Tsawwassen First Nation paused to honour Indigenous Veterans Day Nov. 8,atime to rememberthecourage, strength, and sacrificeofthosewho served.
This year’s commemorationheld special meaning withtheunveilingofthenew Veterans Memorial House Post at the Respected Elders Centre. Thehouse post, a powerful symbolof remembranceand resilience, wasbrought to life by carvers Karl Morgan andBryce Williams, with apprentice Jacob supportingthe work,alongside the voicesand guidanceof familiesandelders.
Carved inthe Coast Salishtradition,the post tolda storythat connected Tsawwassen’s journey withthebroaderhistory of Indigenous service, a
reminderthat sacrifices of Indigenous peoples were deeplyinterwoven with thoseofallwho served.
Bryce Williams carved the Tsawwassen eagle andthecrossandwreath.
The eagle,acentral Tsawwassenmotif, represented theancestors,while thecrossandwreathhonouredthefallen soldiers.
Theinscription Lest We Forget carriedadualmessage, acommitment to rememberthe sacrifices madeanda vownever to forgethow Indigenous veterans were treatedafter servingtheircountry.
Morgan’s carvings depicted the warrior ancestorandthe First World War veteran. The warriorancestorhonouredtheprotectors of Tsawwassen’s people, lands,and waters,the warriorswho hadalways stood strong The Second World War veteran represented themodern warriorswho foughtnotonlyfor Canada,
butfortheir Nations’ rights and recognition.
Madefrom redcedarthe house post paidtribute to all Tsawwassen veterans.
The Nation saidthey were grateful to everyone whohelped bring this vision to life. Their work remindedthecommunity that remembranceis more than reflection,itiscommunity,honouring, and respect.
JIM KINNEARPHOTO VeteransMemorial House Postatthe RespectedElders Centre.
JIM KINNEARPHOTO Bryce Williams
JIM KINNEAR PHOTO Mike Baird
JIM KINNEAR PHOTO TFNChiefLaura Cassidy
UPFRONT
LadnercouplewaitingforChristmasreunion
Application forvisitor’s visa forgranddaughter twice rejected by immigration
PHILMELNYCHUK
pmelnychuk@delta-optimist.com
ALadnercouplelikely will spend Christmasconfused about Immigration, RefugeesandCitizenship Canada rules that are keepingtheirfive-year-old granddaughterfromvisitingfortheholidays.
Lizand GeoffBruce’s granddaughter Chloelivesin Kenyaand has been adopted by their son Michaelandhis wifeAllison. They area Canadian/ Americancouplewhoare both aid workerswhohelpduring catastrophesaround the world.
While Chloe’s parents have applied forher Canadiancitizenship,she’s so far beenunable to getavisitor’s visafor a temporaryvisit to seehergrandparents in Delta.
“Politicsand bureaucracyaside, allof thiscouldn’t be moreheartbreakingfor us. EverytimeItalk to Chloeon Facetime sheasks me, ‘Grandma, when canIcome to yourhouse?’” said Liz.
“I keep tellingher,‘hopefully at Christmas.’Idon’t have theheart to tell
hernowthat thisprobably can’t happen. I wonderwho will.”
Thefamily has twice appliedforavisitor’svisafor Chloewho wasadopted two years ago.
Afterthefirst attempt, the DeltaMP’s officeaskedthem to submitnew documents to showthat Chloe–and Michael, Allison,and Chloe’sbrother Thomas –were wellestablishedin Kenyaandfully intended to return. Theofficealso said it wouldwritealetterin supportofthe application.
That first attempt wasin Mayafter
whichImmigration, Refugeesand Citizenship Canada wrote to Chloedirectly. “I amnot satisfiedthat you willleave Canada at theendof your stay Your assetsandfinancial situationareinsufficient to supportthe stated purposeof travelfor yourself,” Immigration toldthe five-yearold.
A second attemptprompted another sternletterfromthedepartment telling Chloethat regardingher parents, a“relationship hasnot been clearly substantiated.” TheMP’s officealso passed along a similarmessage.
Then somewherealongthe waythe MP’s office seemed to have lostthefile, said Liz.
“Nothing happenedformonths. There were no responses to Michael’s emails and my husband, Geoff,andI, had to repeatedly go in person to theofficein Ladner to remindthem.”
Liznotes, everydocument askedfor was submitted.
Lizasks however, “Isthis reallyhow the Governmentof Canada communicates withalittlegirlwho has beenlegally adopted after being abandoned, was livinginanorphanage, andnow simply wants to visither aginggrandparents?
“Maybe Ms. McKnight or evenIRCC Minister(Lena)Diab would like totell my five-year-oldgranddaughterwhythe Governmentof Canada won’tlether come to grandma’sthis Christmas,” said Liz.
“Alternatively, maybe somebody at IRCC,ortheirAI screening algorithm can write Chloeanotherniceletter.”
McKnight said by emailthat she understandshowfrustratingdelays can be when waitingfor a responsefrom a governmentoffice.
“Myofficealways strives to assist constituentsasquickly as possible, and I recognizetherearetimeswhen we are unable to respond within a requested timeframe. Outof respectforindividual privacy,I cannot comment on specific cases,”she said.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
Fromright, Geoffand Liz Bruce,aretryingto getavisa forgranddaughter Chloe, now five andsecondfromleft,adopted two yearsago by Allisonand Michael.
WinterweatherforecastpredictsmoresnowinDelta
SANDOR GYARMATI
sgyarmati@delta-optimist.com
It lookslike we will have more snow than last yearfor the Lower Mainlandthis winter season.
That’s according to a report to councilfrom Delta’s engineeringdepartmentonthe city’s 2025/26 winter season andflood preparedness.
The report notesthat Delta’s independent weatherforecaster Weathernetprovides anannual outlookforthe winter season,whichallows thedepartment to preparefor snow andiceoperations.
This year’s forecastindicates the region mayexperience moreprecipitationandcolder winter temperaturesthan last season.
The report alsonotesthat, as such,the Lower Mainland may experiencemore snow events compared tolast year.AgreaterArctic outflowcould resultin more storms.
Askedforhis personal forecast, engineering director StevenLan toldcouncil at its Nov. 3meeting, “We cannever tell, but we’re wellprepared.”
Theengineeringdepartment hasprepared forthe winter season by ensuring several measuresincluding thatthe Ladner Worksyardisfully
stocked with900 metric tonnes of salt,whilethe North Delta Worksyardisalso stocked to full capacity with1,500metric tonnes.
Acontract with Mainroad Contracting guaranteesup to anadditional 2,500 metric tonnesof road saltforthe season.
ChristmasToyDrive
new, unwrapped toys &gift cardstolow income families so each child can have amagical Christmas. AllNovember long,dropoff toys forkids aged3-18 at participating storesaround TsawwassenTownCentre. Help us seta newrecordfor stockings filled! Visitwww.TsawwassenTownCentreMall.com formoredetails and greatgiftideas.
That total should be sufficientashistorically Delta has used up to 4,500metric tonnes of road saltduringextreme winters, withthe average winters requiring between2,500 and3,000metric tonnes.
Engineeringoperationsalso continues to make its own salt brineused to pre-wetthepriority routesinanticipationof snow and/or ice events.
Thecity hasthree brine tandemtrucks andthree, twotonnebrinetrucks that can applya salt solutionwhen required,and,this year,anew brinemixingfacility at the North Delta Worksyardiscompleteandprovidesadditional capacity, pushingtheentire available capacity to more than 107,000 litres.
Asfaraswhat roadsare clearedfirst, winter road maintenanceisdoneaccording to theprioritiesestablishedunder the Snow and Ice Control Policy.
Giventheimportanceofthe
highestpriority routes(1,2,3), clearing activities wouldcontinue24/7until roadsarein anacceptablecondition. The lowerpriority routes(4,5,6) would be cleared during normal workinghours.
Staff have implemented a nightshifttruckdriver seven days a week to reduce response timefor snow andicecontrol from Dec. 1 to March15,2026.
Meanwhile,thecity’s “Winter Road Conditions” phoneline at 604-952-3820 is available to providea voice message,updated everyfour hoursduringa snowstorm event, withthe current weather situationand Delta’s response levels.
Theannual Snow Angels program, supported by the parksand recreation department, will again be available, assisting seniorsandthose withphysicaldisabilitieswho need a helping hand with driveway and sidewalk snow clearing.
DELTA OPTIMIST FILE
Delta’s fleetofsnow clearingtrucks.
Citypreparingfor potentialkingtides
SANDOR GYARMATI
sgyarmati@delta-optimist.com
It’s that timeof year whentheCityof Delta gets readyfor king tides that could pose a serious threatoffloodingforareas in Delta.
Citycouncilthismonth received anupdate on Delta’s annualpreparationsfortheflood risk to thecommunitiesof Boundary Bayand Beach Grove.
King tidesand storm surges resultingin sudden increasesinthe seawater level can occur between Novemberand February andaremostcommonin Deltafrom late December toearly January. Tides could reachorexceed five metres at Point Atkinson. Thetidesareoften
influenced by lunar cycles and can be intensified by weather systems,especiallyduring stormy conditions.
A staff report notes that,in response to this annualflood risk,the cityfollowsits Staged FloodPreparedness and Response Planthat sets out various stagesinpreparing and responding to possibleflood events.
At the beginningof each winter season, beachaccess pointsare secured withlock blocks and large sandbagsas required to provide temporary flood protection, the report notes, adding that additional sandbags areprovided at select locationsfortheuseof area residents. Weatherforecastsare
alsomonitored throughoutthe winter seasonand inthe eventof significant storms,advisories are posted using changeable message sign boards, a report notes,addingfurtheractivationof staffandthe Emergency Operations Centre would occurinthe eventof a flood forecast.
Meanwhile,thecity has been eyeinglong-term flood protectionforthose communities, two years ago gathering publicfeedback onproposed longterm conceptualdesign solutionsforthe Beach Grove seawall. Although various repairs have beencompleted,theneighbourhood remainsprone to multipleflood-related hazards.
Youare invited to an OpenHouse to enjoysavingsthroughout ourwinedepartment.Someofour favourites being featured:
BlackSageCabernetSauvignon •PoplarGrove PinotGris ThreeSisters Kapetan •ThornhavenInfusion Mt.BoucherieMandaray Rose •DirtyLaundryOK Sweetheart
Librariestocost$244Kmoreforcity
SANDOR GYARMATI
sgyarmati@delta-optimist.com
Delta’s draftfinancialplanfor2026 seesthecity paying$244,500more to be amemberoftheFraser Valley Regional Library(FVRL).
That amount pushesthe budget to be inthelibrary systemnext year to $4,934,500.
Delta haslibrariesinLadner, Tsawwassenand North Delta.
The FVRL boardestablishesan annual budgetfortheprovisionof library services to its15 member jurisdictions.Eachmember municipalityis chargedalevy to cover operatingcosts of thelibrarybranchesandcentral administration.
Deltacouncilinthefallof2024 approved a 4.25 percentincrease for thecity’sshareofthe FVRL budget this year.
That increase for2025 had Delta paying$190,916more, fora totalcontributionof$4,682,515. The latest draft financialplan hasthe restated 2025 budgetforthe FVRL at $4,690,000.
Thefunding wouldcomefromthe FVRL’s Member Salary and Benefit Reserve.
A staff report noted that the reserve isfundedthroughmembercontributions andinterest earnings,and the balance available to Deltais at $715,000 at theendof2025,ascon-
firmed by the directoroffinance with FVRL.
The totalprojectcostfortheLadner libraryprojectisestimated at $900,000.
“It hasalso beenexplainedthat the useofthesefunds willnotcreate issues related to salariesand benefitsshould there be any changesin bargaining. Thesefundsareconsidered ‘surplus’ andareintended to benefitmembers forlibrary purposesinareas outside of FVRL’s direct responsibilities. TheCity of Delta willcontinue to exerciseprudentfinancialplanningand will maintainamodest balanceinthe reserve to covertheunlikely eventofa salary and benefitdeficit,” the report added.
The report alsonoted the useofthe reservefundsforlibrary capital works isacommonand well-established practice,andthat FVRL staffinconsultation with Delta staffidentifiedthe Ladnerlibraryasa currentpriorityfor upgrades.
North Delta’s George Mackie Library hadinteriorupgradesin2019and 2020,whileinteriorupgradesforthe Tsawwassen Library will be considered infuture years.
DELTA OPTIMIST FILE
KinVillagePhase2onhorizon
SANDOR GYARMATI
sgyarmati@delta-optimist.com
TheCityof Delta has received an applicationfor Phase2ofthe KinVillageexpansion project.
The rezoningand development permit applicationfortheproperty at 105054A St. would seethedevelopmentof a new six-storey purposebuilt seniors’ affordable rental buildingcontaining 143unitsandacommunitycentreontheground floor.
The residential portion would receivefunding through BC Housing’s Community Housing Fund, butthecostsof constructionforthecommunitycentre would be separate andis still to be confirmed,a report to councilnotes.
AnOfficial Community
Plan(OCP)amendment was approved by council in2019 to allowforthe long-term redevelopment ofthe KinVillage complexin Tsawwassen to accommodate additional seniors’ housingunits, care bedsandassociated uses.
Meanwhile, seniors have movedinto the project’sfirst phase, a 152 affordablecomplex called The Tides
“Safe,affordablehousingfor seniorsmeans that they can ageinplace inthe very communities they’ve helped to shape,” said Christine Boyle, Ministerof Housingand MunicipalAffairs, in a
Invest in aCanadian Mortgage Fund thatprovidesannualreturnsof7-8%
news releasefromthe province last week.
“Throughthesenew homes, seniorsin Delta cannowliveindependently,while remaining close to familyandloved ones,inahomethey canafford. Thesehomes reflect ourcommitment to ensuring seniors across B.C. have access to housingthat meetstheir needs, and I’mthrilled to seethisvisioncome to life.”
We remembered theirsacrifices.Wehonoured their service.
Once again,theLadnerLegion came together, alongsidethecommunityofSouth Deltafor astirringand poignant tributeto ourVeteransonRemembrance Dayatthe cenotaph at MemorialPark.
Youngandold stoodside by sideas we all reflected on howfortunateweare to live in thiscountry.
Thefreedomsthat we all enjoy thanksto thosewho gave uptheirlivesin sacrifice
Over my nowcloseto30-yearjournalism career,Ihavehadtheprivilege and honour to captureimages and storiesof Remembrance Dayceremonies acrossthis province.
Each community hashadtheir owntwist and flavour, butthemessagesare always the same: remember, reflectand be thankfulfor thesacrifices thathave been made.
To thosewho have served,andwhocontinuetoserve,thank-you foryourservice and sacrifice.
Iwill closethiscolumn with In Flanders Fields, apoemwritten during the FirstWorld WarbyCanadian Lieutenant-Colonel John McCraeafterhepresidedoverthefuneralofa friendandfellowsoldier.Somanyyears later, his poemcontinues to poignantly expressthe tragedyofthelossesof war, andtheimportanceofcarryingontheirmemories.
Isitpossible to govern forthe presentand forthe future?
Thereare many reasonswhy governance is notas easy oras effective as itonce was. Someof thosereasons aresomewhat borne of ironythrough ourcitizenry’s increased abilitytocommunicatewithgovernment beyondthetraditionalmethod ofthe ballot box.
The Delta Optimist is amember oftheNationalNewsmedia Council,which isanindependent organization established to deal withacceptablejournalistic practices andethicalbehaviour.If youhave concernsabouteditorial content,please contacttheeditor at:ijacques@delta-optimist.com or call 604-998-3616.Ifyouarenot satisfiedwiththe responseand wish to file aformal complaint, visitthe websiteatmediacouncil. ca or call toll-free1-844-877-1163for additionalinformation.
In Flandersfieldsthe poppiesblow Betweenthecrosses,row on row, Thatmark ourplace;andin the sky
Thelarks,stillbravelysinging, fly Scarceheardamidthe guns below. Weare the Dead.Shortdaysago
We lived,felt dawn,saw sunsetglow, Loved and were loved, andnowwelie InFlandersfields.
Take up ourquarrelwith thefoe: To you fromfailinghandswethrow
The torch; be yoursto holdit high. If ye breakfaithwithus whodie We shallnot sleep, though poppiesgrow In Flandersfields.
Theadventand evolution of technology,andthe offshootsof it -includingcommunication paths such as social media-havecreated an ever-changinglandscape inwhichour governorscautiously navigate.
Some politicians stickhandle over thisrough ice better than others, butall arewaryofthepitfalls that public echo chambers and homophily present.
In the case ofcommunity building, cityplannerscan dotheirjobsand attemptto fulfillprovincial mandates at the municipal level, but itislocalpoliticians that are attempting to grapple with
Theprovincial government hasmandated that Official Community Plans be revisited everyfiveyears.In thecase of Delta,eventhough ours is less than ayearand ahalf old, at leastone councillor has suggestedthatitmight need to be revisited again. Wasthis astatementbased on sincerityorasameans of political appeasement?
My concern is that given afour-yearelection cycle
and afive-yearOCP review policy, arewenow goingto find politicians perpetually stuckinanendless eddy of confusionand instability? They could be more prone to specialinterestpandering in anever-endinganalysis of potentialOCP revisions ratherthan ensuringwe live in completeand healthy towns.
Arepolitical candidates in anygivenelection year now moreapt to campaign on continuallyupdatingOCP’s basedonthe flavourofthe day? What doesthisdo to thedevelopmentsector? What happens if the Rubicon is crossedonan OCPthatmandates sixstorey limits? Howdoesthat affect sprawl or infill policy in the future? Doesanybody care?
Andwhat does thisinstabilitymeanfor ourcommunityand for ourimmediate and longer-term housing needs? Candidates have less than ayeartoanswerthese pressing questions.
MIKE SCHNEIDER
Nothingrecycledanymore?
Editor:
I recentlynoticedademolition site at a landassembly projecton55A Street whichinvolved theentire block.
Fromwhat Icould see, there wasno attempt to salvageanything, or recycle anythingfromthehousesthat were demolished.
Most ofthosehouses were in reason-
ablecondition,one beingan attractive B& B.
Whyare we sendingallthis material to the landfill,when much ofitcould have been recycled, sent to Habitat for Humanity,or someotherorganization?
I wonder sometimes aboutthethinkingof someoftheseorganizations.
Ian Kent
BillM-216isnohelptoB.C.
Editor:
In case peoplearen’t aware, theNDP government hasintroducedlegislationthat will seriously affectcities such as ours.
BillM216,the Professional Reliance Act, givesdevelopment decisions to professional consultants.
Thisbillallows overridingoflocal governmentdevelopment decisionsthroughprofessionalconsultantsand takes away any possibility
The choice to present this asaprivatemember’sbill, isadeliberate attempt to avoid scrutinyand public debate.
This,fromanNDP government that claims to valuetransparency.
What thismeansis that the towerproposals for Tsawwassencould be allowed without public
orcouncil inputor agreement.
This legislationis totally unacceptablefromall perspectives. It willnot benefit ourhousingconcernsand reduces our localcouncil to pawnsin thedevelopmentorprogress of ourcommunity. We need to write all MLA representatives to discouragethe passing ofthislegislation. It does not serve ourcommunity or our province.
Peter vander Velden
World Kindness Day is ... today
Editor:
Throughthecolumnsof your esteemednewspaper, we wouldlike to remind readers that World Kindness Day will be observedon Nov. 13.
This special dayencourages people everywhere to performsmallactsof kindnessthat can make abigdifference in ourhomes, workplaces,andcommunities.
In today’sfast-paced world,where stress andcompetitionoftendominate ourlives, kindness hasthe power to heal,unite, andinspire.A simple smile,ahelping hand,orafew words of appreciation canbrighten someone’s day.
Letustakethisopportunity to show compassionnot just onone day, but throughoutthe year.
Our KindnessKrew at Pebble Hill Elementaryis busy adding littlenotes to theselittle “critters” and willplace theminandaroundthecommunity inhopes to bringasmileor warm
IMAGES PLUS World Kindness DayisNov.13.
someone’s heart.
We are appealing to all readers to celebrate World Kindness Day by reaching out to others—helpaneighbour,thank a teacher, support a charity, or simply share a kind word.
Together, we can buildamore caring andunderstanding society.
The Kindness Krew
Pebble HillElementary
Monday – Shish KabobSouvlaki
With choice of soup
Tuesday – Free Children’sMeal
Wednesday– DateNight 1Appetizer, 2Entrées &Dessert to share$67.00plustax |$5.00 offall bottlesofwine
Anychild up to 9yearsold eatfree from thechildren’smenu
Wednesday – Date Night
Sunday– RoastLamb
$27.00plustax |$5.00 off allbottlesofwine
1Appetizer,2 Entrées &Dessertto share$67.00plustax |$5.00off all bottlesof wine
Thursday – Ouzo Mushroom Special With choice of Soup or Hummusappetizer
Free Appetizerwithpurchase of 2Entrées *notapplicablewithotherdailyspecials
*Dine-InOnly
Sunday– Roast Lamb
*1couponpertable
$27.00plustax |$5.00 off allbottlesof wine
Expires:Nov. 30th2025
•Book yourChristmasparty today!
•Privateroom available forupto 35 people
•Catering available for large events!
CityofDeltareviewingfarmbuildingsonALRland
SANDOR GYARMATI sgyarmati@delta-optimist.com
TheCityof Delta says it’s working withthefarmingcommunity,including agriculturalproperty ownersandfarm operators, to explorenewoptions to help guidethe approvalofnon-residentialfarm buildingson agricultural land.
That work will buildontheexisting city building permitprocessandalign withtheAgriculturalLand Commission (ALC) Act, which sets out permittedusesforthose structures,thecity explains.
Havingissued a mailoutand survey to 1,175farmingpropertiesthis yearfor feedback,thecityalsonotesthe goalis toensurethat Delta’s approach remains clear, consistent and responsive.
Someofthe topcomments received regardingnew buildingimpactsinclude non-farmuses, such ascommercial, residentialor event venues, beinginappropriate,whilethereisalsoconcern regardingnoise, particularly related to eventsor large equipment, as wellas trafficand parkingimpactsfromnonfarmactivitiesorvisitors.
Basedonthefeedback received, thecitynotesit has worked withthe Agricultural Advisory Committeeon potential changes to the processandis nowinvitingthefarmingcommunity forcomment.
The review wasprompted by council earlierthis year agreeingthat the city shouldinvestigate recent developments onlocalfarmlandwhere largenew buildings have beenconstructed orare
HomehealthcarejoiningMetro
SANDOR GYARMATI
sgyarmati@delta-optimist.com
Businessesthat provide homehealthcareandother in-home support services areideal candidatesforthe Fraser Valley Inter-Municipal Business Licence(IMBL)program.
That wasthe recommendation recentlyendorsed by Delta councilontheinclusionof those businesses to operatein Deltaand municipalities participatingintheprogram.
Such servicesincludein-
homemedical care, transportation,companionshipand home making.
TheCityof Delta currentlyissues about30 business licences each year to businesseswhosecore work is to providein-homehealth care and nursing services.
In addition,thecity issues about400licencesannually to health care businessesthat couldprovidein-home servicesas part oftheir business, includingmidwifery, registered massagetherapy,fitness training,andcounselling services,
Thecity wasseekinginputon enhancementstotheprocess for reviewingnon-residential farm buildingsonagriculturalland.
intheprocessof being built. Severalofthebig buildings have beenthe subjectofALCenforcement action.
Delegates at last month’s Unionof
BC Municipalities(UBCM)convention endorsedamotion putforward by the Cityof Deltaconcerningthe abilityof theALC to performitsenforcement job. Themotionurgestheprovincial government to increase fundingforthe ALC, allowing fora significantexpansionofitscomplianceandenforcement team,as wellasimproveALC oversight and reducenon-compliant landuses that threaten agricultural landin B.C. TheALC regulatesand oversees land uselegislationfor approximately4.6 million hectaresofALR landacross theprovince,according to the motion, which notesALC’scomplianceand enforcementoperationconsistsofonly eight staffmembers andisinsufficiently funded to adequately oversee and enforcenon-compliantusesintheALR.
Inter-Municipal Business Licence program
amongothers. Launchedin2013aspilot and made permanentin2015, theIMBL program is designed to facilitate businessoperationsacross Delta, Vancouver, Burnaby, New Westminster, Richmondand Surrey.
Under theIMBL, businesses obtainalicenceintheirhome municipalityand,foranadditionalfee, receive theIMBL for all participating municipalities.
It’s aimed at reducing administrative burdensand costsassociated with operating in multiple municipalities.
Deltaalso participatesin the Fraser Valley IMBL agreement, initially launched asapilotin 2012 with more municipalities joining over the yearsfor businessesintheconstructionand tradeindustry.
“Staffmet withthe BC Care ProvidersAssociation,which expressed supportfor including businessesthat provide inhomehealth care and related servicesintheFraser Valley IMBLprogram. Staffheard that the reducedadministrativeandcost burdens would be welcomed by businesses
operatingin multiple municipalities. These changes may encourageexpansioninto new serviceareasandprovide clients withgreateraccess to serviceoptions,” a staff report notes.
Shouldthe recommendations be approved by all participating municipalities,the Fraser ValleyIMBL will be available to health care professionalsand services businesses on Jan.1,2026,the report adds. Thereare currently17IMBL partnerships between104 municipalitiesintheprovince.
SANDOR GYARMATI PHOTO
Remembrance Day 2025 in South Delta
The Remembrance Day ceremony in Ladner broughttogetherthousandsfromour community topay their respects to thosewhohave foughtand diedinserviceto our country.
Delta residents Bev Yaworski and Doug Reynoldsare worried that aprivatemember’s billnow beforethe B.C. legislature willgivemore power to developers, whileshrinkingthat of elected citycouncils.
Bill M-216,the Professional Reliance Act proposes to require B.C cities to accept submissionsfromengineers, architects,orother technicians,effectively sayingtheyaremeeting thecity’s bylawor permit requirements.
“A local government must accept,asmeeting(attaining) permit or bylaw requirements, any submissioncertified by a PGA(Professional Governance Act)professionalacting withintheir
regulated scope ofpractice,” the Unionof B.C. Municipalitiesquotes fromthebillonline.
Thebillnoteshowever that cities can still set their own bylaws,development permitareas or officialcommunityplans.
However, ifacity wants to require a peer reviewofa submission, the Superintendentof Professional Governance has to agree.
UBCM points out that it’saprivatemember’sbill,not subject to broaderconsultationas are governmentbills,and that local governments should have beenconsulted,“beforeproposing systemic changes to local approvalprocesses.”
Thegroup has “significant concerns”that the bill woulderodelocal approval authorities.
“UBCMviewsthepro-
posedlegislationascontinuingatrend towards sweeping, centralized legislationthat impacts local governments,developed without meaningful local governmentinput,” it saidonline.
It also wants to know whythebill waswritten. ”Why doesthis require a new law?”UBCMasks.
Delta Coun. Daniel Boisvert saidhe hasn’t hada chance to readit fully,“butonthe surface Iamtroubled anddeeply concerned.
“This appears to be furthererosionofthe authoritygranted to local government.
“Whencitizenslose their say about what goes onintheirneighborhood then,Ithink, government is getting away from itscore responsibility; to listen to,and better servethe public. More
importantlytheyaretakingthecorefunctionof municipal government away fromlocalcitizens,” Boisvert said.
George Anderson, MLA for NanaimoLantzvilleand parliamentary secretaryfor transit,is sponsoring the billand said online that thebill willcreate faster timelinesand lower costs,and morehousingand jobsand more accountability.
Andersonisacommercial lawyerandformer Nanaimocouncillor and says heknowshow frustratingit can be when housingprojects get caughtupin redtape.
Currently,city staff have to double checkthe work ofprofessionalsfor development applications, eventhoughthose professionalsareprovinciallyqualified.
COUNCILCONSIDERATIONOFBYLAWS–NOVEMBER17,2025
“It slowsthingsdown anddrivescostsup,” Anderson said.
Thebill willallowcities to trust professionals to dotheir job cutting red tape, speedingup housing approvalsandfreeing city staff to focuson what matters most, he said.
For Yaworski, “It soundslike evenmore powercould be taken away fromlocal residents andtheircitycouncils!” she said,addingshe wantscouncil to take a strong stance against.
Agroupofplanners andurbandesigners andprofessors is also opposed.
At first glance,thebill seems technical... to allowprofessionals to reviewand approveprojects, saidaletterfrom HousingReset.cawritten Nov. 7. “That may sound harmless, even efficient.”
Butthegroup says that developersthen would be able to bypass municipal oversight, “relyinginstead onprovinciallycertified agentswhose work local governmentscouldnot ‘peer review’ (outside consultants) withoutprovincial permission.”
“Thebill’s provisions go so faras to allowthe province to designate analternative“local government” to handle approvalsifanelected councilproves too slow or resistant. This power effectively nullifiesthe principleof municipal self-determination.”
Thelettercontinues, “Step by step, the toolsof localplanning— zoning, permitting, anddensity decisions—are being centralized underprovincial authority, justified by the widelyfelturgencyof thehousingcrisis.”
TheCityof Delta hasissued another roundof requestforproposalsfortrade contract tendersforthenew Winskill Aquaticand Fitness Centre project.
The latest phaseof tendering consists ofunit masonryand masonry veneer, structural steel,architectural woodwork, mass timberandglulam beams, concrete damp-proofingof perimetre concrete walls,preformedmetal claddingand buildingenvelope, modified membrane roofing, fireproof spray, doors, frames, gym equipmentand poolaccessories,among many other components.
Thelowest tender willnotnecessarily be accepted,thecitynotes, Constructionis wellunderway for the$130millionproject, while separate drainagepipeupgradescosting$2.1 millionis beingfundedfromtheexistingengineeringdepartment budget.
A recentupdate to councilnotes that bulkexcavation has begunforthe mainfacilityand structuralfoundations
installation wasplanned to beginin late fallandcontinuethrough winter2026, whilethe building superstructure will be installedthroughout 2026.
Theoriginalprojecttimelineanticipatedthefacilityopeningin late 2027, however, that hasnow beenextended intoearly2028, withfinal timelines to beconfirmed over the comingmonths.
Theprojectalsoincludesupgrades to Winskill Park, including theconstructionofnew balldiamonds,as wellas a reforestationplan.
ThenewU13andU15 baseball diamonds will be completed this year and will be readyforusein2026after seeded grass hasestablished.
Meanwhile, anew hubfieldhouse will be designedand built, locatedcentral to thenew baseballdiamonds. It willcontain storage, public washrooms, as wellasa space to operateaconcession withusergroup portable appliancesandcooking equipment.
The report notesthat usergroups will be engaged to confirmdesignofthe newfieldhouse, planned to be opened in2028.
It’s anticipated Cascades Casino Delta will be drawing less revenuefor thecity.
Gateway Casinos& Entertainment Ltd.celebrated the grandopeningof the casino,locatednext to the interchange ofhighways 99and17A,in September2022.
Thecity,inits2025 Financial Plan, had$1.5 million budgeted as revenue fromthe Cascades Casino Delta,the sameamount statedas received in the restated2024 budget.
According to the city’s2026Draft Financial Plan, Delta received in its 2025 restarted budgetof$1.5 million. Casino revenuein2026is budgeted at $1.2million,a$300,000decrease.
Prior to its construction,the BC Lottery Corporation(BCLC) estimated annual revenuecoming to Deltafrom the casino would be at the topendofits initial$1.5 million to $3million projection, basedonthe casinoopening with
500 slot machines.
The Deltafacility,which reducedits hours last yearand now opens at 11 a.m.,features160,000-square-feetof entertainment space withthe gaming flooras wellas restaurants.
The casinoissmallercompared to the River Rock Resort in Richmond, operated by Great Canadian Entertainment, as wellas Starlightin New WestminsterandGrand Villain Burnaby, bothoperated by Gateway.
Elements CasinointheCityof Surrey is alsosmallerthanthose gamingfacilities but hasmore slot machinesthan Delta.
In a news release earlierthis year celebratingthe20thanniversary of Gateway’s Cascades Casino Resort in Langley, Gateway noted that cityin fiscal2023/24 received $7.9millionin hostlocal government payments generated by the casino.
That larger casino,which has over 1,000 slots,completed an$18-million expansionand renovationin2019, which added11,000 squarefeetof entertainment space.
Community OperationChristmasChild collectionstostartinSouthDelta
Each year, Canadians come together to fill shoeboxes withgiftsthat bringhopeand joy to childrenlivingindifficult circumstancesaround the world.
In 2024, Canadians packedmorethan 436,000shoeboxes, each oneanopportunity to show God’slove inatangible wayandsharethe message of Jesus Christ.
This year’s Collection Week runsfrom Nov. 17 to 23, withdrop-offtimes Monday to Saturday fromnoon to 2 p.m. and Monday to Friday from 5 to 7 p.m. at South Delta Baptist Church,198856th Street.
In2024, Canadianspackedmorethan 436,000 shoeboxes, eachoneanopportunitytoshowGod’s love inatangible way andsharethemessageof JesusChrist.
Everyshoebox representsa storyoffaithfulness-a simplegiftthat remindsa childtheyare seen,loved,andnever forgotten. Together, we can make aneternal impact,oneshoebox at atime.
On Monday, Nov. 3, Grade3 studentsfrom CliffDrive Elementary gathered at Boundary Bay Cemeteryin Tsawwassen foraheartfelt No Stone
LeftAlone ceremony— a movingtribute to the veterans laid to rest there.
This special event was organized by CliffDrive vice-principal, Madame Hélène Hamilton,in
partnership withthe Cityof Deltaandthe Tsawwassenbranchofthe Royal Canadian Legion.
Hamiltonfirst introducedtheceremony to Tsawwassen students three years agowhile teaching at South Park Elementary,andherdedication hasensuredthat thistraditioncontinues.
Studentsproudly
Are youlookingfor anamazing ReggioEmilia approach,4 hour, Early EducationProgram?Westill have space in ourthree-year-old classand four-year-old class. There is an option forfull-time as well. Checkout our website andregister soon!
Pleaseemail admin@cschildcare.ca or callMeagan formoreinformation 604–946–4060
sang O Canada, recited In Flanders Fields and the Commitment to Remember,andlistened as Captain P. Spicer delivered the Act of Remembrance.Afterthe Last Post,the students observed twominutes of silence beforeplacing awreath at the Cross of Sacrifice
For Hamilton,thisinitiativeisdeeply personal.
“Mygrandfather was a First World War veteraninthe Canadian Air Force. My unclesalso served inthemilitary, so Iam passionate about encouraging respectand gratitudeforthe service and sacrificeof veterans,” sheshared. “No Stone LeftAloneisa wonderful initiativethat enables students to honour veterans interred at Boundary Bay Cemeteryandhopefullygivesthema better understandingofthe sacrifices made by veterans that giveus peaceandthe many freedoms weenjoy
OnMonday, Nov. 3,Grade3studentsfrom CliffDrive Elementarygathered at Boundary BayCemetery in Tsawwassen foraheartfelt NoStone Left Alone ceremony—amovingtributetothe veteranslaidto restthere.
today.”
Following theceremony, each studentvisited anassigned gravestone, spokethe veteran’s name aloud,and paused for a momentof silence and reflection reflectonthe veteran’s service and sac-
rifice.
Across Canada, No Stone LeftAloneceremoniestakeplacein the days leadingup to Remembrance Day.
Each poppyplacedis apromisethat thosewho served and sacrificed will
never be forgotten. Theseceremoniesconnect generations, teach youththeimportanceof remembrance,andhonourthecourageofthose who gave everything for ourfreedom.
-Submitted
DELTA SCHOOLDISTRICT PHOTO
Community Loud,long-lived,lovablepet parrotslookforalong-termhome
PHILMELNYCHUK
pmelnychuk@delta-optimist.com
Parrots can be abitnoisy, notthe bestofneighbours. Andthey can be destructiveandhigh maintenance, plus,asfaras pets go,“they can live so, so long,” says Jan Robson withthe Greyhaven Exotic Bird Sanctuary.
So, want to adoptone?
Folks at the sanctuary inLadner arefacing the same situation other animalsheltersare, lotsofanimals that noone wants, whilealso creating financial stress fortheshelters, said Robson.
“Thedifferenceisthat parrots, particularly the larger ones,aredifficult to re-home at the best of times,” Robson said.
Butinaneffort to reach people whomight possibly make,“wonderful parrot parents,”theshelteris having anopenhouse Nov. 15,from 1 to 4 p.m.,whereanyone can stop inand geta touroftheshelterand see some potentialfeathered friends up close.
“Thisisanopportunity for people to meet ourflock ofincredible parrots, learn abouttheir journeys,anddiscoverhowthey can make adifference inthelivesoftheseintelligent,loving creatures,” said Robson.
Theonlyhitch isthat ticketsare required forthefundraiseropen house, $24.86, withtheaddress of theshelterprovidedoncetickets are bought. See eventbrite.ca fortickets.
In addition to learning about responsible ownership,visitors can alsolearn aboutadoptingor volunteering.
Robson saidtheneed for people to adoptunwanted birdsis constant, as istheneed to ensurethere’senough
CUSTOMBLINDS &SHADES
money to feed,house and care forthe flock.
Oneofthe sanctuary’ssheltersin Tsawwassenhouses about50small or medium birds,whiletheLadnerlocation has65 largerones, such as maccawsorcockatoos. Several of thebirds at the sanctuary came fromthe World Parrot Refugeon Vancouver Island which closed in2016.
“We’re pretty much full at both and we’re waitlisted,”meaning people have to wait until there’s space before theshelter canaccepttheirno-longerwanted feathered friend.
Potentialadoptees are welcome, although Robson points outthe adoptionprocessisnot just a matterof stopping by andpicking oneup.
Multiple appointments andvisits can be required to ensure the adoptive parent likesthebird, andvice versa, she said.
We have a responsibility to ensure that they to the best possiblehome, sheadded.
Robson saidbirdsneed alotof care, foralongtime.
Some canlivefor30,40,50 and60 years, often outlivingtheir ownersand any care plansfor thebird.
One recentarrivalis Charley, a cockatoo,who’s 74 yearsold. He’s recentlyfoundhis voice after getting adjusted to theshelter, Robson adds. “Anditisabigone.”
Despitethe challengesof caring for intelligent, high-maintenance pets, (they have to usetheir beaksconstantly,whichcreates amess and consumes toys),thebirds are beguiling, Robson said.
Parrotsare “exquisitelysmart,”she said. They’reintelligent,intuitive and affectionateandfunny.
ACROSS
1.Coverwithgold
5. “God’sLittle____”
9. Soaking
12.Place
13.Stop,toDobbin
14. Poison____
15.____diving
16.Permits
17.Puppy’sbite
18. Event
20.Baldbird
22.Inshort
25.Character
27.Operated
28. Served forapoint
30.“ Girl”
34.Aardvark’ssnack
35.Springbird
37.Glaciermaterial
38.Puton cargo
40.Old stringedinstrument
41. Fish “arm”
42.Perceive sound
44. Losestraction
46.Utensil
49.Entry
51.Notloud
52.Ancient
54.Stagesofhistory
58.Prospector’squest
59.Rope
60.“ Rider”
61.Tiethe knot
62 Flip, as acoin
63.Spout
DOWN
1. Oxygenorhelium,e.g. 2. Provoke
3.Hawaiianhandout
4. Do theelectricslide
5. Holepunchers
6. Popularbarbecueitems
7. Spoil
8.Artist’stripod
9. Bird’sflapper
10.“ Woman”
11.Classify
19.Longway off 21. Fore’s partner
22.Bikini tops
23.Goonandon
24.Divisionpreposition
26.Emend
29.Kind of soda
31. Soundgear:hyph.
32.Etchingliquid
33.Decadenumbers
36.Aerie
39.“ Do YouLove”
43.Pass, as alaw
45.Holdson to
46.Not very busy
47.Leafopening
48.Hadbills
50.Doesarithmetic
53.Sticky glop
55.Musical style
56. Beerlike beverage
57.Doneedlework
Crosswordpuzzleanswers useAmerican spelling
LAST WEEK’S ANSWERS:
HOROSCOPE WEEKOF NOV13,2025
ARIES March21-April19
Ifyou’refeelingantsy, breakfree fromthedailygrind by going onnewadventureswith your partner.This will bringa fresh dynamic toyour relationship. Atwork,you’llmakebold choicesandconfidentlytackle majordecisions.
Ifthere’stensioninyour relationship,don’trushto fix it.Takethetime you need tocooldown.Inworkand otherareasofyourlife,you’ll experience asenseofpride bycommanding respecteven whenthingsarehectic.
CANCER June21-July22
Bepatientwith afamily memberwho may need more attentionthanusualthisweek. Youmayhavealreadystarted decoratingforChristmas and makingyourhomelook more beautifulthanever.You mayunexpectedlyconsider moving.
LEO July23-Aug.22
You’llhavetotravel alotfor workorpersonal reasonsthis week. To avoidfrustration, taketheinitiativeto resolvea long-standingconflict. Don’t let asimplemistakebecome anexcusetocriticizeyour partner.
TheDriver (2026),directed by Delta’s Pale Christian Thomas, isa razor-edged character study set againstthe rain-slickneonof Vancouver’s after-hours streets.
Thefilmfollowsa solitary ridesharedriver—aformermilitary marksman—whosetightlycontrolledlifeunravelswhena single passenger refuses to disappearlike alltheothers.
What beginsasa routinepickup becomesapsychologicalcollision course,forcing TheDriver to confrontthe past he has spent years outrunning.
Kate Delaware doesn’tblendin. Sharp-willed,unpredictable,and carryingher ownshadows,she draws TheDriver into aconflicthe cannolonger ignore. What begins asa chanceencounter becomes a
The WanderInn Café isinviting youtoa fabulous evening ofChristmasmusicasthey present ‘YuletideJoy’ featuringChristineMagee,the South Delta Singersandmale quartetHigher Calling.
collisioncourse involvingdetective NeilCross, a manwho recognizes thelookof someone runningfrom themselves.
Thefilm stars Tanya Champoux ina striking career-defining turn as Kate Delaware —asharpwilledandunpredictableforce whodisruptstheDriver’s carefully constructed silence. Champoux’s performance marksa bolddeparture fromher well-known rolesin the Hallmarkuniverse,embracing anewdepth, volatility,andemotional charge.
Oppositeher, Thomas Kromwell,deliversa tightly woven quiet, presenceinhis character Tom Halliday, A.K.ATheDriver. Greg Calpakisdeliversagrounded andpressure-loaded performanceasdetective NeilCross, a manwho recognizesthe look of someone runningfrom themselves. Known widelyfrom Cold Squad, Calpakis returns to the screen withcontrolledintensity andquietgravity.
TheDriver iswritten by Christian Thomas,produced by Champouxand Kaley Wilson, with cinematography by Hildago Ruez andan atmospheric score by The Hipster Cartel.
Thefilm wasshotentirely inBritish Columbia, using real Vancouver streets, realmidnight texture, andavisual palette of neon-litshadows.
“Thefilmis aboutpressure the soundofaheartbeat against a citythat never stops,” says Thomas “Itasks what happenswhenthe world refuses to let you disappear. When silenceisn’t safetyanymore.”
TheDriver (2026),directed by Delta’s Pale ChristianThomas,isa razor-edgedcharacterstudy setagainstthe rain-slickneonof Vancouver’s after-hours streets.
Christmasshow to benefit Freshwave Ministries
The Wander Inn Caféis inviting you to afabulous eveningof Christmas music astheypresent ‘Yuletide Joy’ featuring Christine Magee, the South Delta Singers and male quartet Higher Calling.
The benefitconcertand silent auctionison Saturday, Nov. 22 at 7 p.m. Enjoy beautifultraditionalandfestive seasonal songsasthe performers usherinthis special seasonof joy.
Magee, hasgreat audience rapport andalonghistory of soul/jazz/bluesand gospel performances.
An award-winning singer, songwriter,arranger,andpianist, she,also teachespiano, vox, and guitar locally.
The South Delta Singers, directed by Mavis Westonand accompanied by Magee, is a groupof passionate singers united by theirlovefor music. They will upliftandinspire you astheybring you Christmas songs, reflectinglove and joy forall.
Higher Calling, isa dynamic, talentedquartetcomprised of vocalists Garry Vath, Ray Beutel, Dan Sember,and Bill Ashbee. With rich harmonies
and soaringmelodies,they will dazzle you withtimeless, nostalgic songsthat bring delight, as wellascomfortandmeaning to the heart.
The evening willofferfantasticshoppingopportunities at the incredible silent auction andconcessiontreats.
Thanks to allwho willcome to ring inthe seasonand to supportFreshwave Ministries. Theorganization serves the lessfortunate in Vancouver, servesamonthlycommunity meal at All Saint’sAnglican Church inLadner,and supports The Wander Inn Café.
Freshwave Ministries, foundedin2010,isa Canadian registered charityandisincorporatedunderthe B.C. Society Act.
Pre-saleticketsare$20for adultsand$15for seniorsand teens availableuntil Nov. 21 at Camille’s Boutique& Gallery or by calling604-943-8094. Tickets will be available at the doorfor$25foradultsand$20 for seniorsand students.
The benefitconcert will be held at Lighthouse Church, located at 5545Ladner Trunk Road.
-Submitted
PHOTO SUBMITTED PaleChristianThomas.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
CHURCH DIRECTORY
AWarm and Joyful welcometo...
Sacred Heart Catholic Church
3900 ArthurDrive, Ladner
604-946-4522 sacredheartparish.ca
Mass Schedule
Saturday at 5pm
Sundayat9 am 11amand 5pm
Daily Mass in theChapel at 9amMon-Sat
S VEL EE J SUNDAYS10AM
LADNERGOSPEL ASSEMBLY
“Aplacewhereloveandfriendshipmatters”
SundayWorship Service 10:30am
AllAges Welcome!
AllSaintsAnglican Church 4979-44A Avenue,Ladner 604-946-9179•604-946-4224
www.ladnergospelassembly.com
JoinusSunday Service @10am Wednesday Service @10am followedbyBibleStudy Formoreinformation www.allsaintsladner.org or call604-946-8413. 4755ArthurDrive,Delta
As aChristian, Icertainlyknowwemustdo goodworks,helpothers, and relieve hurt in thisworld. Christians, ofall people,should be renown for their kindness, goodness…well,let me readonesuchlist. It’s from Galatians 5, “But the fruitofthe Spirit is love,joy,peace,patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; againstsuch things thereisnolaw”.
If you’remonitoring the Christiansinyourlife, yououghttosee many of thesequalities manifest
intheir innerthoughts and outwardactions. And unfortunately,it’s moreoften hypocrisythe watchingworldobserves in us Christians,thanthe itemsfound withinthis text.
ButI need to draw your attention to twokey components.
Theseinnerand outward behavioursare evidenceofGod’s transformativeworkwithin Christians;they’renot derived from someinner, personalpiety.
While Christians and non-Christiansalikeare both evidencing many ofthe attributeswithin this list, theactionsmentioned hereare, forthe Christian, the fruitorthe evidenceoftheirfaith in
yourcommunity
Where theBibleis explained,and people are changed
www.livinghopeladner.com
JesusChrist, and notthe rootoftheirfaith. Shortanswerthen? Good workscannot save. Only Jesussaves,one soul at atime.You see, ironically, we can’t earn orcontributetowards our salvation. We can’t be good enough.Weneed righteousnesstobein fellowship with God, but “None is righteous, no, notone” Romans 3:10. ButGod knewthis andsentHisonlySon to becomethesacrificefor oursins,and when we realizewecannot purchaseour salvation, we turnin personalconfession to theonlyOne who cansave. While youdraw breath,Iimploreyou to come to this beautiful Saviour!
FalconsField Hockey AGMMeeting
Falconswill be holdingour annual AGMmeetingatthe Tsawwassen Lawn bowlingclub(at Winskill), OCTOBER22, AT 7PM- 8PM
We will be voting in newexecutive members. If you’dliketobepartofthe 2024/25season asa member of theExecutive or as aMemberatlarge we encourageyou to come outOctober22nd and letusknowyourintentions. Theclubneedsnew membersand volunteers. Hope to seeyou there.
DELTA SPORTS
ContactIanat
ijacques@delta-optimist.com or call 604-998-3616
JVSunDevilstoppleTerryFoxinwildcardplayoff
IAN JACQUES ijacques@delta-optimist.com
The junior varsity South Delta Sun Devilsopenedupa27-0thirdquarter leadinadominating27-14 win over the Terry Fox Ravensinthe AAA junior varsity wildcardplayoff round.
South Delta hostedthe game at the brandnew Mackie Park turf in North Deltaadjacent to Gray Elementary and were bolstered by a young student sectiononthe sidelinesofthe Wednesday, Nov. 5lunchtimefootball game.
South Deltadominated on all sides ofthe ballfinishing with261 yardson offence withthedefenceonly allowing53 yardsandnegative10 rushing yards.
The Sun Devils were led by Grade 9 quarterback Raemon Dosanjh whose steady hand at the position continues topaydividendsfor South Deltaas theycontinuetheir push to a provincial championship.
South Delta’s defence madean early statementandlinebacker Uriah Zieglercontinuedhis stellarplay with
In the secondquarter, Ty McGregor scored a pairof majors – the first on a46-yard pass from Dosanjhand the secondon a 22-yard punt return.
Easton Giesbrecht rounded outthe Sun Devils scoresheet with a13-yard TD pass from Dosanjhin the third.
Fullcredit to Terry Fox as they were not going tolay down andquit.
The Ravens tookthefollowing kickoffallthe way back to getthemselves onthe board withthe gamenow at 27-7.
They converted the following onside kick to getthe ball back and with plenty oftimeandlotsofmomentum it was againthe jobofthedefence to getcontrolofthe game.
“Wecompeted hard, but must continue to get betterin all phases asthe competitioncontinues to ramp up each week,” saidhead coach Scott Martens.
Up nextarethe Mount Boucherie Bearsfrom West Kelownain the quarterfinal round.
offtothequarterfinal
The Bears wontheir wildcardplayoff game54-24 against Handsworth. The gameis at 3 p.m. on Thursday,
SeniorSun Devilsopenplayoffswith convincing win over Kelowna
IAN JACQUES
ijacques@delta-optimist.com
The senior varsity South Delta Sun Devilsareoff to the AAA footballplayoff quarterfinalsfollowing aconvincing35-6 win overthe Kelowna Owlsinthe round of16openingplayoff game last Friday. Following a scorelessfirst quarter, the Sun Devilsneeded a drive, andthey looked to theirleader Damian Dumas
who ranthe ball well, eventuallyfinding Luke Loganfor the game’s first TDon a 14-yardquick outthat he turnedupthe sideline.
South Delta gotthe ball back on a perfect punt by Kelownathat was downed at the half yard-line, withonly three minutes to go inthe half.
spiral that found Quinn Sjoberg behind the Owlsdefenceforan87-yard TD strike.
Thethirdquartercontinued to go South Delta’s wayas the Owls struggled to move the ball.
Threethirdquarter scores came from Dumasoneight- andnine-yard runsanda20-yard scorefrom Will Jollymore.
Thedefence wasled by Alex Taylor’s
eighttacklesandthelinebackercore of Luke Dunn with eighttackles, Willem ter Keursand Hudson Robinson both with sixtackles.
Dumasfinished with 105 rushing yardsand twoTDs, Sjoberg had112 receiving yardsanda TD, and Jollymore had66 yards rushingandone TD.
South Deltameets Centennialon Friday night (Nov.14) witha7:30 p.m. kick-off at BurnabyLakes.
Nov. 13 (today) at Mackie Park Turf in North Delta.
JIMKINNEAR PHOTO
Thejunior varsity South DeltaSun Devilsare
round of the B.C. High School footballplayoffsaftera27-14 win over Terry Fox.
of Greater Vancouverrealtors2024
604-315-2533 |nataliemordaunt.com
4bed |4 bath |1,841sqft
Best unitinSeaside —beautifullyrenovated, bright,and move-inready. $1,199,000
Natalie handled thesaleofmyhouse with greatskill and professionalismandachieved an outstandingresult. At each stage,fromlistening to my storyandmygoalsin selling, right through to thefinalnegotiationsshewas very pleasanttodeal with,andheradvicewas spoton. Sheworkedveryhardin managing theprocessandhelpingresolve issuesastheyarose. Iwould recommendherwithout reservation! -EdMcCloskey -Tsawwassen
5bed| 3bath| 2,904sqft
Solid family home in afriendlyneighbourhood withtwodriveways androom to grow. $1,450,000
R3060301 Discoverthischarming4-bedroom, 3-bathroomhomenestled in oneof Tsawwassen’s mostsought-afterneighbourhoods.Enjoy summer evenings on theprivate patio beneatha magnificent oak tree, cookandentertainin theopen-concept kitchen,andhostcozyfamily gamenightsinthe spaciousbasement complete withawetbar.The lowerleveloffers excellent flexibility— easily convertedintoaself-contained suiteora profitable Airbnb. This hometruly must be seen to be appreciated! 5316BelairDrive
54517BAve,Tsawwassen
OPENHOUSE SATURDAY 12-2pm
Welcomehome!Thiswell maintained5-bedroom, 3-bathroom family home,perfectly nestledona generous 13,044 sq ft lotoffers ablendof comfort, space,and flexibility.Ideal forgrowingfamilies and thoseinneedofextraroom to live, work,and entertain,you will finditall hereonapeaceful culdesachomejuststepsaway from Southpark ElementarySchooland SouthDelta Secondary School.Thedetachedgaragepresentsanexciting opportunityfora home-basedoffice,creativestudio, guestsuite,oradditional livingspace-tailoredtoyour uniqueneeds.Withits largelot size,there’splentyof outdoor spacefor kids to play,gardenenthusiaststo thrive,or future expansionpossibilities.This rare find offersbothimmediatecomfort &long-term potential.
7946
Attention Builders and Investors! An incredible opportunity awaits you! This coveted corner lot hasnotbeenon themarketfor43 years, making it ararefind. Envision your family’s dreamhome, orexplorethepotentialtobuild aduplexorevena fourplex (checkwiththe CityofDelta fordetails). With itsbrightandairy atmosphere, thislotcould be theperfectcanvas foryournextproject. Don’t miss outon this unique chance!
Phone: 604-644-5821
www.georgiaprimar.com
Email:georgia@sutton.com
1254 Pacific Dr.
2,857sq.ft. 5Bed /4 Bath Prepaid99 yearLease.
$1,499,000 5276 3Ave. 4Bed/3 Bath ~2,516sq.ft. 9376sq.ft. lot Solid family homeinagreat location.
Breathtaking viewsofgolf course andmountains from this fourth floor unitinconcrete buildingatmuchdesired TsawwassenSprings.Many upgrades, hardwood floors, high ceilings,upgradedkitchen with quartz counters,stainlesssteel appliances andbuiltin Boschcappuccino machine. Open conceptliving/ diningarea. A12by12foot balconywithnatural gasheating andBBQ hook up.Geothermalheating andair conditioning.Two bedroomsand two bathroomswithheatedfloor in primarysuite,Insuite storageand stepstofine dining,coffee shop andgolfcourse.
$2,390,000
5845 Whitcomb Place MLS# R3065443
This custom-built 2024 Beach Grovehome, designed bya contractor forhis ownfamily, spares no expense. It features aluxurykitchen with highendappliances andquartz countertops, ensuitebathrooms in everybedroom with 11-foot ceilings,and spacious mediaand greatrooms forentertaining. With radiant heating, airconditioning, anda privateyardsteps from the beachand golf course,thisdream home offerscomfort andelegance in aprime location.
Welcome tothe home that truly hasitall!This 15-year-young custom-builtgemblends comfort &function withgrandliving/ dining rooms, sleekvinylfloors& cozyfireplace. Thekitchenshines withgranite,customcabinetry, wine fridge,SSappliances&a separate chef’s kitchen. Mainfloor also offers abright eating area, familyroom,office,2nd primary bdrm,laundry with abrandnew washer/ dryer&alegal 1-bdrm suite Upstairsfeatures aspacious primarywith ensuite &WIC plus3 more bdrms(one ensuite).Outside: detachedguestsuite/studiowith 2piecebthrm,covered deck for entertaining,double garage,huge driveway& Walktoschools,shops, Lions Park &boat launch -this family home hasitall. $2,284,000
14 6250 48AAVENUE
Fully renovatedupper rancherstyle townhousewith 2bedrooms +den (or 3rdbedroom), 2.5baths, and1,700 sq.ft.of bright living space. Featuresnew kitchen, baths, flooring,lighting, andappliances,plus on-demand hotwater.Open layoutwith gas fireplace,white cabinets,quartz counters, and blackstainless appliances. Bothbedrooms have ensuites.Enjoytwo sunnydecks, garage +extraparking, in aquiet location near Holly School.
LADNER 307475853St 2bed 2bath1051sqft. $729,000
Thor778-994-8314 thor@matsonrealestate.ca
Kate604-836-0462 kate@matsonrealestate.ca
TSAWWASSEN 103115354ASt. 3 bed |2 bath |1359sq.ft. $758,000
Calloremailto placeyourad, Monday through Friday 8:00amto4:00pm 236-889-6595
ahogan@glaciermedia.ca
Book youradonlineanytimeat
glc.navigahub.com/portal/classified/glc/del/entry
In Memoriam
Alexander MunroDavidson
July 21, 1925- November 17,2008
Aloved, loving Father When someone youlove becomes amemory, Thememorybecomes aTreasure. ForeverMissingYou! Your lovingdaughterLyndsay, Irene,family&friends
STRUKOFF, Mike
DadpassedawayonOctober 12 in his88thyear.Predeceasedbyhis wife of 62 years, Bev (Swenson), andhis granddaughter,Taryn.Survived byhisfive children,Shawn &Sherri, Kim&David,Troy&Jackie,Todd& Michelle,and Pam &James andtheirfamilies.
Definedbymanyas auniquecharacter.Dad wasalifelongcommercial fishermanandspent most ofhis life workingonornearthe water.His first fishboatbeingdugoutof the mudinQueensborough,where hegrewup.
Hismanypassionswereskiing,golfing,andridinghis prizedHarley Davidson.Topofthelist,however, wasbeachcombingforlogsinCanoe Passand choppingfirewood.Hespent50 yearsbuilding uphisProperty and MarinaonWesthamIsland,andit continuestoflourish today. He also leaves behindhisfaithfulcompanion, Tugger.Hewill be missedbymany.
A hugethank youtoall oftheamazing nursesanddoctorsattheDelta Hospital whotook suchgreatcareofDad.Thanksalso to Dr Naylorfor all her yearsofcare for Mum &Dad.
No service by request.
AnnieKassof f July 24, 1939- October23,2025
It is with love and gratitude that we remember thelife of AnnieKassoff,whopassedawaypeacefully at homeinLadner,British Columbia.
Annielived afull and vibrant life, marked by kindness, laughter,and adeepappreciation forthe people and worldaroundher.She spent35 years workingfor AirCanada, whereshe made lifelong friendsandembraced thejoy of traveland connection. Afterher retirement,she workedat the HotelVancouver,Vancouver ConventionCentre, Ricky’sinLadner,and Thrifty’sFoods in Tsawwassen, connecting with people- oneofher greatestjoys.
Annieenjoyedher lifeinLadner,sharingstories over coffee,tending to her garden,and celebratinglife’s small, beautiful moments. Shemet many people throughpet sitting, fulfillingher love ofanimals,and felt blessedtobesurrounded by thoughtfuland supportive neighbours, whichmade it possibleto age in place.
Though Anniehadno childrenofher own, she pouredher love and warmth into thelivesofher godchildren, Brian(Kerri) and Sheryl (Chris), and theirchildren, Chloeand Harley,who were her family.She will be misseddearly by eachofthem.
Shewill be remembered forhergenerous spirit,her determination,andherunwaveringabilitytomake othersfeel valuedand loved. Hermemorywillliveon in thehearts of her family andher many dear friends whowill forevercherishthe warmth and joyshe brought into theirlives.
Acelebrationoflifewillbeheldinhonour ofAnnieonSaturday, November 15,2025,at 1-3pmat Fisherman'sHall,Ladner,BC.Please RSVPto anniecelebration2025@gmail.com
DavidLai
December 19,1966- November6,2025
It is with deep sadnessthat we announcethe suddendeparture ofourdear husband,dad, friendand colleague,David Laion November 6th,2025. Knowing hislove of agoodjoke, we allexpectedhim to jump up fromhishospitalbedand shout, “Justkidding!”
DavidwasborninVancouver to Jimmy, King YouLaiand Winnie, SuiMingChiu on December 19,1966. Predeceased by hisparents, grandparentsLai Be Hop& ChongLai Yinganduncle York Chan,he is survived by his105 year-old grandmother,Lam KaiSun, wife Grace(nee Nottingham), daughtersOlivia& Alicia,brother Simon, sister-in-lawAnne &niece Caitlyn;aunt AliceChan,uncles Steven, Soong (Heidi)& Jeff Chiu,aunt SueChiu; cousinsSherman, Eugene, Kevin(Jessica), Jane,Brian, Janice (Kevin), Nick,Frederick& littleKyler;in-laws Bert& Betty Nottingham;Ann, Dave,Marie,Nick& littleChaz Burgoyne; Peter, Angie, Daniel,Jesse &Raquelle Nottingham;and many cousins.
Davidattended General BrockAnnex& Sexsmithelementarybeforegraduating from Churchill Secondaryin1984. He also earned a2.5 yeardiplomain Operations Management from BCIT.David wasa computergeek wholoved to open thingsup to seehow they work.HeworkedasPNE Agrodomemaintenance crew then salesmanat Woodwards ComputeorPlay, Super Software and Dunne &RundleCameras.Heopened GastownPhotowithhis good friend John Hadfield in 1997.Healsoinstalledphotofinishing machinespriortojoining London Drugs in 2014,first in thephotofinishingdepartment,then moving to the Headoffice with TLDhelpdeskand then Internal Sales.
Davidwasanactive memberateach church heattended startingat Metropolitan Tabernacle atage 7yrs.Heaccepted theLordat12yrs while at Sunshine Camp inPoint Robertsand wasbaptizedat 16 yrs. He movedovertoOakridge Baptist in1992afterhesaw Grace. It took 12 monthsofpersistent,Tuesday nightphone calls beforeshe finally said “yes”toadate! They marriedin1994andadopted 11month-olds Alicia &Olivia from Chinain 2006. His“butterflykisses” girlswerethe highlightofhislife.
Together Davidand GraceservedinOakridge,Ladnerand Richmond Baptist churches.Hewas AWANAgames leader,SundaySchool teacher,youthleader, soundman, Deacon,boardmemberand chiefBBQBurger man. Forten yearshe andGraceserved withtheMigrant Worker Ministry of FEBPacific while also beingDad &Mom to 20 international studentsfromKorea, Japan, Thailandand China. They alsosponsored twochildreninElSalvador through Compassion Canada.
Davidfound humour in everysituation,as managers& seniorpastors canattest. No one wassafeincluding thedoctors &nurseswho caredforhim. Thefamily wishes to thank theERstaff at Delta& Surrey Memorial hospitals,Royal Columbian PD unit, Home Hemodialysis unitinNew West,and VGHcardiac& transplantunits.Thank you, Dr.David Kason, Dr.Sharan Karwaland Dr.Benny Bar-Shlomo fortryingtoget Davidtotakehis health more seriously!
In lieuofflowers,pleaseconsider sponsoring achild through Compassion Canadaordonatingtothe DeltaHospitalFoundation.
Thank youfor sharinghislaughterand joy!
BrianVerranThomas 1938 -2025
Briandiedpeacefully in theafternoonof Sunday, October5,aged92, in KinVillage in Tsawwassen, surrounded by hisimmediatefamily. He is survived by histhree lovingdaughters, Margaret,Frances, andElizabeth; theirmother,Emily;andhisthree grandchildren, Emilia,Mateo,andLilli. Brian was predeceased by hisparents, Stanand Irene Thomas,andhissisters,Sharon (Johnson) and Elaine (Holgate). He islovinglyremembered by his sister,Marilynn(King),brother,John Thomas,and membersofthe extensiveThomasfamily.
Brianservedasa Flying Officerinthe RCAF. With hisfather,StanThomas, he wasactivelyinvolvedin developing CableTVonthe NorthShore(the precursortoDelta Cable).
Fromhislateteens to hismid-eighties, Brian enjoyedextensiveandadventurous travelsacross theglobe.Hewasalso well-knowninthephilatelic community bothlocally and internationally.
Brianwill be remembered forhislove of family,his quietdemeanour,andhisinterestinall aspects of worldaffairs.
Ourfamilythanksthe staffatKin Village fortheir tender care forBrian.
SharonLee Evicksonpassedawaypeacefully on the morningofAugust25,2025at RCH.
Sharon is survived by herhusbandof37 years (Glen),her cherisheddaughter (Ashley) andpartner (Brockton),her sister (Jennifer) andbrother (Rick).
Sharon metherhusband, Glen, in Vancouver where they marriedin1988, then movedtoLadner in 1990. Shestartedout workinginthe musicbusinessinan administrationrole, enjoyingthe lifestyle which included weekend retreat tripstoRandy Bachman’s housegatherings in Lynden, WA.
Later,shebecamealegalassistantand thenan executiveassistant to BudKankeinthe restaurant businesses. Budwouldoften commentonhow important shewas to histeam running the restaurantsand launchingnewventures.Afterher daughter wasborn, SharonbecameanMOA workingInLadner so shecouldspend more time with her family.
Sharon lovedattendingherdaughter’s horseshows and watchingher competeinvarious show jumping eventsthrough theyears, providingplentyof homemadebakegoods forall. Shecouldoftenbe seenaroundLadner walkingherbeloved French bulldog,Molly,andbringing asmile to others.
Sharon will be missedbyall butnever forgot t en. We love you,always.
Aprivate family servicewill beheld asperher wishes.
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