta Se ondary S hool ibrary 75053Street, elta
Details on theproposalare available at letstalk.delta.ca/lu009901. Share your feedbackonlineat letstalk.delta.ca/lu009901 until December 18,2025.
Have otherquestions or comments?
ContactDeepinderDhaliwal, Planner or DevelopmentDepartment: 604.946.3380 development@delta.ca or
Deltamanchargedwith money laundering
IAN JACQUE
Lethbridge Police have chargeda Delta man with money laundering after a Lethbridge man was defrauded nearly $600,000inaninvestment scam
According to a Lethbridge Police news release, on Nov. 30, 2024, a 59-year-old male reported he had been thevictimof a scamafterconversing online about investment opportunities andproviding significant funds.
Members ofthe Economic Crimes Unitassumed theinvestigation,andit was determined that between Juneand August 2024,thevictim made multiple wire transfers to a male, who subse-
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quently converted thefundsinto cryptocurrency andtransferred them to an online exchange The male subject ultimately withdrewthefundsanddeposited themincryptocurrency accounts outside Canadian jurisdictionwhere they were unable to be recovered. Following a lengthy andcomplexinvestigation,the subject was identified,and a Canada-widearrest warrant was issued On Nov. 26,he was arrested without incident in B.C.
I Lin Chiu,36,of Delta, is charged with possessionofproperty over$5,000 and laundering theproceedsofcrime Chiu was released from custody and is scheduled to appearin Lethbridge Court of Justiceon Jan.20,2026.
S ijacque s@ delta -o ptimis t. co m
t s that meo yearto show o yourChristmaslight dis lay urannual eaturewillrunin rint& onlineintheDec.25thedi on,butinorder to com lete ourlistweneed to hear rom you.
Submit yourname,address, hone ,somedetailsabout yourdis lay, theins ira on behindit,how longit took to setu aswellasa high resolu on hoto or hotos.
EmailyoursubmissiontoEditorlan ac uesat i ac ues delta o mist.com Andi youhavetaken artinthe ast, leasere submitas we wantto ensure nooneisle out.
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That’s Delta Police Chief Harj Sidhu’s take onthefederal government’s proposed federal bailand sentencing reforms.
“I can say as a police chief, these reformsare very much needed. We continue to see the impactsofviolent repeat offending and bail has been a major concern, raised by police right across thecountr yincluding our own team. Our role is to investigate, arrest and present evidence. But ultimately, community safety also relies on the justice system withthe right tools to manage high-risk offenders and have the resulting consequences,” Sidhu told the Delta Police Board at its Nov. 19meeting.
Last month, Ottawa announced theintroduction of the Bailand Sentencing
Reform Act, which includes over80 clauses of changes to the bailand sentencing framework intheCriminal Code. The changes arealsoaimed at improving the youth justice system
Theact would make bail stricterand harder to get, including in cases of repeat andviolent offending, the government announced,adding it wouldcreate new reverse onuses, meaning the starting point isdetentionandthe accused would have to prove why they should be released on bail.
When considering whether to grant bail,theamendments woulddirect policenot to release anaccused whenitis against the publicinterest,or detentionisneeded to protect victimsor witnesses, while the courts would be required to consider specificfactors.
Among otherthings, tougher sentencing laws would be in
Theact wouldalsoendhousearrest for certainsexualassault andchildsexualoffences, restoredrivingprohibitions for criminalnegligence causingbodilyharmanddeathandmanslaughter,as wellasstrengthenfineenforcement,thegovernmentannounced.
placefor repeat andviolent crime, including car theft andextortion,meaning those found guilty can spendmore timeinprison.
Sidhu said some sentences would be required to be served consecutively, ratherthanthe current practiceofconcurrently, while aggravating factors
couldalso impact sentencing such asoffences against first responders.
“That is somethingI know police chiefsacross thecountr y have been pushing for, as sadly we’ve seen many officers that have lost theirlivesinthe last several years and many officers being assaulted So,I thinkit’s definitelya good change inthe right direction to recognize that our officers out there are providinga serviceanddoing a job, but that doesn’t meanthey should be assaulted inany way orthreatened,” he said.
Sidhu added they are looking for ward to the laws being passed andinplacefor2026, and will work withprovincial partners.
The changes to theCriminal Code by thefederal government willonly be effective if provincialand territorial governmentsdotheir part in supporting theirimplementation, thefederal government says
DELTA POLICEPHOTO
It’scold,it’s Canada,so dealwithwinterdriving
PHIL MELNYCHUK
Motoristshavetobe prepared forwhatever OldMan Winter throws at them,saysICBC, in anews releasetitledBe Winter Ready.
TheCrown corporation says crash numbersspike in the coldermonths, withcollisions caused by drivingtoo fastforconditions up by 79 percentin Decemberand64 percent in January— compared to the averagenumberof crashes in October.
Thestatsarebased on afive-yearaveragesfrom 2020 to 2024.
“Weurgedriversto
slow down,watch for pedestrians,and make sure your vehicleis ready for winterdriving,”said Kathleen Nadalin,ICBC road safetymanager,sayingthat roadconditions canchangequickly.
“Safe winterdriving requires good tiresand slower speeds,”adds Cpl. Michael McLaughlin, with the RCMP’s BC HighwayPatrol.
“Check yourvehicle and yourself beforeevery trip.Ifyou’renot ready for badweather,don’t risk aticketorworse.”
snowflake orM+S symbol on the sidewallof the tire. Ensure treaddepth is at least3.5mm.Both the all-season(M+S)
tires and the mountain/ snowflake tires meetthe requirementsfor winter tiredesignationin B.C.
•M+Stiresarea safe
optionif youencounter winterconditionson a limited basisand you’re prepared to drivewith care and caution.
•Ifyou liveortravelin anarea whereyou regularly expectsnowand ice,ICBCrecommends that allfourtires have the mountain snowflakesymbol. “Theyare the best wintertires available,” says ICBC.
“Mostofusonly encounterwinterconditions such asice,slush, or hard-packedsnowon a limitedbasis.With this inmind, good qualityallseasonM+Stires maybe finefor you.
“However,ifyou live
inanarea that regularly receives snow,goskiing often,orenjoy otherwintersports, your vehicle should be outfittedwith fourmountain/snowflake wintertires,” says ICBC.
Andensuretiresare properly inflated,checking the pressure whenthey arecold.Pressure dropsin colderconditions
•Prepare vehicle: Check lightsandwipers, have a windshield scraperand brush handy, topupwindshield washer fluidand pack anemergencykit.
•Plan:Ifconditionsare bad,considernotdriving, says ICBC. If youmust drive, allowextra time and checkdrivebc.cafor roadconditions.
•Drive accordingto the conditions
Designedwith circularprinciples in mind,SecondCut™ Fleece is craftedwith pre-consumer Smartwool®Merino wool scraps. Availablethis Holiday season at TheRuninn!"
FILEPHOTO
Tsawwassenpathway planirks somehomeowners
Council members expressed concern overthe potential of losing government grant funding for the project if it is delayed
SANDOR GYARMATI
sg yarm ati@delta-optimi st .c om
Deltacouncil recently agreed to have thecity manager review a plan to extend a new multi-use pathway in Tsawwassen in response to objections raised by several homeowners.
The city received a joint letter fromthe six property owners on55A Streetcomplaining that the proposed pathway extensionisnotneeded or desired, also outlining several concernsincluding potential loss oftheir
property values They want theextension halted anda review ofalternatives.
Mayor George Harvie brought forward the letter, prompting staff to come back with a report to respond He noted other concerns that “are materialimpactson daily living and long-term property value.”
Noting the Winskill project isup to three years fromcompletion, Harvie saidtheproperties are currently part ofan ongoing landassembly initiative and “there is
nopressing operational requirement that forces this pathway alignment along these homes right now.”
Part of Delta’s Cycling Master Plan,theongoing 56 Street Multi-Use Pathway project wasa 3.5- metre-wide pathway on56th Street between 6thand8A avenues, as wellas a shared roadway for cyclistsalong 8A Avenueand55A Street to Winskill Park
The originalproject scope proposed the pathway was to have it to extendonly asfaras56th
Streetand8A Avenue, giventheengineers’ cost estimate at thetimeand available budget
Noting feedback indicated that the project received strong community support, with feedback also expressing a desire for a continuous off-road pathway to Winskill Park, the staff report notes a revised plan was developed extending the multi-use pathway along 8A Avenue and55A Street to create a continuous pathway from Winskill Park to Southlands
The revised project scope would be within the available budgetand
was reviewed withcouncilinconjunction with an approval to acquire a smallcorner cut at 8A Avenueand55A Street, the report notes, adding theproposed alignment along 8A Avenueand55A Street would be entirely within municipal road dedicationand wouldnot require private property
Staff had considered an alternate pathway alignment along 56th Street between 8Aand Ninth avenues. However, it would require significant property acquisitionsas theexisting roaddedicationisnot sufficient to accommodatepathway improvementsand would
also impactexisting driveways, the report notes
During council’s Nov. 17discussionontheletter and report, staff reiterated theproject would be developed entirely oncity land without a need for any expropriation.
Coun. Dan Boisvert noted that the community has indicated strong support for a continuous multi-use pathway during thepreviousconsultation, adding that a pathway had been approved for 44th AvenueinLadnerthat fronts50 homes andisn’t causing problems includinga loss inproperty values
Council will get the follow-up report at its meeting on Dec. 8.
Don’tdrinkor smoke pot, anddrive,say Deltapolice
SANDOR GYARMATI
sg yarm ati@delta-optimi st .c om
Thinkingofsmokinga little cannabis,nibbling on an edibleortaking other drugs beforegetting behind thewheel? Think again.
TheDelta Police Department(DPD)is remindingmotorists that officerswill be on the lookoutforimpaired driversand that means morethanthosewho consumedalcohol.
Driverscanalso be impaired by cannabis, prescriptionmedications and otherdrugsthat affect judgment, reac-
tiontime and coordination, theDPDrecently explained,addingthat evensmallamounts can have seriousconsequences behind thewheel.
“For new drivers, the rulesareevenstricter: thereiszerotolerance foranyalcoholin your system.Thesemeasures areinplace to protect everyone on ourroads.If you’reconsumingalcohol ordrugs,planahead,”the DPDnotes.
According to the GovernmentofCanada, someofthe topreasons peopledriveafterconsumingcannabisand otherdrugs includethat
theydonotfeelimpaired, theythink theycandrive carefully,theydonot have far to drive, they donot have alternative transportationorthey do notthink theywill be caughtbylaw enforcement.
Trainedpoliceofficers and drug recognition experts candetermine if you areundertheinfluence and canchargeyou withimpaired driving, whichmeans youcan have yourlicense suspended,receivefines, criminal chargesand evenface jailtime.
Ifyou’reconvicted of drug-impaired driving, it will costyou,ICBCwarns. Penaltiesfor cannabisimpaired drivingdepend ontheamountofTHC and/oralcoholin your system,and the number oftimes you’recharged, ICBCexplains, noting penalties include fines, pointson your licence and even jailtimefor multiple offences
“Forexample,ifyou have 2ng–5ngTHCwhile driving, thisoffence car-
TheDPDis remindingpeopleoftheimportance ofplanningahead by arranginga ride, callinga friend,takingtransitorusinga ride-sharingservice.
ries amaximum$1,000 fine,butthefinefor havingmorethan5ng THCstarts at $1,000 and canescalatefromthere.
Repeat offences can carryevenmoresignificant penalties, including imprisonment,”ICBC explains
“InB.C., aconvictionfor beingaffected by drugswhiledriving mayalsomeanyou are subjecttoICBC’sDriver Risk Premium and Driver PenaltyPointPremium, and Road Safety B.C.’s DriverImprovement Program.”
HandyDARTrollsoutplanformoreandeasierrides
PHIL MELNYCHUK
HandyDARTusers should have an easier,fasterride ifits new Customer-First Plan gets going.
Theplancallsforextending servicehours, increasing the numberof HandyDARTbus trips, and easieronline24/7 booking.
Real-time updatesand vehiclelocationsalsowould be possible.
Otherfeaturesunderthe Customer-First Planinclude extendingHandyDART’s hours from midnightto2 a.m.,expandedtrainingfor HandyDART, as wellastaxi
drivers, andcontinuing with thededicated serviceprovider for HandyDART.
Theplanisa resultof a reviewand ausersur veyand still requires approvalofthe TransLink boardofdirectors, possiblyat its Dec. 3meeting.
“Theseactions build onTransLink’s Access for Everyoneplanandwillhelp TransLinkdeliverthe goalof expandingand modernizing HandyDARTservice,” said a TransLinknews release.
Throughout Metro Vancouver,about32,000 people with mobilitychallenges usethedoor-to-door paratransitservice.
Thereviewlooked athaving
HandyDARTdirectlyoperated by TransLink,instead of acontractor, butthatwas rejected becauseitwould have been moreexpensive, would notprovidedirectbenefits to customersand wouldprevent TransLink frommakingthe improvementsintheplan.
TransLink says HandyDART isoneofitshighest-ratedservices.Transdevisthecontracted operatorof HandyDART, whichser vespeoplewhoare unable to navigate theconventionaltransit system
In September2024, AmalgamatedTransit Union Local1724, approved anew contract withTransdevafter a three-weekstrike.
BGC’s10neighbourhood clubs,including Delta’sHillsideClub,offersafespaces for kids and youththroughafterschooldrop-in programsanddaycamps. Formanykidsthe club is afunplacetospendtimewith friends and meetnewoneswhilealsohelpingthem buildtheskillstheyneedtogrow intoconfident healthyadults.
With afocusonhealthy familiesandpositive relationships,Deltassistprovides awarm, safeenvironment forall.Theircommitmentto making adifference isdrivenbyadedicated teamofprofessionalsand volunteers, all workingtogethertoenrichlivesinthe community.
Last year,Deltassisthelped1,945individuals andchildrenreceivetoysand food forthe holidays.Withtherisingcostoflivingand inflation,thedemand fortheirChristmas programis expectedtoincreaseasmore families facefinancialstruggles. Donationsarevitaltosustainingthese programs,especiallytheholidayinitiatives. Withthesupportofthecommunity,aswellas thegenerosityofindividuals,businessesand partners,Deltassistaimstohelpevenmore familiesthis year
Make ameaningfuldifferenceforyour neighboursandfriendsbydonatingto the DeltaHospitalandCommunityHealth Foundationatwww.dhchfoundation.ca/ holidaywishlist.
The foundationstrengthensDelta by connectingdonorswithlocalorganizations tomeetpressingneedstodayand for generationstocome.Everydonationispooled andinvestedtoensurelong-termlocalimpact, fromscholarshipsandseniors’programsto foodbanks,environmentalinitiativesandthe arts.
The B.C. government says evenmore new homes have been delivered by municipalities with seven of10cities in thethird group that received housing targets, exceeding their targets. In a news release last
week, the Ministr y of Housing and Municipal Affairs noted that since Aug. 1,2024,the10 municipalities have deliveredmore than3,600 net-new homes, surpassing their overall Year One housing target by 143 per cent.
Communitiesidentified that are falling short
andneeding more work include North Saanich, only delivering 20 per cent of its first-yeartarget, prompting thehousing minister to consider appointing anadviser.
The government also notesthat as part of its work to ensure that communities stay on track, theprovince will require
a six-monthinterim report from theCity of Port Coquitlam.
Since September 2023, thehousing targets have resulted inmore than 25,700newhomes, across 30communities, theministr y said.
In the fall of2023, Delta was inthefirst group, givena mandated
housing target by the province to add3,607 newunits withinfive years.
The city’s small-scale multi-unit housing (SSMUH) bylaw was approved by councilin 2024, followed by the Official Community Plan (OCP)update.
According to the planning department at the time, during theprevious five years, building permitactivity generated an average of approximately 400netnewunits per year
In contrast, the housing target results in a need formore than700 netnewunits per year, on average, overfive years.
A staff report thisfall noted that theCity of Delta surpassed itshousing target forthe second reporting period.
The latest Housing TargetProgress Report, covering the period from Oct. 1,2024 to Sept. 30,2025,isanannual requirement by the province.
The staff report noted thecity surpassed the required target overthat second period by achieving 585netnewhousing units, while thetarget overthat period was 584 units.
The previous reporting period from Oct. 1,2023 to Sept30,2024, hada
target of514units, with 561unitsachieved.
The total cumulative target overthe two reporting periods was 1,098units, and1,116 units were achieved
The report alsonotes that during the latest reporting period,50 applications totalling 303proposed housing units, were withdrawn by applicantsfromthe development approval process.
Ofthat total, 118units were from a townhouse and senior care facility project that was not compliant withthe OCP, and56units were from an apartment project where the owners intend to resubmit a new applicationfor a townhouse development.
So meother ap plica nt s wi thdrewinorder to su bmi t new ap plic ationsformore units, while the re ma inin g wi thdraw n ap plic ations we re fo r si ng ledetached, duplex dw ellings, se condar y su ites andsm all to wn hous e de ve lopmen ts
The report goeson to note that Delta has been seeing developers put theirprojectson hold for extended periods, at all stagesofdevelopment, waiting formore favourable marketconditions, inorder to proceed.
SANDOR GYARMATIPHOTO
The Rubber DuckMuseum openedits doors Dec. 1,at Tsawwassen Mills,withadditionaldisplays andinteractive features planned for2026.
RubberDuck Museumopensat TsawwassenMills
Museum opened on Dec.1
It’s official:theducks have crossed the border!
The world’s first andonly Rubber Duck Museumistaking flight orfloat to its new home inside Tsawwassen Mills Mallthis winter
thebright yellow icons known today.
Take anadditional15%
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What began as a quirky sidedisplay at a Point Roberts giftshop has grown into a one-of-akind attractiondedicated entirely to the world’s most beloved bath-time icon. Now,theducks are ready to waddleinto Canada, bringing with them over a century of charm, color, and smiles.
Alongsidetheexhibits, guests will find a wide variety ofduck-themed merchandise and collectiblesfor sale, from soft silicone duckiesfor babies to elegant spa giftsforadults. Whether you comefor nostalgia, humor, or just the joy of finding your duck, there’s something here to make ever yone smile
SPECIALFINANCING FOR12MONTHS!
“We love watching people wander into the museumarea and seeing theirwholedemeanor change,” said museum owner Kr ystal King.
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“They start smiling and share stories about their own duck, whetherit was a childhood bath buddy, a giftfrom a friend, or a littledesk mascot. Then they find the perfect one to take home, and they always leave just a little lighter thanthey came in.”
The Rubber Duck Museum willfeature historical and modern ducks from across the globe— from early 1900s rubber toysto glittering, glow-in-the-dark, and pop-culture-themed creations Visitors can explore displays tracing the evolutionofthe duck from handmade European novelties to
The museum’s move followsits success as a hidden gem in Point Roberts, where itslighthearted approach drew visitors eager for something fun andunexpected The new Canadian home marksa big step forthesmall,family-run business— and a big win foranyone wholoves whimsy.
“We builtthisfrom scratch with no investors, just passion and persistence,” says Neil King, who runs the museum alongsidehis wife “We’re thrilled to bring something joyful and completely unique to Tsawwassen. We hope it makes people laugh, reminisce, and maybe even start their own duck collections.”
The Rubber Duck Museumopened itsdoorsDec. 1, at Tsawwassen Mills, with additionaldisplays and interactive features planned for 2026. -Submitted
Community
New community library for Écoledu Bois-Joli
First francophone community library for school
On Nov. 20, Écoledu Bois-Joli in Deltaproudly inaugurated itsfirst francophone community library.
An initiative rooted in the valuesthat define the francophonecommunity: collaboration, engagement, and a shared love of learning.
Thanks to the involvement of families, staff, students, andthe support of Fraser Valley councillor Chantal Fadous, the school has brought to life a free andaccessible book-sharing spacefor neighborhood families to enjoy French-language reading.
Hand-built by school parent Michael Rapier andcompleted in collaboration withartist andfellow parent Étienne Zack, the library is the resultof a truly collective effort.
Every student contributed by paintinga section ofthe structure, transforming itinto avibrant symbolof belonging and solidarity.
The project was made possible through a$375 Neighbourhood Small Grant.
This new space invites local families to borrow, exchange, and discover French books, while strengthening community connections andhelping thefrancophone culture continue to shinein Delta
-Submitted
PHOTO SUBMITTED
OnNov. 20, Écoledu
Bois-Joliin
Deltaproudly inaugurated itsfirstfrancophone communitylibrar y.
TheDelta Community Foundation,in partnership withtheCityofDelta, is pleased to announce the recipientsof Kindness Meterfundingtocharities whoseworkcontinues to make ameaningfuldiffer-
enceinDelta.
$500 to NorthDelta Rotary’sMagic Pencil Program, which provides winter clothing to elementary school children in NorthDelta
$500 to Deltassist
Familyand Community Services Societyforits ChristmasHamperprogram,supporting local familiesduringtheholidayseason.
SheltersinNorthand South Delta, helping ensuresafe,warmspaces forindividualsexperiencinghomelessnessduring severe weather.
Launchedaround WorldKindnessDay,the KindnessMeterswere created as asimpleand visible wayfor residents tochannelsmallactsof generosity toward local causes.Repurposed parkingmeters, brightly decoratedbystudentsin the DeltaSchoolDistrict, were placedinhightrafficcommunityhubs, offeringaneasyway for peopletodonate spare change whilecelebrating kindnessineverydaylife
To date,over$6,000 has beendistributed to Delta charitiesthankstothe generosity oflocalresi-
dentswhocontinue to supporttheinitiative.
“The Delta CommunityFoundation extendsheartfeltthanks to ever yonewho hascontributed to the Kindness Meters.Thesesmallacts of generositycontinue to supportvulnerable communitymembers andstrengthenthe spirit of kindnessthroughoutDelta,” says Delta CommunityFoundation presidentGillian Lowrey.
ThefiveKindness Meters arelocated at :
•Ladner Village
•TsawwassenTown Centre
•DeltaCityHall
•North Delta Recreation Centre
•SungodRecreation Centre.
Formoreinforma-
CABINET
Thereare fiveKindness Meterslocated throughout Delta.
tion aboutthe Kindness Meters,ortofindout howtosupportthe work ofthe Delta Community Foundation,Delta’s own Charityfor Charities, visit www.deltafoundation.org.
-Submitted
Community
Delta FirefightersHealthySnack Program receives PartnershipAward
BCPrincipals’&
Vice-Principals’ Association honoured recipientsNov.21
IAN JACQUE S
ijacque s@ delta-optimis t. co m
TheDelta Firefighters HealthySnack Program hasbeenhonoured with aPartnership Awardfrom the BC Principals’&VicePrincipals’Association.
Theaward waspresented to thefirefighters along withfourotherorganizations at aceremonyNov. 21 at the MarriottParq Vancouver Hotel.
“Our Partnership Awards recognizethe unwavering commitment of the recipientsandthe importanceoftheircontributions,” says BCPVPA president, Dr.Shannon Behan. “Evenbeyond that, celebratingthe awardshelpsthe BCPVPA to illuminatewhatistaking placein BC schools
everywhere intheprovince, everyday.School communitiesbenefitfrom the actions and generosity of many dedicated individuals, organizations, and businesseswhoare quietly making adifference,andwhoare truly committed to helping studentsintheircommunities to succeed and to thrive. On behalfof our members allacrossthe province,wefeelthat is worthcelebrating.”
Formorethantwo decades, the BCPVPA has presented the Partnership Awardsin recognition of thetime andexpertisethat localcitizens dedicatetosupporting BC studentsand schools Nominationsare submittedbythe BCPVPA’s 60 chapters that provideprofessional supporttoprincipalsandvice-principals acrosstheprovince.
TheDeltaSchool Districtnominated the
firefighters for the award.
“We arehonoured to be recognized for oursuccessful partnership with theDelta schools,” said firefighterWarrenBalzer. “Asfirefighters we have given acommitmentto ourcommunity, both on andoff the job. When we identifiedanemerging trendoffood insecurity, we found away to stepin and dosomethingabout it.Fromthe administration rightdowntothe Childand YouthCare workers, we have hadthe full supportfromeveryoneinthe schooldistrict.”
It wasinthedepths of darkestnight when it happened. Thefire theyhadlittokeepthem warm hadcalmedtoa coolember. Thesheep were closeathand,and everythingwasquiet Into thisdark, cold night–in thefields,far from town –anangel appeared,trumpeting good newsofgreatjoy. TheMessiahwas born! Thestory of Jesus’ birth is astory peoplecan’tstop telling. Butsometimes that storycan ring hollow. It maynotfeellike good news –itcouldfeel oldand redundant. Or perhapsitfeelsfaroff,like wishfulthinkingaboutan ancientstory thathaslittle tractionwith ourdailylife. Thisnewsmightnot be feelingasgoodthis year –andallmay notfeelmerry
Minister’s Minute
ROBCOL LI S
St.Andrew’s Church
andbright. Theangelsdeclared good newsofgreatjoy for allpeople –whichmeans that thisisalso good news forus today,no matter howthis year hasbeen. TheChristian seasonof Advent is atimeforus to prepareforthisnews.
Andthis year –nomatterwhereyou are, orhow you’redoing–Iwantto inviteyou to comeon a journeywithusthrough this seasonofpreparation. St.Andrew’shascreated afreedevotional guide to helpusenter into the seasonof Advent andpreparefor Christmas. Youcan geta free digitalcopythrough ourwebsite,orsignup to receivedailyemails by goingtowww.standrewschurch.ca/advent. Theangelsare soon to make apronouncement –Jesusis coming,our Messiahwill beborn.As we wait,won’t youcome andpreparewithus? Let us journeytogetherinto hopeandprepareroom in ourheartstoreceive Jesus’ comingasgood news!
It wasn’tthemedal colourthat they were looking for, but the Delta Pacers concludeda fantastic season with a bronze medal at the3A senior boys’ volleyballprovincialsinLangley.
After winning silver last year, the Pacers were hungry for goldand looked to be ontrack for that elusive provincial title with a strong run inthe tournament.
Delta won its first pool match over Abbotsford Christian (2-1),lost to Langley Christian (2-1) and beat Elgin Park (2-0).
In the roundof16, Delta beat Prince George (3-0) andthen beat MEI(3-0)in thequarterfinal, setting upthe semifinal against Kitsilanowhere Delta stumbled losing 3-1.
But the Pacers rebounded after that Friday evening loss, to post a gutsy 3-2 win over Kelowna, Saturday.
“Theloss inthe semifinal was devastating and a toughone for the team for sure, but the boys found something on Saturday andnotquit,” saidheadcoach Andrew Robson.
“We were down 2-1andended up winning the fourth set 31-29, to pushit
to a fifth set andonce we got to the fifth set, it wasa pretty coolmoment to see the boys fire onall cylinders.
“It wasa coolmoment for sure. It would have been easy to roll overand not fight for that bronze medal the way that they did.”
The senior boys’ program at DSS has takentremendous stridesthe past three years withbronze, silverandbronze medal performances at the last three provincial championships.
“Sincethe Friday loss, I have tried to putthisallinto perspective for myself Thisisthree podium finishesin a row,” he said.
“We have two boys graduating that were part ofallthree, so it’s been super cool to seea program shift from being just anOKprogram, to a program that is a serious threat overthe past few years. At the end of the day,there are 85 teams intheprovince, and we are oneofthe three that gets to wear amedal.”
This year’s teamincludes:
Arshaan Bilga, Sean Mead, Leo Ortiz, Levi Sadlo, Jack Thompson, Chase Wilson, Jackson Yagin, Mason Dubnov, Omar Elfarra, Simon Euler, Kian Grewal, Matt Mackay, Tyler Ong and Jack Osten.
DSS senior boys finish ninthatB.C. soccer finals
IAN JACQUES
ijacques@delta-optimist.com
A solid soccer season for the senior boys at Delta Secondary culminated with a ninth-place finish last month at theprovincial championshipsin Burnaby.
The Pacers finished South Fraserleagueplay with a 5-1-1
record withanimpressive 16 goals for andonly seven against. In theplayoffs, they defeated Tamanawis 5-1, Lord Tweedsmuir 4-2and StevestonLondon1-0.
Theironly loss was 2-0 to Grandview Heights inthe SouthFraser final.
For the3Aprovincials, which
were held Nov. 20 to 22 at Burnaby Lakes, the Pacers were in a pool with Reynolds, Argyle and Heritage Woods.
Only the top team in each of the four poolsadvanced to the championship sideofthedraw.
Deltalost 3-1 to Reynolds and3-0 to Argyle, before rebounding for a 2-0 win over
Heritage Woods.
The resultsplaced them third intheir pool,andthey wererelegated to theconsolation sideofthe draw where they beat Abbotsford 2-1and then Charles Tupper3-2inthe 9th/10th place game
This year’s team includes : LiadAmsalem, Yuwa Asami,
Nikolaos Bocolas, Alexios Boufeas, Hayden Countryman, Sajveer Dhillon, Joshua Grund, Levi Klassen, Carter Lawton, Niklas Ljungberg, Matt McQuade, Ryan Mckibbin, Jack Osten, Ignacio Ramirez Fiddes, Jason Saunby, Charlie Taylor, Jayden Varn, Holden Wang and Bradley White.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
Delta Pacers won bronze atthe3Asenior boys volleyballprovincialsinLangley.
ThisTRULYFABULOUSPENTHOUSEspansthe5thand6thfloorsinone of thearea’s only concretebuildings! Bright andairy,this condo features over1,800sqftwith19-ft vaultedceilingsand two-storywindowsthatfloodthespacewithnaturallight.Perfect fordownsizers,orprofessionals. Mainfloorboastslivingarea,dining,brandnewkitchen,primarybedroomand acozygasfireplace. 2nd levelloftwith 2morebedroomsoroffice/flex room,anditsownprivate entrancefrommainbuilding.Largebalcony,beautifulviewsofthemountainsandsomuchmore. Youwon’t find amore spaciousunitinLadner! Centrallylocatedjustafewminutewalkshops,dining,andparks.
B503,482153rd Street,Ladner $839,900
Spacious 2bedroom, 2bathroomcondoatONYX COURT! This west-facing1,342sq.ft.homeisone of thenewerbuildingsintheareaand featuresgranitecounters,stainlesssteelappliances, laminateflooring, agasfireplacewithstonesurround,andalargeprimarysuite with walk-inclosetandensuite.Thethoughtfullayoutseparatesthebedroomsonoppositesides of theopen-concept great room, offeringprivacyandfunctionality,whileacovereddeckprovides year-roundenjoyment. IdeallylocatedwithinwalkingdistancetoTsawwassen Town Centre,transit, Winskill Park,South Delta Recreation Centre,and CentennialBeach. Includes 2parkingstalls, astorage locker, bonusin-suitestorage,andispet-friendly(1dogor 2cats) 207,117555thStreet, Tsawwassen,206117555thStreet E PR CE$769,000
These1/2duplex homesboast amainhousewith2,000square feet of livingspaceandNO Strata Fees!Openconcept layoutwithliving room,eatingareaandkitchenwithislandandsleekquartz countertops. Total of3bedrooms &Flex Room; 41/2baths,(Primarybedroomwithprivate balcony,5piece ensuite and walkincloset). Enjoythedurabilityofengineeredhardwoodfloors,stylishdesignerlighting,andthe convenience ofabuilt-in vacuum,HRVsystem, radiantinf loorheating,Air conditioningand Doublegarage.BONUS1 BEDROOM GARDENSUITE forextended familyorincomepotential. Nestledinapeacefulneighborhood withbackingonto pastoral FARMLAND, thesehomes offerseasyaccess to LadnerElementarySchool (Frenchimmersion),highschool,parks,andfamily-friendly amenities.Photo’s areAIgenerated.
We inviteallwhoknew Waynetocelebratehislifebyrememberingthejoyhe broughtintotheworld.Thoughhemaybegonefromoursight,hisspiritendures intheheartsofthosewholovedthem.
