Suffice to say we live in a great time and place in Delta. In terms of climate, our moderate coastal winds and warm ocean currents are the envy of all Canadians. Delta is strategically located as a gateway to Georgia Strait and beyond, as well as the West Coast islands and our American neighbours to the south.
Delta enjoyed its comfortable anonymity until the opening of the George Massey Tunnel in 1959. In ensuing years we underwent massive growth. Then there was a conscious effort to slow the pace of development and the accumulation of debt incurred as a result of the need for services and facilities for the three separate communities.
To the chagrin of some, provincial and federal planning was well underway to turn Delta into a major West Coast port for coal and bulk container shipping. It's worth restating in 1968 and 1969 the provincial government expropriated some 4,000 acres of farmland between Ladner and Tsawwassen as back-up lands for port expansion.
We are now experiencing the effect of this planning some 45 years later on our skyline and cluttered highways. We are now facing rapid change, beyond local control, from other levels of government. The significant issues affecting all of us are port expansion and the need for back-up industrial land. Inexplicably, the B.C. Liberals in recent times returned the expropriated lands to the original owners. Other factors include the historic treaty signed by the federal and provincial governments with Tsawwassen First Nation. Then there's the scheduled opening of the South Fraser Perimeter Road this December, to be renamed Highway 17, and its impact on local traffic patterns as well as port and ferry traffic. So the pattern of change continues and hopefully we adapt and move on.
Amongst all these trials and tribulations it was a pleasure to cross the iconic Westham Island Bridge to attend our family's annual reunion hosted at Emma Lea
Farms. Crossing the wooden bridge is like returning to a century-old lifestyle, notwithstanding the modern farm operations.
My family roots reach back to Delta's incorporation in 1879. From the union of two people, we have literally hundreds of third to sixth generations of relatives able to attend this eagerly awaited event. The farm is the perfect venue for young and old to enjoy hayrides, frog jumping contests, horseshoes and the fellowship of a barbecue and old-fashioned potluck dinner with cousins, aunts and uncles.
In gazing around the 100 or so present, it struck me how the family history reflects our early heritage and our present lifestyle. We emerged from families of farmers and fishermen onto those with post-secondary education, skilled trades and community minded folks, many still residing locally. We've been fortunate to be products of good family values and a positive living and social structure.
It was good to pause a moment and appreciate the benefits of our unique lifestyle here in Delta.
Have you ever experienced a sunset on Westham Island? Priceless! And a good night to you, Lois.
