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Ladnernow hometo world lacrossechampion
IAN JACQUES ijacques@delta-optimist.com
Jared Maznikdoesn’tthinkitis real.
The Ladner native helped lead Canada to theU20 World Lacrosse Championship with a thrilling 6-5 win last week overthe U.S. in JeJu, South Korea.
The titleis a first-ever men’s U20 titleand in theprocess, snappeda streakofnine goldmedalsforthe U.S.
GoaltenderGrayson Manning, from Victoria, made a buzzer-beating save inthe final.
The two teams have battled in thefinal forthe last six editionsofthe Men’s U20 Championship.
“It’s pretty incredible,” Maznik said.
“I’m just proud to be a part ofthe team and to be a part ofthisexperience.”
Maznik was also instrumentalinfront of net with17 pointsand was named to the World Teamfor Canada.
“I played well, but it was more the team that I was with. We had only been together for a pretty short time, and we had to build the chemistry quickly and we didanexcellent job withthat,” he said.
“It was just thewhole team buying into the opportunity andthe experienceand being able to achie never beendonefor
well,it was more theplayers aroundme that helped me get there.”
After losing 7-6 to the U.S. to openthe tournament, Canada reeled off wins over Australia (13-4),the Haudenosaunee NationalsLacrosse Organization(13-8),and Jamaica (21-1), setting up a semifinal game against Australia inwhich Canada won 13-5 setting upthefinal withtheAmericans
“What it came down to was the leaders of our team. When wewere going out and doing things togetherduring thetrip, all23 guys were going out. It was anentire teambonding experience,” he said.
“It was just a different desire to win. The coaching staff toldusthey have never been a part of a U20 Team Canadateamthat was thistight, that came together so quickly, so it was just everyone buying inand believing we could win gold.”
Maznik recently was named 27th out of the top 50 box lacrosse players in Canada.
He is a former Delta Islanderwholed the team in scoring before he was traded to Nanaimofortheirplayoff run. He was the top scorerfor Nanaimoas well.
Maznikisnow off to Harvard University forhis second year withtheNCAA Division 1 Crimson lacrosse team.
“I’m excited I want to buildoffthishigh
JaredMaznik, fromLadner, scored 17 pointsin Team Canada’s U20 World Lacrosse Championship titleinJeJu, South Korea. Now, he’s off toHar vard University, in Boston,Mass., forhissecond yearwitha Division1, lacrosseteam.
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ContacteditorIanJacquesviaemail: ijacques@delta-optimist.com or call 604-998-3616
Delta SchoolDistrict welcomes back students
SANDOR GYARMATI
sg yarm ati@delta-optimis t.
co m
It’s anexciting timeas Delta schools welcomed back students toclassrooms this week.
“We’re just excited to get the year going and the feedback that we’ve already gottenisthat there’s a real positive attitude right now at schools, the administrators and teachers, Ever yone is feeling good about this year, sowe can get down what we’re really here for,” said Board of Education Chair Joe Muego inan Optimist interview with school board officials Tuesday.
Muego notes the districtis half-way throughits Vision2030, a guidingdocument for the district with the newest strategicplan,covering the period 2025 to 2028,detailing how to achieve those goals.
He said the planallows the board to see how well the district has done and make necessary adjustments, with annual reviews of data.
Areas they planisfocusing on includeimproving student outcomes in literacy but also math, which includes MathMindsthat will be in19elementary schools this year
Aimed at assisting teachers as well as students who may be havinga harder time with math, the program isan even more “scripted” approach for teaching the subject.
MathMindsis a math teaching and learning framework called “Structured Inquiry” , which includesminute-byminute assessments of student learning. Initially launched as a pilot at Gray Elementary during the 2021/22 school year, feedback from both studentsand teachers was positive, highlighting improvementsin student engagement andlearning, according to the district
Noting the program isalso inplace at some Grade 8 classes, Superintendent Doug Sheppard said the program helps teachers gather immediate feedback of student understanding ofconcepts,
which allows teachers to ramp up to the next skill at the same paceasmost of the class, while havinga betterunderstanding which studentsneed more assistance before high schoollevel math.
Also noting he’s proud ofthe work by schoolsandadministrators carr ying outDelta’s Justiceand Equity Action Plan, Muego said Integrated Childand Youth Teamsnow have the staffforthe program to assist kidsand theirfamilies to be connected with appropriate community supports
The teamsare to reduce barriers
to accessing services, providing connections to clinicalcounsellors, youth substance-use andmental-health clinicians, those supporting Indigenous childrenand youth, as wellasfamily and youth peer-support workers.
The district received funding to start up the program last year
Asfaras classroom space, work on a new six-class additionforLadner Elementar y isalso complete, a $9millionproject.
The schooldistrictisprojectinga decrease of221 students this year, down to 16,175 pupils, asnotenough children have beenentering Kindergarten to replacegraduating Grade12 students
The board will receive the preliminary headcount enrolment numbers for 2025/26 later this month
This week, the district will make final decisionsonallowingout-of-district students to enrolonce space availability in the various schools has beendetermined, said Sheppard,noting once those studentsare allowed to enrol, they can stay enroled in Deltaforthe durationof their schooling.
Whenitcomes to international studentsfor this year, the district currently has 475new studentsin the program, as wellas172 who are returning.
The biggest challenge is having enoughlocal householdsin thehomestay program for those students, added Sheppard.
Backtoschool time fora reminderoftherules ofthe road
PHIL MELNYCHUK
pmeln yc huk @d elta-optimis t.co m
Summeris over and the Delta Police Department is reminding motoriststhat schoolis back asof Sept.2 and the roads will be busy, and school zones will be in effect.
That meansmotorists can’texceed 30kmhduring school days in those zones.
Policeon socialmedia are asking motorists to slow down in school zones, yield to pedestriansand to watch for studentsnearcrosswalks.
“Parents, takea moment to remind your students to look both ways before crossing and to put away theirphones while walking,” said Const. Millar “… back to schoolis a
busy time …by staying alert and slowing down, making sure every student gets to school and home safety.”
Safety is a shared responsibility so everyone shoulddo their part to make this school year safe for every student, Delta police say.
Out on the highway, B.C. RCMP Highway Patrolare reminding people to buckleupand keep their eyeson the road.
B.C. RCMP Highway Patrol has launched Distracted Driving and Occupant Restraint Month in B.C. for the monthof September.
Throughout September, Mounties will be working with partners, “to do education through enforcement and make the roads safer.”
Cpl. Michael
McLaughlin said many motor vehicledeaths this year wouldnot have happened if people had been
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wearing their seatbelts.
“Before tragedy strikes, we ask you to get your eyes back onthe roadand make sure everyoneis properly belted,” he said. Distracted driving is now oneof the top-three killers on B.C. roads, alongside speeding and impairment, say RCMP.
“If you pick up your phone while driving, even at a stoplight, you are distracted,” said McLaughlin.
“Even if thephone is mounted,and you do more than a single screen touch, then you are distracted.”
• Use electronicdevice while driving, section 214.2(1)of the Motor Vehicle Act ($368);
• Use anelectronic device while driving inviolationofdriver’s licence restriction, Section30.072(1)(a)of the B.C. Motor Vehicle Act Regulations($368).
“If youignore those laws, itcould be deadly to you, your passengers, and the peoplearound you,” McLaughlin said.
New accessible playground coming toLadnerpark
SANDOR GYARMATI
sg yarm ati@delta-optimi st .c om
A new playgroundis coming to a Ladner park thisfall.
The City of Delta recently announced work is getting under way on constructionof a new playground at Bell Park
The finaldesign option selected includes a barrier-free accessiblemerrygo-round, a moulded bucket swing seat for inclusivity,expanded rubber surfacing for accessibility and a seating area with benches andpicnictable
Theoldplayground equipment will be closed for removal,however, to meet requestsformore swings,theexisting swing set will stay with
The park upgradealso includesmovingthe playground to the east sideofthe sitecloser to amenities, shiftingthe U5 baseballdiamond to make roomforthenew playground,planting trees to improve shade, upgrading baseball backstopsas wellas
addressing fielddrainageissues.Earlierthis year,thecityissued a requestforproposalsfor theconstructionofthe newplayground,noting the budget,inclusiveof allassociated costsfor the newplayground, was $280,000,exclusiveof GST.
Theplayground was part ofan overall series ofupgradesplannedfor the park,includingthe replacementofthe ball diamond backstop.
Thecity’s2025
Financial Plan had $250,000 budgeted for the Bell Park backstop.
Thecity hasalso been planningadrainageand irrigationupgradefor park having$500,000 budgeted forthedesign andconstruction.
Bigsockeye run also surprised Tsawwassen First Nation
PHILMELNYCHUK
pmeln yc huk @d elta-optimis t.co
m
The silver sockeye came back inbig numbers this summer putting smiles onthefaces of Tsawwassen First Nation.
About 20fishers with theTFN have been onthe water off Roberts Bank, Steveston andtheFraser River, enjoying the surprise.
“People are just beaming and smiling right now,” saidKrystal Lockert, manager ofenvironmental stewardship withTFN.
While about 2.7 million sockeye were predicted to show up, about 10 million decided to make thetrip uptheFraser River this summer
“It tookus a bitoff guard, because as you know it’s not a dominant yearfor sockeye,” said
Lockert. “It’s actually next year wewere anticipating a big run.
“It’sa realfeel-good story because salmon, particularly sockeye, … it’s something that they have always had,” andthe lack of access to sockeye overthe years has been sad.”
She pointed out TFN hasn’t hada sockeye community food fishery since 2022.
There are other species of salmon but sockeye connects everyonein the community with canning andsmoking activities, she added.
“Even havinga little bit ofthat back is a reminder, o having theopportunity to have sockeye, three years removed fromthe last time, is really well appreciated in our community,” she said.
as surprised asany at the size ofthis year’s early Stuart River sockeye run, saying they haven’t been able to fishthose since 2008.
While somecriticize Fisheriesand Oceans Canada foritspredictions ofthe run size, Lockert says it’s not easy to be exact
And with sockeye, it’s difficult to know the size ofthe run until test fisheries have taken place
Closure offishfarms andcooler ocean temperaturesthe last few years are two possible explanationsforhealthier salmon returns.
“There’snoone kind ofsmoking gun to point
to it,” she said.
And maybe all the salmon habitat restorationprojectsare starting to have aneffect, she added.
One possible explanationisthat more salmon are escaping theAlaska fishery farthernorth.
Lockert saidthere’s always lots of back and forth between the stakeholders onthe Pacific Salmon Commission, including theAmericans, she said.
“Basically, we have to share to anextent.” And she recognized commercialfishers do have a lot ofconcernsand have been really fairintheir discussions withTFN, she said.
As well, with respect to escapement, “youwant to allow somefish to be caught.
“You don’t want to
allow anexcess… to make itthe spawning grounds,” Lockert said, adding that could hurt future returns.
“I think ever yoneis looking at what the best possible outcomeisfor thefutureofthefish.”
Tsawwassen First Nationoperatesacommunityfisheryinwhich the nation buys the salmonfromthefishers, thendistributesit to Tsawwassenmembers
She added they’re responsible just as much asanyone else forthe future ofthefishand following regulations.
“It’sa realpriority forus to be transparent aboutwhat we’redoing andhow we’redoingit.”
Another late summer sockeye run may happen while a huge run ofpink salmon, possibly 27 million, isexpected later.
Pleasevisitkinvillage.orgfor afulllisting of FREE events,programs,andactivities.
Simple structures help control raging stormwaters
PHIL MELNYCHUK pmeln yc huk @d elta-optimis t.co m
The City of Delta is putting the word out… it’s looking for volunteers who may want to tidy up a little green space, do some weeding and make a small contribution to the environment while doing so.
Two levels of volunteering are available, one being anofficial rain garden adopter, where volunteerhours are tracked and which requires a one-year commitment.
The otherisaninformal adopter, where volunteers follow their own schedule cleaning up garbage, clearing intakes and doing light weeding.
The city recently posted about its rain garden program, with a link telling residentsthat heavier fall and winter rainsare now more likely.
That meansmore water into the storm drains, increasing pollutionanderosion.
Rain gardenshowever, with vegetation, rocks and soilthat captures storm waterflowsfrom roadsand buildings, slows runoff, so the water percolatesinto theground, recharging streamsandgroundwater.
Rain gardens also reducetheheat island effect, providefood for pollinators, and beautify communities, says the city.
The programbegan almost two decades ago, afterinitially being promoted by the Cougar Creek Streamkeepers.
Now there are 40 such rain gardens, most located on NorthDelta school grounds
That helps the water qualityfor CougarCreek
watershed area, said Harvy Takhar, utilities engineer withthe city.
“The salmon love it We’re seeinga slow trend ofmore spawners coming back, slowly,” he said.
“We’re just happy to see the results, which is exciting.”
Formercity drainage engineer HughFraser, who passed away recently, started the rain garden program in partnership withthe schooldistrict.
Takhar is now leading the program andbrought another element to itin 2018 by introducing the “curb cutsprogram.”
His goal was to divert as much stormwater into green spaceas possible andthemost effective way to do that was doing curbcuts.
That involves removing sectionsofthe curb on a road to allow rain water to draininto nearby veg-
etationand landscape, instead of rushing down storm drains
Those, along with rain gardens, are now installed during the early constructionphasesof a city project.
According to a 2024 article in Waterbucket.ca, roadsaccount for a third ofthe landarea of a typical urban watershed.
While thecity has been steadily installing rain gardensfor almost two decades, there hasn’t yet been a cost-benefitanalysisdone, Takhar said.
That would analyze whetherthe money invested in rain gardens saves having to spend moneyupgrading drainage systems.
“In theory,if you do a large enough rain garden, you can definitely offset that.”
For example,a couple more rain gardens simi-
This raingardendivertsrunofffromtheschool roofandparkinglotintotheCougarCreekecosystem.Thecityinvitesorganizationstojoininthe Adopt-A-RainGardenprogram.
lar to the big BC Hydro McCloskey Rain Garden, nearthe schoolofthe same name, would make a significant difference, he said.
“That can handle a lot of water. We’re talking millions of litres a year,” headded.
That was built in2017
and diverts runofffrom the school roofand parking lot into the Cougar Creek ecosystem, says the Delta schooldistrict.
The goalis to install a rain garden ever y year, Takharadded.
“You’d be surprised at how much water we can re-divert,” he said.
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The first day ofschool
Editor’s Note
IAN JACQ UES
Thisis an exciting and busy weekfor many in our community.
Tuesday marked theofficial back to school day across theDelta SchoolDistrict.
I know there wasa level ofexcitement,at my sister ’s house Tuesday morning asthe alarm clock went off, signalling the endofthe summer breakfor my niece Paytonand my nephew Declan.
Paytonis starting her first year of high school –attending Grade8 at Burnsview Secondar y in NorthDelta and Declan his Grade7 year at Richardson Elementary. I’m superproud to be theiruncleand seeing themgrow upand entering thisnext chapterisamazing.
It wasa long time ago, butI remember many first days of school back in Saskatchewan where my family lived until we moved to B.C. in my Grade 7 year.
There was the anticipationof putting on your new school clothesandshowing offthe latest trends to yourfriendsin the hallways
I remember going back to schoolshopping with my mom to pick out thecool pencil case, lunch box and notebooks and packing itallin abrand-new backpack.
Why usingbig words can make you soundsmall
In today’s age of selfbranding and LinkedIn swagger, it seems some folks believe that sprinkling in “complicated” vocabulary makes them soundintelligent.
The twist? It doesn’t In fact, misusing high-sounding words can make you lookless like a scholarand more like a dictionar y with foodpoisoning.
The Delta Optimist is a member of theNationalNewsmedia Council, whichisanindependent organization established to deal with acceptablejournalistic practices andethicalbehaviour If you have concernsabouteditorial content please contact theeditor at: ijacques@delta-optimist.com or call 604-998-3616 If you are not satisfiedwiththe responseand wish to file a formal complaint, visit the website atmediacouncil. ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163 for additional information.
There were also thener ves ofthe moment. Meeting new teachers, taking new subjects, learninga new routine. I’m sure we all hada fewtroubles gettingthat schoollocker code thefirst time that we triedit.
Back to school signalsnot just the start of a new school year, but thenext chapter forthe many children andtheir familiesin our community.
I wish all our families agreat back to school and a great start to a new school year Kudos and best of luck as well to all our teachers, administrators, support staff, bus drivers, crossing guards andanyoneelsewho help to make the school journey forallthe students amemorableone.
Case in point: I recently overheard someonedecline brunch withtheexplanation, “I can’t join, I’m feeling very photosynthesis today.”
Now,unless they were sprouting leavesandleaning toward the sun,what they really meant was “I’mtired.”
Andhonestly? That would have donethe job just fine
The truthisthat research suggeststhat clarity— short, simple words used correctly ismore persuasive and memorablethaninflated language
Harvard Business Review evenfoundthat leaders who
WA
RREN DE ANFLAN DE Z
communicate simply are perceived assmarter and more trustworthy.
In other words, saying “I’mtired” trumps “I’m experiencing existential fatigue vis-à-viscircadian misalignment.”
Ofcourse, words are powerful. Expanding your vocabular y is a wonderful thing. But there’sa difference between knowing a word andusing itcorrectly.
Thinkof words like seasoning: a pinch of“juxtapose” here orthere can add
flavour. Dump thewhole spice rack into the soup, and suddenly you’ve ruined dinner
So why do peopledoit? Sometimesit’s insecurity. Sometimesit’s an attempt to impress. And sometimes it’s just habit. But here’s the kicker: studiesshow that when peopletr y too hard to “soundsmart,” they’re often rated asless intelligent by their peers.
The fixis simple If you don’tfully understand a word, don’t wielditlikea sword. Communicate with clarity, notcomplexity. B Because nothing says, “I skipped reading the instructions”like misusinga fivesyllable word wherea onesyllableone woulddo
At the endofthe day, intelligenceisn’t about dazzling vocabulary. It’s about being understood.Andif your sentences soundlike Word ofthe Day toilet paper wrote them, maybe it’s time to flush the habit.
No savings in delayinghire of new Deltacity manager
Editor :
Asa retired long-serving Deltacouncillor,I had hoped to leave day-today politics behind. But Mayor George Harvie’s recent comments about delaying thehiring of a new city manager until afterthenext election demand a response.
By stating publicly that “thenext councilshould choose thenewcity manager,” the mayor has draggeda confidential human resources matter into theopen.
In any workplace, publicorprivate, openly discussing personnel matters violatesoneof the most basic rulesof governance It undermines council’s roleas employers and makes their jobsunnecessarily difficult In other municipalities, elected officials
have beencensured for less. Equally troubling is the argument that leaving city hall without a permanent city manager for more than a year would “save taxpayers money.”
Whoever isacting in the role earnsthefullcity manager’s salary,while their regular position must either be backfilled orleft vacant.
That meansno savings, only reduced service orextra costs The city manager oversees every department. Leaving that positioninlimbo for 14 monthsisnotfinancial prudence, it’s poor leadership.
More concerning still isthemessage this sends that the mayor doesnot want to work with a candidate most of thecouncil may choose By postponing thehire, heis making
abig assumptionthat he would be re-elected with a majority and couldthen make thedecisionhimselfinthenext term That underminesthe resultsof the last electionand turns thecity manager position into a partisanprize.
Delta residentselect theircouncil to servea fullfour-year term, not three That includes the responsibility to ensure strong and stableleadership at cityhall right upuntiltheendoftheir mandate. Deferring this decision weakens governanceandshortchanges citizens
Council must move for ward withhiring the best-qualified candidate now.
Deltadeserves steady leadership, not political maneuvering Bruce McDonald
Bordernumbers continue to drop for Point Roberts
Editor :
Po in t Ro be rt s monthl y bo rd ercros si ng da tafrom U. S. Bu re au of Trans po rt at ion St at isticssho w th at for themonthof Ju ly , in 1996,252,685individuals cros se d forthe mon th.
Go to 2018andthe to talis157,913. Fo r Ju ly 2025itis90,251. From 1996 to 2025 a los s of162,434forthe monthof Ju ly
T ha tis whyI have b ee n sayin g th at the Po in t Ro be rt s ec onomy isnot su st ain ab leas thistrendcontinues.
Co mp o unde d by ou r 20-month b order l oc kdo wn durin g the COVI D
pa ndemicandno w th e U. S. -Canad a tariff wa r, se ri ou s proa ctiv e action mu st be takenfor Po in t Ro be rt s to su rv iv e le t alone grow . Mo st li ke ly analterna te for m of gove rnmen t is re quired to accomplishanythin g si gn ifican t. Br ia n Ca ld er
Thank youDeltaHospitalstaff
Editor :
My heartfelt thanksto the doctors, nurses, healthassistants, and support staff at Delta Hospitalfortheirexceptional care during my recent stay. Yourcompassionandprofessional-
COUNCILCONSIDERATION OF BYLAWS –SEPTEMBER 15,2025
Notice ishereby giventhatDelta City Councilwillconsidergiving first, second,and thirdreadings tothebylaw referencedbelow at itsRegularMeetingat 7:00 p.m. on Monday,September15, 2025 in theNorth DeltaCentre forthe Arts,Theatre,11425 84 Avenue,Delta, BC
Location: City-Wide
Applicant:City of Delta Proposal: Tointroducenew MixedUse Apartment 6(MU6) andMixed Use Apartment 6Rental(MU6R)zones to “Delta Zoning BylawNo. 7600,2017” formixed useresidentialbuildings in areas designated Neighbourhood Centresand Corridors(NC), UrbanCentre(UC),orScottRoad Corridor (SRC)under “DeltaOfficialCommunity PlanBylawNo. 8400,2024”.The MU6and MU6R zones wouldregulateuses,setbacks andheightfor mixed useresidentialbuildings up to six-storeys
StaffContact: Jeremy Keating –Planner,604-946-3201
FORMOREINFORMATIONREGARDINGTHE PROPOSAL
Materialsrelated to theproposalsuchasthe proposed bylaw,detailedmapsand otherinformation maybeinspected at DeltaCityHall, 4500 Clarence Taylor Crescent,Delta,BC, Mondayto Friday, excludingstatutory holidays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. from Thursday,September 4,2025 to Monday,September 15,2025
If youhavea generalinquiry regardingthe proposalor if youwouldlikeassistance to inspectany relevant documentation,pleasecontact theDevelopmentDepartment by emailat development@delta.caorbyphone at 604-946-3380
Correspondence received up to 12:00p.m. on Thursday, September 11,2025 will be included in the Agendapackage. Allcorrespondence must includeyournameand full address andwillform part of thepublicrecordfor theproposaland bepublished on theCity’swebsite
Email:mayor-council@delta.ca OR Writeto: Mayorand Council,City of Delta 4500 Clarence Taylor Crescent Delta, BC,V4K3E2
ism made a world ofdifferencein my recovery. Delta Hospitalis a pillarof our community. We are truly fortunate to havesuch a dedicated and outstanding team serving us.
Teresa Ardanaz
File No.P25-06 (Bylaw No.8521)
SPECIALTHANKSTO: THEWITTFAMILY THE WITT FAMILY The 5AnnualHeronHospiceClassicispresented by
Parents:teach yourchildren about e-bicycle saferiding
Editor :
We wererecently on a morning walkin our neighborhood.
My wifeis recovering fromaninjury, has impaired mobility, and uses polesas walking aids. As wewere about to round a treed corner,a young boy, perhaps 12or13, whipped towards usonan electricbike, followed by a friendalso onanelectric bike andmoving fast.
I yelled at them toslow down
The young boy onthe secondbike stopped and toldmethat he couldlegally rideonthe sidewalk at a maximum
speed of10kmh.I suggested that heshould rideonthe roadand noton the sidewalk. He replied that it was illegal to rideonthe road,and repeated that he was not going faster than 10kmh.
I could see that I wasn’t going to get anywhere withthis person. I simply added, “Look, we don’t want you to get hurt,and we don’t want us to get hurt, OK?”
They both rodeoff, on the road, the first boy somewhat sheepish, the second boy still defiant and surly
Myimmediate thought was, “Why would parents
buy electricbikes for healthy young boys?”
Doesnot appear very sensible to me.
Nevertheless, if you are those parents, and wish to indulge your childrenin such a manner, I would suggest that you teach them road rules and basic courtesy.
Thinkhow proud you will be when your neighbours compliment you onthe responsible behaviorof your children andontheir respectful manners. The time you spend teaching this to your children willbring its own reward
FrankBuonanno
Delta business groups pledge to unite for progress
In what the Delta Chamber of Commerce calleda ‘historic’ day ofunity,theleaders of Delta’s four major business organizations came together recently forthe first time to align on a shared visionforcollaborationand partnershipthat they hope will strengthenandelevate thelocal business community.
The meeting included Chamber executive director Richard Wischnewski, Tsawwassen Business Improvement Association president Warren Dean Flandez, Ladner Business
Associationpresident Jason Roberts and The Business Association Inspired in North Delta founding director and president IanTait
“Thisismore than a meeting. It’s a movement,” said Wischnewski.
“Together, we’re building bridges across our communities to create real, lasting impactfor businesses in Delta.”
The group discussed a range of potential initiatives, including joint events, business growth clinics, shared advocacy efforts, local economic development strategies,
andcross-community support programs designed to foster entrepreneurship, attract investment, anddrive sustainablegrowth
According to Wischnewski, thiscollaboration signalsthe beginning of a united front to support Delta’s business community in ways never seen before. Future plansinclude creatinga strategic game plan,shared calendarof events, coordinated business campaigns, andunified representation to all levelsof government. -Submitted
A recentmeeting washeldinvolvingthe fourmajorbusiness associationsin Delta.Picturedlefttoright;Jason Rober ts,Ian Tait, Warren DeanFlandezand Richard Wischnewski.
Nine Deltagroups get BCgaminggrants
SANDOR GYARMATI
sg yarm ati@delta-optimis t. co m
The Shameless Hussy Production Society received thehighest artsand culture provincial gaming grant amount this yearamong Delta-listed organizations
That’s according to the B.C. government, which announced last weekthe latest roundof Community Gaming Grants funding to support organizations in delivering accessible, communitycentred artsand culture programming.
In 2025,771not-for-profit organizations received more than$16.6 million to support the delivery of a range ofprograms, services and activities related to music, theatre and dance, as wellasliterary and visualarts, theprovince notes.
According to the latest 2025/26 yearto-date grant report, the society under the list of Delta, city recipients received $15,700.
That was followed by the Sidekick Players Club($15,000), Delta Choral
Society ($13,000), Mandala Arts and Culture Society ($11,200), Delta Community Music School Society ($10,000), Delta Stageworks Theatre Society ($6,500), Delta Community Band Society ($4,900), Soundscape A Cappella Chorus Society ($3,000)and the Ladner Village Quilters Society ($1,500).
“When we support artsand culture, we’re investing in the stories, skills, and spacesthatmake our communities feel like home,” said Delta North ML A Ravi Kahlon in a news release. “Thisfunding helps make that possible,”
The Community Gaming Grantsprogram distributes$140 million overall annually fromcommercial gambling revenues to not-for-profit organizations, theprovince explains
Three different types ofgrants are availablethroughtheprogram including Parent Advisory Council (PAC) and District Parent Advisory Council (DPAC) Grants, Capital Project Grantsand Program Grants.
You’llachievesomething remarkablethisweek! Your hardworkandefficiencywill be rewardedwith araise. Rememberthatimpulsiveness andimpatiencehavenoplace in arelationshipbasedon trustand respect.
HOWTOPLAY: Fillinthegridsothat everyrow,every columnand every3 x3box contains thenumbers 1through 9onlyonce Each 3x3box isoutlinedwith a darkerline. Youalreadyhave a fewnumbers to get youstarted. Remember:youmustnot repeatthe numbers 1through 9inthesameline, columnor 3x3 box.
Deltapoliceofficers gearup for Cops for Cancer
JAME S SANDBERG De lta Po lic e
In NorthDelta, there’sa little girl named Lilah wholoves to giggle, play, and chase bubbles in the backyard
She’s only two years old, butfor half of her young life, she’s been ona difficult journey.
Lilah is one year into a three-year treatment planforleukemia.
Her mom, Holly,describes it simply: “When we received thenews about Lilah’s diagnosis, our lives changed forever One day wewere attending a birthday party,thenext, wewere living in isolation at Children’s Hospital for six weeks. Lilah is thebravest, strongest andmost resilient person we know. No parent or child should ever have to go through this hardship.”
Lilah’s stor y is not something happening far away—it’s here, in our community.
Childhood cancerdoesn’t discriminate It turns ever yday family’s upside
down It forces parents to become caregivers beyondtheir wildest imagination, siblings to grow up too fast, and children to trade playgroundsfor hospital andtreatment rooms.And yet, itis alsoa stor y ofcourage, community, andhope.
is more than a physical challenge—it’s a promise—apromise tokids like Lilah that their journey matters, that their community supportsthem, andthat together we can raise thefundsneeded for childhood cancer research andfor Camp Goodtimes,a camp where kids facing cancer can laugh, play, and simply be kids again.
For our officers, ever y pushofthe pedals is for childrenwho can’t Ever y kilometre is for families whoneed a break fromtheendless doctor visits and treatments
“We ridefor kids like Lilah because it reminds themthey’re notalone. That means ever ything,” said Wellis.
But this isn’t just their ride—it’s ourstoo. As a community, we all have a role to play, whetherthroughdonations, cheering onthe riders, or simply sharing Lilah’s story. With increased research, thehope is one day we will have communities that are free from childhood cancers. Afterall, ever y child deser ves to grow up cancer-free
US VehicleLowmileageThis beautifulvehiclehasNavi,Back upSensor,Heatfrontseats. Tires good,recentoilchange,Ready togo!!!!!!Availableforfinance!!! !!!Welcometotradein!!!
JAME S SANDBERG PHOTO
S/Sgt. Sarah Swallow, ConstableMeghanWellis,andConstableCody Fenske fromthe Delta Police Departmentareridinginthis year ’s Cops for Cancer Tourde Valley.
at the Stepbackintimewithusatthe heritage event of theFall! heritage event of theFall! TICKETS ONLINE $45 TICKETS ONLINE $45 deltaheritagesociety.ca deltaheritagesociety.ca
MetroVancouver’s 2026Budgeting ProcessisUnderway
We arenowplanningourbudgetfor2026and ourfive-yearfinancialplan— and wewantto hearfromyou.
Community Earthwise Society’s Heirloom Tomato Festival returns
Get ready to celebrate thevibrant flavours of summer.
The Earthwise Heirloom Tomato Festival is back this Saturday, Sept 6,from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and promises a day full ofcolour, taste, and inspiration straight from the garden.
Thisfamily-friendly festivalhonours B.C.’ rich agriculturalheritage, with a spotlight ontheincrediblediversity ofheirloom tomatoes.
Fromdeep purple to golden yellow,oblong to heart-shaped, Earthwise will be showcasinga wide array ofthese uniqueand flavourful tomatoes
Visitors can sample, explore, and learn about thehistory and culinar y valueofthe beautiful fruits, each with a stor y rooted intraditionand seed-saving culture.
This year, Earthwise will be offeringa free garden-to-table workshopanddemonstrationfocused on pairing heirloom tomatoes with freshherbs. Learnhow to bring out the best in your tomatoes using flavour-enhancing herb combinations, perfect for late-summer salads, bruschetta, andmore. The first few guests to
attendthedemo will receivea bouquetof freshly harvested herbs to take home!
Also returning to the festivalis Coastal Olive Oils, offering tastingsthat showcase how premium olive oilsandvinegars can elevate the natural richness offresh tomatoes.
Don’tforget to stop by the Farm Cart, stocked withfresh, Earthwise-
CUSTOMBLINDS &SHADES
grown produce, andtake a walkthroughthe beautifulEarthwise Garden to see what’s inbloom.
The Earthwise Tomato Festivalis a celebration oflocal harvests, fresh flavours, andcommunity connection-the perfect way to enjoy thefinal days of summer!
For more information, visitwww.earthwisesociety.bc.ca.
-Submitted
&Faux
Community TransLinkmakes service changes to South Delta
SANDOR GYARMATI
sg yarm ati@delta-optimis t. co m
TransLink has announced itsnew fall schedulewhich alters bus service across the regionincludingDelta
TransLink says itisincreasing serviceon53 routesacross the region to address overcrowding, improve conveniencefor customers andextend thehours of serviceon some routes However, serviceon some routes will be rolled back ordiscontinued.
Among the changes which started thismonth, the601 South Delta / Boundar y Bay/ Bridgeport bus will see shortening waittimes by up to 10 minutesin South Deltaduring the day on weekdays
The 640Ladner Exchange / Scott Road Station bus service will be adjusted on weekday afternoons, including increasing the waittime at Ladner
SANDOR GYARMATIPHOTO
Seasonalservicechangesareimplemented everyJanuar y, April,June and September.
Exchange by a fewminutes.
The 620 bus is a route connecting Bridgeport Stationin Richmond to the Tsawwassen Ferr y Terminalvia Ladner Exchange will see increased waittimes. Fora detailed scheduleofthe routes, check www.translink.ca.
Deltassist2025 AGM
Pleasejoinuson WednesdaySeptember24that7pm forour AGM! Thismeetingisanin-personeventandwillbe achance to take a closerlookathowDeltassistcontinuestosupportallofDelta. Deltassisthasbeen responding to Delta’s needssince 1972, throughprovisionsofprofessionaland volunteerservices. We welcomeregistrants to inviteafriendor familymember foran eveningofmeaningfuldialogue to hearaboutalltheways Deltassisthasbeencaring forourcommunity.Thereisnocost to attendbut we askthat youregisterinadvance.
Please registerinadvance by emailinginquiry@deltassist.com with yourname(first &last)andhowmanyguests you’llbe bringing.Please register by SundaySeptember 19,2025
EventDate: WednesdaySeptember24th
EventTime:7pm((Doorsopenat6:30pm)
EventLocation:9097120thStreet,Delta,BC
Lightsnacksandrefreshmentswillbeserved. Forenvironmental reasons,please feelfree to bring your ownwaterbottle.
Need retirement income?Try MICs
Jeffrey Greenfeld,CFP®,RIS,EPC
Senior Wealth Advisor,iAPrivate WealthInc.
*InsuranceAdvisor,iAPrivate WealthInsuranceAgency
Stockmarketorrealestate?Althoughboth types of investments canprovide capital appreciationand income,both options have quitedifferentfeatures Stocks generally outperformrealestate,although theytendtobemorevolatile.Eitherway,aninvestor needstoconsiderthe risksand rewardsofeach.
Exempt MarketProducts(EMPs)allowindividual investorstoinvestinboth.MortgageInvestment Corporations(MICs)areapopularEMP.MICsuse pooledmoneyfromindividualinvestors andthen providemortgageloans secured by realestate.As per CRA’sIncome TaxAct,100%of aMIC’s annual netincome mustbedistributedtoitsshareholders creatingagreat advantageforitsshareholders.
Kimand Philipareretiringthis December withno pensionsandneedcapital preservation. Isuggested theyshouldconsiderMICsintheirRIF accountsas theyprovide agreat rateof return. Kimand Philip also gainaccesstothegrowingCanadianrealestate market withoutactually purchasingrealestatedirectly.
Whynow?
Thecurrent housingshortageis keepingrealestate priceselevated;thusincreasingthe securityoffered by theMIC.Furthermore, mortgagerates have increasedsubstantially overthe past 2years,soMICs arepayingrelativelyhighinterest rates.
Whatdoesthis meanforMICinvestors?
Now is anexcellenttimetodiversifyinto aMIC.The banklendersarehavingahardertimequalifying borrowers at higherinterest rates,somoreborrowers areelectingtouse aMIC.Pricesarepredictedto remainconstantorelevated,helpingtoprotectthe principle oftheinvestment.
ThisinformationhasbeenpreparedbyJeffreyGreenfeld,whois aSeniorWealthAdvisor foriAPrivate WealthInc. Opinions expressedinthisarticlearethoseofJeffreyGreenfeld only and do notnecessarilyreflectthoseofiAPrivate WealthInc. iAPrivateWealthInc is amemberoftheCanadianInvestorProtectionFund andtheCanadianInvestment Regulatory Organization.*Insurance productsand servicesareofferedthroughIAPrivate WealthInsuranceAgency.Onlyproductsand servicesofferedthroughiAPrivateWealth Inc. arecoveredbytheCanadianInvestorProtectionFund. ExemptMarketproductsare notsuitableforalltypesofInvestments. Pleaseobtainindependent professional advice, in thecontextofyourparticularcircumstance. Kimand Philiparefictional.
Community Children’s Garden celebrationthis Saturday
A Community Gathering to celebrate the Children’s Garden at thecornerof Whitcomb and Enderby in Beach Grove willtake place this Saturday, Sept 6.
Thisis a family-oriented free walk-in event.
The garden was created withtheintention ofconnecting children to nature andcreatinga hub to bringthecommunity togetherin a naturebased way. For the past three years it has done exactly that Earlierinthe season the canoe garden offered an abundanceof Alpineand Ever-Bearing Strawberriesfor children to enjoy. Native pollinator plantsarea staplein the canoe garden. Scarlett Runner Beansand Pumpkins willcontinue to flourishanddelight into the fall.
Whetheritis raining, orthe sun isshining the day iscentred around a chalk mandala created
by a Beach Grove mother and daughter drawn at theheart of Whitcomb and Enderby. Stations are assembled,offering music therapy,Freezies, nature-based activities, face painting, rock painting, stories, and puppets for children to enjoy! This yearthe Secret Society of Books, a travelling bookshop that offers anexpe-
riencewhere children will want to linger, explore, and,mostof all, read will be in attendance. Learn more at : www.secretsocietyofbooks.com.
Lyndsay Smith,a Beach Grove mother, teacherlibrarianandfounderof Simple + Sweet NatureBased Learning in Delta hoststhe event outside her residence every year
The community gathering isfunded through Neighbourhood Small Grants, Beach Grove PAC, and Simple + Sweet Nature-Based Learning in Delta
This yearSmith will be promoting hernew endeavour– offering nature-based learning experiencesonProfessional Development Days inthe fallfor childrenin Delta agesfive to 12. Children willexperience handson outdoor learning in theheartof Boundary Bay and Beach Grove by using their senses to learn about seasonal plants and animalsintheforest and at the beach. Children share theirlearning through nature-based art. Themes vary per session. Email naturebasedlearningindelta@ gmail.comorfollow on Instagram @naturebasedlearningindelta to learnmore. -Submitted
Community Day atthe Farm returns to Westham Island
The popular September Day at the Farm returns this Saturday, Sept 6.
Presented by the Delta Farmland and Wildlife Trust, Day at the Farm runs from10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Westham Island Herb Farm, (4690 Kirkland Road).
Since 2007 residents fromacross the Lower Mainland have travelled to Westham Island to see what a day inthelife of a local farmerisall about.
Day at the Farm is a family-friendly event that invitescommunity members fromaround the region to learn and experience first-hand the
challenges and rewards ofgrowing quality food here intheFraser River Delta Byattending Day at the Farm, visitors can learnmore about how farmland supports an abundance oflocal wildlife and helps to make the Fraser RiverDelta such a special place. There will be hay wagon rides, farm animals, live music, a potato dig, square dancing, informational displays from groupslike BC Fresh, BC Aginthe Classroom and Poultr y in Motionas wellas numerous food trucks offering tasty treatsand snacks throughoutthe day.
There will not be an ATM on site, so please bring cashwhere appropriate
Westham Island is accessed by a one-way bridge, anticipate delays in getting to the event due to trafficaccessing theisland.
Parking isfree and will be in a farm field.
Dogsare not permitted onthe event site.
There will be a water bottle refill station available to reduce waste. Please bring your refillable water bottles
Tsawwassen United Church 693– 53rdStreet,Tsawwassen
My people will live in peacefuldwelling places, in secure homes,in undisturbed places of rest.— Isaiah 32:18
Did you know that Sept.1 to Oct. 44 marks the SeasonofCreation, a timewhen Christians worldwidefocus on caring forthe earth?
It’s a season rooted in prayerandaction,and this year’s theme, “Peace withCreation,” isespecially timelyforusin Delta
Living by the ocean and surrounded by fertile farmland, we know firsthandhow connected our livesare to the environment. Rising sea levels, wildfires, andunpredictable weather remindus that climate change isn’t
Minister’s Minute
a distant problem
Isaiah’s visionof peopleliving in peace includesnot just harmony among neighbors, but also withthe land that sustainsus. Peace,
as St Augustine said,is “thetranquility oforder.” Whencreationis cared for, communitiesflourish. When we neglectit, everything suffers.
This seasoninvitesus to reflect : How can we live differently to protect this beautifulplace we callhome? Whetherit’s reducing waste, supporting local farmers, orprotecting wetlands, ever y smallact matters.
Creator God, thank You for the ocean, the farmlands, the eagles, and the gentle rains that bless our home Forgive uswhen we take these gifts for granted. Help us walk gently onthis land, seeking peace with Your creation. Amen.
The McKee House Seniors Society willonce again be hosting Nova Scotia’s favourite Bluegrass Band,the Spinney Brothers.
On Saturday night, Sept. 13, the McKee Seniors Recreation Centre will be alive withthe genuinebluegrass acoustic music of Canada’s favourite Bluegrass and Countr y Music Bandwhere they last performed to a sold-outcrowd.
FromtheAnnapolis Valley of Nova Scotia, brothers Allan Spinney,on guitarand vocals and Rick Spinney on banjo and vocals, debuted their band in 1991.
Known as Canada’s International Bluegrass Band, they featurea tight brother duet vocal style that was immediately recognized for its energeticanddistinctive sound.
Theywent on to release 12 albums, including four very successful releaseson Mountain Fever Records.
These Mountain Fever recordingsplayed a large roleinthe world-wide recognitionthat wouldfollow.
The brothers have charted four numberonehits, countless awards at theEastern Canadian Bluegrass Music Awards, as wellasnominations forthree IBMA Awards, including Emerging Artist and Song of the Year
Live performancesincluded such prestigious stagesas Bill Monroe’s Bean Blossom Festival, Ralph Stanley’s Hills of Home Festival, Nashville’s Station Inn,and MerleFest, to name a few.
The Spinney Brothers always strive to put onanenergetic andheart felt performance. Drawing oncountless hit songs, fan interactionand a generalconnectionthrough the music.
The South Delta Ar tists Guildis celebrating its 50th anniversar ywitha Juried Art Exhibition. Pictured is Marlene Strain’s paintingSunset at Pebbles Beach.
Eventto
ContactIan at ijacques@delta-optimist.com or 604-998-3616
Be prepared to be entertained by the Spinney Brothers featuring Allan Spinney on guitar, Rick Spinney on banjo, Gary Dalrympleon mandolin and Terr y Mumford onupright bass, forming the string instrument combinationthathas beenthe classic bluegrass format sincethe soundfirst
cr ystallized some70-plus years ago.
Tickets are $35formembers, $42fornon-members available at the seniors’ centre inLadner or by calling 604-946-1411 The show starts at 8 p.m. on Sept. 13.
McKee Seniors Recreation Centre islocated at 515547th Ave.
-Submitted
Arts Guild celebrates its 50thanniversary
LAURELJOHNSON
Contributing Wr iter
Art lovers andcollectors, mark your calendars.
This will be oneof the region’s most anticipated cultural events : the Golden Celebration Juried Art Exhibition, showcasing exceptional works by emerging and established artistsfrom across Canada presented by the South DeltaArtists Guild.
The opening receptionis Sept.4 at 6:30
p.m. atGaller y 1710in Tsawwassen.
The exhibition will be ondisplay until Sept 28.
Thisprofessionally curated exhibitionoffers a rare opportunity to view and purchase —a carefully selected collectionoforiginal artworks. Each piece has been handpicked by a panelofesteemed jurors, including curators, gallerists, andprofessional artists, ensuring only the highest caliberof work is ondisplay.
This year ’s show spans
a diverse array of twodimensionalart. Whether you’re seeking thenext standoutaddition to your private collectionor simply hoping to discover newtalent, theexhibition promises a rich, engaging experiencefor seasoned andnovice buyers alike.
Why attend?
Exclusive access to juried artworks : Only the best submissions make it into the show.
Meettheartists : Opening night provides anopportunity engage withthecreators
the work.
Support thearts : Purchasing locally not only enriches yourcollection but supportsthe creative community. Admissionisfree and open to the public. Don’tmiss thisopportunity to invest inthe future ofart andconnect withthevibrant creative pulse of our community. For more information,visit SouthDeltaArtistsGuild. comorfollow us on Instagram at Gallery1710_sdag.
Celebrate Delta’srichagriculturalheritageat Dayatthe Farm, hosted by theDelta Farmland&Wildlife Trust.
We areproud to sponsorthisfreefamilyevent, whichoffers auniqueopportunitytolearnaboutlocalfarmingandtake partinhands-onexperiences.It’salso achance to celebrate thepeopleandpracticesthatkeepfarmingavitalpartofour localeconomyand communityidentity.
Visit deltafarmland.ca foreventdetails.
Lifestyles DeltaPhoto Club welcomes acclaimed sports photographerJeff Vogan
The Delta Photo Club isdelighted to invite members and guests to a special Zoompresentation with Toronto-based sportsphotographer Jeff Vogan,who will be speaking on “From Hobbyist to Full-Time Sports Photographer.”
The workshoptakes placeon Wednesday, Sept. 10 at 7:30 p.m. Vogan’s stor y willfeel familiar to many ofus His passionfor sports photography began when his son firststepped onto theplaying field. Like many parents andgrandparents with camerasin hand at local community gamesor school events, he started by capturing momentsof someone dear to him
What began as a way to preser ve familymemories soongrewinto something much bigger—so much so that in2016,he leftthecorporate world to followhis heart and become a full-time sports photographer.
Today,heis a Getty Imagescontributor, Camera BitsAmbassador, andphotography instructor who has photographed ever yonefrom amateur athletes to world championsand Olympic medalists In this presentation, Vogan willshare insights on:
Tipsfor bothhobbyist andaspiring professional sportsphotographers
The challengesand opportunitiesof turning a hobby into a career ; the
business sideof sports photography andlessons learned photographing amateurandprofessional athletes.
To attendthe workshop, become a member ofthe Delta Photo Club by filling out themembershipform at : http:// deltaphotoclub.com/ member-sign-up-form.
You can also attend as a guest by sending an e-transferof$10 to: treasurer_membership@ deltaphotoclub.com by noon, Wednesday, Sept 10. Please include your nameandemailaddress withthetransfer
For more information about the clubandfuture events, visitdeltaphotoclub.com -Submitted
READERS’ CHOICE 2025
Thank you for supporting the 2025 Delta Optimist Readers’Choice Awards!
Whether you’rea readerwhotookthetime to voteor a business ownerhonoured by being named‘bestinclass’, we are grateful for yourpart inSouthDelta’s Readers’Choice Awards.
We had a hugenumberof votes rollinwhich reminds uswhy theseannual awardsare soimportant: we allwanttocelebrateandshowcase what makesthiscommunityshine.
We keptthescorecard fair by ensuringeachballotincluded votesacross a minimumnumberofcategoriesandone voteperIPaddressiscounted. Votes are carefullytabulatedtodetermineourwinnersand finalists.
Frompetgroomingtocoffeeshopstotire services,theseawards cover the gamut.Andthey are a reminder totryanold favourite, checkout a business you’ve notheardof,anddowhat you cantosupport yourlocalbusinesses that keepthiscommunitythriving.
Onbehalfofourstaff and management,wewouldliketo thankDeltaforonceagainvoting usNumber1. We areatrustedfamilybusiness servingDeltaforover50yearsand lookforwardtomanymore years tocome.
THANKYOU
As aseniormove managementcompany, we areextremelypickyabout the sub-trades we hiretosupportourseniors.Theymustbeable to livesup to ourhigh standards.TNT Dynomite Movers exceededour expectations! I’m happytosay howpleased wewere withthe team that movedourclients onFriday. Wow! They were fast,efficient, carefuland wonderfullyfriendly! Their attention todetailwasfantastic! ~Next ChapterSenior Services
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TheDelta Bantam Blue Jays Bantam made Canadian baseballhistory, capturing their fourthconsecutive Ray Carter Cup at the Baseball Canada National Championshipsin Summerside, Prince Edward Island, Aug. 21 to 24.
The road to thetitle wasn’t withoutits challenges.
After a seasoninwhich the Blue Jays posted anincredible62-7 record, set the PBL Bantam win percentage record, and won thelocal Kyle Losse Memorial Tournament, the team arrived in Summerside withconfidence
But theopening game brought an early shock :a 4-0 loss to Ontarioinwhich the Jays were heldhitless in a rare perfect game.
Instead offolding, the team used the setback asmotivation
Fromthat point for ward, Delta stormed throughthe competition withfive straight wins, each one carr ying more weight thanthe last
They rebounded quickly with a 9-1victory over Saskatchewan, led by strong pitching from Cole Hudieand Adam Marshall,then followed up with a 10-2 win over Quebec behindAlex Tamayo’s six RBIs and a complete game by Jace Rutten.
The pivotalmoment came
against Alberta inwhat was essentiallya must-win game
With everything ontheline, the Jays delivereda dramatic 2-1extra-inning walk-off victory. Caleb Millerand London Funkcombined for18 strikeouts to keep Delta’s hopesalive.
From there, the batsexploded in a 20-14 semifinal win over Manitoba, powered by Jake Carriere’s two home runs andthree hits.
That set the stage for a championshipshowdown and redemption against Ontario.
Thistime,Deltadominated from start to finish, cruising to an8-1 win.
Tamayo homered, and catcher Nico Yau turned in oneofthe tournament’s most impressive performances, catching 13inningsinone day
without a single passed ballor stolen base allowed.
Eveninjured player-turnedassistant coach KaneLaporte lefthis mark with a rallying cr y before thefinal.
“I toldthe boys before the game, ‘Three’s weak, four ’s a streak!’ They responded with eight runsinthefirst three innings,” saidLaporte.
The stat sheet toldthe stor y of a team effort: Tamayo hit .444 withnineRBIs, Krause batted .500 withnineRBIs, and Carriere added not just power but poise, closing out thefinal onthemoundafterhisheroics inthe semifinal.
On the pitching side, Miller struck out 18 batters in just 7.2innings, while Hudiecontributed nine strikeouts over six innings.Defensively, Sully Todhunter anchored second base withoutanerror, while outfielders JaxxonLawrence and Hudson Wortley made key plays whenit mattered most.
Headcoach Mike Hughes praised the group’s resilience.
“Afterthat first loss, they were unfazed. They just kept showing upandcompeting. Winning fourin a row isalmost unheard of.”
General manager Jack Thompson called theaccomplishment “an unbelievable achievement,” adding: “Getting to nationalsis hard winning oneisamazing. Winning four straight speaksto the commitment ofthese players and families.”
- Submitted
South Delta Ramsflag footballplayers offtonationals
IAN JACQUE S
ijacque s@ delta-optimis t. co m
A pairof Deltaflag footballplayers are offthe to NFL Flag Canadian National Championships, in Toronto.
The tournament, set forOct. 3 to 5, willfeature someofthe best 12 andunderplayers inthecountr y withthe winners heading to the2026 InternationalNFL Flag Championships at the Pro Bowl Games
Jessie Schrag and Lucienne Reid are part ofthe team joiningwith other players from Cloverdale, Langley,and Maple Ridge.
Both Deltaplayers wererecommended by coach Mike Gillanfromtheir South Delta Rams spring, flag football teamswhere Jessieplayed inthe U14 divisionand Lucienneplayed inthe U12division.
“I’mexcited,I feellikeit couldlead mefurtherinto my football careerand that itcouldleadme to success,” said Jessie.
Knowing that withflag football
becoming an Olympic sport there really is potential to continue to play at a higherlevel.
Jessiealso competed for Delta Gymnasticsinthe Excel Silverprogram, plays Division 2 soccer for South Delta United, as wellasallthe school sports that comeher way.
In track and fieldthis yearsheplaced first inallher eventsin boththe regionalanddistricttrack meets this season.
“Thisis a great opportunity thathas taught me so much and I’ve hada lotof fun withthis team,” added Lucienne. “I hope we can win and evenif we don’t,I will remember thisamazing experience forever.”
Luciennealso plays Division 1 soccer for South Delta United and competes in track andfield forher school.
Before theplayers head to Toronto, a Gofundme page has beencreated to help withexpenses Anyone wishing to donate can do so at thislink : https:// www.gofundme.com/f/send-our-teamto-toronto-to-represent-bc-in-flagnationals
Spacious 2bedroom, 2bathroom condo at ONYX COURT! This west-facing1,342sq.ft.homeisoneofthenewerbuildingsintheareaand featuresgranitecounters,stainlesssteelappliances, laminate flooring, agasfireplacewithstonesurround,and alargeprimarysuitewith walk-inclosetandensuite. Thethoughtfullayoutseparatesthebedroomsonoppositesides of theopen-concept great room, offeringprivacyandfunctionality, whileacovereddeckprovides year-roundenjoyment. Ideallylocatedwithin walkingdistanceto Tsawwassen Town Centre,transit, Winskill Park,South Delta Recreation Centre,and CentennialBeach. Includes 2parkingstalls, astorage locker,bonusin-suitestorage,andispet-friendly(1dogor 2cats) 207,117555thStreet, Tsawwassen -$788,000
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