RANJAN SHARMAAMEX Owner/Broker FRASERIDGE REALTY Requests that for unsurpassed service and proven results phone my realtors. You will be glad you did! www.fijitimescanada.com Phone: 604.909.4088 Ph: 604-322-3272 YOUR COMPLIMENTARY WEEKLY NEWSPAPER SINCE 2006 June 1, 2012 #200-6325 Fraser St., Vancouver, BC www.amexrealty.ca Qantas Withdraws Directors From Fiji Airline, Air Pacific QANTAS has withdrawn its directors from the board of Air Pacific, saying it was clear that Fiji's military regime wanted to take complete control of the carrier. Relations between Qantas and the Fiji government have deteriorated further after the Australian airline withdrew its four representatives on the board of the national flag carrier Air Pacific. Qantas said the decision to remove the directors was in response to the militarycontrolled government, which has a 51 per cent stake in Air Pacific, making clear its intention to take ''absolute control''. Qantas has had a 46 per cent stake in the Fijian airline since 1998. Several months ago the Fiji government enacted a decree that required at least two-thirds of Air Pacific's board to be Fijian, and that the airline be ''under actual and effectivethe years, Fijian Mom, over control of citizens''. I've watched Qantas said that the Fiji government had the wonderful ways ''made clear itsmade life special you've intentions to unilaterally take absolute our family... Pacific'' for control of Air under the decree. ''In the circumstances the moments of love Qantas believes laughter, and it is appropriate to remove its four traditions the airline the directors,'' said in a statement. and memories The Qantas-nominated us directors we'll carry with include throughout ourthe new chief Simon Hickey, lives. executive But most of all of Qantas' international operations, watched the way Charles I've Brett Johnson, Harvey, the general counsel, and you've shown us Narendra true meaning of love the Kumar, the boss of QantasLink. The airline had flagged in everything you do. in March that it was set to reduce its influence on AirMother'sboard. Happy Pacific's Day Qantas said it would also ''continue to consider options'' for the sale of its cornerstone stake in Air Pacific, which is about to be renamed Fiji Airways. Voreqe Bainimarama The Australian airline has sought for years to sell its stake in Air Pacific, but the only logical buyer has been the Fijian government. Qantas' stake is valued at $15 million on its books. The sticking point has been price: Qantas has sought about $F70 million ($A38 million) for its stake but the Fiji government has considered it too high a price. Air Pacific has been under capitalised over the years due to a lack of money from the government, which makes Qantas' investment vital to the airline's future. Since suffering its biggest annual Celebrating 60 years in business loss two years ago, Air Pacific has undergone a restructure, led by its chief executive, Dave Pflieger. It posted an operating loss of $F3.6 million in 2010-11, compared with a $F91.8 million loss in 2009-10. Shares in Qantas closed up 2¢ at $1.52 on Tuesday. M. Khan & Company We are an experienced and fully qualified team of Immigration experts. Immigration consultant you can trust Trusted in the community for almost 20 years Immigration Counsellors Ltd. “Immigration made easy” Suite 213-8334 128th St., Surrey, BC limited time seat sale to fiji from *Taxes and surcharges extra $1080 Ask for the Best Fares to Australia, NZ & Fiji Also enquire about Cruises & Packages “Fares Go Up on May 1st. Book TODAY to Save” Ph: 604-591-5824 www.mkco.ca Mumtaz Khan SURREY 604.584.1411 VANCOUVER 604.324.2277 #303-8128 128th St. 6550 Fraser St. NEW SURREY LOCATION (Payal Business Center) ABBOTSFORD 604.854.6088 #2-2488 Clearbrook Rd. BC Reg #3376-2 2 Friday June 1, 2012 www.fijitimescanada.com thiNkiNg of seNdiNg bags or boxes to fiji!! - We are here just to do that for you - No Weight restrictioN 1kg - 1000kg + - We provide service With coNfideNce - No gimmicks - oN time shippiNg Eid shipment is ready for departute Soon don’t delay BC Cutoff: June 12th alta Cutoff: June 6th Eta July 12th We pick up: 10% discount You deliver to our office: 20% discount Don’t miss this opportunity. Limited time offer. Special offer Calgary (403) 250 6851 (ami) Edmonton (780) 292 0701 (Prakash) Office: 15695 80A Ave., Surrey Bc Phone: Kamlesh Ram (604) 724 5941 www.fijifreight.ca
[email protected] www.fijitimescanada.com Times Fiji News Friday June 1, 2012 3 BSP Life Announces Insurance Cover For Peacekeeping Personnel Fiji Launches Dive Fest For Chinese Guests To accommodate the growing interest in diving from the Chinese mainland, the Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association launched the China Dive Fiji Festival, which will run parallel to the Dive Fiji Expo. This year was the inaugural year for the China Dive Fiji Festival and was held at the Shangri-La’s Fijian Resort and Spa. It is designed to be a complementary event during the dive fiesta and is aimed specifically at the China scuba market. “Those coming in from China and India, through the Hong Kong route, will be able to participate more fully in the expo and still have enough time to go out and experience the dives themselves without the time limitations because of flight days, which used to be the case in previous years,” said Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association (FHTA) chief executive officer Michael Wong. The FHTA dive committee says the event specifically looks to: - Start another international dive event in Fiji; - Open an emerging market that is being pushed by the Fijian Government; and - Assist Fiji develop its Hong Kong route. This year’s event agents were guided by Rosie Holidays, who have Chinesespeaking divers as tour guides. The agents are in various dive spots around the country. BSP Life announced that their life insurance policies will now cover Fiji’s disciplined forces including the Army, Police, Prisons and Navy who are engaged in internationally sanctioned peacekeeping missions. With this change BSP Life has amended the “warzone exclusion” which is a standard exclusion applied by most global insurance companies given the high level of risk involved. Personnel of the disciplined forces who hold existing policies with BSP Life shall receive immediate cover and will have their policies amended accordingly. This includes those who are currently serving overseas on internationally sanctioned peace keeping missions. With this enhancement, BSP Life will now pay out the sum insured on base products together with any Term Life or Accidental Death Benefit. They will also recognize total and permanent disability incurred from serving peacekeeping duties. In announcing the amendment to the War Zone Exclusion, the managing director of BSP Life, Malakai Naiyaga said: “This is a milestone achievement for BSP Life as this exclusion has been in place for many years. This enhancement was achieved through consultation with our disciplined forces and demonstrates BSP Life’s commitment to developing products and services that meet our customer’s needs. The inclusion of insurance cover for accidents and disabilities is a unique feature making our cover the most comprehensive in Fiji. BSP Life is one of the few Life Insurance companies globally to provide this benefit.” “Our armed forces commit their lives serving our country and deserve personal security for themselves and their loved ones. “We trust they will now have peace of mind knowing their BSP Life policies will pay out their full cover should anything unexpected happen whilst on peace keeping missions.” To add value to their existing cover, BSP Life policyholders in the disciplined forces can add the term life benefit, accidental death benefit and total and permanent disability benefit to existing policies. Personnel who do not have insurance policies are encouraged to contact their BSP Life agent or call the contact centre on 132700. Support 'Fijian Made' There is no doubt about it; the Fijian Made, Buying Fijian campaign has, since its launch, shed light on an important issue; supporting local manufacturers. Comfort Home Furnishing (CHF) managing director Himen Chandra, said it was about time people in Fiji realised the importance of products that were Fijian made and their effect on our economy. “The Government’s initiative to promote Fijian Made has been applauded by the private sector and the consumers and by promoting locally-manufactured products people are helping to grow the economy,” Mr Chandra said. Mr Chandra said the company was a proud manufacturer of local products branded Fijian Made and they supported locals and the economy. Comfort Home Furnishing manufactures mahogany furniture, foam and innerspring mattresses, lounge suites and manchester goods. “We sell these locally-manufactured products in the Fijian market through our own stores and also wholesale to various hotels. Our products are also recognised in the Pacific region and overseas,” he said. Countries that the company exports to are Australian, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Tonga, Vanuatu, American Samoa, Solomon Islands and a few smaller island markets. Mr Chandra said if people spent their money in this regard; Buy Fijian, it would help pay local wages, assist with the local costs of doing business like paying for electricity, water and transportation. “Not to mention when workers get paid they spend money locally and buy their groceries, clothes, household items and this was one way to ensure that the money remains in the country. “This would also help import substitution, which means that when you buy locally-made, grown or packed it reduces importation which is good for the country,” he said. Tourism Fiji is delighted to announce the appointment of Sparks Interactive, a New Zealand-based company as its new website partner. The appointment follows on from an extensive review, which originally involved 60 companies from Fiji, Australia, New Zealand and N America expressing an interest in the tender. Following credentials presentations from a short-list of 12 companies, four successful companies, including the incumbent Fijian company, responded to a full RFP brief. The competition was very strong and Sparks Interactive’s submission best met the requirements of design thinking, technology solutions and value for money. Sparks Interactive will be required to develop a new Tourism Fiji website which will consolidate the existing individual country websites into one Tourism Fiji Announces New Web Partnership global portal and allow the user more options as they search for information and plan their holiday. The appointment of Sparks Interactive follows the recent selection of Colenso BBDO which is developing a new global brand campaign. Colenso BBDO, also based in Auckland, will work closely with Sparks Interactive in bringing to life the new website. This appointment follows on from an extensive destination marketing audit completed for Tourism Fiji in late 2011. It highlighted the opportunities of a global approach to brand communications and one central website, as it works hard to ensure maximum return on its key investments. Tourism Fiji is also currently in the process of reviewing PR and social media partners in Australia, New Zealand, North America and greater China . Read the Fiji Times Canada online www.fijitimescanada.com 4 Friday June 1, 2012 www.fijitimescanada.com www.fijitimescanada.com Times Fiji News Friday June 1, 2012 5 Care Giver Admits Stealing $76K From 99-Year-Old Ranita Devi A care worker has been convicted of ripping off a 99-year-old woman for tens of thousands of dollars. Fiji-born Ranita Devi, 32, of Papatoetoe, pleaded guilty to 16 counts of obtaining money using a bank card belonging to Emilia Antunovich. Devi first appeared in Auckland District Court last month. At least $76,650 was taken from Antunovich, according to court papers. This month, Devi told the reporter she was sorry - and would pay the money back. "I had so many problems. I was really depressed," she said. Devi said her husband had not worked for three years and she was the only breadwinner. She was charged for offences over three months, starting last December. Over a four-day period in late February alone, $16,000 was taken from Antunovich's account. She said she was employed at a privately-run Ellerslie retirement home when she met Antunovich. Since being charged, she had written a letter to the family and would pay the 99-year-old back, she said. The aged-care facility said Devi was no longer employed there. Devi said she'd never been in trouble with the law before. The Fijian, who is in New Zealand on a working visa, realized it was possible she could be deported. "I'm not sure about that. It's God's decision." Devi will be sentenced on June 21. Government To Establish 8 More Telecentres Following the launch of a national broadband policy and the opening of a telecentre last year, Government has confirmed that eight more telecentres will be opened by the end of this year. Public Enterprise and Communications permanent secretary Elizabeth Powell said since the launch of the policy, the regulated and transparent liberal market had facilitated competition and uptake of new technology at a faster rate. Through this policy, Government also introduced a 1 per cent telecommunication levy on all voice bills, including pre-pay cards in order to fund many of the growth and capacity building in the information, communications and technology (ICT) sector. “The full revenue from the levy is being used to build capacity to increase internet penetration, access at affordable prices,” Ms Powell said. The ICT levy has been collected by Government into a trust account that will solely be used to increase accessibility of ICT services to all Fijians. “The fund is being used to finance the government telecentre project will allow for communities to be able to use broadband internet services at designated community centres free of charge,” Ms Powell said. “Three such sites are already in existence and Government will be establishing eight more such centres in 2012.” Telecommunication stakeholders have been supportive in the establishment of policies such as the National Broadband Policy. There was an extensive consultation phase, as well as face to face meetings and a workshop with licensed operators and stakeholders prior to the finalization of the policy. “The same also applies to the National ICT policy, which is currently under formulation and has also undergone similar consultations. The policies and the resulting action plans are continually reviewed to ensure relevance to current needs of the industry,” the permanent secretary added. Government also provides 60 per cent investment allowance to Telecom Fiji Limited (TFL) to facilitate new line installations. Magistrates Take Their Oath Government House held a swearing in ceremony for four new magistrates. The ceremony was officiated by His Excellency the President, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau. Mohammed Saneem is a graduate in Law from University of the South Pacific and also holds a Professional Diploma in Legal Practice. He was the Deputy Registrar of the Legal High Court of Fiji from January this year. Charles Ratakele, a law degree graduate from USP and Vanuatu, was a State Counsel of the Office of Director of Public Prosecutions from September 2010 till February 2011. Ro Alipate Maitaitini was another new magistrate sworn in. He attained a law degree in 2006. He was a Barrister and Solicitor of the High Court of Fiji. Siromi Dokonivalu Turaga holds a Bachelor of Law and Arts degree with nine years experience in the legal profession having served in the Attorney-General Chambers. Siromi Turaga, Charles Ratakele, Ro Alipate Maitaitini & Mohammed Saneem 6 Friday June 1, 2012 Times Fiji News www.fijitimescanada.com Sugar Cane Farmers Get More Money Sugar cane farmers are now reaping the benefit of negotiating prices on an annual basis that has seen growers enjoy ever-increasing price for per tonne of cane. Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Mr Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, explained this to farmers from Nadi, Lautoka, Ba, Tavua and Rakiraki and that the previous system whereby prices were fixed for a certain number of years. “Previously the prices were set for a number of years and if the sugar prices went up globally, the growers did not benefit from it because they were working with a fixed price system,” he said while launching the Yaqara cane seed nursery. Ministry of Sugar permanent secretary, Manasa Vaniqi, said there was a contract with Tate and Lyle until 2015 where a fixed price was agreed on. “The price was fixed and there was to be no variation. However, Tate and Lyle signed a Memorandum of Understanding with us where they generously lifted the cap to pay us the world market price of sugar,” Mr Vaniqi said. Last year, farmers were paid $52 per tonne when compared to the $45.67 that was paid in 2010 and indications are the figure will improve to around $53.55 per tonne. The government entities such as the Ministry of Sugar and Fiji Sugar Corporation have acknowledged that there was a lot of work to be done in the industry but reviving the industry to its former glory was possible. Cane growers raised a number of issues with the group representing the Sugar Ministry, FSC and Mr SaiyadKhaiyum, who was filling in for Prime Minister and Minister for Sugar Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama. In taking comments and criticism in his stride Mr Sayed-Khaiyum, advised the farmers that what they really needed to focus on was to increase yield per hectare and quality of the cane. “When we increase sugar production due to these two factors, that’s when we will get prices and the benefits will trickle down to the farmers,” he said. On the issue of waning interest of the younger generation in sugar cane farming, the AG said current farmers needed to show them that sugar could yield better prices thus better returns to lure them back into the industry. He said the industry, which was responsible for the livelihood of 200,000 people, had been receiving a lot of assistance from Government including the $700,000 set aside in the 2012 national budget for the purchasing of machines. Meanwhile, Fiji will soon be submitting a paper to the Indian Government to write off part of the $86million loan from the EXIM Bank of India. Mr Vaniqi said initially they were looking at a moratorium for extension but the Indian Government had “indicated positively to consider” to write off part of the loan. Meanwhile, the Fiji delegation will attend the International Sugar Organisation (ISO) meeting in November in London to thrash out, among other things, the details of hosting the next ISO meeting in Fiji. Fiji is gaining a lot of technical and skills know-how from these meetings as the latest one in India saw the delegation being exposed to new areas to pursue and better ways of improving sugar and its by-products. Modernising the sugar sector to see Russian Foreign Affairs Minister, this vital industry flourish is one of the Sergey Lavrov aims of Government and the miller David LINGAM Publisher All materials used in this paper is the property of Sun-Times Media Group (2010) Ltd and cannot be copied or used in part or whole, without the written consent of Sun-Times Media Group (2010) Ltd. Sun-Times Media Group (2010) Ltd will not be responsible for any material supplied by the advertiser(s) for errors. In the case of any errors caused by the publisher, Sun - Times Media Group (2010) is limited to the advertising cost for the issue. It is entirely the choice of the consumer to do business with the advertisier and Sun_times Media Group (2010) Ltd is not responsible for any loss or damages caused by the advertiser to the consumer. The Fiji Times Canada Ltd www.fijitimescanada.com Email:
[email protected] Surrey BC Tel: 604-909-4088 Fax: 1-888-528-(FIJI) 3454 A workshop to develop a National Action Plan against Worst Forms of Child Labour and Child Trafficking in partnership with International Labour organisation will be conducted by the Ministry of Labour, Industrial Relations & Employment. The Minister for Labour, Industrial Relations & Employment Mr Jone Usamate said the workshop from would clarify the concepts of Worst Forms of Child Labour (WFCL) including Child Trafficking and effective strategies to address them. It will include presentations on effective child trafficking investigative procedures and techniques and review and discussion of polices on WFCL and child trafficking. He confirms that through a series Workshop On The Worst Forms Of Child Labour & Child Trafficking of workshop the ministry together with its stakeholders will develop a multidimensional plan to address the WFCL in Fiji. The workshop will be facilitated by Hans van de Glind, the representative of International Program on Elimination of Child Labour and a renowned specialist on child trafficking. He will be assisted by Ahmet Ozirmak, chief technical advisor (CTA, TACKLE project) and Marie-Jane Fatiaki national coordinator Fiji, TACKLE project. The workshop will bring together labour officers, Labour inspectors and practitioners from a wide range of relevant departments (including education, social welfare, immigration, and police), workers and employers organizations, and NGOs. The Tackling Child Labour through Education (TACKLE) project supported by the African Caribbean and Pacific Countries (ACP) Group of States has been providing technical assistance to Fiji since 2008, in its efforts to stop child labour. Their objective is to strengthen capacity of the national and local authorities in the formulation, implementation and enforcement of policies to fight child Labour. Mr Usamate affirms that under Pillar 8 and 9 of the Peoples Charter for Change Peace and Progress the Fijian Government is committed to eradicate child labour and ensure children are given their fundamental right to education. www.fijitimescanada.com Fijiana imporTS lTd. we carry Fresh & Frozen Vegetables & Meat Fresh Goat Meat, Chicken, N.Z. 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We reserve the right to correct such errors. 459 $ (ShorT cuT) 489 lb lb $ 5 49 ea Bora Bean Egg plant curry leaves junglee mircha Tamarind Khatai 8 SLG_STICBC_PRINT.pdf 1 09/05/11 12:08 PM Friday June 1, 2012 www.fijitimescanada.com ICBC Cases Barinder S. Sanghera B.Comm., LL.B. Amandeep S. Sanghera B.A., LL.B. Puneet P.K. Sandhar B.A. (Hons.), LL.B. C M Y “After CM MY my accident I had constant neck and back pains. I felt sad most of the time and became very anxious about the future. ICBC said I was overreacting and offered $17,000. My case settled for $400,000 at mediation.” MR. S. ___________________________________________________________________________________________ “ The damage to my car was only $700. ICBC said I could not have been injured: but I was. My lawyer finalized my claim for $28,000 plus expenses.” MISS M. ___________________________________________________________________________________________ CY CMY K “ICBC offered me $32,000 to finish my case. I was off work for 6 monthsand saw a specialist because of my jaw injury. I couldn’t mop the floor or clean our bathroom without help from my children. I received $200,000 through my lawyer’s efforts.” Mrs. S ___________________________________________________________________________________________ “The damage to my vehicle was about $1,700. ICBC said this was a Low Velocity Impact (LVI) and refused to pay me for my injuries and physio costs. My lawyer obtained more than $45,000 for me.” Mrs. B ___________________________________________________________________________________________ “ A car hit me as I walked across the street. ICBC blamed me because of the color of my clothing. My lawyer worked hard and obtained necessary evidence. My case settled for over $300,000.” MRS.C. *Past cases are not necessarily indicative of future results and amounts recovered may vary according to the facts in each case. An Association of Independent Lawyers & Law Corporations www.slglawyers.com Newton Crossing 203 – 7134 King George Blvd, Surrey, BC, V3W 5A3 T 604.543.8484 F 604.543.8584 1.877.778.8484 www.fijitimescanada.com Times Fiji News Friday June 1, 2012 9 Planning Vital Urban Fiji New Youth Logo Reflects New Era Youths need to be in the centre stage of decision making as they are any nation’s biggest asset says the Minister for Youth and Sports, Viliame Naupoto. He made the comments while launching the ministry’s new logo, vision and mission which depicts youth and issues affecting them. “I wanted our logo to reflect the most important thing that we are looking after and that is the people, the youths. If you look at our logo now, the prominent feature there is a human being,” he said. Mr Naupoto said youths are the future of tomorrow and should take a more proactive in the role in developing their own communities and the nation. “Youths are very important to any nation and for us here in Fiji, majority of the population fall under this category,” he said. “They are the biggest resources and asset Fiji has – thus they need to be in the centre of decisions especially in this ministry.” He added that the ministry will embark on a new journey which will see much more emphasis given to the nation’s future leaders. “It is a challenge but we can overcome,” Mr Naupoto said. “We need to work together as a group, as a family and as a ministry to make sure that our youths are in the forefront of decisions.” He said the ministry has already embarked on programmes and strategies for youths in terms of leadership trainings and others – especially those programmes that will help youths contribute positively towards the nation and generate income to assist their families. Nadi’s Special Administrator Aisea Tuidraki. THE recently launched urban management plan will help address issues such as where to situate the central business district to avoid catastrophes such as flooding. Many issues, such as adequate housing and provision of proper amenities, will need to be systematically addressed as much of the rural population moves to the urban centres in search of better socio-economic conditions. The plan, which is called the Urban Policy Action (UPAP): Urban Growth Management Action Plan (UGMAP) project, was thus appropriately launched by Special Administrator of Nadi, Aisea Tuidraki in Lautoka For the greater Western corridor. “The Fiji Census of 2007 confirmed the category and designation of Fiji as an urbanized society, having recorded 51 per cent of its population as residents living in urban areas,” Mr Tuidraki said. Furthermore, the rural-urban drift will see 60 per cent of Fiji’s population living in urban centres by 2030, according to the 2007 national census. “The sustainability of the urban area is significant to Government as the urban area contributes more than 60 per cent of the national economy,” he said. The UPAP (2007) and the National Housing Policy (2011) are two policy documents to address the issues thrown up due to urbanization. Mr Tuidraki says they are good guiding principles for municipalities who often feel ill equipped to meet the demand of rapid urbanization. Principal Town and Country Planner, Raijeli Taylor, said it is vital to have appropriate plans in place to see that the mushrooming settlements in the towns and cities and its suburbs are done in the right way. Mrs Taylor, who heads the project, faces some constraints such as the lack of skilled workers in the area of town and country planning but the department is doing a lot of field and research work to ensure the right plan to meet the needs of Fiji’s growing urban population. The UGMAP will provide guidance to Government agencies, organisations and specialized agencies in improving effectiveness of planning and management of urban growth. To get the best value for your dollar Advertise in 604-909-4088 Toll Free: 1 866 840 2885 15 Year-Old Children Can Work For Eight Hours Fiji children who are 15-years-old can be employed for up to eight hours per day. This has been made possible through the ratification of the Employment Relations Promulgation this year by the Ministry of Labour, Industrial Relations and Employment. Speaking at a press conference during the Child Trafficking and National Action Plan Workshop, Minister for Labour Jone Usamate said children are allowed to work but the work should not have a negative impact on their education and health. Usamate said not all work is considered to be child labour but parents need to look after their children. He said children can work but with certain conditions such the employer seeking parents' consent before a child is employed and the child must be paid minimum wages regulations orders rates where applicable. He also said the labour ministry together with the education ministry provides education to children who face child labour and if they refuse to attend classes then they are registered under the National Employment Centre where they are trained and up-skilled in order to have a qualification. 10 www.fijitimescanada.com Times Fiji News Friday June 1, 2012 AGB Delegation Here To Study Fijian Structure A delegation from the Autonomous Government of Bougainville is in the country to study the Fijian Government and the land lease structure of the Fijian administration. Members of the delegation met with the Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama where they presented their sevusevu requesting permission to learn how the Fijian Government has been successful in running its affairs without outside influence. The visit is to study the traditional governance structures and systems of the two countries with a view to develop an informal governance system that best meets the cultures of the people of Bougainville. The delegation also hopes to learn how Fiji has been dealing with soldiers who are returning home from peace keeping missions abroad. In welcoming the delegation the Prime Minister thanked the Government of Bougainville for sending a team over. Fiji’s women’s groups also will be under study, especially with the role they play in the development of Fiji through women’s group, Non – Governmental Organisations and government departments. “We are here also to learn from Fiji’s participation in commercial business involving natural resources like coconut products and others,” team leader Joseph Nope said. “We also are looking at visiting village based eco-tourism projects and learn how they contribute to help improve the livelihood of the people and contribute to the economy.” The team is looking at meeting up with government agencies to learn about its system of land ownership and how they keep records of traditional communal land and fishing rights. “We want to explore the possibility of an exchange scheme where Bougainville can learn from Fiji to help develop its eco-tourism, cottage industries, sports and recreation and other important programs. Forestry Urges People To Keep Planting Trees It is important for all Fijians to keep on planting trees although the Year of the Forests has ended. During an exclusive interview, Department of Forest principal extension officer Pita Rokobiau reiterated the need to keep on planting trees for our future generation. “Approximately four million trees were successfully planted during the one million tree campaign and the Year of the Forests by the people of Fiji. We are encouraging them not to stop there and continue to plant trees wherever they are,” Mr Rokobiau said. For the first time in the history of forestry in Fiji, the department managed to set up green houses around the country, especially in schools. “When the year of the forest came to an end, the Forestry Department built a record of eight breeding areas throughout Fiji. Initially we hoped to have breeding areas all over Fiji but we decided to take this initiative to schools. This way children can learn the importance of forests earlier in life, “ Rokobiau said. For the Northern Division green houses were set up Savusavu Secondary Schools, Bua College and at some schools in Macuata and Taveuni. Likewise in the Western Division green houses were erected at schools in Nadroga like Tagaqe Primary School and also Nawaqavesi Primary School in the Ra province. The green houses were used to breed indigenous tree species like vesi , dakua and damanu and acquired tree species like pine and mahogany. Rokobiau said people should know that forests were known as the silent provider. “Forests is also a source of energy, we use them as firewood, and are vital for livelihood because it cleanses the carbon dioxide and turns the air into oxygen. So just imagine without forests we would be breathing unclean air,” he said. “There are many other benefits of forests like reducing the impact of climate change. “Another benefit of having forest is that it reduces the impact of strong winds on our shores, so having the mangrove forest known locally as ‘tiri’ and ‘dogo’ reduces the impact of strong winds and waves on our shores. The Department of Forestry is urging people to keep the momentum going and make tree planting a habit because the benefits are enormous not only for human beings but to all living things. 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[email protected] www.fijitimescanada.com Times Fiji News Friday June 1, 2012 11 Fiji’s Wedding Market One Of The Best Tourism Fiji acting chief executive officer Michael Meeds says weddings can be among Fiji’s major market segments, especially for tourists from Australia and New Zealand. Mr Meeds was at the “Marry Me” expo organised by Tourism Fiji at the Warwick Resort and Spa in the Coral Coast which more than 100 travel agents from Australia, New Zealand, USA, and Europe attended. Mr Meed said Fiji was in the top market of wedding destinations internationally. “In terms of tropical island venues for weddings, Fiji has to be at the top because it has good air transportation from the major markets. Its good infrastructure can handle weddings and the facilitation of weddings is relatively easy here,” he said. “A typical wedding from Australia and New Zealand can mean 40 to 80 people and 100 sometimes and they might stay in Fiji for a week. “The wedding market stimulates a lot of business like transportation and other services that go with organising a wedding. “Of course weddings in Fiji are hugely popular in our major markets from celebrities to of course ordinary people.” Mr Meed said Fiji had witnessed many generations of people who got married here and they had become advocates for Fiji. Australian travel agent David Bental said they had been sending many people to Fiji for weddings and honeymoons. “Fiji is very close to home, the people are very friendly and give good value for money and everybody wants to come back again,” Mr Bental said. “Since the Australian dollar is quite strong they can afford to go to various resorts to get married. “Price wise it is very competitive in Fiji and we are seeing a lot of people being attracted here for honeymoons, weddings and holidays,” he added. Mr Sylvester Medeira from Travel Councilor in Australia, who is here for the first time, is optimistic of the future of Fiji’s wedding market. “It looks like the wedding market is going to be very big in Fiji in the future because you got potential and there are so many beautiful places, especially the islands. Each island is very different and people are looking for something different for their special occasion,” Mr Medeira said. “There are so much options being given here which are basically spoiling our clients back in Melbourne. The best part is there are some only exclusive to adults and some exclusively to the family. Indeed Fijis is catering beautifully for both markets." Warwick Fiji Happy To Host Marry Me Expo location.” Mr Huat said tourists visited Fiji not only for vacation but also for weddings and honeymoons. “Fiji is an island paradise with so many beautiful islands with much to offer to tourists,” he said. “The biggest attractions are the people themselves. Tourists love the Fijian warm and welcoming attitude and of course the big ‘bula’ smile.” Warwick’s ‘Talanoa Hall’ was the venue for the “marry me: tradeshow case” whereby resort managers, marketing and sales officers, event organizers, wedding planners and service providers showcase their products to overseas visitors. “Overseas delegates were introduced to the product of each individual resort. Each resort had its own unique product to sell,” the general manager said. Definitely the visiting agents will take back ideas on what Fiji can offer as the ideal wedding market for tourists. Located directly on the beach along Fiji's famous Coral Coast, the Warwick Fiji Resort and Spa is a 5-star resort with stunning Pacific Ocean views. All rooms have a private balcony. Warwick Fiji Resort and Spa Resort is a 90-minute drive from Nadi International Airport with five restaurants and four bars, including a swim-up and cocktail bar overlooking the beach. General Manager Warwick Resort Ung Beng Huat and Public Relations Officer Loata Koroi The spectacular Warwick Fiji Resort and Spa general manager Ung Beng Huat said it was an honor for the resort to be able to host the “marry me” exposition and convention organised by Tourism Fiji. “When Tourism Fiji approached us to host this event we were glad to do so. It was an honor for the resort to host the exposition and be part of this very important event showcasing Fiji as the ideal wedding market for tourists all over the world,” Mr Huat said. “We are happy to be able to host more than 150 agents from the USA, Australia, New Zealand, and Europe. “Just by hosting this important tourism event Fiji is able to showcase its attractive packages to the world as the ideal wedding and honeymoon PM Sends Best Wishes To Argentina Prime Minister Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama sent a congratulatory message to the Argentine Republic as it celebrates its National Day. In a letter to the Argentine President Her Excellency Cristina Fernández de Kirchner, PM Bainimarama sent greetings and well wishes from Fiji. Her Excellency Cristina Fernández de Kirchner is also Head of State and Head of the Argentine Government. “As the Government of the Argentine Republic celebrates its National Day, I wish to extend to you on behalf of the Government and the People of Fiji our most sincere congratulations and best wishes for your well-being, and for the continued progress and prosperity of your country and its citizens,” Prime Minister Bainimarama stated. Fiji and Argentina signed a joint communiqué in April 1975 and have since enjoyed cordial relations. However, in recent years they have enjoyed closer relations following the opening of Fiji’s embassy in Brazil. “I’m confident that the relations our countries share will continue to prosper in the coming years,” PM Bainimarama added M. Khan & Company Immigration Counsellors Ltd. “Many Professions in DeManD” “fo c us e d p r ac t i c e, fo c us e d k n oW l e d g e, a c l e a r v i e W o f t h e so lu t i o n s” We are an experienced and fully qualified certified team of immigration experts. Quebec skilled workers, if you can speak French • Quebec Skilled Worker; Only need 57 points. • Family Class Sponsorship; • Temporary Status(Super Visa, Work, Student and Visitor Visa); • AEO/LMO Applications • IRB Hearings, Refugee, Sponsorship and admissibility Appeals; • Skilled Workers; • All Provincial Nominee Program Applications including entrepreneur and Investor classes @mkcoca $600 Fine A Marshall Islands national of Chinese origin was fined $600 by the Nadi Magistrates Court for transiting 90 pornographic digital video discs through the country. Magistrate Mohammed Ajmer informed the 34-year old accused Junshen that failure to pay the fine would result in him being imprisoned for 30 days. Customs officials seized the DVDs at the Nadi International Airport and forwarded them to censors who deemed the material pornographic in nature. Mr Junshen, who was not represented, said in his defense that the pornographic movies were for his personal use and were to be distributed to family and friends in the Marshall Islands. Sergeant Subramani Naidu appeared for the prosecution. Mr Junshen was granted bail after surrendering his passport. ALL OTHER TyPES OF IMMIgRATION ANd CITIzENSHIP MATTERS Mumtaz Khan, CEO Member of ICCRC Suite 213-8334 128th St., Surrey, BC E-mail:
[email protected] Read the Fiji Times Canada online www.fijitimescanada.com Phone: 604-591-5824 www.mkco.ca 12 www.fijitimescanada.com Times Fiji News Friday June 1, 2012 Shopping Via Your Cellphone A New Zealand company selling goods online now accepts payments through Vodafones MPAiSA. Only Deals, owned by former Fiji resident, Mudassir Hussein, announced this after it discovered that at least 98 per cent of Fijians did not have access to credit cards. With the plastic money inaccessible, the company has turned to the fastgrowing mobile money. This is the first time that mobile money is being used as a method of payment for online shopping in Fiji. Only Deals, www.onlydeals.co.nz specializes in web sales of branded products at reasonable prices. This is one way I could give back to my country, Mr Hussein said. Those who are subscribed to the site will receive daily text messages and emails allowing them to have an idea of what specials are online on a daily basis. Daily deals range from cosmetics, electronics, computer and consumables as well as accessories such as jewellery and car accessories. The M-PAiSA system and its implementations as a payment option have many advantages compared to credit cards, Mr Hussein said. As m-commerce (mobile commerce) and online transactions receive greater acceptability and confidence, M-PAiSA becomes a very convenient and safe option to make online payments for Fiji residents. I am delighted to be one of the pioneering online business operators to open up this mobile phone based M-PAiSA payment option on my website. As a former Fiji resident I wish to contribute to Fijis economy and also help push m-commerce in the Fiji market. For most online payments, one needs to have a credit card. Unfortunately with just 2-3 per cent of Fiji’s population having access to credit cards, the majority of the common people are denied the opportunity to take advantage of many attractive deals offered through the internet. The M-PAiSA system and this new payment system allows for common Fijians to be able to interact with the internet and engage in m-commerce more freely. It also overcomes the fear of insecurity of many credit card holders who feel that their credit cards may be compromised because certain details about the cards are revealed online. The M-PAiSA mode of payment is secure and safe, confidential and perhaps the easiest mode of payment available on the internet. The users do not reveal any details about their M-PAiSA account online. Furthermore and unlike credit cards making online payment via M-PAiSA does is also attractive to me as a vendor because it does not attract very high vendor fees when compared with credit cards. Head of VAS and M-PAiSA at Vodafone Shailendra Prasad said. This is yet another milestone for Vodafone to be able to integrate M-PAiSA as an online payment option. Credit card penetration is certainly very low in Fiji and also it is not easy to get one. In contrast, everyone has a mobile phone and it is much less cumbersome to get an M-PAiSA account. M-PAiSA online payment option is a boost for online businesses in Fiji and those who wish to target the Fijian clients. Businesses interested in exploring this online payment option can contact the Vodafone M-PAiSA. M-PAiSA effectively opens up 9598 per cent of Fiji’s population to be able to do online transactions without a credit card. Considering a career in Human Resources? Our Human Resources Management Program follows the guidelines of the Canadian Council of Human Resources Associations to qualify as a Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP). Contact an Admissions Adviser today. Fijian Tourism In The Right Direction With 600,000 visitor arrivals annually and a robust approach adopted by the Fijian Government, the tourism industry in Fiji is now placed on solid footings. Those are the sentiments of the Minister for Traditional Authority, Information and Communication Joseph Nope of the Autonomous Government of Bougainville (AGB), which is in the country. Mr Nope says they hope to learn from Fiji to better the AGB region in the tourism sector once they return home. “Fiji’s tourism sector is just magnificent. We have seen the Fijian hospitality and hope to learn as much from the Fijians,” he said. The delegation witnessed Fijian hospitality and how Fijians approached tourists in town and cities and how this has benefited the Fijian economy via the tourism industry. Culturally, Fijians are known to the world as the friendliest people on earth with the renowned Bula spirit, topped up with traditional programs that are evident in all hotels and resorts around the country. “The Fijian fire walking is one such case, there are trips for visitors to the highlands, river safari and traditional Fijian cooking (lovo) which are now known everywhere,” Mr Nope said. “Back in the AGB region we are also very cultural and hope to increase tourist activity there by working closely with the Fijian concepts. “We have a lot of beautiful islands and beaches too and we hope to finalize something soon with the Fijian Government.” When asked if Fijians could be given opportunities to work in Bougainville to help the region’s tourism growth, Mr Nope said this was something they were seriously considering and he was optimistic that things would materialize soon. www.fijitimescanada.com Times Fiji News Friday June 1, 2012 13 THE new majority shareholder of Fiji Dairy Limited, formerly the Rewa Dairy Co-operative Limited, is expected to be announced soon. FDL chairman Adrian Sofield said the board’s recommendations on the purchaser of the company should be announced soon. The sale is part of the reforming of the country’s dairy industry. Rewa Dairy Co-operative Limited, when it was reformed was split into two companies FDL and the Fiji Dairy Co-operative Company Limited, which is fully owned by the dairy farmers. FDL is 80 per cent owned by the government while the other shareholder is FDCCL. The government is selling all its shares in FDL. Mr Sofield said they were in negotiations with two companies. The search for the buyer began with 16 companies before it was reduced to the final two. Both companies are said to State To Sell Shares In Dairy Company be local with a bit of knowledge of the dairy industry. We are looking for someone who really understands the business, Mr Sofield said. He added the objective of the restructure was not only to improve processing but the numbers of dairy farmers as well. Fiji consumes between 70 to 80 million liters of milk annually, but we are only producing 10 million liters. Mr Sofield said the target was to eventually produce 25 million liters a year and also export some. He added that the new owner would make significant changes and improve production Mr Sofield said FDL was producing only 60 per cent of its capacity and as such the new owner may boost production without conducting many changes to the equipment. The reforms will also include dairy farmers who are based in the Western Division. Baby Boom At CWM THE Colonial War Memorial Hospital has recorded the delivery of 845 babies this month. Hospitals gynecologist Doctor James Fong said the rise in the number of deliveries could not be classed as a baby boom. It has been happening for quite long now and if you look at the long time trend, and then there are an increasing number of deliveries at CWM Hospital, he said. I think the increase in the number of deliveries recorded is because a lot of people are coming to Suva because of internal migration. Dr Fong said the figures on babies delivered at other health facilities around the country could only tell if there was a baby boom. He told the Fiji Health Symposium that the biggest issue faced last year was unplanned pregnancies. The biggest issue for 2011 was family planning unplanned pregnancy was a problem. He said there were eight deaths last year, with five being maternal mortality and three for incidental mortality. The maternal mortality rate has improved a lot but we want to improve it some more. Dr Fong said the delay in seeking care; reaching the hospitals and receiving care were the causes of the deaths. He said some pregnant women could not attend their clinics or go to the hospitals because they lived far and could not afford the bus fares. We are promoting the concept of birth preparation plan and complication readiness plan. If they (pregnant women) book early, then there won’t be any problems. There are also cases of unwanted pregnancies and these are the married couples that we are talking about. Dr Fong said most of the maternal deaths were the result of improper planning. The Fiji National University will be declared a Tobacco Free University when the Ministry of Health, in conjunction with World Health Organization, celebrated World No Tobacco Day on May 31. Each year WHO celebrates World No Tobacco Day, highlighting the health risks associated with tobacco use and advocating for effective policies to reduce consumption. Tobacco use is the second cause of death globally (after hypertension) and is responsible for killing one in 10 adults worldwide. The World Health Assembly created World No Tobacco Day in 1987 to draw global attention to the tobacco epidemic and its lethal effects. It provides an opportunity to highlight specific tobacco control messages and to promote adherence to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. Fiji has fully complied with the requirements of this treaty with the amended Tobacco Act 1998 into the Tobacco Control Decree 2010. There has also been a number of tobacco Health Ministry Counters Tobacco Industry Read the Fiji Times Canada online www.fijitimescanada.com free villages such as community halls on the island of Rotuma, the village of Naqumu in Macuata, Ba Mission Hospital, Nabukaluka in Naitasiri and Nabila Village in Sigatoka have been declared as tobacco free. The theme for this year’s celebrations is "tobacco industry interference". The campaign will focus on the need to expose and counter the tobacco industry's brazen and increasingly aggressive attempts to undermine the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) and the serious danger they pose to public health. For example, in an attempt to halt the adoption of pictorial health warnings on packages of tobacco, the industry recently adopted the novel tactic of suing countries under bilateral investment treaties, claiming that the warnings impinge the companies' attempts to use their legally-registered brands. In regards to the Tobacco Decree 2010, Fiji is working towards increasing the font size of health warnings on cigarette packets from January 1, 2013. There will also be introduction to pictorial warnings on cigarettes packets. Thousands of Satisfied Clients! 132 Child Abuse Cases In First 5 Months There have been 132 cases of child abuse recorded by Fiji’s Ministry of Social Welfare, Women and Poverty Alleviation in the first five months of this year. Permanent Secretary Govind Sami told the Health Symposium in Suva said sexual abuse topped the list, with 68 cases recorded. There were eight physical abuse cases and 12 neglect cases. There were seven malnutrition cases, eight medical cases, two abandonment cases, one indecent assault and one drug abuse case. Sami urged medical officials to report child abuse case directly to the ministry instead of contacting Police. He said Police do not have any right to interview a child as the force does not have the power under the law to handle child cases. He said many children who are sexually or physically abused are traumatized and need appropriate people to attend to them and these people should be well trained for the job. "All abused children need security and care and that is why the social welfare ministry is handling their cases." "In a child neglect case, the ministry has every right to take legal action against the parents for neglecting their child. "In addition, parents will have no right to any decision about the child once matter is transferred to court," said Sami. “Helping You Become Debt Free” We Can Reduce Your Debt by More Than 50% Stop Interest On The Balance And Convert That Into Interest Free Payments Up to 5 Years kI kI kI kI kI quhwfw vwl-vwl krzy ivc fuibAw hoieAw hY? quhwfy swry krYift kwrf Bry hoey hn? quhwfI rwqW dI nINd Aqy idn dw cYn hrwm hY? quhwnMU fr hY ik ikqy sB kuJ ivk nw jwvy? quhwfI smJ ivc nhI Aw irhw ik kI kIqw jwvy? We also Help in Bankruptcies For appointment call : Arvinder S. Kalsey (
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[email protected]) First Consultation is Free & Confidential Toronto Office (Head Office) Unit #43, 8500 Torbram Rd. Brampton, ON L6T 5C6 AsI quhwfw A`Dy qoN ijAwdw krzw muAwP krvw skdy hW Aqy bkwieAw rkm CotIAW-CotIAW Interest Free ikSqW ivc bdl dyvWgy[ quhwfy ibzns, kwr zW Gr nUM koeI Creditor h`Q nhI pwvygw[ Surrey Office Suite #205, 12033 92A Ave. Surrey, BC V3V 4B8 qW GbrwE nhI Calgary Office Suite #212, 3132 26th St. NE Calgary, Alberta T1Y 6Z1 905-789-8984 Fax: 416-898-9367 604-951-8984 Fax: 604-951-8983 403-714-8984 Fax: 403-714-8983 Toll Free: 1-866-790-8984 www.bscc.ca 14 www.fijitimescanada.com Times Fiji News Friday June 1, 2012 The Fijian Government is disappointed by the actions and statements of Qantas, and it categorically denies that it has any intention of taking control of Air Pacific Ltd. The recent Civil Aviation Decree was designed to ensure that Fiji complies with the Chicago Convention and Bilateral Agreements that require national airlines that fly to other countries to be “owned and effectively controlled” by the citizens of that country. This very point was made by Qantas on March 12, 2012 when they themselves argued to the Australian International Air Services Commission that Virgin Australia was not under the “effective Fijian Government Disappointed By Qantas’ Actions control” of Australian citizens and hence ineligible to transfer capacity on the Indonesian route as Virgin had requested on February 23, 2012. Fiji’s laws regarding the ownership and control of its national carrier are now the same or similar to those that exists in many other countries, such as the EU, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States. The Fijian Government has no interest or intention to nationalize any company in Fiji. Qantas is welcome to maintain the same rights as a normal minority shareholder, and dividends will be paid as and when declared. Fiji's 'oldest old' is the fastest growing age group with 17 per cent of the population classified old by 2050. Permanent Secretary for Social Welfare, Women and Poverty Alleviation Govind Sami told the Health Symposium in Suva the “oldest old” or people over 60 is growing by 4.9 per cent per year. By 2025, Fiji will have at least 110,000 people over 60 and 170,000 by 2050, with more females than male. Of these, at least 50,000 will be males and 60,000 females in 2025 and 80,000 males to 90,000 females in 2050. Sami said according to World Health Organisation projections, by 2030, the world will have older persons than 'Oldest Old' Growing Fastest, 17Pc By 2050 Fiji’s Soqosoqo Duavata Ni Lewenivanua says it has no intention of obstructing the 2014 elections or the constitutionmaking processes, but wants the process to be fair and independent. SDL leader Laisenia Qarase said in a statement said it is his duty as party leader to point out flaws in the election and constitution-making processes being implemented. “As a nation we must ensure that these processes are credible and fair to the people of Fiji and to the international community,” said Qarase. Qarase said the SDL wants to be heard by the Constitution Commission but they want an independent commission. He said it is important that the consultation processes are inclusive, participatory, free, fair and transparent. He said they would like to see an SDL Will Not Obstruct Elections, Says Qarase independent body handle the voter registration and the entire election process. That independent body should be the independent office of the Supervisor of Elections, he said. However Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum said the 2006 elections which had an independent supervisor of election and an independent electoral commission still had a lot of flaws as reported by the European Union. Sayed-Khaiyum said there were 20,000 mistakes in the electoral rolls and 9.7 per cent of the votes were invalid. Constitution Commission chair Professor Yash Ghai said earlier the commission is very much independent and it hopes to carry out transparent public consultations towards the drafting of a new Constitution. children. “By 2030, there shall be more widows than widowers.” Ageing is occurring rapidly in Fiji and the rate of growth of the age 60 plus population will likely remain above three per cent per year for the next 20 years. Sami said 15,000 people will be added to the 'old' category over the next five years at 3,000 per year. “Annual increase will peak in 2025 at 3,200 and will still be around 3,000 in 2050,” he said. Sami said health expenditures per capita are estimated to be 3-5 times higher for over-65s. LIVE ROOSTERS and DUCKS Very large live glossy Red Roosters $17.50 Each Roosters are ready now. Live Muscovy Ducks $25.00 each Way To Grow Products 14418 44 Avenue, Surrey BC 604.594.6755 COMING SOON LIVE GOATS Open: 8:00 AM to 5:00PM Monday to Friday There are 11,400 people living with disability in Fiji. This was revealed to the autonomous government of Bougainville delegation that is currently in the country studying Fiji’s system of governance. Speaking to the delegation Ministry of Social Welfare, Women and Poverty Alleviation Permanent Secretary Govind Sami said they have recently ratified the convention for rights of 11,400 People Living With Disabilities persons with disability in order to help them engage in more activities. Sami said they have trained disabled people to help them be absorbed into the workforce. He said disabled people should be given an equal opportunity like any other person. He said the ministry is doing its best to try and accommodate those with disabilities and provide them with services. Email:
[email protected] www.vannotary.com The Ministry of Social Welfare, Women and Poverty Alleviation has cleared the air on the taxi fare discount confusion highlighted by the taxi operators from Lautoka. Ministry of Social Welfare, Women and Poverty Alleviation permanent secretary Govind Sami reiterated that as per the Deed of Agreement, the Fiji Taxi Union has provisions for 20 per cent discounts on taxi fare for disabled persons and senior citizens. “The senior citizens and disabled Ministry Clarifies Taxi Fare Discounts persons, who are the recipients of government’s bus fare subsidy, carry a yellow ID card (for senior citizens) and red ID card (for disabled persons). “These ID Cards are sufficient proof for the individual to access the 20 per cent discount on taxi fares. The discount on taxi fare is up to 20 kilometers of the distance travelled,” Mr Sami said. Mr Sami has called on the beneficiaries to be clear on this information and has advised them on making proper use of Government services and facilities. www.fijitimescanada.com Times Fiji News Friday June 1, 2012 15 Case Adjourned The case of five men who are alleged to have conspired to writing seditious words along the Suva-Nausori corridor last August has been adjourned to July 26. Chief Magistrate Usaia Ratuvili has given the State prosecution ample time to ensure police complete full investigations and submit disclosures. State prosecution was questioned on the delay behind the investigations to produce full disclosures in the sedition case against five men, including a Sri Lankan-born New Zealand citizen Jagath Karunaratne. The five men, Karunarathe, Mosese Bulitavu, Eroni Takape, Usaia Koroi and Waisale Daganayasi, appeared in the Magistrates Court in Suva and have pleaded not guilty to the sedition charge. It is alleged that between August 21 and 27 last year, the five wrote seditious words in public places and on billboards along the Nausori and Suva roads with a seditious intention to bring into hatred or contempt or to excite dissatisfaction against the government Detective Corporal Salusi Seru, the investigating officer, said other prominent cases have come up and contributed to the delay. Corporal Seru said a lack of resources was also contributing to the delay. Lawyer Rajendra Chaudhry is representing Karunarathe, Takape, Koroi and Daganayasi and lawyer John Rabuku is representing Bulitavu. Chaudhry questioned the time lapse saying six months was too long to continue to run investigations. Corporal Seru agreed that there is a delay in the investigations, informed the court that they had only submitted the docket to the DPP office in the morning and sought further time from the court to complete full investigations. Rabuku questioned whether there was sufficient evidence to have filed the charges. Corporal Seru replied that they still need further clarifications from the DPP on the police statements so that they will be able to complete investigations. Chaudhry questioned Corporal Seru on the release of the accused personal assets that have been with the police since the arrest, including the laptop and mobile phone of Karunaratne. Corporal Seru replied investigations were ongoing and he would have to get the personal assets from the Information Technology Department. Chief Magistrate ordered that Corporal Seru liaise with the defense lawyers for their release and has excused the presence of the five accused at the next court sitting. The Government of Indonesia is ready to assist Fiji in the constitution process says Aidil Chandra Salim, Indonesian Ambassador to Fiji. In a statement, Salim affirmed this at the public lecture looking at the constitutional reform process of Indonesia which was held at the University of the South Pacific this week. “Indonesia would like to walk along with Fiji in her reform process and consultation period by sharing Indonesia’s experience of the constitutional evolution,” he said. Director of the Institute of Peace and Democracy in Bali, Indonesia, Dr Ketut Putra Erawan said everyone must come together and be part of the constitution-making process because it is sacred. Dr Erawan spoke on the challenges, choices and lessons of constitutional reform and how Fiji can learn and model the Indonesian experience as both are archipelagic states. Head of USP School of Government, Development and International Affairs, Professor Vijay Naidu said Indonesia Ready To Assist On Constitution Process FRCA To Open Offices In The West The Fiji Revenue and Customs Authority still plans to open new offices in the Western Division. The opening this year was delayed because of recent flooding in the divisio FRCA chief executive officer, Jitoko Tikolevu says the two offices, which were to be opened in Rakiraki and Sigatoka would open at a later date. “We had identified officers and had surveyed our offices both in Sigatoka as well as Rakiraki, but flooding in the areas has suspended the opening of the office to a later date,” he said. “However, we are eager to establish our offices in Sigatoka and Rakiraki.” Mr Tikolevu says Rakiraki and Sigatoka are growing towns and the extension of services by the authority was warranted. “We have been moving around and we saw the need to have offices and provide services in the areas,” the FRCA chief said. “We are starting small in Rakiraki but at least we are taking care of the demand.” The opening of offices in other urban centres is also part of the FRCA reform, which means decentralizing of the services to better serve the people. Last year, FRCA opened offices in Savusavu and Rotuma, which boosted services in the Northern Division, especially for the tourist town of Savusavu that also looks after Taveuni and the Cakaudrove province. Diwesh Sharma it is an opportune time for people in Fiji to learn from the experience of other countries including Indonesia on matters of constitutional reform. He said that amongst others, the constitutional reforms in Indonesia sought to make the military more professional. He urged youths and women to make submissions to the Constitutional Commission. Fiji’s Attorney-General, Aiyaz SayedKhaiyum, who was also present at the public lecture, said that values and principles are the most defining and vital features of a constitution. “The constitution consultation process outlines some non-negotiable measures which include equal and common citizenry, one person, one vote, one value, elimination of ethnic voting and socio-economic rights for all citizens,” he said. Meanwhile, Professor Naidu said Fiji was a confused republic over the last 25 years with the Union Jack in its flag, the Queen's image still displayed on Fiji's currency, and a public holiday on her birthday. Read the Fiji Times Canada online www.fijitimescanada.com 16 www.fijitimescanada.com Times Fiji News Friday June 1, 2012 Intimate Partners, Mothers In Laws Highlighted In Violence Report There are clear indications that intimate partners and in-laws are the main perpetrators when it comes to physical violence against women in Fiji. According to a survey, 70 to 80 percent of physical violence inflicted on women in the country is by their intimate partners or their mothers-in-law. This has been revealed by Doctor Tupou Wata in a presentation on violence against women and how the health professionals can act to ensure that the women are protected. Two recent cases have been highlighted where women had to go for treatment at the Burns Unit. It has also been revealed that a woman did not want to be discharged from hospital as she feared for her life if she returned home. Whenever her time would come to be discharged, she would complain of shortness of breath and ask the doctor if she can stay in hospital. It has been revealed that forms of abuse and violence on this woman included her partner pushing her face into hot water. Fiji Womens Crisis Centre Coordinator, Shamima Ali said that the reported violence against women by the inlaws is mainly from the Indo Fijian community. It has been highlighted that the Domestic Violence Decree is in place and victims should be protected and such cases have to be reported and an application for a restraining order can be made. Health professionals also say cases should be referred to the Police and the Social Welfare Ministry. Bollywood Movie Shoot In Suva People in Suva were all excited as the shooting for the Bollywood film ‘3G’ moved to Suva. Eager crowd surrounded the Sacred Heart Cathedral, next to the Reserve Bank of Fiji. Fans did not miss the opportunity to click a few pictures with the famous Bollywood actor, Neil Nitin Mukesh, who is the lead in the film ‘3G’. The $7-million film, produced under Next Gen Production (Fiji) banner with Eros International as distributors, began shooting in Fiji on May 15. It stars Mr Mukesh and Sonal Chauhan as lead actors. Film director Shantanu Ray described shooting in Fiji to have been fantastic so far. “It is beautiful and serene and even the weather has been favourable with the exception of a few showers on a couple of days,” he said. Mr Ray said even the crew were enjoying the Fijian hospitality and especially the locally made ‘Vonu Beer’. The crew will be shooting in Suva over the next six days. Mr Ray said shooting will be at the Sacred Heart Cathedral, Civic Centre, the Suva foreshore area, the Ivy Triangle and the Handicraft Centre. “So we will be covering almost all of Suva City after which we will move on to Western Division and outer islands,” he said. Mr Ray said the movie is on schedule. Meanwhile, Mr Mukesh said he loved Fiji even more after exploring it. To get the best value for your dollar Advertise in 604-909-4088 Toll Free: 1 866 840 2885 OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 10 am - 8 pm S y& a us e r r hM r e FM e i ak t t 114 - 7218 King George Blvd. Surrey BC (Save On Food Plaza Next to Kelly’s Pub) Phone: 604.599.8306 Cell: 604.725.3132 Crab $3.49 to $4.99 lb NZ Lamb Shoulder $3.19 lb NZ Lamb Shank $4.19 lb Fresh Goat Meat$5.29 lb NZ Lamb Sausage $5.19 ea Fiji Ocean Mackerel 2 for $4.99 or $2.58 ea (Limit 4 per customer) Fresh Fresh Snapper $2.99 lb NZ Goat $3.99 lb NZ Lamb Leg Short Cut $5.29 lb Fresh Ling Cod $4.19 lb Tandoori Mix Tuna Steak $4.99 lb Long Cut $4.99 lb www.fijitimescanada.com Times Fiji News Friday June 1, 2012 17 DHL, the world's leading logistics company, announced it’s direct Less than Container Load (LCL) service from Auckland to Suva. The weekly service bolsters DHL's existing airfreight service. With a transit time of just 7 days, the new weekly direct LCL service reduces the transit time between the point pairs by 2 days. New Zealand is used as a gateway to the Pacific Island for Asia, Europe and North America. Fiji's main imports include mineral products, machinery, vehicles and aircraft, vegetable products, prepared foodstuffs, chemicals and allied products, and base metals. Fiji also acts as a hub and distribution point for products arriving from New Zealand as they are sometimes assembled or refined, then re-exported to other islands in the Pacific, particularly if they are subcomponents of a final product. "Due to its proximity, size and the main business language being English, Fiji is a relatively easy market for New Zealand exporters to service. While New Zealand's exports to the Pacific Islands are relatively small, it has been reported that they have been growing at an average rate of approximately five percent per year since 2000," said Brian Broom, Managing Director, DHL Global Forwarding New Zealand. "With the launch of this new LCL service, we are helping exporters from our market to reach their customers in Fiji and beyond in a more a speedier manner." "Overall exports from Fiji have trended upwards over the past decade. Machinery, electrical machinery and DHL Bolsters NZ To Fiji Freight Service food waste and animal feed represent the highest export growth items over the past decade, with food waste and animal feed increasing by 289 percent," said Marc Meier, Senior Vice President Ocean Freights and Head of Global LCL. "Fiji has always been a positive market for export products. We've identified it as a market for development and we'll continue to monitor how DHL can best support the region", said Dr. Kelvin Leung CEO, Asia Pacific, DHL Global Forwarding. All LCL services are accompanied by DHL's first-class IT solutions such as DHL Track & Trace and other tools to allow full visibility throughout the whole supply chain. For complete peace of mind, DHL also provides insurance services to customers as a value-added service. DHL's Shippers Interest Insurance (SII) covers losses or damages of all cargo transported by DHL, as well as transportation costs. DHL currently operates the world's largest LCL network with close to 2,000,000 cubic meters of LCL freight handled annually via 45,000 pointpairs. As a global leader in LCL, DHL carries more than 97 per cent of its total volumes in house. The in-house systems and strong global network enables the control of cargo flow, information flow, speed, accuracy, cost efficiency and reliability. Going beyond port to port, DHL LCL service also offers a complete end-to-end supply chain management that includes pick-up at origin, consolidation and deconsolidation, delivery at destination and customs clearance. Confident 2012 For Investment Fiji Investment Fiji announced its registered and Mandarin,” Mr Uluilakeba said. achievements for the first quarter of the year which included a favourable forecast in terms of foreign investment levels when compared to previous years. From January to April, Investment Fiji received a total of 51 investment proposals with the value of $211.8 million, supported by employment proposals of 1623. This was announced at a press conference in Suva by Investment Fiji chief executive, Ravuni Uluilakeba. Mr Uluilakeba said with this trend they also anticipate reaching their targeted number of projects implemented which was 200 with a value of $699 million by December of this year. “2012 is starting off with good pace, the first quarter saw Investment Fiji reaching its targets of 51 projects received compared to 42 projects in 2011. “To further enhance the service we provide to investors we are working towards the possibility to include French and Hindi languages in our websites, which already has Japanese, Korean, He said a project team was also working with Information Communication and Technology Services and other Government approving agencies towards the implementation of the On-line Payments Gateway (IPG) for application, registration, monitoring and payment of foreign investment applications on-line. “The trial of this project for tier one agencies should be completed by June end, afterwards the tier two agencies will be included with target implementations date by late quarter three,” he said. Mr Uluilakeba also said thanks to innovative schemes put forward by Government like the Tax Free Regions, the reduction in corporate tax rate to 20 per cent which enhanced the investment drive in attracting foreign investment. “Tax Free Regions are available to newly-incorporated entities established in Vanua Levu including Taveuni, Rabi, Kioa, as well as Rotuma, Kadavu, Lau and Lomaiviti provinces,” he said. A teenage girl was allegedly pushed into the sea from the Suva seawall while drinking with her partner. The girl sustained scratches on her body. Teenage Girl Allegedly Pushed Into The Sea While Drinking At Seawall Police arrived at the scene after an eyewitness reported the incident. The girl and her partner have been taken in for questioning. WE CAN HELP!!!! Collection Problems! Debt Problems! Living Pay Cheque to Pay Cheque Are you being harassed by Bill Collectors? Barely able to make minimum payments Scared to answer your phone Going to Pay Day Loan Investment Fiji is working closely with the Immigration Department to make processes easier for foreign investors upon entry in the country. This is expected to be done with the introduction of a new clause in the Fiji immigration arrival cards. Investment Fiji chairman Adrian Sofield said there was talk about including a clause in the immigration arrivals cards that says: ‘Do you wish to invest in Fiji?’. “If they tick that box, Investment Fiji will be able to contact them.” Mr Sofield said investors end up losing a lot of money when they bypass various institutions like the iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB). “A number of foreign investors come in to Fiji and are unaware they are supposed to go through Investment Fiji,” he said. “They start dealing directly with the landowners particularly with land Processes Being Made Easier For Foreign Investors issues and native titles instead of going to TLTB.” Along with the arrival cards, Investment Fiji is also looking at getting their own card that would be handed out in the aircraft at the same time the arrival cards are distributed. “These will be a double-sided passportsized card that would have information on TLTB on one side of the card and on investment in Fiji on the other side,” he said. Mr Sofield said these cards would help potential investors understand there was a process and would eliminate a lot of problems caused when investors bypass Investment Fiji, unknowingly or unwillingly. “In addition to that, we are bringing in a 24/7 toll-free number and we are also trying to improve access to our website to make it easy for investors to contact us and for us to work with them,” Mr Sofield said. Revenue Canada or ICBC Debt Late Evenings& Weekends Appointments Available We can help you REDUCE you BILLS by 75% Harassment Calls Make One Small Monthly Payment To All Your Creditors Avoid Bankruptcy & Absolutely Interest Free Rebuild your CREDIT WHAT YOU NEED, WHEN YOU NEED IT! Abdul Khan Tel: 604-440-3328 Toronto:647-701-DEBT(3328) Vancouver: 604-440-DEBT (3328) Edmonton: 780-200-DEBT(3328) Read the Fiji Times Canada online www.fijitimescanada.com 18 www.fijitimescanada.com Times Fiji News Friday June 1, 2012 Cybercrime is now a real threat for Fiji, according to the Reserve Bank’s Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) in Suva. The unit receives 60 to 70 suspicious transaction reports every month on possible money laundering, tax evasion, and other serious offences. RBF Governor Barry Whiteside said they had always taken a stance to strengthen their battle against money laundering. The RBF has noted the use of internet banking facility portals at local commercial banks for cybercrimerelated activities such as phishing, hacking, identity theft and advance fee fraud. Mr Whiteside said they had put in place policies which banks and licensed financial institutions must adhere to when dealing with their customers and the public. Razim Buksh, director of the FIU, said people thought there was an easy and quick way of getting rich. “This seems very attractive to the criminals and to become involved,” Mr Buksh said. He said money laundering usually involved careful planning and complex transactions. However, Mr Buksh said the authorities in Fiji – including the FIU – now had the necessary skills, expertise and technical resources to Reserve Bank Says Money Laundering Is A Threat There Are Now More Than 35 Per Cent Of The People In Fiji Living In Poverty Phone Scammers Had Base In Fiji from an anti-money laundering special work team, asked the finance manager to transfer the company’s funds to a “safe” designated account which she did. Unemployed young men from China were said to have been recruited with the promise of work abroad on tourist visas and high salaries. Police spokesperson, Ana Naisoro, confirmed to the media that a group of Chinese detectives had carried out investigative work in the country. “A Chinese police detectives delegation from mainland China was in the country early this month. With the assistance of our Criminal Investigations Department (CID), counterparts from Fiji they conducted their investigation in Suva and moved down to the West,” Ms Naisoro said. She said the group, upon completing investigations, left the country for China on Monday. People’s Community Network of Fiji (PCN) consultant Father Kevin Barr said after a recent survey conducted they found out that from 2007 to 2008, 31. 4 per cent of the population was living in poverty and today the percentage would have increased to 35 per cent and more. The report shows the poorest people live in rural areas particularly those from the Indian community and 60 per cent of those in full-time employments earn wages below the poverty line while 15 per cent of the population lives in squatter settlements especially in the greater Suva area. The report reveals over 66 per cent of those who drop out of school do so because of poverty and 23,670 are receiving the Family Assistance Scheme (FAS). The report also shows the lower 30 per cent of the population earns 10.3 per cent of all wages while the upper 30 per cent of the population earns 59.8 per cent of all wages. investigate and prosecute complex money laundering cases. He said FIU provided investigative assistance to domestic law enforcement agencies. The FIU works very closely with these agencies in terms of sharing and facilitating information with the vision of protecting Fiji, the financial intuitions and members of the public from money laundering. He said FIU continued to provide guidance to financial institutions on mechanisms used for money laundering. Mr Buksh said it was also a criminal offence in Fiji if a person received, possessed, concealed, disposed of or brings into Fiji any money, or other property, that may reasonably be suspected of being proceeds of crime. “Money laundering is a serious criminal offence in Fiji,” he said. Mr Buksh said a person who engaged in money laundering activity commits an offence under the Proceeds of Crime Act and is liable on conviction to a maximum fine of $120,000 or maximum imprisonment of 20 years, or both. If the offence is committed by a company or a body corporate then the maximum fine is $600,000. He said the FIU had strategies in place that provided guidance to financial institutions and members of the public to detect and report suspected cases of money laundering activities in Fiji. Vishnu Mohan will now take up the new appointment of CEO Fiji and CEO Pacific Central region for the ANZ Banking Group Limited. The announcement was made t by ANZ with Mohan taking up the role in August. Mohan will be responsible for management of the Pacific Central region also serving as Chairman Vishnu Mohan, New ANZ CEO Pacific Central Region of ANZ's regional shared services operations based in Fiji. Commenting on the appointment, CEO Pacific Michael Rowland said that his extensive international banking experience and understanding of Pacific markets, qualifies him to lead the business in Fiji. Mohan replaces Norman Wilson, who will retire in September. Free Interplast Surgery In Labasa Free general plastic and reconstructive surgical services will be provided by the Interplast Australia and New Zealand from July 2 to 6, this year. This is a project actively supported by the Labasa Rotary Club. “To date 8311 consultations and 4539 life changing operations have been provided on interplast programmes in Fiji,” Mr Prasad said. He said the Interplast medical team would conduct a free consultation clinic on July 2 at 8:30am in the Outpatients Clinic at the Labasa General Hospital. “Appointments must be made in advance by contacting Doctor Jaoji Vulibeci at the Labasa Hospital on 8811444 prior to June 29,” Mr Prasad said. “Patients with conditions including congenital anomalies, such as cleft lip and palate or acquired conditions such as burn scar contractures, hand injuries and tumours are urged to contact the Surgical Unit at the Labasa Hospital for an appointment,” Mr Prasad said. “Please note patients with common skin diseases or cosmetic conditions will be excluded from this consultation,” he said. The Fiji Police Force played an active role in the crackdown of a transnational telephone scam ring in six Asian countries and Fiji last week. A total of 482 suspects have been arrested in an operation involving police in Thailand, Taiwan, Malaysia, Indonesia, Cambodia, Sri Lanka and Fiji. Masterminds behind the scam set up the host computer and circuits in Taiwan with calling bases established in Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, Indonesia and Fiji. The amount of F$21 million (73m Yuan) was allegedly obtained from Chinese victims between 2010 and 2011 as a result of the scam. The scam came to light in November last year when a finance manager for an investment company in Suzhou, East China, reported to police that she had been cheated of F$3.7m (12.6m Yuan) through telephone fraud. The suspects, pretending to be staff Fifty per cent of workers earn below $10,000 and 71 per cent earn below $15,000 which is the tax threshold. The report said many consider that “the poor” in Fiji are only those on Family Assistance Program but these are the worst cases of poverty and make up only a small percentage of those 35 per cent plus of the population who are in poverty. The majority of the poor are the urban working poor those in full-time employment earning wages below the basic need poverty line, the rural working poor, those who do not qualify for Family Assistance Program but are seriously struggling like single mothers, elderly, those with disabilities and those who are temporarily out of work. Father Barr said poverty is a multifaceted problem with a variety of causes and a variety of possible solutions and there is no easy quick-fix solution. He also said there is a lot of evidence of poverty before their eyes and people need to try their best to come out of it. T o get the best value for your dollar Advertise in 604-909-4088 Toll Free: 1 866 840 2885 www.fijitimescanada.com Times Fiji News Friday June 1, 2012 19 The 2012 Crest Agriculture Show is set to be the biggest ever when the event is staged at Churchill Park in Lautoka from August 6 to 11. With the theme ‘Grow Me Fiji’, the one-week show will display various ministries, departments and the role they play as well as business houses, financial institutions and stakeholders of the agriculture sector. Crest Agriculture Show chairman and the Department of Agriculture permanent secretary Mason Smith said the Ministry of Primary Industries was all geared up for a hectic one-week with different activities planned for everyone. “Special days are set aside for different activities and members of the public are urged to come out in numbers,” Mr Smith said. ”The financial sector headed by the Reserve Bank of Fiji will provide Agriculture Show To Be Bigger And Better information on micro financing that will assist farmers grow their business; the health sector on NCDs; oratory contests by school children; tourism sector on the promotion of growing local produce and many more.” Crest Company has been awarded the naming rights for the show with a sponsorship of $40,000. Lautoka City Council also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Department of Agriculture for hosting this year's event. This agreement has prompted the council to give $25,000 in kind for the usage of its facilities. The event will end with an awards night for the Prime Minister's Crest Agriculture Farmer of the Year Award. Other awards will include Young Farmer of the Year, Woman in Agriculture Award and FSC Sugar Cane Farmer of the Year Award. Patients Neglected After Discharge From St Giles Elderly patients are increasingly being neglected after being discharged from Fiji's St Giles Hospital. This was revealed by senior nursing sister and training coordinator Mili Sorovakawalu at the Health Symposium in Suva. Sorovakawalu said the worst case is when children cannot accept their elderly parents after they are discharged. Ministry of Social Welfare, Women and Poverty Alleviation Permanent Secretary Govind Sami said for neglected children, the hospital can identify their next of kin for patients who are 18 and below. On that note, he said the matter can be disputed in the Family Court as stated in the Family Law Act. However, Sami said there is no law or policy that covers the rights of parents when they are neglected by their children. He said this will be a challenge for them and there will be a need to have one as there is an increase of elderly beggars in towns. To counter these challenges, Sami said there is a need for more institutional care to supplement family care and social security, employment and social protection for elderly. He said there is also need for retirement policies and pension coverage as most of the elderly are not on pension scheme. Sami said there is a potential for impoverishment among the elderly and their caregivers and an increasing demand for specialised health services related to degenerative disease and disability. He said elder abuse could possibly grow. In an effort to provide efficient and effective services to the disadvantaged and women in the communities, the Ministry of Social Welfare, Women and Poverty Alleviation has conducted a three days workshop to reflect on its achievements and reinforce strategies to address challenges. The workshop was organised for some 50 social welfare officers and women interest officers at the Centre for Appropriate Technology Development (CATD) in Nadave. It provided a platform for these officers to reflect on their achievements in their respective divisions and to device strategies to address gaps in terms of social welfare and women development services of the Government. During the official opening, Minister for Social Welfare, Women and Poverty Alleviation Dr Jiko Luveni emphasized on the need for consistent resource management and performance monitoring to ensure that deliverables outlined in the ministry’s Annual Corporate Plan (ACP) were achieved on time. “As mandated in Roadmap for Democracy, Sustainable SocioEconomic Development, Government’s major goal is to reduce poverty to a negligible level by 2015,” Dr Luveni said. “My ministry has an important role to achieve this overarching vision through advancing gender equality and empowerment of women, assisting the poorest of the poor through poverty Ministry Commits To Efficient Service Delivery alleviation programs, ensures social justice and protection of the rights of women and children in the country.” While the ministry was rewarded with the achievement award last year, she said the objective was for Fiji to set the benchmark in terms of social welfare services and women development in the Pacific. Dr Luveni also reminded the staff on the need to adhere to Public Service Commission Code of Conduct, Ethics and Values. “Government is committed to providing an accountable and transparent service as such all the social welfare clients have the right to enquire about their cases. The ministry will also participate in the 2012 Fiji Business Excellence Award and that will allow us to showcase our services to the private sectors as well,” the Minister said. She said her Ministry would be strengthening the public-private partnership approach to achieve Government’s deliverables. “A focus for this year is to strengthen the coordination and implementation of poverty reduction and women advancement programs with relevant stakeholders and also carry out assessment of the impacts of these programs,” Dr Luveni said. The workshop also provided an opportunity for social welfare officers to learn about handling customer complaints and ensuring on the implementation and sustainability of income generating projects. New Life For Bibi, A Heart Patient 2015 Begins Here: Fiji President His Excellency the President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau told members of the Flying Fijians to the Pacific Nations Cup (PNC) that the road to the 2015 Rugby World Cup begins with them. He made these comments as the national side presented its itatau at Government House. The side jets out of the country for Japan on Friday. The Head of State told the players to forget dismal performance at the 2011 Rugby World Cup where the national side bundled out of the tournament in the early rounds. “Forget about last year’s RWC,” HE Ratu Epeli said. “Your focus should now be on the next World Cup in England.” “Your coming here tells me that you are ready and the nation is looking forward to seeing you (team) play.” The Flying Fijians open their PNC campaign against Japan, which also kick – starts Fiji’s test match calendar before the team plays Scotland, Samoa and Tonga in the June test window. The match against Japan will also be the first match for the national side after the RWC 2011 and the President believes that the players will want to start the road to 2015 on a high note. “Your presence here today reveals that you’re ready to represent your country. “The nation’s blessing is with you and does us all proud. We will certainly be following reports of your performance,” Ratu Epeli said. “Fiji is a rugby crazy nation and you can be assured that everyone will be supporting you.” Operation Open Heart patient, Chand Bibi, front right, with members of the Australian Operation Open Heart surgery team at the CWM Hospital in Suva A WOMAN who was operated on last year by the Sydney Adventist Hospitals Operation Open Heart team says she was given a new life by the visiting surgeons. Chand Bibi, 51, of Nadi was at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital in Suva for a check-up by the surgeons. Ms Bibi says she has had heart problems since she was in Class Six and had been on medication after she was diagnosed with heart problems. After all those years, I came for a check-up when the team was in Suva last year and I was told that two valves in my heart were damaged. I had open heart surgery in November last year and the surgeons changed the two valves, which made me a normal person like others. I could not do the things I wanted to before the surgery but after the surgery last year, I’m able to drive, do my housework, walk up the stairs and even dance, she said. These visiting teams of surgeons have given me a new life after changing the two damaged valves in my heart and I’m very grateful to them, she added. 20 www.fijitimescanada.com Times World News Friday June 1, 2012 Obama Pledges No More Wars Unless ’Absolutely Necessary’ he wound down as president. “After a decade under the dark cloud of war, we can see the light of a new day on the horizon,” he said at Arlington National Cemetery, drawing applause when he noted the “milestone” of it being the first Memorial Day in nine years without Americans fighting and dying in Iraq. “As commander in chief, I can tell you that sending our troops into harm’s way is the most wrenching decision that I have to make,” Obama said shortly after laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. “I can promise you I will never do so unless it is absolutely necessary and that when we do, we must give our troops a clear mission and the full support of a grateful nation.” Later on Monday, Obama attended a ceremony at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta, introducing Obama at the Arlington military cemetery, said that 58,000 Americans died in the Vietnam War. More than 4,000 Americans died in Iraq from 2003 to 2011, and nearly 2,000 have died in Afghanistan from the war’s start in 2001 to date. Indian Kills Wife In Italy For Being 'Westernized' A 37-year-old Indian migrant in Italy killed his pregnant wife because she loved wearing western clothes and he wanted to punish her for going against Indian traditions The Indian -- whose name was given as Singhj Kulbir -- told police in Piacenza city in northern Italy that he strangled to death his 27-year-old wife -- named as Kaur Balwinde -- before throwing her corpse in the Po River, the AKI news agency reported. Investigators said Kulbir, who worked for an agricultural company, killed his wife to punish her for dressing like a Westerner against Indian traditions. Balwinde's body was found floating last Sunday in the Po River near Piacenza, a total of 153 days after she went missing. The mother of a five-year-old boy, Balwinde was three months pregnant, according to the PiacenzaSera news website. Another Italian news agency AGI said the accused killed his "excessively westernized" young Indian wife because he feared he would lose her. The woman's father reported her disappearance May 1. Her husband told the military police that he was sure she had left home because she wanted to leave him. Kulbir, however, has no criminal record. He confessed when his wife's body was found on the river bank near S.Nazzaro di Monticelli D'Ongina. The body was spotted by two girls walking in the area. The AGI report said Balwinde lived for about 10 years with her husband in Baselico Duce village, on a farm where the man looked after the cattle. She was a housewife and occasionally did domestic jobs and was known and liked by other mothers with children attending the local kindergarten. The other women had organised a search party when she disappeared. Her husband too led a normal, quiet life and was seen taking their little boy to school. The woman's family has lived in Tuscany for around 20 years. U.S. President Barack Obama delivers remarks at the Memorial Day observance at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia President Barack Obama honored veterans on Monday by noting “the light of a new day” of having U.S. troops home from Iraq and returning soon from Afghanistan, while promising not to send soldiers back to war without a clear need. Obama did not mention tension with Iran and Syria in his remarks to veterans and military families at a hot, sunny Memorial Day ceremony, focusing instead on the wars started by his predecessor, George W. Bush, that A large fire swept through one of Qatar's fanciest shopping malls on Monday, killing thirteen young children and several teachers, government officials said. Children from Spain, France, New Zealand and other countries are among those killed. The fire broke out at around 11 a.m. local operation was launched. time at the Villaggio Mall in Doha, the The thick smoke and high temperatures capital of Qatar. Witnesses said the fire inside the mall made it difficult for may have started at the Nike store or firefighters to access the nursery, the Go Sport shop, but Qatar's interior forcing them to access the nursery ministry only confirmed that the fire through the roof of the mall. "Then had started somewhere between Gates firefighters accessed the place of 3 and 4 at the complex. children through the ceiling of the Health Minister Abullah Khalid Al- mall and rescue personnel spent great Qahtani confirmed nineteen people and painstaking efforts in order to save were killed in the blaze, including the children and staffers trapped in the thirteen young children, four adult nursery, as a result, two men from the teachers and two civil defense Civil Defense were martyred while personnel. Seventeen others were they were carrying out their noble injured, including four children and a mission," the interior ministry said in number of civil defense personnel. a statement. Interior Minister Abdullah bin Nasser Al Thani said rescue workers searched bin Khalifa Al Thani said authorities the mall several times to confirm no received the first call at 11:03 a.m. local one else was left trapped inside the time, and police officers as well as a building, which did not have clear civil defense team arrived at the scene floor plans. Witnesses said emergency within approximately two minutes. The exits were not visible and most of first ambulances arrived within eight the sprinklers did not work due to an minutes after the fire was reported. apparent malfunction. But responding firefighters were not Among those killed were four Spanish made aware that there was a nursery children, a three-year-old French child, inside the complex, and rescue workers and New Zealand triplets, according instead focused on extinguishing the to officials in those countries. There fire. Authorities received another were also media reports that some of emergency call at 11:34 a.m. explaining the other children were from Japan, the that about 20 children were trapped Philippines and Benin, but those reports in the nursery, after which a rescue could not immediately be verified. Fire Sweeps Through Qatar Shopping Mall, Killing 19 Filipino Maid Sentenced To Death For Drug Trafficking A Malaysian high court sentenced a Filipino maid to death by hanging after she was found guilty of trafficking cocaine, state-run media reported. A Malaysian man has also been sentenced to death for an unrelated murder. The maid, identified only as 45-yearold Eliza Sans Gabrier from the Philippines, was arrested on the morning of August 28, 2009 at the Puduraya Bus Terminal in Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia. She was found to be in possession of 1.1 kilogram (2.4 pounds) of cocaine. In his judgement, Judge Datuk Mohd Sofian Abdul Razak said the defense denied the charge but gave no evidence to support this, according to the Bernama state-run news agency. Gabrier did not respond when the judge sentenced her to die by hanging, but she briefly covered her eyes with a white towel. Also on Monday, Justice Datuk Su Geok Yiam sentenced 23-year-old V. Raja to death by hanging for murdering a man in a Kuala Lumpur suburb during the early morning hours of August 24, 2009. Raja was convicted of stabbing the 45-year-old victim, believed to be a transvestite, after which he fell into a retention pond and died. It is unknown how many executions are carried out in Malaysia each year, as the government considers this to be classified information. Amnesty International said in a recent report that it was able to confirm that at least one execution was carried out in 2011, but indications are that other people were also executed. In addition, at least 108 new death sentences were imposed in Malaysia last year. Some two-thirds of the death sentences were imposed for drugrelated offences and one third of these involved foreign nationals. Home Minister Hishammuddin Hussein confirmed last year that 441 people were executed between 1960 and April 2011, when 696 people were on death row. To get the best value for your dollar Advertise in 604-909-4088 Toll Free: 1 866 840 2885 www.fijitimescanada.com Times World News Friday June 1, 2012 21 A drunk, pregnant woman was arrested in Houston in the US after she left her one-year-old child in her car while she tried to get a piercing. The unnamed woman, who is seven months pregnant, drove to a tattoo parlor in the north of the city and asked the artist how long it would take because her baby was waiting in the car, as reported. Staff called police and kicked her out of the parlor and an employee followed her out, where she passed out with the front door of her car wide open. The employee told the TV station, "I knew she was stumbling. I knew she was on something. I don't assume anything and that's why I turned her down." Cops found beer bottles inside a nappy bag. The child was unhurt. The woman faces multiple charges including child endangerment and felony DUI. Drunk, Pregnant Mum Arrested After Leaving Baby In Car 4,000-Year-Old Tomb Found In Egypt Archaeologists have discovered a 4,000-year-old tomb in Egypt that contains a sarcophagus inscribed with ancient funeral texts as well as ritual objects. "It is the first time in many years that such a well-preserved tomb has been unearthed," said Muhammad Ibrahim, Egypt's archaeological treasures minister. The tomb dates from ancient Egypt's First Intermediate period (2181-2055 B.C.) and is an unusual find, as very little archaeological evidence survives from this period. Ritual objects made from alabaster copper, terracotta and other materials were found in the tomb in Deir alBarsha area in al-Minya province, around 250 km from Cairo. The dig was coordinated by the Catholic University of Louvain in Belgium. Former US ambassador to the United Nations John Bolton has said that American voters agree with Barack Obama’s claim that he inherited ‘a mess’ from George W Bush. Bolton said it would not be helpful for the Republicans to defend the former president's record. Bolton urged Republican contender Mitt Romney to focus on the future and resist arguing over whether their last president left behind ‘a big mess or a little mess’. “I think people would agree with Obama that he was left with a mess,” The Telegraph quoted Bolton, as saying. “They’re not arguing about that, and that’s why it doesn’t pay for Romney 'Voters Agree Obama Inherited Mess From Bush' to argue whether it was a big mess or a little mess,” he added. Bolton said, when faced with the prospect of re-electing Obama, ‘people are saying OK, you inherited a mess, well what have you done to fix it?’ According to the paper, Bolton’s remarks came as Bush prepared to return to the White House for only the second time since leaving office in January 2009, for the unveiling of his official portrait. Obama has in recent weeks blamed his predecessor for bestowing the current administration with what he now claims were too many problems in foreign and economic policies to deal with in a single term. A SUBURBAN Philadelphia man in the US pleaded guilty to a child endangerment charge after abandoning his 16-year-old daughter over a poor grade. Tuan Huynh, 47, was sentenced to two years of probation and 100 hours of community service in connection with the February 22 event. After the unnamed girl received a bad calculus grade, authorities said Huynh, of Lower Gwynedd, drove her 13 miles (21km) away from home and left her near a shopping mall. Assistant District Attorney Cara McMenamin told Montgomery County Court, "She was devastated. She wandered quite a ways looking for help. Fortunately, she encountered a minister who stayed with her and called police." The prosecutor called Huynh's actions "unconscionable and outrageous". As a condition of his bail, Huynh had been banned from living in the family home. Judge Garrett D Page ordered Huynh to attending parenting classes "prior to moving back into residence," the report added. Man Dumps Daughter At Shops After Bad Grade Police are looking for a gunman who killed two people and seriously wounded three others when he opened fire inside a Seattle cafe. The armed man was seen running a nearby hospital. One person was northbound away from Cafe Racer, described as having "life threatening just north of Seattle's busy University injuries". District, the Seattle Police Department The suspect was described as a white said. man between the ages of 30 and 40 Police said two male victims were shot with brown hair and goatee. He was dead and three additional victims, two wearing a dark shirt, Seattle police men and one woman, were rushed to said. Two Killed When Gunman Opens Fire Inside Cafe Hubby Cuts Off Wife's Lips, Eats Them An Iranian living in Sweden, suspecting his wife of having an extra-marital affair, chopped off her lips with a knife and ate them. He has been arrested and faces trial. The 52-year-old man had worked as an associate professor and done post-doctoral research in 2010 at a prestigious Swedish medical institute in Stockholm, as reported. Subsequently, he was employed by a university in Tehran but he continued to live partly in Stockholm, where he collaborated with his old research group at the university According to Sweden's Aftonbladet newspaper, the man flew into a jealous rage over suspicions that his much younger wife was having an affair. During a closed court hearing, he admitted to having cut off her lips in a fit of rage. U.S.'s First Lady Michelle Obama has maintained high favorability among Americans, making her more popular than President Barack Obama, a new poll has found. According to a Gallup poll, 66 percent Democrats, while among Republicans, view Michelle favorably, compared to 38 percent approve of Michelle Obama, her husband Barack Obama, who got a while 14 percent approve of Barack 52 percent rating. Obama. Michelle's favorability is the same as it The poll also put Michelle Obama's was when it was last measured in mid- favorability rating in line with former 2010, but down slightly from her peak first lady and current Secretary of State of 72 percent favorability after Obama's Hillary Clinton, who also has a 66 inauguration in 2009, Politico reports. percent favorability rating. According to the results, there The Gallup Poll was conducted May was also a partisan divide over the 10-13 with a sample of 1,012 adults Obamas' favorability ratings, with both and a margin of error of plus or minus receiving 90 percent favorability from 4 percentage points. To get the best value for your dollar Advertise in US' First Lady Still Way More Popular Than Hubby, Finds Poll A Chinese migrant worker has been sentenced to three years in jail for acceding to his paralysed mother's request for mercy killing. Deng Mingjian, 41, was sentenced to three years in jail with a reprieve period of four years for intentional homicide, the Panyu District People's Court ruling said. Deng purchased two bottles of pesticide on May 16, 2011 at the request of his mother Li Shulan, 73, who suffered from hemiplegia for 20 years, the Man Jailed For 3 Yrs For Mercy Killing Of Mother 604-909-4088 Toll Free: 1 866 840 2885 Read the Fiji Times Canada online www.fijitimescanada.com ruling said. She died the same day just minutes after drinking the pesticide, state-run Xinhua news agency reported. Deng was described as a "filial son" and was said to have taken care of his mother for decades. Several of his neighbours and relatives asked the court to give him a lenient sentence for this reason. The court considered Deng's guilty plea and the appeals of the public in making its ruling 22 www.fijitimescanada.com Times Canada News Friday June 1, 2012 Canada Ranked 18th Out Of 35 In Child Poverty Report Child poverty in Canada is more prevalent than the overall national poverty rate, according to a new report that ranks 18th among 35 industrialized nations when it comes to the gap between the two figures. The country falls even further behind when it comes to the number of children who are actually considered poor, the report released by UNICEF Canada found. The "Measuring Child Poverty" report ranked Canada 18th for countries with a higher child poverty rate than its overall rate and 24th in terms of the number of children actually growing up poor. The child poverty rate in Canada is 13.3 per cent in contrast to the country's overall poverty rate of 11.4 per cent, the study found. The report, released Tuesday, said about 30 million children in the 35 countries studied are poor. "We know we can do a better," UNICEF executive director David Morley said. Morley said improving Canada's child tax benefit would go a long way in dealing with income disparity for poor families. But it's also critical that a child commissioner's position be created so that governments are reminded of the problem every time they consider their budgets or policies, he said. Morley said such a commissioner would give governments the ability for "looking at the budget through the eyes of children." Municipalities can also play a major role in improving the lives of poor children by raising their lifestyle standards through good libraries, playgrounds and ensuring their bylaws take the needs of children into consideration. They can also make sure recreation opportunities are available for kids who otherwise couldn't afford them. "It's an important part of child development," Morley said. Canada also lacks official definition poverty, he added, which makes it difficult to understand the severity of the problem. He credited various levels of government for getting the country's child poverty level below that of the United States, but said a lot more can be done. The report found Nordic countries and the Netherlands had the lowest child poverty rates, while Japan, the United States as well as southern and eastern European countries had some of the highest. Child poverty rates by nation varied in the report from five per cent in Iceland to 25 per cent in Romania. Ten of the 35 countries measured had lower child poverty rates than their overall poverty level, including Australia, Japan and Germany. In Canada, children in Quebec and Manitoba fared better in the report, partly because these provinces have more effective early childhood education programs, Morley said. Ontario is also moving forward in addressing early childhood education through policies such as full-day kindergarten. Morley said Canada needs to establish a national poverty reduction strategy that includes a focus on children. The report based its findings on what it termed a "child deprivation index" that includes items like clothing, books and the ability to participate in school trips and birthdays. Relative child poverty is defined in the study as living in a household in which disposable income is less than 50 per cent of the national median net income of $63,800, based on 2009 figures. Ottawa Pledges $1.1M To Counter-Terrorism Research The federal government is devoting $1.1 million to terrorism-related research, the first round of funding in a five-year commitment made to honour Air India bombing victims. Public Safety Minister Vic Toews announced the initial investment at a news conference in Ottawa alongside Immigration Minister Jason Kenney on Wednesday. "Threats evolve, and we must strive to improve our knowledge and understanding to more effectively address these threats," said Minister Toews. Nearly a year ago, the Canadian government pledged to invest $10 million over five years on research into terrorism and counter-terrorism. The initiative was launched to mark the 26th anniversary of the day Air India Flight 182 was bombed, killing 329 people -- most of whom were Canadian. At the news conference, Toews said it was important to build a "base of understanding" to detect and respond to the threat of violent extremism. Part of the Kanishka Project, named for the plane involved in the Air India tragedy, involves building a network of scholars to research terrorism in a Canadian context. Academics with terrorism-related research proposals have been invited to apply for funding. Ottawa is in the midst of reviewing a second round of proposals, and in the meantime, has released details about the first round of winning pitches. The successful proposals include: A joint project from the University of Toronto and Ryerson University that aims to understand how communities can "foster positive social integration." (To receive: $145,000 over three years) A study on "imported conflicts between and among ethno-cultural communities in Canada" by the Mosaic Institute, a Toronto-based think tank. (To receive: $350,000 over two years) A Carleton University study on the structure of terrorist groups and attempts to use or acquire various types of weapons. (To receive $60,000 over two years) Laval University plans to continue a summer study program related to terrorism issues. Funds from Public Safety Canada will be used to expand the program. (To receive: a one-time contribution of $10,000) A project by the Association of Canadian Studies devoted to measuring Canadians' awareness and knowledge of issues related to terrorism. (To receive: $115,000 over two years) A third call for research proposals is scheduled to close on October 31, 2012. Canada Severed Limbs Suspect Named As Luka Rocco Magnotta Canadian police are searching for a man wanted in connection with two packages of human limbs in Ottawa and a headless torso in Montreal. Luka Rocco Magnotta, 29, has been named as a suspect by the Montreal police, who have taken over the case. A blood-soaked package containing a human foot was delivered to the offices of Prime Minister Stephen Harper's Conservative Party on Tuesday. The second package, containing a hand, was found by police on Tuesday night. That parcel was addressed to the Ottawa office of the Liberal Party, Canadian media reports. Montreal police told the reporter that they believe the torso and the limbs are from the same body, but are waiting for test results to confirm this. Mr Magnotta worked as a porn actor, an official close to the investigation told the reporter. 'Number one suspect' In a statement, Montreal police said their investigation had led them to an apartment close to where the torso was found in a pile of rubbish. The apartment was searched while a forensics team was asked to analyze "elements of the scene", according to a police statement. Montreal police said that the apartment belongs to Mr Magnotta. The Montreal Gazette reported that a mattress inside was "stained with blood". Investigators also believe they have a video of crime, Canadian media report. Mr Magnotta has not been arrested and is wanted under a Canada-wide warrant. He is also known as Eric Clinton Newman and Vladimir Romanov. "He is our number one suspect," Commander Ian Lafreniere of the Montreal police told reporters. "The suspect and victim knew each other." Flagging Association feels it's getting the run-around from government Flaggers are fired up after they say nothing has been done to enforce double fines for speeders in construction zones. Flaggers Angry Double Fines For Speeders Aren't Being Enforced They've been asking for a meeting with Justice Minister Shirley Bond, trying to get the province to put a law in place. Tammy Sampson with the BC Flagging Association says double fines have been advertised on signs and online. So, she wants to know what's taking so long. "We are requesting a review so that local law enforcement can issue a fine and hopefully that will create better awareness for BC drivers," explains Sampson. She feels they are getting the runaround and if they don't see action soon, she says rallies may be in their future. Read the Fiji Times Canada online www.fijitimescanada.com Luka Rocco Magnotta has two aliases www.fijitimescanada.com Times Canada News Friday June 1, 2012 23 Premier Announces Date For Family Day Transit Police Getting Paid Without Putting In The Hours Canadian Taxpayers Federation says it works out to $5,000 per officer Over $800,000 a year -- that's how much the Canadian Taxpayers Federation says Transit Police are getting paid for hours they aren't working. Jordan Bateman with the Federation is taking a week-long look at the results of a TransLink audit and his organization's Freedom of Information requests. He claims TransLink staff have the option of working extra time each day, and then receiving a day off in lieu. "What's happening with the Transit Police, according to the audit, is that they get the benefit of the short work week, i.e. they get paid for work they aren't working but they aren't actually working anything extra," explains Bateman. "I can't believe this is something that hasn't been ironed out in previous contract negotiations," he adds. "I know the Transit Police contract is up now and definitely this should be looked at as a possible cost reduction. There's no way we should be paying people for not working." Bateman says it works out to about $5,000 per Transit Police officer or over 11 shifts a year where they get paid without putting in the hours. He says this extra money, plus getting paid more to work on Sundays and high overtime rates, ends up being $2.4 million or 10 per cent of the total Transit Police budget. Premier Christy Clark, along with Margaret MacDiarmid, Minister of Labour, Citizens' Services and Open Government were joined by local families at the Vancouver Aquarium Monday to announce that B.C.'s Family Day will take place on the second Monday in February each year, beginning in 2013. "Creating a Family Day in B.C. was an important priority for me. Today, my government is following through on that commitment and I am proud and delighted to let families across B.C. know that our very first Family Day will be on Monday, Feb. 11, 2013," said Premier Christy Clark. "Having our own unique day in B.C. creates distinctive opportunities for families and local businesses. British Columbians will be able to enjoy all kinds of local attractions with fewer lineups and less out-of-town traffic." The decision to select the second Monday in February comes after government followed through on a commitment to consult with the public and private sectors, as well as hear from citizens directly. "We heard a lot of thoughtful points of view from British Columbians about which day they'd prefer. The response we had from the public was outstanding - it's great to see people know we want to hear from them, and that we're listening," said MacDiarmid. Record numbers of British Columbians participated in online discussions by sharing their thoughts and registering their preference. The web poll component of the Family Day website gathered a total of 31,146 selections, along with 3,069 comments, with the choice of the second Monday registering a total of 18,202 selections, 9,436 selections for the third Monday, and 3,508 selections of no preference. "The B.C. ski industry would like to thank the provincial government for how it has managed the Family Day consultation. We are very pleased with the outcome and we are confident that this decision will drive significant benefits for the tourism industry, the provincial economy and the people of British Columbia," said David Lynn, president and CEO, Canada's West Ski Areas Association. "The announcement of Family Day is recognition of the diversity and hard work of families across the province. As an organization that supports families, the B.C. Association of Family Resource Programs applauds the provincial government for making this decision, which we believe will fortify family connections and build community," said Sherry Sinclair, senior board member of the B.C. Association of Family Resource Programs. Caesars Looks Into Toronto Casino Hail Caesars — another high profile Las Vegas casino is knocking on Toronto City Hall’s door. Jan Jones, an executive vice-president Caesars Entertainment Corp., confirmed the gambling giant is “most definitely” interested in a Toronto casino. Caesars representatives will be visiting the city next week to get the lay of the land. “We believe we could present a project that would benefit the city, that would grow tourism and that would be a part of the business community, not come in and try to replace (businesses),” Jones said Tuesday. The city’s lobbyist registry shows Caesars Entertainment Corp. — which operates 52 casinos on five continents — has registered four lobbyists, including former councilor Paul Sutherland, to promote the company’s interest in “economic development” and Exhibition Place and “waterfront revitalization”. Earlier this month, Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation officials announced interested firms will have until mid-summer to express their interest in a GTA casino. City bureaucrats are now studying the pros and cons of putting a casino in Toronto. Caesars is keeping an open mind about what could be built. “I’ve heard there is some talk of a waterfront resort and there are others who would like to look at other locations,” Jones said. “I’d just sort of like to come in and meet the community, understand what they would really like to see as a resort destination partner.” She predicted any investment by Caesars in Toronto would be well over $1 billion. Caesars is the latest company to hire lobbyists to help make the case for a Toronto casino with city council. Lobbyists representing MGM Resorts International have already met with Mayor Rob Ford and several councilors. Councillor Doug Ford wasn’t surprised to hear Caesars had lobbyists registered with the city. “You say we’ve struck gold and all of a sudden you’ll have every gold miner in North America come,” Ford said. Casino critic Councillor Adam Vaughan stressed he believes the OLG wants to put “slot machines in every neighbourhood in the city.” “It’s not just about a big destination casino; it is about turning every bingo parlour, every hotel lobby ... they’re talking about turning Toronto into Atlantic City North,” he said. The province of Alberta is planning to sue tobacco manufacturers to recover $10 billion in health care costs. "This lawsuit, to be clear, is not about banning cigarettes or punishing smokers," Premier Alison Redford said on Wednesday. "It is about recovering health care costs as a result of the misconduct of the tobacco industry." Health Minister Fred Horne said that 3,000 Albertans die each year from tobacco-caused diseases. Alberta To Sue Tobacco Companies For $10B "The $10 billion is an estimate of the incurred costs of dealing with tobacco use dating back to the 1950s, in fact," Horne said. "So it’s based on an assessment of the incidents of a number of health effects of tobacco since that time." New Brunswick, B.C., Ontario and Newfoundland and Labrador have also launched legal action against tobacco companies. Five other Canadian provinces are expected to follow suit. 24 www.fijitimescanada.com Times Canada News Friday June 1, 2012 It's getting more difficult to pay for the costs of owning a home in Canada and the situation will likely worsen, the Royal Bank of Canada says. The RBC said Tuesday rising house prices were responsible for a modest deterioration in home affordability in the first few months of 2012 after two quarterly improvements, but warns that rising interest rates are the more pressing concern long-term. "It became a little tougher on household budgets to carry the costs of owning a home at market prices at the start of this year," said Craig Wright, RBC's chief economist said in a statement. "Strong buyer demand was a principal driver of the modest rise in home ownership costs. While the deterioration in affordability was felt to varying degrees across the country, it was mild in most cases." RBC's affordability index for a detached bungalow stood at 43.1 per cent of income nationally in the first quarter, up 0.8 percentage points from the fourth quarter of 2011 and up 1.5 percentage points from the first quarter of 2011. That figure assumes an average home price of $360,500 for a 1,200 square foot, one-storey house and $77,900 in annual qualifying income. Based on those figures, an owner would need to spend 43.1 per cent of annual income to pay for mortgage payments, utilities and property taxes. The deterioration of affordability — the proportion of pre-tax income required to service the costs of owning a home — was most acute in Vancouver, where the costs associated with owning a detached bungalow at market prices rose 3.1 points to 88.9 per cent of annual income. There was a similar trend in Toronto, Montreal and Ottawa but the bank's affordability index was unchanged in Calgary and improved in Edmonton compared with the fourth quarter of 2011. In Vancouver, which is Canada's most expensive real-estate market, RBC assumes an owner would need $155,900 of annual income to make mortgage payments on a bungalow priced at $832,600. Based on those figures, the owners would have to direct $8.89 of every ten dollars earned each year towards Housing Affordability Getting Worse Detached home eats up 43% of income mortgage payments, utility costs and property taxes. In Toronto, the index deteriorated by 1.2 percentage points to 53.4 per cent based on $110,000 in annual income; in Montreal, the cost of ownership increased 1.2 percentage points to 41.4 per cent of income at $64,100 and in Ottawa it was up 0.9 per cent to 41.8 per cent of income at $88,800. In Calgary, by contrast, only about 36.7 per cent of pre-tax income would be required to pay for a standard bungalow — unchanged from the previous study — and in Edmonton the index improved by 0.4 percentage point to 32.4 per cent. Qualifying income was also lower in the two Alberta cities than in Vancouver, Toronto or Ottawa, at $87,000 in Calgary and $73,000 in Edmonton. Wright said the affordability challenge will likely increase once the Bank of Canada begins raising interest rates. "Exceptionally low interest rates have been the key force in keeping affordability from hitting dangerous levels in Canada in recent years," Wright said. "Affordability headwinds are likely to increase next year, as interest rates make their way towards more normal levels." He said RBC expects Canada's central bank will hike rates gradually, starting in the fourth quarter. "A gradual pace of increases will allow income growth to provide some offset," he said. However, there have been persistent warnings from the Bank of Canada, federal government and many economists that Canadian household debt levels are precariously high. There have also been concerns that prices for certain types of homes and certain local markets — condominium apartments in Vancouver and Toronto, in particular — have risen too quickly to be sustainable. RBC's localized affordability measures are adjusted to reflect the different cost of real-estate and the amount of income that a buyer would need to qualify for a typical mortgage that would fix interest rates for five years. In Toronto, the country's second-most expensive real-estate market, a buyer would require $110,000 of annual income to afford a bungalow, $129,800 a year to afford a two-storey house and $71,200 to afford a condo. Washington State to phase in liquor privatization on June 1 It could soon cost you more to bring back a bottle of booze from south of the border. Liquor privatization will be phased into Washington State on June 1. The Washington State Liquor Control Board says its state price mark-up has been replaced by a distribution and retail price increase. The board's Brian Smith says other new fees could also be added. "Depends on your buying power. That's one of the things the initiative does and so, if you're one of the strongest Booze South Of The Border Could Soon Cost You More retailers out there and you can get volume discounts, you're likely to see smaller increase," notes Smith. Under the state-run system, a bottle of liquor was the same price for everyone, regardless of location. But under the new rules, some customers could be charged more if it takes longer to deliver the product. The mark-up could be anywhere from a five to 30 per cent increase. "Say you pay $15.95. It depends on where you shop, you might be paying $20 or more," Smith adds. The privatization means Walmart and Costco will also be stocking hard liquor Record Number Of Seniors In Canada: Census There are nearly five million seniors in Canada - a record high number of a rapidly growing segment of the population expected to put increasing pressure on the economy and social programs countrywide. Statistics Canada released the age and sex results of its 2011 census data Tuesday, which paint a portrait of a shifting balance between the young and the old, with the 65-and-over set now making up 14.8% of the population. That's up from 13.7% in 2006, the last time the data agency surveyed the country. Canada's fastest growing age group is those between 60 and 64, part of the aging baby boomer generation that makes up 27% of the total population. As the graying population leaves the workforce, they will shift demands to pay for key programs like pensions and health care and onto a smaller group of younger working Canadians. Johanne Denis, a director with the Statistics Canada demography division, said one of the most striking findings from the census data is that two out of five workers are between 45 and 64 years old — a high-earning, tax-paying segment now nearing retirement. "This is a very important result. This shows the aging of the working population," she said. The majority of Canadians are workingage — between 15 and 64 — and for the first time in our history, there will only be one person coming into the workforce for each person retiring. As recently as 1981, there were over two workers starting a career for each retiree. The demographic shift has long been on the radar of governments worldwide and, like all developed countries, Canada looking for ways to cope with the coming wave of grey. While Canada has an advantage over many of its G8 partners — only the U.S. and Russia have younger populations, and only Russia has a larger workingage population — the Conservative government is taking steps to address the problem. Last year, the feds announced they would bump the age of eligibility for old age security from 65 to 67 in a bid to ensure the program is sustainable down the road. By 2031, seniors are projected to make up almost a quarter of the population. In the last five years, Canada also experienced a mini baby boom, with the population of children aged four and under jumping by 11, the highest increase in 50 years. Statistics Canada will release the next set of data from the 2011 census, on families and households, in September. Maple Ridge Man Enters Guilty Plea In Stanley Cup Riot Another guilty plea has been entered by a suspected Stanley Cup rioter. Vancouver Police say a 20-year old Maple Ridge man has pleaded guilty to taking part in the June 2011 smashup. Meanwhile, police have recommended 19 new charges against seven more accused rioters. Three of them are underage. So far, only one person has been sentenced for their part in the Stanley Cup Riot. Ryan Dickinson was given 17 months in jail. www.fijitimescanada.com Friday June 1, 2012 25 Canada’s Leading Psychic Healer Will succeed where other have failed. Will tell you your enemy by name. This god gifted healer will help and advice you on all of life’s many problems. Removes black magic (Kala jadoo) negative influences and bad luck. Over 20 years o Palm, Tarot Card and Psychic Readings, em to Crystal Ball, Dream Interpretation. probl ll No a or sm Restores success and happiness back into your life big Spiritual Healer, Reader & Advisor Most Problems Solved in 24 Hours Tells Past, Present & Future All R ings Priv ate Con & fide ntia l ead Helps in Love/Marriage • Business/Finance • House/Business Blessings Jealousy/Lost Love • Health/Depression • Court Case/Immigration Alcohol/Drug Addictions • Specializing in R in Reuniting Loved Ones Specializing experience 778-868-3162 72 hours guaranteed results - Call today for a better tomorrow Free Consultation By Appointment only 10am-9pm open 7 days a week 26 www.fijitimescanada.com Friday June 1, 2012 THINKING OF BECOMING A CANADIAN CITIZEN? Try This Practice Test - Discover Canada A. From sea to sea. B. From land to sea. C. From land to land. D. From coast to coast. 7) What unique art form was developed by First Nations people on the West Coast? A. Paintings. B. Kayaks. C. Sculptures. D. Totem poles. 8) What does a Member of Parliament do? A. He or she works for the Governor General. B. He or she links Canadians to the federal government. C. He or she liaises with the municipal government. D. He or she represents the Queen. 9) What does Register of Electors contain? A. List of Canadian citizens less than 18 years old who are qualified to vote in federal elections and referendums. B. List of all Canadian citizens who 3) How are Members of Parliament chosen? A. Appointed by Governor of each province. B. Elected by the Provincial Parliament. C. Appointed by the Prime Minister. D. Elected by Canadian citizens. 4) Who has the right to vote in a federal election? A. A Canadian citizen, at least 21 years old and must work for the government. B. A Canadian or British citizen, over 18 years old. C. A landed immigrant, 18 years old and a member of the Canadian Forces. D. A Canadian citizen, at least 18 years old on voting day and on the voters' list. 5) When is Canada Day? A. September 6th of each year. B. July 1st every year. C. The second Monday of July. D. The third Monday of May. 6) What is meaning of the Canadian coat of arms and motto: "A Mari Usque Ad Mare"? are qualified to vote in federal elections and referendums. C. List of Canadian citizens of more than 18 years who are qualified to vote in federal elections and referendums. D. Personal information of voters which is given to each political party. 10) What does voting by secret ballot mean? A. No one can watch you vote or look at your marked ballot. B. No one can watch you vote except the election officer. C. The voter should not tell anyone for whom he/she voted. D. Only the candidate you vote for can watch your marked ballot. ANSWERS 1.C 6.A 2.C 7.D 3.D 8.B 4.D 9.B 5.B 10.A 1) What are the first two lines of Canada's national anthem? A. O Canada! We stand on guard for thee. B. O Canada! From far and wide, O Canada, We stand on guard for thee. C. O Canada! Our home and native land! True patriot love in all thy sons command. D. O Canadian! Our home and private land! True love in all thy sons command. 2) Which province is known as the "Land of 100,000 Lakes"? A. Quebec. B. Alberta. C. Manitoba. D. Ontario. I have recently been the victim of a downsizing. It’s been difficult to mentally deal with it, since I’ve been at the same company for more than 15 years and I haven’t looked for a job in 20 years. The last job I got, I didn’t even have to find—it found me. Someone I know recommended me and I interviewed and got the job. I was a good worker at my last job but the company lost so much business due to the downturn in the economy, they had to let our whole department go. I will get a good recommendation (my boss told me) so I’m not worried about that, at least. So now I am facing a job hunting situation and I’m pretty rusty about the whole process. Can you give me some pointers to get me started? Answer: You are going to need a resume that sells you—not just a resume that lists your jobs and responsibilities. And you will also need to do some aggressive networking. Your first task is to write a resume that positions you as a results-oriented candidate, with a successful track record. This is not the time to be modest. Think in terms of “CAR stories.” CAR stands for Challenge, Approach, and Results. For each responsibility you had in past jobs, ask yourself, what challenges you faced, how you approached that challenge and what your results were. Here is an example: “Changed sales support from an outdated reliance on email and phone, to an intranet-based system. Distributors credited this change with 10 percent increased sales during the first six months in operation, due to more immediate product information and faster response to input and inquiries.” The CAR story can be in any order, but you must always include the R=Results. (Contrast the CAR story format with the typical responsibilities statement: “Implemented a web-based intranet communications tool.” No comparison.) You will likely have to do some editing, since you have many years of experience. The trick is to have lots of CAR stories to choose from and mix and match them to fit the jobs to which you are applying, and get in all on two pages. Yes, that does mean you should customize. One-sizefits-all resumes don’t lead to as many interviews as tailored resumes. You can take the same CAR story and emphasize different components, to better match the job requirements in the position. So, if you find a good job posting online, for example, study the Are Your Job Hunting Skills Rusty? three or four main criteria and select the CAR story that best illustrates how you match what they want. Let’s say they are looking for someone with team leader experience. In the CAR story I used above, you could tweak it to emphasize how you worked with a team to get those results. Example: “Lead a cross-functional team challenged with developing an intranetbased sales support system. Despite initial resistance, the team successfully launched the distributor’s sales support system, under budget and on deadline.” Once you have the resume finished – or even 80 percent finished—it’s time to take it on the road. Call and email your colleagues, friends, vendors and suppliers from your former job, former managers…anyone who can give you their opinion about it. Ask them to be honest when they evaluate it. This achieves several purposes. Not only are you getting great advice on how to market yourself; you are starting the networking process. People will become vested in your job hunt if you ask their opinions and advice. Ask who you should be meeting with and what online sites would be best for building your network and searching for jobs. Ask them to refer you to people they know for more advice and input. Don’t ever ask anyone in your network,” Do you have a job?” You don’t want to pressure them and all they will do is back off. If your resume is filled with CAR stories, and you talk about your CAR stories in your informational interviews, people will want to help you by introducing you to even more people. Most people still find jobs through people who introduce them to other people—not by sitting home surfing the net and sending out resumes. If you find the idea of “networking” daunting, just think of it as starting with the people who know you and building out in concentric circles from them. There are probably Six Degrees of Separation between your closest associates and your next employer. Aleem Kamal , is the President of Arza Employment Services Ltd For more information on this topic please contact employment@alameen Canadian Immigration Canadian immigration is the set of rules, regulations, directives, policies and the Act of Parliament that regulates the entry of each person in to Canada. Immigration, the entrance of people into a country for the purpose of settling there, has always played a central role in Canadian history. It was as much a feature of ancient times, when the ancestors of Canada's native peoples migrated from Asia by land via Beringia or by sea via the Japanese current, as it is of the present day, when immigrants from around the world come to this country in the thousands. Over the period of time, the complexity of Canadian immigration has attracted Canadian immigration lawyers to develop practice in the area of Canadian immigration law. Primarily, Canadian immigration lawyers assisted families in Canada to sponsor their family members abroad, assisted Canadian businessmen to recruit foreign workers and also represented those people who were subject to deportation order from Canada. The Canadian immigration department has developed very systematic immigration criteria to recruit economic class immigrants, which includes skilled worker, and business class immigrants in to Canada. The present Canadian Immigration and Citizenship department, also known as CIC Canada, is the most important department of the Canadian government. In order to apply for Canadian immigration, the applicant is required to make the application using the prescribed immigration application forms. The Canadian Citizenship and Immigration Canada also maintains statistics of the number of immigrants entering Canada, number of applications approved, the kind of people entering Canada and such other data. www.fijitimescanada.com Times Lifestyle Friday June 1, 2012 27 Fruits And Vegetables Fruit and vegetables are low in energy and packed with vitamins, minerals, protective plant compounds and fiber, so they're a great source of nutrients and vital for a healthy diet 1. One piece of medium-sized fruit, such as an apple, peach, banana or orange 2. One slice of fruit, such as melon, mango or pineapple 3. One handful of grapes or two handfuls of cherries or berry fruits 4. One tablespoon of dried fruit 5. A glass (roughly 100ml) of fruit or vegetable juice 6. A small tin (roughly 200g) of fruit 7. 3 tablespoons of fruit salad or stewed fruit 8. A side salad 9. A serving (roughly 80g) of vegetables, such as frozen or mushy peas, boiled carrots or stir-fried broccoli 10. Cooked dishes that contain significant amounts of vegetables may also count 11. So how do you ensure an intake of five portions a day? Here's a typical plan: 12. Glass of fresh orange juice or smoothie for breakfast = one portion 13. Small pack of dried apricots for mid-morning snack = one portion 14. Side salad with lunch = one portion 15. Sugar snap peas and broccoli, served with main meal = one portion 16. Strawberries as dessert = one portion Do remember that some fruits contain many of their nutrients just under the skin, so eating them with the skin on can provide greater nutritional benefits and the maximum amount of fiber compared with just drinking the juice of the same fruit. of phytonutrients (protective plant compounds). These can act as powerful antioxidants, protecting the body from harmful free radicals and helping to protect against certain chronic diseases such as cancer. Some fruit and vegetables are labeled as 'super foods' because they contain high concentrations of some phytonutrients, particularly antioxidants, which appear to be beneficial to health. 1. Blueberries contain flavonoids that can improve circulation and help defend against infection 2. Broccoli - rich in the antioxidants vitamin C and betacarotene, as well as folate, all of which can protect against cardiovascular disease and cancer 3. Tomatoes - rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that can protect against harmful free radicals 4. Linseeds - rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which may help control cholesterol levels But variety is the key. In addition to these phytonutrients, each variety of fruit and vegetables contains its own combination of vitamins, minerals and fiber. Choosing a variety throughout the day will provide a diverse package of essential nutrients. many of these essential nutrients can be easily destroyed by heat when cooking and during food preparation. Water-soluble vitamins are especially vulnerable when boiled. One solution is to eat raw vegetables as much as possible, such as raw carrot, celery or peppers. When cooking vegetables, try steaming, microwaving or poaching rather than boiling. These methods do not involve immersing them in water, so the maximum amount of nutrients can be retained, as well as their fresh taste. If you prefer to boil vegetables, do so for the minimum amount of time and in as little liquid as possible in order to retain their valuable nutrients. You could also utilize the water used in another part of your dish, such as gravies or stocks, to recapture some of the leached nutrients. Five a day Due to their nutritional and health benefits, it's recommended that fruit and vegetables form the basis of your diet, with a minimum intake of five portions each day - about a third of your daily food consumption. Fruit and vegetables should be incorporated into every meal, as well as being the first choice for a snack. Population studies have shown that people who eat a lot of fruit and vegetables may have a lower risk of chronic disease, such as heart disease and some cancers. Health benefits can be gained from fresh, tinned (in natural juice), frozen, cooked, juiced or dried versions. Potatoes don't count though, as they're a starchy food. Fiber for weight control? How much is a portion? Boiled or steamed? Why are they important? Fruit and vegetables of differing colours contain diverse mixtures Although fruit and vegetables are packed with vitamins and minerals, Fruit and vegetables are important contributors to the intake of dietary fiber, both soluble and insoluble. Fiber is slowly digested and has a low Glycaemic Index (GI). This means glucose will be released steadily into the body over several hours, allowing you to feel fuller for longer, compared with high GI foods that produce a rapid rise followed by a subsequent fall in blood sugar, often leaving you hungry soon after you've eaten. This feeling of fullness produced by the fiber within fruit and vegetables can therefore help with weight control. Fruit and vegetables also assist weight management as they're low in calories, but remember that their calorific load is determined by what you prepare them with, so avoid the butter, cream or cheese sauces, and dips that can accompany them. Why Eat Three Bananas A Day British and Italian researchers have found that eating three bananas cuts the risk of a stroke. They said that having one banana for breakfast, one for lunch and one in the evening would provide enough potassium to reduce the chances of suffering a blood clot on the brain by around 21 per cent. The findings suggest that thousands of strokes could be prevented by the consumption of other potassium-rich foods such as spinach, nuts, milk, fish and lentils, as reported. Although some previous studies have suggested bananas could be important for controlling blood pressure and preventing strokes, results have not always been consistent. In the latest research, scientists analysed data from eleven different studies - dating back to the mid-Sixties - and pooled the results to get an overall outcome. They found a daily potassium intake of around 1,600 mg, less than half the UK recommended daily amount for an adult of 3,500mg, were enough to lower stroke risk by more than a fifth. The average banana contains around 500 milligrams of potassium, which helps to lower blood pressure and controls the balance of fluids in the body. Too little potassium can lead to an irregular heartbeat, irritability, nausea and diarrhoea. This information is provided for knowledge and educational purposes only. Individuals should visit their physicians for more information on their health. 28 www.fijitimescanada.com Friday June 1, 2012 Aries (Mar 21 - Apr 19) You will be in mood to keep aside all work, cares and worries, and just abandon yourself to the spirit of joyful festivities. You have earned yourself a well deserving holiday, or a reprieve from a hard tiring work schedule, which has given you satisfactory results as far as your job or financial position, is concerned. You will make the most of the holidays or vacations that you will take during this period and spend all your time in the company of your family, loved ones and friends. re-arranging a few things for a larger social function towards the weekend. Your personal life is very much on an upward swing and your mate or beloved will plan some exotic programme for your much-earned indulgence. You will look back at the year gone by with gratification despite a few knocks that you may have received around the middle of this year. Seniors will plan to set out on a pilgrimage in the company of their family, which will be spiritually a very enlightening experience. Taurus (Apr 20 - May 20) Leo (Jul 23 - Aug 22) in the family. You will be busy making arrangements for outstation guests you have invited for a get-together you have organised at your home. Youngsters, who have been romantically involved with someone for over a long period, will now introduce their friend to their family. This is ostensibly to seek the permission of elders for their marriage in future. Your family will be rather happy at your choice of partner and also the decision that you wish to settle down. will graciously accept most invitations. Have a great time. Capricorn (Dec 22 - Jan 19) You will be in festive mood and looking forward to joyful celebrations in the company of family and friends. Having achieved stability in your job and business it is quite natural now to enjoy the fruits of success. Make no fresh financial commitments now and just attend to routine work. You may have to put in some extra effort to complete a certain assignment that got held up due to technical reasons. Now with all the necessary clearance you will complete this particular assignment and retrieve the money blocked in this venture. The married will patch up their differences and have a great time during the upcoming festivities. Youngsters can look forward to exciting times with a little bit of fun and romance. Gemini (May 21 - Jun 20) The week is replete with joyful celebrations. You will be able to conclude most of your pending assignments and will now make plans for holidays in the company of family and friends. Financially you will feel quite secure and put in some money in savings. This is not the right time to make long term financial commitments, for there will be indications of changes in governmental policies in the near future. The employed will have a busy period ahead, and they may have to put in extra hours in completing their current task. Family life is quite happy. The married will resolve their differences that they are able to do with the mediation from a parent or an elder in the family. Youngsters planning to travel overseas for study or training programme will be leaving this week. Business activities will thrive. You are at your creative height and work out plans, which will yield better profits than usual. Your rivals will be surprised and will look at you with respect. Your reputation will bring in offers of partnership, which you may accept only after you scrutinize the proposals in detail. Some participation in a social or community function is indicated which will bring out the unknown side of your personality and you will gain high praise and respect for it. You may also make some useful contacts, which can be helpful in expanding your business activities. Household affairs will be smooth and the expected problems do not surface at all. Some visitors can be expected who will make for an enjoyable and thrilling get-together. Scorpio (Oct 24 - Nov 21) Virgo (Aug 23 - Sep 21) You will be looking forward to forthcoming festivals and holidays for which you may have made some exciting plans. Having achieved stability in your work and career, and with comfortable financial situation, you will leave all your cares and worries behind and get into the mood to celebrate. A happy and cheerful atmosphere at home, combined with certain auspicious event coming up in the family, keep you in high spirit. Love and romance is strongly into focus and you will make it a point to include your mate or beloved in each and every activity that you will participate in. Have a great time. In business your relationship with your partner is on the verge of a break down and sincere efforts will be required by both of you to save it in the interest of flourishing business. Your seniors seem to be particularly relying on you for certain types of assignments for which you have developed some expertise. This may not find favour with your colleagues but they also know that you are able capable and devoted. Unexpected but pleasant news from a distant place is indicated. With a steady romance, secure job and a healthy bank balance, you are feeling comfortable and happy. You may think of some treat with your loved one. Family atmosphere is free of tension and everybody is willing to share in the work willingly. The elders are in good health and mood to remember old times and the youngsters will listen to them with awe and respect. You will now have to be prepared for a festive occasion, which will require a fair amount of money and advance preparations. You will conclude most assignments early this week in order to avail of brief respite from a rather hectic schedule. You will make exciting plans for the forthcoming holidays and include your family and friends for joyful celebrations at your home. The married and those in love will share delightful moments that they will long cherish. You are in no mood to economize on spending on yourself or in buying expensive gifts for loved ones. Today you feel that you are in position to give presents, especially to those that have always stood by you and encouraged you in times of your emotional low. This is in no way a gesture of repaying for the support you received, which in any case was invaluable, but means to show your gratitude. You will have a very happy and joyful celebration ahead. Aquarius (Jan 20 - Feb 18) Sagittarius (Nov 22 - Dec 21) Libra (Sep 22 - Oct 23) Cancer (Jun 21 - Jul 22) You will conclude the year on a very positive and profitable note. The next few days you will be busy at home organizing family get-together and The week begins on a positive note with you receiving news of concluding a favourable contract. This new venture assures a steady income and without much hard work on your part. This piece of news will make you happy and you will plan a joyful celebration Financial growth and prosperity is assured to you during this week. The employed will learn about their forthcoming promotion and elevation to position of eminence. Your seniors holding a small get-together will celebrate this news at office. Now is the time for joyful celebrations. You will set aside all work-related cares and anxieties and indulge wholeheartedly in the festivities coming up during this week. And you have deserved this merriment having put in lot of hard work and struggle to attain a stable position and financial security. Your family will support you in every activity and your mate or beloved will be rather proud of you. Friends and admirers will seek you out and you After having worked hard and also taking care of your domestic responsibilities, you will now get into mood to take time off to just celebrate your success. Financial stability and a secured career can make it easier for you to indulge in joyful merry-making with family and friends. You will be sought by most of your acquaintances because of your positive and jovial outlook on life and living. And you are not going to refuse anyone that wish to join in to participate. Of course your mate or beloved being highly possessive would love to have you exclusively for some evenings but you will manage to sneak such moments of togetherness despite being regularly in large gatherings. Pisces (Feb 19 - Mar 20) You will be very excited about your forthcoming trip that you have planned in the company of your family and beloved. Your work and financial position is rather comfortable and you will not spare any money in making your travel and holidays memorable for times to come. Youngsters, who have been in love for some time now and are eligible, will make plans for getting married. Their family will be very pleased at their decision and give their blessings. Everyone in the family will be happy at the eventful that you have had and you can now dreams for even more well future ahead. Shrimp Fettucine Alfredo 1 pound fettuccini pasta 1 tablespoon butter 1 pound cooked shrimp - peeled and deveined 4 cloves garlic, minced 1 cup half-and-half 6 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese Ingredients 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley salt to taste Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes; drain. In a large skillet, saute shrimp and garlic in the butter for about one minute. Pour Directions in half and half; stir. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese in one tablespoon at a time, stirring constantly. After all Parmesan is added, mix in parsley and salt. Stir frequently making sure it does not boil. Sauce will take a while to thicken. When sauce has thickened, combine with cooked pasta noodles; serve hot. www.fijitimescanada.com Times Money News Friday June 1, 2012 29 Canadian Tire To Shut 115 FGL Stores Will expand Sport Chek brand Stand alone corporate locations for Sport Mart, Athletes World, Nevada Bob's Golf, Hockey Experts, Fitness Source and Econosports will either be converted to a Sport Chek or Atmosphere store or will be closed by the end of the first quarter of 2013, the company said. The company plans to expand FGL Sports across Canada, especially in Ontario and in the Greater Toronto Area, where it has been underrepresented. Sport Chek will be the key "super brand" outside Quebec, the company said. The new flagship Sport Chek stores will be opened, starting in 2013. Canadian Tire will develop Atmosphere as its outdoor lifestyle banner across the country. The company estimates pre-tax costs related to the closures to be C$26 million and expects most of it to be recognized in the second quarter. The closures do not impact any of FGL Sports' franchise banners or franchise store locations. It will make efforts to retain as many employees as possible through transfers to converted or new stores, the company said. Canadian Tire's heavily traded class A shares were down more than 1 percent at C$66.51 on Wednesday on the Toronto Stock Exchange. The majority of Canadians are in debt but nearly half of them are trying to pay off their dues ahead of schedule, according to a survey conducted for a major bank. The study, commissioned by CIBC, found that 72% of respondents said Canadians Focused On Cutting Debt, Poll Finds they held some form of debt such as a mortgage, student loan or credit card. However, about 49% of those responding to a phone survey conducted for CIBC said they’ve made an extra lump sum payment in the last year to try to bring down what they owed. Canadian Tire Corp Ltd's sporting goods chain, FGL Sports, will close 115 under-performing corporate stores and add larger new-concept stores. Canadian Tire, which sells automotive products, housewares and sporting goods, said FGL Sports plans to add more than 100 new Sport Chek and Atmosphere stores over the next five years. The company bought FGL Sports, formerly Forzani Group Ltd, last year. "In our work leading up to the acquisition of Forzani, it was clear that banner closures would be necessary and that was built into our financial modeling," Michael Medline, president of FGL Sports, said in a statement. "These banners are expected to be generating unprofitable sales at the time they are closed," Medline said. Facebook's Stock Continues To Decline After Rocky IPO Facebook's stock is once again declining after its huge but rocky initial public offering. Shares of Facebook Inc. dropped 98 cents, or 3.5 per cent, to US$27.21 in late morning trading Thursday. The stock is down more than 28 per cent from its IPO price. Facebook began trading on the Nasdaq Stock Market on May 18. The day started with a delay due to trading market glitches and didn't get much better from there. The company, along with the investment banks that led the IPO, is the subject of at least two shareholder lawsuits. May has been a bad month for the broader stock market too. On Thursday, the Dow Jones industrial average fell 89.1 points to 12,330.78 amid worries about the European economy. Canadian Finance Minister Jim Flaherty said BlackBerry-maker Research in Motion Ltd. should expect to restructure without aid from the federal government. “It has been a leading company for Canada in terms of research development and innovation, but it does need to reorganize itself, and that’s something that we expect the Blackberry-Maker Rim Won’t Get Help From Ottawa, Jim Flaherty Says Read the Fiji Times Canada online www.fijitimescanada.com leaders in the company to do on their own,” Flaherty told reporters in St. Martins, New Brunswick. Flaherty said he won’t “speculate” on RIM being acquired by a foreign company, adding that he was not aware of the government receiving any requests to review any acquisition under the country’s foreign-takeover law. To get the best value for your dollar Advertise in 604-909-4088 Toll Free: 1 866 840 2885 We Speak EnGLiSH, Hindi & pUnJaBi 30 www.fijitimescanada.com Friday June 1, 2012 Stolen Fiji Girmit History Retold At Tearful Girmit Remembrance Day In Auckland By Thakur Ranjit Singh “Women were forced to work on farms just days after birth and they had to leave their crying babies at the fringes of farms, not allowed to feed them…. Most suicides were by hanging, committed in early mornings. When the feet touched ground because the rope was too long, the victims folded their feet- so great was the desire to die and escape from a barbarous and inhumane system of girmit-the indenture”. That is the stolen history of girmit, the indenture system that was told by Rajendra Prasad, author of “Tears in Paradise -Suffering and Struggles of Indians in Fiji 18792004.” People in audience could be seen wiping their eyes. Indeed it was a tearful day to remember those who suffered to make sure the new generations never went through the same sufferings. The occasion was the first Girmit Remembrance Day at Mt Albert in Auckland, organised by Waitakere Indian Association Senior Citizens group on 20 May, 2012. Rajendra Prasad is a third generation Indo-Fijian - a descendant of Indian indentured labourers, who were recruited by the British to work in the sugarcane plantations in Fiji during the indenture period in Fiji from 18791919. He was the Town Clerk of Ba (1972-1987) and in 1974, while on a course to study local government management in Delhi, India, he located his roots. Through his inspiration and experience, he ventured to write and research for seven years (1997-2004). He has accomplished paying, in a small way, his debts to his grandfather and all Girmitiyas by relating the sad tales of suffering, in his book. He told that on 14 May 1879, the first sail ship Leonidas sailed into Levuka Harbour in Fiji and disembarked 479 Indian indentured labourers. It followed 86 other coolie ships that transported 60,553 Indian indentured labourers to Fiji. Most of them were employed by the CSR Company on its large sugarcane plantations or the sugar mills. The Girmitiyas served their indenture under horrific conditions, which resulted in Fiji recording the highest rate of suicide in the world during that period. The victims were deeply traumatized as physical and mental violence to men; women and children were ruthlessly administered. Fear and apprehension saturated their lives and they could not resist the evil system. “Our community paid a very heavy price and was systematically robbed of billions of dollars. Legally, there is no recourse to seeking justice but that does not absolve the British from its moral obligation to accept its iniquities and to express its remorse,” said an almost tearful Prasad and this also left other with tears. Devakar Prasad, former deputy general manager of Radio Fiji, who headed 100th Anniversary Girmit Remembrance in Fiji in 1979, had visited India to research and put together a 45 minute musical-historical presentation of Girmit. He gave a brief synopsis of his recording on girmit and promised to present the musical in a later event. He also suggested the Girmit Remembrance does not always have to be an occasion to cry, but also to celebrate the sacrifices, perseverance and foresight of their forbears. They were adaptable people who shed off old hang-ups and started afresh what we call a distinct new culture and language -Indo Fijians, or Fiji Indians. It was not only a day for organisers and its speakers, but a day where the chief guests were the descendants of girmitiyas eighty years and over. And there were many of them brought by the helping hands of their children and grandchildren. Subhag Wati rendered the old sohar (traditional wedding song) at the rhythmic accompaniment of claps by the audience while Lal Bahadur took us to the “coolie’ lines of girmit era with birah sung with energy and tune of that girmit era. Pundit Sharda Nand Maharaj, Narain Prasad and Kapil Deo Singh told us about the old tales, and showed newspaper clips and evidence of old records. Niyaz Begum Shariff, sister of Fiji parliamentarian and community leader, Chirag Ali (CA) Shah told history of her family. The day was not only confined to the sad tales of the Elderlies, but also shed light on the perception of new generation on indenture. A speech, written by Waitakere Hindi School student, Praval Tahal and delivered by a first year Auckland University student, Hasmita Singh told that girmit was a day for reflection not only on the atrocities that our forebears were subjected to but also on their resilience and perseverance in moving towards a better future. “We must also reflect on the positives that have come out of the Girmit System and not dwell overly on the negatives that are bygones,” Hasmita told in her oratory. The message from new generation is that Girmit Remembrance Day for them is a day for thanksgiving. For these fifth generation descendents of Girmityas, their forefathers are regarded as great adventurers, visionaries and pioneers to whom they are grateful for shaping them into what they are today. They are grateful that their “real heroes” left their place of birth and sailed away to a foreign land to seek a better life for themselves and their future generations, while preserving their religion, culture and language. For these, they are grateful. Girmit Remembrance Day in Auckland was not a fundraising event, it was neither a Bollywood entertainment or a day devoted to singing and dancing, nor was it a day for politicians and big shots. It was a day devoted to our elderly people. It was a day when the Elderlies were honoured, treated as chief guests, heard, forgotten history was told, old Girmit songs were revived and perceptions of the new generation were heard. It was an occasion where adults and children of Waitakere Indian Association took an opportunity to serve the first generation of girmitiyas with food, savouries and most importantly, love and honour which their parents were denied in girmit. It is hoped other Indo Fijians around the world will mark this day in this theme. A register of people over eighty (80) has been established and these people will be honoured by especially inscribed medals. A resolution was passed in public discussion that May 14 would be Girmit Remembrance Day, marked every year and it was agreed to form a trust and a special group, under leadership of Waitakere Indian Association, to promote knowledge and history of indenture. Those present also resolved that the tales and music of girmit should resound everywhere descendents of girmitiyas are settled as 14th May every year has been declared GIRMIT REMEMBRANCE DAY. May the souls of departed girmitiyas rest is peace, and receive salvation. May they receive our shradhanjali ke do phool- a wreath in their respected memories on this Girmit Remembrance Day.. E-mail:
[email protected] [Thakur Ranjit Singh is second generation descendent of Girmitiya Bansi from Karauli, Rajasthan, India. Bansi came to Fiji in 1915 as an indentured labourer, served his five years and settled in Ba, Fiji, where Thakur was born. Thakur was one of the organisers and Master of Ceremonies of Girmit Remembrance Day in Auckland.] Standing- L-R Ramaiya Rao, Govind Prasad, Ram Shankar Sharma, Babru Bahan Singh, Pundit Sharda Nand Maharaj, Kapil Deo Singh and Mrs Babru Bahan Singh. Sitting: L-R Shiu Mati Prasad, Lila Wati Dutt, Audh Raji Vishwanath, Subhag Wati, Jasoda Sumer, Niyaz Begum Shariff, Shiu Bharos, Narain Prasad, R. B Sharma and Rai Mati Singh www.fijitimescanada.com Friday June 1, 2012 31 Child Abuse and Neglect Recognizing and Preventing Child Abuse Child abuse is more than bruises and broken bones. While physical abuse might be the most visible sign, other types of abuse, such as emotional abuse or child neglect, also leave deep, long lasting scars. Some signs of child abuse are subtler than others. However, by learning common types of abuse and what you can do, you can make a huge difference in a child’s life. The earlier abused children get help, the greater chance they have to heal from their abuse. Learn the signs and symptoms of child abuse and help break the cycle, finding out where to get help for the children and their caregivers. Understanding child abuse and neglect Child abuse is more than bruises or broken bones. While physical abuse is shocking due to the scars it leaves, not all child abuse is as obvious. Ignoring children’s needs, putting them in unsupervised, dangerous situations, or making a child feel worthless or stupid are also child abuse. Regardless of the type of child abuse, the result is serious emotional harm. Myths and facts about child abuse and neglect MYTH #1: It's only abuse if it's violent. Fact: Physical abuse is just one type of child abuse. Neglect and emotional abuse can be just as damaging, and since they are more subtle, others are less likely to intervene. MYTH #2: Only bad people abuse their children. Fact: While it's easy to say that only "bad people" abuse their children, it's not always so black and white. Not all abusers are intentionally harming their children. Many have been victims of abuse themselves, and don’t know any other way to parent. Others may be struggling with mental health issues or a substance abuse problem. Turn the frog back into a wizzard. Draw the path through the maze starting MYTH #3: Child abuse doesn't happen at 4 and counting by the 4s to 400. in “good” families. Fact: Child abuse doesn't only happen in poor families or bad neighborhoods. It crosses all racial, economic, and cultural lines. Sometimes, families who seem to have it all from the outside are hiding a different story behind closed doors. MYTH #4: Most child abusers are strangers. Fact: While abuse by strangers does happen, most abusers are family members or others close to the family. MYTH #5: Abused children always grow up to be abusers. Fact: It is true that abused children are more likely to repeat the cycle as adults, unconsciously repeating what they experienced as children. On the other hand, many adult survivors of child abuse have a strong motivation to protect their children against what they went through and become excellent parents. Continued Next Week 32 www.fijitimescanada.com Times Health Friday June 1, 2012 Exercise 'Crucial To Older Adult's Fitness And Health' Several people consider aging to be a time to slow down and take it easy. However, a recent study suggests that the more we age, the more we need exercise to keep us independent and healthy. Yet, sometimes it takes a prescription from the doctor to get adults up and moving. "Exercise is important for almost everyone. There are very few medical conditions that exercise won't benefit. In fact, I sometime write a prescription to get my patients to start taking this seriously and help them understand exercise can be just as helpful as medication," said Keith Veselik, director of primary care at Loyola University Health System and associate professor in the Department of Medicine at Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine. "Around age 35 is when our muscle mass and resting metabolism starts to decrease. When this happens our bodies require more, not less exercise to manage our caloric intake. When this starts to happen we can eat the same things, do the same things and may gain 3 pounds a year. That's 30 pounds in a decade, "he said. Though exercising is beneficial to nearly everyone, before starting a program he advises that people, especially those who have not been active, to consult a doctor to determine their baseline and to get guidance about what exercises would be most advantageous. "In my own life I've seen the benefits of exercising. When that alarm goes off in the morning I want to just roll over, but I've seen such a positive change in so many ways. It can be difficult, especially at first, but the benefits truly outweigh the struggles," said Veselik. Veselik claimed that the best workout program balances cardiovascular exercise, strength training and flexibility. He recommends an hour of cardiovascular exercise four days a week, two days of strength training for 30 minutes and balance and flexibility exercises such as stretching, or yoga, one to two times a week. But what is most beneficial doesn't always translate into what is doable. Each decade of the old age has unique challenges. Veselik gives some ideas of how to use exercise to counter those health hurdles. For those who are in 50's cardiovascular exercise is the most favourable one Muscle and joint aches and pains start becoming more apparent, so Veselik suggests that one should get creative about how to keep up cardiovascular exercise as it is easy on the joints but get the heart rate up. He recommends trying exercising in a pool or riding a bike instead of running. If you do run, make sure you have good shoes and try to run on softer surfaces. Cardiovascular exercise also helps to fight many of the most common and deadly medical problems, including heart disease, asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). "But don't go from doing nothing to running a marathon. Talk to your doctor, ask about risk factors and together create a plan that's right for you," said Veselik. Another complaint for people in their 50s is back pain. "The best way to protect your back is to build strong core muscles and make sure you are lifting heavy objects correctly," said Veselik. In the 60's balancing and leg strengthening exercises should be prime concern. As we enter our 60s, balance and strength should be a major focus. Many people are scared of breaking a hip which can limit independence. Also, our bones aren't as strong and both men and women become more susceptible to osteoporosis. To help fight these concerns Veselik suggests that incorporating balance and leg strengthening exercises to increase flexibility as well as balance to help prevent accidental falls. Weightbearing exercise is vital to bone health and keeping bone density strong. In addition, many adults in their 60's begin to experience symptoms from arthritis, making the exercise difficult. "Exercise has been proven to help people deal with their arthritis. It's just making sure your exercise routine is working for you, not against you. Some people forget that walking is a great form of exercise, just make sure you get your heart rate up. Also, aquatic classes or swimming are a great way for people with arthritis or fibromyalgia to exercise," said Veselik. For the people in their 70's and beyond, Alzheimer and vascular dementia becomes the most regular problem and exercises are crucial to fight them. "The biggest worry I hear from my patients who are entering their 70s, 80s and beyond is dementia. The two most common forms are Alzheimer's and Vascular dementia," said Veselik. He also insisted that exercise is the only thing that is proven to prevent Alzheimer's. And, many of the major risk factors for vascular dementia, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes, can be countered with exercise. "Exercise is important, but it's not the end all. It needs to be coupled with eating right and incorporating other healthy habits to lead to a better quality of life," Veselik added. Heart-Healthy Diet Rules To Live By These guidelines are for healthy adults and children older than age 2 as well as people who already have health problems such as coronary artery disease, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, or heart failure. The following diet and lifestyle guidelines recommend that you: • Eat a variety of fruit and vegetable servings every day. Dark green, deep orange or yellow fruits and vegetables are especially nutritious. Examples include spinach, carrots, peaches, and berries. • Eat a variety of grain products every day. Include whole-grain foods that have lots of fiber and nutrients. Examples of whole grains include oats, whole wheat bread, and brown rice. • Eat fish at least 2 times each week. Oily fish, which contain omega-3 fatty acids, are best for your heart. These fish include tuna, salmon, mackerel, trout, herring and sardines. • • • • • • Stay at a healthy weight by balancing the amount of calories you eat with the activity you do every day. If you want to lose weight, increase your activity level to burn more calories than you eat. Eat foods low in saturated fat and cholesterol. Try to choose the following foods: Lean meats and meat alternatives like beans or tofu Fish, vegetables, beans and nuts Nonfat and low-fat dairy products Polyunsaturated or monounsaturated fats, like canola and olive oils, to replace saturated fats, such as butter Read food labels and limit the amount of trans fat you eat. Trans fat raises the levels of LDL ("bad”) cholesterol and also lowers highdensity lipoprotein (HDL, or "good") cholesterol in the blood. Trans fat is found in many processed foods made with shortening or with partially hydrogenated or hydrogenated vegetable oils. These foods include cookies, crackers, chips, and many snack foods. • Limit sodium intake to less than 2,300 mg of sodium per day (about one teaspoon). Choose and prepare foods with little or no salt. • Limit alcohol intake to 2 drinks per day for men and 1 drink per day for women. • Limit drinks and foods with added sugar. • When you are eating away from home, try to follow these hearthealthy guidelines. Special considerations include the following: • Older people. As you age, you do not usually need to eat as many calories. Although the general dietary guidelines remain the same, older people should be careful to choose foods rich in nutrients to meet their nutritional • needs without too many calories. Children. Many more children are becoming overweight. Although more research is needed on specific dietary guidelines for children, overweight children have an increased risk for diabetes and coronary artery disease (CAD) later in life. Children over the age of 2 can follow the diet and lifestyle recommendations and maintain normal growth while lowering their risk of heart disease in the future. People with kidney disease. Cardiovascular disease can develop in people who lose normal function of their kidneys. If you have kidney disease, you may need to limit some nutrients including protein and sodium. To get the best value for your dollar Advertise in • • 604-909-4088 Toll Free: 1 866 840 2885 This information is provided for knowledge and educational purposes only. Individuals should visit their physicians for more information on their health. www.fijitimescanada.com Times Health Friday June 1, 2012 33 Cheating On Your Partner 'Can Give You Heart Attack' Infidelity is not just bad for your marriage, but it can also give you a heart attack, Italian researchers have warned. A review of previous studies on the Furred-up arteries were blamed for causes of infidelity and its effects has more than a third of the deaths - the found that men are risking their cardiac physical demands of sex are said to health when they cheat on their wives. cause the fatty plaque that has built up Liaisons away from home and with inside arteries to rupture. younger women are particularly Heart attacks were the next biggest dangerous. cause of death, the Journal of Sexual These showed 'sudden coital death' to Medicine reported. be much more common when a man The stress of wining, dining and was meeting his mistress than when he satisfying a woman who is likely to was with his wife. be younger than the man's wife may The researchers could not be sure why also be to blame, as can the strain of but put forward a variety of reasons, keeping an affair secret. including a guilty conscience. "Extra-marital sex may be hazardous The review's authors, from the and stressful because the lover is often University of Florence, began by younger than the primary partner scouring medical literature for and probably sex occurs more often research papers including the words following excessive drinking and/or 'unfaithfulness', 'extramarital affairs', eating," the reporter quoted researcher 'infidelity' and 'men'. Dr Alessandra Fisher as saying. The analysis showed that heart attacks, "It is possible that a secret sexual including fatal ones, were relatively encounter in an unfamiliar setting may rare when a man was having sex with significantly increase blood pressure his wife at home. But when he started and heart rate, leading to increased to play away, the dangers grew. oxygen demand," he explained. German studies show that most men Guilt may also play a role with some who died during sex were having an research suggesting heart problems are affair and meeting away from the more common among cheats who are family home. still attracted to their wife. Memory Deteriorates Faster In Life's Last Two Years A person's memory deteriorates at a faster rate in the last two-and-a-half years of his or her life than at any other time after memory problems first begin, says a study. Conversely, keeping mentally fit rates that were eight to 17 times faster through reading of other mental activity than before this terminal period. may be the best way to preserve memory The second study, also conducted by during late life. Both these studies Wilson, showed that keeping mentally were conducted by researchers at Rush fit through board games or reading may University Medical Centre, Chicago. be the best way to preserve memory "In our first study, we used the end of during late life. life as a reference point for research on The study, which focused on mental memory decline rather than birth or the activities, involved 1,076 people with start of the study," said study author an average age of 80 who were free Robert S. Wilson, neuropsychologist at of dementia. Participants underwent Rush Medical Centre in Chicago, the yearly memory exams for about five journal Neurology reported. years. For the study, 174 Catholic priests, They reported how often they read nuns and monks without memory the newspaper, wrote letters, visited a problems had their memory tested library and played board games such as yearly for six to 15 years before death. chess or checkers. Frequency of these After death, scientists examined their mental activities was rated on a scale brains for hallmarks of Alzheimer's of one to five, one meaning once a year disease called plaques and tangles, said or less and five representing every day a university statement. or almost every day. The study found that at an average "The results suggest a cause and effect of about two-and-a-half years before relationship: that being mentally active death, different memory and thinking leads to better cognitive health in old abilities tended to decline together at age," said Wilson. Medical Tests And Treatments You Should Question Nine medical societies have released a list of 45 tests and treatments that patients should question and doctors should avoid in most cases as part of an effort to cut wasteful spending. Here is a sample: — Don`t do MRI`s or other imaging scans for low back pain within the first six weeks, unless serious underlying conditions are suspected. (American Academy of Family Physicians) — Don`t do brain CT scans or MRI`s on patients who have fainted with no evidence of seizures or neurological problems. (American College of Physicians) — Don`t treat tumors in end-stage cancer patients whose disease has failed to respond to multiple curative therapies, are ineligible for experimental treatments, are confined to a bed or chair more than half the day, and there is an absence of evidence supporting clinical value of further anti-cancer treatment. (American Society of Clinical Oncology) — Don`t order CT scans or prescribe antibiotics for patients with uncomplicated upper respiratory conditions. (American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology) — Avoid routine pre-hospital admission or preoperative chest X-rays for patients with no indication of heart or lung disease. (American College of Radiology) — Do not repeat colorectal cancer screening by any method for 10 years after negative results from a highquality colonoscopy in patients with an average risk profile. (American Gastroenterological Association) — Don`t perform sophisticated cardiac imaging tests on patients who have a low risk of heart attack or death based on physical examination and other markers. (American Society of Nuclear Cardiology) — Don`t start long-term kidney dialysis without a thorough discussion and shared decision-making process including patient and family. (American Society of Nephrology) — Don`t perform stress cardiac imaging on patients without heart symptoms unless they are in high-risk groups, such as diabetics. (American College of Cardiology) Ignoring email messages altogether could have a positive effect on your heart as it will help reduce stress, a study suggests. Scientists who attached heart rate monitors to office workers found they remained in a state of "high alert" throughout the day if they had constant access to email. But those told they had their manager's permission to not check their messages for up to five days at a time had much healthier heart rates, as reported. Researchers who carried out the study, at the University of California Irvine, are calling for employers to consider implementing email "holidays" to preserve workers' health, the newspaper said. According to some estimates, more than 200 billion e-mails are sent across the internet every day. But while they may have improved communication speeds, there have been concerns that electronic messaging is detrimental to both physical and mental health. Ignoring Emails Could Be Good For Your Heart Calcium Pills Raise Heart Attack Risk Taking calcium supplements can push up the risk of a heart attack, and could do more harm than good, warn researchers. People take calcium supplements as they are recommended for strengthening bones against osteoporosis. But, according to the study, the supplements can no longer be seen as a low-cost panacea against thinning bones, as reported. Instead, the scientists suggest, people should eat more calcium-rich foods like milk, cheese and green, leafy vegetables. Researchers looked at records for 24,000 people in Germany aged 35 to 64 taking part in a nutrition research project in the 1990s. Their diet was analyzed and they were asked if they had taken vitamin or mineral supplements in the previous month. The volunteers were tracked for 11 years, during which there were 354 heart attacks, 260 strokes and 267 associated deaths. Those taking any supplements, including calcium, were found to be 86 percent more likely to have a heart attack than those who did not take any. But the risk for those taking only calcium was even higher. Ian Reid and Mark Bolland, of the University of Auckland, New Zealand, said people should be discouraged from taking the boosters. 34 www.fijitimescanada.com Friday June 1, 2012 Raj Kapoor's 'Awaara' Added To Time's 100 Greatest Films Time magazine has included Raj Kapoor's 1951classic "Awaara" among 20 new entries added to its All-Time 100 list of the greatest films made since 1923. Bollywood Tunes At Queen's Pageant Bollywood tunes will be played at the Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant in London on June 3rd, celebrating 60 years of service of Her Majesty The Queen of United Kingdom (UK) Elizabeth II. Said to be the largest live public event ever held in London, this unique spectacle will include 11 kilometers long flotilla on Thames River, about 20,000 participants on the water on 1,000 vessels including Royal College of Music Chamber Choir, 50 large viewing screens in London, and a million spectators with a global audience in billions. Large parts of Central London riverside and bridges will be pedestrianised for this event, described as "the biggest street and river party in the nation’s history". The London Philharmonic Orchestra will also be playing pieces relevant to buildings it passes en route on river, including the theme music to the James Bond films. Organizers are encouraging riverside properties to “dress” their buildings on this event providing “biggest collection of historic vessels ever assembled on the Thames” with boats dating back to 1740 CE. Welcoming the inclusion of traditional Indian melodies in this grand Pageant, Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada (USA) pointed out that it was a “step in the right direction” in view of increasingly diverse demographics of UK. Queen Elizabeth and Duke of Edinburgh Prince Philip reportedly visited Hindu Krishna-Avanti Primary School in Edgware in Greater London on the first day of her Diamond Jubilee tour on March 29. In 2010, Queen, who is Supreme Governor of the Church of England, acknowledged contributions of “all faiths” while inaugurating Ninth General Synod of the Church of England in Westminster (UK). In 2009, Queen hosted Bollywood and Bhangra dances at Buckingham Palace in London. Queen has watched the Bollywood dancing during a visit to Bradford (UK). In 2002, The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh visited Highgate Hill Murugan Hindu Temple in North London in 2002. Zed, who is President of Universal Society of Hinduism, said that it was remarkable on the part of the Queen to speak about “all faiths” and “great faith traditions” instead of just talking about Church of England. Applauding Queen’s inclusive approach, Zed argued that UK was now a multifaith society and urged Queen to extend her support to make the opening prayers in both houses of UK Parliament multifaith instead of the current only belonging to Christian faith. Rajan Zed also urged the Queen to visit a Hindu temple on the next Diwali, which falls on November 13. Shree Muktajeevan Pipe Band and Dhol Ensemble, including 50 musicians from Shree Muktajeevan Pipe Band and Shree Muktajeevan Dhol Academy, will reportedly play the Bollywood anthems and traditional Indian melodies at the Pageant. This Band was established in 1972 by the devotees of London’s Shree Swaminarayan Gadi Sansthan in honor of Gurudev Adya Acharyapravar Jeevanpran Shree Muktajeevan Swamibapa and now plays at public festivals and events worldwide. Lord Swaminarayan established Shree Swaminarayan Gadi in India in the 18th Century. Dave Khimani and Ravi Vekaria are Band Secretary and Drum Major respectively. Lord Salisbury, Michael Lockett and Adrian Evans are Chairman, Chief Executive and Pageant Master respectively of the Thames Diamond Jubilee Foundation. Diamond Jubilee celebrations mark 60 years of The Queen's reign who came to the throne on February six, 1952 and her coronation took place on June 2nd, 1953. Rethinking the movie masterpieces, Time critic Richard Corliss describes Raj Kapoor as "the great star-auteur of India's postcolonial golden age of movies - Cary Grant and Cecil B. DeMille in one handsome package." The '50s films he headlined and directed became huge hits not just in his newly freed homeland but also across the Arab crescent from Indonesia to North Africa. Kapoor, who modelled his screen persona on Charlie Chaplin's Little Tramp, was 26 when he filmed "Awaara" (The Tramp). Time calls "Awaara" as "a glistening showcase for Kapoor and the great India siren Nargis (his lover onscreen and off)." "And of course it's a musical, whose main song, 'Awaara Hoon,' by the famed Shanker-Jaikishan duo, soared to the top of the pop charts in India, the USSR and China." The original All-Time 100 list published in 2005 included Satyajit Ray's "The Apu Trilogy", Mani Ratnam's "Nayakan" and Guru Dutt's "Pyaasa". Bollywood composer A.R. Rahman's score for Mani Ratnam's "Roja" (The Rose), the tale of a woman whose lover is kidnapped by terrorists, was also among 10 Best Soundtracks. Last week, Time magazine ranked Bollywood director Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 2002 film "Devdas" eighth among the ten greatest movies of the millennium (thus far). www.fijitimescanada.com Friday June 1, 2012 35 Biswajit Chatterjee mostly paired with top actresses like Asha Parekh, Mumtaz, Mala Sinha and Rajshree. His films often had popular soundtracks, causing the films, and Biswajeet, to become even betterknown. Biswajit appeared in Rekha's debut film Anjana Safar (1969) (later re-titled Do Shikaari). Though Anjana Safar was blocked by the censors and not released until 10 years later, a scene from the film which shows him kissing Rekha appeared on the pages of the Asian edition of Life magazine. In between acting in Bollywood movies, Biswajit kept going back to Calcutta to act in Bengali films, like the superhit Chowringhee (1968) with Uttam Kumar and much later, Srimaan Prithviraj (1973) and (1977). Later career moderately well at the box office. Later he went back to acting. Personal life Biswajit has been married twice and has three children. He has a son and a daughter by his first wife, Ratna Chatterjee, whom he abandoned for his second wife when his children were very young. His son Prasenjit is a superstar in the Bengali film industry and has been the number one star of Bengali cinema for more than a decade now. His elder daughter, Pallabi Chatterjee, is a lesser known film and television actress. Neither of them have any personal contact with their father and have not appeared in any movie together after Chhotto Jigyasa in which Prasenjit enacted the real life son of Biswajeet as a five year old. Biswajit lives in Bombay with his second wife and their daughter Shambhavi. Filmography Daak Harkaraa (1959) Natun Fasal, Maya Mriga (1960) Kathin Maya, Dui Bhai (1961) Nav Diganta, Dhoop Chhaya, Dada Thakur, Bees Saal Baad (1962) Bin Badal Barsaat (1963) Shehnai, Prabhater Rang, Majboor, Kohra, Kaise Kahoon, Godhuli Belaye, April Fool (1964) Mere Sanam, Do Dil (1965) Yeh Raat Phir Na Aayegi, Sagaai, Biwi Aur Makaan, Aasra (1966) Night in London, Nai Roshni, Jaal, Hare Kanch Ki Chooriyan, Ghar Ka Chirag (1967) Vaasna, Kismat, Do Kaliyaan, Chowringhee (1968) Tamanna, Raahgir, Pyar Ka Sapna (1969) Pardesi, Ishq Par Zor Nahin (1970) Main Sunder Hoon, Kuheli (1971) Shararat, Chaitali (1972) Sriman Prithviraj, Mehmaan, Ami Shirajer Begum (1973) Prantarekha, Do Aankhen, Phir Kab Milogi (1974) Kahte Hain Mujhko Raja (1975) Jai Bajrang Bali (1976) Naami Chor, Baba Taraknath (1977) Do Shikaari (1979) Hum kadam (1980) Amar Geeti (1983) Anand Aur Anand (1984) Saaheb (1985) Krishna-Krishna, Allah Rakha(1986) Belagaam (1988) Zimmedaar (1990) Jigarwala (1991) Mehboob Mere Mehboob (1992) Inth Ka Jawab Patthar (2002) Biswajit, full name Biswajit Deb Chatterjee, is a Bengali/Hindi actor. He was born in Calcutta, West Bengal Dated Deccember 14, 1936 and later went to Bombay to do some memorable Hindi films. Early career After a couple of hit films in Calcutta like Mayamrigo (1960) and Dui Bhai (1961), Biswajit went to Bombay. In 1962, he catapulted to fame with his superhit film, Bees Saal Baad. Even though Shammi Kapoor was the reigning heartthrob of the masses and considered the king of romance in the 60s, Biswajit was a name to reckon with. He acted in notable films like Mere Sanam (1965), Shehnai (1964), Yeh Raat Phir Naa Ayegi (1966), April Fool (1964), Kismat (1968), Do Kaliyan (1968), and Sharaarat (1972). He was In 1975, Biswajit produced and directed his own film, Kahte Hai Mujhko Raja. He also acted in the film with major stars, such as Dharmendra, Hema Malini, Shatrughan Sinha, and Rekha (reteaming with her after Anjana Safar). Because of the star-studded cast and R.D. Burman's music, the film did Ekta Kapoor's Media School To Open In Capital She has provided a platform to many actors and technicians through her successful TV shows and films, and even trained showbiz aspirants through her Mumbaibased media school. Now Ekta Kapoor is set to open a branch in Delhi. "We realised that 40 percent of applications to our Mumbai institute came from the north, and since Delhi is the hub of north India, we decided to have a set-up here," Anurag Gupta, CEO, ICE, told the media. ICE, expected to open in Delhi's South Extension area in June, offers fulltime and part-time courses in acting, cinematography, direction, editing, production, scriptwriting, sound recording, modeling and VFX. "Being a production house, Balaji had always gone out to scout for talent in various colleges, and then trained them to be ready to join the industry. So we thought if we could open our own media school and train aspirants regularly, we could even contribute to the industry. That's how the thought process for ICE came about," said Gupta. ICE's Mumbai facility is set amidst 13 Balaji studios where some of their most popular serials and films are shot. That provides students get live exposure. But will Delhi students lose out on that edge? "For certain projects, students will have to spend some time in our Mumbai campus for live exposure," explained Gupta. The courses at ICE are priced between Rs.100,000 to Rs.300,000, while its programmes for kids cost between Rs.4,000 and Rs.15,000. Applicants are required to go through a rigorous, three-level admission procedure of the institute. Ekta, popular for producing shows like "Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi" and "Bade Achhe Lagte Hain" and movies like "Ragini MMS" and "The Dirty Picture", herself is actively involved in its activities. "This is Ekta's brainchild. She has given a lot of thought to the curriculum and is on the advisory board. She is highly inspirational," added Gupta. To get the best value for your dollar Advertise in Kapoor, the joint managing director at Balaji Telefilms, launched Institute of Creative Excellence (ICE) in Mumbai in 2010 to provide industry-related courses and to bridge the gap between demand for and supply of professionals. 604-909-4088 Toll Free: 1 866 840 2885 36 www.fijitimescanada.com Friday June 1, 2012 Expensive Silver Screen Divas Bollywood divas have always attracted the attention of the nation. The high paid endorsement helps them to encash their popularity. The staggering charges demanded by the silver screen actresses are unbelievable. Kareena Kapoor The former Miss World Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is still a hot choice for various brands to endorse their brands. It seems her charm and glamour does wonders for brand promotion. She has a handful of big deals in her kitty that include Longines, L’Oreal and Lux to name a few. She is estimated to make Rs. 4 crore from brand endorsements. Priyanka Chopra has represented Parker, L’Oreal and Spice mobile. It is rumored that she has earned Rs. 3 crore from her past endorsement details. Vidya Balan The glamour girl of Bollywood is working for famous brands, such as Coca Cola, Head & Shoulder, Sony VAIO and Boro Plus. Her per day endorsement fee is Rs. 1 to 1.25 Crore. Katrina Kaif The bubbly and dusky beauty has a household presence through her numerous television advertisements. Her long list of endorsed brands contains names such as Sunsilk, Nokia, Tag Heuer, Ponds, Asmi jewellery and Lux. It seems her magic is doing wonders for the brands she represents and we can pretty well hope that more brands will get added to her growing list of endorsements. At present she charges in between Rs. 0.65 to 0.75 Crore per day. Deepika Padukone Vidya is riding high on the popularity chart after her back to back hits. She is charging endorsement fee of Rs 0.25-0.5 crore per day. AirTel TV, GoodKnight and Nihar hair oil are the brands endorsed by her. Katrina Kaif is in high demand these days for brand endorsement. Her Aamsutra advertisements for a soft drink company have already created a stir in the nation. Other famous brands she is endorsing are Nakshatra, Godrej, Pantene, Olay and Veet. She charges an amount of Rs. 1 to 1.25 Crore per day. Aishwarya Rai The latest heartthrob of Bollywood charges a fee of Rs. 0.5-0.75 crore per day. She has represented brands Tissot, Fiama di Willis, Neutrogena and Nescafe. Sonam Kapoor Sonam is a new entrant to the tinsel town of Bollywood and is in the process of finding her place under the sun. The world of endorsement is an exciting opportunity for her. She www.fijitimescanada.com Friday June 1, 2012 37 At The Movies Men In Black III (PG) * * * Space Invaders! changing menaces. Elements of time travel figure rather prominently in this third segment as some mystery criminal goes back in time to “eliminate” Agent K. To the rescue goes Agent J where in 1969 he meets up with a younger, slimmer version of his famed partner played with considerable relish by Josh Brolin (No Country for Old Men) who continues to grow as an actor. Produced by Steven Spielberg, Men in Black III is a fun time full of nostalgia and sly performances. Other memorable actors in this fantasy space aged piece are Emma Thompson as Agent O and Jemaine Clement as Boris the Animal, a nasty piece of work bent 103 minute effortless escapade enjoyable from start to finish. And with a nice paced clip Men in Black III turns out to be joyous fun filled with laughter all the way! Friendly aliens and a cocky script provide loads of laughs in Men in Black III, the 3rd in the alien oriented staple from Columbia Pictures now invading audiences at Empire Studio 12, Colossus and Cineplex Odeon Theatres around B.C. Back for more mayhem our those merry agents and relentless foreign bodies Made in 3D and for once the 3-D effects works director Barry Sonnenfeld (Get Shorty) pulls out all the stops in this free for all that is full of fun all the way. Veteran agents J and K return to the roost and are all guns ablazing as they encounter gooey slimy creatures destined to overrun earth. Comical foil Will Smith (Hancock) and deadpan legend Tommy Lee Jones (Double Jeopardy) are in the zone as the nerd and the square set to rid the world of those pesky every By ROBERT WALDMAN Jennifer Lopez and her estranged husband Mark Anthony shared the stage together for the live finale of their TV talent show in Las Vegas. Though they've split, Lopez and one point they embraced each other Anthony stood hand in hand as the on stage, much to the delight of the crowd cheered for their show 'Q'Viva! crowd. The Chosen' on Saturday, People Lopez - who is now dating backing magazine reported. dancer Casper Smart - and Anthony According to Contactmusic, despite have always promised to make their their split, Jennifer and Marc looked split as amicable as possible for the close throughout the night and at sake of Max and Emme. Jennifer Lopez Reunites With Mark Anthony On Stage For Vegas Concert Sir Elton John has pulled out of three performances of his current Las Vegas residency, after being taken to hospital with a respiratory infection. The singer was admitted to Los Angeles' Cedars-Sinai Medical Centre on Wednesday, but released the same day. Doctors have advised the 65-yearold star against working while he completes a course of antibiotics. The remaining 11 concerts of his Million Dollar Piano residency at Caesars Palace take place in October. "Elton developed a serious respiratory infection last weekend while performing at The Colosseum on May 20," said a statement by his publicist, Fran Curtis. "This week the condition worsened, even with medication and rest, resulting in Elton being hospitalised." The statement added that the singer underwent "extensive tests" and was recommended to take "complete rest" for "approximately seven days... to cure his respiratory infection and prevent any damage". Sir Elton added his own apologies: "All I can say to the fans is 'sorry I can't be with you'." Elton John Cancels Vegas Shows On Doctors' Orders "I love performing the show and I will be thrilled when we return to the Colosseum in October to complete the 11 concerts." Sir Elton was previously forced to cancel two concerts in February, after he came down with food poisoning. Gibb dedication The singer, whose hits include Your Song and Candle in the Wind, began his three-year headlining stint in Las Vegas in September last year. Earlier this week, he dedicated his track Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me to Bee Gees singer Robin Gibb, who died at the weekend. "The Bee Gees were part of my life when I was growing up; they were a huge influence on me as a songwriter," he told the audience. "Travel well Robin - you were amazing. God bless you." The singer is expected to perform at The Queen's Diamond Jubilee concert at Buckingham Palace on June 4th before embarking on a tour of Europe in June and July. He returns to the United States and Canada for a series of concerts in September, before completing the Las Vegas residency. Read the Fiji Times Canada online www.fijitimescanada.com 38 www.fijitimescanada.com Friday June 1, 2012 Continued from last week Shine a Light on Grime Spring-Cleaning Tips through the house cleaning Dust Your Curtains will determine how you dust them. For metal minis, put a pair of socks on your hands, lightly dampened with water or multipurpose cleaner. Put one hand behind the blinds and one on the front; run your hand from top to bottom, and then side to side. For wood blinds, follow the same procedure, but use only a little tap water. DO NOT over wet and be sure to buff dry right away. For fabric blinds, go over the fabric in the same way but with a dry microfiber cloth. that you can change, remove it. If it's washable, follow the manufacturer's instructions. Some can be washed with mild soap and water; others cannot. If not, replace your old filter with a new one. Dust radiators or coils that are visible, taking care not to bend any. While doing this, use a cleaning cloth dampened with water to wipe down the surface debris, dust, or dirt and check to see if there are any leaks. And that's it! See how easy that was? When you break down big projects like spring cleaning into manageable pieces, it's a lot less overwhelming. See you again next spring! To clean your light switches and wall plates, be sure you have enough paper towels or microfiber cloths to do all the switch plates in the house. Spray the cleaner directly on the cloth (not on the plate). Wipe to remove gummy, sticky fingerprints. Buff to dry. If the switch itself is dirty, this is where a cotton-tip swab comes in handy. This is one of my little weekly chores — when I see smudges or dirt, I grab the microfiber cloth or a paper towel, apply a bit of rubbing alcohol, and clean. It seems I start with one and end up walking If you have time or are inclined to take your drapes down, launder or have them cleaned according to the care label. For a quick fix, use the upholstery attachment of the vacuum cleaner because it does wonders not only to brush away the dust, but also to remove and contain it. If there's a valence above the curtains, dust the top! Spruce Up Blinds Tidy Up Air Ducts When cleaning mini blinds, their material — metal, wood, or fabric — Here's how to maintain your furnace and air conditioning system. If your furnace or air conditioner has a filter Spring Forward With BBB Home Improvement Tips During the warm weather, homeowners often make Spring the time to do some home improvement projects. Whether you are looking to redo your kitchen and bath, or replace your home's roof or build a deck, it is essential that you find a contractor that you can trust. Last year, Better Business Bureau serving Mainland B.C. received 867 complaints against general contractors, and home improvement related companies. This past Spring BBB has received reports of contractors in the Thompson-OKanagan and across the Lower Mainland who have intimidated homeowners and ended up charging too much and doing too little. “Watch out for red flags from those just looking to make a quick buck,” says Lynda Pasacreta, BBB President and CEO. “Be especially wary of doing business with a contractor who solicits business door-to-door. This could mean that the contractor is just passing through the area trying to scam innocent consumers.” BBB advises consumers to use the following checklist when choosing a home contractor: Don’t give into sales pressure. If a contractor shows up to your door offering services ask to take their business card or flyer. Do not let a person pressure you into signing up. Let them know you will contact them after consulting with your Spouse or partner. Be picky and have lots of options. Seek at least three bids from prospective contractors based on the same specifications, materials and labour needed to complete the project. Homeowners should discuss bids in detail with each contractor and ask questions about variations in pricing. The lowest-priced contractor may not be the best. Make sure they are insured. Consumers should ask whether the company is insured with WorkSafe BC against claims covering workers' compensation, property damage and personal liability in case of accidents. Consumers should obtain the name of the insurance carrier and call to verify coverage. Get everything in writing. Read and understand the contract before signing. Get all verbal promises in writing. Include start and completion dates in the contract. Homeowners must hold back 10% of the contract price until 55 days after the general contract is substantially completed, abandoned, or otherwise ended to ensure that all subcontracted companies are paid. This way, if there are liens from workers who did not get paid from the original contractor, the holdback may be used to help pay these liens. Do your homework. As always, you can visit BBB's website: www.mbc. bbb.org to look up an organization or file a complaint. You can also ask the contractor for local references, and get a chance to see the actual work done by the contractor. If the contractor does quality work, they should have no problem providing references. MLA Sue Hammell Hosts Community Forum And Launches Petition For A Canadian Embassy In Fiji On May 22nd, Sue Hammell, MLA for Surrey-Green Timbers, hosted a community forum regarding the need for a Canadian Embassy in Fiji. Joining the forum were a series of speakers, including Jinny Sims, MP for NewtonNorth Delta, Councillor Marvin Hunt and former Fiji Consul Raj Pillai. “I spoke with many individuals who told me they want to see a Canadian Embassy in Fiji,” said Hammell. “Right now, the closest Canadian Embassy is located in Sydney, Australia which is over 3,200 kilometers away or about a four-hour plane ride. This is simply unacceptable.” Nearly one hundred individuals attended the forum to raise and share their thoughts and concerns. “The forum was well received as it gave the community an opportunity to come together and have a voice on this very important topic,” said Hammell. “Together, we have to keep the pressure on the Harper government to address the concerns of the community. To do this, we have to keep issues current for them to be addressed. During the forum, we launched a petition calling on Harper’s government to open an Embassy in Fiji and I encourage the community to sign the petition. Once we have enough signatures, our local Members of Parliament will deliver them to Ottawa.” The petition is available for download online at http://www.suehammellmla. ca/fijianpetition/ or can be signed in person at one of these locations: · MLA Sue Hammell Constituency Office: 100-9030 King George Blvd. · MP Jinny Sims Constituency Office: 113-8532 Scott Rd. · MP Jasbir Sandhu Constituency Office: 107-13979 104th Ave. · Surdel Party Rentals: 8285 132 St. · Lets Talk Travel’n Tours: 1178434 120th St. · Hot Bread Kitchen MBM Bakery: 3-7780 135A St. More signing locations will be setup and locations will be posted on the website. www.fijitimescanada.com Times Travel News Friday June 1, 2012 39 Visiting Chennai (Madras) India Chennai, and also the first language of most locals. Almost all people speak Tamil, a classical language, picking up some knowledge of the local language is useful to get by in Chennai as in every city in the world. However, knowledge of English is sufficient for the average visitor to the city. English education is widespread in Chennai, thanks to an excellent network of schools throughout the city. All educated people in Chennai can speak fluent English while almost everybody will understand simple English and can speak a few words. All important signboards are in English. All transactions with commercial establishments are typically in English. Unlike other major cities in India, Hindi is not widely understood, and many locals will find it offensive if you try to speak to them in Hindi. Those native to Chennai and its suburbs speak the language of Tamil with a characteristic accent. Due to the proximity of the city to the State of Andhra Pradesh (where the official language is Telugu) and a presence of sizable quasi-telugu speaking population in the city, there is heavy borrowing of telugu words into the vocabulary of 'Chennai Tamil'. Another characteristic of Chennai Tamil is that the words are spoken fast, possible in line with the fast-paced life in Chennai when compared with the rest of the state. However, the Chennai accent does not go well with many Tamil. At best, Chennai tamil could be termed 'crude'. Nevertheless, all educated people are taught standard Tamil in school, and standard Tamil is still used in more formal settings as well as in the news. How to get there By plane Chennai International Airport (IATA: MAA) is the third busiest in India (after Mumbai & Delhi). All international flights arrive at Anna Terminal, while the domestic flights arrive at Kamraj Terminal. The two terminals are on the same road and are 150 m (492 ft) away from each other. It is the secondlargest cargo hub in the country, after Mumbai. Chennai is well connected to London, Frankfurt, Singapore, Malaysia, Middle East, New York, Hong Kong, etc. Europe and North America: Jet Airways offers daily service to New York with one stop in Brussels. Lufthansa (Frankfurt) and British Airways (London-Heathrow), fly nonstop to Chennai with connecting service from their European hubs to points in the United States and Canada. South-East Asia: Thai Airways offers nonstop service to Bangkok. Silk Air, Singapore Airlines and Tiger Airways connects you to Singapore along with many Indian carriers like Indian Airlines and Air India Express. AirAsia connects passengers to Kuala Lumpur, Penang with affordable fares while Malaysia Airlines offers nonstop service to Malaysia. India's very own Jet Airways flies non-stop to both Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. Cathay Pacific flies non-stop to Hong Kong. Air Mauritius flies non-stop to Mauritius. Air Seychelles flies nonstop to Seychelles. Middle East: Nonstop services are available from Chennai to Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Dubai, Dammam, Doha, Jeddah, Kuwait, Muscat, Qatar, Riyadh and Sharjah on Air Arabia, Indian Airlines, Air India Express, Oman Air, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Kuwait Airways, Qatar Airways, Saudi Arabian and Gulf Air. Sri-Lanka: Chennai is a hub for flights to Colombo with Sri Lankan Airlines, Jet Airways, Indian Airlines, Air India Express, JetLite and Kingfisher Airlines. Chennai is the traveling hub for Colombo. Domestic: All the major Indian domestic carriers (Jet Airways, Kingfisher, Spice, Go Air, Indigo) connect Chennai with multiple flights to points all over India and most use Chennai as a hub for flights to smaller cities in South India. Paramount Airways is a low cost all business class airline that offers flights from Chennai to points in South India. Chennai is also a staging point for flights to Port Blair in the Andaman Islands. Airport to City Connection The cheapest and most authentic way to the city is by taking the train into town which only costs a few rupees. This is best if you don't have large amounts of baggage. Otherwise, use the prepaid taxi booth. Aviation Express is massively overpriced. Using the pre-paid taxi to get to the city, each terminal has several booths for several taxi companies when you exit the airport, outside before you meet the crowd. Dakshinachitra: A venture of Deborah Thiagarajan and her associates from the Madras Craft Foundation. Dakshinachitra is an amazing place to visit, as various kinds of traditional houses have been transported to Chennai from interior parts of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala and rebuilt here piece by piece. Mahabalipuram: The internationally recognized heritage monument of our country, personifying the art and culture of the Pallava kings. One of the most famous temples here is the Shore Temple and is next to the beach. If coming from Chennai ensure you reach this temple between 6AM to 6PM, as it is shut down after 6PM. Also, keep in mind that it takes roughly an hour to reach Mahabalipuram from Chennai. Hotels and Restaurants in ECR: The ECR road abounds with restaurants and eating spots, which offer a wide range of cuisines and tasteful ambience. And you can plan your dinner or lunch in one of these hotels. A few of the food outlets are listed below: -Basera -Blue Lagoon -Thanjavur Restaurant -Food Village -Coastal Kitchen -Hot Kitchen. Beach Resorts: Another convenience that is found in plenty on the East Coast Road is the presence of several comfortable, pleasing, beach resorts, which enable you to take a break, and enjoy a seaside environment. Take your pick from those mentioned below: -Buena Vista -Blue Lagoon -Green Country Resort -Fisherman's Cove -Casuarina Bay Drive your way to fun and thrill. But be prepared to pay a small toll fee on the East Coast Road. • Pondicherry — Go on a spiritual trip or volunteer at Auroville an experimental township with no religion or politics. The drive down the East Coast Road (ECR) is delightful, with lovely beaches all along the way, and on the way you can stop over at... • Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram) There are several things to see on the way and in Mamallapuram 60 km south of Chennai. • Hill stations of Tamil Nadu, including Ooty and Kodaikanal • Kanyakumari — Site of the famous Vivekananda memorial. Temples South India is famous for its temples. Even if you aren't on a pilgrimage, these are worth a visit if you are interested in grand buildings and architecture. There are 33,000 temples in and around Chennai. Some of them are • Chidambaram — Approximately 250 kms from Chennai. The famous Lord Nataraja temple which has the golden roof for the moolavar which was offered by "Parantaka Chola I". • Tiruvallur — Approximately 45 kms from Chennai. It is famous for its Vaidhya Veera raghava Swami Temple and Sri Viswaroopa Panchamukha Anjaneya Swami Ashram which has a 40 ft tall Murti of Hanuman. • Tirupati — Approximately 150 kms from Chennai, in the state of Andhra Pradesh. • Madurai— Home to the famous Meenakshi temple. • Tirunelveli— Home to the TamilNadu's largest Shiva Temple , "Nellaiappar Temple". • Swamithoppe— Ayya Vaikundar Pathi, religious head quarters of Ayyavazhi. • Kanchipuram — Kamakshi temple, seat of one of the Shankaracharyas - the closest Hinduism comes to a spiritual head. • Thanjavur — Brihadeswara temple (Big Temple). • Tiruvannamalai — Arunachala Temple famous for full moon day girivalam and Deepam • Tiruchirapalli — It's situated 350 kms south of chennai.By NH45 Trichy can be reached in 5-6 hrs and it has lot of attractions including the Srirangam temple (Sri Renganathar),Ucchi Pillayar (Rock Fort temple) and the river Cauvery. Dance - Chennai is home to the distinct dance form- the Bharat Natyam. Bharatanatyam is the celebration of the eternal universe through the celebration of the beauty of the body. This is done through its tenets of having a perfectly erect posture, a straight and pout curving stomach, a well rounded and proportionate body mass- to the body structure, very long hair and curvaceous hips. These tenets bring to life the philosophy of Natyashastra, ‘Angikam bhuvanam yasya’ (The body is your world). This is elaborated in the araimandi posture, wherein the performer assumes a half sitting position with the knees turned sideways, with a very erect posture. In this fundamental posture of the Bharatanatyam dance, the distance between the head and the navel becomes equal to that between the earth and the navel. In a similar way the distance between the outstretched right arm to the outstretched left arm becomes equal to the distance between the head and the feet, thus representing the "Natyapurusha", the embodiment of life and creation. Climate Climate of Chennai is Tropical. Chennai has mainly two seasons summer (35-42°C / 95-108°F) AprilJune (Highest temperature ever recorded is 45°C / 113°F on May 30, 2003) and monsoon (OctoberDecember). It receives scanty rainfall from the south-west monsoon (JuneSeptember), but gets its bountiful rains from the north-east monsoon from October through December, thus amounting to about 125-150 cm (49-59 in) of rainfall annually. Rainfalls occur usually from October to December. During some seasons, Chennai gets ample amount of rainfall if there are depressions in Bay of Bengal. December to February are the mildest months temperature - (19-28°C / 6682°F). Climate is humid pretty much throughout the year because the city is on the coast. Summers are very hot and humid. Be sure take along light (not flimsy) clothing. Talk Tamil is the official language in • 40 www.fijitimescanada.com Toyota shows evolutionary Camry Friday June 1, 2012 2012 Toyota Camry "The all new 2012 Toyota Camry features evolutionary styling for it’s five (LE, XLE, SE and Hybrid LE and XLE), taking a step towards sophistication while retaining many of the cues that have made it the continental top pick for 13 of the past 14 years. Driving dynamics and cabin quietness have also been improved in what has become the yardstick for the mid-sized class." The seventh generation cars feature mild differences to differentiate between models – chrome accented rocker panel mouldings on LE and XLE, split lower intake and exclusive grille on SE, fog lights on XLE and SE, integrated rear spoiler on SE. Three powertrain choices have been enhanced to provide better fuel economy and more responsive performance. The 2.5-litre fourcylinder variable valve timed engine now offers 178 horsepower (up nine from last year) and 170 lb.-ft. of torque, the 3.5-litre V6 (available in the SE and XLE), delivers 268 and 248, respectively, and the Hybrid’s new Atkinson Cycle 2.5-litre “four” delivers a net 200 hp. Regular LE, XLE and SE models come standard with a six-speed automatic transmission that offers a sequential manual shift mode (via paddles on the SE, which also adds a rev-matching throttle blip on downshifts), while the Hybrids get a continuously variable unit. Power steering is electrically driven (variable according to speed and steering input) and on the Hybrid models, air-conditioning is also electrically driven to insure operation at times when the engine is shut down. Compacting the size of the Hybrids’ nickel metal hydrid battery and moving the DC/DC converter to the engine compartment results in more trunk space. Hybrids also feature new 17-inch lower rolling resistance tires, for further improvements in fuel economy, and an improved electric only (EV) mode that allows the vehicle to travel up to 2.5 km at speeds less than 40 km/h, while an ECO mode optimizes throttle response and a/c output to benefit economy. Ride and handling is entrusted to a front Macpherson strut, rear dual link strut suspension set-up, with springs, bushings, and shock damping and stabilizer thickness all revised. The SE gets specific suspension components and tuning to benefit sportier handling. Inside, there’s a new dashboard design, redesigned and repositioned seats (front seats were moved forward and rears rearward for a gain of 15 mm) and leaner pillar trim to enhance space and spatial perception. The front seatbacks were reshaped to add to rear seat knee room (improved 45 mm) and the standard rear 60/40 split folding seatback has releases in the trunk. Soft touch materials were added to the instrument panel, door trim and centre console for improved occupant comfort. Bluetooth connectivity is standard, as is a 6.1-inch screen for the standard audio system with six speakers and a USB port. Heated seats (where available) feature variable temperature control. All 2012 Camry models are equipped with 10 standard airbags (dual front, dual front knee, front and rear seatmounted side-impact and full side air curtains) as part of Toyota’s Star safety system (which also includes stability control, traction control, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist and brake override). Tire pressure monitors are also standard. Improved Used Vehicle History Reports Key To Successful Protection For Consumers Vehicle Sales Authority encourages consumers to do their due diligence Vancouver, BC - ICBC`s inclusion of more comprehensive information in their vehicle claims history report (VCHR) improves an important buying tool for consumers, according to the Motor Vehicle Sales Authority of British Columbia (VSA). In addition to providing a record of any damage claims filed on a vehicle with ICBC (including the type of claim, the date and amount of the filing, as well as the vehicle's current status), a VCHR will now specify the primary area of damage as well as any outstanding claims orestimates for repairs. Previously, there was a $15 fee for the basic online report plus an additional $17 charge to access the detailed damage estimate, which would take an additional 24-48 hours to obtain. ICBC is now makingall information available online for $20. While this is a positive step forward, the ICBC service does have limitations for a significant portion of vehicles available across British Columbia, according to Doug Longhurst, Director of Communications for the VSA. "ICBC history reportsdo not to include claims information from outside the province or claims handled solely by private insurers," warns Longhurst. "Approximately 17% of all vehicles in BC have been registered in other jurisdictions, while at least 17% utilize private insurance.” Vehicle history reports are provided by the dealer as a best practice. If one is not provided, be sure to obtain your own. A comprehensive report, like CarProof, will provide information that may be missing from the ICBC report. Because a vehicle history report does not include information about the mechanical condition of a vehicle, the ideal course of action is to obtain a professionalmechanical inspection, either from the dealer or via an independent mechanic. "Consumers should request all the information a dealer has available and make their criteria and priorities known at the get go," explains Longhurst. "At the end of the day, consumers areadvised to protect their interests by becoming active participants in all negotiations." The VSA is provincially mandated to license dealerships and salespeople in addition to offering consumer information and dispute resolution services. We Repair ALL Makes & Models of Vehicles FLEETWOOD BRAKE & MUFFLER LTD. -- Complete Automotive Repairs - Cars & Light Trucks -GOVERNMENT CERTIFIED TECHNICIANS PROUDLY SERVING THE COMMUNITY SINCE 1989 Suspension Repair • Tune Ups • Brakes • Air Conditioning Electrical • Transmission Service • Oil Change Wheel Balancing • Tires • Air Care Repairs New Vehicle Maintenance • Mufflers • Clutches Towing Available Across from Fleetwood Islamic Center #107-8468 162 Street, Surrey, BC 604-597-9466 www.fijitimescanada.com Friday June 1, 2012 41 No Film With Priyanka Again, Gauri Asks Shah Rukh Naazreen Ali 604-306-9810 Email:
[email protected] If you love Priyanka Chopra and Shah Rukh Khan’s on-screen pairing and their chemistry and waiting for another offering from the duo then put a full stop on their wish as there is totally no chance of the duo to come together again. After the rumor of their affair surfaced, Gauri Khan has forwarded a book rule for Shah Rukh and Priyanka. The book rule said that Shah Rukh will never work with Piggy Chops again. If you are stunned to see Priyanka at Karan Johar’s birthday bash after the recent spat between the two then here is the reason what made Karan invite the actress to his bash. According to the latest report, Farah Akhtar played a peacemaker between the actress and the filmmaker. Farah convinced Karan to bury the hatchet and reconcile with her. But before making a final call to Priyanka, he asked Gauri whether he should invite her to the bash or not. Gauri agreed on certain condition. She said that at the bash SRK and Priyanka should simply share pleasantries and do not dare to be close and in future Shah Rukh should not work with Priyanka again. Well, there is no hope to see them together again. Shah Rukh and Priyanka were seen in blockbuster ‘Don’ and ‘Don 2’ Aishwarya Rai At Cannes! We finally get to see Aishwarya Rai at the 65th Cannes film festival. The actress, as reported, was dressed in a traditional Indian ethnic wear. It was designed by Abu Jani-Sandeep Khosla. The actress attended the gala L’Oreal amfAR party on May 24. Describing her outfit, Ash wore a burnt orange full sleeves blouse, with a little of red and green, here and there. The white chikankari sari was way beyond beautiful. Aishwarya Rai completed her look with minimal makeup, tied hair do with a thin golden band adorning her head. She looked classy and elegant. The bash was filled with stars from all over. The bash was held to raise money for AIDS research, at Hotel du CapEden-Roc in Antibes, France. Aishwarya looked awesome and definitely lived up to her fans expectations. The second look of the beauty queen was when she attended a media call; in a breezy Angelo Katsapis shaded dress. She yet again looked stunning. Perfect choice for a bright sunny day. 42 www.fijitimescanada.com Friday June 1, 2012 PATIOS & RAILINGS LTD. All Season’s • Patio Covers • Gates & Fences • Power Gates • Sunrooms • Glass Railings Quality Work & Free Estimates RON phone: 778.926.7854 fax: 604.594.7854 www.allseasonpatios.com
[email protected] www.fijitimescanada.com Friday June 1, 2012 43 FIJI SENIOR’S SOCIETY OF CANADA Social Gatherings at 1pm - Last Sunday of each Month at SHRI VENKATESHWARA MAHA VISHNU TEMPLE 9326 - 116th Street, Delta, BC Bhan Mati Raj 604-581-9859 Kapil Vilas 604-590-1918 Bhan Pratap 604-839-5106 James Kumar 604-599-9518 Satya Nand 604-590-5303 Thakur Kuar Singh 604-587-5439 Fiji Canada Association Senior Citizen's Branch June 10th 2012 July 22nd 2012 Seniors Meeting Schedule 13629 108th Avenue Surrey BC For membership contact: FCA Hall 1:30PM - 5:00PM 1:30PM - 5:00PM Subhas Chandra 604.433.4298 N.Tejram 604.540.7009 To get the best value for your dollar Advertise in 604-909-4088 Toll Free: 1 866 840 2885 44 www.fijitimescanada.com Places of Worship Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 10am to 3pm 10am to 1pm, 5pm to 8pm 10am to 1pm, 5pm to 9pm 1pm to 7pm 10am to 1pm, 5pm to 8pm 10am to 1pm, 5pm to 9pm 10am to 1pm Friday June 1, 2012 SUBRAMANIYA SWAMY TEMPLE OF BC 8840 No. 5 Road, Richmond, BC 604.274.7906 TEMPLE HOURS SANATAN DHARM CULTURAL SOCIETY SHIV MANDIR 5600 DORSET STREET, BURNABY BC PH: 604 -254 -2624 HOURS OF OPER ATION Monday 5:30pm–9:00pm Tuesday 7:00pm–9:00pm Sunday 10:00am–12 noon Then India Sanmarga Ikya Sangam Educational and Cultural Society, BC, Canada (EST. 1982 – Incorporated S176969) For Pooja Booking Contact: Aiyaar Shivachariyar Sada Shiva 604.274.7906 COLEBROOK UNITED CHURCH 5441 - 125A St, Surrey B.C. Affiliated with Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada GOOD NEWS ASSEMBLY FOR JESUS SERVICE TIME SRI VENKATESHWARA MAHA VISHNU TEMPLE Temple hours Monday to Sunday Daily Aarthi Ramayan Katha 9326 - 116th Street, Delta, BC Morning 8:00am–10:00am Evening 6:00pm–8:00pm 7:00pm Friday 6:00pm–10:00pm pooja/special prayer sessions/Temple/hall PT. Shiu Madri 604.582.4899 PUJARI Soma Sundaran 604.363.7180 maathar sangam Activities & Volunteers Shakuntala Naidu 604.576.4529 Treasurer: Muniappa Naidu 604.576.4529 1pm Sundays (Hindi & English) James Kumar 604-581-3191 (res) 604-599-9518 (work) Cecil Labon 604-572-4854 president: H.C. Gopal 604.290.1114 secretary: Ganesh Murti 604.315.3166 Hindi Punjabi Fraserview GosPel CHaPel sunday service 10:30 am–12:00 noon Service in Hindustani & Punjabi • Sunday School for Children 14630-107a avenue surrey bC v3r 1v1 Serving the community since 1972 If you’re looking for a place to belong or have been searching for answers to life’s questions or healing, come to our services or contact us. Allow us to introduce you to Jesus Christ and help you come into a full relationship with him. abhishek pentecostal assembly Sunday School/Worship Service: 1pm 11601-82nd Ave, Delta BC (604) 590-8836
[email protected] www.abhiskhekassembly.com Services are in Hindi and English Senior Pastor Rev. Samuel Krishna Pastor Santosh Raj 604-582-2650
[email protected] ASIAN CHRIST CHURCH OF CANADA Rev. Emmanuel Cheema 778-241-9066
[email protected] Sunday Service @ 5.30 p.m. (Hindi, Urdu, Punjabi & English) We pray for sickness, demon possessed & family problems. We have testimonies, come and see God’s great work. You are the light of the world, a city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. (Matthew 5: 11) 15964 88th Ave. Surrey, B.C. V4N IH5 467 E 11th Avenue, Vancouver BC V5T 2C8 Phone: 604.874.0175
[email protected] www.shreemahalakshmitemple.ca The Lakshmi VinayakaSthapana is celebrated every year on Victoria Day. On this day special Puja with Abhisheka and Alankara is offered to Shree Lakshmi Vinayaka followed by an exposition from Jai ganesha jai ganesha jai Aarti and Maha ‘Ganesha Purana’. Concluded withganesha devaa Prasad. Maataa jaakii paarvatii, pitaa mahaadevaa Eka danta dayaavanta, caara bhujaa dhaarii Devotees, please join the prayers and receive the blessings of the Divine Mother. Maathe sinduura sohai, muuse kii savaari Jai ganeshaa... Haro Om Andhana ko aankha deta Pandit Prameya Chaitanya Korhina ko kaayaa Baanjhana ko putra deta Shree Mahalakshmi Temple Nirdhana ko maayaa Jai ganeshaa... 21 Monday 10:00am Lakshmi Vinayaka Murthy Stahpana Day Paana Lakshmi Vinayaka 24 Thursday 7:00pm carhe, phuula carhe Japa Aura carhe mevaa 26 Saturday 6:00pm Hanuman Japa Ladduana ko bhoga lage Samita karen sevaa Jai ganesha... Shree Mahalakshmi Temple HINDI CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP #4-6468 King George Blvd, Surrey BC GANESH AARTI Sunday Service @ 2:00PM Uplifting Worship | Prayer for healing | Music (CD) Available Shailendra (Shal) Singh 604-596-7353 or 604-323-6506 |
[email protected] GLOBAL FIJIAN ASSEMBLIES Pastor Isimeli Lesi Korobasaga Affiliated with Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada Every Sunday 2–5PM @ People’s Full Gospel 14455 - 104th Ave., Surrey, BC Phone: 604.592.9001 • Cell: 778.938.2734 • Email:
[email protected] Programs in May 2012 NAYA JEEWAN CHURCH 38868 - 128th Street, Surrey BC Service Sundays 2:00pm Bible Study (Hindi & English) Wednesdays 7:30pm Prayer, Counselling & Visitations Available Pastor Eileen Reddy 604.543-8339 F I JIAN METHODIST UNI T E D C H U R C H ARYA SAMAJ SOCIETY OF BRITISH COLUMBIA (Registered under the Society Act Of BC. Registered Charity # 891336349) Ph: 604.593.5663 Pastor Sakaraia & Rev. Ema Karoi 12371 96 Avenue Surrey BC Sunday Service @ 6:00PM Join for Hawan, Pravachan and Satsangh followed by Preetibhoj Every Sunday 10:00 a.m.–12:00 noon Yoga, Pranayam & Meditation classes every Wednesday 7:00 p.m - 8:30 p.m. Contact Shobha Rae 604.874.9856 Hindi Classes Sunday 12:30 p.m. -1:30 p.m. Contact Madhu Varsney 604.222.1444 Hall rental also availabale. Contact Kushwakant Singh 604.328.5454 Arya Samaj Centre, 6884 Jubilee Ave., Burnaby, B.C. Pushp Kant Singh, President 604.437.7903 Jack Sundar, Secretary 604.541.9359 Kushwaha Kant Singh, Treasurer 604.328.5454 left to right, Rajeev Kumar, Kushwaha Kant Singh, Bob Yogendra Singh, Yatindra Singh, Gyanendra Sundar, Arvindh Gupta, Hari Varshney, Rishi Cheta, Satya Prakash Varshney, Jack Sundar and Manohar Naidu. Sitting Madhu Varshney, Standing on left Sashi Kumar on the right Savitri Devi Singh . www.fijitimescanada.com Friday June 1, 2012 45 Hartley Named Calgary Flames New Head Coach Jay Feaster had turned to an old friend to take over as head coach of the Calgary Flames. The Flames GM hired Bob Hartley Thursday morning to take over as bench boss, grabbing him away from the Montreal Canadiens. Hartley last coached in the NHL five years ago with the Atlanta Thrashers and has most recently helped the ZSC Lions of Switzerland’s National League A win a championship this season. Feaster and Hartley go back to 1997 where they were both with the Hershey Bears in the AHL. Hartley is the godfather to Feaster’s son Ryan. It seemed like a no-brainer that Hartley would be a strong candidate when the Flames decided not to renew Brent Sutter’s contract, but the Habs were also in pursuit of the former Colorado Avalanche head coach, who is bilingual. In five years with the Avs, Hartley led the team to a Stanley Cup title in 2001 and four divisional crowns. He’s also won a Calder Cup as the AHL champion. He takes over a Flames team that has missed the playoffs three straight seasons and looks to make at least one more run with veteran players such as Miikka Kiprusoff and Jarome Iginla still on board. Feaster feels Hartley is the man to take the Flames over the top. “Bob Hartley is a winner. Bob has won at every level he has coached, from the QMJHL to the AHL to the NHL to Switzerland, and we are confident he is going to continue his winning ways in Calgary,” Feaster said. “He is a tireless worker, an outstanding motivator, a great bench boss and game strategist; and a teacher at heart. Moreover, he is a great person as well. We look forward to Bob and his wife Micheline joining the Flames family, and to Bob taking our hockey club to the next level.” Hartley left the Avs in December 2002 and quickly joined the Thrashers, guiding that franchise to steady improvements every season until the 2006-07 campaign when the team won its first Southeast Division title. After a slow start in 2007-08, Hartley and the Thrashers parted ways and he spent a few seasons as an analyst on RDS — the French version of TSN. Last summer, he went to Switzerland, but he’s glad to be back in the NHL. “I would also like to express my appreciation to the ZSC Lions for the tremendous experience of coaching and living in Switzerland; and also complying with my wishes to depart TImes sporTs their organization for the Calgary Flames,” Hartley said in a statement. “It’s great to return to the League in a city, a community and an organization that has such an outstanding reputation and passion for hockey and success. I look forward to assuming my position and starting the preparation process for the 2012-13 season.” Coach Bob Hartley of ZSC Lion reacts during a Swiss ice hockey play-off game against SC Bern (SCB) at the Hallenstadion arena in Zurich Following UFC 146 this past Saturday night, UFC President Dana White announced that Vitor Belfort had suffered a broken hand in training and was forced to pull out of his UFC 147 bout against Wanderlei Silva. The two had spent time as opposing coaches on the first season of The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil. UFC 147 was set to be the culmination of the series, with the two fighters settling their long-time rivalry in the main event. Silva went on the attack and said that Belfort breaking his hand was disrespectful. Silva's thought process was that at the highest level, fighters have the best equipment and training available, so there is no reason to suffer any significant injuries while training. While Vitor has elected to remain quiet, his wife had some harsh words for Silva: The only thing Wanderlei can do is talk too much, he chickened out several times on fighting Vitor… and now he comes to talk my husband is ducking. If you doubt, the next opponent of Wand in UFC147 will beat the record of 40 sec of Vitor Belfort or Chris Leben 20 seconds hahahaha. UFC announced that Rich Franklin will step up and replace the injured Belfort. Franklin was originally Rich Franklin Steps In To Fight Wanderlei Silva At UFC 147 Dana White Is Not Going To Honor Prescriptions From Dr. Reefer Dana White turned heads a few weeks back when he said that the UFC is mapping out a strategy to begin randomly testing the fighters they have under contract. That's a stark difference from White's position as recently as a month ago, but it's the right one. As I've noted here in the past, the UFC introducing a random drug testing program would go a long, long way towards cleaning up the sport before it becomes an epidemic. And make no mistake about it: there is no epidemic. At least not yet, anyway. But it could become a real problem in the future, and taking steps to avoid that now is the right move. White was interviewed about the proposed drug testing policies by Ron Kruck from InsideMMA and gave his first real explanation of what the promotion has in mind. But if you're a pot smoker, White said, you're still out of luck: "It is what it is. You go out and you smoke marijuana, it's illegal. I don't care if 'Dr. Reefer' gave you a prescription for it, you absolutely, positively cannot do it, according to the rules of the Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC). I don't care how many lawyers you get or what happens, you cannot smoke marijuana. You cannot take PEDs. There's a whole list of things that you cannot do, and if you get caught doing these things, you will be fined, and you will be put on suspension." I don't know who Dr. Reefer is, but he sounds sketchy and I probably wouldn't go to him for any kind of medical advice. scheduled to face Cung Le at UFC 148. Franklin and Silva have met once before at a bout contested at 195 pounds which fans have affectionately called "Franklinweight." That bout saw Franklin win a hard decision at UFC 99 in Cologne, Germany. The rematch will be contested at 190 pounds, which from this day forward shall be called "Wanderleight." Rich Franklin stepping up is the best possible outcome as most middleweight and light heavyweight fighters currently have fights scheduled. The ones that don't are either injured or lack the name value to step into the main event role. While I appreciate the UFC's effort at trying to save UFC 147, I can't help but feel that a bout between Franklin and Wanderlei lacks any kind of intrigue. There was no controversy in their first fight and both fighters are on the tail end of their storied careers. I hope that this fight becomes another example of an unremarkable contest on paper becoming a candidate for Fight of the Year, as is usually the case in MMA. I say this because as it currently stands, UFC 147 may be the weakest card the UFC has tried to put together in the past four years. Time will tell. I just hope that Zuffa is ready to handle detractors who won't be pleased with this matchup. Niagara IceDogs overage forward Alex Friesen signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the Vancouver Canucks. The Canucks needed to sign Friesen, a sixth-round pick in 2010, before Friday or he would have been free to sign with Canucks Sign Friesen any other NHL club. In 62 games with the IceDogs this season, his fifth in the OHL, the 5-foot10, 189-pound Friesen had 26 goals and 45 assists. He added eight goals and 14 assists in 20 playoff games. Read the Fiji Times Canada online www.fijitimescanada.com 46 www.fijitimescanada.com Friday June 1, 2012 TImes sporTs AG Wishes Fiji Team Well In Soccer World Cup Qualifiers The Attorney General Aiyaz SayedKhaiyum has called on the national side to give their best during the 2014 World Cup qualifiers which gets underway in the Solomon Islands early next month. He made the comments at the Suva soccer’s Fiji FACT victory celebrations in the Capital City. Government promotes and values the role sports play in nation building said Mr Sayed – Khaiyum. “Towards this end, Government has put forward a number of incentives in the 2012 National Budget which includes zero per cent duty on sports gear and equipment.” The sporting fraternity including soccer should take advantage of these incentives to further promote and develop their respective sports. “Sports is now a career path for many and soccer is a multibillion dollar industry played by millionaires and there is talent in Fiji to produce stars.” In saluting Suva’s win, Mr Sayed- Khaiyum said Fiji looks forward to utilizing sports as a vehicle to promote healthy living through friendly competitions at the same time produce future stars. Meanwhile, the victorious Suva soccer team will appear in a national television advertisement with the Fiji rugby team. The television advertisement will see the soccer side and the flying Fijians educating the public on voter registration. 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