This has been a challenging year for all of us. We’ve all missed family members and reduced our activities as we’ve tried to stay safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Luckily, thanks to the hard work of all British Columbians to get vaccinated and keep case numbers low, B.C. is slowly starting to reopen — with a further easing of restrictions announced this week. This is a celebratory time for all of us after this incredibly difficult year.
Businesses have suffered tremendously during the pandemic. I know they’re grateful to everyone who supported them as they pivoted their operations or were forced to limit them during periods of restriction. As they begin to open back up, I hope you will continue to support these great local establishments.
Everyone knows Delta is home to several fantastic craft breweries. Whether you want to make your way to Barnside Brewing Company to savour a farm fresh beer, stop by Four Winds Brewing Company’s tasting room to enjoy their award-winning IPA or Pilsner, or sample Britannia Brewing Company’s selection of delicious food and drinks at their new location in the heart of Ladner Village, there are plenty of opportunities to stay local and resume social interactions with one another.
Of course, there are so many wonderful farms to support too — and as a farmer myself, I’m very proud of the hard work our farmers put in so we can all consume fresh, locally-grown products.
Take Emma Lea Farms, for example. In addition to being famous for their incredible berries, The Stand offers other items including produce, natural beef, honey, housewares, clothing, and flowers. One can never leave without visiting their Ice Cream Shoppe and enjoying the sunshine at one of their picnic tables.
While visiting Westham Island, be sure to spend some time at Cropthorne Farm and the Westham Island Herb Farm. Their offerings of a wide range of high-quality organic goods, herbs, fresh fruit and veggies, and seedlings give the phrase ‘farm to table’ new meaning.
Let’s also take every opportunity we can to explore the great outdoors. Whether your favourite spot is Centennial Beach, Boundary Bay, Deas Island Park or Brunswick Point, I urge you to continue visiting these natural treasures close to home.
I look forward to seeing more of you in person in the coming months as current restrictions are lifted, and we slowly return to life as usual.
