issue1 by Diversity Reporter

Chorizo Happiness... Page 6

Fair play... Page 5

Jolie in Pakistan... Page 12

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

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India Fest celebrates culture and food Brendan Kergin

eace and politicians opened the first ever India Fest in Centennial Square. The fest coincided with the 63rd anniversary of India’s independence and was fittingly a scorching hot day. The event opened with the Guru Nanak Walk for World Peace weaving from Discovery at Store St. through Chinatown to the square. While the walk centred around India and it’s citizens, many other peoples participated, promoting Sikhism’s founder Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s message for of peace, equality and humanity. “What you’re doing today is showing the best of Sikhism,” MP Keith Martin congratulated. Continued on page 10.

Government seeks help to crack down on crooked immigration consultants Models took to the scorching stage at the India Fest. Photos by Dan Eastabrook / Diversity Reporter staff

VIRCS Fashion Show brings out Victoria’s diversity Brendan Kergin Diversity Reporter staff

ast year, the Victoria Immigrant and Refugee Center Society held an open house, inviting community members to visit the centre and learn about the work they do. This year, the VIRCS decided on a more upscale event: a fashion show fundraiser held at the Delta Ocean Pointe Resort, with one-hundred percent of the revenue, garnered from ticket sales and a silent auction with items provided by local merchants, going to the organization.

On display were fashions from every continent, showcasing a wide breadth of styles that reflected not only a variety of people but their cultures as well. “All cultures behold beauty differently, therefore beauty will always be multicultural” announced master of ceremonies Patrick Donison at the start of the evening. Continued on page 2.

OTTAWA -- Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) has launched a process to identify a governing body to regulate immigration consultants, as part of a broader strategy to protect vulnerable would-be immigrants from fraud and crack down on crooked immigration consultants. “We’re looking for a regulator who can support Canada’s long-term immigration objectives while working toward maintaining and building confidence in our immigration system,” said Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism. Continued on page 4.

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Fashion Show

September 15, 2010

Continued from page 1. The crowd buzzed with enthusiasm and once the show began, all eyes were fixed on Khadija Guermoudi, the evening’s choreographer, as she performed an interpretive dance of her own creation. Across the stage, her body brought life to that oldest of stories: the beginning of the world. Next came the models, each more lovely than the next. From Margaret Gilstein, 91, modeling a traditional Norwegian number, to a 14-year-old girl wearing a Romanian piece created by her grandmother, there were no restrictions placed on age, size, or shape. “In the theme of promoting the diversity of beauty...all the models in the show are all shapes sizes ages and ethnicities” founder, director and producer of the show Robin Adams said in a radio interview. The models represented a cross section of nationalities as well, with women from Norway, parts of the Middle East, India, and China. Also on hand were groups from Mexico, Ukraine and several African nations. “There are lots of immigrants here [in Victoria], you just don’t see them too much in the media,” says Jennifer Almeida, a VIRCS board member. As a Malaysian, Almeida speaks from experience, having just become a Canadian herself in August. Interspersed throughout the night were dances performed by three different groups. First were the French Polynesians, with a frantic, hip-shaking energy. Next was the Middle Eastern troupe, whose flowing display was slower, and more seductive. Alina Fisher’s sword dance was a special treat, a breath-taking display of physical mastery that could have gone wrong at the slightest misstep but was executed with total precision. The final group of dancers was a four-person group from China presenting a bouncy, charming Happy Days Fan dance. Another highlight of the evening was the performance by Tanzanian model Mariam Nungwana who sang a song co-written by her late sister. The crowd loved the upbeat number and cheered her walk back up the runway. The night was brought to a close with a display of our Canadian heritage. A group representing local First Nations took the stage in styles that integrated modern and traditional elements, and in doing so represented the perfect metaphor for the entire evening: Canada is a nation made of many parts, some old, some new, each one just as vital as beautiful as the next.

VIRCS FASHION SHOW Photos by David Upper / Diversity Reporter

We are Victoria’s multilingual voice.

September 15, 2010

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Events Calendar

To book events or submit your event pictures email us at events@diversityreporter.com Diversity Reporter Connecting communities www.diversityreporter.com Publisher: Frontline Media Editor: Mohsin Abbas editor@diversityreporter.com Contributors: Brennan Storr, Raquel Gallego, Brendan Kergin, Joanna Schaller, Jennifer Patel, Antham Man, Darshan Singh, Waqar Yousaf Butt Photographer: Dan Eastabrook Graphics: Francisco Cumayas David Upper Webmaster: Attila Kovarcsik Advertisements: advertise@diversityreporter.com Marketing Consultant: Carl M. Hohol carl@diversityreporter.com Inquiries: Tel: 250-412-1724 Fax: 250-483-6383 General inquiries: contact@ diversityreporter.com Events: events@diversityreporter.com Classifieds: classifieds@ diversityreporter.com Letter to Editor: letters@ diversityreporter.com Have Your Say: feedback@ diversityreporter.com Contact: British Columbia Frontline Media, P.O. Box 49022 Victoria, BC V8P 5V8, Canada

September is Luminara month! This year the Luminara Lantern Festival is transforming from a one-night event to a series of small scale neighbourhood celebrations during theweek of September 18th to 25th. James Bay, Saturday September 18, dusk to 9pm James Bay, Sunday September 19, 11am to 4pm Fairfield, Wednesday September 22, dusk to 9pmNorth Park, Saturday September 25, dusk to 9pmFor up to date information on workshops and events, please check at your community centre and ICA website. Baby Jars, Umbrelas & Wheels Needed! Luminara needs small jars for holding candles, umbrellas and wagons, golf carts or other wheeled contraptions for our Travelling Light Show. Contact Corey at 250590-2208 if you have any of these items to donate. ICA Immigrant Women’s Group ICA is recruiting now for the new Women’s Group starting on September 29th. The group is open for immigrant, refugee and live-in caregiver women who have come to Canada within the last 5 years, and meet every Wednesday morning, 9:00am - 11:30am, at ICA. To register, please contact Anna Escher at 250-388-4728 ext. 123 or annaescher@icavictoria.org.

ICA Citizenship Classes Would you like help preparing for your citizenship test? The next set of citizenship classes will be held Friday, September 10th and 17th from 1:00 to 3:00 pm. To register, please contact the ICA at 250-388-4728. The Greater Victoria Public Library Book sale September 25 at Nellie McClung Library Diversity Health Fair Saturday, September 25 10 am to 2 pm ICA 930 Balmoral Road (at Quadra), Victoria Swan Lake Nature Society - Seed Day September 26. Cowichan Community EATS Festival celebrates local food and the fall harvest season. A fund raiser to support the Cowichan Green Community’s many food security initiatives. call or e-mail to reserve a vendor stall or register for one of the pie contests. 250-748-8506 http://www.cowichangreencommunity.org/ The 2010 Capital One Just For Laughs Comedy Tour Tuesday 09-Nov-10 Victoria, BC McPherson Playhouse Wednesday 10-Nov-10 Victoria, BC McPherson Playhouse http://hahaha.com/ comedytour

Mount Kailash - Nepal Tuesday September 21st, 7-10pm at 1307 Broad St, Victoria Trek through the eyes of guide Mick Bromley to Mount Kailash in Tibet. Doors open at 6:45 Show starts at 7:00. $5 at the door Learn Persian Nooshin 778-433-8320 nootasa@yahoo.ca

Volunteer Community Writers Wanted If you can write stories in English, Chinese, Punjabi, Tagalog, Spanish, Hindi, Persian, Urdu, Korean, Polish, German and Arabic. Diversity Reporter pages will welcome your stories. Send us your story ideas today at contact@ diversityreporter.com

Restaurant Guide Zap Thai Restaurant 1207 Esquimalt Road, V9A 3P1 (250) 389-1845

India Curry House 506 Fort Street, V8W 1E6 (250) 361-9000

Fan Tan Cafe 549 Fisgard Street, V8W 1R5 (250) 383-1611

Sookjai Thai 893 Fort Street, V8W 1H6 (250) 383-9945

Sabri Indian Cuisine 3480 Tillicum Road, V8Z 4H3 (250) 388-4655

Dragon Gate Unit D - 1609 Fort Street, V8R 1H9 (250) 592-1178

Saskatchewan 62-1755 Hamilton Street, Regina, SK, S4P 2B5

Baan Thai 1117 Blanshard Street, V8W 1Y8 (250) 383-0050‎

Royal Kebab Grille. 2656 Quadra Street, Victoria, (250) 213-6669

Ocean Garden 568 Fisgard Street, V8W 1R4 (250) 360-2818

Foreign Correspondents:

Siam Thai 512 Fort Street, V8W 1E6 (250) 383-9911‎

Santiago`s Cafe 660 Oswego Street, V8V 4W9 (250) 388-7376

Don Mee Seafood Restaurant 538 Fisgard Street, V8W 1R4 (250) 383-1032

King & Thai Restaurant 1109 McKenzie Street, V8V 2W1 (250) 360-1615

Cafe Mexico 1425 Store Street, V8W 3C6 (250) 386-1425

James Bay Fish & Chips 211 Menzies Street, V8V 2G6 (250) 383-5333

Little Thai Place 3613 Shelbourne Street, V8P 4H1 (250) 477-8668

La Fiesta Cafe #5 – 1594 Fairfield Road, V8S 1G1 (250) 595-6622

Purple Garden Buffet #138-1551 Cedar Hill X Road, V8P 2P3 (250) 477-886

My Thai Cafe 1020 Cook Street, V8V 3Z5 (250) 472-7574‎

La Fiesta Cafe 12 – 1001 Douglas Street, V8W 2C5 (250) 383-6622

Mama Rosie’s Philipino Restaurant 10153 Resthaven Drive, Sidney, (250) 656-7671

Sod-Sai Thai 1692 Douglas Street, V8W 2G6 (250) 388-9517‎

Green Leaf Bistro 1684 Douglas Street, V8W 2G6 (250) 590-8302

Korean Gardens 3945 Quadra Street, V8X 1J5 (250) 744-3311‎

Kim’s Vietnamese Restaurant 748 Johnson Street, V8W 1N1 (250) 385-0455

Sura 1696 Douglas Street, V8W 2G6 (250) 385-7872

Side Dish Restaurant. Persian Food. 1008 Langley Victoria, B.C. 250.477.9995

I Kyu Noodles 564 Fisgard Street, V8W 1R4 (280) 388-7828

Al-Sultan 1813 Douglas Street, V8T 4K5 (250) 590-4044

King Sejong 650 Yates Street, V8W 1L3 (250) 382-1289

Beirut Express 787 Fort Street, V8W 1G9 (250) 590-3005

Kuku’s 24 Burnside Road West, V9A 1B3 (778) 430-5858

John’s Noodle Village 823 Bay Street, V8T 1R3 (250) 978-9328

The Spice Jammer 852 Fort Street, V8W 1H8 (250) 480-1055

Golden Chopsticks 627 Fort Street, V8W 1G1 (250) 388-3148

Ontario 1515-A, Matheson Blvd, E. Suite # 216 Mississauga, ON, L4W 2P5

China James Foster India Ajmer A. Wani Philippines Caroline Wong Bangladesh Saleem Samad Dubai Akbar J. Bajwa Pakistan Nadia B. Bukhari Diversity Reporter is a leading multilingual newspaper with content published in more than 10 languages. It is published by Frontline Media every second Wednesday. We encourage newcomers and immigrants to write their stories and share it with the best community on earth. We welcome local event, news stories, features and pictures from community members. Opinions and views expressed are of the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the views of Diversity Reporter.

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Canada Encourages Refugee Sponsors Recent policy changes to pave the way for increased refugee resettlement Ottawa- Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney met with community groups to encourage them to consider sponsoring refugees to come to Canada. “Canada has a long history of helping those most in need,” said Minister Kenney. “I’m encouraging the groups I’ve been meeting with, and others across the country who are interested, to be part of this history in a very personal and direct way.” Groups who sponsor refugees commit to providing financial assistance for one year or until the refugees can support themselves financially, whichever comes first. Assistance includes accommodation, clothing and food. Beyond providing for their physical needs, sponsors also offer emotional support and friendship to the refugees for the duration of the sponsorship period, and often well beyond. Through the Private Sponsorship of Refugees Program, Canada has welcomed more than 200,000 refugees from all over the world, over and above the number of refugees resettled through the Government-Assisted Refugees Program. As part of the Balanced Refugee Reform Act, which was passed into law earlier this summer, the Government of Canada will increase the number of resettled refugees per year by 20 percent. This includes 2,000 more spots in the Private Sponsorship of Refugees Program. In 2008, the latest date for which data are available, Canada was second only to the United States among all industrialized countries for providing protection to refugees from abroad and at home.

Fewer Long-Term Visitors to Need Exams Regulatory changes mean that fewer long-term visitors to Canada will require medical examinations prior to their visit. Ottawa- Most long-term visitors from Mexico, Croatia, the Bahamas and 42 other countries and territories can now enter Canada without a medical exam, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) announced today. In addition, medical exams will no longer be required for agricultural workers from those 45 countries and territories. The medical examination requirement remains in place for all temporary residents who will be working in an occupation in which the protection of public health is essential, including the health sciences and those working with children. This announcement does not affect permanent immigrants or refugees, who will continue to be required to undergo a medical examination before entering Canada. Temporary residents planning to stay longer than six months may also need an exam, depending on CIC’s periodic assessments of the health situation in their countries of origin. Today’s changes follow a regular review of the threeyear average tuberculosis incidence rates of all countries and territories. The cost for medical exams is based on local rates, with fees routinely costing up to $200, while the processing time is generally between 2 weeks and 2 months. Four countries/territories have also been added to the designated country/territory list as a result of this review, including Wallis and Futuna. For the full list of countries and territories affected by the review of the designated country list, please see the Backgrounder. For a list of countries or territories where medical exams are still required, please see the complete designated country/territory list. For more information on medical examination requirements for temporary foreign workers, foreign students and visitors to Canada, please visit CIC’s website.

September 15, 2010

New improvements affecting temporary foreign workers, including live-in caregivers Ottawa— New rules to strengthen Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program were announced today by the Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism. “The government is taking action to protect temporary foreign workers, including live-in caregivers, from potential abuse and exploitation,”said Minister Jason Kenney. “We owe it to them, their employers and all Canadians to ensure that the program is fair and equitable. After all, they are an essential element of Canada’s economic success.” Highlights of the changes, which come into effect on April 1, 2011, include: • a more rigorous assessment of the genuineness of the job offer; • a two-year prohibition from hiring temporary foreign workers for employers who fail to meet their commitments to workers with respect to wages, working conditions and occupation; and • a limit on the length of time a temporary foreign worker may work in Canada before returning home. Employers seeking to hire temporary foreign workers, including live-in caregivers, will now be assessed against past compliance with program requirements before authorization can be granted. Employers found to have violated worker rights may be refused authorization to hire a foreign worker. Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program helps address temporary labour shortages by allowing employers to hire foreign workers when sufficient numbers of Canadian workers are not readily available. Without access to temporary foreign labour, many small businesses would not be able to function and would be forced into insolvency.

Consultants...

Continued from page 1. “On one hand, the successful candidate must show it can effectively investigate the conduct of its members and sanction those who don’t play by the rules,” added Minister Kenney. “On the other hand, it will need to show they understand how vulnerable people using the services of an immigration consultant can be. It will also need to understand the importance of ensuring that consultants respect Canada’s immigration laws.” Improved regulation of immigration consultants is part of a broader strategy announced at the introduction of Bill C-35, the Cracking Down on Crooked Consultants Act, in the House of Commons on June 8. The Bill proposes to strengthen the rules governing those who charge a fee for immigration advice; close immigration system loopholes currently exploited by crooked consultants; and improve the way in which immigration consultants are regulated. The Canadian Society of Immigration Consultants currently regulates immigration consultants across Canada. Interested parties have until December 29, 2010, to deliver their submissions.

Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney

September 15, 2010

Gdzie trawa bardziej zielona. Joanna Schaller

Radosny czas lata: czas krótkich sukienek, spodni czy rękawów a długich słonecznych dni. Dlaczego mamy wiosna tak mało energii? Za mało snu? Za mało uśmiechu? Lato wszystko zmienia. Lato pakuje nam plecak z butelka wody, kremem od słońca, dobra książką i wysyła w zielone w każdą wolną chwilę. Kiedy dostaję SMS od znajomego z Ontario, że wiatr lekko kołysze łódką, że dzień leniwy a niebo bezkresne lub email z Niemiec, że upał nie do wytrzymania wiem, że wszyscy jesteśmy na tej samej letniej fali. Kiedy słonce świeci umawiamy się na długie spacery ze znajomymi, nasze psy są nam za to wdzięczne, postanawiamy dojechać rowerami jeszcze dalej niż zeszłej jesieni, kiedy to złapał nas deszcz, i spędzamy niekończące się popołudnia w zaciszu naszych ogródków z rodziną i przyjaciółmi. Jesteśmy bardziej aktywni i zrelaksowani. Latem odżywają myśli o miejscach czy ludziach dawno niewidzianych. Pojawiają się projekty nowych podroży i zaczynamy marzyć. Wielu z nas takie marzenia zawiodły do Brytyjskiej Kolumbii. Do miejsca gdzie wiele rzeczy jest tak innych niż w naszej ciasnej i zabieganej Europie. Z moja przyjaciółką Czeszka często przypominamy sobie nawzajem w jak pięknym miejscu mieszkamy. Myślę, ze wielu z nas umyka to lub powszednieje. Kiedy przyjechałam to po raz pierwszy zachwyciła mnie przestrzeń i odmienność przyrody. Jak często wcześniej widziałam krążącego nad miastem orla? Lub orla w ogóle? Denerwowały natomiast wszechobecne druty wysokiego napięcia up-

www.diversityreporter.com arcie zajmujące pierwszy plan na każdym zdjęciu. Odnalazlam tutaj wiele rzeczy, które bardzo cenię: uczciwość ludzi, życzliwość i prostolinijność. Cenię w nich ogromnie brak pretensjonalności. Mojej znajomej Szwajcarce zajęło parę wizyt w Victorii żeby zrozumieć, ze nie trzeba kogoś znać aby nawiązać przyjacielska pogawędkę. Tutejsi mieszkańcy mają ( zwykle ) czas i szczerą ochotę aby wymienić parę zdań z nowonapotkaną osobą. Jako byłą mieszkankę dużych miastach Polski i Niemiec wciąż mnie to zaskakuje i cieszy. Wielu z nas znalazło się tu przez przypadek lub wręcz wbrew własnej woli jak mój znajomy, pan Kazimierz, który przybył do Kanady w połowie lat sześćdziesiątych. Przyjechał tu wraz z wrocławskim Teatrem Grotowskiego na gościnne występy. Był to czas absurdalnych okładów w Polsce. Pech chciał, że błahe i niewinne informacje przedostały się w nieodpowiednie ręce, w których mogły stać się narzędziem niszczącym dotychczasową karierę pana Kazimierza. Z dwojga złego wybrał pozostanie tu; sam w obcym miejscu, bez znajomości języka i bez pracy. Początki wspomina jako bardzo trudne; utrata ukochanego teatru, rozłąka z rodziną – samotność. Słaby angielski pozwalał na podjęcie jedynie podstawowych prac: sprzątacza w szpitalu czy spawacza w stoczni. Prace te jednak dały stabilizację materialną co umożliwiło sprowadzenie z Polski rodziny. Podczas jednego z naszych spacerów, wzdłuż wybrzeża przy Dallas Road, wspominał jak po trzech latach pobytu i tęsknoty za tym co stracił, nagle właśnie w tym miejscu, otworzyły mu się oczy. Spojrzał, jakby po raz pierwszy, na granatowy ocean, na ośnieżone Góry Olympic, na bezkresne niebo i zadał sobie pytanie czy to nie jest najpiękniejsze miejsce pod słońcem jakie można sobie wymarzyć na widok z okna własnego domu. I tym sposobem nie dobrobyt materialny, ale właśnie piekno tutejszej natury sprawiło, ze poczuł się zadowolony ze swojej decyzji. Kiedy wczoraj, grubo po północy, siedzieliśmy

z moim synem na trawie koło domu obserwując przez lunetę księżyc w pełni, myślałam o wszystkich podróżujących teraz nad nami. Każdy z nas ma własną historię. Każdy podjął najlepszą z możliwych dla siebie decyzję. Teraz znaleźliśmy się tu. Dla wielu z nas nie jest to cel ani koniec podróży. Myślę jednak, ze jesteśmy w jednym z piękniejszych zakątków naszej Ziemi: z łagodnym klimatem, przyjazną człowiekowi przyrodą, wśród bardzo młodego, nieskażonego wojną i konfliktami politycznymi społeczeństwa. Warto tę piękną chwilę docenić i cieszyć się nią w pełni. Szczególnie latem.

Saanichton Fair 2010

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September 15, 2010

Room for everyone at the Cabin Brennan Storr bstorr@diversityreporter.com I knew I wasn’t going to like Cabin 12 because I’d heard it was “trendy”, “funky”, and “hip”, three words that make the hair on my neck stand up, but I thought I’d give it a try - it only seemed fair. Sometimes you just know that you’re not going to like something. And sometimes you’re wrong. I enjoyed my lunch at Cabin 12 more than any in recent memory and if this is the way that owners Corey & Dan always run their ship then I’ve found my new favorite restaurant. When I first started hearing about Cabin 12 I had no idea where it was. Though it’s been open ten months it was only last week that I stumbled across it tucked away on Pandora street, in the spot once occupied by the Jamaican Jerkhouse. I never had the chance to eat there but with a name like Jerkhouse it’s hard to imagine why they went out of business; maybe when custom dropped off they tried arranging the tables in a circle to improve customer to customer interaction and the new signs started giving people the wrong idea. After that sort of misstep all you can do is mop the floor, turn out the lights and lock the door behind you. As soon as I stepped in the door at I was warmly greeted by Corey Judd - server, part-owner & driving force behind the restaurant. In my reviews I’ve used the phrase “warmly greeted” before but it wasn’t until then I realized what that phrase meant - he seems genuinely pleased to see every customer and even I, who can be the reserved type, felt immediately comfortable. There were only a handful of customers in the place so I had my pick of seats and I snugged up against a far wall, near the bar. My drink order was taken right away and I was brought a stack of reading material to browse if I was so inclined, which I thought was a novel touch. Included was that most engrossing of time wasters - Uncle John’s Bathroom Reader Inside, Cabin 12 is much larger than it appears without but doesn’t at all feel cavernous, instead it encourages you to explore and after my coffee arrived and I placed my order I did just that. There’s an array of locally-created art on the walls, much of it engaging and unlike other coffee shop art around the city it was by and large priced within my reach. Near the door stands an aged record player in a vast cabinet. It’s a holdover from a time when electronics were large enough to double as furniture - myself, I fondly remember my 27-inch television/bookshelf/serving table. Looking at things like this it’s not hard to see why people initially distrusted consumer electronics - it’s not hard to imagine something that big harboring deep, awful secrets and maybe even a few merciless Soviet agents bent on annihilating our freedom. In fact I’d wager that’s behind the entire miniaturization industry - the smaller the technology, the slimmer the likelihood that Ivan is hiding inside, munching on onions and waiting for us to let our guard down. The bar in the center of the restaurant is decorated with posters advertising performances all over Victoria and on a shelf above it sits an impressive collection of LPs for the lo-fi sound system. At a glance I noticed some classic Fleetwood Mac and Black Sabbath - Vol. 4 I think - along with many more and though I normally despise background music in restaurants I’ll give Cabin 12 a pass just because they have great taste. When my meal arrived I returned to my table. The “Coastline Wrap” ($8.95 - yes, you read that right - $8.95) has grilled chicken, spinach, feta, pico de gallo & garlic sauce. Bizarrely, the menu said that it also came with hashbrowns & toast, but I asked for and received fries. The portion was smaller than you’d get at a similar brunch spot, say The Blue Fox, but it comes at a lower price too, so it all makes sense. The spinach was crisp, the garlic sauce wasn’t so thick as to overpower everything else and the feta cheese did all the wonderful things I have come to expect from it. The fries were good too, hot from the fryer & crisp. And get this - you’re automatically brought not only a large squeeze bottle of ketchup but one of hot sauce, too! You don’t have to bugger around with those one-drip-an-hour Frank’s Red Hot bottles and then look like swine when, in frustration,

you unscrew the cap and just pour away. Cabin 12 is the best thing to happen to Victoria’s food scene in a long time, but it needs the support of a community in order to grow. Owners Corey & Dan have grand ambitions for the future of Cabin 12 and their enthusiasm is refreshing and not a little infectious. If they can hold on to that, keep delivering reasonably priced fresh food and build up a clientele without alienating newcomers, an all-too-common mistake for a business to make, then you’ve got the start of something special here, Victoria; something worth bragging about but only if you give it your care and attention. I hope you do. I’ll see you there. Cabin 12, 607 Pandora St, Victoria

Chorizo-Flavoured Happiness Sometimes the smallest things can take you home Raquel Gallego It’s funny how, when someone is away from home, their perspective on happiness can change. Things to which we didn’t before attach any importance, like hearing the music of a well-known artist, seeing a familiar film on the shelf at the video store or even hearing an accent that we recognize, suddenly turn into reasons for joy and longing. Today I went for my weekly shopping trip to Fairways Market, where, for the first time in Victoria, I came across chorizo español. “Spanish Chorizo” is a typical Spanish cured-meat sausage and a particular favourite of mine. I analyzed it, sceptically at first, to make sure it did the name justice. After all, it wouldn’t be the first time I’ve found inferior products posing as the real thing. As the clerk wrapped it up I found myself wondering, “If they’re the real deal, how many will I need to buy per week if I’m going to convince Fairways to keep stocking them?” On my way home I was excited, like a little girl with new shoes, but tried not to get my hopes up too high in case the dominant flavour turned out to be disappointment. Once there, I hurried to open the little package and cut a few slices. Just like that, I found myself transported; the flavour of a simple sausage taking me, for just a moment, back home to my native land. I wonder if this, or something like it, has happened to you. Have you turned a street corner and found a little place selling something unique from your home that you didn’t

expect? Maybe you’ve gone to the market only to find that you and the clerk are from the same faraway town. I hope it has. Happiness comes in many different shapes and sizes; today mine came in chorizo flavour.

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September 15, 2010

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‘Sa totoo lang’ - A Day of Mourning Nori D. Sagun I really aim to submit my columns a few days before the Balita deadline. I am doing so now. On this day, the nation is observing a national day of mourning for the casualties of the grim hostage- taking incident at the Luneta a few days ago. Eight touring Chinese nationals among a busload of Chinese travelers and their Filipino hostage- taker perished in what is now considered the worst incident of its kind in the Philippines yet. Touched halos lahat dito sa aming barangay- para dun sa mga turista, aged two to seventy two. Nagti take time out lang naman lahat para makapagrelax at makakita ng bagubagong tanawin tapos, eto pa ang nangyari sa kanila. Yung isang ale, tulala masyado dahil kasama sa napatay ang kanyang asawa at dalawang anak. May natirang isang anak na lalaki na nasa tourist bus ding iyon at siguro, sya na lang ang pinaglalaanan ng natitirang lakas ng nanay na ito. What was expected to be a fun and happy family overseas tour turned out otherwise for them. While I write this column, my left ear hears the deep apology aired on am radio, of the hostage- taker’s wife to those who were affected by the tragedy. I know that she and the whole family are deeply- saddened too because they also had a casualty- the hostage- taker. The allusion

September 15, 2010 will not matter to them, though, because in their hearts, he remains good husband to the wife and loving father to his children. ‘He must have been so desperate to do this thing,’ says my bayaw, Nick, ex Canadian resident. Nasuklam nga daw kasi itong si Sr. Inspector Rolando Mendoza, isang police officer sa Western Police District sa naging desisyon ng Ombudsman sa isinampang kaso sa kanya related to drugs and extortion. ‘Baka innocent sya of the charges, di kaya,?’ ask naman ng pinsan nyang si Boyet. Oo nga naman,kung iisipin mo, why will he go to that extent if he did not feel that he there was injustice done to him? Out of desperation, natuliro na nga siguro and wanting people to hear his side, naisip nyang magpakulo ng hostage- taking. Question now is- did he intend to take it the way the incident ended? Si Sr. Ins. Mendoza po, kung di nyo naitatanong, ay bemedalled- he was decorated in 1986 as one of the ten outstanding police officers in the whole country lang naman po. He was also recipient of multiple citations of the PNP Medal of Commendation, PNP Badge of Honor, PNP Efficiency Medal, PNP Merit Medal, and the PNP Medalya ng Paglilingkod. O sige po, kayo na ang gumawa ng inyong mga kurukuro. Karaming imbestigasyon daw ang mangyayari- review of Mendoza’s case with the Ombudsman, investigation of the incident- nagkamali ba ang mga pulis sa pagpapaputok and quick assault; OA na naman ba ang media sapagkucover; pati Kongreso nakisawsaw na- meron daw bill to be introduced giving penalties to USIS-mga usisero po. May isa kasing naging casualty outside the bus- isang di napigilang manonood na tumakbo pa din sa tabi ng bus ng mga

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hostages at nasapol ng bala.Sa totoo lang, sakit na yata ng Pinoy ang pag- USI. Tanda ko nung EDSA revolution, dun sa dating Bohol Avenue, kita ko ang mga bata, takbu sa pagkuha ng mga basyo ng bala sa kalye habang patuloy pang may nagpapaputok. Pag nagawi naman kayo sa kahit anong kalye sa MetroManila kapag nagbabakasyon dito, napansin ba nyong biglang sikip ng traffic pag may aksidente- malaking reason dun ay ang paghinto o pagbagal ng andar ng mga sasakyan. Panu ba naman, hayun at full stretch ang leeg ng driver sa pagtingin sa scene of accident- paikut ikot pa ang mga mata, parang minemorize ang mga pangyayari siguro para may maikwento sa mga barkada katapos ang trabahong pagmamaneho. I will not expound on the repercussions of this incident to many people and countries. I know, malaki ang epekto and I guess, karamihan ay magiging negative. For now, mananahimik ako at mananalangin for those who perished and their loved ones left behind who will be the more unfortunate as they will have time to sadly remember the hostage- taking incident at the Luneta. Thank you all! Greetings: I just want to say thanks so much to the ladies and gentlemen of the Releasing Division at the Pag- ibig Fund Office for their kindness to me as I went to do my chore with their office last August. Ms. Art and company, what a good job you all do! Balita News Service

Filipina maid inherits millions from late boss A devoted Filipina maid inherited six million Singapore dollars (more than four million US) from her late employer after more than 20 years of service. “I am the luckiest maid in Singapore, with or without the money,” the 47-year-old single woman -- identified only by the pseudonym “Christine” -- told the Straits Times in an interview. The maid refused to be named in public for fear of possible threats to her life in the impoverished Philippines, where wealthy people have been kidnapped for ransom and some killed by their abductors. The windfall, including cash and a luxury apartment near the Orchard Road shopping belt, came from the estate of her employer Quek Kai Miew, a medical doctor and philanthropist who died last year at 66. The maid had also taken care of the doctor’s late mother, and was told that she would be a beneficiary of her employer’s will when it was drawn up in 2008. “There were no secrets between us. I was not surprised at all when she told me how much I was going to get,” the maid recalled. “Christine” was devastated when Quek died a year ago, as the two were inseparable, and temporarily moved in with the doctor’s nephew for solace. “It was heartbreaking for me as I saw more years with Doctor Quek than with my own mother. I would break down every time I thought about her. I could not be by myself,” she said. “I was always beside her. Wherever she went, I was with her.” The maid, who is now applying for permanent residency in Singapore, said her newfound wealth had not changed her lifestyle. “I do not really think much about the money I got. I just live my life as I did before, and not as a rich person,” the maid, dressed simply in a blouse and slacks with short-cropped hair, was quoted as saying. “I am still who I was before. I cannot behave differently because I have money now. Even my Filipino maid friends here still treat me the same.” Nearly 200,000 foreign maids, mostly from the Philippines and Indonesia, work in affluent Singapore, which has a population of five million. Frontline Photo Press Agency

September 15, 2010

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Good food and friends at 8th annual Philippine Fiesta The annual Philippine Fiesta, was held this year on Sunday, August 8, at the Bayanihan Community Centre, 1709 Blanshard Street. Sponsored by the Victoria FilipinoCanadian Association, the popular fundraiser is now in its eighth year. The crowd enjoyed a wide variety of Philippine favorites like adobo, lumpia shanghai, kare-kare, pork asado, barbecue pork and more. A full lunch, including two main dishes and a side of rice, could be had for $10, with side dishes and desserts available from $1.50 to $5. As always, people came not only for the food but to renew old acquaintances, make new ones and enjoy the entertainment on display.

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India Festival Photos by Dan Eastabrook / Diversity Reporter

September 15, 2010

Continued from page 1. Upon arrival to the square Victoria’s India Canada Cultural Association of Victoria (ICCA) leaders opened the festival and invited local politicians to speak to the community. Familiar faces in the crowd included business leader Gordie Dodd, Mayor Dean Fortin, Minister of Labour Murray Coell, Minister of Healthy Living and Sport Ida Chong, MLA Rob Fleming and MLA Lana Popham. It wasn’t just Canadian politicians who showed up though, as the Consul General of India, Ashok Das, spoke briefly along side the locals. “At a time when diversity is challenged you’ve really come together,” local councillor Lyn Hunter added. This diversity was highlighted by a performance by local Native American dnacers. To bless the land used the three Coast Salish shared a couple of dances. Onlookers were welcomed to their home and given permission for holding the event on traditional land. Booths spread around the square showcased a variety of Indian culture and businesses. Shan-e-Punjab Dance, Performing Arts and Heritage School had a strong presence with a colourful booth attended by both students and teachers. Elsewhere shalls and scarves added a colourful section while traditional foods filled the air with a distinct aroma. Lassi (a popular yogurt drink) helped quench the crowd. Dancers took to the scorching stage as more people wandered into the square. A variety of traditional and Bollywood styles were presented, performed mostly by youth from local troupes. Despite the withering sun, the dancers went bare foot on the black stage. To ease the heat, bottles of water were used, though this caused the ground to become slick. However, they persevered, with a few slippages raising a “bale bale” from the audience. “We is trying to create a venue for our youth for years to come where they can feel that our community is doing good for the mainstream community,” said Sunil Bhatia, president ICCA. “It is my pleasure too teach these children Punjabi Language and East Indian Traditional” said Parminder Virk. To promote multiculturalism she takes her performers to diversity fests and different schools in Victoria, showing India’s vibrant culture to those who wouldn’t be exposed to it elsewhere. Now with the possibility of another annual festival in Victoria it looks like local Indian community is ready to show off it’s colours in the middle of town.

September 15, 2010

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India Festival â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are grateful to have you as part of the community,â&#x20AC;? Dean Fortin, mayor of Victoria.

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Angelina Jolie travels to Pakistan Angelina Jolie has travelled to Pakistan to help the aid relief following the devastating floods in the country. The actress, who is a United Nations Goodwill Ambassador, flew to Islamabad yesterday to begin emergency raising funds for the thousands left homeless by the natural disaster. Angelina and her partner Brad Pitt are also planning to film further appeals to persuade people to donate to the fundraising campaign. “She’s been in tears over the devastation and wants to do whatever she can to help. Brad is just as passionate about it and has spoken about going over too,” a source told British newspaper The Sun. “They may be Hollywood stars but they are genuine humanitarians.” In her role as Goodwill Ambassador for the UN High Commissioner on Refugees, Angelina recently recorded a public video to raise awareness for those affected by the floods. She revealed 20 million Pakistanis were living under the threat of disease and called the flood an “economic and social catastrophe.” Angelina, 35, has already donated £65,000 to the crisis. Last year, the mother-of-six gave £650,000 to help Pakistanis displaced due to fighting Taliban militants.

Antham Man at Paul McCartney show In my life I’ve been to hundreds of concerts and experienced many great moments but few have compared to when I joined in with thousands of screaming fans in Toronto, on August 8 & 9, 2010, as they sang along to “Hey Jude”, led by Macca himself, Sir Paul McCartney. Despite the fact that the Beatles disbanded in 1970, songs like “Hey Jude”, “Let It Be”, “Get Back”, & “Helter Skelter” are as loved today as they were then. After the break-up of the Fab Four, bassist Paul McCartney wasted little time in pressing on with a solo career and in 1971 formed the band Wings, with his then-wife Linda. Over the next decade their hits included “Band on the Run”, “Live and Let Die”, “Let ‘Em In” and “Let Me Roll It”, to name a few, and over the course of a 36-song set at Toronto’s Air Canada Centre, Sir Paul made sure that the capacity crowd heard every one in addition to time-honoured Beatles classics like “Obla-Di, Obla-Da”. It’s hard to ignore the importance of the Beatles in popular culture over the last forty years, or how their popularity continues to endure with people of all ages; entering the venue I met a family who had brought their 10-year-old daughter to see her first concert

and later, sat next to a woman who had first seen the Beatles at Maple Leaf Garden in 1965 as a present from her parents on her 15th birthday. The smiles on both their faces were identical in their joy and it made me realize exactly how special an occasion it was. Sir Paul exhibited all the skill and grace expected from an elder statesman of rock n’ roll; when he read a hand-made sign in the crowd that said, “My Dad drove me 2000 km’s to hug a Beatle”, he invited the woman onstage and obliged her. That kind of human gesture is a rare thing in modern music, where artists are meant to be untouchable icons, and coming as it did from a 68-year-old music legend, it reminded everyone there that we were experiencing something from a different time entirely. Not a better moment in music history, maybe, but a more personal one, and for three hours we were engrossed. That’s right, three hours. Not only did Sir Paul McCartney outplay and outclass other artists a third of his age, he outlasted them too. Look back over his career and you’ll see it’s something he excels at. Feedback at contact@diversityreporter.com

A SARI STATE

Julia Roberts steps out in a colourful wrap

Frontline Photo Press Agency Julia Roberts fell for the sari, bindi and payal (anklets) and happily dressed herself in the traditional Indian attire for a sequence in her latest outing Eat Pray Love, reveals the Pretty Woman’s lesser known Indian co-star Russhita Singh. “I play Tulsi, an Indian girl, in Eat Pray Love that has Julia Roberts in the lead. We shot for a month in India last year. We actually mopped the floor and recited Sanskrit shlokas together. In fact, I was impressed with Julia’s skills to recite the Sanskrit shlokas with utmost precision,” Russhita said in a statement.

“Julia was present for my on-screen wedding. While I was dressed like an Indian bride for the sequence, Julia gladly draped the six yards sari and accessorised herself with traditional Indian bindi and payal. She was familiar with every ritual of the Indian wedding that was being acted out. She was also familiar with the rationale behind the saat pheras and the significance behind wearing bangles,” added the young actress. Directed by Ryan Murphy, Eat Pray Love is based on Pushcart prize-winning author

Elizabeth Gilbert’s spirituality-travel memoirs by the same name, and features Roberts as Gilbert who travels to Italy, India and Indonesia in search of peace. Having released in the US Aug 13, Eat Pray Love is hitting Indian screens in October. It was shot in India at the Ashram Hari Mandir in Pataudi, Haryana, about 40 km from New Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport. Russhita says she enjoyed working on the movie. “I love every bit of the part that I play in the film. I had to work hard because it was an unusual role. Sharing screen space with Julia was an experience in itself. I’m glad the film has shaped up well,” she said. Eat Pray Love also stars Richard Jenkins, Javier Bardem, Billy Crudup, James Franco, Leca Argentero and Viola Davis.

September 15, 2010

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September 15, 2010 Babbu Mann Show in Victoria was a big hit says Sonu Dhami Photos by Diversity Reporter staff

Naughty Baba in town Photos by Diversity Reporter staff

September 15, 2010

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Victoria opens their hearts for Pakistan Waheed Choudhry

s I’m sure you know, Pakistan has been severely affected by unprecedented heavy rains and flooding. Entire towns and villages have been swept away, leading to the displacement of more than 20 million people. Affected areas have already reported more than 1,600 deaths with thousands more injured. The British Columbia Muslim Association (BCMA) is the largest Muslim organization in the province. On Friday, August 6th, all BCMA branches and chapters collected donations for the Pakistan Relief Fund, all of which will be contributed to the relief effort through Islamic Relief Canada. The Muslim community of Victoria, particularly its Pakistani-Canadian members, are desperate to further aid their ailing brothers and sisters and so the CanPak Alliance Society has also begun fundraising efforts on their behalf. The society will be collecting funds on an ongoing basis and has appointed their vice president, Mr. Farhan Ahmed, as coordinator of the campaign. If you would like to contribute, he may be reached either by phone, at 250-880-2240. Compassionate Resource Warehouse will be accepting donations on September 28 Warehouse phone: (250) 381-4483. Pakistan is a nation in crisis. Millions of people are suffering and they need our help to get through what is being called the most devastating flood in modern history. As one individual involved with the relief effort wrote: “This is a devastating, unprecedented time for our brothers & sisters in Pakistan and we must take unprecedented measures to aid them. This is an opportunity to truly learn what it is to help another.” Whatever the method, please give. Whether you contribute through an NGO or a personal connection, we at the Diversity Reporter urge you to help as much as you are able. The future of millions depends upon it.

Yellow Cab Indo-Pak Friendship Cricket Cup Victoria

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September 15, 2010

Darya Ensemble brings the sounds of Persia to Victoria

usic has always been the beautifully crafted wall that helps separate usfrom the anxieties and discomfort of everyday life. The right kind ofmusic, in the right setting, can take us on an almost spiritual journey tonew experiences and understanding. Through elegant improvisations andexquisite compositions, the traditional Persian music of the DaryaEnsemble takes you on justsuch a journey. From its inception, the Darya Ensemble has endeavoured to introducethe music of Persia to those who are unfamiliar with its uniqueharmonies. The current members, Saeed Aghdasi (vocal), Faraidoun Akhavan(violin, kamānche), Douglas Hensley (tar), Iman Bulghani (santur),Arian Aminalroaya (tombak), Babak Mehr (sitar, percussion) and Niel Golden(tabla), mix classical and modern compositions as a way to attractlisteners both old and new. Not only artists but philanthropists as well,much of the profit derived from their performances are donated tonon-governmental organizations and charities such as ICA, food bank andMustard Seed. Performing in different dastgāhs (primary) and avazs (secondary),collectively a 12mode system often compared to the modes used in westernmusic, the Darya Ensemble bring improvisation to every show, ensuring thatno two are alike. Their performance at the Alix Goolden Hall drew a crowdof one-hundred fifty, and was their third at the venue in 5 years. Itfeatured the work of composers Abol-Hassan Saba, Akbar Mohseni, and RezaManba’chi, among others.

International Food Bazaar

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September 15, 2010

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Greek Festival 2010 ESPAÑA TOCA EL CIELO Susanne Hostettler works on a loom during this year’s Greek Fest held at the Greek Orthodox Church and Community Centre. Originally from Switzerland, Hostettler uses her skills to make gifts for friends and family. Photos by Dan Eastabrook/Diversity Reporter

l día 11 de julio de 2010 pasará a la historia como uno de los más importantes para el deporte español. Ese día los 11 jugadores del equipo de fútbol nacional hicieron posible algo que jamás se había logrado antes: ganar la Copa del Mundo. Fue un día lleno de ilusiones y sorpresas atravesando los 8.000km de distancia que separan España de Victoria. La competición celebrada en Sudáfrica, acogió a decenas de países de todo el mundo en una celebración llena de expectativas. Nadie daba a España como favorita. Sin embargo, con una carrera impecable durante toda la competición, el equipo luchó para meterse en la final con una Holanda que jamás había ganado un título, pero llevaba ya tres derrotas en su historia. Durante un partido duro y lleno de tarjetas amarillas, fue finalmente Iniesta el que, a tres minutos del final de la prórroga, marcó el gol definitivo para España. Será recordado como el día en el que los españoles, fanáticos del fútbol por naturaleza, vieron como por primera vez sus esperanzas y sus sueños se cumplían. Como el día en el que la bandera hondeaba en todos los balcones al mismo tiempo, en un país donde el patriotismo se expresa de forma dudosa. Un día en el que las celebraciones duraron semanas, y llegaron hasta todos los puntos del planeta. En Victoria, donde la afición en los pubs era principalmente holandesa, me sorprendió gratamente descubrir cómo la gente compartía mi alegría por las calles del centro. De repente me encontré conduciendo en una fila de coches con las banderas de España en las ventanas, pitando por las calles, y cantando “Olé, olé, olé”. Y para mi sorpresa, la increíble respuesta de la gente que nos veía pasar, aplaudiendo, cantando, y hasta uniéndose a nosotros. Este día pasará a la historia como uno de esos en el que la gente se preguntará durante años: “¿Dónde estabas tú cuando España ganó el mundial?”.

LA FELICIDAD CON SABOR A CHORIZO Stavroula and Nicolas Kanas pose in traditional clothing dating back to the Greek Revolution. They’re visiting this years Greek Fest from their home town of Messolonghi. Photos by Dan Eastabrook/Diversity Reporter

Raquel Gallego. Victoria, BC

s curioso como cuando uno se encuentra fuera de su país, la felicidad cambia de perspectiva. Las cosas que damos por supuestas en nuestro país, aquí se vuelven diferentes. Escuchar la música de un artista conocido, ver una película en el videoclub, o incluso escuchar el acento de otra persona que reconocemos al instante; cosas a las que antes no dábamos importancia, se convierten de repente en motivo de alegría y añoranza. Les voy a contar mi ejemplo. Hoy fui a hacer mi compra de la semana a Fairways, y de repente, sin esperármelo, encuentro por primera vez chorizo español. Así, tal cual, “Spanish chorizo”. Lo analizo un tanto incrédula para asegurarme de que el nombre le hace justicia (al fin y al cabo, no es la primera vez que me encuentro con impostores). Y mientras el dependiente lo envuelve en una de esas bolsitas, me encuentro a mí misma preguntándome cuántos de esos chorizos debería comprar a la semana para que sigan vendiéndolo. De camino a casa procuro no alimentar mis esperanzas, no vaya a ser que luego no sea lo que me esperaba. Una vez allí, y como una niña con zapatos nuevos, me apresuro a abrir el paquetito y cortar un par de trozos. Y así, si más, me encuentro de repente en otro lugar. El sabor de una simple rodaja me transporta a mi tierra durante un segundo. Me pregunto si a ustedes les ha pasado algo similar alguna vez. Si al girar la calle, encontraron un pequeño local donde vendían algo de su país que no esperaban. O al ir a comprar al súper, quizás encontraron que la vendedora es de la misma ciudad de donde usted vino. Me pregunto... es más, espero que alguna vez les haya sucedido, porque la felicidad viene en diferentes formas y tamaños, y la mía hoy vino con sabor a chorizo.

Members of the White Eagle Band perform Polish folk music for the crowd at Greek Fest. Photos by Dan Eastabrook/Diversity Reporter

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September 15, 2010

To help Pakistanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s flood victimâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s go to: www.hopeforpakistan.ca

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September 15, 2010

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September 15, 2010