February12th,2026: We’reexcited to shareanotherprojectupdateforthe STSCrane ReplacementProject.
Withthefirst twoofoursixnewcranessuccessfullyon-site andtwoolderunitsdecommissionedinJanuary,weare nowpreparing for thearrival of ournexttwostate-of-the-artSTS cranes.This$170millioninvestmentinmodern, efficientequipmentwillenhancesafety, improve operations,andmaintainthecompetitiveness of Canada’sPacificGateway.
Additionaldeliveries, foratotal of sixcranes,will continuethrough2027.Theprocesswilllooksimilartowhen we receivednewcranes lastApril.Designed to blendwithour existingequipment,thesenewSTS cranesare electric-powered, featureregenerativedrives to reduce energyuse,andincludehigh-efficiencyLEDlighting to minimizeglare.
What to Expect:
•EstimatedArrival of NewCranes: February19th,2026
•Transport: Thecraneswillbetransportedpre-assembled by aspecialized vesselandsafely offloaded overapproximately10days.
•Commissioning: Furtheron-sitecommissioningwill take placeforup to threemonthswithinthe standardoperatingschedule.
• Location: GCTDeltaport, 2Roberts Bank Way, Tsawwassen,BC
•Impacts: No significantimpactonsoundorlightinginthesurrounding communityis expected.Noimpactonterminaloperations including vessel, railand gate schedules.
We arecommittedtominimizingdisruptionsand keepingourneighborsinformed.If youhaveanyquestionsorwouldlikefurtherinformation, please contactus:
A forest fire burning two kilometres away can still burn down your house.
Flying embers carried aloft by hot winds can jump fire barriers and landon a pileof leavesorfindtheir way under a deck orpileof wood and starta blaze in a suburb.
Learning how to prevent such fires was oneofthe tasks for more than40firefighters Friday, (Feb 6)duringa daylong course on wildlandurban interfacefires.
Firefighters from Delta, Burnaby, Maple Ridge, TownshipofLangley, Gibsons, and Salt Spring Island set up in andnearurban forestsin NorthDeltaand Tsawwassen and practised hands-onexercisesfor such threats, including
putting out spot fires, patrolling neighbourhoods andcommunicating hazards
“Thiscollaborative training strengthensinter-agency coordination andensuresfirefighters are prepared to protect bothcommunitiesandone anotherduring wildfire inci-
dents,” Delta Dep. Chief Tim Ipsen saidin a news release.
“Our goalis to get allof our officers up to speed… get that course,” Ipsen said,adding that eightDeltafirefighterstook the course
The exercise involved about 10trucks and was called an
engine boss training session, offered by the B.C. Wildfire Service
The day-long session focused onpreparing officers forleadership rolesinfighting wildfiresaffecting cities The course equips municipaland regionalfirefighters withthe
skills required to perform the roleofengine boss, saidthe BC Wildfire Service Anengine boss leads a fire engineanditscrew.
Ipsen saidthis year ’s low snow pack is a bitof a concern andcouldimpact reservoir levels
“We’ve beenquite proactive inalloftheurban-interface training again, because we do have those capabilitiesin our neighbourhood,” Ipsen said.
Delta has equipment to combat urban forest fires but it would have to callin support fromothercitiesfor major fires, he said.
“We’re definitely prepared forthese eventsifthey were to happen. Hopefully, we’llnever have to tap into it.”
FireSmart BC said a 2019 insurance study inthe U.S. foundthat embers alone account forup to 90 percent of wildlandhomefires.
FireSmart BC sayscleaning gutters and roofs to remove leaves, twigs, branchesorother vegetation, can be oneofthe most impactful steps to take.
JIMKINNEAR PHOTO
TECHNOLOGY
AppleWatchBasics
Presenter, GerriSombke
2Fridays,Feb20 &27th,10 -12pm
BeginneriPhonewithGeoff
Presenter, GeoffEldred 5Mon/Wed’s,Feb23 to Mar9th,10- 12pm
ContacteditorIanJacquesvia email: ijacques@delta-optimist.com or call 604-998-3616
Delta First launches newpolitical party
IAN JACQUE S
Vowing to restore accountability throughsmarter spending and better infrastructure,a new political partyfeaturing fourincumbent Deltacouncillors launched this weekinadvanceofthe Oct. 17 municipalelection.
Current Couns. Daniel Boisvert, Rod Binder, Jennifer Johal,and Dylan Kruger have formedDelta First, a new municipal party they say isfocused on rebuilding trust at city hall,fixing Delta’s roads, parks, andfacilities, and keeping taxeslow.
After years oftrying to fix what they say is a failing statusquo from within city hall,thefourcouncillors say they are formingDelta First because residents want clearer leadership,a stronger focus, and better results.
“Residents want city hall to get back to basics,” saidKrugerin a news release.
“ They want dependablelocal services, roadsand parks that are maintained,andleadershipthat focuses on practical results not political theatre Delta First willdeliver straightforward, accountable governancethat puts residentsfirst and keepstaxesin check.
“That means setting clearpriorities, making responsible choices, and getting projectsfinished forthe people who live here.”
Delta First say they are committed
to improving transparency and publicinvolvement by encouraging open councildebate, supporting citizen-led committees, andexpanding opportunitiesfor residents to share theirviews.
“We want people to feel welcome at city hall,” added Johal. “Residents shouldknow their voices matterand that theirconcerns willshape local decisions.”
Public safety remains a key focus for the party,including support for police
“When peoplefeel safeintheir neighbourhoods, the wholecommunity benefits,” said Binder.
“We willcontinueadvocating forthe resources our first responders need to dotheir jobs well.”
The party isfocused onfixing, upgrading, and building thecommunity infrastructure.
“Residentsshouldn’t watch key
assets - playgrounds, sportsfieldsand recreationcentres - be allowed to rot,” said Boisvert. “We are going to fix what isbroken,upgradewhat is outdated, and buildforthefuture.”
The group says theircommitment to responsible spending isshown by a record ofquestioning excessive costs and pushing for strongerfinancial oversight.
In December 2025,thefourcouncillors wereremoved fromthe Achieving for Delta team after raising concerns about financialmismanagement and accountability—a move they say highlightsthat the statusquoisn’t working.
Delta First says theissue wasunderscored whenthen Metro Vancouver board chairand Delta Mayor George Harvie approved more than$47,000in taxpayer-funded first-class international travelforhimself,a decisioncritics say exposed poor spending prioritiesand reinforced theneed for stricter oversight.
Delta First says it will runa full slate of candidatesinthe municipalelection. “Leadership starts withexample,” saidKruger.
“Taxpayers expect theirmoney to be treated with care and respect, and ever y decision must be madeinthe open. We are ready to lead, withtheexperience, focus, and commitment to deliver a stronger, more affordable Deltathat works betterfor residents.”
PHOTO SUBMITTED
DeltaCouns. Daniel Boisvert ,JenniferJohal,DylanKrugerand RodBinder have formed Delta Firstinpreparation for Octobermunicipalelections.
Enviro OK for new Fraser River Tunnel expected by yearend
PHIL MELNYCHUK
pmeln yc huk @d elta-optimis t. co m
Delta Coun. Dylan Kruger doubtsthe new Fraser River Tunnel is still going to ring in at $4.1billion.
Andhe’s also doubtingif work onthe main project willactually begin this year, aspromised by the Ministr y ofTransportation andTransit.
Kruger said only pre-work fortheproject has begun because theenvironmental assessment oftheproject has not beencompleted. He wants theprovincial government to give anupdate.
“There’s noactual tunnel segment construction slated for2026, at this point,” he said.
The ministr y confirmed it has received an “environmental land-use committee order ” that allows “significant” early construction to begin beforethe EnvironmentalAssessment Certificate is obtained by theendof this year
“Theprovince’s design-builder, Cross Fraser Partnership,is advancing design ofthenew tunnel andpreparing for early construction to begin this week,” the ministr y saidin a response to the Optimist.
Kruger pointed out other majorinfrastructureproj-
ects, such asthenewbridge in New Westminster and the SkyTrain extension in Langley have all faced cost increases anddelays.
“We need to understandwhat is thetruecost ofthe project. What is theupdated timeline and isit still viable? I think those are legitimate questions to ask and we have not received clarity onthat,” he said.
Krugeradded that he’s spoken to those in theconstruction industr y who say the current estimate of$4 billion coulddoubleuponcompletion.
“The last cost update we got was five years ago in 2021, at $4.1 billion. Sincethen,theprice of everything has increased through inflation. With labour costsandthe cost of materials, there’s no way that number is accurate,” Kruger said.
He wants the government to increase transparency.
“Or come clean and say it’s unbuildable.”
However, theprovince won’tprovide a current price saying only that the cost is being updated asthe project proceeds.
“Theestimated cost oftheproject is being updated and reviewed asthedesign progresses,” the ministr y said.
CL ASSI CB ONSPI EL 2026
Joininsupport of KinVillage, olderadultsneedus,andthis is afun waytoshowup
It will be aMexican fiesta on ice!
Thankyou to everyone whohasregistered, wecan’twaittoseeyou ontheice!Team spotsare now full, butsocialtickets($40) arestill available. Join us forthe fun, the tacos,theprizes,thedrinks, or simply becauseSaturdaysare betterwitha plan.
THAN KY OUTOOUR
The ministr y wouldnotprovide a spokesperson to comment ontheproject.
Krugeralso doubts if the B.C. government, under an austerity mandate, can afford to build the tunnel now.
While theenvironmentalassessment proceeds, a petition was filed in Victoria Supreme Court in September by the Lummi Nation, in Bellingham, Wa., seeking greater consultation ontheassessment.
The statement asks forthe reversalof a B.C. cabinet orderthat excluded Lummias a participating
CONTINUED: see Page 5
CONTINUED from Page 4
Indigenous nationforthe tunnel, and three otherprojects
The petition seeksa declarationthat B.C., “has a duty ofdeepconsultation withthe petitioner,” and says that Lummi Nationisan aboriginal people of Canada that occupied Canadian territor y at thetimeof Europeancontact and has rightsunder Sec. 35 ofthe Constitution Act, which recognizes aboriginal rights.
The EnvironmentalAssessment Officethough says that itisconsulting with Lummi Nation.
“The EAO takesitsobligations to consult with First Nationswho may be impacted by a proposed project very seriously – including withtribesin the U.S.,” it saidin a Jan.29email.
“The EAO isconsulting Lummi Nationontheassessment ofthe pro-
Concept imageof new Fraser River Tunnel.
posed Fraser River tunnel project.”
The EAO saidthat it can’tcomment further because the case is before the court.
LastDecember, the Federal Court of Canada ruled that there was adequate consultation between thefederal government and Lummi Nationconcerning the Roberts Bank Terminal 2 expansion.
The tribe argued Ottawa had failed initsduty to consultthemon a project that would impacttheirtraditional territor yandfishing rights bothof which theyclaimed extendnorthacross the Canada-U.S border Krugerthough saidthetimeforconsultationis over.
“We’ve had nothing but consultation coming on14 years now. You can’t get big thingsdoneif you’re inconsultation paralysisallthetime. We need to move for ward.”
Constructionis set to beginin2027 onthe Delta-South Surrey Greenway project.
Anupdated report oninitiatives underway within the regional parks capitalprogram to the regional parks committee saidplanning is well underway to formalize the Delta-South Surrey Greenway from Nordel Way to 72nd Avenue.
The Metro Vancouverproject will establish a multi-use route with improved flood resilience, connecting to the Delta Nature Reserve boardwalk and establishing animportant regional greenway link, the report explains
The current trailfunctionsasan access trail to the naturereserve andas a utility corridorfor Metro Vancouver Liquid Waste Services.
The first phase ofthe regionalgreenway currently runsfrom Mud Bay in the south to 64th Avenue at its northern end. Along the way,itprovidesconnec-
tions to the Boundary Bay dike trailin Delta, Mud Bay Park and Joe Brown Park in Surrey, as well as Watershed Park in North Delta
Work also isunderway onthe Delta Nature Reserve boardwalk replacement project.
Hazard-tree removal has beentaking place, with boardwalk construction anticipated to beginthis summerand conclude in2027.
Metro also notesthenew2.1-kilometre boardwalk will offerexpanded capacity,newinterpretive nodes, and opportunitiesfor bothinformal andprogrammed educationand events.
“Together, these initiativesform anintegrated plan to improve public access, education,and stewardship of Burns Bog Ecological Conservancy Area.
“Metro Vancouverisactively collaborating withCity of Delta staff, continuing the long-standing interagency partnershipthathas supported theprotection andenhancement ofthisvital ecosystem,” the regionaldistrictexplains.
L’aromas Skycafé
Deltacity police reduce language barrierswith public throughnew mobile app
SANDOR GYARMATI
sg
yarm ati@delta-optimis
t. co m
Delta’s policeofficers collectively speak many languages but they now have a tool to helpthemcommunicate even betterwheninteracting with non-English speaking members ofthe public.
TheDelta Police Department (DPD) has implementeda Canadianbased language interpretation service accessed through a mobile application, Languagesin Motion,which provides live interpretationvia remote videoand telephone
Anupdate report to the Delta police board also notesthat while DPD members collectively speak more than 20 languages, reflective ofthe community, language needs can arise at anytime and in a range ofcircumstances.
Availableonallissued mobile phones for swornmembers, as wellas
for frontline police staffincluding front counter staffandvictim services, the on-demand, 24/7access was implemented in response to thediverse nature ofthecommunity andtheneed fortimelyandaccurate communication during policeandcommunity interactions
Language-related communication challenges can arise during callsfor service,interviews,and statement-taking, the report notes
The report also notesthe app isprimarily used by frontlinemembers during initial callsfor serviceandformal statement-taking and has also been utilized by investigative units to support interviews.
Between August and December 2025, a totalof28on-demandinterpretation calls were made, whileusage datashowed thatPunjabi, Mandarin, Cantonese,Hindiand Dari were the mostfrequently used languages.
Published every Thursday by the DeltaOptimist, adivisionof LodestarMedia
The Delta Optimist is a member oftheNationalNewsmedia Council,whichisanindependent organization established to deal withacceptablejournalistic practices andethicalbehaviour If you have concernsabouteditorial content please contact theeditor at ijacques@delta-optimist.com or call 604-998-3616 If you are not satisfied withthe responseand wish to file a formal complaint visitthe website atmediacouncil. ca or call toll-free1-844-877-1163 for additionalinformation.
OPIN ION
Sorry, we have no comment
Editor’sNote
IAN JACQ UES
No comment.
Sorr y, buta ministr y spokespersonisnot available, but here iswhat I can tell you via email.
These phrases have becomeall too common lately as the Optimist newsroom tries to track down informationfor storiesthat we are workingon.
There were timesinthe past where provincial government ministries were more than happy to take an inquir yfromamember ofthemedia. Theywould take your questionsandendeavour to get back to you meetingyourdeadline.
Andthe answers were notonelineinanemailand they didn’t refuse to offerup a spokespersonforfurther commentandaninterview.
Our jobsare hard enoughthese days andconstantly getting stonewalled at ever y turnis getting more and more frustrating.
Andit’s not just provincial government ministries, it’s also otherorganizations too.
In early fallof last year,theFraser Health Authority announced itsnewCEO.
We thought, given the breadthof challenging healthcare issuesin our community that it would be a great idea to reach out andask foran interview withthe CEO to get some answersto thepressing health-care issues that residents have beenand continue to face
We have put in multiple emailandphone requests, only to be toldthat theCEO was not availableorthat they are working on our request.
It has been almost three months since we madethat request and still,noanswers.
The samecould be said for many connected to Fraser Health Try getting answers about what is being done with staffing issues at Delta Hospital, support for our hard working doctors and nurses. Nope, itis radio silence.
The same can be said for sitting NorthDeltaML A Ravi Khalon.
He has not said a word about thehealth challenges facingDeltans, thehousing crisisissuesorthetransportationmess that his government has created
He deferred to theministry responsible forthose areas, but again,as I said,thoseministries are not responding either.
The provincial governmentwill be releasing its budget next week and by all accounts, the economicforecast looks bleak. ThisNDP government continues to run amok withno clueofhow to govern.And trying to hold itaccountableas befits a democratic government, in a democratic society,isnext to impossibleas well.
Embracingthedetoursof2026
There’sa small phrase many ofushear more often than we realize:“recalculating.”
It comes calmly from our GPS when we missa turn,takea wrong exit, or decide(intentionally or not) to go another way.
What itnever says is, “You failed.” It doesn’t scoldus It doesn’tdwell onthemistake. It simply adjustsandhelpsus move for ward
As we stepinto 2026, there’s something deeply comforting (andinstructive) about that Life rarely unfoldsin a straight line Careers stall orpivot Relationships change. Plansfall apart. Dreams evolve. Some ofthedetours we take are chosen;others are forced uponus by circumstances beyond our control And too often, we label these moments asfailuresinsteadof what they truly are: recalculations.
A recalculation
Community Comment
WA RREN DE ANFLANDEZ
doesn’terase where you’ve been. It uses theinformation you’ve gained tocharta better pathfor ward It acknowledges reality and responds with clarity, not judgment. That’s a mindset our communities, and our individual lives, could benefitfrom embracing.
In the past few years, many ofus have experienced setbacks that tested our resilience: economic uncertainty, personalloss, shifting priorities, and a collective sense offatigue.
Yet alongsidethose
challenges, we’ve seen remarkable creativity,compassion, and adaptability. Local businesses reimagined how they serve. Neighbours checked inonone another. People rediscovered what truly matters
If2026offers usanything, it’s aninvitation to begentler with ourselves and with each other To recognize that progress doesn’talways looklike speed orcertainty,it oftenlooks like persistence. Sometimesthe bravest thing we can do is pause,reassess, and choose a new route. So when thingsdon’t go asplanned this year, consider borrowinga page fromthat calm, unbothered GPS voice Instead of replaying what went wrong, ask what comes next. Adjust yourcourse. Keepmoving. Because detours don’tmean you’re lost. They mean you’re still onthe journey!
Inclusive communication -- inclusive communities
Editor :
I was bornand raised inLadner.I am a parent, community advocate, andthecreatorofthe Forever Kind Communication Boards, and I amwriting to raise awareness about anurgent and often overlooked need in our schools, parks, and public spaces : access to communicationfor every child.
My daughter, Ariyana, hasDown syndromeand autism. Throughher,I learned how deeply isolating the world can be for childrenwhocommunicate differently.
Simple things, asking for help, joininga game, or expressing feelings, can become barriers
insteadofbridges. That realization led me to design visualcommunication boardsthat allow childrenof all abilities to express themselves, connect with peers, and feel seen.
These boardsare not only for children with different abilities. They support non-speaking andminimally speaking children,neurodivergent students, English language learners, and even neurotypical childrenwho are learning empathy,inclusionand kindness.
Iam currently working withthe Delta School District and Delta parks, recreation and culture to bring these communication boardsinto schools,
playgrounds, andcommunity spacesthroughoutDelta.
When placed where children naturally gather, these tools create safer, kinder, andmore inclusive environments for ever yone
Across our community, we proudly display playground rules, maps, and safety signage.
Communicationshould be just asvisible. No child should feelexcluded simply because they communicate differently.
Inclusive communication builds inclusive communities When we give childrenthe tools to be heard, we givethem dignity, confidence, and belonging.
Andrea Castro
Thanks for helpingmusic
Editor :
I’d like tosincerely thank you for publishing the recent press releasesin support of live music inLadner.
Yourcoverage makesa realdifference not only inpromoting individual events, but inaffirming thatmusic and thearts matter to our community.
Local newspapers play a uniquely important role inshaping the cultural life of a town. When a paper chooses to support live music, it sends a clear message that creativity, shared experiences, and gathering togetherare valued here. That kindofencouragement helps audiencesdiscover concertsthey might not other wise know about, anditgives presenters, musicians, and volunteers the confidence to keep bringingquality performances to Ladner
Overthe past few years, I’ve seen firsthandhow positive local media support translates into stronger attendance, broader awareness, and agrowing sense ofprideinwhat’s happening right in our own neighbourhood.
Live music isn’t just entertainment— itbrings people togetheracross generations, supportsartists, andaddsvitality to our local economy.
I’m grateful that our community has a newspaper that recognizesthisand actively supports culturalinitiatives.
Youradvocacy helps ensure that Ladnercontinues to be a placewhere music can be heard, appreciated,and shared.
Lon Schieder
SouthDeltaMealsonWheelsprovidesnutritious, affordablemeals,delivered HOT and READYtoEAT.
DeltaCouncilwisheseveryoneinour community ajoyfuland restfulFamilyDay
FromourDeltafamilytoyours,enjoy a
Year-roundalcohol to be approved for Centennial Beach
Plan still requires final OK from Metro Van
SANDOR GYARMATI sg yarm ati@delta -o ptimi st .c om
Those planning to enjoya day outdoors at Centennial Beach in Tsawwassen may soon be able to enjoy analcoholic beverage at the sametime, year-round.
Metro Vancouver staff recommended to the regional parks committee that a pilotprogram allowing park users to consumealcohol at designated areas of Boundar y Bay Regional Park, as wellas several other regional parks, be made a year-round permanent program.
It wouldallow park users to consume alcohol at those parks when those parks are open to the public.
The plan still requires the Metro board’s final approval.
A pilot was launched during the summermonthsin2024andit was extended in2025.
A staff report notesthepilotprogram
has proven to be operationally feasible withminimalimpacts to visitor experience, adding that thetransitionaligns withthedirection taken by other jurisdictions, and supportsopportunitiesfor recreational gathering and socialconnectionin regional parks.
Whilethere were no major incidents reported, there were some challenges inimplementation. Those included litter and washroom maintenance at Boundar y Bay Regional Park, requiring staff to redirect resources to ensure a positive experiencefor park visitors
However, overall, thepilotdemonstrated that alcoholconsumption can be effectively implemented with manageableimpacts to operationsandvisitor experience, the report notes.
“Theprogram provided visitors with opportunities to enjoy regional parks in a new way,aligning with evolving social normsand publicexpectations,” the report adds
City of Deltaplanning major watermain,sewer upgrades
SANDOR GYARMATI
sg yarm ati@delta-optimis t. co m
Daytime vehiculartraffic is closed northboundon57th Street, off Ladner Trunk Roaduntil Feb. 13, duringa watermain replacementproject
A detour route via 55B Street will be in placewhile southboundtrafficon57th Street will remainopen,thecity notes
The city notesthat theexisting cast iron watermainalong 57th Streetfrom LadnerTrunk Road to Crescent Drive was installed in1969and is at theend ofits servicelife
Another recent nearby project has beenon53rd Streetwhere a major watermainupgrade had beentaking place to replaceanolderasbestos cement pipe with a larger PVC watermain.
They are part of a wider seriesof watermainand sanitar y sewer projects under way orintheplanning stages throughoutthecity to notonly replace aging infrastructure but also increase
capacity forfuture residential growth. Tsawassen residentsare well aware of the56th Street watermainproject, whilethose planned forthis year include watermainupgradeson82nd Avenuefrom116th Street to Scott Road, Kendale Way and Kendale View,as well as53A Streetfrom12th to 16th avenues.
The city latelast yearissued a request forproposals for a consulting engineering company to developpreliminary and detailed designs to upgrade approximately 320 metresofexisting sanitary sewer, 300 metresofexisting drainage mainand400 metresofexisting water mainon Chisholm Streetand Georgia Street.
The consultant is to also develop a servicing design forthe city-owned lot inthe4900-block of Chisholm Street that could become a future hoteland commercial complex
The city last yearalso issued a requestforbidsfromqualified engineering consultants to update Delta’s existing sewer and water models
Year-roundalcohol to be approved for Centennial Beach
SANDOR GYARMATI sg ya r mati@ d elta -o ptimis t. co m
Those planning to enjoy a day outdoors at Centennial Beach in Tsawwassen may soon be able to enjoy analcoholic beverage at the sametime, year-round.
Metro Vancouver staff recommended to the regional parks committee that a pilotprogram allowing park users to consumealcohol at designated areas of Boundar y Bay Regional Park, as wellas several other regional parks, be made a year-round permanent program.
It wouldallow park users to consume alcohol at those parks whenthose parks are open to the public.
The plan still requiresthe Metro board’s final approval.
A pilot was launched during the summermonthsin2024andit was extended in2025.
A staff report notesthepilotprogram
has proven to be operationally feasible withminimalimpacts to visitorexperience, adding that thetransitionaligns withthedirectiontaken by other jurisdictions, and supportsopportunitiesfor recreational gathering and socialconnectionin regional parks.
Whilethere were no major incidents reported, there were some challenges inimplementation. Those included litter and washroom maintenance at Boundar y Bay Regional Park, requiring staff to redirect resources to ensure a positive experiencefor park visitors.
However, overall,thepilotdemonstrated that alcoholconsumption can be effectively implemented with manageableimpacts to operationsandvisitor experience, the report notes.
“Theprogram provided visitors with opportunities to enjoy regional parks in a new way,aligning with evolving social normsand publicexpectations,” the report adds
Share your feedbackonthe Coast-to-Coast Trail
The City of Deltaisinviting residents to share theirfeedback onthedesign and operationofthe Coast-to-Coast Trailandthe pilot disc golfcourse at Diefenbaker Park.
As both projectsare located within the park, residentsinterested ineither the trailorthedisc golfcourse are encouraged to share theirthoughts on both projects The engagement runs from Feb. 3 to March 2, with opportunities to learnmore and provide feedback online.
“We’rereally excited to hearfromthe community,” says Mayor George Harvie in a news release. “The Coast-to-Coast Trailanddisc golfcourse is about encouraging people to get outside, and thisengagement gives residents a chance to share whatmatters most to themasthe projectsmove for ward. Theirinput willhelpus make sure these spaces work wellfor ever yone whouses them.”
The Coast-to-Coast Trailisaproposed mixed-use greenway connecting Fred Gingell Park toCentennial Beach, designed to offer recreational oppor-
tunitiesalong the way forall ages and abilities.
The constructionofanadditional separated pathway willnot be required, asthetrail will be builtusing existing pathways, sidewalks, and park trails.
Developed in partnership withthe Rotary Clubof Tsawwassen,thetrail will include targeted pathway upgrades, wayfinding signage, andfourfitness nodes to betterconnect residents to Delta’s parks, waterfront, and natural spaces.
The trail route passesthrough Diefenbaker Park, wherea 12-hole pilot disc golfcourse was introduced in2025, allowing thecity to gather feedback on both projectsthrough a coordinated engagement process.
The pilot disc golfcourse was developed withinput fromdisc golfuser groups and a professionalcourse designer, following the removal of theformer Winskill Park course Residentsare encouraged to learn more about both projectsandshare their feedback online at letstalk.delta.ca/ CoastToCoast.
-Staff Writer
HAPPY LUNAR NEWYEAR!
As thenewmoon risesonTuesday,February17,we joincommunitiesaround theworldincelebratingthe Lunar NewYearand welcomingthe YearoftheHorse.
We recognizethistimeasoneof renewal,reflection, andhope.May thestrengthandperseveranceofthe horse guideyou to toward greatachievementsin 2026.
Wishing everyone celebratinga very happyLunar New Year filledwithgoodhealth andcontinued success.
Happ yF amily Da y, De lt a !
FamilyDayisa time to celebratethepeoplewhomattermostand reflectonhowwesupport familiesinourcommunity.
TheGovernmentofCanadaiscommitted to helpingfamiliesthrive by makingeveryday lifemoreaffordableandsupportingparents andcaregivers.
• To improve andbeautifystreets,sidewalksormunicipallyownedland, buildingsorotherstructuresinthe TsawwassenBusinessImprovement Area.
ANDTHATallthemoniesprovided to the TsawwassenBusinessImprovementSocietypursuant to BylawNo.8555willbe recoveredineachyearfromthe ownersoftaxableClass 5(LightIndustry)andClass 6(BusinessandOther)propertieswithin the TsawwassenBusinessImprovementArea, by wayofa propertyvaluetaxonlandandimprovements;
ANDTHATthemoneygrantedunderBylawNo.8555shallonlybeexpended by the TsawwassenBusinessImprovementSociety inaccordancewiththe conditionsandlimitationsoftheBusinessPromotionSchemeassetoutintheBylaw;
ANDTHATtheestimated cost to planandimplementtheBusinessPromotionScheme wouldbe$846,705fortheperiodJuly1, 2026 to June30,2031.The2026budgetestimateof$159,481willresultina2026levyofapproximately$.3287per$1,000of assessedvalue,basedon2026assessments;
ANDTHATtheBusinessImprovementAreamay beestablishedunless,within30daysafterpublicnoticeisprovided to the property owners,amajorityofthe ownersrepresentingatleastone-halfofthepropertyvaluesoftheparcelsthatareliable to bespeciallycharged,petitionDelta Councilnot to proceed.Class 5(LightIndustrial)andClass 6(BusinessandOther)property ownerswithintheareadesignatedintheillustrationabove wishing to petitionagainsttherenewalofthe TsawwassenBusiness ImprovementAreamustsubmitthepetitionagainstform by notlaterthan4:00p.m.on March13,2026 to:
OfficeoftheCityClerk CityofDelta
4500Clarence TaylorCrescent Delta,BCV4K3E2
MichelleJansson CityClerk
LIFE STYLES
St . David’sConcert Series
Eventto report?
ContactIanat
ijacques@delta-optimist.com or 604-998-3616
CelebratedUkraine familyofmusiciansper formin Tsawwassenat2 p.m.on Feb. 22atSt. David’sAnglicanChurch.PianistAnna Sagalova (honouredartistof Ukraine)andguitarist Denys Panchenkoper formwiththeirson Lev Panchenkoopeningthe concer t. Ticketsare$25inadvance,or$30atthedoorand$20 for seniorsorstudentsanytime. Secure yourticketsat:https: //simpli.events/e/seasons-of-music-anna-denys.
Artist Guild’sshow honours beloved artist
The South DeltaArtist’s Guild presents Gaze and ConnectTrioArt Show, featuringoriginalart by Nadine Kelln, Heather Edelmeierand the late Jenifer Darbellay
The exhibition concentratesonartistic connection, friendship and the power ofart to unite diverse audiences.
The show runs Feb. 13 to 26 atGaller y 1710in Tsawwassenduring galler y hours Friday to Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. There isan opening receptionon Feb. 14from 1 to 3 p.m.
The tragicloss of Darbellay at the Lapu-Lapu Day Festivalin April 2025shattered her family,friends, and the Western Canadian artsand theatre community.
Kelln, Jenifer ’s friendandartisticcollaborator,was determined to honour her by mounting the show
“It was evenmore important to shinealight on Jen’s beautifulart andfulfill bothof our dreams,” said Kelln.
The two artistsfirst metin2013. Darbellay’s encouragement helped Kellnfind her own artisticexpression, culminating in their first joint exhibition in2018.
“I never thought of ‘not’doing thisshow,” said Kelln. “Jeniferand I had beendreaming andplanning this exhibition for years. We wanted to bring people together not just to gaze at our art, but to trulyconnect—with the paintingsand each other.”
Darbellay’s legacy shinesthrough her evolving body of work, from her early “umbrellasand weather ” series, through “angels”—inspired by mothers as protectors—her “lake series” celebrating summers in northern Saskatchewan,andfinally, her “selfie” portraits
She wasa lifelong artist andan award-winning costumedesignerfor theatre.
“Losing Jen has beendevastating. She was such a bright light—itfelt literally magical to be in her presence,” Kelln adds. “Kindness, motherhood, andart were at the heart of her life.I stillfeel her bright, loving soul withus. Jen wanted ever yone to feel beautiful, heard and seen.
“I will keep painting for Jen,and I will keep challenging myself to do hard things, like she always did. The world needs her art. Especially now.”
Before Darbellay passed, Kellnintroduced her to Edelmeier They talked at length about their shared love ofcolourful, textured art. Edelmeierdidn’t hesitate whenasked to join theshow as Kelln made such a strong, vivaciousimpressionon her.
Original works by Kellnand Edelmeier will be for salealongside Darbellay’s paintingsondisplay. Printsand cards of Darbellay’s art will be availablefor purchase, withproceeds donated to the Vancouver Foundationin her name.
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Seminar
Coffee with Funeral Professionals
Join us forafreeses sion with ourc aring professionalstolearn aboutfuneral planning common my ths, pre- planning benefits, and howweworkwithend -of- life sp ecialists.
Venue:5329Ladner TrunkRd.,Delta,BC
Date:Thursday, Februar y19th
Time:2 : 00 pm (Refre shmentswillbeser ve d)
Limitedseats! RSVP: 604 -946 -6040 or delta@arbormemorial .com
DeltaFuneral Home & CremationC entre by ArborMemoria
Lifestyles Shania Twaintribute act coming to the Tsawwassen Legion
Shania Fans…Let’s Go!!!
Totally Twain, Canada’s premier Shania Twaintribute iscoming to the Tsawwassen Legionon Saturday, Feb. 21.
The concert starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $20, available at the Legionoron eventbrite.ca.
Totally Twainis a touring actfrom Vancouver
Vocalist Michelle Reidbringsthe essenceof Shania along withher star studded band! Having toured extensively throughout Canada and soon internationally, you can be assured of a high energy, polished show.
The show provides a classy Shania experience, iconiccostume changes andallof Shania’s greatest hits rolled into a toe tapping, interactive experience.
If you area Shania fan,thisisthe show for you! Cowboy hats, bootsand leopard are highly encouraged. -Submitted
As youbeginmakingplansandarrangements for asmoothjourney, thingscanseem challenging andconfusing…wheredoyoubegin?
Joinus forworkshopshosted by experiencedspeakers, whowillsharetipsand checklistsand explain how to begingetting yourlegal,financial andhealthaffairsinorder.
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ArborMemoriallnc.
Community
PowerofWomeninPhilanthropy LuncheonisMarch 5
Delta Hospitaland Community Health Foundationisproudto announceits secondAnnual ‘Powerof WomeninPhilanthropy’luncheon, presented by Centur yGroup.
Thecommunityisinvited to attend the luncheoncelebratingInternational Women’sDay on Thursday,March 5at 11 a.m. at HarrisBarninLadner.
This year ’s program, themed‘Living YourBestLife Through Resilience,’ will featureEmceeSimoneGrewal and keynotespeakerDr.Ramneek Dosanjh, ExecutiveVPofNorthAmericaMedical Women’sInternationalAssociationand moretobeannouncedsoon.
Theevent willalsoinclude aspecialpresentationofthe Leadershipin PhilanthropyAward to CindyBeedie, ExecutiveDirectorofthe Beedie Foundation.
We inviteyou to worshipinperson Joinusaswecelebrate God’sgrace Sundaysat10am www.benedictionlutheran.org
Tsawwassen United Church 693 –53rdStreet,Tsawwassen Rev. MariePaul Welcometoeveryonefor Worship &Friendship Sundays@10:00am tuc@telus.net604.943.2911
“BeFaithful,betrue, be ablessing”
DELTA SPORTS
ijacques@delta-optimist.com
End ofanera for fieldhockey at South Delta
IAN JACQUE S
ija cque s@ delta-optimis t.
co m
It’s theendofanera andtime for a new directionforthefieldhockey program at South Delta Secondary.
After29 years asheadcoach ofthe program, Neil McLennan stepped aside at the start ofwhathad been last year ’s fall seasonforthe SunDevils.
A lack of players forced the school to notfield a team, but there are hopes that the school will be able to continue withtheprogram next seasonif a new coach can be found and thenew team structure can be set-up.
McLennanplayed as a kid and when he moved back east also tookupthe sport.
Whenhe returned to B.C., he played locally withthe South Delta Falcons and whenhis body didn’tallow it, he tookupcoaching.
Growing up, heplayed a lot of sports, but fieldhockey became a passion.
“My parents were big skiers and I also learned how toskate, butI wasn’t a big hockey guy, but fieldhockey kindof foundme,” he said.
“Fieldhockey isuniqueinthat itis a world-wide sport where you can play virtually anywhere.”
He startedcoaching back in1994 whenhis daughter was inhigh school.
He first started asanassistant coach, but whentheheadcoach left town for otheropportunities, he stepped up
“My daughter wanted to play and there was obviousinterest fromother players inthecommunity, so I kindof fellinto the job,” he said.
“It was very enjoyable.I just enjoyed working withthe kids. Ever y year was different asplayers graduated.”
To saythat McLennan was successful at thehigh schoollevel would be
After29 yearsashead coachofthe program,NeilMcLennanstepped asideatthestartofwhathadbeen last year ’s fallseason fortheSun Devils.
anunderstatement. Overthe years, the SunDevils won multipleFraser Valley and SouthFrasertitles - easily more
than15and were a consistent forcein theprovince.
Althoughthey were never able to win a provincial championship, they came second twiceand had several other bronze-medal finishes.
A high numberof athletes went on to play at boththe CanadianandNCAA university level andthere were also several ofhisplayers that played forthe Canadian national team
“I view sportsas a vehicle toteach life skills,” he said.
“Thingslike team work, dedication, commitment… which to meiswhat keptme going. If you dothose things that ishow you become a teamand how you can be successful.
“I like thethrillofbringinga group togetherwhoenjoy being together, enjoying playing togetherandenjoying the sport andhopefully creating memoriesforthe rest oftheirlives.”
FILEPHOTO
FILEPHOTO
CoachNeilMcLennan,topleft, coachedthe South Delta SecondarySun Devilsgirlsfieldhockey team for29 years.
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