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Volume 10 Issue 279 Rabi ul Thani 6, 1432 AH / March 11, 2011 - $1

New air raids hit Libyan oil city

Surrey Mayor Dianne Watts recognizes Miracle’s 10 years in publication Mayor Watts poses with a copy of the anniversary edition of the Miracle. The mayor was interviewed at the site of Photo by: M.N.Pirzada the new City Hall. Details on page 15

B.C.’s Clark signals that lowering taxes will be a priority British Columbia’s premier-designate Christy Clark cast doubts on Monday on a planned increase to medical service premiums, saying her government needs to rethink the tax burden it places on families. Ms. Clark also flagged concern with proposed rate hikes on electricity – a strong hint that the Crown corporation, BC Hydro, may run into opposition with its plan to increase the price of power by 50 per cent over the next five years. Ms. Clark, who won the B.C. Liberal leadership on Feb. 26, will be sworn in March 14. At the same time, she’ll unveil a new and smaller cabinet. Although she campaigned as an outsider to government who would represent change, she played down on Monday just how different her cabinet will look. “People want change but we also want to have some stability in government as well,” she told reporters in Victoria. The bigger change, she suggested, is in the way the government will operate under her leadership: “To make sure we are pursing a families-first agenda for government, and Continued on pg 6 that is making sure

Celebrating 60 years in business

Forces loyal to Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi have launched new air raids on the oil city of Ras Lanuf and are closing in on the western town of Az Zawiyah. Fresh reports of rockets landing on Ras Lanuf came on Wednesday, leading to a growing concern for the city's gas facilities, which if bombed, could spell disaster for people living in the area. Jacky Rowland, Al Jazeera's correspondent in Ras Lanuf, said fighter jets were circling overhead and the rebels were firing back. "What we are hearing is intense and repeated attacks by Gaddafi's airplanes on the rebels," she said. "The air force is concentrating on the big junctions at the entrance to the town. The fact that it’s such consistent black smoke could well means there is oil underneath it. It is continuing to burn. "The opposition fighters are extremely panicked." Khaled Kwafi, a member of the opposition forces based on the outskirts of Ras Lanuf, told Al Jazeera that people were killed and injured in the attack. "An hour ago we saw warplanes in the sky. We heard very huge explosions and lots of smoke. Our people tried to go there but they were stopped," he said. "We heard there are people killed and injured there." Aside from attacks in Ras Lanuf forces loyal to Gaddafi launched a bombardment near rebel positions around the east Libyan oil terminal of Es Sider on Wednesday, blowing up storage tanks at the facility. Rebels retaliated by firing back with rockets as a fireball exploded from one of the oil tanks and the sky above the terminal filled with black smoke. Gaddafi's forces are also reported to have surrounded the rebel-held town of Az Zawiyah, close to the capital Tripoli. Tanks of forces closed in on the rebel-held main square of on Wednesday and their snipers shot at anything that moved, rebel and resident sources said. They said bodies were lying unrecovered in the ruins of many buildings destroyed in air raids earlier in the week and there was no one in the streets of the centre. The Libyan

Continued on pg 6

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Issue 278 - Rabi ul Thani 6, 1432 / March 11, 2011 THE

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Issue 278 - Rabi ul Thani 6, 1432 / March 11, 2011 THE

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Deadly Twin Blasts in Pakistan kill 61 A suicide bomber attacked a funeral procession in the northwestern city of Peshawar on Wednesday killing at least 36 people and wounding over 50, DawnNews quoted senior minister Bashir Bilour as saying. The Pakistani Taliban claimed responsibility for the assault, an AP report said. The funeral in the city’s Matani area was for the relative of a pro-government, ethnic Pashtun tribal elder, DCO Peshawar Siraj Ahmed told Reuters. The attacker mingled with the mourners before setting off his explosives, Ahmed said. Like in other parts of the northwest, Matani is home to several tribal armies that fight against the Taliban and get some government support. The militants have often targeted the militiamen. The Pashtun elder whose relative was being buried on Wednesday was involved with a pro-government militia force. It was not immediately clear if he had been killed or wounded in the explosion. “People had gathered and had just started praying when a boy walked in and blew himself up,” survivor Mohammad Eman told a private television channel. Bloodied shoes and caps littered the ground where the attack took place, on the outskirts of the city, as stunned survivors milled around or bundled the wounded into trucks and away to hospital, television images showed. The Pakistani Taliban claimed responsibility for the assault. Taliban spokesman Ahsanullah Ahsan said the insurgents targeted the militiamen because they were allied with the Pakistani government and, effectively, the United States. ”We will carry out more such attacks if they did not stop their activities,” he said via phone from an undisclosed location. The attack came a day

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Free Estimate after militants set off a car-bomb at a natural gas filling station in the central city of Faisalabad killing at least 25 people and wounding about 125. Pakistani Taliban fighting to bring down the government claimed responsibility for that attack. Pakistan has seen a wave of bombs in the past three years, many in the northwest near the border with Afghanistan, where the military is battling al Qaeda-linked Pakistani Taliban insurgents. The army says that several military offensives have weakened the militants but bomb attacks are still common. Source: Dawn

Gilani urges tolerance amid rising militancy Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani on Monday sought Muslim scholars’ help in curbing extremism and urged the country’s youth to follow Islamic teachings of tolerance and peace. Pakistani Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani delivered a speech at the opening ceremony of a threeday conference of Islamic clerics and scholars in Islamabad on March 7, 2011 “The country’s present situation demands that we follow the life of the Prophet Mohammad, who taught us tolerance and brotherhood,” Gilani said at a conference of Muslim scholars. “Today we need to follow the true message of tolerance and understanding preached and practiced by the Holy Prophet,” added Gilani. Gilani’s appeal came after suspected militants gunned down Shahbaz Bhatti in broad daylight in Islamabad last week. Born on September 9, 1968, to a Christian family in Punjab,

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Shahbaz Bhatti was the only non-Muslim minister in the Pakistan Peoples Party-led (PPP) coalition government. The slain minister was one of the founding members of the All Pakistan Minorities Alliance (APMA) in 1985 and was a representative of the religious minorities in Pakistan. He joined the PPP in 2002. He tabled a bill in the National Assembly Secretariat in 2008 that called for the doubling of minority seats in the national and provincial assemblies, and proposed that seats also be allocated to minorities in the Senate. He said the murderers of Shahbaz Bhatti tried to create a “wedge” between Muslims and Christians. But, he said, “I warn such elements they will never succeed in their objective.” Gilani also said that Islam and the constitution ensure rights and freedom for minorities. In their speeches, scholars vowed opposition to suicide bombings, extremism and terrorism, saying that they were struggling to spread Islam’s message of peace. “Extremism, terrorism and suicide attacks are heinous acts and have nothing to do with Islam. Such acts violate what Islam stands for,” senior scholar Mufti Abu Huraira Mohiuddin told the gathering. “Some misguided individuals are violating Islamic teachings. Islam guarantees protection for all of humanity,” he added.

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Issue 279 - Rabi ul Thani 6, 1432 / March 11, 2011 THE

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Issue 279 - Rabi ul Thani 6, 1432 / March 11, 2011 THE

Afghans Protest Civilian Casualties, Say Apology 'Not Enough' Afghan President Hamid Karzai on Sunday told US General David Petraeus, the commander of international troops, that his apology after nine children died in a NATO air strike was "not enough". Afghan protestors hold a placard during a demonstration in Kabul on Sunday. A roadside bomb ripped through a car in eastern Afghanistan, killing 12 civilians, as hundreds of people protested angrily in Kabul over the deaths of nine children in a NATO air raid. (AFP/Shah Marai) Hundreds of angry demonstrators also rallied in central Kabul over the deaths in an air raid by coalition helicopters in the eastern province of Kunar on Tuesday. NATO's International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) said the children -- who were collecting firewood in the province's Dar-e-Pech district when they were killed -- were mistaken for rebels. Petraeus and US President Barack Obama both apologised. The Western-backed Karzai, who has shaky relations with Washington, had already con-

demned the deaths, but on Sunday addressed Petraeus directly at a cabinet meeting at which the US general was present. "President Karzai said that David Petraeus's apology is not enough," a statement from the Afghan presidency said. "The civilian casualties are a main cause of worsening the relationship between Afghanistan and the US," the statement quoted Karzai as saying. "The people are tired of these things and apologies and condemnations are not healing any pain. "On behalf of the people of Afghanistan I want you to stop the killings of civilians." The air strike that killed the children was against insurgents who had attacked a military post, but it hit the young victims by mistake, according to military officials. Civilian casualties -- especially involving children -are a highly sensitive issue in war-torn Afghanistan, where a Taliban-led insurgency has raged since the Islamists were ousted from power by a US-led 2001 invasion. Karzai says deaths of civilians in military

operations turn people against his delicate pro-US administration. Civilian casualties have also been a key source of tension between Kabul and its Western backers, the US and NATO. A week before the children were killed, Karzai said troops had killed 65 non-combatants during operations in Kunar province's Ghaziabad district. That was followed by another incident in which Afghan authorities said troops killed six civilians in neighbouring Nangarhar province, also in an air raid. About 500 people poured onto the streets of Kabul earlier on Sunday and chanted anti-American slogans over the deaths of the children. Marching through central Kabul they shouted "Death to America -Death to the invaders." A placard carried by a veiled woman read: "Occupation = killing + destruction." "We don't want the invading forces," chanted one demonstrator carrying posters of the dead children. Another shouted: "Death to the government of President Hamid Karzai!" "When I saw the demonstra-

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tion and realised it is against the Americans I joined," Azizullah, one of the protesters, who uses one name, told AFP. Also Sunday, a roadside bomb ripped through a car in eastern Afghanistan, killing 12 civilians. The Taliban-style home-made device struck the car in the province of Paktika, killing five children, two women and five men, the provincial administration said in a statement. The victims were on their way from neighbouring Pakistan, it said, without giving further details. Mohibullah Samim, the provincial governor, blamed the bombing on "enemies of peace who once again revealed their tyrant face to the public," the statement added. Rebels loyal to the Taliban and other militant groups often use improvised -- or home-made -- bombs in attacks against Afghan security forces and their Western military backers. There are about 140,000 foreign military forces operating in Afghanistan under the command of Petraeus. Bombs are usually planted on public roads and often kill civilians instead of their military targets. A similar device on February 26 killed nine civilians in Khost province, which borders Paktika. Source: AFP

Afghan civilian deaths hit new high Last year was the deadliest yet for civilians in the Afghan war with a 15 percent jump in the death toll, the UN said in a report on Wednesday which laid bare the conflict's impact on ordinary people. The 2,777 deaths underscore the level of violence in the country as foreign troops prepare to start handing control of security to Afghan forces in some areas from July ahead of a full transition due by 2014. Insurgents were responsible for 75 percent of all civilian deaths, up 28 percent on 2009, the figures said. That compared to 16 percent for international and Afghan government forces, down 26 percent on the previous year, while responsibility for the remaining deaths could not be attributed. Large numbers of children and women were among the dead -- 1,175 and 555 respectively. The issue of civilian deaths caused by coalition forces, long a thorny question for the US-led troops, is particularly sensitive in Afghanistan at the moment. Last week, nine young boys were mistakenly killed while out collecting firewood in an air strike in eastern Afghanistan. President Hamid Karzai rejected a rare public apology over the incident from General David Petraeus, the US commander of troops in Afghanistan, while US Defense Secretary Robert Gates also said he was sorry during a visit to the country Monday. Air strikes by pro-government forces killed 171 people, according to the report released by the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) and the Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission (AIHRC). As it was published, Staffan de Mistura, the UN special representative in Afghanistan, issued an appeal to all combatants for civilian casualties to be reduced. "While we're sending a strong message to the Taliban and anti-government forces, we're also requesting and reminding the international forces one civilian victim is one too many," he said. "Let's not forget that the whole purpose of the international engagement in Afghanistan is protection of civilians." He also urged the Taliban to contribute to next year's report. But Taliban spokesman Yousuf Ahmadi dismissed the figures as "totally made up" and refused de Mistura's call, saying: "Working with them for us would mean recognising the invading forces and the Kabul administration." Overall, the figures indicate that the average number of Afghan civilians killed in the war last year stood at nearly eight per day. The total toll was nearly four times higher than the 2010 death toll for international troops, which stood at 711, according to independent website iCasualties.org. "In a year of intensified armed conflict, with a surge of activity by pro-government forces and increased use of improvised explosive devices and assassinations by anti-government elements, Afghan civilians paid the price with their lives in even greater numbers in 2010," said Ivan Simonovic, the UN's assistant secretary-general for human rights. A UN spokesman in Kabul confirmed that the civilian death toll was the highest since the Taliban were ousted by a USled invasion in 2001, triggering an insurgency fought with increasing intensity in recent years. An extra 30,000 troops were sent to Afghanistan in a bid to break the Taliban following an annou cement by US President Barack Obama in December 2009. Suicide attacks and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were the biggest killers in 2010, taking the lives of 1,141 people or 55 percent of all those killed by insurgents, the report said. It also revealed that 462 civilians were assassinated by insurgents, a 105 percent increase on the previous year, with huge spikes in the key Taliban strongholds of Helmand and Kandahar in southern Afghanistan. UNAMA and AIHRC called for all parties in the war to take more care to protect civilians in 2011, a year which politicians, officials and military figures predict will bring more bloodshed amid the transition process. Source: AFP

Ye m e n i p o l i c e f i r e o n p r o t e s t e r s At least 75 pro-democracy demonstrators injured in the shooting as calls for president Saleh's ouster gain momentum. Three of the wounded were in a serious condition, according to medical sources.

Tribunal rules Tamil migrant no threat to Canada A Tamil asylum seeker accused of extremist links for living in a former rebel-controlled area of Sri Lanka is not a threat to Canada, a tribunal ruled Monday. "The man's work for the LTTE -- Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam designated as a terrorist organization by Canada -- was not in support of its terrorist activities," the Immigration and Refugee Board said in a written decision. "In the context of the LTTE's hegemony in the area, everyone in some way provided material support for the organization, from paying a bus fare or selling a soft drink to a soldier, teaching children in an LTTE-created school, or... fixing motorbikes or public bus engines." The man, whose identity cannot be revealed under Canadian law, was also ordered released from detention while awaiting a decision on his refugee claim. Known only as passenger B173 for the proceedings, he came to Canada last year aboard the rickety cargo ship MV Sun Sea as one of 492 asylum seekers from Sri Lanka. Most were detained. Another 76 were arrested in 2009 upon arrival to Canada's west coast aboard a second freighter. Canada and Sri Lanka alleged the migrants may have included members of the Tamil Tigers, outlawed in Canada as a terror group before their defeat in 2009 by Sri Lanka's government after a lengthy civil war. In this case, authorities alleged the man knowingly carried out, attempted to carry out, participated in or facilitated terrorist activity as a mem-

ber of the LTTE. But the refugee board disagreed, saying: "In the context of life in the LTTE-controlled area, the evidence does not support a finding that the man crossed the line from being a mere sympathizer or supporter to a member." Rather, it characterized work he did for the LTTE and his contact with the group as "unavoidable dealings that anyone in the area would likely have had with the LTTE." Before its defeat, the LTTE controlled a vast area of northeastern Sri Lanka. "Mere association with the LTTE should not make somebody inadmissible to Canada," Canadian Tamil Congress spokesman David Poopalapillai said after the ruling. The board also noted that the man had no military training, did not distribute LTTE propaganda or solicit others to join their armed struggle, and was not involved in the group's political wing. He was the first of 32 Tamil asylum seekers to appear before an admissibility hearing, accused of human smuggling, war crimes or belonging to an organized criminal organization or extremist group. A next round of hearings is scheduled for March 8. The refugee board is also still reviewing the detention of 59 others from the MV Sun Sea to determine whether they are a security or flight risk, board spokeswoman Melissa Anderson told AFP. The rest have been ordered released pending a decision on their refugee claims. Source: AFP

Issue 279 - Rabi ul Thani 6, 1432 / March 11, 2011 THE

Rafsanjani ousted from Iranian post

Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, a former Iranian president and opposition member, has lost his position as head of an important state clerical body after being criticised by hardliners for being too close to the reformist opposition. Ayatollah Mohammad Reza Mahdavi Kani, 80, was elected as the new chairman of the Assembly of Experts on Tuesday, after Rafsanjani withdrew his candidacy, the semi-official Mehr news agency reported. Rafsanjani had chaired the 86-member body - which selects the supreme leader, supervises his activities and can dismiss him since 2007. Rafsanjani declined to make a fresh bid for the post he had held for four years after Mahdavi Kani declared his intention. Mahdavi Kani was a follower of the founder of the Islamic revolution, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, years before the triumph of the revolution in 1979. Before serving as acting prime minister in early 80s, he shortly served as interior minister. He is the current chairman of Imam Sadaq University where many serving Iranian diplomats studied. The cleric also heads the Association of Militant Clergy, a conservative clerical organisation whose many of its members are holding key regime posts. Rafsanjani, who was president from 1989 to 1997, is considered a moderate and pragmatic conservative. But he has never hidden his disdain for President

Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, who defeated him in the 2005 presidential election. His fallout with Ahmadinejad began when he indirectly offered support for opposition leader Mir Hossein Mousavi at the 2009 presidential poll. Ahmadinejad's victory in the poll, which was hotly disputed by Mousavi and another losing candidate, Mehdi Karroubi, sparked mass demonstrations in the streets, with protesters demanding a new election be held. In the aftermath of the riots, in which dozens were killed and hundreds arrested, Rafsanjani made headlines by calling for political freedoms and for the release of political prisoners. He repeated the calls on a number of occasions, triggering the wrath of hardliners. He also came under harsh criticism from conservatives, who demanded that he publicly condemn the two opposition leaders. The calls grew more strident when anti-government demonstrations resumed mid-February. In a gradual about-turn which some say was due to increasing pressure from hardliners, Rafsanjani, who also heads the Expediency Council, another key institution of the Islamic republic, finally distanced himself from the opposition. He more recently condemned the opposition protests and, referring to Karroubi and Mousavi, said the "leaders of sedition ... best served America and the Zionist regime." One of Rafsanjani's sons, Mohsen Hashemi, resigned on Saturday as chairman of Tehran's metro, reportedly under pressure from the municipality by the government of Ahmadinejad. Hashemi was reportedly at odds with Ahmadinejad, resulting in the metro not receiving the government subsidies it was allocated. Faezeh Hashemi, Rafsanjani's outspoken daughter, was briefly detained after "leading anti-revolutionaries and rioters" in Tehran protests on February 20. Rafsanjani's other son, Mehdi, who is outside Iran, has an arrest warrant issued against him over his supposed role in the post election protests, though it has never been executed. Source: Al-Jazeera

Death penalty for India train blaze In Indian court has sentenced 11 people to death for setting a train on fire in 2002, an incident that killed more than 50 people and sparked some of the country's worst religious rioting. The ruling on Tuesday comes a week after 31 Muslims were found guilty on conspiracy and murder charges related to the train fire in Godhra in the western state of Gujarat. The other 20 convicts were sentenced to life imprisonment, JM Panchal, the special public prosecutor, said. He said the judge felt the crimes fell "under the category of the rarest of the rare". "There was an active role, as far as these people are concerned, in the conspiracy and also setting fire to the coach," he said. The death sentences must be confirmed by a higher court, and all of those convicted have 90 days to appeal their sentence. The train fire, which killed 59 Hindu pilgrims, sparked an anti-Muslim backlash that saw Hindu mobs rampaging through Muslim neighbourhoods in three days of fighting, which left more than 1,000 people dead. Although Hindus blamed Muslims for the fire, Muslims

Clark : Continued from pg 1 every aspect of government is thinking about families as it formulates its decisions.” Ms. Clark signalled that lowering taxes for families would be a priority. While the government has touted its personal-income-tax rates as the lowest in the country, Ms. Clark argued taxpayers are really in the middle of the pack, nationally, when it comes to their total tax load. “One of the things that government needs to start doing is, rather than just talking about where our tax rates are,” she said, is look at “where are we in terms of the total burden of costs that government puts on citizens.” BC Hydro, after allowing capital investments to lag for more than a decade, is now embarking on a series of major capital investments of roughly $2-billion annually. It has projected it will have to hike electricity rates dramatically to pay for the improvements. Hydro’s investments include an $800-million seismic upgrade to the Ruskin dam – a small Fraser Valley power station that will produce power for just 33,000 homes. As well, it is launching a $1-billion smart-meter program that

have always denied setting the train ablaze. The state government, which has been controlled by the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has been accused by the opposition and sections of the media of not doing enough to stop the violence and of even stoking it. Narendra Modi, Gujarat's chief minister and a prominent member of the BJP, was accused of failing to stop the riots, and even of encouraging them. Gujarat officials have denied the claims. Last month an Indian supreme court panel criticised Modi for his "partisan" handling of the unrest, but found no evidence to justify criminal prosecution of him. A national enquiry into the fire concluded the fire was an accident, but other official investigations have differed in their findings. A total of 94 people, all Muslims, had stood trial at the court in Gujarat's biggest city, Ahmedabad, in a case that lasted nearly nine years. They had been detained since 2002. The judge acquitted 63 of them last week. Source: Al-Jazeera

has been exempt from review by the utility’s watchdog. The utility’s costs are not only driven by capital costs, however. BC Hydro’s payroll has increased by 52 per cent in just three years, from 2006-2009. The Finance Ministry has not included hydro rates when it compares B.C.’s taxes to other provinces. “Government has to think more holistically about those costs,” Ms. Clark said. She also said she won’t throw out the budget that was tabled on Feb. 12, although it includes a six-percent hike in MSP costs for British Columbians who pay them. But she may well bring in a new budget – or even call a provincial election – after a June 24 referendum on the harmonized sales tax. Ms. Clark, who does not yet have a seat in the legislature, has suggested she favours an early election, but it won’t be until after the referendum. And although she wants to win a seat in the House, she still hasn’t figured out where she would run. Premier Gordon Campbell, who will officially hand over the reins next Monday, has offered to step down in the riding of Vancouver-Point Grey. “That seems a likely option,” she said. “Although we’ll see what happens.” Source: Globe and Mail

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AU troops killed in Somalia clashes At least 50 African Union (AU) peacekeepers have died in fighting in Somalia in a major offensive against al-Shabab fighters, officials have told news agencies. The fighting started two weeks ago in the Horn of African nation which has had no central government for two decades and is struggling to rein in the group, the former military wing of the deposed Islamic Court Union. Two Nairobi-based diplomats, speaking on condition of anonymity, said at least 43 Burundian and 10 Ugandan troops have been killed since February 18, citing information from people involved in the operation. The AU force, known as AMISOM, has publicly confirmed only a handful of deaths since the fighting broke out. The Associated Press news agency said on Saturday that the AU appeared to be trying to conceal losses due to political considerations in Burundi, one of two nations providing the bulk of the forces that are fighting alongside Somali troops. An AU spokesman in neighbouring Kenya's capital, Nairobi, did not answer calls on Friday and Burundi's government spokesman was unavailable for comment. Military officers in Burundi's capital, Bujumbura, confirmed the death of the 43 Burundi soldiers, adding that 110 others were wounded. "In reality, 43 soldiers of the Burundi contingent ... have been killed, another four are missing and 110 were wounded during the last joint offensive ... in Mogadishu," a senior officer who declined to be named due to the sensivity of the issue said. "The majority of these soldiers were killed on the first day of the offensive. They came upon many insurgents at a major target located near the former defence ministry which we conquered." The officer added: "The troops' morale is good despite these losses which are the worst since we have been deployed in Somalia, because we achieved our goals." Meanwhile, an AU commander said on Saturday that his forces had captured a key position from alShabab in the capital Mogadishu. Major-General Nathan Mugisha said the soldiers had captured the former ministry of defence building in the north of the city, gaining control of a major al-Shabab base. "By taking these positions we have effectively reduced their freedom of manoeuvre in that sector," Mugisha told a news conference in Nairobi. "This peace in Mogadishu comes at a price, and this burden has fallen heavily on AMISOM and government forces." Earlier, al-Shabab fighters were forced to abandon their positions in Belet Hawo, a town which borders Kenya, said Sharif Abdiwahid Sharif Aden, a spokesman for pro-government armed forces. The latest offensive aims to break al-Shabab's hold on large swathes of the country's south and central regions. The group - which has instituted a Taliban-style system of rule, with strict edicts enforced by its own courts and public executions - has boxed in the government to just a few city blocks of Mogadishu. The transitional government has been promising a full-scale war against al-Shabab for years, but co-ordination among its poorly trained, seldom-paid government forces has delayed that push. A report last month by the think-tank International Crisis Group described the government as being on "life support". Source: Al-Jazeera

Libya : Continued from pg 1 government claims it has taken back the coastal town of Bin Jawad after heavy shelling there. Gaddafi himself remains as defiant as ever, saying the Libyan people will take up arms if western powers get involved in events in Libya. On Wednesday, three of his private planes left Tripoli. At least one of them, carrying a high-ranking official for talks with the head of the Arab League, landed in the Egyptian capital, Cairo. Earlier, in his second televised speech in as many days, Gaddafi once again alleged involvement of foreigners in the rebellion against his more than 41-year-old rule. In an address on state TV early on Wednesday he warned of a plot to colonise Libya. As proof, he said his security forces had captured several foreigners during a raid on Monday. His address followed an offer by the rebels, granting him a safe exit. The offer came amid reports that Gaddafi had sent feelers to the opposition movement, expressing willingness to negotiate his exit. Unconfirmed reports indicated that Gaddafi was willing to step down in return for having war crimes charges against him dropped and a guaranteed safe exit for him and his family. He also reportedly wanted guarantees from the UN that he will be allowed to keep his money. Libyan state television has, however, denied the reports. An official from the Libyan foreign ministry described the reports as "absolute nonsense". Hoda Abdel-Hamid, Al Jazeera's correspondent in the eastern city of Benghazi, said she was hearing conflicting accounts of what happened. Source: Al-Jazeera

Issue 279 - Rabi ul Thani 6, 1432 / March 11, 2011 THE

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DEGENERATING MID-EAST SITUATION Nothing is constant but change; remains an accepted reality. Having exhausted their patience for many decades of status quo, a boiling point is a natural phenomenon. Zero freedom, massive unemployment, rampant poverty and hunger in wealthy countries make no sense at all. Enough is enough for the sufferers and now the ongoing tug o war among the unhappy public and the oppressive regimes in the Middle Eastern/North African (MENA) countries is the ground reality. It's getting real ugly, messy, nasty and extremely scary. It is almost impossible to distinguish between military and militancy. Initially, the riots in Tunisia and Egypt stimulated discontent almost in the entire Arab land. The youth have been wide awake against human rights violations in Tunisia, Egypt, Libya, Yemen, Algeria and Bahrain. As a result, the oppressed Arab world has become defiant and gone furious enough to get going on gun-fighting spree. Furthermore, the defecting soldiers make it even harder for the government soldiers to revert the fatal scenario at this stage. As the virus of rebellion has gripped many Middle Eastern Autocracies. Colonel Qaddafi is in trouble too. The militant public is well positioned to strategically target the government troops left and right with much ease. Surprisingly, the rebels are dangerously armed with rocket launchers, surface-toair missile launchers, anti-aircraft guns and tanks. Opposition forces are gaining momentum. On the other hand, Libyan Air Force has been bombing and tear gassing the defiant public, yet the opposition forces are calling for the Libyan leader's ouster at the earliest. The public and the youth are asking for complete elimination of autocratic rulers

in the region to regain the lost social justice, democracy and freedom. After decades of unpopular rule, political and economic reforms in Egypt and Tunisia are underway, while Libya is going through the pain of civil war and anarchy facing the worst uprising ever costing lives, movable and immovable property. However, Government of Libya tightened its hold on the capital Tripoli, the Libyan soldiers made an intensified assault on town of Zawiya to reclaim the fallen city. Yet at the same time, rebel fighters went on the offensive in central Libya, attacking regime forces to win oil port Brega. As the intense fighting is going on in Libyan cities, Bahrain, Yemen, Algeria are struggling to defuse the anger of their public to escape any potential hazard. The bloodiest uprising against the rulers in the Middle East and North Africa is causing a humanitarian crisis, especially on the Tunisian border where tens of thousands of foreign workers have fled for safety. It seems certain that the autocratic rulers have no choice but to leave. Most probably, anti Saudi elements have already attempted to circumvent the country's strict rules and regulations to trigger chaos in the country to achieve their objectives, yet, Shariah laws, local customs and traditions in the Kingdom prohibit demonstrations or protests. Even abetting of such activity or encouragement thereof clearly breaches the law; and also encroaches upon the rights of others. Most importantly, the Saudi security forces have been given the green light to take all precautionary measures to deal with those who want to undermine the country's security and apply laws against them. The Saudis claim that security is essential for people to enjoy peaceful and prosperous lives, prevent blood-

Congratulations and Thank you

Remembering the past By M R Malick, Travel Consultant Gaba Travel Ltd.

By: Aamir Muneer, Delta

I am recalling the days 10 years back, when the founder of Miracle Mr Nusrat Hussain was standing outside the Richmond and trying to introduce his bi-weekly newspaper to the Pakistani community. Finally he introduced this to the community and when Mr Naseer Pirzada joined this media, the struggle became more effective. During this period of 10 Years, they faced many ups and downs but finally now this media is well established and this credit goes to Mr Pirzada and his family members too. May God Almighty give them more strength and unity to continue this business to their forth coming generation. Ameen"

My congratulations on a wonderful 10th anniversary edition of The Miracle Newspaper! You and your family and the entire Miracle team deserve enormous respect, appreciation and credit for your tireless devotion and passion in providing such a thoroughly informative and community focused publication. May Allah bless all of you with continuous and ever growing success (Ameen). I would also like to thank you, for displaying my design idea so prominently in the newspaper. I am overwhelmed and humbled that you would think so well of my work to grace it on an entire page of the newspaper. Right inside the front page in fact! I was quite

Founder : Nusrat Hussain Miracle Media Group Inc. ©

Contact Info Mailing and Office Address

9160-136A Street Surrey bc. v3v 7z8 canada Fax: 604-582-7809 Phone: 604-690-0400

Managing Editor: M. Naseer Pirzada Sub-Editors: Misbah & Sabeeh Hon. Chief Editor & Urdu Editor Mohammad Rafiq Advertising Ph: 604-690-0400 Email: naseer@telus.net

shed, protect wealth, promote trade and ensure the protection of rights. Just in time, a majority of Saudis have already commended the regime's efforts to enhance the progress and prosperity of its people. Therefore, Saudi kingdom still stands a good chance of survival for a number of reasons: The king has been lately providing his people. King Abdullah recently announced a handsome welfare package worth SR110 billion, including a 15% pay raise for public employees. Social insurance benefits for the poor have been substantially enhanced. Prisoners held for minor crimes have been released. Prices of consumer goods in the Kingdom are lower. No complaints. In the past, the trend in the Middle Eastern countries has been to hire foreign workers, but now there is a shift in hiring practices just to silence the local population through accommodating them against any job vacancies. Nevertheless, reality bites, as most companies feel more comfortable to hire foreigners for their professionalism, competitiveness, efficiency, productivity and hard work. Current circumstances would negatively impact the overall global economic health for years. The autocratic regimes in the affected regions have been holding stakes worth $320 billion in publicly traded firms, either directly or through rulers and sovereign funds. But, the present deteriorating condition in oil-producing regions is highly inflammable and unnerving indeed. The scenario can be best described as "a turmoil leading to expensive oil" for the whole world as the crude oil price is sky rocketing with no end in sight in the near future. Hence, there is a golden opportunity for profiteering, yet a bad news for the consumers. More worrisome is the increased production in the "arms and

miraclenews@telus.net

pleasantly surprised. It was truly very generous and kind of you to do so. I'm quite speechless what to say.... Thank you so much for your energetic spirit and ceaseless passion for your work. You're an inspiration to all of us!

It’s a Miracle! By: Intikhab Ahmed, Surrey This seems to just like yesterday, when Mr. Nusrat Hussain handed me a copy of Miracle newspaper to me in front of a bank in strawberry Hill area in Surrey, B.C. I congratulated him for taking a big and first step, to give an independent English newspaper to the Pakistani community. That was a miracle then and now miracle is happening every fortnight. This newspaper under the guidance of Mr. Naseer Pirzada and Mr. Mohammed Rafiq and their advisory team & regular writers are keeping the community informed. To add Urdu pages was a great decision by the

Website:

Waan laysa lil insani illa ma’ sa’aa That man can have nothing but what he strives for.

Attention: The opinions expressed herein contain positions and viewpoints that are not necessarily those of ‘The Miracle’. These are offered as a means for ‘The Miracle’ to stimulate dialogue and discussion in our continuing mission of ‘Bringing Harmony To All The Communities.’ Email:

ammunition" industry which is probably employing millions to kill millions - of course. Last year, MENA countries produced 22.7 million barrels per day. Now the deadly revolt is ripping through the OPEC-member country (LIBYA) destroying almost 1/2 of its 1.6 million barrels per day output, if the present scenario is allowed to linger on without a fix on urgent basis, another "global economic recession" is imminent. Talking about foreign intervention at this point is not a good sell, because that would escalate the crisis - hurting the already bleeding Arabs. Actually, the people deserve to be heard, as "people's free will" always prevails in the end. Nevertheless, the Arab League and the OIC are obligated to resolve the crises as soon as possible. Sadly, in order to hide the looted national treasure, the so called Muslim dictators/autocrats are unethically involved with foreign banking for their personal gain. The misappropriated national money in billions and billions of dollars becomes legally frozen in foreign lands as soon as the said Ruler steps down after losing his legitimacy. Thus, the nation is further victimized/ deprived due to flight of money. The question is - whether the people would ever get out of repression to enjoy real freedom and better lives, or would it be just a shift from one regime to another illegitimate ruler? Only time will tell.

www.miraclenews.com

Miracle. Readers from Pakistani origin, and Urdu lovers from all over the world are keen to read Urdu articles in Urdu section, where Urdu language spoken, written and read. I met an elderly person at Jamia Masjid parking lot. He was from the Indian Punjab, and was in his eighties. I asked him, “Sardar Ji, can I help you?” He looked at me and asked if he can get an Urdu newspaper. I asked him to come back on Friday, he will be able to have one. Miracle newspaper has built bridges among readers from all over subcontinent origin. All the sections in the newspapers are completely, up to the task, “Awaze Peer” an Urdu editorial section keeps us informed within the community and at large Canadian & international issues. At the end I will request the Miracle media inc. to increase circulation and start weekly edition, at the end I will say it’s a miracle that his Miracle have stayed on its footings for so long, and I pray for long life of Miracle.

Cotents Editorial & Letters Int. News Local Articles Interview Faith Politics Lifestyle Sports Classified /Cont. Urdu

7 5,6 10,11,12,13 14. 25 ........ 8 16 25 26 27 28-40

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In Search of the Prophet By: Sadullah Khan O Prophet of Allah, where shall I find the source of my adoration for you? I have memorized hundreds of your sayings since my youth, taught your seerah (example) to numerous students, grown a beard, used the miswaaq, sang and proudly taught others odes (qasidahs) in praise of you. But I did not find you in these rituals nor did any of these make me any more like you; rather they merely flung me into the fray of insignificant debates in the arena of so many of the sunnahless Muslims who see your sunnah only as an endless array of harsh laws and practices or as some justification for their cultural tendencies. O Allah, save me from being of those who consider the sunnah of Thy beloved as being expressed only through aimless imitations and who know Thy Prophet only as a conveyor of commands and warnings. O Prophet of Allah, I did not truly find you in the books of fatawa (religious edicts), nor in grand seminars and conferences throughout the world, and certainly not in the harsh arguments between groups proclaiming mutually exclusive rights over you. I found my source of adoration for you in the love and respect that the Almighty has proclaimed for you; in the honor that He bestowed upon you; in His confirmation of you as "the ultimate exemplar"; "seal of

Prophets" and "mercy unto all existence". Allah has elevated the very memory of you and has made His boundless love accessible through obedience to you. I catch but a dimension of you through the instances of compassion you extended to others; how you played with the poor orphaned boy when other children refused to play with him, how you prolonged your prostration out of consideration that your change in posture may inconvenience or hurt your beloved grandson who had climbed on your back; how you commanded your army away from the anthill in order not to disrupt the ants' activities; how you blessed with Paradise the sinful woman for saving the life of a cat by making the water of the well accessible with her shoes; how you intervened and prevented a man from abusing his wife by teaching him that "the best of men are those who treat their wives the best"; how you patched your clothes, mended your shoes and did your daily household chores; how you wrestled with your nephew and raced with your wife; how you joked with the kids and carried the baggage of the elderly; how you hosted the Christians of Najran in your mosque and stood up to honor the bier of a Jew. O Prophet of Allah, why is it that so many of us who claim to be of you refuse to be like you. We sing for you and dress like you, but do not come near fulfilling the expression of

Congratulations Miracle! By: Kamal Rashid As usual I got my paper from the mosque and want to congratulate you for this wonderful achievement. The Printing, set up, articles and colors are all outstanding. I can only say May Allah bless Miracle and wish you many many more anniversaries. I fully understand how difficult task is to compete with others but you have undoubtedly shown that. ‘MIRACLE IS THE BEST AND WILL ALWAYS REMAIN’ (Inshallah)

Dictators in Muslim Countries By: Hossain Chow I appreciate the article written by Dr Abdullah in Miracle’s 10th anniversary issue, the headline says about Dictators/Kingdoms in Muslim countries. The writer nicely focused on the political problems of ME Muslim countries. They are ruled by dictators or kings, who keep people around them from their own tribes, family members, relatives, etc. He mentioned about seven decades but I would say more; we Muslims are centuries behind in some practical aspects, one of them is organization or how to pursue a common mission/vision collectively by a group of interrelated depts. /organs of unrelated people. Our minds are still living in the Caliphate ages when a ruler was also rule maker, but now-a-days we need different governing bodies, from a few hundred parliamentarian law makers to a few dozen executive ministers, etc. I remember I was student when a gulf Muslim country first time allowed women to vote! Dear editor, you gave me a hard time and may be to some other readers as well, the article continues to a different page with wrong page number, I thought you didn't publish the reminder by mistake, I was lost in the middle of so much interest. Few days later I did full review of that Miracle copy and found the rest in a different page :) The writer is from USA as introduced at the

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(Peace Be Upon Him) love, care and beauty that generated from yourself. Why is it that we see in you that which suits our cultural, organizational and chauvinistic interests, yet ignore the essence of what is essential to your being. Others who are not of you proclaim the multidimensional and multi-faceted nature of your personality. "The personality of Muhammad is most difficult to get the whole truth of it. Only a glimpse of him I can catch. What dramatic succession of picturesque scenes? There is Muhammad the Prophet; there is Muhammad the General; Muhammad the King; Muhammad the Warrior; Muhammad the Businessman; Muhammad the Preacher; Muhammad the Philosopher; Muhammad the Statesman; Muhammad the Orator; Muhammad the Reformer; Muhammad the Refuge of Orphans; Muhammad the Protector of Slaves; Muhammad the Emancipator of Women; Muhammad the Judge; Muhammad the Saint.. In all these magnificent roles and in all these departments of human activities he is equally a hero." (Professor Ramakrishna Rao). O Prophet! Your life-example is an integrated biography, history and law; it is above all a model of excellence. O Prophet of Allah, you have certainly been adored by many much more worthy than I. Yet, neither the inability to capture my appreciation of you with the eloquence of poets

Volume 1, Book 2, Number 11: Narrated Abu Musa: Some people asked Allah's Apostle, "Whose Islam is the best? i.e. (Who is a very good Muslim)?" He replied, "One who avoids harming the Muslims with his tongue and hands." nor my weakness as a believer debars me from qualifying as one who adores you; for in the commemoration of your being do I find the dignity and honor of my existence. Sa'dullah Khan is the Director of Islamic Center of Irvine. He has presented lectures on Islamic Civilization at California State University at Dominguez Hills. He is a frequent lecturer for the Academy of Judaic, Christian and Islamic Studies at UCLA (University of California, Los Angeles). He is also an advisor to the Chancellor's Committee on Religion Ethics and Values at UCLA and serves as Director of Muslim Affairs at USC (University of Southern California).

The people of the Middle East heard so many promises end, however before end of the from the Western powers to help the populace improve article I understood he is a their lives but all that really materialized was that the leaned intellectual person, he is West supplied the Arab dictators with arms and supDr. Let him know this appreciaplies and gave them instruction on how to stay in tion. We are lucky we are enjoyBy: Mehboob Hajee, Surrey power. Whomever the West suspected of being terroring freedom of speech in nonFor more than 30 years, the Western counists, was captured and sent back to their countries of Muslim countries; many Muslim tries, principally, USA and Canada, have been origin to be tortured, as torture was not legal in the countries don't allow this. Like visiting Mideast dictators to promote trade West. A classic example is that of Maher Arar, born in him we should use more of our with their countries. The politicians were Syria, Canadian citizen, sent back to Syria where he was intellectual power or knowledge normally accompanied by the tycoons of tortured for over one year. Other examples will be and less of our agitation or industries, usually oil, armaments and confound in sites such as Wikileaks. motor nerve. While writing this struction, and manufacturing. Contracts were email the only Christian minister signed and the wealth of the mid east counin a Muslim country has been tries was slowly but surely siphoned off into gunned down. the West by such lucrative contracts. We do not publish anonymous letters or the letSome Muslim events in Surrey Amazingly, the majority of the refugees from ters of the people who do not disclose their identiBC are portraying a lot of emoty to ‘The Miracle.’ A writer can use a pen name tional agitation which may create the mid east countries to the Western countries based their refugee claims on human trouble for us in future. Once or request ‘The Miracle’ to withhold his / her rights abuses. But the Western countries usuwhile going to an event I saw a identity. Please include your daytime telephone ally turned a blind eye to those problems as Muslim's car (in long kurta and number for the confirmation of your letter. We long as there was a flow of wealth from their beard) blew up a stop sign in regret the inconvenience. countries into the West. Newton area, then evaded my right-of-way. Then he came out of the car before it was fully parked. In the same place there were halfdressed girls coming out of Note: * Day Light Saving starts from Sunday, March 13, 2011 Newton pool, I was thinking who should be more civilized here. Minutes later Asr Maghrib R.Ul-II Fajar Sunrise Zawa1 Dhuhr March8 Day Isha I saw him in the center 4:21 07 6:16 6:32 212:22 12:29 Fri 4:54 11 stage with mic, delivering 7:46 speech, and then I felt 29292208 6:18 6:30 12:22 12:29 4:22 12 Sat 4:52 7:48 sorry. He was a visiting *09 *7:28 *01:22 *01:29 *5:23 *7:20 *5:50 *13 *Sun *8:49 scholar cleric from UK, I 5:25 10 7:21 7:26 01:22 01:29 14 Mon 5:48 8:51 am afraid of what direction 11 7:23 our community may go in 7:24 01:21 01:28 5:26 5:45 15 Tue 8:52 this country. 5:27 12 7:24 7:22 01:21 01:28 5:43 16 Wed 8:54 Since becoming a student 5:28 13 7:26 7:20 17 Thu 5:41 01:21 01:28 8:56 approx 25 years ago, I am 14 7:27 7:17 01:20 01:27 5:30 Fri 5:39 18 8:57 working with non-Muslim 5:31 bosses, co-workers, 15 7:29 7:15 01:20 01:27 19 Sat 5:37 8:59 employers and we face 16 7:30 7:13 01:20 01:27 5:32 Sun 5:34 20 9:00 embarrassing questions or 5:33 17 7:32 7:11 01:19 01:26 21 Mon 5:32 9:02 examples. I strongly feel we 5:34 18 7:33 7:09 22 Tue 5:30 01:19 01:26 9:04 Muslims should concentrate more on practical 19 7:35 7:07 01:19 01:26 5:36 23 Wed 5:28 9:05 aspects, such as: how to 5:37 20 7:37 7:04 01:19 01:26 24 Thu 5:25 9:07 negotiate on table without 5:38 21 7:38 7:02 5:23 25 Fri 01:18 01:25 9:09 sword or agitation, how to respect the opinion of Source: Masjid Al Noor majority, how to differentiate culture from religion, etc. Allah bless you,

Western Relations with the Middle East

important note:

From March 11 - 25 , 2011 (Rabi ul Thani- 6, 1432H)

AQEEM USS SALAAT(Establish Prayer)

Issue 279 - Rabi ul Thani 6, 1432 / March 11, 2011 THE

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Issue 279 - Rabi ul Thani 6, 1432 / March 11, 2011 THE

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United Muslims celebrate Milad-Un-Nabi(SAW) in Vancouver On March 5, the United Muslims group celebrated Milad-Un-Nabi at Renfrew Community Center in Vancouver. It was an auspicious night with the blessing of prophet Mohammed (S.A.W). M/C Mr. Tariq Din started this program and called Mohsin Chaudhry for Tilawat-eQuran. Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s of Din and Khan family presented Naats and also Hamds (praise to Allah). Guest speakers included Mufti Shujat Ali from BCMAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Masjid ul Haq at Welwyn Street in Vancouver. He spoke about the life of Prophet Mohammad (SAW) and his teachings in the light of Quran and Sunnah in detail. The second speaker was Imam Fode Drame who delivered few words on Seerat of beloved prophet Mohammed (PBUH) and his highest rank in mankind. Haji Rahman Ali was also invited to speak at the event. He mentioned that that Milad of Nabi

(SAW) is the greatest gift of Allaw SWT. The teaching of the prophet (SAW) converted the evil doers into pious people who subsequently changed the entire history of jahalia. He quoted few examples, and also recited a Naat. The night ended with special Naats from Brother Salis and Brother Ismail Rajput that left not a single dry eye in the gathering. Haji Karamud Din and his grandson Yousef Ali recited salaam and were joined by Brs. Salis, Ismail Rajput while Haji Rahman Ali ended with Duaa. The food was prepared by brother Riaz Khan of Evergreen Punjabi Corner Inc. The sponsors of the Milad were Haji Rahman Ali and Haji Karamud Din. The food was served by volunteers, with a special thanks to Brother Ashiq Ali Din.

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Issue 279 - Rabi ul Thani 6, 1432 / March 11, 2011 THE

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Legendary Naat Khawan Junaid Jamshed attracts over thousand at Crystal @York By Misbah Naseer Junaid Jamshed is no stranger to fame. In the late 80’s he stormed the Pakistani music scene and quickly rose as the top pop singer of the country. At the beginning of the century, he was at the top of his game, selling millions of albums and receiving world recognition. Then, in 2004, people around the world witnessed the transformation of this singer into a devout Muslim who dedicated himself to the cause of spreading the name of Allah (SWT) and message of Islam. The clean-shaved, long haired celebrity pop star was gone, and now emerged a bearded man singing praises only to Allah (SWT) and his Prophet (SW). Many in the newer generation, including Jamshed’s younger children, now only know him as someone who sings Naats and Nasheeds and spreads the message of Islam. On March 5, The BC Institute of Higher Islamic Studies organized a special evening with Jamshed at Crystal @York Banquet Hall in Surrey. This was the second time Jamshed had made a stop in Vancouver. Once again, the event garnered a lot of interest and was attended by over thousand people, including men, women and youth. Men and women were seated in separate halls and women were

able to watch the speaker on TV screens across the hall. Presidents and board of directors of many Muslim associations, including the BCMA, and Imams of masajid, attended this program. The MC of the program was Mufti Asim Nazir. The program started with the recitation of the holy verses from the Qur’an by Mufti Asim Nazir, followed by an introduction of the chief guest. Jamshed told the audience about his journey from a pop singer to a religious speaker inviting people to Islam (dawah). He explained the unexpected events that led his attendance at a Tableegh Ijtemaa and gave him the blessed opportunity to be in the company of renowned Muslim scholars. Throughout the presentation, he admired the support he has received from different scholars. He also mentioned some of the obstacles he faced in this journey. When he decided to break all singing contracts and refused to do concerts, he faced heavy fines by the sponsors. To return this money, he and his family even had to sell their family home and the family was literally hand to mouth. During this journey, there were many temptations, especially when big sums of money were being offered

for a single song at the time he did not have a single cent. He emphasized that Allah (SWT) returned everything to him and his family gradually. He entered into a business of sewing and selling Shalwar Qameez which is now thriving. Therefore, no one should think they would lose everything if they follow the path of Allah (SWT) and Dawah. Firm belief in Allah (SWT) is the sole requirement for undertaking this journey. Jamshed also expressed his gratitude for the immense support he received from his family, particularly his wife. Many women in the audience appreciated the valuable advice he gave to married men about respecting their wives and following the example of our beloved prophet Mohammed (PBUH) as he conducted himself with his wives. While he described his spiritual journey, Junaid Jamshed also recited many Naats and Nasheeds in his heart-touching voice at intervals. He mentioned that Naats in Urdu language are like reciting Darood on the Holy Prophet (SW). The entire presentation increased interest of many in become involved in Dawah, and was an overall inspiration for everyone to become a better Muslim.

the project by PICS Director, Devinder Chattha followed by a brief talk by PICS C.E.O., Mr. Charan Gill and BCMA president, Hashmat Ali who welcomed all present at the event. Musa Ismail Vice President Planning and Development in his welcome address welcomed all the participants to the Surrey Delta Branch of BCMA. He thanked the organizers and provided a brief overview of the ongoing BCMA projects. It was then followed by two presentations by Muslim Scholar Mufti Aasim Rashid. The first presentation gave an Introduction to Islam; the second presentation highlighted the contribution of Muslims to the society. The talk was followed by a Question and Answer Session. Many people got the opportunity to get answers about Muslim Identity and Muslim practices from Imam Aasim Rashid. Councillor Marvin Hunt also spoke at the event stressing on the importance of such projects and their sustainability. He thanked the organizers. Facilitator Waqar Ahmad Jan gave information about the Interfaith Bridging Project called ACED, “Accepting Cultures and Embracing Diversities” funded by Embrace BC. The aim of this project is to create awareness about the diverse populations of British Columbia and dispel myths about one’s religion and culture. This in turn will create an environment where stereotyping is minimized and an inclusive community is created. He also thanked the BCMA for hosting this important event and urged the organizers to continue these interfaith engagements to build more understanding. He particularly thanked Br. Hashmat Ali for his leadership, Br. Basharat Sidhu and Br. Haqiq with all the young volunteers who helped out in the event.

PICS hosts workshop on Islam as part of Interfaith Bridging Project By: Waqar Jan On February 26, Progressive Intercultural Community Services Society (PICS) organized a workshop on Islam as a part of their Interfaith Bridging Project – Accepting Cultures and Embracing Diversity at the Surrey Jamia Masjid. The event was hosted in collaboration with the BC Muslim Association. The event was attended by people from Muslim, Hindu, Sikh and Christian faiths. The attendees included the Pakistan Canada Association, Pakistani Canadian Cultural Association, Vedic Hindu Society, Vishva Hindu Parishad, Sahaja Yoga Group and representatives from various churches in the area. The event was also attended by MLA’s Harry Bains, and Bruce Ralston. City of Surrey Councillor Marvin Hunt was also present. The event started with an introduction to

Issue 279 - Rabi ul Thani 6, 1432 / March 11, 2011 THE

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Surrey Women in Business Award Winners Announced by the Surrey Board of Trade The Surrey Board of Trade is proud to announce the winners of the 2nd Annual Surrey Women in Business Awards held on March 9, 2011 at the Sheraton Vancouver Guildford Hotel in Surrey, BC. Over 300

people attended the event, sponsored by the LaLiberté Investment Team at Dundee Wealth. Featured Keynote speaker was former CEO of Starbucks USA, COO of 1800-GOT-JUNK, and now CEO of First

West Credit Union. The event was MC’d by Global TV’s Steve Darling. The judging panel reviewed the careers of these women and based their decisions on their work in Surrey, their business acumen, leadership skills, approach to a balanced lifestyle and community involvement. The winners were: Surrey Board of Trade Surrey Women in Business Awards Entrepreneur Category - Sponsored by A.S. Bubber & Associates Lorraine Duclos, PDQ Post Group Inc. Surrey Board of Trade Surrey Women in Business Awards Professional Category - sponsored by

Simon Fraser University Karen L. Baillie, Laurel Place Surrey Board of Trade Surrey Women in Business Awards Corporate Category - Sponsored by IRLY Distributors Heather Bell, Nav Canada Surrey Board of Trade Surrey Women in Business Awards Leadership Category - Sponsored by the Law Firm of Hamilton Duncan Armstrong & Stewart Jonquil Hallgate, Surrey Urban Mission Surrey Board of Trade Surrey Women in Business Awards Not-for-Profit Category - Sponsored by Whalley Printers Beth Barlow, Surrey Libraries Surrey Board of Trade Surrey Woman in Business Community Achievement Award 2011 Karla Pearson

Muhammad Hassaan wins 3rd prize in Regional Skills Competition

Alanna Dean Burk of PRIME learning Group Inc, daughter of Realtor Feroz Dean, pictured here with her parents, was nominated in the profesional category

Muhammad Hassaan Ghani Sheikh and his team of Princess Margaret Secondary School Surrey won 3rd Place in Regional Skills Competition for Jr. Gravity Vehicle held by Skills Canada BC. Hassaan as leader of the team designed a car named Aireal Ace and competed with many secondary schools around BC.

Issue 279 - Rabi ul Thani 6, 1432 / March 11, 2011 THE

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6th International Eid-Milad-un Nabi(SAW) celebrated by ISCC BC Chapter

On Feb 26, BC Chapter of the Islamic Supreme Council of Canada organized the 6th International Eid-Milad un-Nabi (SAW) Conference in Crystal at York Banquet Hall in Surrey. The conference was overwhelmingly attended by hundreds of men, women and youth. Mr. Haider Khan, director of Islamic Supreme Council of Canada, BC chapter was the Master of the ceremony (MC) of the Conference. The Program started with the recitation of Holy Quran by guest of honor, Qari Syed Fasihuddin Soharwardy. Naat-e- Rasool-e- Maqbool (SAW) was presented by Awais Khan, Mr. Salis Rasool and Mr. Ismail Rajput. Mr. Khan welcomed the participants and recognized the presence of the religious scholars, ule-

mas and distinguished guests. Speeches regarding theme of the conference were delivered by Mr. Ilyas Shareef, Imam Mustafa and Imam Fode Drame. They highlighted Seerat un Nabi, in English with the references of Quran and Sunnah. Maulnan A. Latif Naumani delivered a brief speech in Urdu on Milad un Nabi (saw) and gave his share of time to main speaker. Prof. Syed Badi-ud-Deen Soharwardy, president of Islamic Supreme Council of Canada delivered the keynote address. He shed light on Finality of the Prophethood, the life & teachings of the holy prophet Muhammad (SAW) and the message of Islam to the mankind. He said that we Muslim should make our lives nearer to beloved Mohammad (SAW). He also gave many examples, i.e., Hzt Yahya (A.S) Hst. Huzaifa(r.a) and

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many others. He also emphasized that faith in all Messengers of Allah (SWT) is the part of Iman for every Muslim. At the end of Prof. Soharwardyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s speech, he said that we should unite and act on teachings of Islam and love beloved Prophet as He (pbuh) deserves. The Second session of more than one hour was dedicated to beautiful Naats in the voice of world renowned Naat Khawan, Syed Fasihuddin Soharwardhy. Syed Soharwardy had flown from Pakistan to attend this event. He presented beautiful hamd-e-baari taala, naats and religious poetry as pin-drop silence in the audience proved the mesmerizing power of his voice. A vote of thanks to the participants, scholars, distinguished guests, sponsors, media, volunteers, management of the Crystal banquet hall was

given by Mr.Haider Khan. At the end Dua was offered by Syed Syed Badiud Deen Soharwardy with Darood o Salam.

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MCFD Social Workers and Staff educated about Muslim Culture and Diversity By: David Ali One of many workshops on Muslim Culture Awareness was held on Feb 22 for the Social Workers and frontline staff of the BC Ministry of Children and Family Development. The event was held at the Masjid Al Salaam and Education Centre in Burnaby. It was designed to create awareness and provide a better understanding of Islam and the sensitivity and diversity of the cultural backgrounds of Muslims. The Workshop commenced at 8:30am with breakfast and registration. David Ali, Public Relations of the MCFD Muslim Advisory Committee welcomed close to 100 attendees. Farida Bano Ali, Chair of the MCFD Muslim Advisory Committee spoke about how the cooperation between the MCFD and the Muslim Advisory Committee has benefitted our community since the Workshops have started. A Muslim Foster Parent recruitment Seminar is currently being organized to promote awareness and to help encourage Muslim community members to become foster parents.

As the workshop commenced, MP Peter Julian gave a speech about the Muslim community working together successfully in a diverse society. Burnaby City Councilor Sav Dhaliwal, mentioned that the Muslim Advisory Committee has worked closely with City Hall by taking part in the Sustainability Planning Committee and that David Ali has been appointed as a Burnaby Library Trustee. Dhaliwal also added that Burnaby is where over 100 languages are spoken. Surrey School Board Member Ijaz Chattha stressed the importance of keeping foster children in a familiar environment. And Imtiaz Asin, the BCMA VP of Youth Services highlighted his experiences growing up in a Multicultural Society where he faced many challenges. Sam Rizvi, MCFD Muslim Advisory Committee Coordinator thanked all the participants, speakers, presenters Oves and Anees Wahab and MCFD representative Todd Koverchuk for their attendance. A very special thank you from the MCFD Muslim Advisory Committee goes to the

volunteers and the wonderful catering team headed by Sister Sadrul Buksh of the Burnaby Women’s Branch. In addition, a special acknowledgement is given to the Burnaby Branch for facilitating this work-

shop. The Workshop concluded at 12:30pm for a delicious lunch and Salaah, followed by a tour of the Burnaby Masjid. The evaluation forms demonstrated a very positive feedback of the Workshop.

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Issue 279 - Rabi ul Thani 6, 1432 / March 11, 2011 THE

New Civic Projects Re-Define Surrey and Attract Investment By: Tara Foslien, Senior Communications Specialist On March 1, Mayor Dianne Watts and the City of Surrey kicked off construction of the new Surrey City Hall and Community Plaza at a celebration in City Centre. She said, “We are creating Metro Vancouver’s second downtown core and it’s important to have a civic presence in City Centre, we’re redefining Surrey and positioning ourselves for growth over the next decade. These projects will act as a catalyst to stimulate further private sector investment and job creation, and will enhance the quality of life for our residents.” The new City Hall and Community Plaza are part of the Build Surrey program, the most comprehensive construction and

capital works program in the city’s history. The program will see a variety of community centres, recreation facilities and infrastructure projects built in every town centre over the next ten years to create vibrant, connected, pedestrian-friendly communities. “On behalf of the Downtown Surrey Business Improvement Association, we are excited to see the groundbreaking ceremony for our new City Hall and Community Plaza in City Centre,” says President Bill Rempel. “Surrey is an exciting, dynamic and growth-oriented city and our new City Hall will work as

a catalyst to continue the transformation of our downtown core. As a result of the new City Hall, there will be opportunities for investment, job creation and attracting new people to the area which will result in a positive economic impact for our downtown. We look forward to building a vibrant City Centre with the Mayor, Council and business as we head toward becoming the largest city in the province.” Other Build Surrey projects in City Centre include the new Chuck Bailey Recreation Centre, a new 75,000 square foot regional library currently under

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construction, a covered youth park, a performing arts centre, as well as walking trails and beautification initiatives. In conjunction with the major new residential developments underway, these projects will support new commercial, entertainment, education, civic, and recreation opportunities for residents and businesses in Surrey. Over the next 20 years, Surrey’s population is expected to grow by 200,000 people and City Centre is expected to expand by close to 10,000 residents and 30,000 employees. “City Centre will become the new commercial, cultural and social hub of the city. We are welcoming many other exciting new developments to the area, including an expansion to Surrey Memorial Hospital and Simon Fraser University Surrey Campus, the new Jim Pattison Outpatient Care and Surgery Centre, the new RCMP E Division headquarters, the new main administration building for the Surrey School District, and our new iconic downtown library, which opens later this year.” The new 200,000 square foot City Hall, designed by Kasian/Moriyama & Teshima Architects, will be built on the south side of 104th Avenue, east of University Boulevard, and has a net cost of $50 million. The new Community Plaza will serve as a celebration site capable of accommodating up to 5,000 people.

The Miracle’s Managing editor Mr. Naseer Pirzada also spoke with Dianne Watts at the event and asked her some questions.

Continued on pg 27

Issue 279 - Rabi ul Thani 6, 1432 / March 11, 2011 THE

Getting Your Needs Met By: Shabnam Khan Family Counsellor We all have needs we want fulfilled. Beyond basic human needs for food, water and shelter, human beings posses limitless desires. Many relationships experience challenges because the people within them complain about each other and attempt to get these needs met. Rather than improving things, complains often keep them mired in their current problems and perpetuates their frustrations. Negative communications, such as complaining, can be an important factor in the couple’s relational satisfaction. Research indicates that negativity and negative communication are positively correlated with relational dissatisfaction. People who are in the relationship where there is a lot of complaining tend to be less happy in their relationships. It is not particularly surprising that dis-

tressed couple’s exhibit negativity in the interactions and that these interactions are the source of a lot of negative emotions. Undoubtedly, the negative communication behaviors and negative emotions displayed in these interactions are causally related. Complaining in relationships may begin as a result of one or both people being dissatisfied in the relationship and attempting to get their needs met. Soon, however, the complaining itself becomes the cause of dissatisfaction and escalates it. A “Dissatisfaction - Complaint” loop is created, in which dissatisfaction leads to a complaint. This leads to another complaint, which causes more dissatisfaction, and on it goes. Decreasing negative effect has more effect on improving couples marital happiness than increasing positive effect. Stopping the negativity of complaining does more to improve relationships than does adding positive aspects to the relationship. In other words, it’s more beneficial to the relationship to send kind words than to send flowers. “To Win Without Fighting Is The Best Of Skills.” For further enquiries regarding the services, please contact: shabnamsk@hotmail.com

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Issue 278 - Rabi ul Thani 6, 1432 / March 11, 2011 THE

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Issue 278 - Rabi ul Thani 6, 1432 / March 11, 2011 THE

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Issue 278 - Rabi ul Thani 6, 1432 / March 11, 2011 THE

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Issue 278 - Rabi ul Thani 6, 1432 / March 11, 2011 THE

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Issue 278 - Rabi ul Thani 6, 1432 / March 11, 2011 THE

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Issue 278 - Rabi ul Thani 6, 1432 / March 11, 2011 THE

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Issue 278 - Rabi ul Thani 6, 1432 / March 11, 2011 THE

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The Middle East feminist revolution By Naomi Wolf Among the most prevalent Western stereotypes about Muslim countries are those concerning Muslim women: doe-eyed, veiled, and submissive, exotically silent, gauzy inhabitants of imagined harems, closeted behind rigid gender roles. So where were these women in Tunisia and Egypt? In both countries, women protesters were nothing like the Western stereotype: they were front and centre, in news clips and on Facebook forums, and even in the leadership. In Egypt's Tahrir Square, women volunteers, some accompanied by children, worked steadily to support the protests – helping with security, communications, and shelter. Many commentators credited the great numbers of women and children with the remarkable overall peacefulness of the protesters in the face of grave provocations. Other citizen reporters in Tahrir Square – and virtually anyone with a cell phone could become one – noted that the masses of women involved in the protests were demographically inclusive. Many wore headscarves and other signs of religious conservatism, while others reveled in the freedom to kiss a friend or smoke a cigarette in public. But women were not serving only as support workers, the habitual role to which they are relegated in protest movements, from those of the 1960s to the recent student riots in the United Kingdom. Egyptian women also organized, strategised, and reported the events. Bloggers such as Leil Zahra Mortada took grave risks to keep the world informed daily of the scene in Tahrir Square and elsewhere. The role of women in the great upheaval in the Middle East has been woefully under-analysed. Women in Egypt did not just "join" the protests – they were a leading force behind the cultural evolution that made the protests inevitable. And what is true for Egypt is true, to a greater and lesser extent, throughout the Arab world. When women change, everything changes - and women in the Muslim world are changing radically. The greatest shift is educational. Two generations ago, only a small minority of the daughters of the elite received a university education. Today, women account for more than half of the students at Egyptian universities. They are being trained to use power in ways that their grandmothers could scarcely have imagined: publishing newspapers - as Sanaa el Seif did, in defiance of a government order to cease operating; campaigning for student leadership posts; fundraising for student organisations; and running meetings. Indeed, a substantial minority of young women in Egypt and other Arab countries have now spent their formative years thinking critically in mixed-gender environments, and even publicly challenging male professors in the classroom. It is far easier to tyrannise a population when half are poorly educated and trained to be submissive. But, as Westerners should know from their own historical experience, once you educate women, democratic agitation is likely to accompany the massive cultural shift that follows.The nature of social media, too, has helped turn women into protest leaders. Having taught leadership skills to women for more than a decade, I know how difficult it is to get them to stand up and speak out in a hierarchical organisational structure. Likewise, women tend to avoid the figurehead status that traditional protest has in the past imposed on certain activists – almost invariably a hotheaded young man with a megaphone. In such contexts – with a stage, a spotlight, and a spokesperson – women often shy away from leadership roles. But social media, through the very nature of the technology, have changed what leadership looks and feels like today. Facebook mimics the way many women choose to experience social reality, with connections between people just as important as individual dominance or control, if not more so. You can be a powerful leader on Facebook just

by creating a really big "us". Or you can stay the same size, conceptually, as everyone else on your page – you don't have to assert your dominance or authority. The structure of Facebook's interface creates what brick-andmortar institutions - despite 30 years of feminist pressure - have failed to provide: a context in which women's ability to forge a powerful "us" and engage in a leadership of service can advance the cause of freedom and justice worldwide. Of course, Facebook cannot reduce the risks of protest. But, however violent the immediate future in the Middle East may be, the historical record of what happens when educated women participate in freedom movements suggests that those in the region who would like to maintain iron-fisted rule are finished. Just when France began its rebellion in 1789, Mary Wollstonecraft, who had been caught up in witnessing it, wrote her manifesto for women's liberation. After edu-

cated women in America helped fight for the abolition of slavery, they put female suffrage on the agenda. After they were told in the 1960s that "the position of women in the movement is prone", they generated "second wave" feminism – a movement born of women's new skills and old frustrations. Time and again, once women have fought the other battles for the freedom of their day, they have moved on to advocate for their own rights. And, since feminism is simply a logical extension of democracy, the Middle East's despots are facing a situation in which it will be almost impossible to force these awakened women to stop their fight for freedom – their own and that of their communities. Naomi Wolf is a political activist and social critic whose most recent book is Give Me Liberty: A Handbook for American Revolutionaries.

& Lots of Enjoyment

Meet with Salma Ataullahjan, Canadian Pakistani Senator

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PCWS Celebrates International Women’s Day By Shahnaz Rehman International Women’s Day is annually eld on March 8 to celebrate women’s achievements throughout history and across nations. It is also known as the United Nations (UN) Day for Women’s Rights and International Peace. In honor of the 100th anniversary of the International Women’s Day, the Pakistani Canadian Women’s Society hosted an Educational event for the South Asian Women. The organizers were delighted with the crowd of almost 150 women who attended this first time event. Topics included Parenting, Depression, Self –Esteem, Community Resources and Grooming. All presentations were culturally designed and delivered in Urdu to avoid linguistic barriers for women attending the forum. Saima Naz, Principal of I Learn BC High School and Director of Higher Grade Learning Centre moderated the forum with her wit, zest and enthusiasm. The Program was respectfully started with Tasneem Malik’s recitation of versus from the Holy Quran. Sadia Sameeullah, a Community Counselor from Diversecity, delivered an insightful presentation on parenting. In her presentation she talked about discipline in the Canadian Society and cross cultural boundaries. Dr. Babra Rana enlightened the audience on the stigmatized topic of Depression. She talked about the symptoms and the grim consequences of untreated depression and the cross cultural

analysis of the disease. Shahnaz Rahman of West Coast LEAF acknowledged the underlying social factors that affect women’s self esteem and provided tips on how to overcome the negative self talk. Farah Hasan, a certified makeup artist provided an interactive information session and tips with grooming. She provided simple yet effective solutions for skin care and grooming. Zanbka Malik informed the women of the several activities of PICS. Many of these activities were to raise awareness since they were relevant to the needs of the immigrant and refugee women. The evaluation feedback by many women at the event was very positive who found it to be well organized and well presented. One community organization volunteer said, “I was blown away with the presentations.” This successful educational event would not have been possible, without the support and generosity of Pakistani business leaders and dedicated volunteers in our community. The Association acknowledges support of Pakistan Canada Association, Calgary Sweets House, Pak National & Shan Foods, Parveen Akbar, Nasim Akbar, Farhat Malik. Fareena Malik, Zakia Khan. Rukhsana Shariq, Nasra Mahmood, Almas Ali, Aliya Alam and also youth Volunteers including Hamza Malik. Waseem Javed, Sabeen Habib, Sara Ali, Maria Ali & many others who contributed to the success of this event.

International Women's Day (IWD) International Women's Day (IWD), originally called International Working Women’s Day is marked on March 8 every year. Nowadays this is a major day of global celebration of women. In different regions the focus of the celebrations ranges from general celebration of respect, appreciation and love towards women to a celebration for women's economic, political and social achievements. Started as a Socialist political event, the holiday blended in the culture of many countries, primarily Eastern Europe, Russia, and the former Soviet bloc. In many regions, the day lost its political flavor, and became simply an occasion for men to express their love for women in a way somewhat similar to a mixture of Mother's Day and St Valentine's Day. In other regions, however, the original

political and human rights theme designated by the United Nations runs strong and political and social awareness of the struggles of women worldwide are brought out and examined in a hopeful manner. International Women's Day has been observed since in the early 1900's, a time of great expansion and turbulence in the industrialized world that saw booming population growth and the rise of radical ideologies. However, In 1977, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution calling on member states to proclaim a day for women's rights and international peace. Following the United Nations' lead, Canada chose March 8 as International Women's Day (IWD).Each year at this time, Canadians celebrate progress toward

equality for women and their full participation, reflect on the challenges and barriers that remain, and consider future steps to achieving equality for all women, in all aspects of their lives.Over time, International Women's Day has grown into a week-long series of commemorative events and activities across the country. International Women's Week FACT SHEET about Canadian women • Canadian women have made enormous strides. The current Government has the highest percentage of women in Cabinet in Canadian history. The House of

Minhaj ul Quran Women’s Gosha E Darood By: Sr. Sofia This was the monthly Minhaj ul Quran Women’s Program for the month of March where our sisters came together to recite darood upon the Holy Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him). After the arrival of all the sisters and Asr salat, sisters recited verses of the Holy Quran, recited naats and did group zikr led by Ruqayyah. Sister Shahina Sayeda recited beautiful naats. Sister Aaliya spoke about the Awliya Allah, Sister Nazarana spoke about the need to stay connected to Minhaj ul Quran and sister Fatima gave speech on the love of the Holy Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him). All other sisters also gave their feedback on the

progress of this group under the guidance of Shaykh ul Islam Muhammed Tahir al-Qadri. The program ended with Salam on the Holy Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him).There was a delicious dinner prepared by sister Sofia and was assisted by sister Zarina and sister Hafija was seved to attendees at the end.

Commons currently has 67 women. • Women are also increasing their participation in other aspects of Canadian life. Currently, women make up the majority of full-time students in most university faculties. • he labour force participation rate for working-age women (15-64 years) has risen from 68.2 per cent to 74.3 per cent over the past decade (1997-2008). In 2007, women made up 35 per cent of all selfemployed individuals. • There has also been a long-term increase in the share of women who are working in managerial positions.

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Umar may replace Kamran as wicketkeeper

Pakistan will consider using Umar Akmal as a wicketkeeper in their remaining group games in the World Cup in a bid to offset the disastrous glovework of his elder brother Kamran. Akmal senior missed three chances in Tuesday's big loss to New Zealand, including the centurion Ross

Taylor twice in three balls when he was on 0 and 4. Those chances come on the back of two missed stumpings in the win against Sri Lanka and over four years of constant, error-strewn performances. "It [keeping with Umar] is very much an option and we might try it in the next game," captain Shahid Afridi told Geo News. As a sign of Pakistan's concern over Kamran's form with gloves and bat - he has only three dismissals so far and averages less than 30 as a batsman - Afridi did not rule out the possibility not playing him as a specialist batsman and dropping Kamran altogether. "We have five days now before our next game, so whatever is better for the team we will try it," he said. Kamran is the only specialist wicketkeeper in the squad but Umar kept for the side in one ODI against South Africa last November, after Zulqarnain Haider fled to London. He was also behind the wickets for three T20s in New Zealand soon after. If he is dropped, it will not be

the first time in the last four years it has happened to Kamran. After a promising couple of years as the first-choice replacement for Moin Khan and Rashid Latif, Akmal's performances began to dip on the 2006 trip to England, where he persisted behind the stumps despite a finger injury. But Pakistan stuck with him until June 2008, when Sarfraz Ahmed kept for the side in the Asia Cup. Kamran returned soon after, however, with no discernible improvement in performance. Only in January 2010 was he next axed and it took the monumental failure of the Sydney Test, where he missed five chances in all, for Sarfraz to be flown out for the final Test in Hobart. In Pakistan's next Test against Australia at Lord's last summer, Kamran was back again, however. After three more poor Tests, Zulqarnain Haider came in to replace him, but a contentious finger injury ruled him out after his debut. Yet again, Kamran returned to keep wickets in the

last two Tests of the summer. He was subsequently caught up in the fall-out of the spot-fixing scandal and the PCB refused to clear his selection for the series against South Africa in the UAE and the third Akmal brother, Adnan, took his place in the two Tests. But the board's integrity committee finally cleared him in December, allowing for his selection in the ODI series against New Zealand and the World Cup squad. His long-term future is again under question now. After the game, Waqar Younis, the coach, said "After the World Cup maybe we can think about it, but we are in the middle of the tournament and I don't think we can make such a change right now." Pakistan took a day off from training on Wednesday but the team management said it would sit down and go through the loss and plan for the next game, against Zimbabwe on March 14. Source: Cricinfo

India labour to five-wicket victory India defeated Netherlands on a sluggish track at the Feroz Shah Kotla with nearly 14 overs to spare though the margin of victory couldn't mask a lacklustre performance from the home side. The Indian bowling was just about tidy against some dour Netherlands batting, and their bunch of big hitters came unstuck for a while against the left-arm spin of Pieter Seelaar in a low-intensity match. Chasing 190, India raced out of the blocks with Sachin Tendulkar becoming the first man to reach 2000 World Cup runs with a hat-trick of boundaries in the fifth over, and Virender Sehwag backing that with three more fours in the sixth. The flurry of hitting had the Delhi crowd buzzing, and when Sehwag carved Seelaar over extra cover for six and then dabbed him to third man for four, India were 69/0 in the eighth over and Netherlands looked set for a hiding. Seelaar, though, ensured it wasn't another embarrassingly one-sided match, like many of those involving the Associates in this tournament. He had Sehwag slicing to point, and then dismissed both Tendulkar and the promoted power-hitter Yusuf Pathan in the 10th over to rein in India. Virat Kohli didn't last too long before being bowled by Peter Borren, but Gautam Gambhir and Yuvraj Singh steadied the innings as Netherlands' limited bowling struggled to make more inroads. They added 40 trouble-free runs before Gambhir was bowled round his legs. It was left to Yuvraj and MS Dhoni, India's finishers over the past few years, to calmly steer India to victory with a 61run stand, with Yuvraj getting his third half-century in a row. India would have had a tougher test had it not been for a Netherlands middle-order collapse, which was sandwiched by a solid start and a flourish at the end. On choosing to bat, Eric Szwarczynski, playing his first match of the tournament, combined well with Wesley Barresi to put on 56, equalling Netherlands' best opening partnership in World Cups. There were only six boundaries in the first two Powerplays but aside from a couple of half-chances, it was easy going for Netherlands. Source: Cricinfo

CANUCKS TAKE ON DIVISION RIVAL FLAMES The Vancouver Canucks will travel to Calgary on Saturday for the final game of their five game road trip. The Canucks, who sit comfortably atop the Western Conference, will be facing a surging Flames team fighting for their playoff lives. The Canucks have won three of the four meetings against Calgary this season.

Surrey : Continued from pg 15 TM: Regarding the project, when will it be completed?

DW: This will be finished in 2013. That is why we have the massing we are having right now. We have got the library and City Hall here. That will bring another four thousand people in to this area. Concord is building six towers here and there are number of other investors that are building in the City of Surrey. We are focusing on redeveloping and working with the population and the demographic of the people here. We are also dealing with homeless issues and other issues here. We have got a good outreach team and getting people housed. There are still some issues and anytime you build a city and redevelop an area, you will have these issues. The biggest thing to do is to deal with these issues. TM: There is a lot of concern about homelessness in the city. What are you doing to deal with the issue? Pak_Diamond_Kitchen_cabinets@hotmail.com DW: The city has purchased additional property to deal with Pak Diamond and Kitchen Cabinets is looking for one Full time, Permanent this issue and making sure these laborer for their shop located at # 108, 7750-128 street, Surrey, BC, V3W 0R6. people get the help that they Duties include: assist machine operators, clean work areas and perform need. other labouring activities. English is not a requirement, TM: What do you think about Punjabi (Pakistan) is an asset. the election of Christy Clark as Email resume to: Pak_Diamond_Kitchen_cabinets@hotmail.com Premier of BC?

DW: I am very happy that she won and I think she will do a good job. She has got some challenges ahead of her but it’s about rolling up your sleeves and working together to get the work done. TM: What about the upcoming civic elections? DW: We are going to run again and I am going to run for mayor. My Surrey First team is committed to the city of Surrey and doing what we can for the city.

TM: If you win the election, it will be your third term as mayor of Surrey. What are your thoughts on that? DW: I didn’t think I would be here this long but I haven’t quite finished yet so there is still some more work to do. I will continue to move forward. If people like what we are doing, they will elect us again and if they want a different direction, TM: Will you be taking new member on your slate in the upcoming election? DW: Yes. We have got the ones that we have and Bruce Hayne and Marvin Hunt have joined us as well.

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