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Technology For Better Sugar QualityPrime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama hopes to meet with India's Prime Minister Manmohan Singh or Cabinet ministers of the Indian government to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries.Commodore Bainimarama who is in Delhi for the International Sugar Organisation session also hopes to work on Fiji's multilateral relations with the rest of the ISO members.Commodore Bainimarama said this during a dinner hosted by the Fiji High Commission in New Delhi.ISO is a unique intergovernmental body devoted to improving conditions on the world's sugar market through debate, analysis, special studies, transparent statistics, seminars, conferences and workshops. ISO currently has 88 member countries.Commodore Bainimarama is the vice chairman of this year's session.The three-day meeting is chaired by Dr B C Gupta, secretary for the Department of Food and Public Distribution from the government of India.Fiji's delegation to the ISO are Ministry of Sugar permanent secretary Manasa Vaniqi, director sugar Viliame Gucake, Fiji Sugar Tribunal commissioner Timothy Brown, Sugar Cane Growers Council chief executive Sundresh Chetty, Fiji Sugar Corporation executive chairman Abdul Khan, Fiji High Commissioner in London Solo Mara and Fiji Embassy Brussels Counselor Nidhrendhra Singh.Meanwhile, Commodore Bainimarama also encouraged investors from India

to come and make the most of the investor friendly environment in Fiji.Addressing the members of the diplomatic corp and the business community in India at the dinner, Commodore Bainimarama said his government had brought in various strategic reforms to supplement such investments."Fiji as a developing nation has many opportunities for you to invest in," he

said.Commodore Bainimarama told the potential investors of the zero percentage fiscal duty on all manufacturing equipment and machinery and agricultural inputs brought into the country."I have met some entrepreneurs here and would like to invite you to invest in Fiji," said Commodore Bainimarama.

He briefed them of the government's reform on foreign policies to engage Fiji with new countries around the world."We stand to develop our bilateral relations more widely, based on transparency, through open dialogue for a more progressive and effective partnerships as declared in Fiji's guiding document, the People's Charter for Change, Peace and Progress," he said.

Expressing concern: Pranab Mukerjee, Union Finance Minister, along with Commander Voreqe Bainimarama, Prime Minister of Fiji and Vice-Chairman of International Sugar Organisation, during the 41st session of International Sugar Council in New Delhi on Tuesday

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PM Discusses Trade Relations With India

Fiji’s Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama met with Indian Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh this week to explore and strengthen bilateral trade relations.A government statement said Dr Singh also congratulated Bainimarama on the “bold, imaginative steps” taken since 2006, and wished Fiji well in the formulation of a new constitution and elections in 2014.

Bainimarama, who is also the vice chairman of International Sugar Council, took part in the opening ceremony of the ISO's 41st meeting at the Ashoka Hotel in New Delhi, India.He also visited ten Fijian women who are training to become solar engineers in India.The trainees are from Cakaudrove, Macuata, Bua, Ba and will be training for six months at Barefoot College

Ground Breaking Ceremony For Fiji’s First Luxury Casino

The groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of Fiji's first luxury casino and convention centre sets the foundation for what will become one of the biggest revenue earners for the country. Taking place at Denarau Island where the centre will be constructed, the event demonstrates the commitment by the Fijian government to improve the lives of all Fijians.Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama who officiated at the ceremony highlighted the enormous potential that the event would contribute to Fiji’s economy. “My government’s priority is to provide for the prosperity for our nation and to build livelihoods”, Prime Minister Bainimarama told guests who included officials from Fiji’s tourism and aviation sector. With an expected completion date of September 2013, the $290 million dollar investment will diversify Fiji's tourism industry. Already an internationally-renowned resort and vacation destination, Denarau Island will now have the capacity to host large conventions and events, welcoming a more dynamic range of entertainment and activity. A project launched in collaboration with One Hundred Sands, this casino and convention centre will create 900 jobs for completion of construction,

and 700 more jobs once the casino, convention centre, and hotel are complete. “One Hundred Sands brings with it professionalism and high standards. It is a USA investment together with Native American shareholding”, Prime Minister Bainimarama said. Building on Government's commitment to delivering tertiary education and vocational training to rural areas and outer islands, this casino and convention centre will provide opportunities for sustainable employment to Fijians.As addressed by Prime Minister Bainimarama, transparency, compliance, and professionalism will be the principles with which this project will be completed. The date for the expected opening ceremony is October 1, 2013.

Upgrading Of Nadi AirportOver the next year, Fiji will be focusing on upgrading Nadi International Airport to ensure it remains attractive and modern says Attorney-General and Minister for Civil Aviation Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum.Sayed-Khaiyum met with more than 150 representatives of companies from Airports Fiji Limited (AFL) to discuss the modernisation of Fiji’s airports and the recently passed Airports (Development and Modernization) Decree 2012.He also discussed how the decree offers AFL, its tenants and concessionaires a clean slate, ensuring a future that provides certainty, transparency, and adequate funding—helping to upgrade and modernize Nadi International Airport, as well as Fiji’s 14 other airports.The decree will also allow the AFL and its tenants and concessionaires to put in place a tender process for concessions that is transparent, fair and equitable.He said the effect of the Airports decree will be to convert all existing concessions and tenancies, actual and purported to be temporary for one year.Sayed-Khaiyum said these existing

concessionaires and tenants will be offered proper and legally binding agreements based on market rates determined by international best practices.He said if the offers are not accepted, they will then be open to others.The move, Sayed-Khaiyum said will ensure the airport is appropriately compensated by commercial entities that benefit from the prime retail location.“It will further correct practices by previous governments that lacked transparency in how they conducted the tender process and formed agreements. Now, transparency in handling tenders will ensure fairness for all Fijian businesses.” The modernizations and upgrades are slated to be complete within a year.

Business Travellers Top ListFIJI recorded an increase in business travellers to the country in February compared to arrivals in January.And while the largest number of visitors to the country listed their reason for travel as holiday, the Fiji Bureau of Statistics February visitor arrivals report revealed a swell in arrival for official conferences, education and training purposes.According to the bureau, 1952 visitors arrived for business in February against 1221 for January.In February last year, there were 2147 business visitors to the country against 1857 in 2010.The bureau said 1003 visitors arrived for education and training in February - the largest for any one month since

2010. In January this year, there were 865 visitors who came for the purposes of education and training.But the largest number of visitors to the country in February - an estimated 25,428 - came for holiday, the bureau said.This, however, marked the lowest holiday arrival for any one month since February 2010 when the number of visitors on holiday was 24,467.The bureau noted a decline in arrival for those that visited friends and relatives.At 3180 in February, the figure was the lowest for any one month during the last two years.The total visitor arrivals for February were 37,399 - the lowest for any one month in the past two years.

300 Pensioners Payment Held BackFiji National Provident Fund (FNPF) has held back 300 payments because of insufficient documentation provided by pensioners.FNPF chief executive Aisake Taito said those who have adhered to requirements have been paid out and those on hold have been queried for various reasons such as lack of information for payment.Taito said they have paid out over $50 million over the last few days from April 16 this year.

He said they will continue to place a high priority on the payments to the second group of pensioners, who chose an option after March and they intend to pay these pensioners by next week provided they adhere to all FNPF requirements.He again apologized to all pensioners for the delay.FNPF is expecting to pay out about $100 million in both lump sum and pension options for 9600 pensioners this month.




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NZ Expert - Our Coffee Is High ClassNew Zealand Welcomes Opportunity

for Direct Talks with Fiji New Zealand Foreign Minister Murray McCully is to join a high-level Pacific Islands Forum visit to Fiji next week to discuss the island nation's transition from military to civilian rule, a government statement reported Thursday. McCully, who is to travel to Suva on Monday as a member of the forum's Ministerial Contact Group (MCG) thanked the Fiji administration for its agreement to the MCG visit. "This visit will enable the MCG to resume direct dialogue with Fiji after a significant interval," McCully said in a statement. As the forum chair, New Zealand placed high importance on the maintenance of dialogue and engagement with Fiji, which has been subject to Pacific-wide sanctions after a military-led coup in 2006. "Next week's meeting comes at a pivotal time for Fiji and following a number of positive developments. This includes the decision to commence voter registration, the establishment of the Constitutional Commission, and the commencement of a public dialogue on the shape of the constitution on which elections can be held. These are

all constructive moves which I have welcomed on New Zealand's behalf," said McCully. "The MCG discussions will give us an opportunity to see how we can assist in achieving further progress," he added. In March, McCully said that New Zealand was not ready to lift sanctions, such as a travel ban, after Fiji Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama announced consultations between the Constitutional Commission and the people of Fiji would take place between July and September. McCully said New Zealand needed to help Fiji put in place free and fair elections by assisting with public education programs. Fiji's new constitution is expected to be adopted in March 2013. In January, the New Zealand government welcomed the lifting of emergency regulations, which the Fijian government had used to rule since 2009, as an important step towards the holding of elections in Fiji.Bainimarama announced in his New Year address an end to the Public Emergency Regulations from January 7th.

Miss World Fiji Not Native Enough?

There's uproar in Fiji after at 16-year-old girl won the Miss World Fiji competition with some people saying she doesn't look native enough.Some are blaming the judges, such as New Zealand-born model Rachel Hunter and other non-Fijian judges, for the girl's win.The administrators of the Miss World Fiji Facebook page have been accused of deleting negative comments."While we appreciate a healthy discussion/feedback on our page, violent or racist comments will not be tolerated and such comments will be deleted," the administrators wrote.On Wednesday, another note asked people to support the winner, Torika Watters, who took the title last weekend.

Watters is of mixed European-Fijian heritage."In the last few days, there has been nothing but negative criticism and remarks from our own people," the message said. "Why not start supporting our ambassador, building her up, and praying that she impacts the world with her story. Fiji has received enough negative press already; shouldn't this be one for making up for lost ground? Our forefathers promoted unity and respect and sadly in our own society today, this is not evident with the many who call themselves proud Fijians."Watters will compete in the Miss World competition on August 18 in Ordos, Inner Mongolia.

Torika Watters, 16, won the Miss World Fiji competition

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6

Chinese Miner Chases Fiji Gold CHINA has taken a shine to Fiji's Vatukoula goldmine on the nation's main island Viti Levu, giving Fiji's Prime Minister,

Frank Bainimarama, a victory on the foreign investment front.

The move comes as anti-mining protests have prompted Australia's biggest listed gold producer, Newcrest, to go softly softly on what would be Fiji's biggest mining investment, the Namosi gold project.The owner of the Vatukoula mine, London-listed Vatukoula Gold Mines, has struck a deal with Shenzhen stock exchange-traded Zhongrun Resources, under which the Chinese group can march to a dominant 17.6 per cent stake in the company for $19.3 million.The planned share placements to Zhongrun would displace Canadian fund manager Sprott Asset management as VGM's biggest shareholder and comes as VGM seeks funding to increase production from a planned 65,000 ounces of gold this year to 100,000oz from a resource base of 4.2 million ounces.The large resource base is despite the mine having been in near continuous production since 1935.For much of that time it was owned and operated by Australia's Emperor Mines, which introduced Western Mining Corporation as a joint-venture partner in the 1980s.After WMC quit the joint venture in 1991 the mine fell on hard times, and its ownership bounced from Australia/

New Zealand to South Africa to London, with VGM, and, in part at least, China.The underground operations were hit by recent floods in Fiji, although production targets for this year have been maintained.Chinese interest in Vatukoula comes as Newcrest has adopted a slower approach to the development of its $1 billion-plus Namosi copper and gold project, 30km west of Fiji's capital Suva.Commodore Bainimarama announced in January that he would be taking over responsibility for negotiations related

to the Namosi project.Newcrest manages and owns 69.94 per cent of the joint venture, one of the world's biggest undeveloped copper-gold deposits that is subject to an environmental impact assessment.Newcrest has said previously that it expects to complete a feasibility study for the project by June, but it backed away from that target Wednesday.Newcrest managing director Greg Robinson confirmed that Namosi was in the pre-feasibility study stage, and said he was "still very positive" about the project."

Training Plane Overturns, No Injuries: AFLNo one was injured after a Cessna 150 training airplane overturned while trying to land at the Nausori International Airport.Airports Fiji Limited general manager Lawrence Liew said there was only one training pilot onboard.Liew said the plane was flying from Nadi and had experienced problems in landing.He said this has caused a temporary closure of the runaway and it will be

open again after a careful investigation is made.AFL is currently assessing the damage.

Exotic Location Attracts Bollywood

Producer To Fiji A producer from Bollywood who is currently shooting his film in Fiji said he has chosen Fiji because of its exotic locations and the government’s support. Ravi Ahlawat said they have many locals working for his 7th film called Supermodel which has a budget of $2.5 million.

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Hibiscus Requirements For 2012 Entry

The ball has started rolling for this year’s Vodafone Fiji Hibiscus Festival and organizers as well as aspiring contestants are preparing for a bigger, better year.The Hibiscus Event Group (HEGI) executive secretary Aqela Cakobau said: “We hope to carry out auditions in the next two weeks. All applicants will be notified of date, venue and time of audition.”Contestant groups will have to choose to embark on a community project well before the festival begins. “Each contestant group will be required to carry out a community-based project and in the past this has included certain upgrading projects at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital, assisting at the Happy Home Centre for young boys to name a few,” Ms Cakobau said.Here are some contestant requirement guidelines to follow: Queensa) must be between 18 – 25 yearsb) must be a Fiji citizenc) must have never been married and has never given birth to a child.

Kinga) aged between 20 – 30 yearsb) a Fiji citizen – however, if not a citizen, then applicant must have been living in Fiji for over five yearsc) must have never been married nor be a single fatherLadiesa) open to single mothers and married ladies who are 18 years and above.b) if single, must be 26 years and abovec) a Fiji citizen – however, if not a citizen, then applicant must have been residing in Fiji for over five yearsTeens (females only)a) for teenagers aged between 14 – 17 yearsb) a Fiji citizen, again, if not a citizen then must have been residing in Fiji for over five yearsc) must have parental or guardian supportPrince and Princessa) aged between 8 – 10 years oldb) must have parental or guardians supportc) Fiji citizen. If non-citizen must have been residing in Fiji for over one year

FMF Applauds Government’s ‘Fiji Made’ And ‘Buy Fijian’ Initiative

The months of April and May of have been declared ‘manufacturing month’ to reiterate the Fijian Government’s ‘Fiji Made’ and ‘Buy Fijian’ initiatives. Certain companies have now been licensed to carry the Fijian Made emblem and one such company is FMF Foods Limited.Formerly known as Flour Mills of Fiji Limited, the company has a variety products currently being sold in the local market as well as in 20 countries including Australia, New Zealand, Canada, USA and all Pacific Island countries.The FMF Group chief executive Ram Bajekal said: “Support for local industry and Fijian Made products is extremely important to all stakeholders in Fiji because consumption of Fijian Made products results in the creation of jobs within Fiji.”He said that whenever people in Fiji consume imported products they must remember that the money they are spending is creating jobs in other countries that may not even be helping Fiji.“The initiative by the Government to encourage consumption of Fijian Made products is extremely important. Through this campaign, the Government is seeking to create awareness amongst consumers about why it is important to consume Fijian products and create jobs within Fiji,” he said.

FMF was founded in 1973, initially to mill flour and sharps from wheat but has, over the years diversified into other food products as well.These include biscuits, breakfast crackers, potato and cassava chips, noodles, snacks, rice, peas, oil and bakery ingredients.Over 250 bakeries depend on their supply of flour to make a range of products like bread, buns and cakes. The company supplies cooking oil that is made from also Fiji grown copra.A subsidiary company of FMF, Biscuit Company of (Fiji) Limited (BCF), was incorporated in 1991 and is responsible for manufacturing the iconic FMF Breakfast Crackers.“Today, BCF employs 530 Fiji nationals in its production facility which has become a multi-million dollar one that caters for a vast variety of biscuits to a wide range of customers within Fiji and across the Pacific,” Mr Bajekal said.Atlantic Pacific Packaging Limited (AtPack), another subsidiary company of FMF, was established in 1998 primarily to provide in-house packaging solutions for the FMF Group’s products.It has now grown and acquired specialized machines that produce a range of boxes and corrugated cartons that serve customers not only in Fiji but Tonga, American Samoa, and New Caledonia.

Lucky Dube’s Band To Tour FijiThe band of the late South African reggae musician Lucky Dube is expected to tour Fiji next month.The One People Fiji Tour will have performances in Suva, Lautoka and for the first time in Labasa.The tour is organised by the Sisters Event Group in conjunction with

Superstars International Senate.Lucky Dube recorded 22 albums in Zulu, English and Afrikaans during a 25-year period and was South Africa's biggest selling reggae artist.He was murdered in the Johannesburg suburb of Rosettenville on the evening of October 18, 2007

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Decrease In Migration The number of Fiji citizens that emigrated in February dropped to 320 compared to 482 for January, the Fiji Bureau of Statistics has revealed.And the majority that emigrated - 123 Fiji citizens in February - were listed under the "others" occupation, followed by 98 professional workers, and 49 in elementary occupation, the bureau said in its February visitor arrivals report.The report, released on April 12, stated 11 Fiji citizens that emigrated in February were technicians, 11 others were clerical workers, nine were crafts people and related workers, and nine others were legislators, senior officials and managers.While visitor arrivals from Australia made up 40 per cent or 16,834 of the total visitor arrival of 37,399 in February, the average length of stay was 9.3 days compared to Pacific

islanders who stayed the longest on an average of 15.7 days, the bureau said.The bureau said 3250 Pacific islanders arrived in the country in February against 3583 in January.Visitors from the US - who made up the second largest number of visitors to the country in February - had the shortest average stay duration of 7.7 days.According to the bureau, the average length of stay for visitor arrivals in February was:- 12.9 days for visitors from Canada;- 10.7 days for visitors from Japan; and- 10.2 days for visitors from New Zealand.For the same period, the bureau also noted that there were 10,181 resident arrivals, 9381 resident departure, 4282 air transit passengers and 15,085 cruise ship passengers.

26% Live Below Poverty LineA recent survey had indicated there is a big increase in poverty in the rural areas.Commissioner Eastern Lieutenant Colonel Netani Rika said those below the poverty line is measured as average households of four members who earn less than $155 a week.He said while household incomes had gone up, there was also a disparity with rural incomes increasing by about 14 per cent and urban incomes by 27 per cent.Therefore, he said, it is essential that government and key stakeholders come up with ways to curb the increased poverty in rural areas.Lt Col Rika also told the meeting the

proportion of the Fiji’s population living in rural areas has been decreasing gradually.“The decrease is mainly caused by urban drift,” he said.The rural population had dropped from 62 per cent in 1986 and 53 per cent in 1996 to 49 per cent in 2007.Lt Col Rika said this is a worrying trend for Fiji, and they hoped to reverse this with more development in rural areas.The board’s main target is to improve technology in the villages in the Eastern Division, improve schools and infrastructure to attract young people to stay in rural areas as they are the most vulnerable to urban drift.

198 Still Remain In Evacuation Centre

A total of 198 people remain in the lone active evacuation centre in Nabau Village in Fiji's Western Division.DISMAC director Pajiliai Dobui said the village hall is being used to shelter 48 families.Dobui said the evacuees will leave once

they are ready to rebuild their houses.The recent floods forced the activation of about 200 evacuation centres in the Western and Central Division.Meanwhile, DISMAC says it is still waiting for flood damage assessments

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Times Fiji News 11

Human Care BC SocietyHelps Flood Victims In Fiji

Human Care BC Society chief, .Adam Bukshencounter positive response towards help for flood victims in Fiji Island

By Hassan Mallam

Mr. Adam Buksh, President of the newly formulated organization in Vancouver, The Human Care BC Society has taken a trip to Fiji prior to the arrival of shipment which carried a container with 170 boxes of clothing, 310 Food Hampers, 15 bags of bed sheets and 12 boxes of assorted shoes for the victims of recent flood which devastated many parts especially in the Western Viti Levu.The Vice President of the HCBC Society, Mr. Irshad Mohammed said Adam's presence in Fiji as our representative is to co-ordinate the distribution and to liaise with the local authorities to streamline the process for our present and future shipments.Mr. Adam Buksh responding from Fiji said our strategy dispatching of clothes and food hampers to Muslims, Hindus, Christians and Food Vouchers to the Fijian families has really caught their attention and their inspiration were obvious. This will certainly give HCBC Society glaring tags. He said I am indeed thankful and grateful to Allah Ta'aala that He has given me and to my associates here so nice people from whom we received great help. The

Permanent Secretary was handed with all necessary documents in regards to the consignments to study and now he gave his approval for distribution.A similar meeting was also conducted on Monday 23rd April between Mr. Adam Buksh, Army Chief and Commissioner West. That also resulted in favour of the Society as container which arrived in Fiji was handed out without any tags attached.Mr. Adam Buksh said without any waste in time I hired 3 trucks and with the help of Army Officers we moved the items to the Modern Electric Warehouse for storage. In Nadi 1500 home addresses of those who need help were obtained. We have visited affected areas, believe me the scenes are remorseful.Mr. Irshad Mohammed said Mr. Adam Buksh spoke to the Mandir authorities, Muslim Organizations in Lautoka and Ba and made all arrangements to drop clothes in Schools, Mandirs and Indian Cultural Centres so that they could make appropriate disposition and distribute to those who are facing the hardship. We have been given all assurance of unbiased distribution.

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Hotels, Guests Out-Green The World

Four hotels have signed up with local communities to plant trees during the annual Earth Guest Day or Planet 21 day.The four hotels - properties of the world's leading business operators Accor - are Novotel Suva Lami Bay, Mercure Nadi, Novotel Nadi and Sofitel Resort and Spa in Nadi.Novotel Suva Lami Bay general manager Simon Harper signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Lami Town Council special administrator Jasper Singh."This MOU will ensure that the Novotel Suva Lami Bay will assist the council staff members in training the Lami Municipal Market vendors in recycling and create awareness with the council team on the benefits of reducing waste," Mr Harper said. Accor celebrates Earth Guest Day on the same day as International Earth Day, which is April 22. The MOU signing

ceremony in Suva signals Novotel Suva Lami Bay hotel's commitment to provide temporary landscaping training to the council staff members as well as training to all council workers on the importance of recycling and composting."In addition, the Novotel will provide flowers for planting to the council based on what they have available in their nursery," Mr Harper said.He said Planet 21 was a comprehensive sustainable development program that involved environmental, social and community support programs. He said Planet 21 covered the group's environmental, social and community investment actions.Through Planet 21, the four hotels join Accor's international owned and leased properties to implement a 15 per cent reduction in water consumption, 10 per cent decrease in energy use and 85 per cent use of eco-labeled products.



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Vietnam Envoy Presents Credentials

The non-resident Ambassador of Vietnam to Fiji, His Excellency Mr Nguyen Hong Cuong, a career diplomat who has spent the past six years as Director-General of the ASEAN Department of Vietnam’s Foreign Ministry presented his credentials to His Excellency the President, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau.

Ambassador Nguyen holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Diplomacy in Vietnam.Married with two children, Ambassador Nguyen has held previous appointments at Vietnamese diplomatic missions in Thailand, Indonesia and Australia.His Excellency Nguyen Hong Cuong will reside in Wellington, New Zealand.

Supreme Court Judge Sworn-In Justice Sundaram Sriskandarajah was sworn-in by His Excellency, the President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau into the Supreme Court of Fiji.Prior to this appointment, Justice Sriskandarajah was serving as a Judge in the Sri Lankan Court of Appeal.He holds a Masters Degree of Laws (LLM) after completing his Attorneys-at-Law degree in Sri Lanka and has practiced law since 1979.Justice Sriskandarajah has presided over several high profile cases in Sri Lanka and served in the Court of Criminal Appeal.He is married and has two children.

Charges DeniedA man appeared before the Suva Magistrates Court and pleaded not guilty to a number of charges.Avinesh Kumar Singh is charged with one count each of disorderly behaviour, resisting arrest, damaging property and escaping from lawful custody.The court heard that the alleged

offences were committed in Samabula on October 24, 2010.Singh pleaded not guilty after the charges were read out to him.The prosecution lawyer told the Chief Magistrate Usaia Ratuvili that full disclosures had been served.The case was adjourned to May 24.


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Fiji Ready For Yeosu Expo

The Fijian delegation is ready for the Yeosu Expo which will be held in Korea from May 12 to August 12 this year.Ministry of Industry and Trade permanent secretary Mr Shaheen Ali says Fiji’s participation has the potential to be as successful as the Shanghai Expo, held in China in 2010.The Yeosu Expo is anticipating the participation of more than 100 countries, 10 international organisations and 8

million visitors.‘The theme is linked to Human Kind’s knowledge of and adaptation to the oceans and the coasts and identifying ways to resolve the challenges faced by our environment in relation to trade and development practices,” Mr Ali said.“Fiji stands to gain immensely by participating at this world Expo as it will provide an opportunity to promote Fiji’s uniqueness to the world.”Fiji will also celebrate its National Day at the expo on July 21st.Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama will be participating at the National Day to further boost Fiji’s promotion.A trade and investment seminar will also be running concurrently with the Expo for trade officials to boost trade.

ANZAC Day CelebrationIt was an emotional morning for former Fiji citizen Joana Miles as she commemorated ANZAC Day.Miles lives in Australia and only travels to Fiji every year to remember her old friend Reginald Jones who was also a father figure to her.“I never miss this occasion because for me I know how important these men

were and also the important of the war,” Miles said.Miles told the media that she was looking after Jones, an Australian ex-serviceman who also served during the war at Gallipoli, and after he died he left everything to her.“This is why I am always emotional during this day as I remember all the good things he had done for me even though we were not blood-related,” she said.Speaking at the ceremony New Zealand acting Head of Mission Philip Taula said ANZAC Day is remembered because of the courage and bravery each Australian and New Zealand soldier who had served showed, and will be remembered.Australian acting High Commissioner Glen Miles said for Australians it is a day when they acknowledge the courage, mateship and, above all, the sacrifice demonstrated by Australians and New Zealanders in the face of great odds at Gallipoli.More than 200 people, along with members from the diplomatic corps and Fiji Returned Servicemen’s Association, gathered at the Australian High Commission to commemorate the day.ANZAC Day is celebrated every year on April 25.

Lieutenant Commander Birgitte Jensen lays a wreath during the ANZAC Day celebration at the

Australian High Commission in Suva

Aust Foreign Minister To Visit Fiji Australian Foreign Minister, Bob Carr will visit Fiji on Monday. Carr has confirmed that he will be part of the Forum Ministerial Contact Group that will arrive in the country next week. He will be speaking with

a wide range of people during his stay. He says he will be talking to people in the government to test whether they are authentic in their desire to see a proper constitutional arrangement and robustly free elections.

Drop In Home Sales Home sales have dropped in recent months, a survey of real estate agents has revealed.The Reserve Bank of Fiji in its March Economic Review stated house sales were down by 8.8 per cent and house prices down by 24.8 per cent.The RBF had said weak household wealth led to lower demand for homes.Icon Real Estate's Priscilla Singh said the real estate market is quite slow.Singh said the main reason is the recent flooding in the Western and Central Divisions.

Jokhan Real Estate also confirmed that real estate sales have been dropping over the past few months.However Harcourts Fiji Real Estate director Shivas Singh said house prices are stable although their sales volume is a bit lower.“In the areas where we specialize like the Suva area, property values are even increasing in some neighbourhoods,” Singh said.“We find that properties that are reasonably priced, well presented, and well marketed tend to sell easily,” he said.

Indian Government Donates To Kidney Foundation

High Commissioner of India, H.E. Mr. Vinod Kumar handed over a contribution of US$250,224 Mr. Dewan Chand Maharaj, Chairman, Kidney Foundation of Fiji, for purchase of dialysis machines and equipment for the Foundation's new Dialysis Centre. The equipment would include ten Haemodialysis machines, one Blood Volume Monitor, one Blood Temperature Module and one Reverse

Osmosis Water System. In addition to the equipment, the Government of India will also provide medicines from India worth Rs. 1 million, (approx US$20,000).Health is one of the focus areas of India's cooperation with Fiji. It is hoped that the Kidney Foundation of Fiji will be able to provide better services to the people of Fiji, especially to people who suffer from end stage kidney disease.


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PM Visits Barefoot College In Jaipur

Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama this week met with women from Fiji currently undergoing courses in India.The head of government met with 10 women from Fiji who were sent to India to undergo 6 months training as solar engineers at the Barefoot College in Rajasthan.Prime Minister Bainimarama who is India to attend the International Sugar Organisation conference also thanked the college for facilitating his meet with the women from Fiji.“Thank you for giving me this opportunity to meet with our ladies from Fiji who are being trained at the Barefoot College. After talking to the team here, I have no doubt, of the exciting projects that these trainees

will come up after their studies here”, Prime Minister Bainimarama said.The 10 trainees come from Cakaudrove, Macuata, Bua, Ba and this is one of the significant projects coordinated by the Ministry of Social Welfare, Women and Poverty Alleviation to empower women to become solar engineers in Fiji.Last year Mr Bunker Roy, the founder of Barefoot College visited Fiji and confirmed that the College has trained 300 women as solar engineers from the continents of Africa and through the partnership between Indian High Commission, Ministry of Women, UN Women, Fiji too will experience the same benefit once the 10 women return to solar electrify their villages.

Fiji Citizens Living Abroad Increase

More Fiji citizens living abroad arrived in the country in February this year compared to the corresponding period last year.This, as visitor arrival for February this year dropped by 0.7 per cent or 260 from 37,399 to 37,659 in February last year.The bureau said 4,397 Fiji passport holders permanently living abroad arrived in the country in February compared to 2,593 for the corresponding period last year.Visitor arrival from Australia and the US also increased for the same period, the Fiji Bureau of Statistics said.According to the bureau, there was a decrease in visitor arrival from Japan, the UK, China, New Zealand, Pacific Islands, Canada and Continental

Europe.Total arrivals for February increased from 47,539 in February last year to 47,580 in February this year, the bureau said.Total visitor arrival increased by 5.9 per cent between February last year and February this year, compared to its previous corresponding period, the bureau said.For the 12 month period ending in February this year, there was an increase in visitor arrival from:-China 36.5 per cent-Australia 7.7 per cent-New Zealand 5.7 per cent-Continental Europe 6.2 per cent-Canada, 2 per cent -The US, 2 per cent.

Corrections Service To Get New Remand Centre

Fiji will have a new remand centre by the end of this year.The centre, which will house immigration detainees, is expected to cater for 200 inmates.The contract for the $11.6m project was signed recently by the Commissioner of Corrections Lieutenant Colonel Ifereimi Vasu and Western Builders Limited.Fiji Corrections Service spokeswoman Ana Tamani said the remand centre,

which is a first for the Fiji Corrections Service, is also expected to ease the age-old problem of overcrowding at correction centres.She said the number of people convicted by the courts has increased dramatically as has the numbers of those on remand.“However the capacity for their accommodation has remained the same thus putting a massive strain on our resources,” she said.


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Friday April 27, 2012www.fijitimescanada.com Times Fiji News 15

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No Wait For Tax Identification Number

Waiting for that three-sentence letter stating your tax identification number will no longer take you hours, days or even a month.Fiji Revenue Customs Authority's Jitoko Tikolevu, said it would now only take about 10 minutes for individual taxpayers or up to six hours for companies that had foreign directors."It's all about service delivery and simplifying business processes," he said.And after years of requests from the business community, FRCA has also extended the life of the certificate of exemption, which was being issued every month. It will now have a life of six months, 12 months for the "good" taxpayers and 15 months for the 20 individuals, companies who are members of the Gold Club, which Mr Tikolevu emphasized is not a "rich men's club". The club members would be accorded the red carpet treatment as a reward for being a good taxpayer. For example, if they are travelling overseas, they would be treated as VIPs at the Nadi International Airport, Mr Tikolevu said.You and I as individual taxpayers, could also be in this club, but membership is at FRCA's discretion. Mr Tikolevu said they had identified another 16 to join

this club."Before, taxpayers would have to come to our office every month to renew the certificate, they will now only come after 6 months, 12 months or 15 months," he said.The certificate is issued to taxpayers who would prefer to pay the 15 per cent provisional tax later. The benefits to businesses include better cash flow in the short term.FRCA is also now operating 24 hours, seven days a week at the Suva wharf. Eventually, this service would extend to other ports. Mr Tikolevu said in the past those wishing to clear their cargo from the wharf could not do so on weekends or on public holidays."As long as they pay their duty by 4pm Friday, they can clear their cargo during the weekend," he said.However, he cautioned, there were other agencies such as Biosecurity Authority of Fiji and the Health Ministry whose approvals may be needed for certain cargo.While all these new initiatives are to improve services and assist taxpayers, Mr Tikolevu, as a committed tax man has thrown a word of caution- don't deny the government coffers of its dues because tax evasion can now land you in the corrections facilities.

Cuba Envoy Presents Credentials Cuba’s Ambassador to Fiji, Her Excellency Maria Caseiro presented her credentials to the President, His Excellency Ratu Epeli Nailatikau.The formality, which took place at Government House re-emphasized Fiji’s growing ties with South American countries.Ms Caseiro has vast experience in the field of international relations having served in many Cuban missions and the Cuban Ministry of Foreign Affairs.She has also served as a counselor to Cuba’s Mission to the United Nations Office in Geneva.Ambassador Caseiro, who is fluent in English and French, has a degree in International Political Relations and has done postgraduate courses in Economics, International Law and Public International Law. Before taking up this posting, Ms Caseiro served as Counselor Deputy Director of Multilateral Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Cuba.Ms Caseiro will be the non-resident representative to Fiji as she will serves concurrent accreditation to New Zealand, Samoa, Tonga, Tuvalu and Cook Islands.Meanwhile, the Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Ratu Inoke Kubuabola together with

the Minister for Youth and Sports, Viliame Naupoto recently held fruitful discussions with the First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Cuba, Marcelino Medina González in Nadi.Mr Gonzalez is currently on a tour of several Pacific Island countries and at the meeting expressed satisfaction with the bilateral relations shared between Fiji and Cuba with hopes of further strengthening these ties.Fiji has several students currently pursuing medicine studies in Cuba.

Fiji Welcomes New Zealand

Flood Aid The Fijian Government has welcomed the announcement of New Zealand’s pledge of a further $1.45 million towards rebuilding the lives of those affected by the recent floods.“The Fijian Government thanks New Zealand for assisting flood-affected Fijians in a time of need," said Fijian Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Ratu Inoke Kubuabola. His New Zealand counterpart, Minister Murray McCully, made the announcement in Wellington, adding that the funds will be used for recovery and reconstruction work after the floods.“New Zealand is always ready to assist our Pacific neighbours recover from natural disasters. We want to see flood-affected communities rebuild their homes and lives as quickly as possible,” Mr McCully said.The announcement brings the contributions of the New Zealand government to $2.25million after earlier grants of $500,000 and $750,000 in the immediate aftermath of the disaster.Minister Kubuabola also thanked other international donors, including former Fijian citizens who now reside overseas who came to Fiji’s aid in the wake of two recent floods.

Police Report 51 Missing People

Yet To Be FoundFifty-one people reported missing in the past five months in Fiji, are still to be found.Fiji Police revealed the numbers as they reported they are looking for the latest missing person - USP student Avishekh Nand of Vatia, Ba who went missing on the day of his graduation on April 13.Police spokeswoman Ana Naisoro said Nand went missing from the FNPF building on the day and was believed to be heading to the USP campus for his graduation.Naisoro asked the public to contact the nearest police station if they have any information on him.Naisoro said from December 2011 to April 21, 2012, 89 missing persons reports have been lodged at community posts and stations.She said 38 of the missing persons have been found while 51 are still missing.

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President Launches Honor Fiji Journey His Excellency the President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau launched the Honor Fiji Journey organised by the Econesian Society of the University of the South Pacific.Ratu Nailatikau as the patron of the society officiated at the event which formed part of the fundraising drive for the society who emphasize and promote the preservation of culture and heritage.“In this times of enormous environmental, economic and political challenges, the in depth knowledge of the earth that indigenous people have gained over millennia can no longer be dismissed. It must be embraced as central to achieving sustainability,” Ratu Nailatikau told guests.The President said that in Fiji there has been growing concern from Government regarding cultural revitalization.“This is reflected through continued support towards cultural heritage activities such as heritage site management, artistic promotion activities, developing creative industries, preservation and protection of artifacts and archaeological

documentation, safeguarding and promotion of language,” he said.Professor Vilisoni Hereniko is one of the honor ambassadors of the Econesian society and currently the Director of Oceania Centre for Arts Culture and Pacific Studies at USP.“The Econesian Society is very concerned about the environment not just the land itself but also the ocean resources and the idea is to help preserve the natural and cultural heritage of Oceania peoples for future generation,” Professor Hereniko said.“The fact that the President himself has endorsed the society, the fact that he is the patron and is willing to give up his very precious time to be with us here at this fund raising event is a testimony of his interest in the preservation of the environment and also the natural and cultural heritage of Pacific Islanders,” Professor Hereniko said.Former Miss Hibiscus and current Miss South Pacific and USP student Alisi Rabukawaqa is also an honor ambassador for the Econesian Society.“The honor Fiji Journey is basically is about the preservation of our cultural

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Cow Pumps Out 1 Million Glasses Of Milk

A Canadian cow named Smurf has set a new world record for the most milk produced in a lifetime - a whopping 216,891 kilograms over 15 years."That's the equivalent of more than 1 million glasses of milk," Smurf's owner Eric Patenaude, a sixth generation dairy farmer, said.Guinness World Records has confirmed the record, which belonged to a cow in the US state of Michigan.The average dairy cow yields about 35,000kg (33,981 liters) of milk in a lifetime, or less than 50 liters per day.Smurf, a Holstein cow who lives on a farm near Vancouver, produces about the same daily amount but has lived

three times longer than most dairy cows and is still producing milk.It was her "longevity and consistency" that won her the prize, which also earned Smurf "Udder Accolades" from a local newspaper, Mr Patenaude said.Smurf's father was a stud named Emperor from Wisconsin and her mother, Murphy, was also a "good milker", said a herder at La Ferme Gillette in Embrun, Ontario.Smurf turns 16 in September and is expecting her 11th calf in the coming weeks.So far she has only had one female offspring to continue the milk-making tradition.

Crime One Of The World's Top 20 Economies: UN

The United Nations says crime generates an estimated $US2.1 trillion in global proceeds each year - 3.6 per cent of the world's gross domestic product. In what are the first UN figures for global crime profits, the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has announced criminal business is one of the world's top 20 economies."It makes the criminal business one of the largest economies in the world, one of the top 20 economies," UNODC head Yury Fedotov said.Mr Fedotov told a news conference the figures were calculated recently for the first time by the UNODC and World Bank, based on data for 2009, and no comparisons are yet available.Speaking on the opening day of a week-long meeting of the international Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice (CCPCJ), he suggested the situation may be worsening "but to corroborate this feeling I need more data".He said up to $US40 billion is lost through corruption in developing countries annually, and illicit income from human trafficking amounts to $US32 billion every year."According to some estimates, at any one time, 2.4 million people suffer the misery of human trafficking, a shameful crime of modern day slavery," Mr Fedotov said separately in a speech.

He also cited a range of other crimes yielding big money.Mr Fedotov said organised crime, illicit trafficking, violence and corruption are "major impediments" to the Millennium Development Goals, a group of targets set by the international community in 2000 to seek to improve health and reduce poverty among the world's poorest people by 2015.'Impressive adaptability'A senior US official also told the meeting in Vienna that criminal groups have shown "impressive adaptability" to law enforcement actions and to new profit opportunities. "Today, most criminal organisations bear no resemblance to the hierarchical organised crime family groups of the past," principal deputy assistant secretary Brian Nichols said, according to a copy of his speech."Instead, they consist of loose and informal networks that often converge when it is convenient and engage in a diverse array of criminal activities," Mr Nichols, of the US Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, added.He said terrorist groups in some cases were turning to crime to help fund their operations."There are even instances where terrorists are evolving into criminal entrepreneurs in their own right," he said.

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Abraham Lincoln's Opera Glasses Up For Auction

The opera glasses carried by United States president Abraham Lincoln when he was assassinated in 1865 will be auctioned later this month.Los Angeles auctioneer Nate D Sanders will be selling the German-manufactured black and gold opera glasses which Lincoln took to a performance of Our American Cousin at Ford's Theatre in Washington DC on April 14, 1865.During the second act of the play, stage actor John Wilkes Booth jumped into the president's viewing box and shot Lincoln in the head with a pistol.The opera glasses were found in the street outside the theatre by a Washington DC city guard as he helped transport the president to nearby Petersen House,

where Lincoln later died."Lincoln used literature and the theatre as a means of escape from the daunting demands of the presidency. The glasses are the best and most well-documented relic existing from the first presidential assassination," Mr Sanders said in a statement.The glasses were confirmed to fit "precisely" into the carrying case held at the Ford's Theatre National Historic site, and were purchased by Forbes magazine publisher Malcolm Forbes, Sr in 1979.The auction will be held on April 30, and bids can be placed by phone or online. The glasses are expected to fetch between $US500,000 and $US700,000.

Helen Clark: Powerful, But UnknownFormer New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark has topped a list of the "most powerful women you've never heard of".Foreign Policy magazine has placed the former Labour leader, who now heads the United Nation's Development Programme, on the top of list of 25 women who are "running the world", but are less well known than the "Angela Merkels and Dilma Rousseffs" of the world."As New Zealand's prime minister, Helen Clark oversaw a decade of economic growth and won three straight terms in her post after a long career as a Labour Party legislator and cabinet minister.Less than a year after losing the 2008 General Election, Clark took charge of the UN Development Programme, the first woman to lead the organisation. "Clark, 62, now oversees the UNDP's nearly NZ$6 billion annual budget and

more than 8,000 employees operating in 177 countries. Cholera in Haiti and famine in Somalia may be far from daily life for many New Zealanders, but Clark appears undaunted. Her top goal as administrator, she said last fall (autumn), is no less than to eradicate extreme poverty around the world."Chinese state councilor Liu Yandong, US Treasury undersecretary for international affairs Lael Brainard, Nigerian Finance Minister Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, and US Securities and Exchange Commission chairperson Mary Schapiro round out the top five of the list, which is dominated by politicians.

Man Accidentally Shoots Himself, Wife At Gun Safety Course In Virginia

A US man accidentally shot himself and his wife at a gun safety course in Virginia. Michael Deel, 54, from Roanoke, Virginia, shot himself in the hand with a .45-calibre handgun during the course and the bullet then passed through his hand and hit his wife Michelle in the leg, who was seated next to him, .Bedford County Sheriff's Office and

rescue units attended the scene.Course leader Thomas Starke, 57, told officers that he left the room temporarily, heard a gunshot and came back in to find that the couple had been shot, police said.The couple was taken to the Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.Investigators are probing the shooting.


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Kidney Donor Wants Organ Back From Boss Who Fired Her

The New York mother who was fired after she donated her kidney to save her boss's life demanded that the woman return the organ.

"You hate me so much, and I'm so despicable - give me my kidney back!" wailed 47-year-old Debbie Stevens, of Long Island.Her employer at Atlantic Automotive Group, Jackie Brucia, also 47, thanked Stevens for the gift on Monday - and then "wished her the best.""I will always be grateful that she gave me a kidney," Brucia told the reporter. "I have nothing bad to say about her. I will always be grateful to her - she did a wonderful thing for me."For Stevens to get her organ back would not be easy - and would involve at least four surgeries.Stevens donated her kidney to the national pool because she and Brucia were not a perfect match. That gave Brucia a better shot at getting a speedy transplant.Stevens' kidney actually was transplanted into a patient in St Louis, and Brucia's came from San Francisco.The scorned Stevens also insisted that the only reason Brucia rehired her in the first place is because she was a "Plan B" in case another organ donor fell through, she said."She used her power to manipulate

me," Stevens claimed.According to a state Human Rights Commission complaint that Stevens filed on Friday, Brucia began to harass her shortly after she donated her left kidney in the fall of 2010 - and eventually helped fire her in April 2011.The two previously worked together at the dealership and forged a friendship in 2009. Stevens returned from Florida in 2010, and Brucia rehired her.Now, Stevens says that her health insurance coverage will soon run out - leaving her unable to pay future medical and psychiatric bills related to the transplant."I don't know what I'm going to do," she said. "I can't afford it - it's a lot of money. I may have a hard time getting insurance because I donated a kidney. I thought I would be at that job until I retired."The car dealership called Stevens' claims "groundless"."Atlantic Auto treated her appropriately and acted honorably and fairly at every turn," lawyer Robert Milman said."We expect to have this resolved favorably in the legal system."

GIVE IT UP!Debbie Stevens (right) demands Jackie Brucia (left) return the donated kidney.

California To Vote On Abolishing Death Penalty

Voters in California are to be asked whether they want to abolish the state's death penalty law.The measure will appear on November's ballot after more than 500,000 people signed up to back the proposal.The measure would see death row inmates have their sentences commuted to life. Just 13 people have been executed since the law was re-introduced in 1978.Backers say abolition could save California $100m per year, but opponents say justice would be harmed."Our system is broken, expensive and it always will carry the grave risk of a mistake," said Jeanne Woodford, a former warden of San Quentin Prison, home to the largest death row unit in the US.Ms Woodford is now an anti-death penalty advocate and is named as the official proposer of the measure, which is backed by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).Ms Woodford and other supporters say the cash savings would be achieved by taking prisoners off death row and by cutting down on fees for lawyers arguing death penalty cases. The money could be better spent investigating unsolved crimes, backers of the measure say.Under the terms of the measure those sentenced to life in prison for murder

would in future have to take up jobs while incarcerated.'Political points' With the state of California wracked by long-standing budget issues, there is wide acceptance that the death penalty system needs reform.No inmate has been put to death in the state since 2006, and a respected study in 2009 noted that the state was spending some $184m each year to keep death row and the death penalty infrastructure up and running.Opponents of the measure argue that the principle of the death penalty is valid and should remain, but say the constant and costly appeals and legal fees are inflating the costs."On behalf of crime victims and their loved ones who have suffered at the hands of California's most violent criminals, we are disappointed that the ACLU and their allies would seek to score political points in their continued efforts to override the will of the people and repeal the death penalty," former Sacramento prosecutor McGregor Scott told the reporter.The death penalty measure is the fifth to qualify for November's ballot, California's secretary of state said on Monday.Other measures deal with water costs, political contributions, car insurance and local legislative boundaries.

Bomb Explodes At Lahore Train Station, Killing Two

A bomb exploded near a luxury train waiting lounge at the main railway station in the eastern Pakistan city of Lahore, killing at least two people, police said. "It was a bomb blast, two people have been killed and 35 injured," said senior police officer Abdul Cheema.Rescue official Kiramat Ali described it as a "huge blast" and said 35 wounded had been taken to hospital.Pakistan suffers frequent attacks blamed on Taliban and al-Qaeda-linked militants, who are most active in the lawless tribal belt in the northwest of the country on the border with Afghanistan.The explosion was the first attack in

Lahore, regarded as Pakistan's cultural capital, since a bomb at a Sunni Muslim shrine in February 2011 killed two people.The blast took place near the lounge for the luxury Business Express train to Karachi, a service launched two months ago offering first-class travel between Pakistan's two biggest cities.Television footage showed a waiting room littered with glass and upended furniture, its windows blown in by the force of the explosion.Senior police officer Ali Ahmad Malik said the bomb was left in a bag and the dead were a porter and a policeman. He added the Business Express train had left the station and was not the target.

Prince Harry To Receive Humanitarian Award

Prince Harry is being honoured with a humanitarian leadership award next month in Washington, D.C.The royal grandson will attend a ceremony May 7 to accept the honour from the Atlantic Council, the media reported.He's being recognized for his work with British troops, including charities such as Walking With the Wounded and Help for Heroes."Prince Harry will use the award to pay tribute to British and American veterans'

charities for their achievements in helping to rehabilitate wounded servicemen and women, and to reintegrate those who have served in the armed forces into civilian life," a statement from Buckingham Palace said.Harry has chosen to accept the award on behalf of himself and his brother, Prince William. Together they set up the Foundation of Prince William and Prince Harry in September 2009, which provides funding for a number of charities in the U.K.

Friday April 27, 2012www.fijitimescanada.com Times World News 21

Woman Takes 58 Years To Get Driving Licence

A 16-year-old British girl thought of hitting the road with a licence within a few months of learning to drive. But little did she think that she was actually

destined to get it after 58 years!

The 74-year-old Valerie Christie, from Carlisle County, has finally passed her driving test for which she first attempted in 1954. She was first taught how to drive by her then mechanic boyfriend back in 1954. But after their relationship ended, she gave up driving and never took the test.When her friend Thomas Noble fell ill, she decided to finally get her licence - in a bid to help him get to hospital appointments - passing her theory exam with flying colours.And despite failing two previous tests - one early last year and another a month ago - she got her full licence this week after a test."I was really nervous before the test...

But the examiner was really nice. I felt comfortable with him and relaxed, and thought to myself, 'yes, I'm going to do this'," she said."I drove really well and passed with only four minor faults."Christie now plans to splash out and buy an iconic Morris Traveller to help her disabled friend Thomas Noble get about town."It was my friend Thomas who inspired me to do it. He had a stroke some time ago and we have to get him to so many appointments. And now if we want to go out for a meal, we can drive there, she said, adding "But it also shows that you're never too old to learn a new skill."

Jealous Man Slit Wife's Throat, Jury Told

A jealous husband strangled his wife then cut her throat with a box cutter after she decided to leave him, a Sydney murder trial has been told.

But the defence contends Chamanjot Singh was provoked into killing her and was caught in a "triangle of desperation" involving adultery, the threat of deportation, and family and financial pressures.Singh, 24, had pleaded not guilty in the NSW Supreme Court to murdering Manpreet Kaur in December 2009 at Westmead in the house they shared with other people.But he has pleaded guilty to her manslaughter.In the crown opening, prosecutor Paul Leask said the couple married in India in September 2008 and the wife moved to Australia on a student visa in January 2009.Her husband joined her in May the same year."In the meantime his wife had developed ties and friendships in this country," he said.The crown alleged Singh became jealous and was violent towards his wife.On the night of her death, other residents heard the couple argue before she told one woman she was leaving

her husband the next day.Sometime later, they heard her scream out in Punjabi words like "save me, save me; I won't do it again; sorry, sorry", Mr Leask said.When they managed to get into the room, they saw her lying on her back with her throat cut.In the defence opening, Chrissa Loukas said the case was about the difference between murder and manslaughter.Referring to the reason for Singh's claim of provocation, she said: "its infidelity, its adultery"."It was the final confession to something that Mr Singh had been suspecting for a while," she said."The triangle of desperation" involved the infidelity, the threat of deportation, and the background of family and financial pressure the couple was under."Ms Loukas said her client did not have to prove provocation."The crown must disprove it," she said.The trial is continuing before Justice Peter McClellan.

Saudi Boy, 4, Kills Father Over PlaystationAn angry four-year-old Saudi boy shot and killed his father for refusing to buy him a PlayStation.The Asharq daily, citing police in the southern Jizan area, said the child, aged four years and seven months, grabbed his father's pistol and shot him in the head. According to the newspaper, the

child had asked his father to buy him a PlayStation and the shooting took place after the man returned home without the desired object. As he was undressing, the man put the weapon down, which the child then grabbed and fired at him from close range.

Norway Custody Row Children Return To India

Two Indian children who were handed over to their uncle from foster care in Norway have returned to India.On Monday, a Norwegian court ruled that that the children be allowed to return to India.Norway's Child Welfare Agency (CWA) said it took children into custody last May alleging the parents did not adequately look after the children.However, the parents said that "cultural differences" were behind the agency's decision.The incident has caused a diplomatic row between Norway and India.TV pictures showed three-year-old Abhigyan and one-year-old Aishwariya Bhattacharya at Delhi's international airport on Tuesday morning. They are on their way to the eastern city to Calcutta.The children were met at the airport by Junior Foreign Minister.Foreign Minister SM Krishna said he

was "delighted to welcome kids to India".The children were put in foster care by the CWA after local social services said the children were at risk.However the parents, Anurup and Sagarika Bhattacharya, who were living in Norway at the time, denied this.They said that there were "cultural differences" the authorities took exception to, including sleeping with the children and feeding them by hand.Following discussions, the CWA has reached an agreement with the parents and the children's uncle.Custody of the children was transferred to the uncle, enabling them to return to India.The case received extensive media attention in India and provoked public anger, with the Indian government saying that the children should be allowed to live in their own cultural and linguistic environment.

India Becomes World's Top 'Spam-Spewing Nation'

India has become the top 'spam-spewing nation' on the planet, overtaking the United States, according to a report. A report of security firm Sophos ranked the nations by the amount of junk mail routed through computers in each country.It said that 9.3 percent of all junk mail sent across the web came from or passed through computers in India, with America in the second place at 8.3 per cent and South Korea third at 5.7 per cent, the media reported.According to Graham Cluley, senior

technology consultant at Sophos, India's rapid rise up the chart of spam producers is due to the rapid growth of the web in the country.Cluley pointed out that the inexperience of the many first-time net users in India had led many to fall victim to hi-tech criminals."The latest stats show that, as more first-time internet users get online in growing economies, they are not taking measures to block the malware infections that turn their PCs into spam-spewing zombies," he added.

NZ Exodus To Australia Continues

New Zealanders' exodus to Australia continues as more Kiwis look across the Tasman for a better quality of life.

Some 5000 departures in the month of March left a net loss across the Tasman of 3928 last month, according to Statistics New Zealand.That took the annual net loss to a record 39,456, with 53,237 departures in the year ended March 31. That's continued a trend of record annual outflows to Australia since November 2011, the department said.The overall loss of migrants in March was 1300 for an annual outflow of 3400. That annual figure was made up of 84,400 arrivals and 87,800

departures.On a seasonally adjusted basis, there was a net gain of 130 migrants in March, the second monthly gain since the February earthquake last year.That was bolstered by new migrants from India, China and the Philippines.Short-term visitor arrivals rose 11 per cent to some 240,000 in March, with a 35 per cent surge in Asian visitors.Visitors climbed 4.4 per cent to 2.6 million over the year, and were bolstered by the Rugby World Cup between July and October last year.

Friday April 27, 2012www.fijitimescanada.com22

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“After my accident I had constant neck and back pains. I felt sad most of the time and became very anxious aboutthe 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 myclaim for $28,000 plus expenses.” MISS M.___________________________________________________________________________________________

“ICBC offered me $32,000 to finish my case. I was off work for 6 monthsand saw a specialist because of my jawinjury. I couldn’t mop the floor or clean our bathroom without help from my children. I received $200,000 throughmy 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.

ICBC Cases

Friday April 27, 2012www.fijitimescanada.com Times Canada News 23

Travis Vader Charged With Murder Of Mccanns

Travis Vader has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder of a St. Albert, Alberta couple who mysteriously vanished in 2010.Vader, 40, was charged over the weekend with the slayings of Lyle McCann and Marie McCann.The elderly couple was reported missing by their family on July 10, 2010. They were last seen alive on July 3, 2010.Vader was charged at the Edmonton Remand Centre where he is being held on unrelated charges. His first court appearance on the murder charges is set for May 15.“Understandably, the public has many questions about what happened to the McCanns,” said Staff Sergeant Shawn LeMay, from RCMP K-Division in Edmonton.“Those questions will be answered in court.”Lyle McCann, 78, and Marie McCann, 72, were last seen fuelling their motorhome in their hometown of St. Albert, before heading on a camping

trip through the Rocky Mountains. They were scheduled to meet their daughter in Abbotsford, B.C., a week later, but never made it.Two days after they were last seen, their RV was found engulfed in flames near a campground east of Edson, Alta. The Tucson SUV they were towing was soon discovered nearby.The couple has since been declared dead and presumed murdered, but their remains have yet to be found.The RCMP continued to maintain that Vader was a suspect in the disappearance.In December, Vader was handed a 33 1/2 -month sentence, deemed time-served based on pre-trial custody, after being convicted of a number of charges stemming from a crime spree west of Edmonton in December 2009.Vader was given a reduced sentence after the judge ruled he was held for an extended period of time in segregation as a result of alleged threats and abuse stemming from his being a suspect in the McCanns’ disappearance.

ICBC Seeks 'Essential Service' Status

Strike possible but union says ICBC could instead negotiate basic service levelsThe Insurance Corporation of B.C. has applied to have its services declared essential in a bid to block possible strike action by unionized staff, the media has learned.ICBC has made the essential service request in an application to the B.C. Labour Relations Board.The Canadian Office and Professional Employees Union, which represents about 4,600 ICBC employees, has been conducting preliminary votes across the province to test the waters for a strike mandate.Many union members are angry that ICBC has reportedly offered no wage increase in its next five-year contract and a union official said he’s stunned that the corporation is making the application to the LRB.“It’s a pretty heavy hammer to use,” said COPE spokesman Jeff Gillies.The minister responsible for ICBC, B.C. Finance Minister Kevin Falcon, said Monday he believes the essential service application is, "a very responsible thing for the corporation to do," when faced with a possible strike.“The company, understandably, is

going to make sure that they at least get a ruling that will allow for minimal or essential levels of service to be provided to the public,” Falcon said.Depending on the location, those services include providing vehicle insurance, processing accident claims and issuing drivers licences and licence plates.Gillies said the union believes that ICBC wants about 500 workers declared essential in claims customer services, driver services, and at the contact centre where drivers call in their claims, and in other departments.Gillies said the union is willing to co-operate with ICBC to a degree that would not require the company to try to be designated an essential service.“We understand that there might be some services at ICBC that are actually essential, but we’ll work through that at the [LRB],” said Gillies.Gillies said a similar attempt by Saskatchewan General Insurance to be declared essential was challenged by the union, but the company’s initiative was struck down by that province’s courts.

One Dead, 23 Injured After Explosion At Canadian Sawmill

A man died and 23 others were injured following a large explosion at a sawmill in Prince George, in central British Columbia. The 24 workers at the Lakeland Mills plant were attending a training session late Monday night when the explosion occurred at 9:38pm.The workers had to fight through smoke and flames to evacuate the mill, with many sustaining serious burns.Shift supervisor Alan Little, 43, died from his injuries at the University Hospital of Northern British Columbia.Six others remain at Prince George Hospital in serious, but stable condition, while four others have been airlifted

to intensive care units in Vancouver, Victoria and Edmonton.The explosion shook buildings several miles away and blew debris up to 400m from the scene, officials said.Investigators are working to identify what caused the explosion."We will not speculate on the cause of the incident at Lakeland Mills until the proper authorities have completed their investigation," said Greg Stewart, president of the Sinclar company which runs the mill. "All of our attention right now is focused on ensuring our employees and their families receive the care they need."

Couple Jailed For Abusing Granddaughter

A Saskatchewan couple convicted of starving their granddaughter and keeping her in the basement have been sentenced to three years in prison.The couple, who cannot be named because it would identify the girl, gained custody of their granddaughter

in 2007, local media reported.Regina court heard the girl, who is now seven and doing well in a foster home, was treated differently than two other children in the home.The Fort Qu'Appelle-area couple accepted responsibility for their actions after they were found guilty.

B.C. To Cut Generic Drugs' Price Another 10 Per Cent

The B.C. government has brought in legislation to cut the price of generic drugs after scrapping a deal with the pharmacy industry that was aimed at reducing prices.When Health Minister Mike de Jong tore up that deal in February he said it wasn't bringing the savings the government wanted because drug makers were asking for too many exemptions.De Jong says he's now turned to legislation to regulate drug pricing, following a similar bill introduced by Ontario in 2010.

Right now, generic drugs cost 35 per cent of their brand name counterparts, but de Jong says his legislation will bring that price down to 25 per cent of brand name drugs.He says this will not only save the government money, which can be reinvested in other areas of health care, but it will also save money for patients and their families and help make the PharmaCare drug coverage plan sustainable.Ontario's 25-per-cent generic drug pricing law prompted legal battles last year between the province and pharmacies.

Friday April 27, 2012www.fijitimescanada.com Times Canada News24

B.C.’s health minister says it’s unacceptable for optometrists in the province to be charging extra for providing basic eye exam information that’s supposed to be included in all eyeglass prescriptions.Minister Mike de Jong was responding to a report Wednesday from an investigation that found many optometrists were charging between $15 and $50 to provide a measurement called PD, or pupillary distance.The PD, which takes seconds to measure, is crucial to the proper alignment between a customer’s pupils and their eyeglass lenses.In an effort seen as opening up the eyeglass market to online competition, B.C.’s Health Professions Act was amended in 2010 to stipulate that the PD was to be included in every prescription.De Jong said the rules are not there to be broken."They're there for a reason, they're there to be followed and it's troubling to learn that there may be wider spread disregard for those regulations than that's acceptable," de Jong said.De Jong said he would investigate and take action if necessary."If you choose to purposely ignore the rules, there will be sanctions and there will be consequences."The PD is required for glasses, but not for contacts. Also, without the PD measurement, glasses cannot be ordered online, where prices can be lower than in stores.The extra charge might sound unreasonable, but it isn’t necessarily,

according to Dr. Robin Simpson, head of the College of Optometrists of B.C., which regulates the profession."If a patient wants to pay one price for an exam with the PD and another price for an exam without the PD, they have the right to do it," Simpson said.The College of Optometrists’ policies enable its members to charge for the PD under specific circumstances."The cost of PD measurement must be included in the eye examination fee rather than charged as a separate item,” the policy states. But it adds, “Unless the patient is advised and agrees otherwise.”At least one company operating in B.C. includes a clause at the bottom of its pre-exam questionnaire that must be signed by customers and points out a $50 charge for the PD.Simpson agrees the college might have to adjust its policy."We've interpreted the amendment. Perhaps we can amend the amendment,” he said.But that might not be necessary. The media has found that in addition to the exception cited above, the college's policy also says the PD should be provided free."If, for any reason, the PD measurement was not obtained at the time of an eye exam … on or after May 1, 2010 ... (an optometrist) must offer to measure the PD ... free of charge," the directive says.If an optometrist refuses to comply, consumers can file a complaint with the college.

Extra Charge For B.C. Eye Exams 'Unacceptable'

Gerry Ritz Has Biggest Tab For Trips And Hospitality

Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz racked up the most spending on travel and hospitality in the past two years compared to his cabinet colleagues, according to newly compiled numbers.The total tab since March 2010 to send Ritz to trade missions in far-flung locations around the globe was $271,489, just above two other top ministers.In second place was Finance Minister Jim Flaherty, who has attended G8 and G20 meetings in global destinations in recent years, and Defence Minister Peter MacKay.But events in Japan, Indonesia and Turkey over the past two years put Ritz in first-place.Ritz's office said Tuesday that the spending simply illustrates the minister's commitment to Canada's agriculture sector."Canadian agriculture exports hit record levels last year at $44 billion and the agriculture and agri-food industry provides 1 in 8 jobs," said spokeswoman Meagan Murdoch.She added that Ritz's trade missions "are targeted and results-based led in partnership with industry and provinces to open, re-open and expand Canadian markets …"By comparison, Flaherty's travel and hospitality tab came to $270,119 and MacKay came third with $265,286.The expense numbers, reported by The Canadian Press, come during a time of increased scrutiny on government expenses, especially following last month's federal budget.The March budget promised to slash 19,000 federal jobs over the next three years with a rollback on spending this year totalling $5.2 billion.On Tuesday, cabinet colleague Bev Oda stood in Parliament and apologized

for expenses incurred on a trip to London, England, for a conference. She switched from her five-star hotel to one preferred by royalty, and hired a car for travelling back to the first hotel -- where the conference was held.By contrast, Harper's Conservatives have trumpeted their abilities as austere economic managers, and have often stated that departmental spending is lower today than it was when the previous Liberal government was in power.The Conservatives regularly compile travel expenses and publish them for top personnel. That can include ministers, MPs and other staff.Meanwhile, the communications offices for both McKay and Flaherty released similar statements that tied spending to important government work."Our government treats taxpayers' money with the upmost (sic) respect and we require that travel on government business be done at the lowest possible cost to taxpayers," said Flaherty's spokesperson, Mary Ann Dewey-Plante.MacKay's spokesman, Jay Paxton, told Canadian Press in an email: "This minister has overseen Canadian Forces actions in Afghanistan, Libya and Haiti, demonstrated Canada's leadership in the world at NATO meetings and other major international conferences, and made it a priority to be in the field with the men and women who serve and sacrifice in Canada's name."The most expensive trip since 2010, however, came from former foreign affairs minister Lawrence Cannon. A 10-day trip to Kazakhstan, the United Arab Emirates, Afghanistan, Vietnam and Hong Kong cost $35,058 for flights and $1,074 for accommodations.

Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz stands in the House of Commons during Question Period in Ottawa, Monday, April 23, 2012.

Police Seek Person Of Interest In Christmas Eve Slaying

Bradley McPherson, 28, was shot dead at a house party in Surrey on Dec. 24, 2011. Homicide investigators are asking for help identifying a person of interest in a shooting that left a Surrey man dead

at a Christmas Eve house party.Twenty-eight-year-old Bradley McPherson was killed by another partygoer in the early hours of Dec. 24 at the gathering in a home near the intersection of 132nd Street and 67A Avenue.The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team says it is "aggressively" pursuing the young man's killer, and issued a statement Tuesday requesting information about a party attendee they'd like to speak with.The person of interest is described as dark-skinned and about 6 feet tall with a medium or large build. He was wearing

a dark hoodie with a distinctive white crest or a camouflage-patterned jacket on the night of the party.Police say that the party was well-attended and they believe someone may be able to help them identify the man.Shortly after McPherson was killed, his mother Susan made a plea for help in solving the case."Bradley was a fun loving man who loved his family and he was in no way involved in illegal activity. This was a senseless act which has taken a son away from his mother forever," she said in a written statement on Dec. 26.Anyone with information about McPherson's murder or the person of interest in the case can call the IHIT tipline at 1-877-551-IHIT or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.



THINKING OF BECOMING A CANADIAN CITIZEN?Try This Practice Test - Discover Canada

26

1) What is a minority government? A. The party in power holds less than half of the seats in the House of Commons.B. The party in power holds at least half of the seats in the House of Commons.C. The party in power holds at least half of the seats in the House of Commons and the Senate.D. The party in power holds at least half of the seats in the Senate.2) Which region is known as the industrial and manufacturing heartland of Canada? A. Central Canada.B. Southern Canada.

C. Atlantic provinces.D. Prairie provinces.3) What party is the Official Opposition at the federal level? A. The New Democratic Party.B. The Canadian Alliance Party.C. The Conservative Party of Canada.D. The Liberal Party.4) Why is the North sometimes called the "Land of the Midnight Sun"? A. Winter daylight can last up to 24 hours.B. Fall daylight can last up to 24 hours.C. Spring daylight can last up to 24 hours.D. Summer daylight can last up to 24 hours.5) Who are the Aboriginal peoples in Canada? A. The first inhabitants of Canada.B. Refugees from the American Revolution.

C. Early Australian immigrants.D. United Empire Loyalists and Métis.6) How many Canadians served in the First World War? A. About 10,000.B. More than 60,000.C. More than 600,000.D. About 170,000.7) To what ocean is Newfoundland closest? A. Pacific.B. Labrador Sea.C. Atlantic.D. Arctic.8) From whom are the Acadians descended? A. British colonists who began settling in what are now the Maritime provinces in 1604.B. Métis and Inuit.C. French colonists who began settling in what are now the Maritime provinces

in 1604.D. First Nations who began settling in what are now the Prairie provinces in 1600s.9) Which province is on the Pacific coast of Canada? A. British Columbia.B. Yukon.C. Nova Scotia.D. Quebec.10) What are the Prairie provinces? A. Saskatchewan and Manitoba.B. Saskatchewan, Alberta and Manitoba.C. Alberta, Manitoba and British Columbia.D. Saskatchewan and Alberta.

ANSWERS1 A 2 A 3 A 4 D 5 A6 C 7 C 8 C 9 A 10 B

Jason Kenney Tackling Immigration Mess For far too long, Canada's immigration system has been manipulated to generate political successes instead of bolstering the country's economic and strategic interests.The result has been that most discussions about immigration policy quickly devolve into a polarizing debate.On the one hand, some argue vociferously that immigrants are a financial burden. They take jobs away from Canadians, drive wages down, inflate housing prices, and fuel tax increases to pay for their suite of entitlements — housing, medical care, education, etc.Others rightly note Canada's geographic vastness, demographic make-up, plus a picky and pampered work force create a conundrum for policy makers and employers — persistent high regional unemployment rates coupled with acute labour shortages.Thanks to Citizenship and Immigration Minister Jason Kenney these circular

discussions might finally have an end in sight.Last week in a series of appearances and speeches across the country, Kenney hinted upcoming changes to the Employment Insurance system aim to tackle this and other thorny immigration policy issues.Basically, Kenney and Human Resources and Skills Development Minister Diane Finley intend to reduce or eliminate the necessity for employers to import temporary foreign workers, where local Canadian labour is readily available.Kenney said the government "will be” making people aware there's hiring going on and reminding them that they have an obligation to apply for available work and to take it if they are going to qualify for EI." The question is, will unemployed Canadians want these jobs?It appears not, but only time will tell. Many of these chronically unfilled jobs are not glamorous by any stretch. Some

are skilled trades, some manual labour, but none appear to be attractive enough for Canada's unemployed.While this new approach will not win either minister or the government many friends, it is a step in the right direction.I can't wait to hear what opponents of this policy will argue. Essentially, the government is calling their bluff: Either take the job or shut up.Since his promotion to Citizenship and Immigration Minister by Prime Minister Stephen Harper in October 2008, Kenney has worked tirelessly to transform Canada's immigration strategy from one characterized by political pandering and hypocrisy to one that will serve Canada's best interests.Pivotal to this approach is a better alignment of the inflow of new arrivals with Canada's labour needs.Rather than continue the longstanding practice of loosening immigration policies to gain ethnic bragging rights

and votes, Kenney is leading the charge toward a more balanced, principled approach that works for both Canadians and new arrivals.A move towards providing potential immigrants with a realistic expectation of how their credentials and education will be measured against Canadian requirements, before they leave their home countries, is not only necessary but long overdue.This, coupled with giving a higher priority to applicants who are proficient in one of Canada's two official languages, means future arrivals can begin immediately to contribute to Canadian society and build stronger futures for their families.It's refreshing to see some consistent leadership on the immigration file that moves it away from the self-serving political football it has been for the past few decades, opening the way to a broader discussion about how to attract and retain the best from around the world.

Friday April 27, 2012www.fijitimescanada.com Times Lifestyle 27

This information is provided for knowledge and educational purposes only. Individuals should visit their physicians for more information on their health.

Health Benefits Of Tuna

Tuna is an incredibly nutrient-dense food. It's rich in high quality protein and an excellent source of important nutrients such as the minerals selenium, magnesium, and potassium; not to mention the B vitamin complex, and of course, the marvelous omega-3 essential fatty acids. Here are several important health benefits of tuna.

Cardiovascular HealthThe omega-3 fatty acids in tuna are responsible for a long list of cardiovascular benefits. Omega-3s help the cardiovascular system by aiding in the prevention of irregular heart rhythms, making blood clots less likely, and improving the ratio of good (HDL) cholesterol to potentially harmful (LDL) cholesterol. Not to mention, omega-3s reduce inflammation, and thereby the conversion of cholesterol into artery-clogging plaques.

That’s not all: by facilitating greater variability between heartbeats, the omega 3 fatty acids reduce the risk of arrhythmia and/or sudden death.The high amount of vitamin B6 found in tuna, along with folic acid, lowers levels of homocysteine, a by-product compound of the methylation cycle. High levels of homocysteine are very harmful to artery walls, an important risk factor for atherosclerosis. Through its high levels of omega-3s, tuna lowers levels of triglycerides, high amounts of which are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Omega-3 fatty polyunsaturated fatty acids help prevent and control high blood pressure and may reduce risk of atrial fibrillation, the most common type of heart arrhythmia, especially in the elderly.

Eye HealthThe high levels of omega-3 essential fatty acids in tuna offer substantial protection against macular degeneration (AMD) of the eye, a condition in which fine vision deteriorates, resulting in central vision loss and is the leading cause of blindness in people over 50. Studies strongly suggest that increasing dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids may also reduce the risk of dry eye syndrome, an important and prevalent cause of ocular complaints.

Cancer PreventionStudies suggest tuna protects against cancer in the ovaries, pancreas,

and every part of the digestive tract including the mouth, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, and colon. Eating fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as tuna, may also help protect against breast cancer and lower the risk of leukemia, multiple myeloma, and non-hodgkins lymphoma. Consumption of fatty fish, such as tuna, presents substantial protection against renal cell carcinoma, the most common form of kidney cancer.

Cognitive BenefitsOmega-3 fatty acids may help lessen cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease by promoting a healthy blood supply to the brain and lowering inflammation, aiding the transmission of electrical signals in the brain, and reducing the types of lesions so commonly found in patients suffering the ravages of Alzheimer’s.Brain cell research shows one omega-3 fatty acid named DHA may help increase production of the protein LR11, which destroys the beta-amyloid plaques associated with Alzheimer's disease. Tuna's rich content of niacin may also help provide protection against age-related mental decline and Alzheimer's disease. Research has shown people with diets rich in niacin are 70% less likely to have developed Alzheimer's disease than those who suffer a deficiency, and their level of age-related cognitive decline is also less.

Mood LifterA diet high in tuna may improve your mood and save you stress. The EPA of Omega-3 fatty acids improves flow of blood and may affect both hormones and the immune system, each of which have an important effect on brain function. DHA is used in ion channels in the brain, helping transmit electrical signals, and is involved in serotonin metabolism, a key factor in depression.

Improved Insulin ResponseTuna is of particular benefit to people who suffer from type 2 diabetes, due to its high content of omega-3 fats. Research suggests that although saturated fats promote weight gain, the omega-3 fats found in tuna reduce the chances of becoming obese along with improving the ability of the body to respond to insulin. The reason for this marvelous ability is the omega 3 fatty acid known as EPA, which stimulates the secretion of the hormone leptin, thereby regulating body weight and metabolism.

Promotes DetoxificationAlong with its omega-3s, the selenium contained in tuna is a crucial element in the production of glutathione peroxidase. This important antioxidant is critical for a healthy liver, the organ responsible for detoxifying and ridding the body of harmful compounds like pesticides, drugs, and heavy metals. Selenium is also known to help prevent cancer and heart disease.

'Ice Cream Headache' Can Lead To New Painkillers

Eating ice cream or really chilled soft drinks can trigger crushing headaches in some people, momentarily freezing the brain. New insight into how this happens could open

the way for new treatment of other types of headaches, including migraine. Researchers from the Harvard Medical School tracked blood flow to the brain while people drank iced water or lukewarm water. Both were drunk through a straw that was pressed against the roof of the mouth, and the volunteers signaled when the pain started and when it ended.The results showed that the pain coincided with an artery, the anterior cerebral artery, opening up and flooding the brain with blood. It then constricted and pain receded, the Daily Mail reported.

Harvard researcher Jorge Serrador said the rush of blood could be a self-defence mechanism, designed to keep the brain warm and working. However, the sudden flood of blood likely raises pressure inside the skull and so causes pain.To stop pressure reaching dangerous levels, the artery constricts, bringing pressure back down. Hopefully, a better understanding of the phenomenon, also known as brain freeze, will lead to better treatments for migraines and other types of headaches.

Why Eat Three Bananas A DayBritish 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.Researchers from the University of Warwick and the University of Naples said, "Potassium intake in most countries is well below the recommended daily amount."But if consumers ate more potassium-rich foods and also reduced their salt intake, the annual global death toll from strokes could be cut by more than a million a year.


Aries (Mar 21 - Apr 19) Be on the lookout for romantic signals in unlikely places this week; you might meet an extra-special someone in such places as the elevator to the dentist’s office or in line at a department store while waiting to make an exchange. Especially when it comes to matters where you are better informed than your associates, do not let others do your thinking for you. Trust your knowledge. Your fortunate astrological number for this week is 780. Your financial outlook for week is poor. Your compatible sign for week is Libra. Taurus (Apr 20 - May 20) The morning aspects recommend cementing ties of affection and dealing with people whose good opinions you desire. Your health is first-rate, and work is accomplished in record fashion. The aspects rise to make romantic developments more fascinating. It won’t be luck that brings about the possibilities for personal gain this week; compensation will be likely only when you make a worthy contribution towards those ends. Your fortunate astrological number is 079. Your financial outlook is very good. Your compatible sign is Gemini. Gemini (May 21 - Jun 20) A disagreement between lovers may express itself now in small, petty ways. Don’t let your temper start to boil because of such trivialities. A business trip begun now should turn out well, but be prepared for delays created by less responsible people Even though you’re likely to chalk up many accomplishments week, you could still do better if you are more industrious and less vocal. Keep your mind on the tasks at hand. Your fortunate astrological number is 134. Your financial outlook is excellent. Your compatible sign is Leo. Cancer (Jun 21 - Jul 22)

The aspects are exciting for accomplishing a great deal of work this week. Gardening, painting, and paper-hanging chores, clean-ups, furniture refinishing, and reupholstering are favored. Your health is fine, with much stamina and energy available to serve your purposes. Although you won’t have any problems this week recognizing your opportunities and what they could mean to you, nevertheless you may fall short on taking maximum advantage of them. Your fortunate astrological number is 070. Your financial outlook is excellent. Your compatible sign is Leo Leo (Jul 23 - Aug 22) Love may have made you absent-minded this week, and the reservations for a special event or show that you were supposed to handle may have never been made. A phone call from a work associate in the early evenings may be a request for a lift to work next day. Be ready and willing to make some concession or compromises this week and you should be able to amicably work out an agreement with another that is important to your cause. Your fortunate astrological number is 476. Your financial outlook is very good. Your compatible sign is Aries. Virgo (Aug 23 - Sep 21) You may hear some loud and enthusiastic cheers for new stocks or bonds, but remember these might not be necessary if the investment is as “hot” as proclaimed. Co-workers may request your assistance during lunchtime shopping. A musical event is likely to be exciting now. Advancement and/or an increase in earnings where your work or career is concerned are possible this week if you properly handle something propitious that develops for you. Your fortunate astrological number is 576. Your financial outlook is weak. Your

compatible sign is Aries. Libra (Sep 22 - Oct 23) With the Moon leaving your solar eighth house of other people’s money and investments, you might want to be extra-cautious and on the alert for missing the boat or making mistakes regarding these matters, especially during the mornings hours. Marital harmony is high at bedtime. What makes you so popular with your peers this week will be your humor and charm. This could prove true especially with members of the opposite gender. Your fortunate astrological number is 504. Your financial outlook is very good. Your compatible sign is Sagittarius. Scorpio (Oct 24 - Nov 21) Be cautious in all you do. People, especially family members, may be uptight. Business questions may stump you this morning. Strangers make romantic overtures during the afternoons and early evenings. The days ahead could hold many chances to further your personal interests, but your best opportunity might come through some type of inside information relayed to you by a reliable source. Your fortunate astrological number is 737. Your financial outlook is good. Your compatible sign is Leo. Sagittarius (Nov 22 - Dec 21) Guard your credit by keeping up payments and obligations. You can awaken tired, but a good breakfast is uplifting. Your spouse or an older loved one may set the pace for a busy week, which can be annoying prior to noon. Shopping is tedious, the atmosphere crowded. Talk out your problems today with an intimate you can trust. The more candid you can be the better chances you’ll have of finding solutions to your dilemmas. Your fortunate astrological number is 613. Your financial outlook is very good. Your compatible sign is Virgo.

Capricorn (Dec 22 - Jan 19) This week can prove to be very interesting if it’s not too active. The planets have lined up to create a fixed cross by sign in your horoscope. They tell of relationship happenings and problem solving on your part. Stay cool and detached and try not to boss anyone around. Although you can walk with crowds this week and feel at ease, your best communications will take place in small groups with whom you can enjoy more intimacy. Your fortunate astrological number is 079. Your financial outlook is poor. Your compatible sign is Libra. Aquarius (Jan 20 - Feb 18) Work associates may be cooperative in the mornings. and then extremely uncooperative after lunch. Plan your work accordingly. It won’t be easy to avoid a lover’s spat this evenings, especially if there has been a recent stress on expenses for entertainment. Use your head this week and you’ll stand a good chance of turning a profit which you’ll enjoy, but your real pride of achievement will come more from the fact that you figured out how to do so. Your fortunate astrological number is 309. Your financial outlook is very good. Your compatible sign is Scorpio. Pisces (Feb 19 - Mar 20) Easier conditions prevail in all emotional matters, including marriage, this week. Persons in entertainment, advertising, sales, and public relations get a big boost. Your health shows benefits of a recently introduced preventive- medicine routine. Your words will carry more weight than you may realize this week and the influence you’ll have on others could be considerable. Two admirers may carry out your suggestions to the letter. Your fortunate astrological number is 873. Your financial outlook is excellent. Your compatible sign is Sagittarius.

Lamb SatayIngredients

600g lean lamb leg steaks, trimmed and cut into 2cm pieces

For the Marinade 2 tbsp oil2 tbsp peanut butter1 garlic clove, peeled and crushed2 tbsp lemon juice2 tbsp pre-prepared satay sauce1 tbsp white vinegar

For the Satay Sauce250 ml satay sauce (use the pre-

prepared satay sauce left over from the marinade)2 tbsp sweet chilli sauce1 tbsp chopped fresh coriander (optional)

Instructions1. Combine all the marinade ingredients in a large shallow dish. Marinate the lamb pieces for 6-8 hours.2. Divide meat into 4-6 equal portions after removing from the marinade. 3. Thread pieces tightly onto flat-bladed metal skewers (or onto bamboo ones that have been previously soaked in water to prevent them from burning).

4. Lightly oil the medium-hot barbecue and grill satays for 8-10 minutes,

turning frequently. Combine the sauce ingredients.


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LIVE ON SHAW STATIONS FROM:

5pm to 11pm

1 888 663 3033aworldofsmiles.ca

Sunday,May 27, 2012

Indian Teenager Voids Her Child 'Marriage'

A young woman has had her child "marriage" legally annulled in northern Rajasthan state, in what is thought to be the first case of its kind in India.Laxmi Sargara, 18, wed Rakesh when she was just one and he was three.She grew up with her own family, only finding out she was married when her in-laws came to claim her this month. Child marriages are illegal in India but are still common in many parts of the country, especially in rural and poorer communities."I was unhappy about the marriage. I told my parents who did not agree with me, and then I sought help," Laxmi told the news agency.She knew nothing of her future life until a few days ago when her groom's family came to take her home with them to start her new life as Rakesh's wife. 'Depressed'After appealing to her parents Laxmi sought help from a local non-governmental organisation, the Sarathi Trust in Jodhpur city. "She got depressed. She did not like the boy and was not ready to go ahead

with her parents' decision," Sarathi Trust worker Kriti Bharti said."It is the first example we know of a couple wed in childhood wanting the marriage to be annulled and we hope others take inspiration," Kriti Bharti added.At first Rakesh wanted to go ahead with the marriage. But he relented after counseling from the NGO. Since child marriages are not legal under India's Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, both Laxmi and Rakesh signed an affidavit declaring the marriage null and void in the presence of a notary public in Jodhpur. Narayan Bareth, a journalist in the state capital Jaipur, says a recent survey found that 10% of girls in Rajasthan are married off before the age of 18. There have been several cases of young girls refusing to get married in India but these are rare cases, correspondents say.According to Unicef, 40% of the world's child marriages take place in India, although recent efforts to stop the practice mean the number of such marriages has declined.

Laxmi took action when her in-laws came to claim her

Rakesh only agreed to the annulment after counseling



604-909-4088 Toll Free: 1 866 840 2885

Incomplete Tax Return?

April 30, 2012 is fast approaching. All tax payers who feel that they have not reported or have understated their income in their tax return have the option of rectifying this all by filing an amended tax return. As the consequences of an incorrect or incomplete tax return are known by most tax payers, this option of filing an amended one is a real boon in this crucial time. If you have missed to add the allowable deductions or various credits in your tax return, then you can go ahead to add this information in the amended income tax return.The very first step required in filing an amended income tax return is to access the TI Adjustment Form by visiting the official website of Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). You have to understand that there is no facility provided by CRA to file your amended tax return by electronic means. If you are claiming for a refund, then it is suggested that you should file the amended tax return within three years of filing the original one. Once you have the FORM TI Adjustment your hands, you should start filing the complete information regarding your personal information such as your name, address, SSN and your filing status. It is very important to provide the year in which you filed the original tax return.CRA lists a number of situations in which late, amended or revoked elections are permitted:

• There have been tax consequences not intended by the taxpayer and the taxpayer took reasonable steps to

comply with the law.• The request arises from circumstances beyond the taxpayers control.• The taxpayer acted on incorrect information given by CRA.• The request results from a mechanical error by the taxpayer.• The taxpayer can show that they were not aware of the election provision even if they took a reasonable amount of care to comply with the law and took remedial action as quickly as possible.

Circular IC 07-1 provides an extensive list of specific elections that can be filed late. There are too many to list here and advice should be sought if you think you missed an election. Some of the obvious ones are as follows:

• An election to capitalize interest cost instead of deducting it.• An election to defer the income or capital gain when a replacement property is acquired for a property that was stolen, expropriated, destroyed or a former business property.• An election to designate a property as a principal residence because there has been a change of use to an income producing property.• An election to have a bad debt deemed to be disposed in the year and reacquired to permit a capital loss deduction.

If you have corrections or changes to your Canadian income tax return, wait until you receive your Notice of Assessment to file them.Changes to recent income tax returns can be made online; others must be done by mail. It takes about eight weeks for the Canada Revenue Agency to make an adjustment and mail you a Notice of Reassessment.To make changes to a Canadian income tax return by mail, either write a letter with details of your request or complete a T1-ADJ T1 Adjustment Request form (in PDF). You can request changes for tax years ending in any of the previous 10 calendar years.You must include: · your social insurance number · your address · a telephone number where you can be reached during the day · supporting documentation for the changes you are requesting · supporting documentation for your original claim, if you haven't sent it before.Mail changes to your tax centre.

M. Yasin & CO Inc Mohammed Yasin, B.A. CGA

Youth Performers, Entertainers and Public Speakers are invited to perform…

Bhajans or Devotional Songs; Classical, Filmi & Folk Dances; Poetry, Readings, Personal Experiences; Motivational Talks & Instrumental Music

The event will be held on Saturday,

Bonsor Banquet Hall Bonsor Avenue, Burnaby, BC

(Dinner Included)

For tickets, YTS - Application Forms and information including Scholarship and Volunteer Service Awards,

please contact the following CFOFO Executives:

Contact: Costas PapadopoulosColdwell Banker Vantage RealtyPhone: 604-825-7888email: [email protected]

Property characteristics• 5 Bedroom, 3 Bathroom• Family / Living Room• Den / Study / Dining Room• Full Kitchen & Laundry Room• Home Office• G• Gas Range & Over the Range Microwave• Wall Convection Oven• Side by Side Fridge / Freezer• Standup Deep Freeze• Mini Fridge & Trash Compactor• Saltwater Fibreglass Pool• Det• Detached Garage with 200amp Service• RV & Up To 7 Car Parking• Cable & Internet In Every Room

Built and assembled in December of 1965, the main structure of this Pan-Abode style log home holds a master bedroom, a master bathroom, spare bedroom, den / dining room, and living room.

The garage was added in 1995, followed by the three bedroom, two bathroom addition in 2001, that also holds a laundry room, home office, and kitchen

TThe house has a very spacious backyard that features a custom hand-built toolshed, a playhouse for children, and plenty of yardspace for fun, family activities, all based around the inground fibreglass salt-water pool.

TThe pool has a salt-water generator, heat pump, cartridge filter, tanning ledge, beautiful waterfall, and a large enough deck for family get togethers and days when you just want to lounge about and relax.

$619,900

DREAM HOME WITH POOL15647 80 Ave, Surrey, BC


Word Unscramble Unscramble the words by writing the letters in the correct order in the

space provided.1) ereobf _______________________________ 2) ntsorutiabc ___________________________3) ncotu ________________________________4) dfnecfeeir _____________________________5) eulr __________________________________6) dda __________________________________7) oderr _________________________________8) rgopu _________________________________9) oespptio _______________________________10) tnse __________________________________11) hufort _________________________________12) rnae __________________________________13) afrte __________________________________14) eomr __________________________________

Tips For Raising A Confident ChildFind out how to help make your child feel accepted and capable.One of the biggest building blocks for a successful, fulfilling life is confidence. It helps us set and achieve goals, try new things and meet new people. Confidence can be hard to develop, especially for children. If you give your children the right tools to cope with life's ups and downs, they will be much better equipped to build confidence and a belief in themselves.1. Practice acceptanceEvery child is different. "Think about the fact that some kids are introverted and some are not. There is room on the planet for both," she says. If your child has only one friend, this doesn't necessarily mean he or she is lacking confidence. If they have one friend, you know they are capable of making friends. This is just their style of friendship. Some kids pal around with the entire soccer team, while others choose one person they feel close to. Stop comparing your child's social behaviour to your own. Just because you have many friends and an active social calendar doesn't mean your child will be the same way. 2. Encourage rather than praisePraising your children for an achievement, such as receiving an 'A' on a test or scoring a soccer goal, sounds like a good idea, but not so because you are still judging even when judging favorably. When you praise your child, he or she is only being evaluated on the end product, not the effort put in to get there. In some cases, children can become afraid of losing their parent's love if the next time they don't score a goal or get an 'A', even if they put in the same amount of effort. It's not about the grade or the goal – if your child gave something their all, take notice. When you speak to effort, you can encourage anyone at any age. Emphasize effort and improvement as a way to show your child you are noticing everything they do.3. Break things down into small tasksGloria gives the example of her own daughter, who came home from school recently with a worksheet of 50 math problems. She didn't believe she would be able to complete such a large task so Gloria broke it down. "I cut the sheet into sections of five and asked her if she thought she could do five math problems." She said she could do five at a time and was able to complete the entire task. There are ways around daunting tasks or taking on things that require a lot of confidence. Breaking something down, even something as simple as making the bed or tying shoes, can make

kids feel more capable of taking on new tasks, Gloria explains. 4. Turn mistakes into opportunities to learnLets face it, we all make mistakes – big and small. But its how we deal with them that really matters. The same applies to children. If your child spills a glass of milk, don't yell at them for making a mess or make them feel like they've done something terribly wrong, instead, show them how to clean up the mess. This teaches them they are capable of taking control over a situation, even when things don't work out. Discuss the mistake and plan for minimizing the chances for it happening again. If children know mistakes aren't the end of the world, they will be less likely to avoid trying new things based on a fear of failure.5. Help children develop skills One of the biggest building blocks for self esteem nugget lies in feeling capable. This is a big piece of the self-confidence puzzle. As soon as your child is old enough to brush their hair, dress themselves or cut their French toast, let them do it by themselves. By doing everything for them, you aren't allowing them to develop skills or a belief that they can try new things. Present your child with a task that seems just out of their reach, but that you as a parent know they can handle. The more they do by themselves, the more confident in their own abilities they'll become.6. Set a good exampleEven if you are conscious about ensuring you do all of the above to help build and maintain a child's confidence, you also have to be conscious of how you react to your own mistakes. If your child sees you throw your hands up in frustration and beat yourself up after burning the lasagna, chances are, your kids will pick up on this behaviour. Children learn by example and what you do and say when something goes wrong can influence how they handle similar situations. Try to turn your own mistakes and frustrations into learning experience for the whole family, rather than using to negative self-talk or anger.

Friday April 27, 2012www.fijitimescanada.com Times Health

This information is provided for knowledge and educational purposes only. Individuals should visit their physicians for more information on their health.

32

Ovarian Cancer Hits Taller Women MoreTaller women are more vulnerable to ovarian cancer than their shorter counterparts, says new research based on a review of 47 studies, involving

more than 100,000 females.Every two inches in height increased the odds of developing the disease by seven percent. Tall women could simply have more cells that can become cancerous, the study said.The finding holds true even when other

factors such as age and use of the pill were taken into account, the journal Public Library of Science-Medicine reported.Researchers also found that the disease was more common in overweight women.Paul Pharoah, Cambridge University

Prostate Cancer

cancer expert, said while the analysis was valid, the impact on individual women would be small.With women in the Western world gradually getting taller as well as fatter, it is important to make the link.

But others urged tall women not to worry, saying their overall odds of developing the disease were still small.Ovarian cancer is the fifth most common cancer in women, with more 6,500 cases diagnosed each year in Britain.

Prostate cancer is a very common form of male cancer. So whether someone is newly diagnosed or looking for information in helping a loved one understand and cope with this condition, here you’ll find all the information needed to understand prostate cancer.DefinitionProstate cancer is the most common form of male cancer in the United States. It affects the prostate gland, a small, walnut-shaped gland located under the bladder and in front of the rectum in men. This gland produces seminal fluid, which is responsible for nourishing and transporting sperm for reproduction.• There are different types of prostate

cancer. Some progress very slowly and require little treatment, while others progress very quickly and require very aggressive treatment.

• It is rare for prostate cancer to occur in men under the age of 40, and most cases are diagnosed in men over the age of 65.

• Each year there are more than 240,000 new cases of prostate cancer diagnosed and sadly nearly 34,000 men lose their battle with this cancer each year. If caught early, it is highly treatable and the overall outlook is good.

Causes And Risk FactorsTo date, the exact cause of prostate cancer is unknown. What is known is that the cancer develops when the genetic mutations in an abnormal cell’s DNA causes the abnormal cell to grow and multiply out of control. These cells don’t die, as healthy cells do. The continuous growth and multiplication causes a tumor to develop. Once a tumor develops, men often experience problems with urination and sexual abilities. This is what takes them to their doctor, though many men wait until it’s too late because they are simply too embarrassed to talk to their doctors about the problem.

There are a number of risk factors associated with prostate cancer:• Age: This is the strongest risk

factor for prostate cancer. It rarely develops before the age of 40, but after 50, the risk increases dramatically.

• A f r i c a n - A m e r i c a n background: Prostate cancer is more prevalent in African-American men, than those from any other background. African-American men are more often diagnosed in more advanced stages and are more than two times more likely to die of prostate cancer than men of other backgrounds.

• Family history of prostate cancer: As with many types of cancer, prostate cancer is known to run in families. Men with a family history are more than twice as likely to develop prostate cancer themselves. One in 10 who develops prostate cancer has a family history of the cancer.

• Geographic location: One’s geographic location may increase the risk of prostate cancer. For example, more white men develop prostate cancer when living in New England and in the northwest region of the country than anywhere else.

• Unhealthy diet: Diets high in fat and calories are shown to increase the risk of developing prostate cancer.

• An inactive lifestyle: Those who get little to no exercise are more likely to develop prostate cancer.

SymptomsIn the early stages of prostate cancer, men may experience no symptoms at all. As the disease progresses, they may experience the following symptoms:• Difficulty urinating • Decreased force in the stream of

urine • Blood in urine • Blood in semen

• Leg swelling • Pelvic area discomfort • Bone painLike many forms of cancers, the symptoms associated with prostate cancer are non-specific and can also be associated with a number of other conditions, such as benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH), also known as an enlarged prostate.A doctor will likely perform a physical exam as well as a blood test to measure the Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA). These two things together will tell the doctor if the problem is cancer or something else.While recommendations differ, most experts recommend routine prostate cancer screenings for men over the age of 50. Of course any man who experiences any of the above symptoms should see their doctor immediately to discuss their concerns and be screened for prostate cancer.TreatmentThe type of treatment that a man will receive will be determined by their doctor but will likely include surgery, radiation and hormone therapy. In some cases though, particularly those that aren’t advanced and aren’t progressing quickly, a doctor may take a “wait and see” approach.• Surgery is used to remove the

tumor, or in some cases to remove the whole prostate, depending upon how far the tumor has spread. In the past there was a concern about men being able to retain sexual function after the surgery but advances in surgical techniques have been able to preserve sexual function in some cases.

• Radiation therapy is sometimes used in addition to surgery or instead of surgery. The radiation is aimed directly at the tumor in order to destroy it. It can also be used in later stages to help reduce pain.

• Hormone therapy is a very effective form of treatment for

prostate cancer. Hormones are administered that reduce the levels of androgens (male hormones) in the body. These hormones cause the tumors in the prostate to grow. The drawback to this therapy is that it can become less effective over time and men may experience some feminizing side effects such as decreased sexual drive and tender breast tissue.

• Chemotherapy is also used in treating prostate cancer. However, it is only used in specific situations in which there is a concern that the cancer may return, otherwise, it is not used in most cases.

PrognosisThe prognosis for prostate cancer is very good, provided that the cancer has not metastasized, meaning it has not spread to other areas of the body. When it is confined to the prostate and surrounding tissue the 5-year survival rate is nearly 100 percent. If the cancer spreads, the 5-year survival rate is not so good, only about 29 percent. However, only about 4 percent of cases are diagnosed in this extremely late stage.With routine screening prostate cancer can be detected as early as possible. With treatment, prostate cancer survivors can move on with their lives in good health and never look back.

Friday April 27, 2012www.fijitimescanada.com Times World News 33

Zookeeper Crushed To Death By Elephant

A New Zealand zookeeper was crushed to death when an elephant sat on her, emergency officials and media reports said.Police confirmed they were called to an incident involving an elephant and its keeper late in the afternoon at Franklin Zoo, near Auckland, but said no further information would be released until the woman's family were informed.Local news said the woman died when the elephant sat on her.A fire service spokesman said when they arrived at the zoo "the elephant had been secured and paramedics were working with the patient" who had since died.In an article posted on the zoo website in 2010, sanctuary director and veterinary surgeon Helen Schofield said Jumbo had settled in well and developed close

and affectionate relationships with her team of keepers."She is responding well by presenting feet for care, all parts of her body for washing, rub-downs and other health care procedures," Ms Schofield said."Our dream for Jumbo is to get her in a situation where she can have other African elephants for company."It is a tremendous privilege to take care of Jumbo. I feel personally humbled and flattered by the big ear flapping purrs she gives me as a greeting when I return to see her from other activities in the sanctuary. She is so affectionate and responsive."The zoo negotiated the release of the 40-year-old elephant in 2009 from a circus where it had lived in shackles for 30 years.

'He Hurt My Privates,' Says Angry US Congressman As Texas

Airport Pat-Down Gets Nasty AN airport pat-down was met with a furious smack down when a security

screener touched a US congressman's private parts.

Freshman Rep. Francisco Canseco (R-Texas) said the San Antonio Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officer handled that sensitive moment of the screening process roughly, causing him pain."He touched me in my private parts and it hurt," the lawmaker said, adding that he batted the officer's hand away - causing a hostile standoff in which police were summoned and both men demanded the other be arrested on assault charges, as reported.Father-of-three Canseco said, "It's embarrassing to say that, but that's true. I was going through the body scanner; the agent stopped me there and said, 'I'm going to pat you down.'"I said fine. I lifted my arms up, he starts on my leg, and as he's starting up on my leg he goes up very aggressively, and he hurt me. The natural reaction is to move aside."The 62-year-old said, "As I moved his hand away, he claims, 'I've been assaulted, I've been assaulted.'"As the guard urged a cop to arrest the lawmaker, Mr Canseco in turn protested,

"Hey, I'm the guy who was assaulted."In the event neither was arrested over last week's incident.However, Mr Canseco was pulled aside for a second pat-down at the same airport this week - an incident which he does not believe was a coincidence, although the TSA insists both checks were random.Mr Canseco said he is "very sensitive to security" and believes US agencies must be on guard for potential terrorists - but said he also believes the TSA should be more careful not to offend travelers’ dignity.The Canseco case is one of several incidents in which travellers have complained of heavy-handedness or insensitivity on the part of TSA screeners - most infamously when one outraged passenger sparked a catchphrase, by telling agents, "Don't touch my junk."Mr Canseco this year co-sponsored a Bill seeking to ban TSA agents from using law enforcement trappings, such as wearing police-style uniforms and being called "officer."

Mad Cow Disease Found In CaliforniaUnited States authorities have reported the country's first case of mad cow disease in six years.The US Department of Agriculture reported the country's fourth case of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) in a Californian dairy cow, but stressed the outbreak was contained and no meat had entered the food chain.The first US mad cow case in late 2003 caused the nation's beef exports to drop by nearly $3 billion the following year.BSE cannot be transmitted through milk. "USDA remains confident in the health of the national herd and the safety of beef and dairy products. As the epidemiological investigation

progresses, USDA will continue to communicate findings in a timely and transparent manner," agriculture department officials said.Samples from the infected animal were sent to a laboratory in Ames, Iowa, where they proved positive for a rare form of the disease.The results are being shared with labs in Britain and Canada.The admission of even a limited outbreak is highly sensitive; previous cases of mad cow in the US, Canada, Israel, Europe and Japan have caused disruptions to the global food trade worth billions of dollars.A stream of sanctions and restrictions were introduced and in some cases and entire herds of cattle had to be

slaughtered, destroying the livelihoods of many farmers.'US beef is safe'Wary US beef producers were also keen to prevent a panic."The most important message is that US beef is safe," said Philip Seng, US Meat Export Federation.According to the organisation, US beef exports are worth more than $342 million each month, with Mexico, Canada, South Korea and Japan among the main export markets.The United States has an estimated 90.8 million head of cattle, forming a large chunk of the economy in states like Texas, Nebraska, Kansas and California.Around 40,000 US cattle are tested by

the Department of Agriculture each year.More than 190,000 cases of mad cow disease have been detected in the European Union since it was first diagnosed in Britain in 1986, forcing the destruction of millions of cows.More than 200 people around the world are suspected to have died, most of them in Britain, from the human variant of the disease, which was first described in 1996.Scientists believe the disease was caused by using infected parts of cattle to make feed for other cattle.Authorities believe eating meat from infected animals can trigger the human variant of the fatal brain-wasting disease.

Chicago Man Stabbed Elderly Dad 100 Times Over Missed Phone Call From Woman A 31-year-old man was being held without bail after fatally stabbing his elderly father more than 100 times during an argument over a missed phone call.

When police arrived at their property in Hegewisch - 32km south of downtown Chicago - about 10:00pm they found 71-year-old Nikolaus Douzopoulos dead in the basement, as reported.Miltiadis Douzopoulos, 31, had attacked his father when the pair argued about the elder Douzopoulos

apparently failing to tell him about a phone call from a woman, prosecutors said.Prosecutors said police found Nikolaus Douzopoulos with more than 100 stab wounds to his chest, neck, abdomen and arms. A knife was sticking out from his chest.

Shortly after the attack, Miltiadis Douzopoulos rang a family member to complain that his father had "ruined his life" by not letting him know about the phone call.Miltiadis Douzopoulos also rang 911 the same night and confessed to the crime.

"I killed my father, I need to go to jail," he told Chicago Fire Department crews who arrived at the scene.He repeatedly asked arresting officers if he would be executed.He was ordered to be held on first-degree murder charges, and is due to appear in court next on May 5.

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Mexico-US Migration Slips After 40 Years Of Growth

The rate of Mexican immigration to the US has stalled or maybe even gone into reverse, an analysis shows, ending a four-decade-long trend.A Pew Hispanic Center study shows immigration began to slow five years ago and may have reversed by 2010.Economic factors, increased border control, and lower Mexican birth rates were all cited as factors.More than 12 million migrants entered the US from Mexico since 1970, more than half legally, the report says."Looking back over the entire span of US history, no country has ever seen as many of its people immigrate to this country as Mexico has in the past four decades," the report's authors note.However, figures clearly show major changes to the long-term trend over the years 2005-2010. A decade earlier, from 1995-2000, some 2.9 million Mexicans arrived in the US, with just 670,000 people leaving the country for Mexico - a net influx to the US of more than 2.2 million people. Between 2005 and 2010, though, just 1.37 million arrived from Mexico - and 1.39 million left to cross the southern border."While it is not possible to say so with certainty, the trend lines within this latest five-year period suggest that return flow to Mexico probably exceeded the inflow from Mexico during the past year or two."Deportation The downward trend includes a sharp reduction in the number of illegal Mexican migrants living in the US, the report says.The numbers of unauthorised Mexicans

living in the US fell from nearly seven million in 2007 to 6.1 million in 2011, according to estimates based on US census data.During those years the numbers of legal Mexican migrants in the US rose slightly, increasing by 200,000 to 5.8 million.The data tallies with previous figures released by the US government that showed the Obama administration deporting record numbers of illegal immigrants for three successive years from 2009.According to data in the Pew report, a "significant minority" of the 1.3 million people - between 5% and 35% - who left the US for Mexico did not leave the country voluntarily.The issue of immigration is a sensitive one in a presidential election year. New immigration laws in several states, including Alabama and Arizona, have placed a heavy focus on efforts to crack down on illegal immigration by requiring individuals to present valid US documents.Backers of the new laws say the requirement to present documents encourages people without the legal right to be in the US to leave the country of their own accord.That process of attrition was referred to as "self-deportation" during this year's Republican primary season.Arizona's law was being challenged in the US Supreme Court on Wednesday.Presumptive Republican nominee Mitt Romney polls badly among Latino voters, while President Barack Obama generally retains broad support despite his stern deportation policy.

Dead Toddler 'Swung Into Wall' A man was charged with murdering a toddler by allegedly swinging the boy into a wall, the St Louis Post-Dispatch reported. Police said Jarrod W. Rudder of Elkville, Illinois, was supposed to be taking care of two-year-old Michael Pulliam at the time of the incident last Saturday in St. Louis. His relationship to the child was not immediately known.He allegedly grabbed the boy by the wrist and slammed him into a wall and

a lamp.Paramedics were summoned and took Michael to a hospital in Carbondale, Illinois. He was later flown to St Louis Children's Hospital, where he died.Authorities said the toddler had brain bleeding plus multiple broken bones and contusions.Mr Rudder was charged with first-degree murder. He was ordered to be held in the Jackson County Jail pending a bail hearing.

Suspicious Youngster Strangles Girlfriend In Bed

A suspicious British youngster strangled his model girlfriend in bed and his parents helped him cover up the murder, a court has heard. Elliot Turner, 20, allegedly "flipped out" and killed Emily Longley, 17, after becoming suspicious that she had been having affairs during their four-month relationship.His mother, Anita, 51, and father, Leigh, 57, of coastal resort town Bournemouth, initially told police they had heard Longley talking in their son's bedroom, even though the prosecution says she was already dead.Turner, son of a wealthy jeweller, is

said to have threatened to kill Longley with a hammer and boasted: "I will go to prison for it and still be a millionaire when I come out."Winchester Crown Court heard that after the alleged murder last May Turner wrote a confession, but it was destroyed with bleach by his 54-year-old father, Leigh.He said they had argued the night before and she had attacked him, and when he woke up beside her she was dead.When arrested Turner had his passport in his pocket and his bags packed, the Winchester Crown Court was told.The trial continues.

Woman Sues Over Severed Leg Tendon

A woman who claims hospital emergency staff misdiagnosed a severed tendon in her leg is suing Queensland Health. Jacque Forster, of Hemmant in eastern Brisbane, suffered a deep gash to her leg during a workplace accident on January 4.She went to Wynnum Hospital for treatment, but said staff in the emergency department did not notice or test for the tendon injury, and merely stitched the wound."Eight days later my GP discovered the tendon was severed when removing the stitches and I had an ultrasound within the next three days," Ms Forster said.

She said she had microsurgery in Brisbane 20 days after the accident, and fears permanent damage to her leg."I am still in a lot of pain and have had infections," she said."I have trouble driving to pick my daughters up from school, and I haven't been able to go back to work since the accident."My leg looks like I've been bitten by a shark."Ms Forster has already received a public apology from Queensland Health over the incident.No details have been revealed about the amount of damages Ms Forster is seeking through her claim.

22M Chinese Seek Migration To USExperts in China have called for more measures from the government to stop the outflow of talent after an American study said 22 million Chinese want to

leave the country and settle in the US.

The findings by Gallup showed that about 13 percent of the world's adults -- or more than 640 million people -- said they would like to leave their country permanently.The US is the most desired destination for potential migrants. Around 150 million people want to move to the US, including 22 million from China, 15 million from Nigeria and 10 million from India.According to Gallup, the results were based on telephone and face-to-face interviews with 452,199 people, aged 15 and older, in 151 countries and regions from 2009 to 2011.The findings sparked a mixed response, with some skeptical about the data."The survey cannot reflect the real picture in China," said He Weiwen, a

co-director of the China-US-EU Study Center.Statistics from the US government showed that Chinese migrants to the country were rising.In 2011, the US granted green cards to 1.06 million immigrants, among whom, 87,000 were from China. The figure was 16,000 more than in 2010.According to Gallup, the main reason for choosing the US was its society's openness to migrants, followed by other reasons such as opportunities to join family members or to start a new business.Official statistics in China showed that from the late 1970s to 2011, the number of Chinese studying abroad was more than two million, but only 818,400 of them returned.



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‘The Dirty Picture’ TV Premiere Stalled Despite Cuts, Bollywood FuriousThe much-anticipated television premiere of Vidya Balan starrer “The Dirty Picture” was stalled at the last moment Sunday, despite 59 cuts in the film to make it suitable for television viewing. While film’s director Milan Luthria is shocked and disappointed, filmmaker Karan Johar branded it hypocrisy.The government moved quickly to stall the screening of film by an entertainment television channel, ostensibly due to its “adult” content, and asked the channel to telecast it late in the night after prime time.Information and broadcasting ministry officials in New Delhi said that they have sent a letter to Sony TV not to telecast the movie during prime time Sunday.“The channel has been told to screen the movie only after 11 p.m.,” they said to a query in this regard.This directive from the ministry left Luthria, fuming, even as the Mumbai film industry reacted angrily to the

development.“I am shocked and disappointed that this decision was taken at the last moment. For the last two months we have been working on this and as per the rule few scenes had to be cut to get the U/A certificate. Don’t harass us like this,” Luthria said.

“We re-submitted the film after 59 cuts. Now I am curious to know why has this happened. DVDs of the films are already out and many people have already seen it,” Luthria added.The film, which is reportedly based on the story of late southern actress Silk Smitha and fetched Vidya Balan her first National Award, was to be shown at 12 noon and at 8 p.m. Sunday on Sony TV. However, it was not shown. Sony had bought the rights of the Ekta Kapoor’s production venture for Rs 8 crore.After the decision to pull it off from the small screen, Sony ran a ticker saying: “For unavoidable reasons we regret to inform that the film ‘The Dirty Picture’ will not be telecast today. Any inconvenience caused is deeply regretted.”Johar too was surprised at the decision.“A national award winning film cannot have a national telecast??? this is not an irony but plain and simple hypocrisy!!!! #dirtypicture. If the

censorship is not a final authority then what is??? Complicated and blurred lines defeat the core of democracy!!!! #dirtypicture,” he tweeted.The film, which also features Tusshar Kapoor, Naseeruddin Shah and Emraan Hashmi, is replete with “bold scenes” and after cuts it was given a UA certification for being shown on Indian television.Tusshar also expressed his disappointment on Twitter.“Really unfortunate that after all the necessary cuts and a valid UA certificate, The Dirty Picture could not be telecast today on Sony TV,” he tweeted.“In light of recent events that exposed the dark side of Bollywood, ‘The Dirty Picture’ was well timed as it depicts a similar harsh reality!“Sad that inspite of being acclaimed for it’s entertaining realism and having won 3 National Awards the regulatory forces have stalled the show,” Tusshar posted.

I’m Super Excited To Play Dawood Ibrahim – Sonu Sood

Bollywood actor Sonu Sood is excited to essay underworld don Dawood Ibrahim in “Shootout At Wadala”, and he is doing his bit to carry off the role perfectly.“I am super excited to play Dawood Ibrahim. My homework is on. I am reading about him and doing research on him. I am all set to play the role,” Sonu said.Sonu says “Shootout At Wadala”, based on the 1982 shootout in which criminal Manya Surve was killed, is all about gangsters.“It is a film based on gangsters. It’s about the rise of Dawood. It’s more of an action drama,” he said.The actor, who is playing a negative role yet again after essaying Chhedi Singh in blockbuster “Dabangg”, has no issues with the shade of any role.“I don’t believe in negative or positive roles. Cinema has changed. For me, it’s all about good and bad roles. I am just

looking forward to this film,” he said.Directed by Sanjay Gupta, the film, a prequel to 2007 film “Shootout At Lokhandwala”, also features John Abraham, Anil Kapoor, Tusshar Kapoor, Kangna Ranaut, Manoj Bajpai, Ronit Roy and Mahesh Manjrekar.

SRK, Juhi Now In TV CommercialAfter teaming up in movies like "Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman", "Darr", "Yes

Boss" and "Duplicate", popular onscreen duo Shah Rukh Khan and Juhi Chawla would soon recreate their magic in a television commercial.

Scripted and directed by Kabir Sadanand, the ad is a sequel to the last edition of the Matrix Forex TV commercial.Set in a courtroom, the ad shows Shah Rukh as a criminal and Juhi as a judge.The duo was last seen together in 2008 film "Bhootnath" and this is said to be their first commercial together.Both of them became business partners

with Dreamz Unlimited before Shah Rukh took it over in 2004 and made it Red Chillies Entertainment. Now Shah Rukh, Juhi and her husband Jai Mehta are co-owners of Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Kolkata Knight Riders.Set to be aired soon, the advertisement also features cricketers Brett Lee, Yusuf Pathan and Brendon McCullum.


The Evergreen Nightingale Completes 70 Years of Singing

Lata Mangeshkar, the nightingale of India, completes seven decades of singing melodious songs for Indian films. She sang her first movie song in 1942 for the Marathi film “Kiti Hassal”. That year, she had acted in a movie too. But, Lata says she hated acting and was keen on singing. How right her choice has proved!!!!!Lata was forced to become a playback singer because of her father’s death in 1942. At an age when young girls play with dolls, Lata was forced to become the bread-winner for her family. But she has no regrets today. Lata says if her father had not passed away, she might have chosen classical singing over playback singing. So, Hindustani music’s loss has turned out to be Bollywood’s gain and how!!!!!

Asha Bhosle Keeps Grandsons Away From Today’s Films

Veteran singer Asha Bhosle is not too pleased with the “vulgar” content of contemporary films. So, she prefers to keep her grandchildren away from watching these.“Hindi films are growing. Some good, small films are being made. But some films are very vulgar, they have abusive and vulgar dialogues,” Bhosle said here.“It’s not good for the new generation. I don’t show these films to my grandsons because then they start talking in the same manner,” added the 78-year-old.

Nevertheless, she is set to make her acting debut with the title role in the film “Maaee”. It is a sensitive tale of a woman who is abandoned by her only son and narrates how she finds shelter in her daughter and son-in-law’s house.Meanwhile, the veteran singer, who has been the voice of actresses ranging from Waheeda Rehman, Vijanthimala, Sadhana, Sharmila Tagore to Rekha, Urmila Matondkar and Aishwarya Rai, says she has been lucky to have received so much love from the audiences for the past 65 years.“I have been in this line for 65 years and I have literally ruled the industry during this time. I sung so many songs and got so much love and respect from the public. I don’t know how much the industry loves me, but rarely does anyone get so much love from the public as I have,” she said. Bhosle, who has sung more than 12,000 songs in 18 languages, first sang in Bollywood in the 1956 film “C.I.D.”. Besides singing for Bollywood, she has cut a lot of private albums and even partnered with some international artists.In 2006, Bhosle recorded a song for a Pakistani film “Mein Ek Din Laut Kay Aaaonga”.

Sanjay Dutt To Sing Extra Song For ‘Department’

The trailers of “Department” are already in theatres and the promotional clippings are ready to be aired on the small screen. But the film’s producers have decided to shoot an additional song, to be sung by actor Sanjay Dutt.Sanjay will also feature in the song, to be choreographed by his friend and protégé, Ahmed Khan, according to a source from Viacom18 Motion Pictures, producers of “Department”.“The peppy edgy number has been composed by Sandeep Chowta and Mr. Dutt would be recording the song in his own voice. There’s no doubt that Sanjay Dutt is a major attraction after ‘Agneepath’. We want to make sure he is projected as the film’s USP,” said the source.Sanjay will himself take charge of the song, which besides being aired on all

the channels, would also be appended on to the Ram Gopal Varma-directorial for the end credits.Choreographer Khan confirmed the shooting of the additional song for the movie, which also features Rana Daggubati and megastar Amitabh Bachchan.“Yes, we are shooting a song for ‘Department’. It’s a music video to be sung by Baba (Sanjay). He and I are getting together once again after ‘Aye Shivani’ in Sanjay Chhel’s ‘Khoobsurat’ (he sang it and I shot it),” said Khan.“This time it’s an edgy song with no dancing,” he added.Apart from “Aye Shivani”, Sanjay had also sung a part of the title track of Rajkumar Hirani’s “Munnabhai M.B.B.S.” and also gave his voice to a song in “Kaante”.


Dharmendra

Dharmendra Singh Deol, born December 8, 1935 in Nasrali, Ludhiana (India)|Punjab.Dharmendra, is an award-winning Hindi film actor who has appeared in more than 247 Hindi-language films as of 2011. In 1997, he received the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award for his contribution to Hindi cinema and also another Lifetime achievement Award at the 2007 IIFA Awards.He is often referred to as the "He-Man" as well as the "Action King" of Hindi cinema having starred in numerous action films and is considered a living legend. He is father of actors Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol and Esha Deol. At the peak of his film career he was considered the most handsome actor in Bollywood and a matinée idol. He was one of the lead actors of the all-time blockbuster film, Sholay (1975) and also went on to star in numerous successful Bollywood films cutting across five decades. Dharmendra has thus established himself as one of the most prominent figures in the history of hindi cinema.In 2012, he was honoured with the Padma Bhushan by the Government of India. He was also a member of the 14th Lok Sabha of India, representing Bikaner constituency in Rajasthan from Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).Dharmendra won the Filmfare new talent award and came to Mumbai from Punjab looking for work. Starting with Arjun Hingorani's Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere (1960), he worked in several romantic black and white films in the early 1960s, hitting solo hero stardom with the blockbuster, Phool Aur Patthar (1966). At the start of his career, he was usually cast as a romantic hero and later in the period from 1974 onwards as an action hero. He starred with several leading actresses at the beginning of his career. He worked with Nutan in

Soorat Aur Seerat (1962) and Bandini (1963), Mala Sinha in Anpadh (1962) and Pooja Ke Phool (1964), Saira Banu in Shaadi (1962) and Ayee Milan Ki Bela (1964) and with Meena Kumari in Main Bhi Ladki Hoon (1964), Kaajal (1965), Poornima (1965) and Phool Aur Paththar (1966).Phool Aur Paththar became the highest grossing film of 1966 and Dharmendra received his first Filmfare nomination for Best Actor. He formed a very successful pairing with actresses like Meena Kumari, Saira Banu, Sharmila Tagore, Mumtaz, Asha Parekh, Rekha, Zeenat Aman and Hema Malini. His most successful pairing was with Hema Malini, who went on to become his future wife. They formed a hit pair delivering phenomenal hits like, Raja Jani, Seeta Aur Geeta, Sharafat, Tum Haseen Main Jawaan, Jugnu, Dost, Charas, Maa, Chacha Bhatija, Azaad, and Sholay. The critically acclaimed 1980 film, The Burning Train also saw the Dharam-Hema chemistry in full flight.His most notable acting performance was Satyakam with and Sholay, where he appeared as the inimitable Veeru. Sholay went on to become the biggest hit in the history of Hindi cinema and is listed by Indiatimes as one of the "Top 25 must see Bollywood films of all time". In 2005, the judges of the 50th annual Filmfare Awards awarded Sholay with the special distinction award called Filmfare Best Film of 50 Years. Dharmendra went on to star in numerous successful Bollywood films in the 1970s and 80s like Pratigya, Dharam Veer, Charas, Azaad, Katilon Ke Kaatil, Ghazab, Bhagawat, Dharam Aur Kanoon, Hukumat, Raaj Tilak, Watan Ke Rakhwale, Aag Hi Aag, Ghulami, Hathyar and Loha.He has worked with various directors, each having different styles in their film-making, like Bimal Roy and Mohan Kumar in drama films, Yash Chopra and Raghunath Jhalani in romance films, Raj Khosla, Ramesh Sippy, Arjun Hingorani, Anil Sharma and Rajkumar Santoshi in action films and Hrishikesh Mukherjee, Basu Chatterjee and Rajkumar Kohli in comedy films. He also has the distinction of appearing in quite a few films opposite actresses who have also starred opposite his son Sunny Deol. Notable amongst those are Sridevi in Naaka Bandi, Jaya Prada in Elaan-E-Jung, Dimple Kapadia in Shehzaade, Amrita Singh in Sachai Ki Taaqat,

Kimi Katkar in Humlaa and Poonam Dhillon in Sone Pe Suhaaga.He has also periodically done films in his native tongue of Punjabi, starring in Do Sher (1974), Dukh Bhanjan Tera Naam (1974), Teri Meri Ik Jindri (1975), Putt Jattan De (1982) and Qurbani Jatt Di (1990). Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, he continued to appear in many more films playing leading roles or supporting roles. In 1997, he received the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award. While receiving the award from Dilip Kumar and his wife Saira Banu, Dharmendra became emotional and remarked that he never received any Filmfare award in the Best Actor category despite having worked in so many successful films and nearly a hundred popular movies. He was glad that his contributions had finally been recognized. Speaking on the occasion Dilip Kumar commented, "Whenever I get to meet with God Almighty I will set before Him my only complaint-why did You not make me as handsome as Dharmendra?".He has experimented with film production; he launched both of his sons in films: Sunny Deol in Betaab (1983) and Bobby Deol in Barsaat (1995) as well as his nephew Abhay Deol in Socha Na Tha (2005). In one of her interviews, actress Preity Zinta has been quoted as saying that Dharmendra is her favourite actor. She went on to recommend him to play her father's role in Har Pal (2008).After a few years relief from acting since the early 2000s, he is reappearing in films as a character actor. His 2007 films Life in a... Metro and Apne were both critically and commercially successful at the box office. In the latter, he appears with both his sons, Sunny and Bobby for the first time. His other release was Johnny Gaddaar, where he played a villainous role. His latest film Yamla Pagla Deewana co-starring his sons Sunny and Bobby was released on January 14, 2011.In 2011, Dharmendra replaced Sajid Khan as the male judge of the third series of popular reality show India's Got Talent. On July 29, 2011, India's Got Talent aired on Colors with Dharmendra as the new judge and surpassed the opening ratings of the previous two seasons.Dharmendra receiving his life achievement award 2007 from Swiss producer Johannes Boesiger In the mid seventies, he was voted as one of the most handsome men in the

world, a feat only repeated by Salman Khan in 2004. · He has received the World Iron Man award. · He has also received a Special Award for "contribution in Indian Cinema" at the Kalakar Awards. · He is a recipient of the prestigious "Living Legend Award" by the Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the Indian entertainment industry. · In 2003 he received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Sansui Viewers' Choice Movie Awards. · In 2004, he was honoured for Best Contribution to Indian Cinema. · In 2005, he received the Zee Cine Award for Lifetime Achievement. · In 2007, he was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Pune International Film Festival (PIFF), IIFA Lifetime Achievement Award, award for Humanitarian Services to the Indian Nation, awarded a Lifetime Achievement award by DBR Entertainment, Quami Ekta honoured him for his contributions to the Indian cinema.· In 2008, he was named "Actor Par Excellence" at the Max Stardust Awards, received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 10th Mumbai Academy of the Moving Image International Film (M.A.M.I), · In 2009, he received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Nashik International Film Festival (NIFF). · In 2010, he was honoured as the Big Star Entertainer for his 50 years of excellence at the Big Star Entertainment Awards. · In 2011, he received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Apsara Film and Television Producers Guild Awards. · In 2011, he received a "Salaam Maharashtra Award" for completion of 50 years in the film industry, he was honoured with "Outstanding Performance For The Last 50 Years" award at the Global Indian Film & Television Honors, honoured with the Dadasaheb Phalke Ratna award, honoured with "The ITA Scroll Of Honour" at the Indian Television Academy Awards, · In 2012, he was honoured with the Padma Bhushan by the Government of India, honoured with the "Icon of Punjab Award" at the PTC Punjabi Film Awards.

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Spring-Cleaning Tips

This year, we've made spring-cleaning easy! Get all our best tips and tricks in one place.Shop Before You MopFirst things first. Before you dive into a bucket of detergent, make sure you're equipped with all of the necessary spring-cleaning weapons. My spring-cleaning toolkit below will ensure you have everything you need to whip your home into tip-top shape. • Vacuum with attachments • Microfiber cloths • Sponges • Paper towels/clean rags • Scrub brush/toothbrush • Plastic grocery bags • Multipurpose Cleaner • Window Cleaner • Liquid dish soap • Essential oils (cinnamon/

peppermint/orange) • Baking soda • Vinegar • Hydrogen peroxide • Rubbing alcoholMultipurpose Cleaner • 1 teaspoon mild liquid dish soap • 1 quart water

Window Cleaner • 1 cup ammonia • 1 cup rubbing alcohol • 1 cup waterPour into a spray bottle and shake well. Clearly mark the bottle! You can use it full strength or dilute it with a little more water.Give Dirt the Cold Shoulder How to clean your refrigerator fast: First, unplug it. Use the crevice attachment of the vacuum or a flat long-handled brush to carefully remove the dust from the coils underneath or on the back side of the fridge, because accumulated dust can cause the motor to overheat and costs more to run.Pull out the vegetable drawers, empty them, and clean. Go through items and throw away old or expired items. If your food always seems to go bad before you use it, learn how to keep your food from spoiling too soon. Wipe down all surfaces (shelves and doors) with a mix of 4 tablespoons of baking soda to a quart of water. Clean the sealing rubber gasket around the door with a damp sponge only (no caustic cleaners).

To clean out your freezer in a flash, go on to day three. Clean Your Freezer in a Flash

If you have a stand-alone unit, unplug your freezer and vacuum and dust the coils and area around the unit as you did with the refrigerator. Have coolers and ice on hand to store your frozen food while you clean. Check for out-of-date items and discard them. Wipe down the interior surfaces using the same cleaning solution you used for your refrigerator. Clean the sealing rubber gasket with only a damp sponge (no caustic cleaners).If you need to remove ice buildup, use a plastic spatula and be very careful scraping ice away. Have a bucket or bowl handy and lots of old towels to sop up water and make the job mess-free.Transform Your Toaster

Make your toaster oven sparkle in

no time. First, unplug the appliance. Remove the crumb tray at the base of the toaster, and shake out the accumulated food particles. My toaster oven is hung under a cabinet, so I lay down several sections of newspaper to catch the crumbs. Wipe off the tray and element with soap and water, and then rinse with fresh water. Clean the window with a vinegar-and-water solution and scrub with a plastic scrubbie to remove any spots. Dry well and wipe down the outer surface.

Continued Next Week

Annie Ji Receives an Award from NDP MLA Sue HammelAnnie Ji from Red FM 93.1 celebrates the victory with a wonderfully diverse and hard working team of individuals who shared her deep desire to live a better, more prosperous Canada for her people and as a Canadian she says which has all accessible and rich opportunities for the country's youth and that is how Annie helps many to get those opportunities and in need. Annie born in Fiji Islands City of Suva. She was in the family of 5 siblings and youngest of all. She earned her degree from University of the South Pacific in Public Administration. She came to Canada in 1979. She was a committed and talented teacher. Music is Annie’s life her hobby and today Annie's career as a radio host at 93.1Red FM. Her greatest achievement was with her voice which many people love she brought back a 12year old back from coma after the child was in motor vehicle accident. When everybody lost

hope doctors gave word Annie said I believe in miracles and so on air she started to reach out to this child and this was live on air miracle did happen. That day many people cried off air and on air it was amazing day Annie never can forget the power of love a hope a miracle and surely a gift of life.Annie is loved by her community very much they have given her many names hot mriche ,billo rani, indian opra, and Annie Ji from Fijian connection on 93.1 Red FM on Saturday morning program. Annie Ji said my personal experiences and practices, I am now ready to share the journey with other woman to understand and awaken the powerful energy. I feel the end results are very rewarding. It is the deep experience within us which is a birth right of every woman. I love my people and have a message for them do to others what you like done to you , don't just rise but shine and lastly

medicine for a happy life is laugh and make others laugh, life is too short make the most of it. May god bless you all. This award is for everybody proud to be a Fijian. (My award reads

Annie Singh with NDP MLA Sue Hammel

congratulations to Annie Ji recipient of the prestigious ethnic diversity women of the year award for 30 years public service). Thank you. Unedited article supplied by Annie

Get Under-Sink Sanity

The cupboards beneath the kitchen sink always become a resting place for old and forgotten supplies. Don't even think about holding onto them for a minute longer. First, put newspaper down to protect the floor, then take everything out and place on the newspaper. Relentlessly throw out anything that has less than 1/4 to 1/8 inch left inside or is several years old. Wipe down all surfaces, including the pipes. Hint: Line under-cabinet with heavy-duty aluminum foil, shiny side up, because it reflects light and protects from spills. You can use peel-and-stick tiles, adhesive-backed plastic, or vinyl paper on the bottom of the cabinet.


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Visiting Goa IndiaGinger hotels Goa

Ginger hotels Goa offers a unique experience with its world class facilities. Equipped with as many as 137 superb rooms along with facilities like Gymnasium and a number of other modern facilities, the top quality service of the hotel will make you feel someone special. The hotel will constantly pamper its guests with a number of added facilities so that by staying at this hotel, you get an experience that is unmatched by any other hotels.

Holiday inn Goa

Located on the Mobor Beach, Holiday inn Goa is also one of the most important Goa resorts that offer a service blended with a perfect combination of luxury and comfort. Boasting a traditional grandeur with a colonial touch, the resort offers a huge variety of accommodation facility in the form of Sunset suite, Plaza Garden view, kids-suite and deluxe rooms. The hotel also offers a number of other facilities like conference facilities, spa facilities, weeding facilities along with a superb dining facility. The dining facility of the hotel is equipped with café Mardi Gras, Whispers of the Orient, Sun Downer Bar and the Village which opens during suitable weather conditions.

Hotel Radisson Goa

Radisson Hotel Goa is also a renowned Goa hotel located only 40 minutes way from Dabolim airport. Nestled in Margoa beach, the renowned hotel has a superb accommodation facility. Equipped with 110 beautifully decorated rooms, the hotel also provides variety in accommodation in the form of 4 luxurious suites. Food lovers will also cherish their experience of staying in the hotel as it has a dining facility that offers mouth watering dishes along with a café and a lobby bar. The Blue Lagoon Bar, which is a pool side bar opens at 10:00 am and remains open till late evening

thus giving you enough opportunity to relax. Hence, Radisson Goa is also a great hotel to stay in Goa.

ITC Goa ITC Goa is also one of the most renowned hotels in Goa. The superior architecture, world class accommodation facilities make it a great experience for guests. The highly professional staff makes you feel like home. The hotel also offers a number of facilities that perfectly suit the need of both leisure travelers as well as business travelers. Offering facilities like travel desk, spa, business center and a number of other facilities the hotel is a viable option for different types of travelers. Moreover, the ITC Goa also offers a splendid dining facility with a number of restaurants and bars. These restaurants serve a number of mouth watering cuisines which will make your tour in Goa an even more enjoyable one.

Kenilworth Goa Kenilworth Goa occupies a distinct position in the hotel industry of Goa. Located in the midst of white sands of Utorda Beach, the Kenilworth Goa is a renowned beach resort and spa. The 5 star resort is a great experience for tourists as each of the facilities offered by the resort can match anywhere in the world. Equipped with 107 sea facing rooms and suites, the rooms are designed with a touch of Portuguese heritage. Moreover, the hotel also has a Hollistic spa to add to your pleasure. The dining facility of the hotel also has needs a mention as equipped with multi-cuisine beach front restaurants, lobby bar, pool bars and pool side café, the Kennilworth Beach Resort is also a great experience for food lovers.

Leela Goa

Located in Goa, the Leela Goa is a great hotel offering a great scenic beauty. The 5 star hotel has as a many as 185 rooms with suites and villas. These rooms and suits are well equipped with most of the modern facilities to provide a comfortable stay to the tourists. The hotel Leela Goa also has a state of the art business center which can be used by big corporate companies as a venue for conferences. The spa facilities of the Leela Goa are also superb as they give you experience of optimum pleasure.

Mariott Goa

Located in Miramar, Goa, and Mariott Goa provides the advantage of uninterrupted sea view from each of its room. Located very close to the exotic beach, staying in the hotel is almost same as staying in the lap of the beach. The hotel is very well built with lots of indoor spaces and facilities like meeting rooms and business center. The accommodation facility of the hotel is also great as the rooms are equipped with a number of modern day facilities. Moreover, the presence of an on-site casino makes the hotel well-equipped with recreational facilities as well. Hence, if you are planning to go for holidays to Goa, you can consider Goa Mariott as it will surely be a splendid experience for you.

Park Hyatt Goa The Park Hyatt Goa is a located only 15

minutes drive away from the Dabolim airport. The renowned luxury boutique hotel will be one of your most pleasant experiences. The accommodation facility of the room will be a great experience for the tourists as each of its room are designed to provide you a taste of luxury and comfort. The 24 hour room service will make you feel someone really special. Apart from the rooms service, the meeting and conference facilities offered by the hotel also deserves a lot of praise as they are well equipped with a lot of modern facilities so that a meeting of the top corporate houses can be held here. The dining facilities of the hotel is also superb as the Park Hyatt Goa is equipped with a masala north Indian specialty kitchen, Da Luigi an Italian restaurant, a village café, a pool side bar and a lounge bar named Praia de Luz.

Friday April 27, 2012www.fijitimescanada.com Times Driving40


604-909-4088 Toll Free: 1 866 840 2885

2012 Ford Escape

The 2012 Ford Escape ranks 17 out of 20 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 24 published reviews and test drives of the Ford Escape, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.Reviewers say nearly everything about the 2012 Ford Escape except its interior technology is showing signs of age.The Ford Escape was a go-to family vehicle when Ford introduced it in 2001. Eleven years have passed, and the automotive press says the Escape’s heyday is over. The compact SUV class has grown, and the Escape has been buried alive by all-new and redesigned

models that are more powerful, fuel-efficient and utilitarian.But the 2012 Ford Escape does have two things going for it, reviewers say, and that’s interior technology and a comfortable second row. The Ford Escape has an optional SYNC infotainment system and active park assist, a system that helps the driver parallel park. The second row is comfortable for adults, which is something many compact SUVs can’t boast, but in such a large class, models like the Toyota RAV4 and Chevrolet Equinox are not only more spacious, but have better performance, plenty of cargo space and comparable base

prices.Overall, reviewers say the 2012 Ford Escape is suffocating in a class it once dominated. But they willingly accept its faults because the next-generation 2013 Ford Escape should be a huge improvement over the 2012 model.Other SUVs to ConsiderThe 2012 Ford Escape has some of the highest fuel economy ratings in the class, but the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is less expensive and more fuel-efficient. The Outlander Sport is also our 2011 Best Compact SUV for the Money because it’s affordable up-front and in the long run.Reviewers do criticize the Escape because of its poor handling and underpowered base engine. Test the Mazda CX-7 if you want a crossover that’s both powerful and nimble. It doesn’t cost much more than the Escape, and reviewers say the CX-7 is one of the most fun-to-drive crossovers in the class.Details: Ford EscapeWith a redesign slated for the 2013 model year, the 2012 Ford Escape hasn’t received any significant updates.The Escape is available in three trims: the base XLS, XLT and top-of-the-line Limited. All-wheel drive is optional beginning with the XLT trim. The Ford Escape Hybrid is reviewed separately.

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How To Drive Safely In RainHeavy rain can quickly reduce your visibility and create slippery and hazardous road conditions. And remember, driving safely begins before you've left the curb.

1. Confirm that your windshields and windows are clean, both inside and out, before driving. Clear your interior windows regularly of smoke residue if you're a smoker.2. Check headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals. Make sure the windshield wiper motor is functioning

and that both wiper blades are not worn down or split.3. Turn on your headlights along with your wipers whenever it starts raining.4. Drive slower than the speed limit in bad conditions.5. Keep a greater-than-normal distance from the car ahead of you to compensate for poor braking conditions.6. Pull over when it's raining so hard you can't see the edge of the road or other vehicles. Rest areas, roadside malls and restaurants are the best places to stop until the rain eases.



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DIVERSEcity COMMUNITY RESOURCES SOCIETY

Volunteer Fair

Shabina Jahan-Chaudhary 604 587 5628 ext: 4010 [email protected]

Saturday April 28th 2012 11am to 4pm

Do you have a passion for helping others?

Do you want to get involved in your community?

Do you want to make a difference but don’t know where to start? Come to our Volunteer Recruitment Fair!

Learn about exciting volunteer opportunities that are waiting for you.

DIVERSEcity Community Resources Society has

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City Centre Library

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10350 University Drive

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Friday April 27, 2012www.fijitimescanada.com Places of Worship

HOURS OF OPERATIONMonday 5:30pm–9:00pm Tuesday 7:00pm–9:00pm Sunday 10:00am–12 noon

SANATAN DHARM CULTURAL SOCIETYSHIV MANDIR

5600 DORSET STREET, BURNABY BC PH: 604-254-2624

For Pooja Booking Contact:Aiyaar Shivachariyar Sada Shiva

604.274.7906

SUBRAMANIYA SWAMY TEMPLE OF BC8840 No. 5 Road, Richmond, BC 604.274.7906

Sunday 10am to 3pm Monday 10am to 1pm, 5pm to 8pm Tuesday 10am to 1pm, 5pm to 9pm Wednesday 1pm to 7pm Thursday 10am to 1pm, 5pm to 8pm Friday 10am to 1pm, 5pm to 9pm Saturday 10am to 1pmT

EM

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1pm Sundays(Hindi & English)

COLEBROOK UNITED CHURCH5441 - 125A St, Surrey B.c.Affiliated with Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada

GOOD NEWS ASSEMBLY FOR JESUS

James Kumar 604-581-3191 (res) 604-599-9518 (work) cecil Labon 604-572-4854

SRI VENKATESHWARA MAHA VISHNU TEMPLETemple hoursMonday to Sunday Morning 8:00am–10:00am Evening 6:00pm–8:00pmDaily Aarthi 7:00pmRamayan Katha Friday 6:00pm–10:00pm

pooja/special prayer sessions/Temple/hallPT. Shiu Madri 604.582.4899PUJARI Soma Sundaran 604.363.7180

president: H.C. Gopal 604.290.1114

Then India Sanmarga Ikya Sangam Educational and Cultural Society, BC, Canada (EST. 1982 – Incorporated S176969)

secretary: Ganesh Murti 604.315.3166 Treasurer: Muniappa Naidu 604.576.4529

maathar sangam Activities & VolunteersShakuntala Naidu 604.576.4529

9326 - 116th Street, Delta, BC

ASIAN cHRIST cHURcH OF cANADA

We pray for sickness, demon possessed & family problems.We have testimonies, come and see God’s great work.

Rev. Emmanuel Cheema 778-241-9066 [email protected] 88th Ave. Surrey, B.C. V4N IH5

You are the light of the world, a city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. (Matthew 5: 11)

Sunday Service @ 5.30 p.m. (Hindi, Urdu, Punjabi & English)

GLOBAL FIJIAN ASSEMBLIESPastor Isimeli Lesi Korobasaga

Affiliated with Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada

Phone: 604.592.9001 • Cell: 778.938.2734 • Email: [email protected] - 104th Ave., Surrey, Bc

Every Sunday 2–5Pm @ People’s Full Gospel

abhishek pentecostal assemblyIf 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.

Sunday School/Worship Service: 1pm11601-82nd Ave, Delta BC (604) 590-8836

[email protected] www.abhiskhekassembly.comServices are in Hindi and English

Senior Pastor Rev. Samuel Krishna

Vancouver Sunday Worship Service: 1:45pm 6075 Inverness St 45th Ave

(Pilgrim Baptist Ch Bldg) Contact Pastor Silas Naidu (604) 517-4490

(Registered under the Society Act Of BC. Registered Charity # 891336349) ARYA SAMAJ SOCIETY OF BRITISH COLUMBIA

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 604.222.1444Hall rental also availabale. Contact Kushwakant Singh 604.328.5454

Pushp Kant Singh, President 604.437.7903 Jack Sundar, Secretary 604.541.9359 Kushwaha Kant Singh, Treasurer 604.328.5454

FIJIAN METHODIST UNITED CHURCH 12371 96 Avenue Surrey BCSunday Service @ 6:00PM

Ph: 604.593.5663

Arya Samaj Centre, 6884 Jubilee Ave., Burnaby, B.C.

NAYA JEEWAN cHURcH38868 - 128th Street, Surrey Bc

Service Sundays 2:00pm Bible Study (Hindi & English) Wednesdays 7:30pm

Prayer, counselling & visitations Available

Pastor Eileen Reddy 604.842.2189

HINDI CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP#4-6468 King George Blvd, Surrey BC

Sunday Service @ 2:00PMUplifting Worship | Prayer for healing | music (cD) Available

Shailendra (Shal) Singh604-596-7353 or 604-323-6506 | [email protected]

Hindi Punjabi Fraserview GosPel CHaPel14630-107a avenue surrey bC v3r 1v1

Serving the community since 1972sunday service 10:30 am–12:00 noon

Service in Hindustani & Punjabi • Sunday School for Children Pastor Santosh Raj 604-582-2650 [email protected]

44

Pastor Sakaraia & Rev. Ema Karoi

Fiji Canada Senior Citizen's BranchSeniors Meeting Schedule

For new membership contact:Subhas Chandra 604.433.4298

N.Tejram 604.540.7009

April 29th 2012 1:30PM - 5:00PMMay 13th 2012 1:30PM - 5:00PM

Fiji Canada Hall13629 108th Avenue Surrey BC

FIJI SENIOR’S SOCIETY OF CANADASocial Gatherings at 1pm - Last Sunday of each Monthat SHRI vENKATESHWARA mAHA vISHNU TEmPLE

9326 - 116th Street, Delta, BcBhan mati Raj 604-581-9859 James Kumar 604-599-9518Kapil vilas 604-590-1918 Satya Nand 604-590-5303

Thakur Kuar Singh 604-587-5439Bhan Pratap 604-839-5106

Aum Sarvana Bhava Aum

Certificate of Incorporation No: S-361178840 - No.5 Road. Richmond, B.C. V6Y 2V4

Ph. 604 274 7906

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 2012

Please take notice that the Annual General Meeting of the Subramaniya Swamy Temple of British Columbia will be held at the temple (8840 No. 5 Road, Richmond BC) on Sunday April

th29 , 2012 commencing at 11:30 am.Please note that membership renewal & registration will begin at

11:00 am.

Completed Nomination Forms MUST be received no later than nd1:00 pm, on April 22 , 2012.

SUBRAMANIYA SWAMY TEMPLE OF BRITISH COLUMBIA

Friday April 27, 2012www.fijitimescanada.com TImes sporTs

45

Gillis In Full Defence Mode Of His Fallen Canucks

Vancouver Canucks president and general manager Mike Gillis addressed the media Tuesday after the Presidents' Trophy winners were defeated by the Los

Angeles Kings in the first round.

All elite-level hockey teams as well as its good players go through ups and downs. All good teams sometimes don't matchup well against seemingly inferior opponents. All good teams can't afford to miss a key component like Daniel Sedin for the first three games of a playoff series.This was part of the message delivered by general manager Mike Gillis, less than 48 hours after his Vancouver Canucks were upset by the Los Angeles Kings in five games in the first-round of the Stanley Cup playoffs.Gillis defended his decision to trade Cody Hodgson for Zack Kassian, his head coach Alain Vigneault and the character of his hockey team in his season-ending address. He also believed his team experienced a mental letdown after their emotional 4-3 win in Boston on Jan. 7 against the team that beat the Canucks in the final 10 1/2 months ago."I really felt the game in Boston, for some reason, was such an emotional and challenging game," Gillis said. "It was almost like playing a Stanley Cup final game in the middle of the season and from that point on I don't think our team ever really collectively got their emotions together."Heading into the playoffs we won a lot of games at the end that I thought our team was somewhat indifferent in and met a team in the playoffs that was very well coached. They played hard. They won some games that could have gone either way and suddenly you are down 3-0 in a series and it's very difficult to climb your way out of it."The 53-year-old Gillis didn't sound like a general manager who was considering the drastic move of firing his head coach. But he also didn't guarantee Vigneault would be return for a seventh season behind the Canucks bench.Gillis and Vigneault each have a year remaining on their contracts. The

general manager will first meet with Canucks ownership to review all aspects of the back-to-back Presidents Trophy winners before he begins tweak and tinker his roster."My future will be discussed first," he said. "I am the president of this team and the general manager, it is my responsibility what happens on this team. So before we get to anybody else we are going to discuss my role and how I have done."Then we will move onto every element of the organization, like we do every year. It's not going to change. Everyone will be evaluated on what they have done, how they have performed and we'll make decisions after that."Two of the biggest offseason decisions that face Gillis will be whether to retain Vigneault, and to deal one of his goalies, Roberto Luongo or Cory Schneider. Luongo said that he is willing to waive his no-trade clause if he is asked by the Canucks.Gillis hinted that he's comfortable in having both goalies back next season, but he could use one of them to fetch assets to improve the team, like a wing to play alongside Ryan Kesler or a power-play quarterback.In hindsight, it's easy to pick apart

some of the moves Gillis, who was named NHL GM of year for 2010-11, has made in his four seasons at the helm of the Canucks. His best move was the free-agent signing of Dan Hamhuis. But ... Should he have signed Luongo to a 12-year contract?Should he have given up on shutdown defenceman Willie Mitchell after his concussion? Instead, Gillis acquired Keith Ballard for a price that included speedy Michael Grabner, who has scored 54 goals in the two seasons since he departed Vancouver. Should he have surrendered leadership and a valuable power-play guy in Mikael Samuelsson in his early-season trade for David Booth, who didn't produce down the stretch?Was it wise to give up on Hodgson, even though he was unhappy in Vancouver, to make the trade with Buffalo for Kassian? This, after all, was a trade that has more to do with the Canucks future, and not what the club was capable of this season or next.Hodgson was valuable to the Canucks in a limited role. In fact, in that impressive outcome in Boston, Hodgson scored the game-winner and set up another. Both goals came on

the power play, an area the Canucks struggled in against the Kings."There clearly were issues that were ongoing," Gillis said. "I spent more time on Cody's issues than every other player combined on our team the last three years."We made a determination that he didn't want to be here. We built him into something we could move. There were six young players that I would have traded him for if any of them were ever made available. One was made available at the trade deadline and it was Zack.""I don't regret that trade. I'd do it today"So where does Gillis go from here? He wants to continue to build an offensive-oriented team, even though four teams that have advanced to the second round in the West are defence-first clubs. Gillis would welcome a challenge from two or three of his young prospects with the Canucks AHL affiliate in Chicago at training camp in the fall, but he also would like to add youth, size and strength to his roster.In the meantime, he made it clear that he doesn't believe the Canucks situation is as dire as fallout from the first-round loss has been among reporters and fans. But the loss hurt. It was evident on Gillis' face and in his words."I think we have one of the best organizations in the league based on how we work together," he said."I feel like we're Columbus right now. We got 111 points this year. I believe that all the players on this team are still in their prime. We're continuing to move to get younger to help support these guys. When this window closes, and I don't know who has the crystal ball on that one, we'll be ready to move forward."Sometimes a week and a half costs you. Seriously, I'm extremely disappointed. Everyone in this organization is extremely disappointed. I look forward to the changes we'll make."

Whitecaps Add Forward Caleb Clarke To MLSThe Caps now have the maximum 30 players signed. Clarke is a member of Canada’s U-20s and joined the Caps’ residency program in 2009. He joins Russell Teibert, Bryce Alderson and Brian Sylvestre as homegrown players on the roster.“Caleb is a powerful striker with great finishing abilities,” Caps’ coach Martin Rennie said in a release. “He has been part of the club as a member

of the residency program for over two years and has progressed well from our residency program into our first team. We’re excited to add another young Canadian talent to our MLS squad.”Currently splitting his time with the club’s first team and U-18 residency side in the United States Soccer Development Academy (USSDA), Clarke has scored 20 goals in 19 matches during the 2011-12 USSDA season.

Last summer in the United Soccer Leagues (USL) Premier Development League, Clarke made 16 appearances, scoring three goals and adding three assists. The 6-foot-1, 165-pound striker also made five appearances last season in the MLS reserve league and came off the bench in a reserves game earlier this month in San Jose.“I’m thrilled to have realized my dream of signing a professional contract and delighted to have achieved this with

my hometown club in Whitecaps FC,” Clarke said in a statement. “I look forward to making the next step in my career as a player and I am pleased to be helping Whitecaps FC become a top club in MLS and CONCACAF.”Clarke played his youth soccer with Richmond Selects and played for Team B.C. He also helped Coastal WFC U-16 to a USL Super Y League North American title.


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Silva Vs. Sonnen Ii Moved To Las Vegas For UFC 148The most anticipated rematch of 2012 is coming to Las Vegas.A middleweight championship bout between Anderson Silva (31-4 MMA, 14-0 UFC) and Chael Sonnen (28-10-1 MMA, 7-3 UFC) will serve as the main event of UFC 148 July 7 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. The UFC announced the change Tuesday morning, as Silva vs. Sonnen II was originally slated for UFC 147 June 23 in Rio de Janeiro.“Everything that could go wrong went wrong,” UFC President Dana White, speaking at a press conference in Rio de Janeiro on Tuesday, said of trying to stage the fight in Brazil. “We couldn’t pull it off fast enough.”The UFC had long targeted a Brazilian soccer stadium for the fight. The promotion first hoped to hold Silva vs. Sonnen II in Sao Paulo, before recently announcing it would take place in Rio

at Joao Havelange Stadium.But a scheduled United Nations conference on sustainable development in Rio the same week put a halt in those plans. Brazilian tourism officials didn’t want both events to take place simultaneously, and there weren’t enough hotel rooms to accommodate the demand.“Regardless of where this fight is, I’ll be representing Brazil," Silva said.A scaled-down version of UFC 147 will still commence, with the venue switched to an arena. “The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil” coaches Vitor Belfort (21-9 MMA, 10-5 UFC) and Wanderlei Silva (34-11-1 MMA, 4-6 UFC) will stay on the card, and UFC featherweight champion Jose Aldo may headline.UFC 148 transforms from a decent pay-per-view card held the weekend of a fan expo to the biggest event of the year. Two title fights are expected, as a

bantamweight trilogy meeting between Dominick Cruz (19-1 MMA, 2-0 UFC) and Urijah Faber (26-5 MMA, 2-1 UFC) likely shifts to the co-main event.Several other bouts were previously revealed for UFC 148, including a retirement fight for Tito Ortiz. Forrest Griffin (18-7 MMA, 9-5 UFC) faces Ortiz (16-10-1 MMA, 15-10-1 UFC)

for the third time after the two fighters split two previous meetings.“We will be the biggest sporting event in the history of combat,” Sonnen said. “My plan was to come here, take your money and beat him right here (in Brazil). I’m going to have to wait and stomp him July 7 and that’s exactly what I’m going to do.”


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