Insight

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Vol. 1 NO. 2

Celebrating Indo-Canadian Life

Thompson Okanagan Edition

December 2012

CHRISTMAS BEllS Amalgamation of cultures 3

Interview with

Caroline Grover 12 Sid & Min Sidhu 10 Careers

Social Work 13 Job Interviews 12 Life and Culture

Lohri 14 Hat Fashion 15 African Safari

20

ENTERTAINMENT

Best of 2012 17 A Century of Bollywood 16

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S2 insight MONDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2012

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HEALTH AND DEVELOPMENT Practical Nursing Community Support Social Services Assisted Living Health Care Assistant Health Unit Clerk Live-In Caregiver Pharmacy Assistant Spa Body Therapy

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EDUCATION Early Childhood Education Basic & Post Basic

TRADES Construction Electrician Levels 1, 2 & 3

FIND YOUR BEST FIT Before embarking on a sucessful career, you need to know what industry and general position you are interested in. Speaking with one of our career advisors will help you outline your career goals and what fields are best suited to you. You can even tour the campus, speak with current students, and find out where our graduates are now. A new career and life path is only a meeting away.

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Our Community

MONDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2012 insight S3

Feature Story ~ Events ~ Viewpoint ~ News

A blending of influences

Christmas season traditions Indo-Canadians on Christmas: Silent night, holy night All is calm, all is bright Round yon Virgin Mother and Child Holy Infant so tender and mild Sleep in heavenly peace Sleep in heavenly peace

T

he song was resonating in the background as Daljit Kaur sat down to reminiscence about her memories attached with Christmas. Kaur c ame to Canada 27 years ago as a young bride and settled down with her husband in Merritt.

As a young mother, one of the most important things she wanted was to teach her kids about Indian culture and tradition. But this did not mean she wanted to eliminate the idea of amalgamating into the new culture where she was going to spend the rest of her life.

“Festivals are important in the Indian culture,” said Kaur. “Back home I remember my mother celebrating each festival with equal zeal. That is the reason when my children were growing I made it a point that we celebrated both Indian and Canadian festivals with equal importance.”

In her family, it has become a tradition to celebrate Christmas. They have their unique way of celebrating.

Their home is already decorated for Diwali (Indian festival of lights which happens in the month of November).

The whole family gets together and decorates the Christmas tree, exchanges gifts and cooks a traditional

Indian meal with deserts as their Christmas dinner.

separate cities, but we have decided to meet for this one occasion.”

“When the kids were young my husband, Samardeep, would dress as Santa,” said Kaur. “But as the kids grew it became more of an occasion for a family and friends union.”

Christmas has a more festive outlook to it than New Years Eve. Year end is all about letting your hair down and partying.

The older generation has a different way of celebrating Christmas. For them the festivities always have a different meaning and depth.

“We take our yearly vacation during this time,” said Mihir Patel, from Kelowna.

Patel is a student and moved to Canada along with his parents when he was nine years old. They make their yearly trips to India during this time.

“We don’t understand much about the religious context of christmas,” said Ajay Sandhu, volunteer since about eight years.

“We generally take this trip to escape from the winter. Our destinations vary, as far as they are hot climate places. It serves dual purpose escaping the winter and a family reunion.”

“We celebrate the festival as a sign of respect. A small group of my friends take the initiative and cook sweets for the special day. We go to the temple and share the sweets with all fellow Indians. For us a festivity is all about sharing our joy with others.”

For more than a decade this has become a tradition for the group.

Preparations start about a week before the festive season. They take time out of their busy schedules to prepare all the sweets. Not only that, but sometimes special pujas are arranged at individual homes and guests are invited to the celebrations.

Canadians on Christmas:

T

winkling lights, Santa Claus, Christmas trees and gifts are the most classic markers of this time of year.

Indo-Canadians have always been welcoming to the new culture and tradition in which they are trying to amalgamate. The newer generation is more open to the idea of becoming one with their host culture. ‘Third Culture Kids,’ as they are more fondly addressed, have more of an inclination to understand their host environment.

“Christmas is important function for my friends,” said Pawan Sharma. “I am invited to my best buddy's home for the traditional Christmas and Thanksgiving dinner. It has become a custom for us.

“This year for university we are in

During the darkest season, many Canadians come together with their closest kin to eat nice meals and share one another’s company. For some families, it’s the only time of year they’re all together.

Canadians have various Christmas traditions, but most agree that gathering with family is the most important part of the holiday season.

Some celebrate Christmas as the birth of Christ, but the holiday has become less associated with religion for many people. There are also those who criticize society’s message of turning Christmas into a time for consumerism. continued on next page

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S4 insight MONDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2012

Our Community continued from page one

Insight: Celebrating Indo-Canadian Life is created by the Special Publications Division of Glacier Media Inc.

But the one thing many Canadians agree on, is that Christmas is for the kids.

Program Director: Keshav Sharma

“When the kids were little, they would get new pyjamas for Christmas, and we would... listen to the radio about Santa coming,” says Rhonda Perry, who lives in Salmon Arm and is mother of two grown children. “(The radio) would say, ‘He’s coming, he’s crossing Europe now,’ and the kids would be all excited.”

advertising sales: Keshav Sharma ksharma@kamloopsnews.ca

Aj Nijjer anijjer@kamloopsnews.ca

Managing Editor: Rajeshwari Rajimwale

The family would cozy in and read the classic Christmas tale, The Night Before Christmas.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Guneet Singh Aneesh Prabhune Larkin Schmiedl Rajeshwari Rajimwale Becky Mann All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission.

Publisher: Tim Shoults

On a night of anticipation, the kids would go to bed, only to wake up at four in the morning excited about gifts. Christmas morning marked the time to open presents, and was followed by a nice brunch.

Design & Layout: Mike Coulter

The Perry family Christmas is similar to what Eric Nielsen experienced growing up. Now 41, the Victoria resident says his Christmas traditions came from Italy via his mother.

Photography: Murray Mitchell Keith Anderson

“When I think of Christmas, I think of the first 10 to 15 years of my life,” he says.

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His family celebrated on Christmas Eve. Two parents and six children would spend the day getting everything ready and having a big dinner. Santa would come around midnight with presents. In Italian tradition, “you open the gifts (at midnight),” Nielsen said, “and then

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you play with your toys until you fall asleep.”

decided a long time ago that we’d just donate to a charity.”

Typically in North America, gifts are opened the morning of Christmas Day.

When the kids were younger, she said they’d spend so much money on Christmas that it would take time to catch up and recoup financially. That didn’t feel good, she said, so the family changed the way they do Christmas.

“For most, it's a time to spend together with those who matter most, eating nice meals and giving in whatever ways feels right.”

Wiley says the most important part of Christmas is being together. New Years is a more traditional time for the family. “(Our) tradition is to make homemade candles, and then go

outside when the year changes,” she said. The Wileys stand among the trees with lit candles and speak their wishes for the new year.

“We started that in 2000,” she said, and it has become a tradition.

Afterwards they come home, drink wine and spend time chatting together.

There are different Canadian traditions at Christmas and New Years.

For most, it’s a time to spend together with those who matter most, eating nice meals and giving in whatever ways feels right.

Nielsen said Christmas and New Years were the most important times of the year for his family growing up.

These days, he said he typically gets together with friends for a nice meal and some wine. As a single person who’s moved around a lot, “You don’t really develop customs,” he said.

Marie-Paule Wiley of Salmon Arm has found a low-key way to celebrate Christmas as well. Along with her husband and two now-grown children, “We have (our) immediate family (get together), and we make a good supper, and that’s basically it,” she says.

When her kids were younger, the family had a tree they would decorate, but “I don’t put decorations up anymore.” She said she sees decorating her home with lots of lights as a waste of energy.

And instead of giving gifts, “We

“ Best Wishes for the Holiday Season to everyone in the South Asian Community.”

Terry T erry Lake, Lak MLA Kamloops - North Thompson

www.terrylakemla.bc.ca Email: terry.lake.mla@leg.bc.ca

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Office: 618B Tranquille Road, Kamloops, BC Phone: 250-554-5413

MONDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2012 insight S5

Our Community

Clark interacts

with the Indo-Canadians in the city thank South Asian and the Sikh community for the same.”

Premier says her family first policy draws inspiration from the Sikh and South Asian community

Clark was in Kamloops before she was moving on to meet former education minister George Abbott.

By Staff Reporter

I

t was a busy Saturday morning at Spice of India Cuisine in North Kamloops as Premier Christy Clark made a point to visit Indo-Canadian community. She was visiting as part of her pre-election tour. Clark showed keen interest in meeting the community. Almost 40 people from the community were present to personally greet her.

Clark mentioned the fact that she owes the inspiration of her ‘Families First’ policy to the Sikh and South Asian community.

She said, “Family is most important factor in any society. Supportive and strong families contribute in making safe and healthy society. The Sikh faith teaches us very important lesson of strong, united family life. I wish to

During her campaign, Clark makes it her priority to meet people from different walks of life and sharing in their ideologies.

She said it was necessary for her to connect with those she may have missed otherwise. This was one reason she chose Spice as a stop on her trip.

Nevertheless, her political sense was quite present during this get-together.

She introduced fellow Liberals, Kamloops – North Thompson MLA Terry Lake and South Thompson candidate Todd Stone, while appealing the audience to support them in coming elections in May.

“During her campaign, Clark makes it her priority to meet people from different walks of life and sharing in their ideologies.”

Premier Clark and Liberals have been successful in gathering support from Indo-Canadian community at large.

Hotelier Ron Mundhi expressed his satisfaction towards progress done by Clark and Liberals in the province.

“Their free-enterprise policy has helped the province in the economic progress,” said Mundi. “Kamloops has seen a good share of development.”

Her charm has not only managed to capture votes, but respect of competitors too. Andy Sidhu from Surrey, probably the only New Democrat in the room, was quite impressed with Premier Clark and her tenure. He mentioned that she has a chance of getting re-elected as she has done impressive job in connecting people.

“She had good points, interesting ones for sure. However, NDP leader Adrian Dix will surely put up a strong fight in elections to Clark,” Sidhu said.

Nevertheless, Clark managed to impress Indo-Canadians with clever points and praise towards Sikh faith which, as she says, is tune with her policies. May elections would decide whether the tune is in sync or not!

MLA Terry Lake with Geoff Ingram & others

A Message from the Premier

Thank You Kamloops

for voting us The Best East Indian Restaurant once again!

A Message from the Premier

As Premier of the Province of British Columbia, I am pleased to extend my warmest greetings to Indo-Canadian readers of the ‘Insight’ publication.

Our province is proud of our multicult ural identity. People with different tradi tions and faiths all join together in strengthen ing the greatness of our province.

Publications such as these are wonderful opportunities to recognize the diversity of our culture and appreciate the valuable contribution the Indo-Canadian prov ides to our communities.

I would like to thank all the volunteers , contributors and sponsors involved with ‘Insight,’ for the work they do in prov iding the readership with interesting and informative articles.

BEST

Please accept my best wishes for the cont

inued success of ‘Insight’.

Sincerely,

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S6 insight MONDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2012

Our Community

EVENTS

Enjoying the

“IndianNess” of Life Arjun Singh, Kamloops City Councillor

If you have a social gathering, festival celebration or an event that can interest the community members, then email us at:

M

y wife and I got married in 2003. We were very fortunate to spend three months in India on our honeymoon. I have traveled to India many times in my life but this was my first visit as a married man and with someone who was very obviously Caucasian.

ksharma@kamloopsnews.ca And we will write about it in our special events section.

My wife has had a long-standing interest in India.

I remember that, in some of our very first conversations, she was very curious about the country and the culture. It was a big dream for me to be able to tour around India with her.

We were traveling “on the cheap”. In our backpacker-type guest houses, the heat would often awake us with a start, as the power and the air conditioner would die. In tourist areas, we would often be accosted by all manner of vendors and “loan seekers”. Securing bus or train tickets was an incredible test of both patience and good humour.

But, also, something else started to happen.

People, all over the country, were also so

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We landed in Delhi in mid September. It was still very hot outside. The noise, the dust, the great crowds of humanity were quite overwhelming.

Our friends and family were amazing and they provided a wonderful protective place to ease into the experience. But, still, we certainly struggled in the first weeks of our trip. When on my own in India or with family, if I don’t speak, I can blend in fairly well. Not so anymore.

Everyone for blocks away knew when we were on the road.

incredibly hospitable and gracious to us. The spirit of taking care of guests is so strong in India.

We had the wonderful opportunity to visit with Rotarians in many parts of India, for example, and they made double sure that we were okay and having a pleasant stay in their cities and towns.

We also started to be a lot less “Western” about how we approached our trip. We didn’t get so bothered if a train was late or if the power broke down or someone wanted us to visit their shop.

We just enjoyed whatever was happening and each other.

I think there is great value absorbing these facets of Indian life and culture into how we live our life here in Canada, enjoying life as it comes and enjoying each other.

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MONDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2012 insight S7

Our Community

Kamloops becomes witness to

The festival of lights, "Diwali"

By Guneet Singh

D

iwali or Deepawali is one of biggest festival of India celebrated around the world. It marks the starting of the Hindu new year.

This day is observed as the victory of good over evil and light over darkness.

Historically, Diwali is celebrated in honour of Lord Rama and his wife Sita returning to their kingdom of Ayodhya (a city in India) after an exile of 14 years. This day comes after a battle is fought between Lord Rama and demon king Raavana, who abducted Sita. (That is celebrated on Dushera.)

Diwali in India is celebrated over a span of five days. The various customs include renovating and cleaning houses to welcome Goddess Lakshmi (goddess of prosperity). Clay lamps (diyas), and candles are lit at every house and fireworks set off everywhere, giving Diwali its name of

"Festival of Lights." The euphoric festival calls for the exchange of gifts, sweets, and warm wishes.

"It’s an amazing way to avoid homesickness and show the uniqueness and diversity of our culture."

Kamloops had two chances to witness Diwali celebrations this year. First, Diwali celebrations were organized by the Kamloops Hindu Cultural Society at Kamloops Convention Centre. This event was attended by more then 200 guests including politicians, businessmen and students of Thompson Rivers University.

BHANGRA Performance by TRU STUDENTS

"It's a matter of high respect and joy for us," said Vikas Desai, President of the Kamloops Hindu Cultural Society.

"Also, it is equally important for our kids to know our culture and its standing in this part of the world."

After a gap of couple of years, the Kamloops Hindu Cultural Society organized something of this magnitude to celebrate Diwali.

The event included various dance performances and highlighted various cultures from across India, including Arabic belly dancing performed by a local group.

"It was amazing to feel the joy of celebrating Diwali here in Kamloops," said Dr. Sunil Malhotra, a dentist in Kamloops. "You are miles away from home and events like these makes you feel connected to our own culture. I am thankful to the organizers for this great endeavour."

The event was followed by some delicious Indian cuisine and an open dance floor that heard mixed tunes combining Bollywood, Punjabi and English, courtesy of DJ AfterShock from Vancouver.

The second event was organized by Thompson Rivers University Student Union's India club. Diwali Bash is the signature event of the club and underscores the great degree of

Hindu Temple at Summerland

celebrates Diwali T

he festival of lights ‘Diwali’ was celebrated with great vigour and excitement at the Hindu temple, Summerland. People from all across the Okanagan valley participated in the celebrations. The celebrations saw support of well-known personalities from the community.

Some of them who were present are Member of Parliament Dan Albas and city councilors from Summerland and Penticton area.

The beginnings of the celebrations were marked by traditional Diwali puja and kirtan (singing hymns), which went on for an hour long.

The gathering was addressed by the President of the

Okanagan Hindu Society, who spoke about the festival and its importance.

The whole congregation joined in the final ‘Aarti’ (hymn singing).

The major attraction of the evening was the scrumptious East-Indian delicacies savored by everyone.

During this time donations were also collected for various charitable causes. The Okanagan Hindu Society donated $1100 to the Food Bank.

In true sense it was a feeling of joy and giving at the celebrations, which is the core essence of the festival.

Dandiya performance by kamloops hindu cultural society MEMbers

cultural diversity at TRU. TRUSU India club is home to over 400 students from the Indian subcontinent, who bring diversity to campus by organizing various festivals that serve both Indian and non-Indian communities of TRU and Kamloops.

The Diwali Bash, now in its fourth year, is one of the most awaited and celebrated events at TRU, falling in the lines of Halloween and Christmas.

Over 400 guests were invited, including dignitaries of the university and community at large.

"It feels great to celebrate an event like this," said Rishu Gaind, president of the TRUSU India club. "It’s an amazing way to avoid homesickness and show the uniqueness and diversity of our culture."

The event was cherished by the whole TRU community.

It included various performances by students from around the world. The highlights were a Bollywood dance performance by Lingna Cai, a TRU graduate from China, a Hindi song sung by TK, a TRU student from Zimbabwe, and a cultural dance performance by Vaitiare Carossi Pakomio, a student from the Easter Islands.

The event included delicious food catered by chef Shyam Lal from Surrey, B.C., fireworks and an open dance floor.

Sitar and tabla players to rock TRU International Days

A

s an international student, adapting to the culture of the host country is a huge challenge. As if that was not enough, there is a constant desire to keep in touch with the roots of ones motherland.

Thompson Rivers University has seen a huge number of influx of international students over the past years.

International students need to be made felt like at home far away from home.

In support of this efforts are made to create a campus conducive for students. One step towards this is celebrating international days. This is seen as a platform that allows international students to showcase their culture on a broader spectrum.

“International Days are promoted as a creative outlet for students to showcase their culture,” said International Student Advisor, Amit Goel. “Various segments like fashion show, folk and cultural talent showcase help fellow students to understand different cultures.”

As a highlight of this years international day celebrations, the TRU India Club has organized a unique performance by duo Mohamed Assani and Shahbaz Hussain sitar/ and Tabla players.

Mohamed Assani is a celebrated sitarist with a unique sound. He plays sitar in the emotive style developed by the late Ustad Vilayat Khan, in which the sitar is made to emulate the human

voice through bending its strings. His ground-breaking work has included collaborations with acclaimed Irish contemporary composer Ian Wilson, the award-winning London-based Callino Quartet, the Black Dyke Brass Band and others. Having recently relocated to Vancouver, he is an exciting new talent on the Canadian music scene.

Shahbaz Hussain is fast emerging as one of the most promising tabla virtuosos of his generation. He has received numerous accolades for his captivating performances, including receiving the prestigious “Son of Lahore” Award from the Government of Pakistan in 2008. Shahbaz began his grooming in the art of tabla at age five with his father, the late Ustad Mumtaz Hussain – a prominent vocalist. He has mastered all the imperative traditional skills as well as the ability to project those skills to more contemporary styles. He has performed in many prestigious venues, including the Smithsonian Institute in Washington D.C., Lincoln Center in New York and London's Royal Albert & Queen Elizabeth Halls. His band, Indus, has received critical acclaim for their debut album Firefly and they continue to tour the UK & internationally.

The performance will held on February 4th, 2013 from 8 pm at the Irving K. Barber Centre, House of Learning at TRU.

S8 insight MONDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2012

Our Community

Kamloopians extend greetings to each other on the occasion of Gurpurab Guru Nanak Devji’s birthday spreads the message of brotherhood and solidarity.

By Staff Reporter

“G

uru Nanak’s birthday, which is celebrated by Sikhs around the world with continuous reading of the Sikh holy book, the Guru Granth Sahib lasting 48 hours,” said Professor Hugh Johnston, professor emeritus in history at Simon Fraser University.

“The Sikhs of many localities worldwide also celebrate Nanak ‘s birthday with a hynm-singing procession

through the streets.” He was addressing audience in Kamloops on the occasion of Guru Nanak Sahib's birthday.

their contribution to the progress of the Province and Canada. Professor Johnston wrote the first book on Kamagata Maru.

The Sikh community of Kamloops, BC celebrated Guru Nanak Sahib's birthday on November 27, 2012. The evening was marked by teachings of Sikh philosophy and to pass on the message of One God One Mankind to all the people of Kamloops.

The Major highlight of the event was the City of Kamloops having proclaimed November 28, 2012, Guru Nanak's birthday as "Know your Neighbour Day”. For the gathering each person from the community was encouraged to invite two friends or acquaintances from another faith. This was done in order to reach out to the people from the community and spread the core basic principle of Sikhism that is ‘brotherhood’.

Professor Emeritus Hugh Johnston was the keynote speaker. He spoke on Universality of Sikhism and also discussed the diversity among Sikhs, Sikh presence in British Columbia and

Gurpurab celebration event in kamloops

Kamloops Immigrant Services Welcomes Newcomers

A

ccording to the Labour Market Outlook (2010 – 2020) it is expected that the supply of workers will not meet demand by 2016 in Canada. One in five residents in Canada is foreign born according to Statistics Canada.

The need for foreign workers is growing as the Canadian population ages out of the workforce and our birth

rate is lower than our death rate.

Immigrants also need settlement and integration assistance…. so where do immigrants go for support?

The objective of our Settlement and Integration Program:

Kamloops Immigrant Services supports eligible clients to access a full range of community resources and services in order to assist them to become fully integrated into Canadian and BC communities in all sectors.

This includes economic, social and cultural integration.

In recent years the three major countries of origin for immigrants coming to Kamloops are India, China and the Philippines. We are also seeing a growing number of Europeans and Latin American newcomers.

Information and Support Services:

Our agency sees an average of 2,500 clients each year attending for services to address a variety of needs in their settlement process.

We strive to assist newcomers in settling and integrating into Canadian society. The aim is to develop a better understanding of federal and provincial programs, municipal services, local organizations and other support groups within the civil society.

The desired outcome is to support newcomers to actively participate and enrich our diverse and multi-cultural society.

We provide information, referrals or quick services to students, visitors, Provincial Nominees and Temporary Workers. We provide further support and information to landed immigrants, Permanent Residents (PR) and new Canadian citizens as well as access to additional services such as English Language Services for Adults (ELSA), Community Connection and other programs.

Our Settlement and Integration staff provides assistance in the following languages: English, French, German, Gujarati, Hindi, Japanese, Mandarin, Punjabi, Spanish, Swahili, Taiwanese and Urdu.

Information and support services:

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• Care card and SIN applications/ renewals

• Para-counseling services and support to assist clients with specific issues and needs

• Human Rights questions

• Referrals to other community services and programs • Linking services to other service providers and programs in the community • Interpreting and translation services if/when needed, and cross-cultural orientation to clients and other agencies • Labour market information • Inter agency meetings, community partnerships and other liaising activities

Documentation services: • Citizenship applications

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Orientation and referrals to address issues including: • Landlord/tenant issues • Mental Health needs • Employment Standards rules for employers and workers We work to connect our clients and their families to community services to meet their needs for shelter, food, legal aid, health and various crosscultural services for the whole family.

Whether you are an immigrant or a long time resident with a question, please contact one of our Settlement and Integration staff: Rajinder, Liza, Dominic, Min or Ann, our Community Connection coordinator, at our office anytime between 08:30 to 4:30 Monday to Friday at (778) 4706101 or toll free at 1-866 672-0855.

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MONDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2012 insight S9

Our Community

ASK AN EXPERT: Canadian Immigration NEW RULES Spousal Sponsorships

By Rhonda Williams B.A. (Hons.), M.A., RCIC

F

amily reunification is one of the cornerstones of Canada’s immigration program. The hallmark of the program is sponsorship of family members by a permanent resident of Canada who is also residing in Canada or by a Canadian citizen. Unfortunately, the program has been abused over the past several years and the Government of Canada has been pressured to take action to prevent further abuse of the program.

Those who cheat their way into

Canada now risk losing their permanent resident status and their ability to sponsor other family members in the future.

Two new rules were announced by Citizenship and Immigration in 2012.

• A 5 year restriction on sponsorship (announced March 2, 2102) • This means that a permanent resident who was sponsored as a spouse or common law partner cannot become a sponsor of a spouse themselves until they have been a permanent resident in Canada for at least 5 years.

• The two year legitimate relationship regulation (announced October 26the, 2012) • This rule applies to spouses and partners who have been in a relationship for two years or less, and who have no children in common with their sponsor at the time the sponsorship application is submitted.

• Once in Canada the sponsored person will receive conditional permanent residence. They must live with their sponsor in a legitimate relationship for two years from the day they receive their permanent resident status in Canada, or face the possibility of having their permanent resident status revoked.

• Exceptions will be made for sponsored spouses or partners suffering from abuse or neglect.

The abuse or neglect could be

perpetrated by the sponsor or a person related to the sponsor, whether or not the abuser is living in the same household or not during the conditional period.

• An exception would also apply in the event of the death of the sponsor during the conditional period.

“There are countless cases of marriage fraud across the country,” said Immigration Minister Jason Kenney recently. “I have consulted widely with Canadians, and especially with victims of marriage fraud, who have told me clearly that we must take action to stop this abuse of our immigration system.

Sometimes the sponsor in Canada is being duped and sometimes it's a commercial transaction. Implementing a two-year conditional permanent residence period will help deter marriage fraud, prevent the callous victimization of innocent Canadians and help us put an end to these scams.”

Several other countries have similar conditions for spousal applications and it is expected that the new rules will deter marriage fraud. While Canada welcomes genuine applications from spouses and partners, Canadians do not want scammers taking advantage of their generous welcome.

Rhonda Williams is a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant. She has worked as an immigration consultant since 1996. Prior to that time, Rhonda worked as a Canadian Visa Officer in India and Thailand for several years. Rhonda also teaches in the UBC Certificate in Immigration program and is on the Board of Directors of the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council. She is a frequent guest speaker on immigration across the country.

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Y our journey has brought you here and we welcome you!

Providing immigrants, refugees, new Canadians and visible minorities with the following information: • Banking and Budgets • Housing • Health (Physical and Mental) • Community Supports Example: Family Resource Center, YMCA, Recreation Centers • Connections to Federal and Provincial Programs and Services such as: Child Tax Benefits, s, Medical Service Plan and Income Assistance • Adjustment to life in Canada; Rights and Responsibilities • Guide through the Education System • Stress Support (Ie: Culture shock) • Permanent residency renewal and citizenship preparation Community Connections • Connecting volunteer community members with English Language Services for Adults ELSA immigrants for mentorship, organized community Providing free English classes for eligible adult Canadians; activities and events focusing on speaking, reading, writing and listening skills.

• Beginner to Intermediate classes Child-minding • Helpful class themes address: housing, banking, work, • Complimentary child care for pre-registered children of health, education, transportation, Canadian Culture and parents enrolled in our programs. much more • Computer assistance and training • Make new friends, contacts and connect with the community y

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These programs are made possible through funding from the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia.

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Some of the languages that our staff speaks are: French, Punjabi, Mandarin, Taiwanese, Japanese, Spanish, Afrikaans, Sinhala, Tamil, Hindi, Tagalog, and English.

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Enterprise S10 insight MONDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2012

Business ~ Profiles ~ Columns

Sidhu family of vernon

By Rajeshwari Rajimwale

F

arming as a profession in India plays a significant role. Today, the country ranks second in the world in farm output. Apart from the economic reason, as a profession farming is honoured in India.

That's why, when a determined Ajit Sidhu made a choice to settle down in Vernon, B.C., he focused on using his knowledge and expertise in farming to make his living. He had a powerful example of his past four generations being actively involved in agriculture and generating their living solely from their farm produce.

The Sidhu family interest in farming did not end with Ajit’s generation. His son and daughter-in-law, Sid and Min Sidhu, showed their support and managed to take their family business to a new level. Sid has a degree in chemical engineering and an honours B.Sc. in biotechnology. Despite his education, he felt proud to help in his family business.

“The decision to move to Canada was made after I came to visit my aunt in Kelowna and fell in love with the country,” said Min. “We realized that there was ample opportunity here for anyone that wanted to work hard and make a wonderful life for themselves.”

The Sidhus now produce fine quality fruits and vegetables, such as cherries which are marketed internationally to Europe and China, several varieties of peaches, nectarines, Bartlett pears, D’Anjou pears, Italian prune plums, grapes, melons and a number of different vegetables they sell locally.

“Farming is a difficult business,” said Sidhu. “You are not solely relying on your own ability as a good farmer or

as a good businessperson to succeed; rather you are at the mercy of Mother Nature and she definitely has a mind of her own.”

The hard work of the Sidhus and their support staff was surely awaiting rewards. One of the country’s largest retail operators, Loblaw Foods, signed a contract with the Sidhu family to purchase their entire apple crop.

Apples from the Sidhus' farms are now sold as far as Alberta, Saskatchewan, and across B.C. Their produce has won numerous recognition awards over the years for its quality and excellence.

Sidhus believe in challenging themselves. After one achievement it was time for another feather in the cap. In 2004 the family purchased Bella Vista Winery in Vernon. When they purchased the winery it was in bad shape. They managed to save what they could, and extensive renovations were conducted on the building and landscaping.

“You are not solely relying on your own ability as a good farmer or as a good businessperson to succeed; rather you are at the mercy of Mother Nature and she definitely has a mind of her own.”

“The winery project is a large project,” said Sidhu. “It consists of a sixbedroom boutique hotel, special events hall, commercial kitchen and

Bella vista winery in VERNON

SID & MIN SIDHU

beautiful vineyards and grounds. We are now thankfully nearing completion of the project and hope to be completely up and ready by the summer of 2013.”

When running major businesses, history shows that family support is the biggest push. For the Sidhus this has never been a problem for the generations that have been involved in family farming.

Sid and Min have three young daughters, Simraj, Jairaj and Dilan.

The three are actively involved in the family business despite their very young age. Some of the activities they're involved in are running the fruit stand, attending farmers’ markets and working the packing line - all of which they do with enthusiasm and excitement.

When asked how they educate their children about the Indian culture and tradition, Min replies, “It isn’t easy! Sid and I are fortunate enough to live with

Sid’s parents. They are definitely the balance in culture for our children.

I was also fortunate enough to start the Vernon Punjabi Heritage Society in Vernon under which, amongst other things, I started Bhangra classes and Punjabi classes for the children of the community.”

Although their businesses keep both Sid and Min busy, they are also very committed and integral members of the community. After serving for 12 years on the British Columbia Agricultural Land Commission, Sid recently stepped down as commissioner and chair. Sid has also sat on several committees and organizations throughout the years, such as the Anti Racism Board, Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce and the North Okanagan Sikh Cultural Society. She's also volunteered many hours to different non-profit organizations over the years.

Min has volunteered her services to a number of organizations such as the Okanagan Anti Racism Committee, the Vernon Transition House Board, for which she served as director, the Multicultural Society of Vernon, for which she served as president, and the Immigrant Services Board of Vernon.

Min is also actively involved with the East Meets West Orphanage Foundation, which has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars towards cancer research. Acting on her strong ties to her Punjabi heritage, and recognizing the growing need for Punjabi cultural teachings, in the hopes of creating unity and harmony amongst all community groups in Vernon, Min founded the evergrowing Vernon Punjabi Heritage Society of which she is now the honorary chair. Min also has full-time employment outside the family business: she's served as executive

assistant to Dr. April Sanders, MLA, Deputy Caucus Chair, Official Opposition to Education, the Hon. Tom Christensen, Minister of Education, Minister of Children & Family Development and Minister of Aboriginal Relations; and she is currently serving as executive assistant to Mr. Eric Foster, MLA and Caucus Whip. In recognition of her contributions Min was recently named Vernon’s Woman of the Year 2011.

“All and any experiences Sid and I have had throughout the years being involved with different organizations and boards have ultimately taught us lots and given us a vast amount of experience that we are very grateful for,” said Sidhu. “We were so impressed with the level of everyone’s commitment and passion towards their community and country and it has definitely rubbed off onto us ! We love our community and are proud to be a small part of it.”

It always takes time to settle down in a new country and culture. Min Sidhu has also had her share of challenges adjusting within Canada.“My biggest challenge once I got here was the culture shock of moving from London, a very busy bustling city that never closes, to a small town like Vernon where everything shut down at 9.30 p.m.” said Sidhu. “It took about two years to really settle in, make new friends and adjust to the small town life.”

One piece of advice the Sidhus would like to give newly-immigrating Indians: “We would encourage all newcomers to get involved in their communities, whether it be volunteering, joining clubs or simply by getting to know your neighbours.

We feel it is very important to embrace your new home wholeheartedly with open arms.”

MONDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2012 insight S11

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S12 insight MONDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2012

Enterprise

BUSINESS PROFILE:

CAROLINE GROVER

By Rajeshwari Rajimwale

P

romoting business in the Okanagan region has been the priority of both government and businesses. Most people who move to the region come for a better quality of life and a improved business prospects.

Therefore, it has always been important that to have business stalwarts with foresight for development have been around.

Caroline Grover, chief executive officer (CEO) of the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce is one such person.

The Kelowna chamber is the second largest in B. C. The opinions of its members are highly valued, and considered to be influential in bringing issues to light and seeing changes in laws and regulations to support the interests of business.

Grover is the voice of business and the primary contact person for the greater Kelowna region vis-a-vis all governments, representing over 1200 companies.

Her solid background in economic development and business development assists her in linking people to further their business development goals.

“I am an advisor, a mentor, a business resource, a central clearing house for information, a cheerleader, a marketer, a community promoter and a communicator,” said Grover. “My role in the chamber is to provide opportunities for companies to operate and profit in a good business environment. We can be champions of projects and are a key source of accurate business data. Our board has business leaders with extensive personal networks who voluntarily give of their skills and acumen in assisting our membership.”

organizations combined with nineteen years of economic development experience.”

She has a certificate in retail management from St. Lawrence College in Cornwall Ont. and a certificate in economic development from the University of Waterloo, Waterloo Ontario.

Her achievements include four Alberta Economic Development marketing awards and one national award in 2010.

Grover was also the executive director for the Economic Development Alliance of Southeast Alberta from 2009 to 2011.

Grover has spent most her life in Kamloops and Salmon Arm. This is the reason she feels so connected with the region and is concerned for its development.

“I offer a background in community economic development, downtown revitalization strategies and business mentoring,” said Grover. “I have managed four non-profit membership

“My goal is to play a role in the growth of successful Kelowna companies through the Chamber of Commerce” said Grover. “And live a life that is

Caroline Grover CEO, KELOWNA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

fun, productive and has laughter in each day.”

Job Interview TIPS: AFTER THE INTERVIEW

Y

ou have just finished a job interview. Thoughts begin swirling around in your head about what has just transpired.

Perhaps you have lost interest in the position, or you are undecided. Maybe the process has taken too long. Maybe it is your dream job.

Whatever you are feeling about the experience, remember that the process isn't finished yet. Employers can be quick to make a decision or it may be a lengthy process depending on the people in the company involved. As many as four others aside from you may be vying for the position. You do want your reputation to be intact or, preferably, enhanced by this whole experience. Here's what we suggest you do:

th of your rviewed bo te in facility ve a h I Kamloops r u o r fo s nd I have candidate rsonnel, a ith e P l e xc E through ressed w s very imp e and a w I y a s to rvic . Excel’s se r needs, as them both ou to n o ttenti personal a bility to quickly ur a s on short well as yo candidate nd t fi t h g ri identify sistent a lways con notice, is a iated. rec hugely app rincipal, hreiner, P - Mike Sc illac vrolet Cad Smith Che

1. Send a polite email or a thoughtful

thank you note (we still enjoy receiving these) saying either “Thank you for the opportunity of meeting with you to discuss where my skills and abilities may be of value to your firm−I certainly enjoyed our conversations and would be happy to be apart of your team.” Another email could explain that your priorities have changed and after thoughtful consideration, you have decided

against accepting the position but that you are thank you for their time and consideration.

2. Do not be discouraged when you have not heard back from the employer. If two or three weeks have passed and you haven’t heard anything, a quick email or a phone call is a great idea, as it gives the impression that you are still interested in the position.

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MONDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2012 insight S13

Enterprise

Careers in

SOCIAL WORK

By Larkin Schmiedl

I

t may not seem like it's one of the ThompsonOkanagan's fastest-growing sectors, but social work is an up-and-coming career choice in B.C., and pays an aboveaverage salary to boot.

The Skilled Immigrant Infocentre, based out of Vancouver, says according to the Career Cruising database, “Entry-level salaries for social workers range from about $35,000 to $45,000 a year.”

Being a social worker means helping other people. Social workers help individuals, families, groups and communities improve their quality of life and reach their potential.

Social workers are advocates, counsellors, policy analysts, administrators, activists, facilitators, mediators, organizers and researchers,

says the B.C. Association of Social Workers website. According to the organization, “The social work profession is based on a commitment to social justice, equity, respect for diversity and critical thinking.”

Social workers advocate for disenfranchised members of society, and work toward the elimination of structural inequalities, so everyone has more equal access to resources.

WorkBC says “Social workers must be empathetic, understanding and be able to work in sometimes difficult situations.”

A social worker may find themselves in child welfare settings, in family service agencies, in hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, mental health organizations, community care facilities, addiction programs, treatment centres, employee assistance programs, community living agencies and other similar organizations.

Some social workers do community organizing, and others work in government. Still others do research in universities.

Self-employment work on contract is also an option.

While the field offers the chance to be deeply personally fulfilled by one's work, it's not without its hazards.

Because social workers continually help people deal with problems, the work can be emotionally draining and even traumatizing. After working in the field for years, some people burn out. “Understaffing and large caseloads add to the pressure in some agencies,” says the Skilled Immigrant Infocentre.

The field is predominated by women.

But in the tradeoff, most social workers get above average job stability, according to WorkBC, and excellent job opportunities. The regional labour market outlook from WorkBC says there's expected to be a 1.7 per cent increase in social work jobs in the Thompson Okanagan from 2010 to 2020. It's considered one of the highest expected growth occupations in the region.

After a few years' experience, someone with a degree in social work will typically make $42,000 to $53,000 a year, according to the Career Cruising database. Social workers with master's

Tranquille Road

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degrees tend to earn higher-range salaries, and senior-level social workers can earn over $70,000 a year.

diploma programs that can be applied toward a social work degree.

University of British Columbia, Vancouver

Job competition is most intense in cities, where the demand for services is often highest. WorkBC says opportunities in rural areas are better, since it's often more difficult to attract and retain qualified staff there.

Offers BSW, MSW and PhD programs in social work.

UBC Okanagan, Kelowna Offers a MSW, and is in process of cancelling its previously-offered BSW program.

Social work is one of 29 eligible occupations under the Federal Skilled Worker program, which means being a social worker can make immigration to Canada easier.

University of the Fraser Valley, Mission Offers MSW and BSW programs, with the option to specialize in child welfare. It also offers extended studies into First Nations issues.

It's not a type of work that's sensitive to overall economic conditions, and it's not seasonal. Social work is typically affected by government spending priorities however, since funding for many social organizations comes from the government.

University of Northern B.C., Prince George

A bachelor's of social work (BSW) or a master's degree in social work (MSW) is required to practise the profession in Canada, according to the B.C. Association of Social Workers. Below is a list of schools in B.C. that offer these programs.

Nicola Valley Institute of Technology, Merritt Its BSW degree program is the only

Aboriginal-centred BSW program in B.C. and only one of three across Canada. The degree is conferred jointly with Thompson Rivers University.

Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops

Offers BSW and MSW programs. The university says it, “is committed to a program of studies that is informed by a central concern for human rights, personal empowerment, community change and social justice. It has as its foundation an analysis of power in relation to class, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age and abilities.”

University of Victoria, Victoria Offers both BSW and MSW programs, with options to specialize in child welfare, Indigenous issues, or a combination of the two. Its website asks, “What’s your vision of social justice?”

Douglas College in New Westminster offers a community social service work diploma, and Langara College in Vancouver offers a social service worker certificate and diploma.

Offers a BSW and various certificate and

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Life & Culture S14 insight MONDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2012

Entertainment ~ Food ~ Fashion ~ Celebrations ~ Health & Wellness

Lohri:

CELEBRATING PUNJABI STYLE

By Guneet Singh

“Let purity come, dirt depart Dirt be uprooted and its roots cast in the fire.”

H

ow often have you heard “Sundar Munderiye ho!” or “Dhulla Bhatti waala ho!”? Yes the stage is set after all, it’s Lohri celebrations. This day calls for an end to freezing winters and tries to bring bright sunny days in Spring for India.

Lohri is traditionally the festival of vivacious Punjabis. Originally from the state of Punjab, land of five rivers and the meal ticket of India, this day is seen as a major day of brotherhood and celebrations. The Punjabi farmer marks this day as his or her new financial year.

Anywhere in the world which has the presence of Punjabi culture will witness the enthusiasm of the festival of Lohri.

“It’s all about the excitement,” said Ravi Verma, who works in a motel in Vernon. He feels overjoyed with the excitement attached to this day.

“With the bonfire, you feel the positive vibes and prosperity which is awaited by everyone.”

Lohri is equally important for everyone, but especially so for newlywed brides and for infants, for whom it is their first Lohri.

The celebrations primarily start after the sun sets with a bonfire. Friends and family gather around the fire and start off with parikrama (circle around), offering a small prayer. The Prasad (food which is first offered to God) here includes til (sesame seeds), gachchak (butter crunch candy), crystal sugar, gur (jaggery), moongphali (peanuts) and phuliya or popcorn. Lohri is then distributed at night during the festival. Later these food items are thrown into the fire.

With each item tossed, the participants chant along, “til sade paap sade, papiyaan di rann mare” (the more these til burn, the more my bad deeds

are forgiven), or “aadar aaye diladder jaaye” (may honour come and poverty vanish). Subsequently, various Lohri songs and bhangra (Punjabi folk dance) is performed until the fire dies out.

“I haven’t seen this kind ebullience in my entire life. It feels so majestic, after all I am the show stopper,” laughs Manpreet Khanna, for whom this is her first Lohri, the day she got married.

Lohri in earlier times was celebrated a different way. The festival was more prevalent in villages and small towns where a special activity was performed. Traditionally, young boys and bachelors would knock at every home in their village and ask for Lohri, which was mainly money. They would knock especially at homes of newlymarried brides or infants. The response was not bad, and people would send these boys with lots of stuff in return for getting wishes.

“No matter what you heard of Lohri, it is a festival of bonhomie, fun, dance, food and a quest for wealth, forgiveness, and paying all respect to the fire element of nature,” said Dr. Maninder Singh, a known figure in Punjabi literature.

Lohri Celebration - Punjabi Style

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MONDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2012 insight S15

Life & Culture

Hat TRENDS WINTER 2013

How to guide:

By Rajeshwari Rajimwale

H

ats are synonymous with grace and class. Over the time this fashion accessory has changed shapes following cultural and fashion milestones. It has never vanished as an important fashion accessory.

Hats made a grand entry in recent royal weddings as part of the dress code.

This season again hats are making their presence felt.

Fur Hats:

Sounds clichéd for the winter, but it’s a luxurious and classy and is suitable for all age groups. Designers this season have predicted that this style will be largely popular in Fall/Winter 2012/2013.

Fur hats are available this season in dark and neutral tones that are close to natural fur shades. Alternatively, bright and eccentric hues are available and designed to attract attention. The styles that dominated the season are huge hats like in Marc Jacobs’ Fall/ Winter 2012/ 2013 range or the smaller elegant Temperley London’s collection

of the century, many other styles had become prevalent such as wide brims with flat crowns, the flower pot and the toque. Feathers and veils abounded.

Fedora Hats:

Fur hats are best known for their versatility. You don’t have to travel to extreme cold weather to don one. Your fur collection can be teamed up with leather pants, jeans, skirts or prints, and with almost any style of clothing and footwear.

Cowboy Hats:

The boyish look is not always welcomed by fashionistas. However, cowboy boots and shirts have found place in wardrobes. This season get ready to see a style change with cowboy hats as a winter accessory.

How to guide:

Generally worn with cropped jackets and gloves, outfits with zippers are also welcome. Keep the look for a road trip or for special music festivals.

Cloche hats

Designed for men, fedora hats have now become more of an unisex accessory.

How to guide:

Fedora hats can be teamed up with almost all types of clothing. They can be casual as well as formal.

History and origin of hats:

Wearing headgear and covering ones head once had significance for religious purposes. As time progressed hats came to signify status and authority.

As a fashion accessory, they play a significant role. An old adage explains “If you want to get ahead and get noticed, then get a hat.”

Women from early on were always supposed to cover their heads with veils, kerchiefs, hoods and caps.

“If you want to get ahead and get noticed, then get a hat.”

In the 16th century women’s hats were inspired by male courtiers to become a fashion statement. (--this sentence is not entirely clear. What is a male courtier and how did it inspire them?)

It's interesting to know that the word ‘milliner’, a term used to mean a women’s hat maker, was first recorded in 1529. The products for which Milan and the northern Italian regions were well known, i.e. ribbons, gloves and straws, were imported by haberdashers, called 'millaners.' The word was derived from there.

These are known as more feminine hats. They say history repeats itself. So it is with fashion. This style comes back from the 1920s. It signifies elegance and sophistication our fashion era lacks.

How to guide:

Team up cloche hats with more feminine dresses, skirts, suits and trench coats.

During the nineteenth century women’s hat fashion was predominated by bonnets. By the end

Early 20th century hats were gigantic and adorned with flowers, feathers, ribbons and tulle. After World War 1, there was such an explosion of styles and materials that many women had to rely on the advice of milliners.

During the 1930s to 1950s, New York became the world's leading millinery city, with department stores such as Sacs Fifth Avenue, Henri Bendel and Bergdorf Goodman.

The advent of ready-to-wear clothing however started robbing the milliners of their crucial part in the world of fashion. Also, during the war many women, who had never worked before, became employed. They had no time or energy to spend on fashion garments. In the 1980's and '90s there was a restoration of interest in women's millinery.

This was highly inspired by public figures such as the late Princess of Wales' enthusiasm for hats.

Many new hat designers emerged because of this, making the '90s an innovative and diverse period for hats.

Since their invention, hats have come and gone as status symbols, uniforms and fashion statements, as well as playing a role as functional, sports and protective.

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S16 insight MONDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2012

Life & Culture

35mm CELEBRATES a Century: The Making of Indian cinema Glimpse of Indian cinema over the past 100 years

By Rajeshwari Rajimwale

I

ndians just love entertainment. For us two of the most entertaining activities are politics and cinema. They have been entertaining and engaging audiences for years.

The year 2013 will see a milestone for the Indian cinema as it enters into its 100th year.

The Union Information and Broadcasting Ministry has to celebrate the this occasion has a threetier strategy.

The celebrations highlights will be a museum showcasing the journey of Indian cinema, a National Film Commission and digitalisation of yesteryears' Indian movies will be in place and building on the Films Division campus to showcase current and future of Indian cinema. A budget of Rs 1,200 crore has been has been sanctioned for the same.

As every Indian gets ready to celebrate this phenomenon, it is more of a national pride. Over the years Indian films have made their presence felt in global film festivals like Cannes and Oscar, and Bollywood films have been reviewed in international journals and magazines.

Advent of Cinema in India:

During the British rule, India saw screenings of the Lumière moving pictures in 1896. This saw the emergence of Indian filmmakers.

Hiralal Sen was the first short filmmaker. He made ‘The Flower of Persia’ in 1898.

Dadasaheb Phalke made India’s first feature film named ‘Raja Harishchandra’ and it was screened on 18th May, 1913. He is known as the father of Indian cinema and during his career he made 95 full-lengthed and 26 short films.

The 20th Century saw Indian cinema growing in popularity. There was an equal enthusiasm amongst filmmakers to supply for this growing demand. At a minimum cost these movies were made available to the audiences.

Filmmakers focused on culture, society and lifestyle as topics for most of the movies.

During the 1920s, 27 films were made.

A decade later this was about 200-300 per year.

Arrival of talkies:

Around the same time the first Indian movie with sounds was made ‘Alam Ara’, India’s first ever talkie was released in 1931. Major attraction in the movie was signing and dance sequences. This has become the trademark of Bollwood movies.

Under colonial rule, the British government sought to use the burgeoning strength of India’s cinema industry to its advantage. One such aspect of this was in the launch of the Indian Cinematograph Enquiry Committee, the aim of which was to promote British cinema over and above its Hollywood counterpart. Chaired by a group of three Brits and three Indians, the ICC failed in its role as it instead lent its support to comparatively fledgling Indian cinema. British control also led to censorship of the content of some films, with the 1940 film named Wrath was banned for its depiction of Indian characters in leadership roles.

1947 was an important year in both the history of India as a nation and of cinema. This was the year of Indian independence along with the separation of the region now known as Pakistan, two major events which dominated the themes of many subsequent films.

Golden Era of Indian cinema

The post-independence era was known as the golden age of Indian cinema. During this period Indian films were gaining popularity at home turf and abroad.

‘Neecha Nagar’ by Chetan Anand won the first ever award at the Cannes Film Festival.

This period saw the emergence of Bollywood’s greatest actor and director Raj Kapoor. He was also the founder of RK Films Studio. He drew inspiration for his work from Charlie Chaplin, Frank Capra and Orson Welles. He was described as the Victor Hugo of Indian cinema.

Pather Panchali(1955) directed by Satyajit Ray was among the earliest Indian films to have received global recognition (it got 11 international awards). Pather Panchali was path breaking and it was awarded “Best Human Document award at Cannes 1956 and in 1958 it was awarded Best Film at Vancouver Film festival.

Advent of modern era of Indian cinema:

The great 70s (and 80s) saw the commercialization of Indian cinema.

This decade gave the biggest stars and stalwarts which became identity of our cinema. Actors like Amitabh Bachchan, Rajesh Khanna and films like Sholay(1975), Aradhna (1969), Silsila(1981) and Directors like Yash Chopra, Sippy, Manmohan Desai and formula films, Basu Chatterjee, Hrishikesh Mukherjee and films relating to common man. ) This era also saw the emergence of regional cinema. Within itself, Indian cinema represents 14 different regional groups. Each regional industry is prominent on its own in the respective region; however, Indian cinema sphere is largely looked upon as “Bollywood”. Across the globe, the identity of Indian cinema is related to the mainstream Hindi film industry.

Unfortunately even today, regional cinema does not get as much importance as it deserves. Not many of us are aware that there is a huge talent coming from these movies. (A mainstream Hindi film)‘Kahaani’ showed the audiences that talented actors are emerging from regional

cinema and soon gaining prominence. The broader term of Bollywood is evolving to be making the regional movies (with subtitles) available for viewers of any language or region in multiplexes.

Indian cinema has grown in popularity and size over the years.

Apart from box office hits at home turf, there has been a great demand for Indian cinema across the globe. Revenues generated globally account to almost 12 per cent and increasing.

Current Scenario:

After some stagnant 90s, our industry stepped into new millennium with great confidence. Aamir Khan’s maiden production Lagaan came inches close to winning an Oscar. It may not have won the award but it started a revolution with regards to our filmmaking techniques. During last decade, we have seen youth coming up and trying innovative ideas in films. Young and passionate directors like Farhan Akhtar, Anurag Kashyap, Imtiaz Ali are achieving that perfect balance of popular film and art film, satisfying large number of audience. A trend has emerged, reducing the total runtime of our films from three and half hours to two hours.

These years have been remarkable for our cinema in many regards. Our regional cinema industries are receiving a boost due to these young filmmakers and nurtured local talent.

They are no less in conquering world cinema scene.

During last decade or so, we have truly gone international. Aishwarya RaiBachchan and Shah Rukh Khan are most talked about celebrities, even in the west; leaving Hollywood stars behind by a mile! Singers like Akon are singing song for our films; Directors like Brett Ratner are presenting films like ‘Kite’ to international markets while Hollywood is humming A.R.Rahman.

We are sending more and more films to Cannes, Berlin, Toronto and Venice film festivals every year.

Bollywood Facts • The longest kissing scene in Bollywood was in the film Karma, release in 1926. It was a silent film. The scene was filmed on Himanshu Rai and Devika Rani and was about a four minute long scene. This scene beat the kissing sequence between Vinod Khanna and Madhuri Dixit in Dayavan (1989) in duration.

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• On 1st January, 1900 one more silent movie was released in Mumbai. The film featured Fatima, a dancer.

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• • • •

• The first movie ever to be release in India was on 8th July, 1897 at Watson Hotel, Mumbai. It was produced by Leiumour Bros. The movie had only six scenes and was for about 10 minutes.

• Pundalik was the first mythological film. It was released on 18th May, 1912.

• 1897 to 1930 was marked as the era of silent cinema. During this period about 1200 films were released.

• Shirin Farhad released on 30th, May, 1931 had 18 songs and Indra Sabha released in 1932 had 69 songs in it.

• The first talking film was Alam Ara. The movie was produced by Imperial Movie Tone.

Released on 14th March, 1931 it starred Prithviraj Kapoor (father of late Raj Kapoor), Zubeida, Master Vithal, Zillo and Wazir Mohd.

Khan. The film had seven songs and the music director was Firozeshah M. Mistri.

• First Indian producer was H S Bhatwdekar.

• First color film was Kissan Kanhaiya produced

by Imperial Film Company.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2012 insight S17

Life & Culture

BOLLYWOOD

BEST MOMENTS OF 2012

By Aneesh Prabhune

A

s the year comes to an end, we look forward to the new year and wish for the best things to come our way!

At the same time, let’s refresh our memories and look back at the best moments of Bollywood in 2012!

1. Agneepath

The year started with this muchawaited remake of the '90s classic, with everyone eager to experience a new, hunky ‘Vijay Deenanath Chauhan’ of Hrithik Roshan. It was the first hit of the season with some amazing performances by Hrithik and Sanjay Dutt, and a whistling number – ChikniChameli featuring Katrina Kaif.

2. Paan Singh Tomar

Just like Mumbai’s underworld, our cinema is attracted to Chambal valley dacoits. This gritty true story of a national athlete turned dacoit was a fantastic depiction of a tragedy. A low budget film became a hit, as it was loved by audiences and critics alike!

A woman-centric thriller stood out in every aspect of the filmmaking. Vidya Balan’s amazing performance as a pregnant woman searching for her

4. Vicky Donor

Making a film on the ‘taboo’ topic of sperm donation is not an easy task, especially when everyone involved in the film is a newcomer. John Abraham produced his first production and shouldered responsibility for director Shoojit Sircar and debutant actor Ayushmann. The subject was a tricky one but because of the good writing it never went awkward or below the belt.

A surprising hit, this film presented some fresh faces - who could act, too!

5. Rowdy Rathore

Following the formula of his earlier hit Wanted, Prabhu Deva had Akshay Kumar returning to his action hero image. In just two weeks following its release, Rowdy Rathore collected about 110 crores in the domestic market. The film assured that formula and ‘masala’ films are here to stay, and can work well.

6. Gangs of Wasseypur parts 1 and 2

Anurag Kashyap’s grand double bill aimed at becoming what The

7. Ek Tha Tiger

Salman Khan once again proved that he is the most bankable actor in the industry right now. An action-packed romantic tale brought Yash Raj production and Salman Khan together after ages. Tiger is the highest-grossing film of the year so far, crossing the mark of 300 crores of worldwide collection!

8. Barfi

This film is a special one in many ways. Stunning visuals and compelling storytelling was supported by the everamazing Ranbeer Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra and newbie Ilena D’Cruz.

Director Anurag Basu brings European-style filmmaking to us and it made Barfi! not only a successful film but an official entry from India to the Oscar awards.

9. Jab Tak Hai Jaan

What else does a Hindi film lover need when he has Yash Chopra directing Shah Rukh Khan with music and lyrics by A.R. Rahman and Gulzar. It is like a dream of Indian romantic films come true. Unfortunately, Yash Chopra passed away before the film hit screens. However, despite the

like another Rowdy Rathore style film for Akki. We can hope it entertains us and gives Akki another hit this year.

mixed reactions everywhere, the film managed to reach the 100 crore mark within six days of its release. Yash Chopra’s last film as director marked his return to the director’s chair after eight years, after his hit outing with Veer-Zaara.

10. Talaash

2. Dabangg 2

Aamir Khan, following his golden rule of doing one film a year, returns to the big screen after last year’s arty ‘Dhobi Ghat’. Having names like Aamir, Kareena Kapoor and Rani Mukerjee in its cast, this suspense thrillerhas attracted lot of publicity. By the time you read this, the film will be making news with its collection.

After a smashing hit Dabangg almost two years ago, this is Salman’s second outing as Inspector Chulbul Pandey.

This film is probably the most anticipated movie of 2012 and fittingly, it keeps us waiting until the very end of the year. One can only be patient until its release and hope that it gives us a film worthy of the wait.

So after a round up of this year, we wish you a happy New Year and some great film viewing!

These are a few of the newsmakers that have seen screens across the globe.

Nevertheless, two films wait to end this year with a big bang of action and comedy!

1. Khiladi 786

Akshay Kumar goes back to his Khiladi roots after ages. For a change, Himesh Reshammiya has written this film, apart from scoring music, producing it and playing a small part in it too! From the trailers, it looks

Still from movie Barfi

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3. Kahani

husband was supported by a brilliant script, twists and turns, and an experiment with music by VishalShekhar, with all songs featured in the background only. Sujoy Ghosh, the director, brought powerful thrillers back into fashion.

Godfather is to Hollywood cinema. A raw, violent, emotional tale of revenge spanning over three generations and 60 years glued everyone to their seats.

Featured in the Cannes festival, this film had, apart from good direction and fantastic dialogues; mind blowing music by Sneha Khanwalkar; making it a hit in two parts.

S18 insight MONDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2012

Life & Culture

HOT YOGA

creating ripples across the okanagan

By Becky Mann

W

hat do the words halfmoon, eagle, and camel have in common? They're all poses of hot yoga, a craze that's heating up in the ThompsonOkanagan. Meaning union in Sanskrit, an ancient Indo-Aryan language, yoga combines the mind, body and spirit.

“Yoga is one of the fastest growing industries (in the past five years),” says Adam Kopeck, owner of and instructor for the Bikram Yoga Vernon studio in Vernon, B.C.

“There is definitely a cross-section of people who are in the room at any one time,” says Demsey.

A former mechanic, Kopeck has come to realize the health benefits of hot yoga and communicates these benefits to his students.

Both studios in Vernon and Kamloops have a clientele made-up of men and women of a wide-variety of ages.

Joy Demsey, an instructor at Kamloops Hot Yoga in Kamloops, B.C., is very familiar with the advantages of practicing yoga. With more than 20 years experience, Demsey has taught a variety of people in the hot room.

Erin Connelly-Reed is new to hot yoga and has been practicing off and on for the past six months at Kamloops Hot Yoga.

“As a rugby player I find my muscles get very tight and sore from training and playing and I have found that yoga works best to relieve my pain without the need of medication or expensive therapy treatments,” says

The hot room is a space where yoga is practised at an optimal temperature and humidity—usually around 40 C. The number of students in the room depends on the size of the space.

Yoga is just not exercises Y

oga postures are very different from ordinary exercise. It is a mistake even to call the postures exercises, in the usual sense of the word. Their purpose is not to strengthen the muscles. They emphasise relaxation quite as much as they do tension. Unlike most physical exercises, they do not excite; rather, they eliminate excitement from the system.

An important difference between these postures and other systems of exercise is that in yoga practice one must never strain. Relax, never force yourself, into the prescribed positions.

Stretch only slightly, if at all, beyond

the point of comfort. You will be astonished to see how many poses you can accomplish by progressively deeper relaxation.

The yogi should act always from a centre of poise and calmness, of mental and physical relaxation. When I first met my guru, Paramhansa Yogananda, he told me that, while sitting in a chair giving interviews, he was not even aware of his body below the chest. To be able so completely to relax the body when not using it, it is necessary first to be in full control of it; to be able at will to be fully conscious of every muscle.

The yoga postures are not only a series of physical positions but exercises in

mental awareness. The yogi must try to become conscious of the energy as it directs the muscular movements.

The yogi is enjoined to practise moderation in everything. He should avoid eating too much, or too little. He should not sleep too much, nor too little. (More than seven hours' sleep at night only drugs the nervous system.)

He should be especially moderate in his sex life. Sexual over-indulgence causes tremendous drain on natural

Celebrations We d d i n g s

~

Engagements

~

Anniversaries

~

Birthdays

Newborn B aby

The postures should not be practised, save with the greatest of caution, when the body is unwell. Any posture that gives rise to a feeling of pain (other than muscular) in the chest, abdomen or brain should be abandoned until the cause has been ascertained. People with high blood pressure should avoid all but the most gentle poses.

They should be practised on an empty stomach or at least three hours after eating. It is preferable that the body be warm when performing them. But don't practise immediately after strenuous activity; or so long that the postures themselves result in overexertion and fatigue.

Women should use caution if they wish to do yoga postures during the

~

Graduations

~

“Consistency is key — giving it the honest time it needs, said Kopeck.”

first day or two of the menstrual period.

Yoga practices help one to live in harmony with the forces of nature.

The yoga postures should always, if possible, be practised out-of-doors, or by an open window.

Between poses, he should calmly withdraw his energy from the periphery of his body; he should rest within himself. Savasana, the corpse pose, is particularly recommended for these peaceful interludes.

Kopeck knows that hot yoga is something that involves practice and repetition and moving at your own pace. Kopeck noted that sometimes people think their problems and their injuries can be fixed after just one session.

The duration of each posture must be increased gradually. People beginning these postures after middle age should be particularly careful to start slowly, with the easier poses, bit by bit working up to the more difficult ones.

(Swami Kriyananda is a direct disciple of Paramhansa Yogananda, founder of Ananda Sangha, and a known authority on Kriya Yoga.)

Birth Announcements

Happy Birthday Indy and Aekam Bal

Happy 56th Birthday

are proud to announce

Jasvinder Singh Nijjer!!!

the birth of their baby girl

All the best on your special day with lots of love from all your family and friends!

Arzoe Kaur Bal November 9, 2012 DTC5184

We would also like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas

and Happy New Year!

DTC5185

By Swami Kriyananda, IANS

Connelly-Reed challenges herself in the hot room, finding the full expression of the current pose when she can and with time.

Dempsey’s advice for anyone wanting to try hot yoga is to keep and open mind and to try a few classes before making a final judgement.

Namaste.

vitality. Continence, if it has the full consent of the mind, can be a tremendous factor in helping one to achieve full vigour, mentally and physically, and to attain deep spiritual insight.

gives higher awareness

Connelly-Reed, who has been playing rugby for over ten years.

HOW TO PLACE YOUR

ANNOUNCEMENT

BY PHONE:

BY MAIL:

BY FAX:

BY EMAIL:

250-372-1010 393 Seymour St., Kamloops, BC V2C 6P6 250-372-0823 classified@kamloopsnews.ca

For further information call

250-372-1010

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Engagements ~ Weddings ~ Anniversaries ~ Birth Announcements ~ Birthdays ~ Thank-yous

MONDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2012 insight S19

Over the holiday season when we celebrate good cheer and thanks with friends and family - rich foods, baking and especially desserts are all on the menu. If you are one of millions of Canadians that experience a little or a lot of tooth sensitivity when eating, gum grafting procedures to solve the problem of receding gums is a solution in many situations. Periodontists are well known for providing dental implants and tooth extraction & bone grafting, but have traditionally been the only specialty treating gum disease and gum recession.

The difference is that today’s treatment is a lot less invasive with the technology of laser treatment. Periodontal researchers have proven that gum recession occurs when a significant amount of attachment is lost between the tooth, bone and gum tissue, usually causing the roots to be exposed. This is a progressive process, and may have symptoms such as heat or cold sensitivity, loss of tooth stability, and even cavities below the gum line. Not only can this be a problem aesthetically, it also worsens the tooth’s longterm prognosis.

To address this problem, Dr. Desai suggests gum grafting or connective tissue grafting to cover root recession.

Gum grafting is done for esthetics, function and longevity of the tooth,”

Gem 21s, a synthetic grafting system that stimulates wound healing.

As gum recession is a long-term process, it can be seen in individuals over 40, more often due to periodontal disease, trauma, or abrasion from brushing. But this does not mean that the younger generation is not suffering from it - they may develop the problem due to braces. says Dr. Desai, “it increases the long term prognosis of teeth, improves esthetics, reduces the chances of a cavity on roots, and reduces cold sensitivity.” Gum grafting is an aesthetic plastic surgery procedure that restores the receding gum line to its previous healthy level. Dr. Desai utilizes the latest in dental science products with the use of Alloderm, Perioderm or donor graft, which eliminates the need for using tissue from the roof of the mouth. To speed the healing of the grafts, as well as reduce patient discomfort, she also uses Emdogain which aids in the regeneration process, and

Dr. Preety Desai

“If you are one of the millions of Canadians that have gum recession, then you may want to consider having a gum graft done in order to cover your exposed roots and make your teeth both healthier and more aesthetic,” Dr. Desai explains on her website www.kamloopsperiodontist.com or by calling 778-471-6001.

Dr. Desai’s office offers high-tech and highcare services, such as laser gum disease treatment, laser gum surgery, tooth extraction and implant replacement, all on 4 dental implant treatment and other periodontal procedures. Dr. Desai is a board-certified periodontist and has lived in Kamloops for 16 years. She is an active member of the Canadian Academy of Periodontology, American Academy of Periodontology the Canadian Dental Association, the Academy of Osseointegration, Masters in Biolase Technology, BC Society of Periodontists.

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D001256873

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S20 insight MONDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2012

Life & Culture

Destination:

African Safari Story and Photos by Rhonda Williams

I

t wasn’t on my bucket list of places to visit – but I have rarely enjoyed a holiday more than the African Safari I took in July this year. It was truly spectacular!

The grind of this adventure is getting to South Africa in the first place.

From British Columbia, it takes well over a day of travel to get to Johannesburg. The rewards of the safari, however, far outweigh the tedium of the journey to get to the starting point.

A short flight from Johannesburg over brown land dotted with circular fields took me and my family to a tiny landing strip beside Kruger National Park. Our lodge was situated in Sabi Sabi, adjacent to the park. On the half hour ride from the landing strip to the lodge in an open Land Rover, we saw no animals and no birds. It was not an auspicious start and we were more than a little bit worried! We checked into the magnificent lodge and settled into our roomy cottages. Lunch was served on a large covered wooden deck with open sides. One side looked out over a wide meadow with a watering hole. Several antelope drifted by to our delight. Binoculars and cameras at the ready we excitedly watched the variety of birds and small animals drinking their fill. We began to feel that all was not lost in terms of wildlife.

Mid afternoon saw us set off in the Land Rover for a three-hour game drive in the warm African winter afternoon. The perfectly blue sky and bright sun set the scene beautifully for the treasures to come. Our guide and tracker promised that we would find animals and birds aplenty. As if conjured by their promises, we saw a tall giraffe nibbling peacefully at the

top of a tree just as we left the lodge grounds. A short time later, a herd of water buffalo milled quietly around our vehicle as we snapped photos breathlessly. They were spooked by something we couldn’t see or hear or smell, and crashed off into the underbrush in a panic. As we moved on, a mother rhinoceros stood firmly across the road between the Land Rover and her young baby as she glared at us defiantly. After a late afternoon stop for welcome sundowners on the edge of a shallow, misty canyon, we watched two old lions asleep at the base of a short rise for nearly an hour.

They could barely be bothered to raise their heads as we watched them. They were scarred and mangy, unafraid of a mere bunch of tourists. They had seen real danger in their lives and knew that we were not a threat to them. We drove back in darkness under an unfamiliar southern hemisphere canopy of stars.

other’s captured sightings. The food was marvellous and plentiful. Old fashioned lanterns lit the tables. A crackling fire sent glowing sparks flying high into the inky African sky.

Animals near the lodge roared and quarreled into the night. It was magic!

Before sunrise the next morning we were up for hot chocolate and biscuits before we got aboard the Land Rovers and gratefully clasped hot water bottles to our chilled hands as we huddled under warm blankets.

Winter mornings are surprisingly brisk in South Africa! Wrapped up in hats and scarves, we set off as the sun rose in a clear sky, eagerly peering about to see what fresh wonders we would find. And find them we did!

Two lionesses with three small cubs captivated us for nearly an hour as they strolled along a dusty path. The cubs enchanted us with their play, and the mothers benevolently watched their babies, largely ignoring the smalls groups of watching tourists in the Land Rovers. Later, we watched a group of six adult male rhinos teaching a young male how to butt heads.

They let him push them back a little, and then showed him how it was really done. A family group of five elephants sauntered along a gulley, turning to flap their gigantic ears at us if we got too close to the young ones. Two Egyptian ducks fluttered in a pond. We were ecstatic to see the animals up close and unconcerned by our presence. The guide ensured that we stopped and spent quite a bit of time with each group or animal, to really observe the behavior of the animals rather than just seeing them as we flew by in the Land Rover.

“The next morning we spent over an hour with a group of fourteen lionesses hunting, circling, and tracking. It was a high point of the trip to watch them as they were all alerted by the noise of the prey in the distance.”

Dinner under the stars back at the lodge was a marvel of flavour and contrast. Excited conversations rose and fell among the guests and guides and centred on the animals we had all seen, the dry hills and the clear skies.

Digital camera screens were passed from hand to hand as we viewed each

We drove back to the lodge over dusty, bumpy roads for breakfast. To our startled surprise we saw a warthog napping beside the path in the lodge grounds. He opened one wary eye as we passed him. We rushed up to reception to report this dangerous animal, only to be told that he liked to nap every day beside the path. And we did see him in the same place every day. Breakfast in the open air on the wide verandah was wonderful. We then had time to review our photos, update our animal/bird sighting books (provided by the lodge), and relax by the pool or at our cottages before lunch. Given our early morning, naps were also a favourite pastime.

During the afternoon game drive we interrupted a leopard napping in the tall grass. He glanced up at us once, showing us his one blind eye, before yawning and rising for a walk. At one point he lay down in the dirt and rolled in antelope feces. This is a strategy to mask his scent when he is hunting. We followed him for a quarter of an hour before he decided to rest again at sunset. Sundowners were followed by a lesson in star gazing from the guide as he pointed out unfamiliar constellations in the crisp night sky.

The next morning we spent over an hour with a group of 14 lionesses hunting, circling, and tracking. It was a high point of the trip to watch them as they were all alerted by the noise of

ALL PHOTOS: Sabi Sabi Wildlife park in south africa

the prey in the distance. They drifted together noiselessly in the same direction, all but disappearing into the long, dry grass. Without any discernible signal, one lioness circled off in a wide left arc. A few minutes later another lioness went off in a wide right arc. The others slowly moved forward into the brush and long grass.

By the time we got around to where we could see them again, they had abandoned the hunt when they found they were tracking an elephant. With abundant antelope and water buffalo, they must have decided to seek easier prey. It was amazing to see the group work together so efficiently and without any communication that we could see.

Each time we went out on a game drive our ‘real’ lives vanished into thin air and we were truly in the moment with the vast land, the fresh air and the amazing animals. Our guide and our tracker told us of other animals they had seen, of the pure waste of poachers, of the hot summers and cool winters. We were endlessly transported by their tales. Too soon we were back at the tiny landing strip and flying over the circular fields. It was a magical vacation and the journey home seemed short as we viewed and compared our photos, as we relived encounters with wild animals that were unafraid and as we plotted how to get back for another visit.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2012 insight S21

Life & Culture

Haida Gwaii Primordial rainforest, magic, art and culture

By Larkin Schmiedl

I

n a place where mists shroud mountaintops, where the largest village is home to less than 1,000 people, and there’s only one stoplight: the ocean and the land blends. The persistent rainfall grows trees as wide and tall as any on Earth, and the Haida culture forms a powerful attraction to visitors from all over the world.

Haida Gwaii sits off the northern coast of British Columbia, made up of two main islands and a group of hundreds of smaller ones. The northern island is known as Graham Island, the southern as Moresby.

Separated from the B.C. mainland by a shallow, sometimes temperamental, windy Hecate Strait, the 10,180 square kilometres of Haida Gwaii are an outdoor enthusiast’s playground and an excellent place to learn about Haida culture and soak up a vibrant local art scene.

The islands’ colonial name is the Queen Charlottes, and they’re sometimes known as such.

Because Haida Gwaii is geographically remote, distinct flora and fauna have evolved there, which has earned the islands the reputation of “the Galapagos of the north.” It’s a biologist’s dream.

With a total population of less than 5,000, nearly half the islands’ people are Haida.

Access is by ferry from Prince Rupert, an eight-hour boatride away, or by airplane from either Prince Rupert or Vancouver.

Popular visitor activities include hiking, surfing, kayaking, whale watching tours, fishing, camping and cycling. Adventure tours are popular, and there are many guides on the islands.

If visitors are keen to check out historical Haida culture, the Haida Heritage Centre at Kaay Llnagaay features a museum.

The largest single tourism draw is Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site on the south island. Many people are keen to visit the ancient totem poles and pristine rainforest covered in heavy mats of moss that can be found there.

For a magical hike on the north island, visit Cape Fife trail outside Masset village. The trail starts at North Beach, and there is camping available.

Boating is popular around Haida Gwaii and the visitor’s centres can provide marine data.

A well-known Haida creation story has its place nearby on the northeasternmost tip of the island – and was depicted on the Canadian $20 bill.

Every August, Haida Gwaii plays host to the Edge of the World music festival. Near the festival’s grounds at Tlell is a trail leading to a big old shipwreck on the beach, called the Pesuda.

When travelling to Haida Gwaii, it’s a good idea to plan ahead since the islands are remote.

According to Tourism B.C., accommodations are often busy, and some close for the winter. Places to stay range from motels and lodges to rustic cabins and beach huts. There are fancy cottages, upscale guest houses, bed and breakfasts, and a hostel.

Summer is the busiest tourist season, although the weather stays temperate for most of the year. Winter will see more rains and wind on the islands, although it can be very rainy at any time of year. It’s what makes the trees and moss grow so big.

Car rentals are available for getting around, and there is an airport shuttle that runs to Queen Charlotte City.

There is also a ferry that runs between the north and south islands.

Depiction of Haida Creation story. The carving was featured on the $20 bill, up until earlier this month.

For more information on Haida

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• Employer LMO / AEO

• Canadian Experience Class

• Student Visa

SOUTH SHORE FOR LEASE 615 Victoria St. • Victoria Landing

Business Immigration to Canada is our Expertise Business Immigration – Buying or Starting a Business – Invest a min. $200,000 CDN and start a business

Licensed Canadian Immigration Consultant

153 Seymour Street • Centennial building • Professional office & retail space available • Ample secure parking • Units available from 180 sq. ft. 4177 sq. ft.

Services available across Thompson-Okanagan & Lower Mainland Your Satisfaction is Important to us Complete Confidentiality

Elite Overseas Services Ltd.

• Excellent business exposure with ample parking available

ashish.chadha5@gmail.com

D001257354

ashish@eliteoverseasservices.com

760 Mayfair Street (Riverbend)

Unit 202, 9200 Scott Road Surrey, BC V3V 4B7 Ph: 604.771.4604

www.eliteoverseasservices.com

• Professional space on main & upper floors • Wheelchair & Elevator accessible • Covered parking • Attractive leasing incentives • Approx. 300-2,800 sq. ft. available

191 Victoria Street

546 St. Paul Street • Medical/Professional building • Landlord willing to do build outs • Attractive leasing incentives • 500-7000 sq. ft. available • Common area renovations completed

• Located in a prime location on the corner of 2nd Ave. & Victoria Street • Call us about the new floor plans • 2nd floor: Approx: 50010,000 sq. ft.

NORTH SHORE FOR LEASE

– Call for Appointment –

Suite 200 - 322 Victoria Street Kamloops, BC V2C 2A5 Ph: 778-471-7075

275 Lansdowne Street

• Prominent & prestigious building located in central downtown • Main floor: 3,148 sq. ft.

• 3rd floor: 732 sq. ft.

• Quality improvements in place • Available immediately • Landlord willing to offer leasing incentives

• Federal Skilled Worker Class

Ashish Chadha

Gwaii, visit www.qcinfo.ca, or call the visitor's centre at (250) 559-8316.

D001271067

Destination:

• Business Opportunities: Medical/Professional, Personal Services, Café, Restaurant, Consulting, NonProfit, etc.

• Approx. 1210 and 1937 sq. ft.

#3 & #6 685 Tranquille Rd. • Approx. 1299 sq. ft. and 1200 sq. ft. available • Attractive prime storefront locations facing Tranquille Road • Great potential for specialty retail, professional office, medical, and food service tenants • Situated adjacent to the New North Kamloops Library and Holiday Inn and Suites

618 Tranquille Rd. Approx. 488 sq. ft. of prime professional space. Located on second floor, free parking for customers on Tranquille Rd.

Classifieds S22 insight MONDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2012

INSIGHT CLASSIFIEDS ****************** Reach 16,000 Readers throughout the Interior ***************** Prices starting from $6.50 +HST per insertion ***************** ~ Merchandise ~ ~ Rentals ~ ~ Real Estate ~ ~ Employment ~ ~ Announcements ~ ~ Matrimonials ~ ~ Obituaries ~ ***************** To Place Your Ad Call 250-372-1010 ******************

ServiceS ServiceS

ServiceS Services For Hire

SELL

RENT

HIRE

Health Services

Renos & Home Repairs

For Sale - Misc

Motorcycles

Sport Utility & 4x4

ASIAN METHODS Acupuncture, Acupressure, Ultrasound, Paraffine bath, Aromatherapy Hot Stone FOR *Chronic disease, *Pain management, *Body circulation & balance. 250-320-1209. www.yangjonesclinic.com

ALL DRYWALL CONTRACTING All - projects from beginning to end. All - guaranteed. All - protected: City licence, WCB, Experience. Call 250-371-0992.

CBR600RR 2006 Rothmans. Unique style, immaculate condition.

14,000kms. View photos

1996 FORD Explorer XLT 4WD. Fully loaded, 1 owner. Good condition. $4,500. 250-372-3049.

Cleaning

agriculTure

MULBERRY BUSH KIDS STUFF INC. Gently used infant to adult clothing. Halloween costumes. Hockey gear.

New inventory such as Robeez, Melissa & Doug, +much more! Ask about our In-Store Specials.

1304 Battle St. Kamloops, B.C. 250-374-2501

EZZZY CLEANING Residential / Commercial Cleaning & Maid Services.

Perfect for moving in/out or for general cleaning needs. Call Jason or Kim 250-851-1539 or 778470-3999.

EZZZY CLEANING Residential / Commercial Cleaning & Maid Services.

Perfect for moving in/out or for general cleaning needs. Call Jason or Kim 250-851-1539 or 778470-3999.

Drywall ALL DRYWALL CONTRACTING 25/yrs. quality service.

Tape, board, texture.

Renovations from ground up. Framing, plumbing, electrical, painting. City of Kamloops licensed. 250371-0992.

1-800-GOT-JUNK? Residential, commercial junk removal. Recycling, Driving Services charitable donations. Fully insured. Single items starting at $50. 1-800- AIRPORT SHUTTLE 468-5865.

SERVICE. Serving residential, commercial & hoTHOMPSON VALLEY tel transportation to & DISPOSAL LTD. from the Airport. Call Jack 12 yard mini bins, up to at 250-314-4803 for res40 yard big bins, no job ervations. too big or small. Locally owned and operated.

Moving 250-376-5865, 250-3205865. thompsonvalleydisposal.ca EZZZY MOVING For all your residential/commercial moving Funeral Services needs.

FREE Estimates. Lowest rates in town! Contact Jason or KAMLOOPS Aj (250)851-1539.

FUNERAL HOME “WE LIKE TO MOVE IT, MOVE IT”.

The Only Family Owned Funeral Home Serving Kamloops and Area.

Paint/Wallpaper

285 Fortune Drive Kamloops, BC V2B 2H7 250-554-2577 Toll Free: 1-866-420-7758 Email: kfhome@shawbiz.ca

TRADE

DUTCH MASTERS PAINTING SERVICES Interior & Exterior. 3 Room Deal $299 Includes Paint over 2000 colours to choose from. Call Jeff 250-320-9935.

agriculTure agriculTure

Furniture

Tractors UNIVERSAL TRACTOR 4WD. 50HP. Very good shape. $6,500. 3 Bottom Plow made by David Brown. $300. 250-5787887.

merchandiSe merchandiSe

merchandiSe

BRAND NEW Microfibre SECTIONAL. Still in boxes. Sofa, Chaise and Ottoman.

Worth $1299.

Must sell $599! Delivery included.

250-434-2337, 250-314-7022.

QUEEN PILLOW Top. Brand New mattress and box. Still in plastic. Worth $999. Sell $399. Phone 250-434-2337 or 250314-7022.

Musical Instruments

ANTIQUE GERMAN Violin EH Roth & Italian made 25yrs/old. Full size INGLIS WHITE Stove, New York USA made Vioworks good. $100/obo. lin 1pc maple back. Elec250-573-2498. tric strata style Guitar. Samick 5 string bluegrass Bango. Perfect condition.

Bargains For more items, call 250434-6738.

COMPLETE SET of Hardy Boy Books. Includes Heavy Equipment Detective Handbook. 59 TD12C Crawler copies. $200/obo. 250- 1993 Tractor. New finals. Ex572-6051. cellent condition. Call for more info. $38,000. 250Crafts/Gifts 672-9344.

Appliances

ATTENTION CRAFTPets ERS: gel candles creaPET ADOPTIONS tions. Selling all stock, equipment, supplies. 170 TRU now has cats and candles pre-done. dogs available for adoption to good homes. For $500/all. 250-319-3763. an appointment to view, please call 250-828-5174.

Firewood www.tru.ca/science/pro grams/aht/adoptions ALL SEASON Firewood.

Birch, fir and pine for delivery. 250-377-3457.

auToS & rvS auToS & rvS

auToS & rvS

For Sale - Misc

Auto Misc 14” CONCRETE Saw. Stand on wheels good. 4-KUMO TIRES. Blade, water hook-up. 30/950/R15. $300. 4-Han$500. 250-376-8150. kook winters like new 24FT. ROUND above 195/70R14. $300. 250ground pool. $1,000. 250- 578-7887.

579-8712.

BEER FRIDGE. Registered Pepsi Fridge, single glass door, w/light. Recently serviced. Excellent condition. $995.

(250)828-0099.

www.multimediadesign.ca/cbr600rr

$5,500/obo.

4632.

(250)574-

250.372.1010

call: fax: 250.372.0823 email: classified@kamloopsnews.ca or drop by: 393 Seymour St., Kamloops Hours: M-F 9am to 5pm

MATRIMONIALS

real eSTaTe real eSTaTe

for Sale For Sale by Owner

Trucks & Vans

HALF DUPLEX Sahali.

2+1bdrms, carport, baseMOBILE COMMERCIAL ment, A/C, many updates.

Collector & Classic Cars Steam Cleaning 5-Ton Quick Possession.

Van Truck with broiler $269,900. 250-374-3325.

1986 LINCOLN Mark 7 generator & pumps.

LSC. 147,000kms. $30,000. (778)470-3324.

Houses for Sale $3,000/obo.

(250)579- 2007 HONDA Ridgeline 1919.

XL. 58,000kms. 3.5L, V-6, FOR RESULTS...

1970 MUSTANG Con- auto, 5/spd. Like new, ful- When selling or buying vertible. 302 V8. Auto, ly loaded. $25,000. 250- real estate call Ed. Selling power top, power steer- 554-5177.

Kamloops since 1980. ing. 116,000/miles. Excel- 2007 CHEV 2500 Cargo 250-374-3331. lent condition. $15,000. Van. Ladder rack, A/C, RE/MAX ED BARKER 250-371-1430.

55,000kms. 4.8L. Mint www.edbarker.com condition.

Reduced HALF DUPLEX Sahali.

Cars $15,500. 250-374-5556.

2+1bdrms, carport, base2001 NISSAN Quest SE ment, A/C, many updates.

2011 SUBARU Outback Possession.

Van. Tinted windows. Quick Ltd. Fully loaded w/3.6 110,000kms. All power, $265,900. 250-374-3325. boxer engine. Leather. alarm system. $5,500.

30,000kms.

Excellent (250)574-3668.

Real Estate Services condition. $29,500/obo.

2000 DODGE Laramie 250-675-5561.

ACCREDITED 3500 Dually. 24 Valve.

2009 DODGE Avenger.

CONSULTANT IN Diesel.

Loaded, new 2.4. Auto. 30,000kms.

REAL ESTATE tires. Comes w/10ft. JayRemote doors & starter. co camper. $28,000/both. Dwight Vos of BEST$13,000/obo.

250-579WEST REALTY LTD. of250-578-7887.

8805. fers his experience in 1998 CHEV 4x4. Diesel. Consulting and gives you 2007 AUDI A4.

Loaded. Good condition. CHOICES in helping you 84,000kms.

Full load.

Low mileage. Blue. With with your Real Estate Good condition. Heated hitch. $4,500. (250)554- needs in Evaluations, seats, silver.

1940.

Selling, Subdivision, Re$16,500/obo.

250-6821993 FORD 16’ Cube zoning, Negotiating and 5269.

Van. Repainted, new die- general advice. Payment 2005 FORD Taurus. 3L sel motor, tires, battery, by Hourly Rate, Fees, or V6. Auto. Fully loaded. transmission rebuilt. Commissions. Please call 51,000kms. Very clean.

250-371-7992 (Cell) 250$6,995. 250-376-5055.

Estate sale. $7,995.

554-4511 (Office).

1992 DODGE Ram 250.

(250)395-8817.

Cummins turbo diesel.

1993 MUSTANG 5.0/L 160hp, canopy, 5th H.0. 5/spd. new paint. Cowheel/trailer hitch. bra rims, B&M Shifter, 280,000kms. $5,999.

C/D. $7,000. 250-319250-819-3331.

6390.

real eSTaTe real eSTaTe

renTalS

Sport Utility & 4x4 2009 JEEP Patriot North.

4x4. Standard, A/C. Loaded. Sirius, Green, Hitch.

61,500kms.

Warranty. $18,500. (250)672-9623.

2002 LANDROVERFREELANDER S. Rare model. 107,000kms. 2.5L, V-6, PG, alloy wheels.

Heated seats. $12,000/obo.

250-5549470.

Motorcycles

2001 FORD ESCAPE XLT. Auto, AWD, PW, Air, Cruise, Tilt, Sunroof. New Brakes. 198,000km. Lots of work done. Runs and Drives Great. $4,500/obo.

250-571-0814.

2009 SUZUKI Boulevard S50 Cruiser, 800cc, blue, saddlebags, 4,383kms, mint condition. $5,299.

250-682-4699.

1999 GMC TAHOE. Maroon colour, fully loaded.

Only 66,000kms. Like new. New tires. $13,000.

250-578-7887.

Apartments/Condos 1 & 2 BEDROOM SUITES Or 2 & 3 BEDROOM TOWNHOUSES We are pleased to offer spacious updated suites to call home.

Valleyview Rob 250-851-2826 North Kamloops & Downtown Dave 250-299-8740 Sahali/College Heights Rose 250-374-7907 North Kamloops & Valleyview Val 250-554-4590 North Kamloops Carl 250-377-5877 Sahali/Arrowstone Dr. Shawn 250-819-3691 Aberdeen & Sahali Ernie 250-828-6266 www.kelsongroup.com 1 BEDROOM Apartments. Includes heat, hotwater, A/C, patio. N/P. Reference required. 250376-1485.

Commercial 1140 HALSTON Avenue.

Shop, 1250sq/ft. Commercial, repair bodyshop, storage, compound parking. 250-371-2891.

1400 SQ/FT shop 30’x80’ with small office, 12ft overhead door for lease.

Available Immediately. $1,000/mo. plus HST. 250-682-0005, 250-5787647 leave message.

SPACE FOR lease in Valleyview. Approximately 2,850sq/ft. First floor office with ample parking.

250-372-8549.

Engagements ~ Weddings ~ Anniversaries Birth Announcements ~ Birthdays ~ Thank-yous

HOW TO PLACE YOUR

ANNOUNCEMENT

BY PHONE: 250-372-1010

BY MAIL: 393 Seymour St., Kamloops, BC V2C 6P6

BY FAX: 250-372-0823

BY EMAIL: classified@kamloopsnews.ca

DTC5186

BUY

TO PLACE AN AD:

For further information call

250-372-1010

CLASSIFIEDS SSIFIEDS IED Matrimonials ~ Employm e nt ~ Re nta l s ~ S e r v i ce s ~ M e rc h a n d is e ~ O b it u a rie s

cl assi fi e d@ka mloopsne ws.ca

MC0014

To place your ad call all

250.372.1010

MONDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2012 insight S23

OPTIMUM IMMIGRATION S E R V I C E S

Optimum Group is your one stop shop for all your immigration needs.

The skills requirements by employers have been changing in the last few decades from resource based to knowledge based economies. At the same time, the labour force in Canada is aging, due to lower fertility, longer life expectancy, and the aging of the baby boom population.

workers. An escalating shortage of qualified commercial truck drivers has been found across all of Canada. Employers are hiring foreign workers with international trucking experience to keep up with the demand. The provinces are promoting their nomination programs to retain the foreign workers.

Despite the fastest growing employment rate of any G7 nation, a good number of current workforce in Canada is aged 55 or older and is nearing retirement. The rate at which younger workers are filling the job vacancies has been declining steadily. Economic experts foresee a grim time for the immediate future of the Canadian employment market, and that it will take around 20 years to Canada’s labour market to fill up those positions. The Healthcare, IT, Skilled labour/ trades, and hospitality are expected to particularly hard hit by these shortages.

Healthcare Canada is facing a critical shortage of healthcare professionals as baby boomers retire and too few graduates are emerging from medical schools to care for the ageing population. Although the number of healthcare workers in Canada continues to rise, so does the gap between the supply and demand. The nursing shortage is projected to grow to 113,000 by 2016 and there are already 2000 unfilled pharmacist positions across the country. The healthcare industry impacts every industry in Canada as healthy employees are a requirement for a successful business. The shortage of healthcare professionals cannot be resolved immediately via the education system; this is due the lead times in training healthcare professionals, four years for nurses, six for doctors.

However, there is another option. Each year many foreign trained healthcare professionals immigrate to Canada. While the training of these immigrants may not be at Canadian standards, they can be trained fairly quickly since the basics already exist. Each foreign trained healthcare professional that is not working in the industry due to the arduous accreditation process could be adding more value to Canada and the economy.

Canada’s food service industry recently predicted that it will need 200,000 more workers over the next ten years. Canadian Medical Association and Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons suggest that Canada needs to add 26,000 doctors immediately in order to meet minimal international standards. The Conference Board of Canada predicts that Ontario alone could face a shortage of 190,000 skilled workers by 2020, and 564,000 by 2030. The Vancouver Regional Construction Association states that British Columbia construction industry will need to fill 45,000 jobs over the next five to ten years.

Tourism and Hospitality The hospitality industry is a $60-billion industry and one of the country’s top employers, employing more than one million workers nationwide. In many towns and cities across Canada, business owners are already facing major staff challenges. There are simply not enough people to fill all the job vacancies. Foodservice operators are losing workers to other higher paying industries, which makes it harder. In Alberta, there is currently a shortage of 13,000 employees in the foodservice industry. The labour shortage crisis is spreading to foodservice operations in British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario. A restaurant that is short-staffed cannot provide the same level of service as a fully staffed restaurant, resulting in lost business, a reduction in investment and diminished growth for the overall economy.

Canada’s tourism sector is experiencing a shift towards tighter labour markets over the medium and long term. With the increase in the demand for labour in the tourism sector, the supply of labour will have an increasing difficult time keeping up. As a result, the challenge of recruiting and retaining tourism workers will continue to intensify.

Construction and Skilled Trades Canada is facing a shortage of construction workers over the next decade – the industry will need to recruit in the order of 320,000 workers from 2011 to 2019, as estimated by the Construction Sector Council (CSC). About 1/3 will be required to handle growth, while 2/3 will be needed to offset retirements.

The booming construction market in Alberta has had a ripple effect on every region in Canada and almost every industry sector. New construction is increasing the demand for skilled trades. As the demand is increasing, Canadian demographics are trending in the opposite direction. The population is aging and workers are retiring in greater numbers. One quarter of the current Canadian construction workforce is expected to retire in the next ten years. This trend will aggravate an already tight supply market. Out of the overall recruiting demand of 320,000 construction workers, it is expected that half of these requirement of 163,000 new Canadian entrants.

Canada’s labour shortage is a complex challenge that requires novel solutions from both businesses and government. Business must be more flexible and imaginative in their recruitment of workers; retaining existing employees; and hiring foreign workers.

Government is trying to remove the barriers in the labour market by changing employment and immigration policies. The Canadian Government is also streamlining the credential recognition process to get the foreign trained professionals and trades people accredited more quickly, to resolve the labour shortage. Every year over 150,000 foreign workers enter Canada to work temporarily. Citizenship and Immigration Canada plans to welcome 42,000-45,000 people under the Provincial Nomination Program in 2012 which represents almost seven fold increase since 2004. In 2010, Canada welcomed the highest number of permanent resident in the past 50 years to support Canada’s economic recovery. 280,636 legal immigrants came to Canada as permanent residents.

Canada also welcomed a high number of temporary residents including 182,322 temporary foreign workers and 96,147 foreign students in 2010. While other Western countries are cutting back on immigration, Canadian government is keeping immigration levels high to meet the current labour shortage needs.

Anuradha (Anoo) Bhushan is an ICCRC member, and manages the BC division. Anoo stays up to date with rapidly changing immigration laws, policies and procedures. She started her career as an Immigration Practitioner in 2007. Anoo focuses in matters of temporary entry and permanent status, including HRSDC LMO, PNP processes. Anoo is conversant and proficient in transitioning of temporary workers and students to permanent resident status through PNP, FSW and CEC programs. She has a very good understanding of the South Asian culture and sensitivity to the issues and concerns of Asian immigrants. Anoo is fluent in English, Hindi, and Punjabi and is a licensed member in good standing with ICCRC.

ANURADHA (ANOO) BHUSHAN UNIT 201, 8356-120 ST. SURREY, BC, V3W 3N4 PH: 778.593.7535 CELL: 604.765.8102 FAX: 778.593.7538

KAMLOOPS LOCAL NUMBER 250.879.0895

anoo@optimumgroup.info

www.optimumimmigration.com

D001257227

Trucking Canada’s trucking industry is vital to the nation’s economic prosperity. Trucks carry 90 percent of all consumer and food products, 24 hours a day, seven days week, 365 days a year. The trucking industry has the largest proportion of people 55 years and older, and the smallest proportion of young workers of any sector. It is difficult to replace retiring

S24 insight MONDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2012

December 26th to 30th

"WE DON'T SELL - WE HELP YOU BUY"

BLOWOUT Soft Touch Leather Look Chair & Storage Ottoman

COMPLETE SELECTION OF BRAND NAME FURNITURE, APPLIANCES, MATTRESSES & ELECTRONICS

All this for

12 Piece Collections

4PGB -PWF 4FBU QD $PòFF 5BCMF 4FU 1BJS PG -BNQT 1JFDF "DDFTTPSZ 4FU

$1499

299

Rocker Recliner $

4 Drawer Refrigerator Reg. 2999.95

'BCSJD 4PGB $299 'BCSJD -PWF 4FBU $279

51"

1080p 120Hz LED HDTV $

898

60"

$

26 cu. ft.

Refrigerator

Plasma Full HDTV 1080p 720p 60Hz LED HDTV $ $

448

298

52�

40"

52"

KAMLOOPS

250.372.7999 1350 Hillside Dr.

Reg. 999.95

1099

95

$

69995

$

998

398

Soundbar with Subwoofer

with purchase of any 50" and up Panasonic TV

VERNON

SALMON ARM

5401 Anderson Way

1160 10 Ave. SW

250.549.3121

250.832.9770

Stove

Reg. 899.95

Reg. 1499.95

169995

59995

$

89995

$

Save $600

138

$

Stainless Steel Tub Dishwasher

True Convection

Reg. 2599.95

1080p 120Hz LED HDTV 1080p 60 Hz LCD HDTV $ $

1498

Reg. 1899.95

$

32"

3

Smart Viera 1080p LED HDTV $

1899

95

Stainless Steel Tub Dishwasher

Double Oven Stove

*

5.3 cu. ft.

Steam

Save $400

Washer & Dryer Washer & Dryer Washer Dryer $

129995

$

119995

MERRITT

PRINCE GEORGE

2025 Coutlee Ave.

1303 - 3rd. Ave.

250.378.2332

250.564.1234

449 $349

$

QUESNEL

250.992.2229 362 Reid St.

D001256854

55"

399

$