FIJISUN USA JAN 12

USA

18

Vol-20

Issue-12

Naween takes over Kabul Restaurant

January-2012

www.fijisun-usa.com

510-677-4488

Vidya Balan leads Bollywood's female pack

Christmas celebration by Rehma Church

Page 28

Nands with talented daughter

Kids Page 30

Fiji Interfaith Day

Assemblies of God Church celebrates Christmas in Palo Allto

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(Muslim worker’s namaz got violated due to hot and sizzling scenes) A reliable source told FIJI SUN that the alleged son has been in sexual relation with his own aunt (father’s sister) for several years. This revelation led to a tumultuous domestic conflict between the son ( a Bay Area grocery seller) and his wife. FIJI SUN is told that many Fiji Americans know about the affair and per their religious values they do not Want to do business with him as they consider it a “sin”. A Muslim young man who once worked for this guy reportedly could not do his namaaz when he caught a glimpse of a hot and sizzling scene at the back of his truck. He told his colleagues that the two were busy in the act and didn’t realize he was doing his namaaz close by. Muslims say they cannot trust a “zaani” fornicator. When the father came to know about the affair a few years ago, he kicked his son out of the business and that’s when son relocated to Bay Area. The aunt followed him and made frequent visits to keep the illicit relationship. The guy is held as a GURU by many of his cronies. More facts coming to light soon.

Ten Fiji grandmothers to train in India

Interfaith Page 12 Pastor Henry, editor and Dr. Isikeli to work on Fiji Interfaith Day

» » » » » » » »

Father kicked out son for sleeping with his own aunt

Proud dad Rajend Singh Fiji Police officer with son, daughter and wife celebrating what has been a dream come true for his two children. Both children worked hard to accomplish their degree programs with aim to get high paying- jobs. (See Page 27)

he founder of India’s well known Barefoot College, who has trained more than three million people around the world as solar engineers, teachers, midwives, architects and doctors, is in Fiji. Bunker Roy is in Fiji to select ten grandmothers who will undergo six-months training in Rajasthan, India to become solar engineers. This is a collaborative initiative between UN Women and the Ministry of Social Welfare, Women and Poverty Alleviation to empower the women in Fiji.

Under the arrangement, the trainees selected from villages without any source of electricity from the Northern, Western and Eastern Divisions. After training the women will return and help solar electrify their own villages. Roy is scheduled to travel to the North, then to Viti Levu before he departs the country on Saturday, December 24th.

FIJI SUN IS NOW ON FACEBOOK FOR ALL

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January 2012

YELLOW journalism

M H Koya (PhD) “Yellow journalism, in short, is biased opinion masquerading as objective fact. Moreover, the practice of yellow journalism involves sensationalism, distorted stories, and misleading images for the sole purpose of boosting newspaper sales and exciting public opinion.” When you do not have a tertiary foundation in journalism and if you are not a published writer, you are bound to take to yellow journalism and write the entire untruth and misinform and mislead public. Published does not mean publishing something in your paper. Others must accept your work and publish it in their publications. Like, you saw a few weeks ago my article got published in the famous INDIA WEST. So it is fake, untrue and done for false celebration as we saw a month back. The store that backs the publication by more

Air India hostesses get younger

NEW DELHI: Last week when 36 "flying models" of Kingfisher joined national carrier Air India - long notorious for its virtually senior citizen cabin crew - as air hostesses, the airline started a journey back in time to its glamorous old days. These 36 were among the 670 twenty-somethings who joined as cabin crew, altering after many years the age profile of the aged Maharaja's air hostesses. Now, 1,800 of the airlines 3,500 cabin crew (90% of which are women) are below the age of 37. This ratio is all set to improve further as the management on Friday cleared hiring of 100 more young air hostesses who would join by mid-January.

M H Koya (PhD) Editor-Publisher

FIJI SUN.ORG, PO BOX 56491, HAYWARD, CA 94544

Email: fijisun@gmail.com www.fijisun.org

PHONE : 510-677-4488 FAX : 510-781-4884

STREET PARTIES TAKE OVER FIJI TONWS & CITIES

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than 50% of advertising space – that even America’s top stores like Macy’s and JC Penny don’t do- celebrated the fake news big time. The owner was seen beaming from cheek to cheek as he frantically distributed the alleged magazine. Well guess what?

There’s more celebration on the way as attorneys are critically looking in the libelous and the defamatory issue. The smart editor professes to be a legal expert and is believed to have claimed that he can handle anything and any sort of liability. That’s a mouthful for someone who is ignorant of the ins and outs of the judicial system. Talking of Judicial System, you all should have come to witness last month’s proceeding that got thrown out. It was a great occasion to learn how to conduct your case from an astute former criminal prosecutor who sent many to jail.

IVE music, fire dancers and hula girls will feature in three street parties in the Western Division this evening. As the countdown to the New Year begins, thousands are expected to flock into Sigatoka, Nadi and Lautoka to welcome 2012. "Because people in Nadroga will travel a long distance to be here, our party will begin at 8pm and go through to 6am," said Sigatoka Town Council CEO officer Anand Sami Pillay. "There will be food and soft drinks available to cater for families and guests and a live DJ and fire dancers ." Nadi Street Jam organiser Go Advertising's Charles Wakeham said the Jet Set town's resolution show was one not to be missed.

"The party begins at 2pm today with former Rootsrata man Claude Larry and his band, Reggae Vibration hitting the stage, they will be followed by Soul Transit which features the unique talents of Buli Ratu, Malakia Raoma and drum virtuoso Ponijese Delai," Mr

Wakeham said. He said Seru Serevi and Friends revive the vude from 6.30 to 8.30pm before Freddy and Hanisi Kado showcase the country's leading cover band Divine, from 9pm and welcome in 2012. Lautoka's Rara Rumble starts at 7pm and features a Bollywood show direct from India, fire dancers, hula girls and the unique moves of the Simla Lost

Boys before the Pacific's number one band, Rosiloa, hits the stage to welcome in the New Year. Lautoka special administrator Praveen Bala said the theme for this year's street party was "Togetherness" and he's inviting people from surrounding centres to welcome in 2012 in the Sugar City. "We started the year together, so it is appropriate that we end it together as one," he said.

MOSCOW: A huge fire engulfed a Russian nuclear submarine as it was being repaired Thursday, sending flames and smoke billowing into the sky, but officials said all weapons had been removed and there was no radiation risk. Firefighters launched a massive operation to douse the flames after the blaze broke out on the 11,740-tonne Yekaterinburg while it was docked in the the northern Murmansk region near Russia's border with Norway.

The fire was eventually put out about five hours after it first started in the Roslyakovo dockyard near one of Russia's main naval bases, defence ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov said, quoted by the

Ria Novosti news agency. "In order to prevent a new fire breaking out, the submarine will be lowered into the water before returning to its original position," he added.

The vessel had all its nuclear missiles and conventional rockets removed before entering the dock, Konashenkov had told state television earlier, adding that its two reactors had been switched off well in advance and there was "no threat of a nuclear radiation leak"."The power unit was switched off and is now safe," he told state television.

It is not yet known how the fire started, but a spokesman for the Russian military prosecutor, quoted

by Ria Novosti, said a criminal probe

had been launched into the "reckless destruction or damage of military assets". The fire broke out on wooden scaffolding surrounding the submarine and spread to its outer hull, Northern Fleet navy spokesman Vadim Serga told the Interfax news agency. "There is no threat to the onboard equipment," he added. Eleven fire brigades and a navy fire boat were involved in the salvage operation, but television footage showed huge clouds off smoke billowing from the shipyard even after the flames had been contained. A special helicopter also doused the flames with tonnes of water from above, the Murmansk region's TV-21 channel reported.

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan's supreme court on Friday constituted a three-member judicial commission to investigate an alleged memo that sought US help to rein in the country's army and prevent a coup in May. The order is a major setback to the government that had asked the court to reject a petition seeking a judicial probe into the memo that threatens to implicate president Asif Ali Zardari.

Balochistan HC chief justice would head the panel that would complete the probe in four weeks. The court upheld its earlier order to bar former envoy to US Husain Haqqani from leaving Pakistan without permission. Haqqani was sacked after he was accused of authoring the memo at Zardari's behest.

Huge fire engulfs Russian nuclear submarine

Pakistani actresses Sana (L) dressed as a bride and Haya Ali (R) pose during the shooting of the movie 'Dil Pardesi Ho Gaya' in Amritsar on December 29, 2011.

Blow for Pak govt: SC orders memo probe

BJP blames PM for ‘midnight fraud’

NEW DELHI: BJP squarely blamed the Lokpal fiasco in the Rajya Sabha on PM Manmohan Singh and finance minister Pranab Mukherjee as the party on Friday launched a bitter assault on the government accusing it of perpetrating the biggest fraud at the stroke of midnight.

"If it was freedom at midnight on August 15, 1947, it was 'flee-dom' at midnight yesterday," said leader of opposition in the Rajya Sabha Arun Jaitley, adding that a government that ran away from voting had no political or moral right to stay in power.

"The Prime Minister must now live with one more moral stigma. He won the 2008 vote of confidence through bribery,'' said a statement by the party, as it officially demanded PM's resignation. Countering the government's allegation that BJP rather than Congress is responsible for sabotaging the bill by introducing 187 amendments, BJP leader Sushma Swaraj said that while BJP's position remained the same as it was in LS,

it was government's ally Trinamool Congress that radically changed its stand. The BJP leaders hit out at the government for arguing that it had in concert with other parties tried to thwart the bill. On the plea that the government was ready to pass the bill approved by the Lok Sabha, Jaitley said the BJP and other parties had wanted to turn a soft Lokpal into a strong one. No one had been coerced into disagreeing with the bill. Swaraj said the UPA could have taken several other steps to save the bill but intentionally decided to dump it. "The bill could have been referred to a select committee. They could have also asked for an extension of the session. They also had the third option of simply deferring the debate until the next session but they decided to orchestrate a drama,'' Swaraj said. Swaraj also drew a parallel with epic Mahabharata saying that Singh and Mukherjee, like Dronacharya and Bhisma in the case of Draupadi had remained mute spectators to the chirharan of democracy.

January 2012

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January 2012

BUSINESS NEWS

January 2012

Builder confidence rises in December 2011

(Signs of activities in the building industry when the trucks and bulldozers move, there is hustle and bustle on constructions sites, there are always side effects. Jobs open, new furniture move in and cars are upgraded, escrow companies are in action. In short there is a chain reaction. But when this one single industry is down, everything seems to come to a standstill.)

Builder confidence rose in December according to the National Association of Home Builders. This is the third straight month of improved confidence.

The National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI) indicates this is the highest level the market has seen since May 2010.

"This is the first time that builder confidence has improved for three consecutive months since mid2009, which signifies a legitimate though slowly emerging upward trend," said NAHB Chief Economist David Crowe. "While large inventories of foreclosed properties continue to plague the

most distressed markets and consumer worries about job security and the challenges of selling an existing home remain significant factors, builders are reporting more inquiries and more interest among potential buyers than they have seen in previous months." This rise was calculated by looking at builder perceptions of what singlefamily home sales look like now and where builders think they'll be in the next six months. On the topic of current sales, builder confidence rose two points on the HMI scale.

Expectations for sales over the next six months rose one point.

The largest rise was seen in builders' reports on traffic of prospective buyers, which was up three points to the highest levels since May 2008.

Real estate is a largely local commodity. Regionally, the largest rise in builder confidence for December was seen in the South, which posted a 4-point gain. The West saw a one point gain. The Midwest was unchanged and the Northeast slid down the scale by

Pravin Rogger gets AIM top salesman’s award – Honda of Hayward staff

one point. How does a rise in builder confidence affect today's buyers and sellers? For starters, builders have indicated that buyers are placing more inquiries. Home permits have "spiked" according to CNN. Consumer confidence may be returning on the heels of a drop in the unemployment rate. This renewed confidence fosters growth in buyer and seller communities, hopefully raising the value or homes and offering new jobs. The question is mostly, however, about how the confidence and actions of today's buyers and sellers affects today's builders. Builders have had a tough time since the housing bust several years ago.

Many smaller builders found their market of eager homebuyers shrink as the recession hit and would-be buyers decided to wait out the market or fell on hard times.

Other builders have had difficult times procuring credit for projects.

Discount pricing on distressed properties have caused many builders to sell new homes at cost.

Construction workers lost over a

Happy New Year to all!!

million jobs during the recession, a number that has yet to rebound.

Confidence is still fighting an uphill battle against tightened lending, high unemployment, and a continued debt crisis in the U.S. and in Europe. "While builder confidence remains low, the consistent gains registered over the past several months are an indication that pockets of recovery are slowly starting to emerge in scattered housing markets," said Bob Nielsen, chairman of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and a home builder from Reno, Nev. "However, the difficulties that both builders and buyers continue to experience in accessing credit for new homes are holding back potential sales even in areas where economic conditions are improving." Markets are improving all across the country. Many have seen consistent improvements in home sales, home prices, and employment over the last six months. If this trend continues, builder confidence should return with even more gusto.

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Beware of CLICK BANK on internet business

Do not get sucked in my attractive internet offers to make big money. There are several scammers who will tell you that I have one of the best 24/7 autopilot programs that just generates money.

Typically the sell for $47 couples with ongoing mentoring programs for additional $39 to $197 a month. The all go to some sort of a click bank account which is where they say your commission checks will also ago. If they don’t give a call back number or website and contact information, that’s red flag. Stay away from them. Your credit card or pay pal account transactions will show who bought the program and many times they do not download. Click Bank site has complaint form that you can fill out immediate cancellation and refund. If they make so much money then why should they worry about getting others to make similar money? The truth is by selling these so called autopilot software programs, these scammers make millions.

Just think $47 X 100 a day would give them what, something like $4700 a day X 30 days is $141,000 a month. I am sure pretty soon the FBI will crack down on them and the CLICK BANK as being party to this vicious crime circle.

Retrieved from junk mail!

H, Koya (PhD) Editor/Publisher

Jashan – celebration at National Marketing

Our roving reporter got winds of a grand Jashan – celebration at the National Marketing last month where the co-owner was seen aggressively distributing a magazine with fake news in it about me (Dr. H. KOYA, the Fiji Sun editor/publisher). By the way who the hell are they to inquire into my credentials? First of all they do not know the difference between credentials and tertiary education. This was most disgraceful, out of taste, blatantly illegal, distressing and aimed at causing me emotional and psychological harm putting my professional reputation on line. The whole team from owners, writers, designers and sponsors are part of this dirty plan.

How can they run and hide? Their fingerprints are everywhere. In addition, the store also exhibited a huge poster of the front page cover of the fake news. They think it is all legit and fun that you could get away with back home. Our Muslim readers, relatives and many of my fans are upset. Many of my relatives as well Muslim friends are reconsidering their patronage to the store. When an alleged caller was told she will be subpoenaed to testify, she begged not to be named and asked to be excused.

Is housing market stabilizing?

A Google search of Hayward properties shows, properties are selling as low at $119,000.

That’s not bad if a new buyer with low income wants to get into his own home. Be smart.Do not fall in love with your first property. Have a strategy. Sell it in after a few years at a profit when some equity builds in. Get into the business of investment. Read extensively. Attend some of these FREE Real Estate seminars in your area.

IF YOUR RETAIL STORES ARE SLOW

make it lively by adding on some side items like samosa, tea and chaats to drive in customers and a create cash flow..

Be creative and see what else you can add for customer’s taste, need and convenience. Get rid of the items that just sit and take time to move.

Dr. Isikeli new AIM Fellow This Fiji Police Reunion in Canada got buried in our junk mail.

We finally retrieved it for our Fiji Sun readers.

Better known as Pastor Isikeli, among the Christian Ministries and Assemblies of God Church in US, Isikeli is a former Fiji Police payroll clerical officer. Dr. Isikeli first came to US more than twenty years ago as a student for his theological studies at Global University. After his undergraduate, he moved to Sacramento and taught Biblical studies Trinity College in Sacramento. He then went to complete his masters and doctoral degrees in the-

ology. Dr. Isikeli returned to teach extension classes at the Trinity College in Sacramento. Dr. Isikeli’s ministerial responsibilities and growing Church membership did not allow him a full time engagement as College instructor.

However, he still provides continuing educations to many South Pacific students in the church setting to become Credential Christian Worker where is self improvement to better Christian.

(Above Dr. Isikeli, receives his AIM Fellow Award)

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FIJI NEWS

January 2012

hinese ambassador Huang Yong and Minister for Women and Social Welfare Dr Jiko Luveni at the unveiling of the industrial sewing machines at the Fiji Women's Federation office last week. Picture: SUPLLIED+ Enlarge this image Chinese ambassador Huang Yong and Minister for Women and Social Welfare Dr Jiko Luveni at the unveiling of the industrial sewing machines at the Fiji Women's Federation office last week. Picture: SUPLLIED The challenges of being a single mother is insurmountable, but perhaps the most difficult dilemma is financial constraints, where a woman is left alone to fight the odds of poverty to provide the best care for her child.

Single mothers are one of the groups of women who face segregation as society and traditional values have less to offer them in terms of supporting their livelihood. It becomes a burden for her to carry alone.

In Fiji, the government in its pursuit to empower the disadvantaged has implemented welfare programs namely food voucher and expanded food voucher, along with the provision for bus fare concessions, discounts on taxi fares along with Fiji's first ever ageing policy to reach out to the poor, disabled and elderly in our communities.

The Ministry of Social Welfare, Women and Poverty Alleviation being the line ministry leading the

From welfare to workfare

vision to "Empower the Disadvantaged" and "Poverty Reduction to a Negligible level by 2015" has come up with a new plan, that will foster economic empowerment of single mothers to develop their skills and provide a hope for them to acquire an improved livelihood.

The Minister for Social Welfare, Women and Poverty Alleviation Dr Jiko Luveni revealed that a Sewing Centre will be developed next year to train single mothers currently under social welfare assistance as professional tailors and business women.

In this regard, a total of 20 industrial sewing machines along with other equipment to set up a sewing centre was officially handed over to the ministry by the Ambassador of the People's Republic of China, Mr Huang Yong at the Fiji Women's Federation Office in Suva this week.

Speaking at the function Dr Luveni said the development of the Sewing Centre was part of the ministry's graduation program whereby able bodied recipients under the Ministry's Care and Protection (C&P) program are motivated to transfer from welfare into workfare.

"The single mothers are assisted through Care and Protection allowance only until

Chinese ambassador Huang Yong and Minister for Women and Social Welfare Dr Jiko Luveni at the unveiling of the industrial sewing machines at the Fiji Women's Federation office last week. after the children have reached the age of 18 years and completed education. Single mothers are able bodied and have wealth of skills to be developed. It is for this reason we would like to train and engage them into meaningful employment therein helping them to realise their true economic potentials," Dr Luveni said.

She said while the National Employment Centre (NEC) is training social welfare recipients into suitable work field, the sewing centre would target 60 single mothers to be trained as professional tailors to be absorbed into local garment industries.

"This commercially-driven

centre will be set up at the Fiji National Council for Disabled Persons (FNCDP) facilities where the sewing trainings will be conducted and apart from the single mothers under welfare assistance, women with disability will also have the opportunity to undergo the training courses," she said.

Arrangements, she said has already been made with two of the garment factories namely United Apparel and Halabi's to provide assistance in establishing the sewing centre and employing all the single mothers trained through this centre. "We have requested the government of India to provide us with an expert in sewing.

Partnership of the two garment factories the Solanki and Halabi have been secured for the technical assistance and training of the participants.

"As soon as these ladies acquire the necessary skills, the garment factories will employ them," the Minister for Women said. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), she said would be signed with the Ministry of Health next year to procure the items produced at the sewing centre. "We will sign an agreement with Health Ministry to buy products such as pillows cases, bed linens and other materials utilised in hospitals around Fiji.

"The Ministry of Health will be procuring these items from the sewing centre. The centre will not only train, but provide employment to single mothers and wean them off from the dependency on welfare program," she said.

Mr Huang while handing over the industrial sewing machines said, "We are proud to assist the Fijian government in its efforts to empower women in Fiji, particularly the single mothers.

"As women play an important role in reducing poverty and we are confident of strengthened FijiChina relations to economically empower these important agents of change."

More for Regulate hire purchase sector: Council Vulaca meet

ORGANISERS of the Vulaca Championships are expecting more team to take part in next year's tournament compared to the past years.

Fiji Volleyball Federation media officer Rosa Dalituicama said some new association will make their debut in the tournament next month.

"Around nine association took part in the competition this year and next year we expecting more teams to take part," Dalituicama said.

"Davuilevu is one of those associations who are confirmed for the tournament and they will make their debut at the Vulaca Championships next year," she said.

This time the tournament will be hosted by the Central and Eastern combined Volleyball Association and Dalituicama expects competition to be tougher compared to the past years.

"With increase in number of teams we also expect an increase in the standard of competition." "In the past, Suva was the top team in both the mens and womens competition but that has changed and we have seen some other teams coming up now." "This was evident when Kinoya was crowned the womens champion and Suva has to struggle to win the mens grade."

She said both Kinoya and Suva have some national reps in their squads and will be the teams to look out for during the tournament.

"Kinoya will be looking for another reign by retaining the womens title while the mens team will definitely give Suva a run for their money."

The Vulaca Championship will be held on January 20 and 21 at the Tattersall's Leisure Centre in Suva. Meanwhile, Dalituicama has reminded all associations' that want to be affiliated with the FVF to pay their affiliations early next year. "All associations that want to compete under the FVF must pay their $300 affiliation fees early next year," she said.

The Consumer Council of Fiji is calling on the Commerce Commission to look into the hire purchase sector.

Chief Executive, Premila Kumar told FBC News this is a sector which should be regulated as a large number of people buy goods on hire purchase.

She says the Consumer Credit Act is another area which should be looked at.

Kumar says they are working on a report with recommendations on what changes should be brought in. “We are looking at the consumer

credit act what protection is there for the consumers looking at the practice is the protection what is being proposed in the consumer credit act sufficient or its not sufficient - so if it's not sufficient what changes are required so we looking at this sector in totality and we are compiling a report which will have recommendation as to what changes are require�.

She says they have received complaints that certain companies charge up to 50% interest on credit terms.

The Commerce Commission is expected to comment later.

Expressing his appreciation towards this initiative, Executive Director for Fiji National Council for Disabled Persons, Dr Sitiveni Yanuyanutawa said the sewing centre will provide an opportunity with women with disabilities to work hand in hand with able bodied women.

"We hope this centre will give the disadvantaged women an opportunity to transform themselves into independent and commercial minded business women.

We thank social welfare for leading this initiative which will see an improvement in the livelihoods of single mothers, disabled women and their children. The benefits of this would be felt by the society as a whole," Dr Yanuyanutawa said.

The Permanent Secretary for Social Welfare, Women and Poverty Alleviation and also the Chair for Inter-Agency Working Committee on Elderly (IAWCE) Mr Govind Sami said this is an ideal strategy to promote women into gainful employment.

"There is a standing cabinet decision that says that recipients taken on social welfare should be graduated within five years," Mr Sami said.

The development of this sewing centre will compliment this national mandate and case plans will be developed for single mothers. The Ministry will do its utmost best to ensure that the vision of empowering single mothers to be transferred from welfare into workfare is fulfilled," he added.

Be energy conscious: FEA

The Fiji Electricity Authority is calling on you to be energy conscious this festive season. FEA's hydro stations are running at full capacity right now and Chief Executive Hasmukh Patel expects this will carry on for some months. "We are in the Christmas season which is also the summer for Fiji so the heat is on. Customers are likely to use ore electricity I think the air condiotioners have been switched on and the fans aare running full blast. The demand has gone up, in the last couple of months the demand has increased substantially." Patel says with christmas decorations, there is a further strain on their power generation.

Cama backs sevens test Derelict ships solution

FORMER national sevens rep and coach Tomasi Cama Snr has backed national sevens coaches Alifereti Dere and Etuate Waqa on their decision to compete at the Uprising International 7s tournament next month. On Friday, Waqa officially announced that the Fiji 7s team will feature in the tournament as the final part of the selection process of the 12-member squad.

Cama said the tournament was the best ground for building towards the second leg of the International Rugby Board (IRB) HSBC Sevens World Series.

"It's a good idea from the coaches to participate at the Uprising 7s tournament," he said. "This is the best possible chance for the sevens team to form combinations and strategies and this is the best chance for coaches to pick the right players for the right positions."

He said the tournament would also be a good opportunity for injured players

to prove their worth to the coaches.

"Those players that got injured in the first leg of the IRB series must work very hard to try and get back into the final squad. If they want to be in the final squad they must prove themselves fit. "I know they (national reps) will not be 100 per cent but whoever wants to be in the team must prove themselves as the right person for the white jersey."

Cama said players needed to get the right mentality at this stage of the competition and remain focused on the ultimate goal, winning the 2011/2012 series.

"I appreciate the coaches and the players for their efforts so far but they still have a long way to go.

"The mentality of the players should be strong and they should prepare very well if they want to win the series," he said. The Uprising International 7s tournament will be held on January 20 and 21 at the tfl National Stadium in Suva.

DERELICT vessels in Suva Harbour could become a thing of the past if there are better, relevant laws. This was the word from local company Fiji Fish Limited, which is willing to clean up the harbour provided the vessels are given at no cost to them.

Fiji Fish Limited managing director Graham Southwick said the company had already managed to cut up two of the derelict vessels in the harbour but had not managed more because of complications in obtaining the vessels.

"We have to wait for permission from Ports Fiji to hand over the vessels but currently there are legal issues with the vessels being seized as their owners have to be notified and such," said Mr Southwick. "Only when the derelict boats sink can ports take ownership of them and by that time instead of being a $5000 towing job, they become a $100,000 refloating job and this is not economical," said Mr Southwick.

He also said the boats posed risks shipping in the harbour.

"If you look at some of these vessels, they're blocking access to slipways and docks and we're suggesting they need to be cleared. "If ports gives them to us for free, it will cost them nothing, it will clear the harbour and it will also create jobs," said Mr Southwick. He said the cutting up of the first two vessels had created a total of 25 jobs.

LA AND FIJI IN JUST SEVEN DAYS

FIJI NEWS

THE view from the hotel window is like something from a scene in a movie. I don't even have to squint to make out the infamous white letters that are perched in the nearby hillside 'H O L L Y W O O D'.

After a 13-hour flight from Brisbane to LA it is time to explore the entertainment capital of the world - and time is of the essence.

This quick trip is a bit of a challenge - Los Angeles and Fiji in just seven days.

The rationale is simple, a few days of sight-seeing and partying in LA followed by two days of R&R beside the pool in Fiji before returning to work completely rested.

At first, the idea of fleeting to the US on a short holiday seemed unfeasible but with a strong Australian dollar it's now more attractive than ever and stopping off in Fiji is a great way to break up an otherwise long flight to America.

I'm one of many, time-poor Aussies packing her bags and crossing the Pacific to squeeze as much into a short stay as possible and the US is at the top of the list.

En route from the airport, LA is easy to identify in the distance. For a city that squeezes more than 3.5 million people in, it's no surprise there's a thick plume of smog lurking over it.

And while you can't really see the stars in the sky at night, you can see plenty of stars along Hollywood Boulevard's Walk of Fame - which is the best place to start when exploring the city.

Los Angeles is divided into more than 80 neighbourhoods and districts, and with just three days to taste what Los Angeles can dish up, it's best to dedicate time to Hollywood, Santa Monica, Venice Beach and the more affluent areas of Beverly Hills and Westwood.

Hollywood Boulevard is one of the most popular streets in LA, splitting off Sunset Boulevard in the east and running northwest to Vermont Avenue. Put on some comfortable shoes and hit the pavement on foot as you can pretty much shop, eat and drink yourself up and down the entire Boulevard.

For a city that has based its cul-

tural identity on being the playground for the rich and famous, you can find all of your favourites littered along the sidewalk in the form of stars in the pavement and live street performers who bring the likes of Michael Jackson to life.

Those with a sharp eye can do a bout of celebrity spotting on the street and for a quick film-star fix, the Kodak Theater, which is home to the Academy Awards, is in the heart Hollywood and well worth a tour.

There's myriad entertainment and dining choices along the Boulevard including Eva Longoria's restaurant Beso plus more subdued mid-shop rest stops such as 25 Degrees at the Roosevelt Hotel which has a very basic but appetising menu of burgers, tapas and a fully stocked bar.

The Boulevard comes alive at night and the best way to get that old-school Hollywood experience is to grab a drink at one of the older dive bars. One of Hollywood's old favourites, the Frolic Room is a must-do, even if it's just for one drink.

It's intimate and dark with vintage lights, mirrors, memorabilia, strong yet cheap drinks and a great jukebox. Here the bar staff and charismatic locals treat you like you're a regular and you could rub shoulders with a transvestite and worn-out rock-star wannabe all

within minutes.

The celebrity spotting doesn't stop once you're inside either, as its walls are adorned with the famous artwork of Al Hirschfeld which features everyone from Freud and Einstein to Marilyn Monroe and Humphrey Bogart.

Directly across from the neon light of the Frolic is the new and impressive W Hotel. It's hard not to feel a little important here, in fact the foyer is all class with hanging chandeliers, a palatial spiral staircase and a classy bar which morphs into a popular drinking spot late at night - especially on jazz night.

The W has great views over the Boulevard and boasts a 'rock star' ambiance. The rooms are very chic and you can indulge in a day spa pampering, fine dining, lounge-bar drinking and the ultimate in rooftop pool parties without even stepping out of the hotel.

Traditional tourist haunts and theme parks are generally dismissed by seasoned travellers, but Universal Studios is an exception.

It's just a short train or cab ride from the heart of Hollywood and is a must-do when tripping to LA. Splurge on the VIP ticket to skip queues for the rides and gain backstage access to film and television sets such as Wisteria Lane from Desperate Housewives and the main house set from Parenthood.

Sugarcane trucks a traffic nuisance : Chamber

Sugarcane trucks should operate during the night because they are a traffic nuisance says the Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Industry. President Dr Ram Raju says the government should make it a law to ban sugarcane trucks and heavy laden vehicles during peak hours.

"Certainly we are seeing more cane trucks, the rail way lines are going down so many percent of cane is transported through cane trucks and with the number of traffic increase with other cars and buses etc on our roads it really slows down the traffic certainly this will help improve the flow of traffic.”

Fiji Sugar Corporation Executive Chairman, Abdul Khan says sugarcane trucks are a vital mode of transportation for the sugar industry.

However, he adds, they will improve the railway system. “From my view

the sugarcane trucks are here to stay now whether they stay in the form they are at the moment or whether we improve on it that’s something that we got to work with. Although I sympathise with what the Nadi Chamber of Commerce is saying but at the end of the day it’s trying to find a solution because we still need a delivery system for our cane.”

Hollywood is certainly an eyeopener and everything you'd expect, sans the glamour it once built its reputation on. On the street there's a cacophony of car horns, large neon signage and footpaths frequented by all walks of life, but you can see pretty much what you need to in just a day or so.

Nearby Westwood is a much cleaner and classier area and you simply can't go to LA without going through Beverley Hills and strutting down Rodeo Drive.

To digress from the street and cleanse the soul in a more serene setting, grab a burger and chips and stroll down the iconic Santa Monica pier which is just a 20-minute drive from Westwood.

Santa Monica and Venice Beach warrant a full day of exploration, the water's edge is littered with kitsch stores, cafes and buildings in which to meander and it's a far cry from the hustle and bustle.

It can be a fast and wild ride in the City Of Angles if you want it to be - especially with the nightlife that's on offer and after three days it can feel like you've been there for a month. So, with an extra bag (our dollar is making shopping very affordable) it's to the airport and off to tropical paradise to wind down.

The heat hits you the moment you hit the tarmac in Fiji's capital Nadi - warm, clean air with a scent of frangipani. A smile and the word

Hear in court

“He came from this side and I came from that side” Using his hand gestures a witness attempted to explain the judge, “He came from this side and I came from that side.” Judge remarked, “I do not know what you mean witness, this side or that side.” Instead of saying the alleged person came from left or right or from front or rear, the witness used his country (jungle) type of illustration my his hand gesture that small kids usually do.

Under fierce cross examination, witness said the person came from my behind and not face to face as gestured earlier. He only succeeded in confusing the court.

7

January 2012

'bula' comes with everything in Fiji and I mean everything.

The locals really are the happiest people on the planet and the country was stated as being one of the friendliest in the world according to Lonely Planet.

If you had a week or two to explore Fiji you could island hop until your heart is content, but for a quick and relaxing stay, Denarau is accessible and easy.

The attached island was developed in the seventies and is now a mecca for international travelers.

Starwood Hotels has put its stamp on this island with The Sheraton and The Westin on the waterfront.

The resorts offer varying accommodation but share 17 bars and restaurants, plus six pools between them. All facilities are shared, so if you're staying at the Sheraton you can walk along the water's edge and sip cocktails in the pool at the Westin without blinking an eyelid.

Typical of a tropical island everything in Fiji is on 'Fiji time'.

Forget the neon lights, crazy cab drivers and four-lane traffic, everything here is done in a very casual manner and its hospitality is rich in culture. If you can't relax in Fiji, you can't relax anywhere. It's difficult to tear yourself away from the pool's edge, but the nearby tropical islands are easily accessible and there are a number of day trips that will float you to a tropical island for

a day of snorkelling or diving, complete with a trip to a local village and a traditional Fijian lunch.

The great news is, after two days of rejuvenation and relaxation in Fiji, it's less than a four-hour flight back to Brisbane - a good alternative to a long and direct flight to the States. The sad news is, it's very hard to leave Fiji behind. For a week-long international sojourn, the LA and Fiji combination works a treat, where you can get a fix for the city and pack your party shoes, plus a fix for island living poolside - all in seven days.

Jade Harrison flew to Fiji and Los Angeles courtesy of Air Pacific.

Getting there: Air Pacific flies to Los Angeles via Nadi four times a week.

Stopovers in Nadi are permitted in either direction, visit www.airpacific.com

Staying there:

W Hotel Hollywood is modern, chic and is right on Hollywood Boulevard. Phone 323 798 1300 or visit www.starwoodhotels.com. W Los Angeles-Westwood is perfectly positioned between Rodeo Drive and the beaches of Santa Monica.

Phone 310 443 7812 or visit www.wlosangeles.com Sheraton Fiji Resort at Denarau is Fiji's only five-star complex.

Phone 679 675 0777 or visit www.starwoodhotels.com.

Tugaue will continue until conference votes

Methodist Church of Fiji president Reverend Ame Tugaue will continue as president of the Methodist Church of Fiji until the next Bose ko Viti or Methodist Church Conference.

The church head office has again started talking to the military and Government on the possibility of the lifting of the bans that were imposed on the church.

The church’s assistant general secretary Reverend Tevita Nawadra revealed this in his message during the church’s weekly programme through Radio Fiji on Sunday night.

Rev Nawadra said the church had sought legal advice on the issue after the church’s annual conference was stopped this year.

The conference elects the president and Rev Tugaue’s term is to

expire on December 31.

“We had to seek legal advice on the issue because the constitution says that the Bose ko Viti elects the president,” Rev Nawadra said.

The legal advice we were given was that the president was the only one who could then decide on two options.

Rev Nawadra said Rev Tugaue had informed the Standing Committee and the church head office that he would continue until an election is held.

In the meantime Rev Nawadra said he had started the process of dialogue once again with Government through the Prime Minister’s Permanent Secretary Colonel Pio Tikoduadua and was advised to liase with the Commander Land Force of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, Colonel Mosese Tikoitoga.

Lok Sabha passes Lokpal Bill with amendments; Left, BSP & SP walk out 8

January 2012

NEW DELHI: Lok Sabha on Tuesday night passed the Lokpal Bill with amendments by voice vote with the Left parties, SP and BSP walking out in protest before the voting. This was one of the most hotly debated bills both inside and outside Parliament in recent times.

Meanwhile, in a strong speech pitching for the Lokpal bill, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Tuesday said a final decision on the legislation must rest with parliament and stressed that the CBI should be independent of Lokpal.

Speaking in the Lok Sabha during the debate on the bill tabled last week, the Prime Minister said the bill "lives up to the promise that members of this house collectively made to the people of the country by the way of 'sense of house'".

He also said that it is wrong to dub all bureaucracy and politicians as "corrupt" or "dishonest."

"It (passage of the bill) is a serious business and must eventually be performed by all of us who have been constitutionally assigned.

Others can persuade and their voices heard, but the decision must rest with us," Singh said referring to Anna

Hazare, who is fasting in Mumbai for a strong Lokpal. Hazare is fasting for three days while parliament is debating the Lokpal bill Dec 27-29. On the CBI, the Prime Minister said: "I believe that the CBI should function independently of the Lokpal. I also believe that the CBI should function independently of the government.

But independent does not mean absence of accountability." "We have, therefore, proposed a framework for the appointment of CBI director which involves the prime minister, the chief justice of India or his nominee, and the leader of the opposition in the Lok Sabha and no one should have doubt about the integrity of this process," he added.

He said as far as the issue of the CBI

functioning under Lokpal is concerned, the government believes this could create an executive structure outside parliament, which is accountable to none. Singh remarked that bureaucracy has been "at the receiving end" and all bureaucrats and politicians should not be perceived as corrupt.

"In the course of this debate, bureaucracy has been at the receiving end. I don't think that all public functionaries need to be painted with the same brush just as all politicians should not be presumed to be dishonest or corrupt," he said, receiving thunderous response from MPs. "There are some very special moments in the life of the nation. This is one of them that how collective wisdom of this august house will be reflected in the debate on Lokpal and Lakayuktas," he added.

"The broad provisions of the bill have been debated both in public domain and by political parties. It is my honest belief that the bill which is now before the house lives up to the promise that members of this house collectively made to the people of the country by the way of 'sense of house'," the prime minister added.

NEW DELHI: Hindus in Russia Wednesday won a hard-fought sixmonth battle in a Siberian court against a plea to ban the Bhagavad Gita, among their holiest of religious scriptures, with the judge dismissing the state prosecutors' stand the book be branded "extremist" literature, as first reported by IANS. The court in the Siberian city of Tomsk took up the case for a final hearing Wednesday morning and the judge, after reviewing the petition from the

state prosecutors and the responses from the Hindus, dismissed the plea.

"The court has dismissed the state prosecutors' case during the hearing today," Sadhu Priya Das, a leader of the Russian unit of International Society for Krishna Consciousness (Iskcon), told IANS on the phone from Moscow. The case has been going on in the Tomsk city court since June and Hindus in Russia had pleaded with the Indian government to intervene diplomatically.

NEW DELHI: Congress president Sonia Gandhi Wednesday attacked the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), saying it had showed "its real face" by spiking a move to give constitutional status to the Lokpal.

"The BJP was committed to constitutional status for Lokpal at the (Parliamentary) Standing Committee (meeting)," she told reporters at the Congress office here, speaking first in Hindi and then in English.

Russian court dismisses plea to ban Bhagavad Gita

Sonia blames BJP's 'real face' for debacle

Kashmir freezing, Leh at minus 16

SRINAGAR: Severe cold wave conditions continued unabated Wednesday across the Kashmir Valley and the Ladakh region as night temperatures remained below freezing point with Leh

recording a minimum of minus 16 degrees. "The night temperature was minus 3.4 degrees Celsius in Srinagar," meteorological office director Sonam Lotus told reporters. "It was minus 7 degrees

in south Kashmir's Pahalgam hill station, minus 8.2 degrees in north Kashmir's Gulmarg ski resort, minus 5.2 degrees in Qazigund town, minus 3.5 degrees in Kupwara town and minus 4.6 degrees in Kokernag town," he said. "Leh town in Ladakh region was the coldest at minus 16 degrees while Kargil town had minus 15 degrees," he added. The official said cold wave conditions are likely to continue for another four days.

"Due to polar winds blowing in, the cold wave conditions are likely to continue for another three to four days in the valley and the Ladakh region," he said. Most of the lakes and water bodies in the valley were frozen at the margins in the morning, making boating and rowing difficult for the fishermen and Shikara operators.

INDIA NEWS

Anna retires hurt, govt pads up for cliffhanger

Anna Hazare is offered a glass of juice by a girl as he ends his fast in Mumbai.

NEW DELHI: Anna Hazare's fast ended with a whimper on Wednesday, but the government's Lokpal worries are far from over.

After several bouts of anxiety and hectic backroom negotiations, it is hoping to secure the passage of the Lokpal Bill in the Rajya Sabha today. But several things will first have to go to plan.

The BSP, SP and RJD will have to walk out - as they did from the Lok Sabha on Tuesday. And the UPA will have to keep its flock together. It will be hoping there are Anna Hazare and his organisation no nasty surprises from the India Against Corruption - has Trinamool Congress. made it into the American spy Although Prime Minister agency CIA's World Factbook as a Manmohan Singh expressed hope political pressure group in India, that the Rajya Sabha would clear joining the league of RSS, Bajrang the bill on Thursday, Congress Dal, VHP and the Hurriyat managers were keeping their finConference. 74-year-old Hazare gers crossed as crucial negotiafinds mention under the category tions with SP, BSP and Trinamool "All Parties Hurriyat Conference in continued till late evening. the Kashmir Valley (separatist The government had to put off group); Bajrang Dal (religious its plan to start the debate on the organisation); India Against bill in the RS on Wednesday after Corruption (Anna HAZARE); Jamiat Trinamool threatened to oppose it Ulema-e Hind (religious organisaas long as it contained a provision tion); Rashtriya Swayamsevak that allows the Centre to set up Sangh [Mohan BHAGWAT] (reliLokayuktas in states. Trinamool gious organisation); Vishwa Hindu had protested against the clause in Parishad [Ashok SINGHAL] (relithe Lok Sabha on Tuesday but gious organisation)," says the CIA relented after the government under the named category on the amended the legislation that the India page. The page was last application of the Lokayukta clause updated on December 20. Hazare would be contingent upon "prior has jumped into the Indian political consent"of states. The ally, which scene with his campaign for a has been causing some anxiety to Lokpal bill. the government, revived its opposition on Wednesday after party boss and West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee said the amendment did not address her concern. With the Trinamool side making it clear that they would move an amendment, the government hastily deferred its plan to start the debate in the Rajya Sabha.

Anna Hazare makes into CIA's Factbook

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda (R) and Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh (L) stand beside each other during the Japanese dignitary's arrival at the Presidential Palace in New Delhi.

PAKISTAN NEWS

Pakistan mulls sacking army chief Kayani and ISI boss Pasha: Report

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan government is seriously contemplating the removal of powerful army chief Gen Ashfaq Parvez Kayani and ISI head Lt Gen Ahmed Shuja Pasha against the backdrop of a standoff on a memo alleging an army plot to seize power, according to a media report on Monday. The government's "extreme unhappiness" with Kayani, currently on a three-year extension, and Pasha, who received a one-year extension in service last year, is an "open secret", The News daily quoted its sources as saying.

The two generals have been held responsible for forcing Pakistan to adopt an "extremely harsh stance" towards the US after last month's NATO air strike, the report said.

They also "adopted a diabolically opposing stance to that of the government" on the alleged memo that sought US help to stave off a possible military coup in Pakistan in May. The Memogate scandal could cause "extremely serious problems" for the ruling Pakistan People's Party and some top leaders in their individual capacity if it is properly investigated, the report said. "Saner voices in the inner most circles of the President and the Prime Minister" have advocated "restraint and caution" as recent events, including the serious divergence of opinion on matters of national security, have created the impression that the entire security establishment is "under attack from its own political leadership", the

January 2012

report added.

Commenting on the possible response of the security establishment if the two generals were fired, a source told the daily: "Nobody knows and hopefully nobody will have to find the answer to this troubling question. In fact, were such an action to take place and even if the concerned officers accepted the decision and went home, nobody knows how the institution will react."

The source contended that serious national security issues were at stake and this "consideration can easily outweigh other priorities and restraints, regardless of future judicial or constitutional repercussions of any such forced retaliatory action" by the military.

Pakistan's President Asif Ali Zardari, widower of assassinated former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, prays at her grave to mark her death anniversary at the Bhutto family mausoleum in Garhi Khuda Bakhsh, near Larkana.

porters, who had gathered to mark his slain wife Benazir Bhutto's fourth anniversary at her mausoleum in Southern Sind province's Garhi Khuda Bakhsh village.

This was the president's first public appearance since he returned to the country after a brief hospitalization in Dubai amid tensions with the army over an alleged memo that sought the US help to prevent a coup and clip its powers in May. Zardari appeared confident and healthy, but defiant in his speech.

"I am a constitutional president

Against the backdrop of tensions between Pakistan's civilian government and the powerful military over the memogate scandal, the defence ministry has conceded that it has "no operational control" over the army and ISI, except in simple administrative matters.

The defence ministry stated its position in an affidavit filed in the supreme court. The ministry said it was thus not in a position to confirm or deny the stand taken by the military and ISI in the memo issue.

The ministry further said it was not in a position to submit any reply on behalf of the armed forces and the ISI as their operations were not in its knowledge.

Zardari refuses to bow out, says ‘want to make history’

Pakistani actress Sana (C) pays her respects during a the making of a movie inside the Dargah mausoleum in Rajasansai about 15 Km from Amritsar on.

ISLAMABAD: Embattled Pakistan president Asif Ali Zardari on Tuesday vowed to continue as the country's head of the state despite the "fabricated crisis'' built around him amid rising tensions with the powerful military establishment.

"We want to make history, not headlines. I tell you politics - which we have left to our prime minister and the cabinet - is the art of the possible. But making a nation is the art of the impossible and I believe I am doing the art of the impossible," Zardari told thousands of his sup-

NEW DELHI: In a sensational claim, a former Pakistan army general has said that Osama bin Laden had been kept in a "safe house" of Intelligence Bureau in Abbottabad with "full knowledge" of the then ruler Pervez Musharraf and possibly current army chief Gen Ashfaq Pervez Kayani. Gen Ziauddin Butt, who was appointed as the Pakistan army chief by the then PM Nawaz Sharif but could not take over as Musharraf seized power in coup on the same day on October 12,1999, has reportedly made the claim at a conference in October.

"In spite of denials by Pakistani military, evidence is emerging that elements within the Pakistani military harboured Osama bin Laden

with the knowledge of Musharraf and Kayani," said an article quoting Butt on website of Washingtonbased think tank Jamestown Foundation. According to his knowledge , the former director general of Intelligence Bureau Brigadier (retd) Ijaz Shah, "had kept Osama bin Laden in an Intelligence Bureau safe house in Abbottabad" , Butt has said. The website claimed that "the revelation remained unreported because some intelligence officers had asked journalists to refrain from publishing Butt's remarks.

Asked whether Kayani knew of this, he first told the TV channel "yes, but later reconsidered : [Kayani] may have known - I do not know - he might not have known"

Pakistani cricketer turned politician Imran Khan (2nd R) arrives for a public rally in Karachi on.

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani, in the midst of the memogate scam, said on Sunday his government would complete its full five-year term to 2013. Addressing the 100th meeting of the federal cabinet here on the 135th birth anniversary of Pakistan's founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the prime minister said the parliament would complete its fiveyear term and this will strengthen the democratic institutions, APP

reported.

It's an honour for the present government that it has completed its 45 months and it will complete the five-year term mandated to it by the people of Pakistan, Gilani said.

Pakistan's elected government has been following the principles of Jinnah and is taking all decisions through consultation with the elected representatives, he said.

He also said the government held full respect for all the national

institutions like judiciary, military and parliament including media and emphasised the need that all these institutions should work within their constitutional framework.

The country witnessed heightened tension between the government and the army after Gilani Thursday said: "Nobody can say that he is not under the government." He added that conspiracies were being hatched to "pack up an elected government".

Mush knew of Osama hideout: Pak ex-general

9

Govt will complete 5-year term: Gilani

and (Yousaf Raza) Gilani is a constitutional prime minister," Zardari said amid speculation that his hospitalization was part of the attempts to depose him.

Zardari vowed to fight for democracy constitutionally. "We will not allow anyone to derail the system despite conspiracies being hatched against the elected government.''

Referring to cricketerturnedpolitician Imran Khan, who calls his rising popularity as a political "tsunami ," the president said it was not a "tsunami" , but a "zoo-nami".

No control over army & ISI, admits defence ministry

Imran's 'tsunami' rally bowls over Karachi

KARACHI: Thousands of people , including women and children, on Sunday converged near the mausoleum of Pakistan's founder Mohammad Ali Jinnah for Imran Khan's massive 'tsunami' rally seeking a "change" in the country.

The rally began with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party's leaders addressing the crowd gathered at the Baghe-Quaid , adjacent to the mausoleum of Jinnah.

'Peace in Karachi, a stable and progressive Pakistan' read a giant banner on centre stage.

The rally lit up once Imran Khan entered the venue and went to the main stage. Every time he waved back with a big smile the crowd cheered 'Imran Khan Zindabad' , 'Tehreek-e-Insaaf Zindabad' .

All roads leading to the Quaid-e-Azam park were jammed with vehicles and pedestrians who were eager to reach the place.

Notices to 300,000 Pakistanis who don't pay taxes

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan, which is facing a disappointing economic scenario, is sending notices to 300,000 people who don't pay their taxes. Federal Finance Minister Abdul Hafeez Shaikh has directed the Federal Board of Revenue to ensure that notices to 300,000 people tax defaulters be issued on a priority, reported Associated Press of Pakistan. Shaikh also sought a complete analysis of the

taxpayers' data and a discussion on the strategy to pursue the nontaxpayers.

He also discussed the progress in broadening the tax base. The expected revenue collection during the period January to June 2012 was also reviewed in a meeting.

The annual report of the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has highlighted the country's disappointing economic situation.

10

Changes In FOSTER'S Group

FOSTER'S Group Pacific Limited announced the resignation of director and chairman Stephen Matthews yesterday. Mr Matthews also resigned as chief financial officer of Foster's Group Limited (FGL), the major shareholder of the company. A release from the South Pacific Stock Exchange yesterday stated Mr Matthew's resignation followed the implementation of the scheme of arrangement with SABMiller Beverage Investments Pty Ltd on December 16, under which SABMiller Beverage Investments Pty Ltd, an indirect wholly-owned Australian subsidiary of SABMiller plc (SABMiller), acquired all of the ordinary shares in FGL. "The company appointed Michael Walsh as a director of the company with effect from 21 December 2011," the statement said. The directors have appointed Grant Peck as company chairman. It said that Mr Walsh was appointed as finance director of FGL on December 16 and had worked in a number of finance roles for SABMiller across Eastern Europe, and most recently as finance director in the Czech Republic.

Collision adds to Pacific Highway chaos

A serious crash involved a truck and a car is adding to the Christmas traffic chaos along the Pacific Highway on the mid-north coast of New South Wales.

The B-double truck and car collided about 4:30am (AEDT) near Warrell Creek, south of Macksville.

Four females in the car, including a 14-year-old girl, suffered a range of injuries. Dave Wright from the Transport Management Centre says traffic on the Pacific Highway was heavy even before the crash.

"This is one of the busiest, if not the busiest, time of the year for the Pacific Highway on the mid-north coast," Mr Wright said.

"Certainly yesterday we saw queues of around five to six kilometres at Kempsey, at Macksville, up towards Coffs Harbour, and to have a major accident on the highway like this, on a day like this, is really going to have a big impact on a lot of holiday makers.

American Airlines Expands Its Global Network Through Several Strategic Alliance Agreements in 2011

PACIFIC NEWS

January 2012

FORT WORTH, Texas.

American Airlines grew its global network throughout 2011, adding more than 30 new destinations through strategic relationships with leading airlines around the globe. By focusing on intensifying codeshare relationships and loyalty program partnerships, including the ability for customers to enjoy reciprocal benefits when traveling to more than 1,050 new destinations, American now offers more travel choices and greater benefits to customers traveling worldwide on its partner airlines.

Earlier this year, American signed its joint business with Japan Airlines, further strengthening American's presence in Asia. Additional alliance agreements were announced as the year progressed, including formal government approval of its joint business with Qantas last fall broadening American's connectivity throughout North America, China, Europe, the Middle East, South America and the South Pacific, providing greater benefits for customers around the globe.

American partners with various airlines around the world in the following ways: The oneworld alliance continues to grow with members elect airberlin, Kingfisher Airlines and Malaysia Airlines. These addi-

tional airlines offer customers the oneworld experience to more cities than ever throughout Europe, India and Southeast Asia.

American's four joint business partners, British Airways/Iberia Airlines, Japan Airlines and Qantas, provide customers more flight options, better connectivity and more competitive fare options.

As a result of the transAtlantic agreement, customers can earn and redeem AAdvantage® miles on all British Airways routes and can earn 100 percent of base miles flown on any British Airways flight or any Iberia flight between the U.S., Puerto Rico, Mexico and Spain.

Because of the transAtlantic and trans-Pacific agreements, customers can now book travel in the Premium Economy cabin on flights to London with British Airways and flights to Tokyo with Japan Airlines.

Codeshare Agreements Codeshare agreements with nearly 30 airlines provide customers more flight options and better connectivity to more destinations globally, including more flights between key business markets like Chicago Hong Kong with oneworld partner, Cathay Pacific, and Dallas/Fort Worth-Sydney with oneworld partner, Qantas. As another added benefit,

Stocks Rise, Erasing S&P 500’s Decline for 2011; Treasuries Drop

U.S. stocks rose, erasing the 2011 decline for the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index, amid further signs of strength in the world’s largest economy. Treasuries declined while commodities advanced.

The S&P 500 added 0.9 percent to 1,265.33 at 4 p.m.

New York time. The Dow Jones Industrial Average jumped 1 percent to 12,294, the highest level since July 27. The MSCI All-Country World Index advanced 0.8 percent, rising for a fourth straight day. Copper rallied 1.6 percent and crude oil briefly topped $100 a barrel.

Yields on 30-year Treasuries climbed eight basis points and increased the most in a week since October.

Orders for U.S. durable goods jumped in November by the most in four months, data showed today, helping to offset weaker-than-forecast consumer spending.

Sales of new U.S. homes rose in November to a seven-month high. The U.S. Congress passed a twomonth payroll tax cut extension a day after House Republicans surrendered on whether to endorse the measure days before its sched-

uled Dec. 31 expiration.

“The market’s holding up,” Paul Zemsky, the New Yorkbased head of asset allocation for ING Investment Management, said in a telephone interview. His firm oversees $550 billion. “It’s important to take it all with the totality of the week, we had fantastic data on housing and jobs earlier this week, so overall, this data is weak, but the jobless claims trumps it because it’s more forwardlooking.”

ERASING 2011 DROP

A four-day rally in the S&P 500 erased the index’s decline for the year, giving it a 0.6 percent gain for 2011.

The gauge jumped 3.7 percent this week after data on employment, consumer confidence, housing starts and leading economic indicators added to expectations that the U.S. economy can weather Europe’s debt crisis.

Wall Street strategists forecast the S&P 500 will end the year at 1,278, or 1 percent higher than today’s close.

With four trading days left in 2011, the benchmark index for U.S. equities would need to climb about 0.2 percent each day to reach their pro-

jection. On average, the S&P 500 gains 1 percent in the last four days of the year, according to data dating back to 1928 compiled by Bloomberg.

All 10 industries in the S&P 500 advanced at least 0.6 percent today, led by consumer-discretionary stocks, technology and raw materials companies.

Verizon Communications Inc. advanced 1.8 percent.

Walt Disney Co. and Bank of America Corp. rose at least 2 percent, pacing gains among the largest companies. U.S. markets will be closed Dec. 26 for the Christmas holiday.

DURABLE GOODS

U.S. stocks rose as orders for goods meant to last at least three months rose 3.8 percent in November, as an increase in demand for aircraft outweighed declines in spending on computers and equipment. A separate report showed purchases of singlefamily properties increased 1.6 percent to a 315,000 annual pace, adding to evidence of stability in the housing market.

Consumer spending rose less than forecast in November as wages

declined for the first time in three months.

Equities maintained gains after Congress extended a two- percentage-point payroll tax cut, following a month of wrangling among lawmakers. The measure will continue expanded unemployment benefits and head off a reduction in Medicare payments to doctors through February. Lawmakers plan to negotiate on a longer-term extension in the new year.

“That removes probably the biggest domestic threat to the economy in 2012,” David Kelly, who helps oversee $394 billion as chief market strategist for JPMorgan Funds in New York, said in a telephone interview. “As the year ends, some of the extremes in uncertainty are diminishing, and that should allow the market to go up.”

EUROPEAN STOCKS

The Stoxx Europe 600 Index rose 0.9 percent, taking its weekly advance to 3.5 percent. Wavin NV jumped 22 percent as Mexichem SAB, a Latin American chemical maker, raised its takeover bid for the Dutch manufacturer to 10 euros a share.

AAdvantage members can earn miles on all flights coded with an American flight number as well as select flights with the code of other airlines.

Some key codeshare destinations added this year include: Select cities in Canada through the agreement with WestJet Airlines Fiji, located in the South Pacific through the agreement with Air Pacific Additional cities in China through the agreement, awaiting government approval, with Hainan Airlines Paris Orly through the new codeshare agreement with OpenSkies, a premium subsidiary of British Airways offering an all premium service between Newark and Paris Frequent Flyer Agreements American has frequent flyer agreements with more than 25 airlines allowing customers to earn and redeem miles when traveling to hundreds of destinations around the globe.

Elite recognition benefits are now available to AAdvantage elite members when flying on Alaska Airlines.

With the recent added strength of oneworld, after gaining antitrust immunity across the Atlantic and Pacific in 2010, American is in excellent position to leverage its assets for domestic and international business.

The oneworld alliance has the most

premium seats in the four largest premium travel airports in the world (London Heathrow, New York JFK, Los Angeles, and Hong Kong), and American and its partners have uniquely positioned hubs at five of the top eight largest premium travel markets (New York JFK, London Heathrow, Los Angeles, Tokyo Narita, and Hong Kong).

"By strengthening and broadening our presence worldwide, American and oneworld are better positioned than ever to deliver enhanced benefits to our customers," said Kenji Hashimoto, American's Vice President Strategic Alliances. "American will continue to build upon its success with alliance partners to deliver the premier alliance network worldwide."

American strengthened its network in 2011 through its cornerstone strategy by reallocating capacity to hubs in Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Miami, New York and Los Angeles. These five cities serve as the cornerstones of American's U.S. network and improve the ability to connect passengers globally via its own flights and those of alliance partners.

American plans to strengthen its alliances in 2012 to continue to deliver unparalled benefits to customers across the globe.

Australia offers to reopen South Pacific asylum centers

SYDNEY (Reuters) - The Australian government is prepared to reopen South Pacific asylum seeker detention camps to process boatpeople arriving from Indonesia in return for the country's opposition backing a plan for a regional asylum processing center in Malaysia. The offer to reopen centers in Nauru, a tiny island 4,000 km (2,500 miles) northeast of Australia, or Papua New Guinea is a major compromise by the Labor government. The centers were established under the previous conservative government and closed by Labor. The minority Labor government needs conservative backing in parliament to pass its plan for a Malaysian center, which has already been defeated once in the parliament.

"We need the Malaysia agreement because you need that disincentive. We need Malaysia plus we need one other," Immigration Minister Chris Bowen said on Friday "Nauru by itself would be an expensive white

elephant, but Nauru with an agreement with Malaysia would be an effective part of a regional solution."

Asylum seekers are a long-running political flashpoint in Australia, despite it receiving just under 0.5 percent of the world's refugee hopefuls, according to the United Nations. Voters link boatpeople arrivals with border security, an issue which has decided past elections.

Elections are not due until mid-2013, but the government trails so badly in opinion polls it would be thrown from office if an election was held. The sinking of an Indonesia boat last Saturday which resulted in hundreds of asylum seekers drowning, mainly Afghan and Iraqi, has renewed the boatpeople debate in Australia.

But despite the government's offer, a bipartisan deal on boatpeople is unlikely in talks later Friday, with the opposition continuing to oppose the Malaysian plan and imposing other conditions unlikely to be agreed to by the government.

'Happy gene'

HEALTH

S

cientists have found that some people are born optimists because they have inherited a "happy gene".

The finding may help to explain why some people are always miserable while others tend to look on the bright side, the Daily Mail reported.

Professor Elaine Fox at Essex University showed more than 100 people positive and negative pictures on a computer screen, such as growling dogs and smiling children.

Volunteers supplied a sample of their DNA and they were tested to see which version they carried of the 5-HTTLPR gene, which affects levels of the "feelgood" chemical serotonin. We inherit either two 'short' versions, a long and a short version or two 'long' versions of the gene. Those with two short versions of the gene managed to

inheritors are optimists

DIETING

is harder than we THINK S

cientists have debunked decades-old theories on losing weight and developed a more sophisticated measure of weight loss, which takes account of metabolic changes and of differences between fat and thin people.

For decades, doctors have based their advice to those who want to lose weight on the assumption that cutting 500 calories a day will see the weight fall off at the rate of 1lb a week.

"This is wrong," Kevin Hill, of the National Institutes of Health in the United States, said. "It does not happen."

The error has arisen because the calculation did not take account of changes in

The result is that forgoing that daily chocolate bar containing 250 calories will lead to about 25lb of weight loss if it is sustained for three years, much less than the 78lb predicted by the old dieting assumption.

metabolism as weight falls.

The body adjusts to reductions in energy intake (calories eaten) by slowing its energy output (calories expended).

The result is that forgoing that daily chocolate bar containing 250 calories will lead to about 25lb of weight loss if it is sustained for three years, much less than the 78lb predicted by the old dieting assumption.

The new study has shown that heavier people tend to lose weight faster than lighter people on the same diet, though they will take longer to reach the target weight than those who weigh less to begin with.

Most people on a diet achieve their maximum weight loss after six to eight months and it has been assumed this is a natural "plateauing" effect, resulting from slowed metabolism.

But evidence shows that people find it hard to stick to a diet for longer than six months and that is why they stop losing weight. Body-weight plateauing occurs much later, after two to three years. There is nothing to choose between different diets that alter the fat, protein and carbohydrate balance, such as the Atkins diet that reduces carbohydrates, the researchers say. The body adapts rapidly to changes in these constituents with the result that all diets result in the same loss of body fat, at least in the short term. "Widepread past use of erroneous rules for estimation of human bodyweight change have led to unrealistic expectations," the authors said.

R

esearchers at UCLA's Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Centre have found that curcumin, the main component in the spice turmeric, suppresses a cell-signalling pathway in human saliva that drives the growth of head and neck cancer. The inhibition of the cell signalling pathway was also correlated with reduced expression of a number of pro-inflammatory cytokines, or signalling molecules, in the saliva that promote cancer growth, said Dr. Marilene Wang, senior author of the study and a Jonsson Cancer Centre researcher. "This study shows that curcumin can work in the mouths of patients with head

Top 5

superfoods for instant

Energy

Bananas also contain fibre, which will help sustain the glucose levels in your blood, thus giving you a steady source of energy over a longer period of time.

January 2012

focus on the positive images and avoid getting upset by the negative ones, according to the research. Strangely this 'short' version of the gene is the same one that has been associated with making people feel anxious and depressed and it suggests these people have a 'very emotional' response

Volunteers supplied a sample of their DNA and they were tested to see which version they carried of the 5-HTTLPR gene, which affects levels of the "feel-good" chemical serotonin. We inherit either two 'short' versions, a long and a short version or two 'long' versions of the gene.

TURMERIC

a natural born cancer killer

to their environment. "When times are really good, it is those with the highly reactive short genotype who really benefit," said Professor Fox. "They were very response to positive images which suggests they will thrive in a supportive environment, but previous research shows they can also go under, and will be particularly devastated by a traumatic experience.

It suggests these people are very susceptible to emotional aspects of their environment.

Those with the long version are less reactive which means that they often fare best in fairly benign conditions but they perhaps would not gain as much from a good experience," he added. The researchers described the finding as a mechanism that seems to explain our levels of resilience to life's general stress.

and neck malignancies and reduce activities that promote cancer growth," Wang said. "And it not only affected the cancer by inhibiting a critical cell signalling pathway, it also affected the saliva itself by reducing proinflammatory cytokines within the saliva," she added.

The study was published September 15 in Clinical Cancer Research, a peerreviewed journal of the American Association of Cancer Research .

1 3 4 2 5

Ginseng tea

"THIS STUDY SHOWS THAT CURCUMIN CAN WORK IN THE MOUTHS OF PATIENTS WITH HEAD AND NECK MALIGNANCIES AND REDUCE ACTIVITIES THAT PROMOTE CANCER GROWTH," WANG SAID.

Known for centuries as an antioxidant cure-all, ginseng is also a stimulant which provides increased energy and concentration. It's difficult to find dried ginseng, never mind fresh, so we recommend getting your fill of this ancient root through a cup of ginseng tea. Its warmth will have a calming effect on your nerves while simultaneously giving you the energy to power through any late-night task.

Bananas

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Boasting three naturally-occurring sugars - sucrose, fructose, and glucose bananas are an obvious choice for a quick energy boost. But don't let all that sugar fool you into thinking the fix is only temporary. Bananas also contain fibre, which will help sustain the glucose levels in your blood, thus giving you a steady source of energy over a longer period of time.

Aged cheese

Unlike their soft, younger counterparts, aged cheeses contain high levels of the amino acid tyramine - known for its ability to encourage the secretion of stimulant hormones in the body. So, the next time you need a boost, try a piece of Parmesan, Stilton, or any other hard cheese. Beware of eating them in excess, though.

Strawberries

Strawberries are a great, low-cal addition to a healthy lifestyle, packing enough vitamin C, manganese, and fibre for a 'berry' nutritional punch. One serving of strawberries - about eight medium strawberries - is high in fibre and an excellent source of vitamin C. The star player in strawberries is vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps repair the body's tissues, boosts immunity, and fights excess free radical damage.

Wheatgrass

Wheatgrass is chock full of nutrients. In fact, it contains 25 times the nutrients of vegetables. Many people drink shots of wheatgrass juice as a general health booster. Wheatgrass juice which contains chlorophyll, minerals, and vitamins A, B-complex, C, E, and K, protein and 17 amino acids is easily absorbed in human blood.

God’s love 12

INTERFAITH

January 2012

By Pastor Henry Latchman of Rhema Bible Church, Hayward, CA Some years back I had an encounter with a person who said that if anyone can solve the world’s problem that person will be regarded as the greatest person on this earth. I thought about the question and started to think in my mind if any such person ever existed. Other questions such as, where does all the wars and fights come from? Why do people become sick and die? To have peace in my heart I would say to myself that eventually everybody will have to die one day. But the questions of life still bothered my mind. Is there a way

I

Travels of Jesus son of Mary rouse great interest n the recent years several Indian writers including the Indian government have taken a very keen interest in the travels of Jesus.

Almost all have identified Jesus having travelled to Kashmir where many reports say he married, live a long life and eventually died and got buried there. The reason for Jesus’s travel to the East after the event of crucifixion is believed to be rooted in his mission:“ I have not been sent but unto the Lost sheep of the House of Israel”.

(To be continued in next issue)

Gading Mosque member in sex affair

HAYWARD- Fiji Sun is extremely concerned to have received complaints about an alleged sex affair between a member and a staff that has led to jitters and bickering in the Fiji Muslim community. Officials are believed be under pressure to suspend the member and dismiss the staff. They are downplaying the alleged affairs to save embarrassment and a possible backlash that could lead to membership decline.

In the meantime, the Gading Mosque under construction has made significant progress towards completion. Fiji Sun is probing the matter to bring facts to light.

out? Who can bring world peace?

People have tried and are still doing their best to solve mankind’s problems.

Unfortunately no solid and lasting peace has s ever been created yet. I started to search for answers to some of the questions of life I had asked myself. After reading and studying books and other articles on the subject I found out that I was exhausted and I couldn’t find any person ever who offered any lasting solution to our problems. Sometime later, I met a person who was very humble and a Godly person. He excited me with his answers to my questions. Before he left he handed me a bible and said that all of answers to life’s questions are in that book. I spent a lot of time studying the book and finding all the answers I had in my mind.

The book ofGenesis 1:1says “In the beginning God created the

heavens and the earth”.

Colossians 1:6says “For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth.”

Psalm 115:15, 16 “May you be blessed by the lord who made heaven and earth. The heaven, even the heavens are the Lord’s: but the earth He has given to the children of men” The earth was perfect when God gave it to man.

Disobedience led man to flee from the presence of God. Sin entered the human race when the first man Adam sinned and as a result sin spread to the entire world.

With it came spiritual death, disease, sickness poverty and physical death. All of the world’s problem s started with sin. That’s why there is no lasting peace in the world and in the hearts of man.

Everyone wants to have his/her own way. But there is good news

for mankind. Someone can solve our problems and at the same time give us peace in our lives. In fact He is able to do more than what we ask Him. Jesus Christ the last Adam came to give life to all people on this earth. He was sinless and a perfect person.

Look at His promise.

Matthew 11:28 “come to me all you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest”.

Jesus wants to give us peace and solve our problems. He will help us if we give him a chance.

How do we do that? Answer – by believing in Him. Believe that he has died for your sins and rose from the dead on the third day. Repent of your sins and acknowledge Jesus Christ as your savior. Than invite Him in your heart and follow his words. May God bless you as you start year 2012 with Jesus as the captain of your life?

FIJI INTERFAITH DAY Fiji American Community’s three interfaith leaders join to host first Fiji Interfaith Day. (DTBA)

Your Question answered

Q. Can you do the Hajj on behalf or another Muslim?

A. Straight answer is no. Just like no one can pray for you, pay Zakat for you or fast for you, no can substitute you or fill in for and perform Hajj for you.

Hajj is contingentyour financial ability, and must not be in debt.

Additionally, if war and other disasters prevent you from travel the long distance then Hajj is not obligatory on you.

Dr. Isikeli

(Pastor of Assemblies of God)

Pastor Henry Latchman (Chief Pastor Rhema Church, Hayward)

Dr. H. Koya

(Director Interfaith America)

January 2012

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Vidya Balan leads

January 2012

WOMEN-CENTRIC THEMES ADDED POWER TO THE BOLLYWOOD PLATTER THIS YEAR AND THE LEADING LADIES IMPRESSED WITH THEIR BOLDNESS AND INTENSE ACTING. ACTRESSES LIKE VIDYA BALAN, PRIYANKA CHOPRA AND KATRINA KAIF GAVE THE INDUSTRY'S MENFOLK A RUN FOR THEIR MONEY.

I

Bollywood's female pack

Dixit in "Mere Brother Ki Dulhan", this Britain-born girl has been proving her range with every passing year.

ANS lists the top 10 actresses who swept the audience away in 2011:

5. KALKI KOECHLIN

1. VIDYA BALAN

She started the year with a stellar performance as a deglamorised, strongwilled simpleton in the real-life inspired "No One Killed Jessica", and featured in cameos in "Thank You", "Dum Maaro Dum" and Malayalam film "Urumi".

But for the 33-yearold 'bombaat' actress, 2011 ended with a bang with her sizzling portrayal of a dancing star, Silk, in "The Dirty Picture".

Vidya explored new realms to her acting potential, and emerged as a winner, overshadowing other commercially hit Bollywood divas.

With four diverse films -- "Shaitan", "Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara", "That Girl in Yellow Boots" and "My Friend Pinto" Kalki has been on a roll this year! Her easy and fluid portrayal of a mentally disturbed girl, a nagging girlfriend, a girl in search of her father, and a lost girl abandoned by her boyfriend, have reassured cine-buffs of her capacity as a new age, commercially-viable actress, who dares to choose different roles.

3.

6. KANGANA RANAUT

2. KAREENA KAPOOR

Two films and both hits!

Even after over a decade, Kareena stood out among her contemporaries with the recordbreaker "Bodyguard" opposite Salman Khan, and Shah Rukh Khan's mega-production "RA.One".

She also proved her dancing mettle once again with "Chammak challo", which went on to be a huge chartbuster.

PRIYANKA CHOPRA

After an average 2010, Priyanka Chopra sprang back into action by carrying out seven different looks in Vishal Bharadwaj's criticallyacclaimed "7 Khoon Maaf". In the character of a serial spouse-killer, Sussanna, the actress has displayed why she is a National Award winner at such a young age. She will round up the year as Shah Rukh Khan's 'junglee billi' in the much-awaited "Don 2: The King Is Back".

4. KATRINA KAIF

As a free-spirited, independent girl in the multistarrer " Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara", as a sexy item girl in "Bodyguard" or as the effervescent Dimple

Year 2011 saw Kangana in a new avatar. As a bindaas Kanpur girl in "Tanu Weds Manu", she gave her most desi performance ever.

She followed it up with the role of a cop in "Game", a supporting act in comedy films "Double Dhamaal" and "Rascals", and featured in "Miley Naa Miley Hum", which went unnoticed. However, Kangana's standing in the industry remains quite unaffected.

7. RANI MUKERJI

Her fans got a treat after two years when Rani returned to the big screen in "No One Killed Jessica". As a bold jour-

Kangna Ranaut's excited to do a double role

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t's a big deal for B-Town actresses to be in a double role, given that, they barely have anything to do in a normal commercial Hindi film.

No wonder Kangna Ranaut is rejoicing, for in the sequel of Tanu Weds Manu, she will be seen in a double role. Says a trade source, "Bollywood has often seen male actors play double roles. Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Shahid Kapoor, Anil Kapoor, and Govinda have pulled off double roles with aplomb. Fewer heroines, though, have been given this honour." When you talk of women in double roles, Sridevi in Chaalbaaz, Madhuri in Sangeet, Kajol in Dushman and Kuch Khatti, Kuch Meethi, Deepika Padukone

in Om Shanti Om as well as Chandni Chowk To China and Priyanka Chopra in What's Your Rashee come to mind immediately. Joining them now, will be Kangna. Kangna confesses, "I can't give out much on the story, but yes, I am playing a double role in the TWM sequel. It is going to be a bigger and better film; I'm really excited!" There's a lot more to be excited about. She has been shooting for Rakesh Roshan's Krrish-3 that went on the floors earlier this month. The curly-haired actress plays a super-girl in the film. Almost breathless with excitement, she gushes, "Krrish-3 has taken all my time, my life and energy." This year has been a fantastic year for this young, thinking

actress. She had multiple releases including the hits Tanu Weds Manu and Double Dhamaal. She has replaced Vidya Balan in Dedh Ishqiyaa. Her name also figures on the wish list of reputed filmmakers like Vishal Bhardwaj and Ekta Kapoor.

However, her crowning glory at this juncture is that she has a double role in the TWM sequel. Director Aanand Rai feels that Kangs was the backbone of the original and is happy that the script makes place for "two of her" in the sequel. Reiterating Bollywood's faith in the fiery actress' ability, trade guru Taran Adarsh says, "Kangna has always managed to surprise her audience with her diversity.

BOLLYWOOD nalist, who gets the public together to demand justice for a cause, Rani delivered an image-breaking performance when she mouthed expletives and smoked a cigarette for the role.

8. ANUSHKA SHARMA

There's something that clicks about this Yash Raj Films find, despite average earners like "Patiala House" and "Ladies VS Ricky Bahl" in 2011.

Anushka's vivaciousness, million-dollar smile and perfect dancing skills have catapulted her into the league of promising leading ladies of tinsel town today.

9. DEEPIKA PADUKONE

At 25, Deepika has established herself as one of the more popular female stars of Hindi cinema. This year she strengthened her stance, not so much with her performances, but because of the elan with which she carried out the sultry song "Mit jaaye gum"; as the small town but confident girl in "Aarakshan"; and as the love interest of John Abraham in "Desi Boyz ".

10. MAHIE GILL

Her films, "Utt Patang", "Not A Love Story" and "Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster" this year didn't mint enough money at the box office, but her performance, like always, was well noticed. The critically acclaimed actress continues to choose films away from tried-and-tested formulas, and garners appreciation galore.

My dad is crazy

BOLLYWOOD

S

onam Kapoor spills the beans on the rapprochement with Abhay Deol, says she has always been in touch with him On Saturday, Mumbai Mirror reported how Sonam Kapoor and Abhay Deol were all set to work together yet again in Rajkumar Santoshi's next. And while, many thought that this was a big step for the young actors since their fallout after the release of Aisha, Sonam herself revealed that it wasn't her but her father who was upset with Abhay's unsavoury remarks about him. In fact, Sonam told Mumbai Mirror that she always thought Abhay was 'the most talented actor' and that they had stayed in touch even when 'he was in Spain shooting for Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara'.

"He said something weird about my dad. I didn't like it. But to be honest, it's between my

January 2012

19

Sonam Kapoor

dad and Abhay," said the same actress who had earlier expressed her shock over Abhay's comments about Anil Kapoor.

The actress who clearly stays separate from her father's affairs also stated that being a star kid has not really helped her in her career.

"My dad is crazy. He thinks I am headstrong.

But I always have this thing...I have to do everything on my own," she added.

But when it comes to dressing (and that is one thing she does really well), Sonam is totally dependent on her sister Rhea. "My Players look is completely Rhea. I gave her a brief that I want to look sexy but not 'nanga'. I am all covered up in the film and yet I look sexy. The entire credit goes to

Madhuri

ost her return from USA, Madhuri Dixit has been sending feelers to producers asking for meaty roles. One producer that she's most keen on working with is Sooraj Barjatya, who gave her the biggest hit of her career in Hum Aapke Hain Kaun.

She wants to reunite with Sooraj and do another family drama. Madhuri's also excited with reports that the Barjatyas have locked in Salman for their next film and has been making discreet enquiries about the subject of the film. She plans to pay him a courtesy visit in the coming weeks. Maybe there will be a HAHK 2 in the making?

Rhea," said the actress.

While her style quotient has remained a constant, the roles she has played have been extremely diverse. From intense drama in her debut Saawariya to a rom-com I Hate Luv Storys and now the action packed Players, was the choice intentional? "No one has ever asked me this before," said a surprised Sonam and added, "I love the fact that directors feel I can do everything. I'm glad to get all kind of roles. I get to wear Indian clothes as well as western. It's exhilarating. I have multiple personality so I can play multiple genres.

And though I am not very intelligent, there is a little bit of thought that goes behind my choice of films."

Shah Rukh, Priyanka Chopra the hottest pair

wants Sooraj T Barjatya film

P

he duo will co-host an awards show apart from appearing together in multiple endorsements in the coming year Shah Rukh Khan and Priyanka Chopra are the most sought after pair these days. They have been approached to cohost a major awards show and both have agreed to do it.

Apart from this, they've also been approached to do five endorsements together. So expect to see SRK and PC starring in a series of campaigns and commercials in 2012.

Currently, they are in the midst of deciding which endorsements to give the nod to.

A source who has made one such offer says, "They are definitely one of the hottest jodis in the market right now.

Last year, PC and Shahid Kapoor were

the hot pair and they teamed up for a series of coffee advertisements.

Now, Shah Rukh has replaced Kapoor. Also, Shah Rukh was seen in a series of print and television commercials for a home decor brand

with his wife Gauri last year."

Interestingly, the Don 2 pair has been offered ads together in the past but they've turned them down because they weren't interesting

enough. Now, with the sudden interest taken in their pairing by the public, SRK and PC are getting offers they are excited about.

While they've been on many public platforms together to promote their upcoming film, the pair is definitely most wanted for their chemistry. Which is perhaps why a last minute role was added for her in SRK's home production RA.One as well.

So far, SRK has hosted awards shows with Karan Johar and Saif Ali Khan.

This is the first time he will be teaming up with one of his leading ladies.

Says a source, "It was SRK's idea to get PC on board. A few years ago, she had hosted the same awards show and imitated Shah Rukh's character in My Name Is Khan.

He was very impressed with her talent and thought they should host the show together in the future."

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January 2012

WORLD NEWS

North Africa may emerge as new ‘theatre of jihad’

LONDON: North Africa could emerge as a new "theatre of jihad" with the handful of remaining top al-Qaida leaders shifting base from Pakistan and Afghanistan to countries like Libya, top British officials have warned.

"At least two relatively senior alQaida figures have already made their way to Libya , with others intercepted en route, raising fears that north Africa could become a new 'theatre of jihad' in coming months," The Guardian quoted officials as saying. "A group of very

experienced figures from north Africa left camps in Afghanistan's (north-eastern ) Kunar province where they have been based for several years and travelled back across the Middle East," one source said. "Some got stopped but a few got through."

The move to shift the base to Africa came after killing of senior al-Qaida members in an intense campaign of air strikes involving missiles launched from unmanned drones in Pakistan and Afghanistan, an official said. After

Argentine president Cristina Fernandez has cancer

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina: A government spokesman says President Cristina Fernandez will be operated on for papillary thyroid carcinoma on January 4. Spokesman Alfredo Scoccimarro says the carcinoma was detected during a routine medical exam on December. 22.

Scoccimarro said on Tuesday that doctors confirmed that the cancer hadn't metastasized or affected her lymph nodes. The 58-year-old Fernandez will be operated on in Buenos' Aires Hospital Austral on Jan. 4, 2012. She will rest and take time off from her duties until January 24.

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Osama's killing in May in Pakistan's Abbottabad , many other high ranking leaders of the group have also been killed. The paper said that British officials believe that a "last push" in 2012 is likely to definitively destroy Qaida's remaining "handful of the key players" .

"It is unclear whether the moves from west Asia to north Africa are prompted by a desire for greater security ... or part of a strategic attempt to exploit aftermath of the Arab spring," the paper said.

China to build world’s highest airport in 2012

BEIJING: China will construct the world's highest-altitude airport next year in Tibet, which will the sixth in the strategic Himalayan region.

The airport, planned at an altitude of 4,436 meters in Nagqu prefecture, will be 102 meters higher than Bamda Airport in Tibet's Qamdo prefecture , currently the world's highest, state-run Xinhua news agency quoted a government work report as saying. The airport

Street fights in Yemen as U.S. considers letting in Saleh

SANAA: Foes and backers of a plan to ease Yemen's president out of power fought each other with stones and clubs on Tuesday, deepening the country's chaos as Washington considered a request from the leader to fly to the United States. Youth activists, who have led months of protests against President Ali Abdullah Saleh's 33-year rule, were split on whether he should leave the country - saying it might ease the conflict but could also let him escape justice. Saleh bowed to months of protests and international pressure by agreeing last month to a deal that granted him immunity from prosecution over his violent crackdown on a popular uprising but saw him hand over power to his deputy. Far from resolving the crisis, the settlement has caused further tension between

January 2012

groups who opposed the immunity deal, and those who backed it - many of whom have since joined an interim government. Activists said at least 20 people were injured in the clashes in the capital, Sanaa, between supporters of the Islah party, which backed the immunity deal, and the Houthi movement, a Shi'ite rebel grouping in the north of the country. Washington and Saudi Arabia, which borders Yemen, both fear continued chaos would allow al Qaeda to build on its already strong presence in the country, which is close to key oil shipping lanes. After another bout of violence on Saturday - when protesters said Saleh's forces killed nine people who had joined a mass march against the immunity deal - the president vowed to give way to a successor and go to the United States.

will cover an area of up to 660 acres. The Tibetan Branch of the China civil aviation administration has said the airport is expected to cost $285million with a three-year construction period.

Regional aviation authorities will add more flights next year to connect major cities in Tibet and also link the plateau region with other major cities nationwide, according to the document.

China to introduce US style visa rules for foreigners

Beijing: China will introduce US style visa rules for foreigners, which included procedures like finger printing, to put in place biological identification data in order to "curb illegal entry" in the country to seek jobs.

The draft law on entry and exit procedures, currently under consideration by China's legislature, National People's Congress, for the first time, allows the Ministry of Public Security and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to put in place a system to gather biological identification data, such as fingerprints, on foreign visitors. The draft also stipulates that foreigners should be fingerprinted by public security departments when they apply for a residential certificate, official media reported today. China already has stringent rules for resident permits which are given every year for foreigners working here.

The former Kunming city hall topples during a controlled demolition in Kunming, Yunnan province.

Texas Governor and Republican candidate for president Rick Perry speaks during a town hall style campaign event at the Glenn Miller Birthplace Museum in Clarinda, Iowa.

Snow, tears mark funeral for North Korean leader Kim Jong-il

SEOUL: The world watched anxiously on Wednesday as North Korea staged a huge funeral in the capital, Pyongyang, for former leader Kim Jong-il, searching for signs of what to expect from the isolated nation that may be close to attaining nuclear weapons capacity.

Bleak pictures from state television showed a funeral cortege led by a limousine carrying a huge picture of the 69-year old, who died on December 17, passing serried ranks of olive green-clad soldiers whose bare heads were bowed in homage in the main square of the snow-covered capital.

A hearse carrying the coffin was led by a weeping Kim Jong-un, the son and heir, accompanied by Jang Song-thaek, his uncle and a key power-broker in the transition, and

Ri Yong-ho, the army chief of staff.

"Seeing this white snow fall has made me think of the general's efforts and this brings tears to my eyes," Seo Ju-rim, a red-cheeked, weeping female soldier, told North Korean television, referring to Kim. One of the myths surrounding Kim Jong-il was that he could control the weather and state media has reported unusually cold and wild weather accompanying his death. Video showed weeping civilians who swayed with grief and shouted "father, father" as black Lincoln and Mercedes limousines and army trucks streamed past the crowds. It was not clear whether the pictures were live or recorded.

"I wished it was a dream, how can this be true," sobbed one middle-aged woman named Kim.

Failing to tell time might have cost Indian student's life in UK

LONDON: Anuj Bidve, the unfortunate young man who lost his life in an "unprovoked" attack by a stranger in the UK, might have been killed after failing to tell the gunman the correct time. The 23-year-old, from Pune, was killed on Monday and police, which has not ruled out a racist angle, has arrested four persons in connection to the case.

Bidve, who was studying at Lancaster University, was killed in the early hours of Boxing Day as he and a group of friends made their way through Salford towards Manchester city centre. Quoting friends of Bidve, a media report described how two men approached him and asked for time.

After speaking to Bidve for a moment, one of the men was seen to pull out a handgun and shoot the student in the side of the head at point blank range, the Daily Telegraph reported. A senior police source confirmed that Bidve had responded "politely" to the

question and there was no apparent reason for the shooting.

Sheetal Patel, 25, a cake maker who went to Bidve's aid after being flagged down by his friends, said it took 25 minutes for the emergency services to arrive. "When we arrived he was still alive and I thought he was going to survive," she told the newspaper.

"He was breathing and I was holding his hand. His hand was very warm. He kept on trying to breathe. It is really weird that he is not with us any more". Yesterday the family of Bidve, who was studying for a postgraduate degree in mocroelectronics, spoke of their devastation.

His brother-in-law, Rakesh Sonawane, 30, said: "Anuj had been very happy. It was his dream to go to the UK but unfortunately his dream could not last longer than three months. We have completely lost faith in everything".

22

January 2012

Sehwag completes 8000 runs in Test cricket

MELBOURNE: Dashing opener Virender Sehwag became the fifth Indian batsman to complete 8000 runs in Test cricket when he reached an individual score of 20 against Australia in the first cricket Test at the MCG. Before Sehwag, Sunil Gavaskar, Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid and VVS

Laxman are the Indian players

Stay away from WSH or face 5-year ban: PHF

LAHORE: The Pakistan Hockey Federation on Monday threatened to impose five-year bans on players, who opt to play in the unsanctioned tournaments such as muchhyped World Series Hockey, planned in India.

The decision was taken at PHF's General Council meeting, where it also decided that the federation would take legal action against former Olympians who are making allegations of corruption and misuse of power against PHF officials.

"The council has unanimously agreed that all those players who defy the PHF and go and play in any tournament that is not sanctioned by the International Hockey Federation will be immediately banned for five years and would not be able to play in Pakistan," PHF President Qasim Zia said.

A number of leading Pakistani players have signed up for different teams in the lucrative WSH which has been deferred to February 2012 by the organisers who are offering handsome payments to players. Forward Rehan Butt, former Pakistan captain Zeeshan Ashraf, half-backs Waseem Ahmed

and Shakeel Abbasi, goalkeeper Salman Akbar and some other players are said to have signed deals with the WHS franchises. Zia said the Council also decided that while it had no issues with former Olympians criticising the PHF or its working, it would no longer tolerate allegations of corruption and misuse of power. "Former Olympians are free to criticise the federation or performance of team but we can't have any of them making serious and unsubstantiated allegations of corruption against PHF officials," Zia said. Former Olympians Naved Alam and Mansoor Ahmed had recently alleged that some PHF officials including secretary Asif Bajwa were involved in human trafficking and misuse of funds in the Federation.

who have reached the coveted milestone. He is the 23rd batsman in history of Test cricket to complete 8000 Test runs.

Sehwag completed the feat in his 93rd Test match and by guiding Peter Siddle to deep fine leg. Prior to the Melbourne Test match, Sehwag has hit 22 centuries at an average of over 52.

Westwood clinches Thailand title to scale rankings

BANGKOK: Lee Westwood displayed all his class and experience Sunday as he brushed aside a challenge from Masters champion Charl Schwartzel to win the $1 million Thailand Golf Championship by seven strokes.

The emphatic victory at the Amata Spring Country Club, Westwood's fourth of the season, moved him up to world number two, replacing Rory McIlroy.

The Englishman had played fine golf all week including a stunning 12-under-par 60 in the first round.

He shot 69 in his final round to finish the tournament on 266, an impressive 22 under par, for his third win in Asia this season.

Schwartzel fought hard and briefly threatened the leader, but the South African had to settle for the runner-up spot after shooting an even-par 72.

Little-known American Michael Thompson performed well with a 70 to finish in third place, one shot back, while in joint fourth place two strokes further behind were Thailand's Chawalit Plaphol and Simon Dyson of England.

Corruption at the top dominates football in 2011

SPORTS

LONDON: Football in 2011 was dominated by events off the field rather than on it. Barcelona and Lionel Messi continued to provide some of the most sparkling performances in the sport's long history and Uruguay further overshadowed Brazil and Argentina at the top of the South American game, but headlines around the world were dominated by allegations of corruption and bribery at FIFA. The sport's governing body was beset by allegations as behind-thescenes politicking was thrust into the spotlight by the fallout from its 2010 decision to give future World Cup tournaments to Russia and Qatar. Sepp Blatter was re-elected unopposed as FIFA president but the year was almost out before he announced details of long-promised reforms. Blatter's position at the top of FIFA was secured after his only rival for the presidency, Mohamed bin Hammam of Qatar, was forced to withdraw from the June election over bribery allegations that later led to a lifetime ban from the sport.

Blatter has hinted that his new Independent Governance Committee could examine cases including the decision to award the 2018 World Cup to Russia and the 2022 event to Qatar. Even the 10year-old kickbacks case that led to former FIFA President Joao Havelange's resignation from the IOC is being picked over.

The 95-year-old Havelange, Blatter's mentor and predecessor, joined the IOC in 1963 and was its longest-standing member. He resigned in December, days before he faced possible suspension for allegedly taking a $1 million kickback from World Cup marketing deals while FIFA president. The IOC

closed its ethics investigation into Havelange after his resignation. The appointment of a University of Basel professor - who formerly served on an independent inquiry team examining alleged corruption in the Iraqi oil-for-food program - to spearhead reforms lends credibility to Blatter's committee.

But whether a body widely criticized for a lack of transparency and accountability can be persuaded of the need for comprehensive change remains to be seen.

Blatter was forced to apologize in November for causing outrage among players, officials and even sponsors by suggesting that racial incidents between players on the field could be settled by a handshake at the end of a game.

The topic of racism surfaced several times through the year, with England captain John Terry and Uruguay forward Luis Suarez both accused of abusing opponents, while France coach Laurent Blanc came close to resigning following a row about quotas at training academies.

Blanc acknowledged that his crude language in a conversation with French Football Federation colleagues was wrong and offensive but said the debate over whether dual nationals of African descent should be in the French system remained valid.

Staying fit key to doing well OULTER MASTERS WIND TO DON GOLD JACKET in Olympics : Sania Mirza

MUMBAI: Indian tennis star Sania Mirza, who is recovering from a knee injury sustained during the US Open, on Tuesday said that staying fit and injury-free would be key to her London Olympics dreams.

"At the moment, I'm in the top100 in singles and the fact is I'm still very much there. Of course I'm 11th in the world in doubles. At this point, it would be very easy for me to say that I'll play only doubles. It would be physically very much easier," the 25-year-old Hyderabadi told reporters on the sidelines of a promotional event for Nokia. "But yes this (2012) is an Olympic year which comes at the end of the season for us.

So yes, you have to see that you stay healthy (to play in Olympics). But it all depends on how my knee reacts after two-three months. I can plan better only after two-three months," she added. She was replying to a query on whether she would think of concentrating only on one format considering her injuries. Top 60 players in singles and top 10 in doubles make automatic qualification in Olympics.

MELBOURNE: England's Ian Poulter finished the season by donning the gold Australian Masters winner's jacket on Sunday after a resilient final round of fourunder 67 at the windswept Victoria Golf Club in Melbourne.

"To win this is the second highlight in what has been a tough year for me," Poulter said. "To do this in a Ryder Cup year and move inside the top 20 on the world rankings means a heck of a lot."

Poulter, 37, who also won the world matchplay in Spain this year, finished with a 72hole total of 269 - 15 under par - and pocketed a cheque for Aus$180,000 ($179,500).

He finished three clear of Australian Marcus Fraser (12-under 272) and four ahead of another home player, 2006 US Open winner Geoff Ogilvy (11-under 273).

World number one Luke Donald had looked dangerous on the front nine when he moved to eight under for the tournament, but faltered on the way home for a 72 and a four-under total of 280.

Poulter began the day two behind overnight leader Ogilvy and said it was an advantage being paired with the leader. The Englishman,

regarded as one of the best exponents of matchplay golf, immediately put pressure on his opponent with an eagle at the short 233-metre par-four opening hole.

He rolled in a five-metre putt after hitting a five wood off the tee while the Australian went with a threeiron as winds gusted up to 50 kilometres per hour (31 mph).

"That was absolutely crucial," Poulter said. "That gave me a great opportunity - all tied with 17 to play, so that was a nice little boost. "I love being in contention - if you are down the field, there's no excitement, no adrenalin, no interest." The conditions were demanding, he said.

"I've been chilled all week and today was a day for patience. There was no getting away with bad shots in the wind and in a way I think that really helped me focus. "I hit some really good shots today. It was a pure ball-striking round of golf although I lost concentration over the last two holes," he said.

Poulter said he will celebrate with "a big Christmas turkey" at home with his family in the US before taking January off.

Fellow Englishman Donald said Poulter's win was outstanding.

TRAVEL It's part of the fun things to do on a vacation. Make the cityscape a part of your meal by picking a table with a great view outdoors. When the weather's good it adds to the fun if it. Here's where you'll find the prettiest sidewalk bistros and open street cafes to indulge. Tuck in...

TOP 8 CITIES TO DINE ALFRESCO

oil. Quite a healthy idea!

SINGAPORE

This is an ethnic food lover's paradise. Choose from Malay and local foods as well as to French, Italian and Indian varieties too. From waterfront eateries to little sidewalk cafes and seafood specialty spots, there are choices aplenty here!

PARIS, FRANCE

This is one tops the list, as Paris is not known as the gourmet capital of the world for nothing. You have a choice of bistros, patisseries and boulangeries. Little sidewalk cafes dot almost every street corner and cobblestone alley, are where tourists nibble on croque-monsieur and croissants. Most famous are the ones found on Montmarte and Left Bank.

LONDON, ENGLAND

Eating out is quite the norm in London. From Hyde Park, where you can picnic in style by renting lawn chairs or picnic tables and terraces in Hampstead, foodies will have a great time eating outdoors.

From a stylish roof terrace restaurant that offers a view over London's Square Mile, to Heddon Street that has lovely pavement dining tables, the list goes on...

BARCELONA, SPAIN

Enjoy the tapas, bocadillos, salads at the lovely terrace and street-level eateries

23

January 2012

COPENHAGAN, DENMARK

Eating out means open sandwiches and beer in Denmark. There are a large number of restaurants, pastry shops and hot dog stands that are thronging with touristy crowds.

Quite popular are the potato and pasrnip mash or even the sourgoudgh bread and blue cheese kornblomst.

The little open-air seaters are ususalyy packed through the day here.

in Barcelona. For beachside tapas, the seafront offers several spots while La Rambla, Barca's busy boulevard throws up fun sidewalk cafes.

MIAMI, FLORIDA

This is beach lover's town so be prepared for some open-air food everywhere.

The casual waterfront decks and restaurants have ocean views and it's where most of the crowd gathers post sundown.

VENICE, ITALY

There are several tavernas and trattorias looking over the Grand Canal, that offer a good deal for dining

MONTREAL, CANADA

out. Fro old-fashioned This old-fashioned osterias that offer roast chicken with the traditional pasta, lasagne and

tramezzini sandwiches, to other open air cafes, it's fun to eat out while on holiday here. A must-try is the fritto

Royal Fiji Police Awards Night

SACRAMENTO –First Royal Fiji Poluce Wards Night is slated for March this year tentavely to be held in Sacramento. We are open to suggestions and all former police officers are welcome to call in with their ideas:

1800-757-6619

Awards

Many police officers will qualify for certifcates and Diplomas based on their past performances and Civil Services Exams that equits with American college education. These awards are aimed at further enhancing their present career and desire to seek further education.

Recognition beyond belief

The recognitin of the Royal Fiji Police Awards will be backed with 100% professional evaluation and credential exceeding beyond what was limited to departmental suittability only. It will be a definate mark of honor.

misto or frittura mista (fried seafood), that comes served in a brown paper cone in order to absorb it's cooking

Since the place has a bitterly cold winter, eating out in summer is akin to festivity.

The sidewalk cafes are brimming with the crowd - locals and tourists alike - who enjoy the coffees, finger foods as French fare like foie gras.

Must visit spots? SaintLaurent and Mont-Royal.

US Updates

US says China not currency manipulator; chides Japan 24

January 2012

WASHINGTON: The US Treasury again shied away from labeling China a currency manipulator on Tuesday, but it rapped the country for not moving quickly enough on exchange rate reforms.

The United States also chided Japan for stepping into the currency market to stem the yen's rise, and urged South Korea to use such interventions sparingly. Some U.S. politicians have argued that China has gained an unfair competitive edge in global markets by keeping the yuan artificially low to boost exports, and pressure has mounted in Congress for President Barack Obama to punish China. But the administration prefers to tread softly and use diplomacy. The U.S. Treasury, in a semiannual report, as usual said that statutes covering a designation of currency manipulator "have not been met with respect to China." It repeated its standard line that appreciation in the yuan has been too slow, calling it "insufficient."

"Treasury will closely monitor the pace of appreciation and press for policy changes that yield greater exchange rate flexibility, a level playing field, and a sustained shift to domestic demand-led growth," it said in the report to Congress on international economic and exchange rate policies.

The value of the yuan, which Beijing manages closely, has risen 4 percent against the dollar this year

Condoms for porn actors to be on Los Angeles ballot

LOS ANGELES: A ballot initiative requiring Los Angeles porn actors to wear condoms has qualified to go before city voters in a presidential primary election in June, organizers said on Tuesday.

America's second-largest city is home to the multibillion dollar US porn industry, which health advocates say is riddled with sexually transmitted diseases.

The AIDS Healthcare Foundation said the city clerk certified the over 71,000 signatures it helped collect, far more than the 41,000 needed for the ballot initiative. "There are thousands of STDs in this industry," said Michael Weinstein, president of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, adding that jurisdictions pass the issue around like a hot potato.

"It's the ick factor. They don't want to deal with this because it's sex, and because it's porn," he said. Weinstein compared the measure to other public health laws that the city enforces, like those regulating massage parlors and smoking in public.

The California Division of Occupational Safety and Health has issued over $125,000 in fines against porn producers in the past five years for various violations, but some of those citations are on appeal, according to figures from the agency.

TARGETING TOKYO

The report did point the finger at Japan this time, criticizing Tokyo for its solo yen-selling interventions in August and October that followed a joint Group of 7 action in the aftermath of the March 11 earthquake. "The unilateral Japanese interventions were undertaken when exchange market conditions appeared to be operating in an orderly manner and volatility in the yen-dollar exchange rate was lower than, for example, the euro-dollar market," the report said.

"In contrast to the post-earthquake joint G7 intervention in March, the United States did not support these interventions," the Treasury said, adding that Tokyo should pursue reforms to revive its domestic economy rather than try to influence the exchange rate. A senior Japanese government official said the report did not change Tokyo's position that its currency policy was in line with G7 agreements.

"This report does not make it more difficult for Japan to intervene," said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the topic. "We are committed to doing whatever is necessary." Japanese exporters have complained that the ultra-strong yen puts them at a competitive disadvantage. The yen was trading at just under 78 to the U.S. dollar on Wednesday morning, about 3 percent weaker than it was on Oct. 31, when Tokyo aggressively intervened to cap the rise. and 7.7 percent since China dropped a firm peg against the greenback in June 2010. The Peterson Institute for International Economics recently estimated the yuan was undervalued by 24 percent against the dollar, down from 28 percent earlier in the year. It attributed the change to both Beijing's policy of gradual currency appreciation and higher Chinese inflation.

At the heart of the friction between the two countries is a U.S. trade deficit with China that swelled in 2010 to a record $273.1 billion from about $226.9 billion in 2009.

The cumulative Jan-Oct deficit with

China is on track to top that this year, running at around $245.5 billion.

The U.S. Senate this year for the first time passed a bill that would require the administration to slap penalties on Chinese imports if it fails to adopt market-based exchange rates. While the measure has made no progress in the lower chamber and is unlikely to become law, it shows the mounting U.S. frustration with its vital trade partner.

President Obama at the November APEC meetings, in his toughest words yet, told President Hu Jintao that China must play by global trade rules and act like "a grown-up."

U.S. President Barack Obama and his daughters Sasha and Malia (L) walk with friends during their visit to Sea Life Park Waimanalo, Hawaii.

the list of most admired women a total of 16 times since 1993, finishing second in 1995 and 1996 to Mother Teresa and in 2001 to Laura Bush.

No other woman has been named most admired woman as many times as Clinton. Eleanor Roosevelt is second with 13 No.1 finishes, followed by Margaret Thatcher, Jacqueline Kennedy, and

Mother Teresa.

Barack Obama's first-place finish is his fourth. Dwight Eisenhower holds the record for first-place finishers among men, with 12, followed by Ronald Reagan and Bill Clinton with 8 each.

It is clear from the list of most admired men that presidents usually win the honor, Gallup said. A sitting or newly elected president has won the distinction each of the last 31 years, and 55 times out of the 65 it has been asked.

The only non-presidents to finish first were Douglas MacArthur (1946-1947 and 1951), Eisenhower (1950 before being elected and 1967-1968 after leaving office), Henry Kissinger (1973-1975), and Pope John Paul II (1980).

Obama, Hillary Clinton again top most admired list

WASHINGTON: President Barack Obama and secretary of state Hillary Clinton continue to be named by Americans as the most Admired Man and most admired woman living today in any part of the world.

While Obama has been the most admired man four years in a row Clinton has been the most admired woman each of the last 10 years, according to a new Gallup poll, leading public opinion pollster.

The top five most admired men also include George W Bush, Bill Clinton, Billy Graham, and Warren Buffett, while Oprah Winfrey, Michelle Obama, Sarah Palin, and Condoleezza Rice round out the top five Most Admired women.

Hillary Clinton has now topped

Obama: I'm a softie, not like Spock at all

It's official: US president Barack Obama has nothing to do with highly logical, largely insensitive Spock character on the science fiction TV show " Star Trek" . "What's the biggest misconception about you?"

ABC interviewer Barbara Walters asked Obama. "Me being detached , or Spock-like , or very analytical," said Obama. "People who know me know that I am a softie. I mean, stuff can choke me up very easily."

On the show Mr Spock, who is half-human and half-Vulcan - an alien race - struggles to remain detached and suppress any human emotions . "The challenge for me," Obama told ABC, "is that in this job ... people want you to be very demonstrative in your emotions" in the press or on television, he said.

Hearing concludes for suspected WikiLeaks leaker

FORT MEADE, MARYLAND: The US Army intelligence analyst accused of leaking classified files to the WikiLeaks website gave enemies "unfettered access" to government secrets, a military prosecutor said on Thursday, but a defence lawyer said the soldier had done no harm. The lawyers made closing arguments at a hearing to determine whether Private First Class Bradley Manning, 24, should be court-martialed on charges including aiding the enemy and wrongfully causing intelligence to be published on the Internet. Manning's lawyer David Coombs accused prosecutors of overreaching in bringing 22 criminal charges, saying the massive release of documents had caused no harm to national security and the government was try-

ing "to strong-arm a plea from my client." "The sky is not falling, the sky has not fallen and the sky will not fall" as a result of the document release, Coombs said.

Captain Ashden Fein, the lead prosecutor, countered that the document release had helped al Qaeda, showing a video in which a recruiter for the militant group referred to WikiLeaks and urged followers to "take advantage of the wide range of resources available today on the Internet." Aiding the enemy is an offense that could bring the death penalty but the prosecution has said it intends to seek life in prison for Manning. Coombs said the prosecution needed a "reality check" and focused his closing remarks on urging them to seek no more

than 30 years in prison. Coombs asked the court to throw out charges of aiding the enemy and giving intelligence to the enemy, saying the audience for the information was the American people. He also urged the court to dismiss several other counts, saying overall security within the unit was lax. Lieutenant Colonel Paul Almanza, the investigating officer in the case, will now review the evidence presented at the hearing and make a recommendation by January 16 on whether the military should courtmartial Manning.

Manning is accused of downloading more than 700,000 classified or confidential files from the military's Secret Internet Protocol Router Network, or SIPRNet, while serving in Iraq.

STAR AGE ARIES

March-21 to April-20

CANCER

June-22 to July-23

You are confident, gracious and balanced when dealing with people and situation this month. It is high time for you to get rid of this to enjoy life. Avoid it to the extent possible and then gradually with the passing of time it would automatically disappear. Don't disappoint if you fail to meet your dream prince/princess today. Try harder you will definitely succeed.

This is a mixed resulting month for you also. Don't get frustrated if your ideas do not work early this month. No need to feel disheartened, rather look for the reasons. Have firm belief in your ideas and yourself to bring rich rewards.

During the second half of the month diabetic patients need to be extra careful about their health.

This is a favorable month for many of you. you will have to travel further away from home than usual. Do not think much about the household chores that need to be done. The second half of the month will make you quite busy and September-24 engaged. Try to make out time for recreation and relaxation in the weekend.

TAURUS

April-21 to May-20

LEO

July-24 to August-23

LIBRA

SCORPIO

to October-22

October-23 to November-22

CAPRICON

December-23 to Januar-20

It would be appropriate for you to declare this a health care and prevention month. You seem to be back on the right track again. Make an effort to win approval of influential people. Your close acquaintances can do you a good turn.

New business deals can be signed during the second half of the month.

Youngsters will need special attention from you.

AQUARIES

January-21 to February-19

This month some of you may undertake long journey. Do not try to be too clever. Keep all business dealing open and aboveboard. Concentrate on work well within your capacity. If you chance your luck, losses could well be incurred.

A more intuitive approach to study or self-improvement endeavors is likely to prove the most productive.

This month you play pivotal role in the family and influence children and their future. Colleagues at your work place can be of great assistance. During midmonth, you will have the chance to organize people in-groups. You will be able to ease the tensed situation at your home. Business folks may expect some unexpected gains.

This is a changeable month for many of you. Don’t bet your money on something you suspect may not give good returns.

The early half of the month is good for shopping for you home. You will continue to get pleasure from your purchases.

Local trips are likely to be quite tiring, especially if you get involved in for more physical activity.

A demanding week with the promise of great fulfillment. The early half of the month will probably get off to a slow and uneventful start. You will be able to impress influential people who want to deal with routine matters. The second half of the month is good time to catch up with backlogs and bring overdue projects to close.

January 2012

25

This is a mixed month for you. You are lucky in love and have loyal friends around you who give you attention and care when you need it. You should behave confidently at your place of work. Developing this kind of attitude will ultimately have a positive influence on your health. Good week from love point of view as you are easily able to attract the attention of opposite sex.

GEMINI

May-21 to June-21

VIRGO

August-24 to September-23

SAGITTARIUS

November-23 to December-22

PISCES

February-20 to March-20

Things are changing all around you.

You should be feeling reasonably confident this month. Your original ideas and plans are going to be appreciated and well considered by superiors. Health may be a cause of concern for some of you. Short journey in the second half of the month is indicated.

This is a challenging month for some of you. do not take up too much responsibility upon yourself. Consult with your superiors about any tricky problem. Avoid taking silly risks with your money this month. Spend more of your spare time with your mate or partner.

The month is pleasant. Someone you have met recently may be getting too intimate too fast. In the midmonth your intuition may tell you to hold back on making a commitment for this month. If you have the opportunity to move in a different social sphere, give it a try. In the second half of the month entertainment is highlighted.

Chanakya Niti: Key to happy life

It is true that nobody can change the past. But, some people keep thinking about what happened in the past and end up ruining their present and future.

According to Acharya Chanakya, a person who is always worried about whatever happened in the past can never be happy. One should learn from their past and move ahead in life. He says, every person should make sure that he doesn’t repeat the mistakes committed in the past.

Staying upset about something that happened will not serve any purpose. Similarly, people should not get upset about some predictions that may happen in future.

Chanakya says, predicting future is impossible and there are high chances that the prophesies may prove false. Hence, a man should not worry about the past or the future and live in the present.

Following this principle will keep a man happy throughout his life.

HUNT IS ON 26

January 2012

THE Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) has released the names of the four-member selection and interview panel to pick the new Flying Fijians coaching job. FRU chief executive officer Manasa Baravilala said the panel would be headed by FRU board subcommittee (Games) and deputy chairman Ilaitia Tuisese. Other members of the panel include FRU president Ratu Isikeli Tasere, International Rugby Board (IRB) technical expert Brian O'Shea and Baravilala.

Baravilala says once the IRB representative, O'Shea, confirms his availability to travel to Fiji, the panel will then lock in some dates for the interviews of Samuela Domoni's successor.

The application deadline for the top job was due yesterday and indications are a large number of applications have been dropped at the Rugby House. The initial application deadline was on December 16 but it was moved to yesterday to allow IRB to be represented on the panel.

FRU operations manager Vilikesa Rinavuaka earlier told Times Sport the IRB was working closely with rugby unions around the globe and had been partially funding the affairs within each union. Rinavuaka said the IRB had its input on vital positions within the unions to ensure the best person was selected for the betterment of the sport globally. Baravilala, however, was unable to confirm the exact number of applicants saying: "I don't have the

final tally right now (yesterday)."

"The first and early applicants were from Fiji, New Zealand, Australia, Pacific Island Countries, United Kingdom and Europe," he said.

"We are unable to confirm (how many locals have applied for the job) as we have locals residing overseas that also applied." Baravilala said he could not reveal the top names linked with the job. He said: "I'm not at liberty to discuss publicly who has or has not applied." Local media reports earlier stated that FRU development officer Sale Sorovaki and former Flying Fijians skipper Greg Smith had applied for the job. Meanwhile, the first task for the new coach is likely to lead the national side in a proposed Test match against Scotland and England before the IRB Pacific Nations Cup in 2012.

The new coach is expected to be named next month.

Rewa back in the thick of things

Defending champions, the Delta Tigers took to Ratu Cakobau Park today for their first training session, the first team to return to the pitch in 2012, and in so doing set alarm bells ringing in the camps of their fellow Champions League contenders.

With everything to lose, Rewa cut short their players' break to return to training, underlining their intentions for the upcoming 3-day Pillay Garments sponsored Champions League title.

About ten players turned up, among them coach and player Marika Rodu, Posiano Kalisito and Betsy Ali. Others were unavailable due to commitments, but have assured the team management their presence from day two of training tomorrow. “Some of our players are with the Fiji Under-23s and that’s Betsy Ali, Peniame Drova and our youngster Iosefo Verevou who begin their training tomorrow. “Others will come in from tomorrow, so we should be back in full force in no time,” a confident team manager Lawrence Nath said. Meanwhile, Nath has also cleared the air on the ‘supposed’ movement of their players in the current window, saying only Niumaia Tagi’s request for release to Ba was received.

Puna finds his match

FORMER Fiji Bati rugby league star Puna Rasaubale finally scored the try of his life when he wed his longtime sweetheart Francesca Scott Nauku at the Novotel Hotel in Lami last weekend.

Rasaubale was born in Fiji and migrated to Australia with his family when he was a year old.

The 24-year old former Sydney Roosters rugby league player met girlfriend Nauku while returning from his English super league side, Gateshead Thunder three years ago.

Nauku, 23, hails from Vatutu in Nadi. Rasaubale's father, Serupepeli Anthony Rasaubale Snr, said he was proud with the achievements of his son.

"I'm definitely proud of my son. I believe this is a huge and giant step in his life that he has settled down to start a family of his own.

"We are so happy for him and we give him all our blessing for the new journey," Rasaubale Snr said. He said Puna wanted his wedding to be done in Fiji. "He was the one that decided to have his wedding in the country. He has that great passion for Fiji and is proud to be called a Fijian. "Puna is turning to boxing now and I believe Francesca will be of great help to him, especially in looking after his diet," Rasaubale said. Puna represented Fiji in amateur boxing at the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne, Australia.

Netball fast track

NETBALL Fiji coach Unaisi Rokoura is planning to use the shorter version of the game to boost the performance of the national team next year. The national side played the abbreviated code (called Fastnet) for the first time at the World Fastnet Series in Liverpool, England last month. Rokoura said the team learnt some valuable lessons from participating at the Fastnet Series, which featured the top six teams in the world. "It's like more fun playing the game. It tests the players speed and the capability of the coaches on doing the substitution at the right time," she said.

"Each quarter is six minutes and this reminds us of the importance of each moment in the game and how precious it is."

Fiji lost all its matches in the Fastnet Series and finished last in the week-long tournament.

However, Rokoura hailed the performance of the national players in their match against New Zealand. The side almost created the

biggest upset of the tournament but a strong comeback in the latter stages of the game by the Silver Ferns saw them win 24-14.

"We kept the ball for most of the time and it reflected in the performance against New Zealand. The team learnt their lessons from Fastnet Series and went on to win the Foundation Cup in Singapore," Rokoura said. "I'm planning to use this game more often during our trainings next year to improve on the speed and emphasise on the importance of maintaining possession in any game." According to Wikipedia, Fastnet is a variation of netball featuring shortened games and goals worth multiple points. The new format was announced by the International Federation of Netball Associations (IFNA) in 2008, and was primarily developed for a new international competition, the World Netball Series. This new format can be compared to Twenty20 cricket and rugby sevens.

FIJI SPORTS

Navua goalie set to rejoin Nadi

National goalkeeper Benaminio Mateinaqara has declared his interest to leave Navua and rejoin Nadi in the new window. This has been confirmed to Fijilive by Navua FA president Gopal Naidu. “Ben’s application is the only one we have received,” he said. He added Navua was grateful to Mateinaqara for his services and wished him well for his new season with Nadi. Meanwhile, Naidu denied claims that Jesoni Takala was looking for a switch to Lautoka and Seveci Rokotakala and Simione Maikali wanted a Suva move. Navua under a new administration is rumored to lose a bunch of key players.

Suva moves for changes at Rugby House

Suva Rugby Union wants changes made to Fiji Rugby’s constitution.

This is part of a proposal the capital city-based Union submitted to the PriceWaterhouse Coopers when the firm requested for feedback from member unions on a structure it is drawing up for a new-look Fiji Rugby Union administration. He did not elaborate much, but SRU chairman Francis Kean said they wanted two changes to FRU's constitution and 14 changes to its administrative operations. The PwC has until the end of the month to finalise the new operations structure to be submitted to FRU.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE CROSSWORD

Catch-Words -01

ACROSS

1. Involving the entire Earth (9) 6. Blunder (5) 9. To that extent (7) 10. Songbird (7) 11. Penitence (7) 12. No longer in existence (7) 13. Negated (9) 15. Lacquer ingredient (5) 16. H2O (5) 19. Parachuting (9) 22. Expressing deep emotion (7) 23. Examined (financials) (7) 25. Craftsperson (7) 26. Rude (7) 27. Inhabit (5) 28. The outer layer of the skin (9)

DOWN

1. Preen (5) 2. Armory (7) 3. A former Turkish term of respect (7) 4. Concur (5) 5. The day before (9) 6. Move or jump suddenly (7) 7. Set up (7) 8. Unintentional (9) 13. It might sell The Times (9) 14. Impertinence (9) 17. Member of a governing board (7) 18. To decline (7) 20. Enjoy to excess (7) 21. Temporary (7) 23. Exculpation (5) 24. Guys (5)

DO THE COLORING

Peggy’s Talking Pets

A short story about the importante of listening Peggy Pigtails was a good girl, and she was quite quiet and reserved. Not many words passed her lips, partly due to shyness, and partly because she sometimes felt she had nothing interesting to say.

But that all changed when Peggy and her family moved houses. On arriving at the new place, she discovered a huge attic full of old junk. In one pile she found a big chest containing all kinds of strange things.

Under them all, she found something special. It was an old book with a great heavy, thick cover, with gold writing on it. But what made it truly special was how it shone in the darkness of that attic, and in the most magical, fantastical way.

What's more, the book was actually floating in the air.

Peggy could find nothing holding it up. She took the book down to her room and hid it there until nighttime, putting her puppy on guard duty over it.

That night, when she was sure no one would disturb her, she sat with her doggy and started reading the book. It was a storybook, but Peggy could hardly get any of it read. She had only just started when her dog started speaking to her: "What an interesting book you've found! It seems to have some lovely stories!" Peggy couldn't believe it, but the puppy continued talking, telling her all sorts of things, and asking a thousand questions. After some time, Peggy regained her composure and asked, "So how come you're talking?" "I don't know," answered the dog. "Instead of just thinking things, now I'm saying them too... it hasn't changed much for me; I guess it was the book that did it, though." Peggy decided to investigate the matter, and she thought she would show the book to some other animals.

One after another, the animals all started talking, and, before

PUZZLE

Coloring pages are fun, but they also help children develop many important skills. These skills, eye-hand coordination, color concepts, picture comprehension, form the foundation for early learning success!

long, Peggy was chatting - in the most friendly manner - with a dog, three cats, two doves, a parrot, and five lizards. All the animals spoke as though they'd been doing so all their lives, and all of them had some pretty interesting tales to tell!

"Sure, babe!" Lemmy the lizard told her, "we all lead pretty incredible lives!"

Peggy Pigtails spent the next several days nattering with her new friends, and really enjoyed it. One day, though, unaware as to why, the book disappeared; and with it went the animals' voices. Peggy looked everywhere, but couldn't find that book. Within a few days, she was missing the chats with her new animal friends so much that she could hardly think of anything else. Then she remembered what Lemmy the lizard said to her, and she realised that she hardly spoke at all to her classmates or other children, and they probably had incredible lives too!

So, from that day, little by little, Peggy started talking more to her schoolmates, trying to find out about their lives. In the end, without realising it, she came to have more friends than anyone else in the whole school. And never again was she short of someone to have a good old natter with.

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THE ANT AND THE GRASSHOPPER

I

n a field one summer's day a Grasshopper was hopping about, chirping and singing to its heart's content. An Ant passed by, bearing along with great toil an ear of corn he was taking to the nest. "Why not come and chat with me," said the Grasshopper, "instead of toiling and moiling in that way?" "I am helping to lay up food for the winter," said the Ant, "and recommend you to do the same." "Why bother about winter?" said the Grasshopper; "We have got plenty of food at present." But the Ant went on its way and continued its toil.

When the winter came the Grasshopper had no food and found itself dying of hunger while it saw the ants distributing every day corn and grain from the stores they had collected in the summer. Then the Grasshopper knew: It is best to prepare for days of need.

JOKES

Teacher: Ramu, name one important thing we have today that we didn't have ten years ago.

Ramu: Me! Teacher: What a pair of strange socks you are wearing, one is green and one is blue with red spots!

Ramu: Yes it's really strange. I've got another pair of the same at home.

Teacher: Shamu, go to the map and find North America.

Shamu: Here it is!

Teacher: Correct. Now, Ramu, who discovered America?

Ramu: Shamu!

Teacher: Ramu, your composition on "My Dog" is exactly the same as your brother's. Did u copy his?

Ramu: No, teacher, it's the same dog!

Teacher: "George Washington not only chopped down his father's Cherry tree, but also admitted doing it. Now do you know why his father didn't punish him?"

Ramu: "Because George still had the axe in his hand."

Glimpses of Rhema Church Christmas services led by Pastor Henry Latchman and his ministerial team 28

LOCAL NEWS

January 2012

FIJI AMERICAN IDOL SHOW

Fiji Interfaith Day : A grand Fiji Interfaith Day is in the planning process to give our Fiji’s faith-based communities greater opportunities to expand and interact with one another to promote peace, love and brotherhood seeking commmon groungs for unity in the name of God. Already, Fiji community is proud for its active involvement in various faith activities, It is for all to come together at least once a year to enjoy the spsitual blessings that all faiths tend to offer. (See also Kids Page for Fiji Sun pictures by Ms. Nerru Prasad)

Naweed (Nick) Wahid takes over Winton Avebased Kabul Banquet Hall

A UC Berekely graduate with Masters in Administration, Naweed (Nick) Wahid worked for seeral coprorations before going inton business on his own. Nick likes to be on top of the things is very good in people skills both his own staff and public. “ I tell what KOYA, in this business every thing on peole skills. Y ou have to treat people right which was part of what I believe was lakcing here before,” new owner Nick explained.

FSUN : This was also a pupolar place for Fiji community?

NICK Is still is and we get a look bookings and I would like to continue my services for them.

FSUN: Do you have any weekday buffet?

NICK: We have only weekend reservastions for parties right now and comtemplating on adding other services soon. Nick treated us with a sample of his new manue that we enjoyed very much.

With construction background, Nick has also ready upgraded the interior of the restaurantr gaining moe space that gives Kabul Banquet Hall a truky elegant look and much more organized. Vist Kabul Banquet Hall at 24046 Hesperian (Corner of Winton) Hyaward, CA 94545 or call 510-782-6411.

KOYA MEMORIAL NIGHT

This night dedicated to the memory of the late Hon. S M KOYA is slated for early next year. Everyone is welcome share their thoughts, comments and memories. If you stories and pictures etc., you want to share you are most wel come do so. The man who fulfilled the journey crafted by one of the most learned and seasoned politicians of Fiji the late Hon. Mr. A D Patel. THE KOYA MEMORIAL NIGHT will be dedicated to celebrate the memories of tails of former leader of opposition the Late Hon. S M KOYA

A unique, exciting and professional FIJI AMERICAN IDOL SHOW is in the planning process and due to be launched early next year.

MISSION AUDITION JUDGING

TO LOCATE AND PROMOTE NEW AND BUDDING TALENTS FROM THE FIJI AMERICAN COMMUNITY.

THERE WILL BE AN EARLY AUDITION WITH $10 DINNER CHARGES. WILL BY A PANEL OF SUPERSTARS !

Call: 1-800-757-6619 NO PUBLIC JUDGING AT ALL.

FIJI AMERICAN IDOL SHOW

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KIDS PAGE

Talented, outspoken and vigorous 4 and half-year old RIYA RANI NAND focused on Indian classical dance: parents and teachers believe.

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January 2012

R

iya is already getting her classes at the Helen Turner where her instructor Dipika Jain is training her in Kathak.

Riya has won a certificate and has performed on stage with her class mates. Her proud parents Mr and Mrs Nand of Hayward, California love Riya’s dedication.Her father Bobby Nand notices her growing up as computer geeg as well. “She is very good with computor and piano at this tender age and we know she will definitely excell,” said her dad Bobby Nand a warehouse suoervisor at SENBA, USA Mrs. Nand is equally confident in her daughter’s taents and is passionate about getting her through both the regular school and culturaltraining which requires being top of things. A real estate agent, she also helps her husbandmanage a “six fleet” trucking business.

Rhema Church kids observe Christmas Assemblies of God children celebrate in Palo Alto, California

Send in pictures of your kids for our Kid’s Page at: EMAIL fijisun@gmail.com: Call toll free 1-800-757-6619

(Fiji Sun pictures by Ms. Prasad)

PHOTO GALLERY

Indians go Hulala at Sneha Restaurant on New Year’s eve with belly dancer andriana

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Kids glued to watching magic show

ASSEMBLIES OF GOD CHURCH AT PALO ALTO, CA

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January 2012