February 21, 2025

Measles case confirmed in the Lower Mainland

A new case of measles infection has been confirmed in the Lower Mainland. Fraser Health and Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) have determined the infection was acquired by a Fraser Health resident who travelled abroad to Southeast Asia. Public Health officials from both health authorities are following up directly with individuals who are known to have been exposed to the virus.

Members of the public may have been exposed to measles if they were on Air Canada Flight 66, arriving in Vancouver on February 11, 2025, or if they spent time in the international arrivals area of YVR, including customs or baggage claim, from 7:00 AM to 9:30 AM on Feb 11, 2025.

Measles is a highly infectious disease transmitted by airborne spread. Most people in Canada will be immune to measles due to prior immunization or natural infection.

People who are at risk of getting measles are those who have never had measles disease and those who have not had two doses of a measles vaccine. For people who are not fully protected against measles and may have been exposed, Public Health officials are recommending the following:

If you were born in 1970 or later and have not had two doses of measles vaccine, you should get a booster dose of measles vaccine. It is most effective if received within three days of being exposed but still can be received after that. Measles vaccine is provided free of charge.

Certain people should not get the measles vaccine. These include babies less than six months of age, pregnant people, and people with certain immune conditions.

If you, or your child, are in one of these groups, please call your local Public Health team as soon as possible and no later than six days after being exposed. You may be advised that you, or your child, receive a medication that can prevent measles disease. This is also provided free of charge.

For Fraser Health residents please call the closest Public Health unit listed below.

VCH Communicable Disease: 604-675390 or 1-855-675-3900

Free measles vaccine is available at the following locations to those exposed who are at risk of getting measles:

Vancouver Coastal Health:

A list of local pharmacies (call for weekend hours) or VCH Public Health Units (open weekdays) is available at www.vch. ca/en/health-topics/measles.

Fraser Health:

Burnaby Public Health Unit

Tricities Public Health Unit

North Surrey Public Health Unit

Newton Public Health Unit

Abbotsford Public Health Unit

Individuals exposed should monitor for any symptoms of measles that develop up to three weeks after being exposed. Symptoms of measles include fever, dry cough, runny nose, and red eyes; followed a few days later by a rash that starts at the hairline and spreads rapidly down to the rest of the body.

If you develop symptoms of measles, please contact your health care provider before you visit them so they can take precautions to prevent spreading measles to others.

The measles vaccine is provided free at public health units and certain family doctors and walk-in clinics. Pharmacists can immunize adults and children over five years old. Please call ahead to ensure vaccine is available at your preferred location.

For general information about measles visit www.healthlinkbc.ca/healthlinkbcfiles/measles

For information on accessing your immunization history visit https://immunizebc. ca/immunization-basics/immunizationrecords

Fraser Health

We recognize that Fraser Health provides care on the traditional, ancestral and unceded lands of the Coast Salish and Nlaka’pamux Nations and is home to

PUNJABI PATRIK A STAFF pMjwbI p`iqRkw stw&

Punjabi Editor

Adver tising Executive

Typist

Layout

The P atrika pMjwbI p`iqRkw

Gurdeep Singh Grewal

Paramjit Singh Kanda

Ekam Banipal

Gurmeen Banipal

Fraser Health is dedicated to serving all Indigenous people, and honours the unique cultures of the First Nations, Métis and Inuit living within the Fraser Salish region.

Our hospital and community-based services are delivered by a team of 48,000+ staff, medical staff and volunteers dedicated to serving our patients, families and communities.

Vancouver Coastal Health

Vancouver Coastal Health is committed to delivering exceptional care to 1.25 million people, including the First Nations, Métis and Inuit in our region, within the traditional territories of the Heiltsuk, KitasooXai'xais, Lil'wat, Musqueam, N'Quatqua, Nuxalk, Samahquam, shíshálh, Skatin, Squamish, Tla'amin, Tsleil-Waututh, Wuikinuxv, and Xa'xtsa. VCH is British Columbia’s hub of healthcare innovation, research and academic excellence, providing specialized care to patients throughout the province. Learn more at vch.ca.

Chief Editor/Publisher : Dr. Andy Sidhu | General Manager : Dave Sidhu | Administration Executive: R onnie Sidhu mu`K AYfItr/pRkwsæk: fw: AYNfI is`D jnrl mYnyjr: dyv is`DU AYfiminstrysæn mYnyjr: rxvIr rOnI is`DU pMjwbI AYfItr AYfvrtweIijMæg mYnyjr tweIipst lyAwaUt fIjæweIn gRwiPk fIjæweInr gurdIp isMG

Graphic Designer

Gurjeet Kaur Muhar

Administration Assistant : Gurneet Sidhu AYfiminstrysæn AisstYNt : gurnIq is`DU

32 First Nations within the Fraser Salish region.

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2025 Ford Explorer St-Line: Sporty take on the Family SUV!

Auto review by Veeno Dewan

ABBOTSFORD DENTAL CENTRE

The 2025 Ford Explorer continues on as one of the best mid-size SUVs available in its sector as it enters a sixth-generation revamp. Freshly redesigned, the 2025 Ford Explorer loses the XLT and Timberline models and starts with the entry level - Active, ST-Line, the Platinum, and the ST. There is sleeker styling with a unique grill treatment for each model. Major improvements are made to the cabin, with more features and luxury upgrades. Big news is the availability of the newest version of Ford’ hands -free BlueCruise Autonomous driving system available on subscription after 90 days. The 025 Ford Explorer continues to offer both six- and seven-seat configurations.

Powertrain options include the base Ford 2.3L EcoBoost turbo-fourcylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The optional engine in the Platinum model and standard unit in the performance ST version is a 3.0L twin-turbo V6. with a mighty 400 hp, and 415 lb-ft of torque. All engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission transmitting power to all four wheels. The Intelligent four-wheel-drive system automatically monitors road conditions and automatically distributes the drive torque between the front and rear axles.

We evaluated the mid - range Explorer ST-Line Base price $56,535. With total

option at $7,750. Total price $64,285 plus destination and delivery at $2195. Options on our tester included: Rapid red metallic tinted paint. Twin panel moonroof. Premium package. ST. Line PACK and Onyx ActiveX seats.

The cabin has a major redesign with better-looking, high-quality materials of differing textures making for an interesting, varied cabin. It is definitely a more upscale look. The technology is also improved. The 2025 Explorer is the first Ford to implement the Ford Digital Experience that integrates user’s favorite apps and provide native streaming and internet browsing while parked.

The reconfigurable 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system. is neat and easy to use with a faster new Android-based operating system. Goole capability is top notch with Google Maps as the native navigation, with integrated voice control for many vehicle functions like climate and audio through the Google Assistant. There is also wireless Apple CarPlay function and a superb Bang & Olufsen sound system with 14 speakers takes care of the audio ambience. There are eight USB ports – including two for third-row passengers and three 12-volt power sockets.

The sumptuous seats were wonderfully comfortable, and the slim design allows for more rear passenger knee

room in the second-row space. Second and third row occupants gain the same level of fit and finish in the trim and seating department, Ford also offers power-folding second and third-row seats on the upscale model. Seating rows are spacious and easy to move around and reconfigure, and they fold completely flat for a cargo. There is more storage behind the powered tailgate, with a shallow underfloor compartment. The maximum towing capacity for the 2025 Ford Explorer is 5000 pounds. All models come with the Class III Towing package, which includes a hitch, a trailer wiring harness, and a trailer sway control system. The 2025 Explorer comes standard with autonomous emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, lane keep assist, and automatic high beams as standard equipment under the Co-Pilot360 Safety Suite. Adaptive cruise control and a surround-view camera system are available as optional extras. Also fitted is evasive steering assist and post-impact braking, which automatically applies the brakes after a crash to prevent the car from rolling. Ford also offers a park-assist system that does not require the driver to touch the steering wheel or pedals.

On the road, the Explorers newest BlueCruise system works brilliantly

. with speed detection added to the hands-free operating mode. The system allows for auto slowdown to match speed through corners. It also has lanechange assist and auto return and lane monitoring to keep the vehicle safe. The Explorer also features seven driver selectable drive modes. Normal is the default whole Sport liven up things a bit, firming the steering and changing shift parameters. An eco-mode helps in fuel economy, and there is a useful Tow/Haul, mode. To deal with challenging terrain there are modes for: Slippery, Deep snow/Sand, and Trail. The rough-terrain modes give the Explorer a modicum of help on adverse surfaces. Fuel economy for the base

2.3-litre turbo four-cylinder engine is 11.9 L/100km city, 8.7 on the highway, and 10.4 combined. The V6 delivers 11.3 combined.

Downsides are few, the cramped –child only third row seating is almost a normal in this segment. Otherwise, the Explorer is really the total package with handsome non - polarizing looks, comfort, technology and great ride and handling. Highly recommended for families everywhere.

2025 Ford Explorer ST-Line Priced from $56,535. Total price $64,285. More info at www.ford.ca

Ferguson

Simon Ave

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Parenting Tips : bwicaF dI iËMdgI

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New Lions Gate Hospital tower opens next month

People on the North Shore and in neighbouring communities will soon have enhanced access to health care services in the new, modern acute care tower at Lions Gate Hospital, opening March 9, 2025.

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“I’m thrilled this new hospital tower is now complete, and families in North Vancouver and beyond will have better access to high-quality health-care services, closer to home,” said Bowinn Ma, Minister of Infrastructure. “Our government is making record investments to support growing communities, and we’re committed to delivering more hospitals, health-care centres, and other important infrastructure.”

The new six-storey tower is named after local philanthropist and businessperson Paul Myers. It has eight state-of-the-art operating rooms with a new medical device reprocessing department, as well as a pre-operative and post-operative care area, including anesthesia intervention and isolation rooms. There will be 108 beds in private patient rooms, all with ensuite washrooms.

Vancouver Coastal Health worked in collaboration with Sḵwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh Nation) advisers on key aspects of the project to honour the host Nations and help create safer, welcoming and culturally appropriate spaces for Indigenous patients and families.

“It’s terrific news for people living on the North Shore and area that the new patient care tower at Lions Gate Hospital is opening to meet the needs, comfort and well-being of people receiving care,” said Josie Osborne, Minister of Health. “By investing in state-of-the-art facilities around B.C., including the new Paul Myers Tower, we are truly investing in better health outcomes for British Columbians. This is part of our commitment to strengthen B.C.’s public health-care system.”

The acute tower was designed to provide patient- and family- centred care. It features a variety of spaces to support

patients, family and staff well-being, including lounges, a House of Elders office, a sacred space, additional bike storage and a rooftop garden with a walking path. Further, innovative technologies and an upgraded nurse call system, improve patient experiences and enhance safety for patients and staff.

Construction began on the project in fall 2021. The total capital cost of the project is approximately $325 million. Funding is shared between the Province, Vancouver Coastal Health and the Lions Gate Hospital Foundation. Myers donated $25 million to the foundation’s $100-million campaign.

“We’re excited to care for patients in this new space,” said Jillian Morland, clinical nurse educator, Lions Gate Hospital at Vancouver Coastal Health. “The clinical spaces are larger and designed for flexibility and efficiency to better accommodate our teams. The technology upgrades, such as access to Vocera and Masimo, will enable us to deliver the highest quality care possible.”

Lions Gate Hospital provides a full range of acute-care services and many specialized services. With the 108 beds and eight operating rooms in this new tower, the Lions Gate Hospital will have a total of 329 beds, 10 operating rooms, and a variety of diagnostic services and equipment. The hospital also offers emergency and critical care, maternity, pediatrics, psychiatric, chemotherapy, cardiac care, palliative care and rehabilitative services.

This hospital will continue to serve patients from the Sea-to-Sky corridor, Sunshine Coast, Bella Bella and Bella Coola on the Central Coast, including the Heiltsuk, Kitasoo-Xai'xais, Lil’wat, N'Quatqua, Nuxalk, Samahquam, shíshálh, Skatin, Squamish, Tla'amin, Tsleil-Waututh, Wuikinuxv, and Xa'xtsa communities.

Minister’s, California Building Industry Association’s statement on softwood duties, tariffs

Ravi Parmar, Minister of Forests, and Dan Dunmoyer, CEO, California Building Industry Association, have released the following statement on B.C. lumber and softwood duties:

“B.C. and California have a strong relationship and a history of co-operation that has benefited so many people up and down the coast.

“Together, we are working to make sure that our desire for fair, mutually beneficial trade policies is fully understood by U.S. industry leaders and policymakers, and to show that unjustified tariffs on Canadian imports on top of the already challenging softwood issue will only hurt people on both sides of the border.

“There’s no doubt that our American partners need B.C.’s quality softwood products, and any tariff will simply increase the costs to build much-needed housing. This

is particularly true following the recent fires in Los Angeles. More than 16,000 homes and buildings were lost, an almost unimaginable tragedy. There are now predictions that housing and rental units will now become even more unaffordable.

“B.C. can play a positive role in helping California rebuild after the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. Rebuilding is only possible using B.C. wood, and unjustified tariffs and duties will only make recovery more expensive and take longer. B.C. can help in this housing crisis and we have a role in shaping the future of trade between our two countries.

“The message we are bringing to Californians is this: B.C. is here to help. Our relationship creates reliable jobs and predictable, stable markets at a time when they can be hard to find. The best way forward is together.”

2025 minimum wage increases confirmed

B.C.’s lowest-paid workers will see a 2.6% wage increase on June 1, 2025, keeping pace with inflation.

The general minimum wage increases from $17.40 to $17.85 per hour. This follows the changes made in spring 2024 to the Employment Standards Act, which mandated annual wage increases.

“Minimum wage earners are vulnerable to jumps in the price of groceries, rent and gas,” said Jennifer Whiteside, Minister of Labour. “That’s why we took action last year to ensure the minimum wage keeps up with the cost of living so workers don’t fall further behind.”

Minimum wage rates for residential caretakers, live-in home-support workers, camp leaders and app-based ridehailing and delivery services workers will receive the same 2.6% increase on June 1. On Dec. 31, 2025, the mini-

mum piece rates for 15 hand-harvested crops will also increase by the same percentage.

“Making minimum wage, I know how important this increase is for workers,” said Olivia Brand, who works at the Burquitlam Liquor Store in Coquitlam.

“It’s vital for government to continue to raise the minimum wage in line with inflation because it helps workers like me cover everyday expenses more easily and it shows us our hard work is valued.”

The minimum wage rates increase on June 1 of each year, except for the minimum agricultural piece rates that increase on Dec. 31 of each year to ensure crop producers will not have to adjust wages in the middle of the harvesting season.

Quotes:

The changes align with government priorities to help lift more people out of poverty, make life more affordable, and build a strong and fair economy for B.C.

Philip Aguirre, owner of Old Surrey Restaurant, and executive director of the Newton Business Improvement Association –

“Supporting workers is crucial for the success of my business. When my employees are paid a fair minimum wage, they feel appreciated and that translates into a more positive work environment. It also leads to higher efficiency and lower turnover, two things every business owner strives for.”

Fred Soofi, former employer, Pasta Polo, Coquitlam –

“As a small-business owner for the past 40 years, whenever the government increases the minimum wage, I have always been supportive. I firmly believe it benefits businesses by increasing the productivity and morale of employees. I appreciate our government in B.C. implementing annual minimum wage increases, which are going to help workers and families with the high cost of living we are facing at the present time.”

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qusIN amrUd ËrUr KfDf hovygf pr kI qusIN kdy

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Kfx nfl keI ishq lfB (Roasted Guava Beneifts) imldy hn. ies ivwc mOjUd pOÈitk

qwq ibmfrIaF nfl lVn aqy srIr nUM mËbUq bxfAux ivwc mdd krdy hn. afE jfxdy hF

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Bfr GtfAux ivwc mddgfr

BuMny hoey amrUd ivwc kYlorI Gwt huMdI hY, jo ik

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ÈUgr leI PfiedymMd

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cmVI leI PfiedymMd

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idl dI ishq leI PfiedymMd

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kYNsr dI rokQfm

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nvIN irsrc ‘c Kulfsf

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ivwc 65 pRqIÈq dI kmI afeI.

jfxkfrI jo AupXogI sfbq hoeI

tIm ny ikhf ik isroiss vfly mrIËF ivwc PlF aqy sbËIaF dI Kpq aqy hYpyto-

iensfn dI qMdrusqI df asl rfË hY muskrfht

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sYlUlr kfrsInomf dy joKm ivckfr sbMD

cMgI qrHF dsqfvyËI

nhIN hY. aijhI jfxkfrI hYpytosYlUlr kfrisnomf dI rokQfm ivwc bhuq lfBdfiek

sfbq ho skdI hY. ieh Koj JHEP jrnl ivwc pRkfiÈq hoeI hY.

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ieh AudoN huMdf hY jdoN ijgr ‘qy itAUmr vDdf hY. hYpytosYlUlr kfrsInomf aksr

AunHF lokF ivwc huMdf hY ijnHF nUM purfxI

ijgr dI ibmfrI huMdI hY. ijgr dI purfxI

ibmfrI dy muwK kfrn Èrfb aqy vfierl hYpytfeIts hn, jdoN ik ies ivwc iËafdf Bfr aqy motfpf, dUiÈq Bojn df syvn vI Èfml hY.

Funding supports culturally safe emergency responses for Indigenous Peoples

To ensure inclusivity and respect for Indigenous Peoples during emergencies, First Nations communities and local governments throughout B.C. will receive funding to strengthen cultural safety in local emergency-management practices.

“Emergencies are stressful for everyone impacted, and ensuring access to culturally sensitive supports is essential to people’s safety and well-being,” said Kelly Greene, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness. “By providing staff and volunteers with cultural safety training, supports and relationship building, we help ensure Indigenous people feel valued, included and cared for during emergencies.”

The Province is providing a total of approximately $1 million for 20 local Indigenous cultural safety and cultural humility training projects through the Community Emergency and Preparedness Fund (CEPF). This funding will be used by First Nations and local governments to make emergency management and

supports more inclusive for Indigenous Peoples.

Projects include:

Implementing Splatsin’s training modules and workshops that integrate cultural practices into emergency preparedness, and establishing culturally appropriate protocols for emergency response and recovery, enhancing community resilience.

Strengthening relationships between emergency-management staff from the Central Okanagan Regional District, Westbank First Nation and Syilx Okanagan communities through team-building exercises. These experiences will help foster mutual understanding and promote collaboration, prioritize inclusivity and enhance cultural sensitivity in emergencyresponse situations.

Developing in-person workshops and online training in the North Coast Regional District to share Tsimshian cultural teachings, history and values. The training will inform emergency-response staff and council members, with pre-engagement

meetings to ensure ongoing, accessible education.

Creating cultural humility training videos for the Strathcona Regional District’s reconciliation framework and training plan. These will be developed in collaboration with regional partners and First Nations, based on Maya’xala culturally centred home studies for the Laich-kwil-tach tribes on north Vancouver Island. An Emergency Disaster Management Act Path Forward workshop will also be hosted with local governments in the region.

“This funding ensures First Nations are at the table informing decisions that affect them, their families and their territories in a way that also strengthens and supports the capacity for First Nation communities and local governments to be true partners in emergency management,” said Christine Boyle, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation. “By prioritizing cultural safety and Indigenous knowledge in emergency situations, emergency services can be delivered in a culturally safe and effective way, and move forward

together for increased collaborative community resilience.”

The CEPF supports First Nations and local governments to better prepare for disasters and reduce risks from natural hazards in a changing climate. In addition to Indigenous cultural safety and cultural humility training, CEPF funding also supports:

disaster-risk reduction and climate adaptation;

volunteer and composite fire departments equipment and training;

emergency operations centre equipment and training;

public notification and evacuation-route planning; and

emergency support services equipment and training.

The Province has invested $369 million into the CEPF since it was established in 2017. Approximately $301 million has been provided to First Nations and local governments through the CEPF for approximately 2,170 projects.

Premier’s, minister’s, parliamentary secretary’s, MLA’s statements on the Women’s Memorial March

Premier David Eby has issued the following statement in honour of the annual Women’s Memorial March:

“Today, hundreds of people will come together on Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside to honour and advocate for missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, Two Spirit and trans people. They will walk through the streets, pausing where the missing and murdered were last seen or found. They will remember, mourn and call for an end to racism, inequity and gender-based violence.

“Our government stands with survivors, supporters and the loved ones left behind – and we are answering their call.

“We are taking action to end the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, Two Spirit and trans people by working in partnership with Indigenous people to increase safety and supports for survivors, uplift Indigenous-led approaches

and break the cycle of violence through prevention, healing and accountability.

“It is fitting that the Women’s Memorial March is on Valentine’s Day. Everyone we have lost was deeply loved by their family, friends and community. In memory of all missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, Two Spirit and trans people, we recommit to ending racism and gender-based violence so everyone in B.C. can enjoy a lifetime of love without the risk of being harmed just because of who they are.”

Christine Boyle, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, said:

“On Jan. 20, 1992, Cheryl Ann Joe, a 26-year-old mother of three young boys, was murdered in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside. The Women’s Memorial March sparked by her death has grown to become about every missing and murdered Indigenous woman, girl, Two Spirit and trans person. It is a call to action to end gender-

based violence and we are committed to supporting and leading that work in every way we can.”

Jennifer Blatherwick, parliamentary secretary for gender equity, said:

“Indigenous women, girls, Two Spirit and trans people have the right to feel and be safe, and yet they are at greater risk of violence. Today, and every day, we grieve for those who are missing and those whose lives have been stolen. Through Safe and Supported: B.C.’s gender-based violence action plan, we are continuing the vital work to address gender-based violence, systemic racism and discrimination.”

Joan Phillip, MLA for Vancouver-Strathcona, said:

“For 33 years, the grassroots efforts of community members have brought us together on Feb. 14 to acknowledge violence against Indigenous women, girls, Two Spirit and trans people. We walk together to honour those who have been murdered or went missing, and survivors and their families. We need to continue working together as government to address the underlying causes of gender-based violence and racism so that every Indigenous woman, girl, Two Spirit and trans person feels safe.”

BCIT begins $48 million renewal of Burnaby Campus

From BCIT News: https://commons. bcit.ca/news/2025/02/south-campusinfrastructure-renewal-scir/

The British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) is beginning a major revitalization project on the south side of its Burnaby Campus, which will ultimately enrich the applied educational experience for students and further cultivate a thriving work environment for employees. The BCIT South Campus Infrastructure Renewal project (SCIR) provides a unique opportunity to enhance public spaces, improve accessibility, and create a more vibrant and inclusive campus environment. It will also upgrade aging infrastructure to ensure climate resilience and support sustainability efforts.

With a $48 million investment from the Province of British Columbia, this phase of the SCIR project encompasses the first three of five separate zones of the project with construction set to begin in early 2026 and to run until 2029.

“Our government is committed to investing in B.C. to strengthen and diversify it, and the best way to do that, is by investing in the future workers of the province,” said Anne Kang, Minister of Post Secondary Education and Future Skills. “The infra-

structure upgrades at BCIT today will create a cutting-edge environment to be the foundation for training and education and foster growth, opportunity, and bigger paychecks for all.”

“It’s great to see schools like BCIT growing and adapting to meet the diverse needs of their students,” said Bowinn Ma, Minister of Infrastructure. “The updates to the South Campus will enhance the student experience while also providing more staff and visitors with an enriched environment, reflecting our government’s commitment to creating sustainable, inclusive, and resilient communities that foster growth and opportunity for all.”

An initiative that puts people and sustainability at the forefront

The project involves significant upgrades to critical underground infrastructure in the South Campus area, including electrical, gas, water, sanitary services, and stormwater systems south of Goard Way. These upgrades will enhance climate resilience and prepare the campus for future developments.

“The South Campus Infrastructure Renewal Project is vital to BCIT’s future – creating a sustainable, interconnected

community that enhances education, supports staff and faculty, and fosters industry collaboration,” said Dr. Jeff Zabudsky, BCIT President. “We thank the Province of British Columbia for investing in this transformative initiative that enables BCIT to continue to deliver on its vision of empowering people, shaping BC, and inspiring global progress.”

Above ground, the campus will see more open spaces, a restored urban greenway, a campus walkway connecting the new Tall Timber Student Housing building to the core of campus, and upgraded wayfinding, bicycle networks, and accessibility throughout public areas. Additionally, the project will support the continued daylighting of Guichon Creek – creating a natural ecological habitat suitable for salmon.

Notably – this project also marks the retirement of the Energy OASIS site. This highly successful project built by BCIT’s Smart Microgrid Applied Research Team (SMART) includes a large solar panel canopy, control systems, and EV charging. Over its lifespan, OASIS successfully

demonstrated how large-scale microgrids can complement and connect to utility networks as well provide resilience when the grid power is not available. The SMART team continues to leverage the learnings of OASIS and looks forward to sharing updates on future projects soon.

Throughout the revitalization period, the SCIR will function as a Living Lab for students, faculty, researchers, and industry partners. Students, particularly those in Civil Engineering, Ecological Restoration, and Construction Management, will gain hands-on experience through collaboration with industry professionals involved with the project.

Follow the project and learn more by visiting: https://www.bcit.ca/campusplan/major-projects/scir/ or by following: https://www.instagram.com/bcitcpf/

Financial assistance coming for people affected by October floods

Disaster Financial Assistance (DFA) is now available for eligible people and businesses in the City of Maple Ridge and Township of Langley affected by flooding due to the atmospheric river from Oct. 18-20, 2024.

Following a significant event, DFA may compensate for the sudden, unexpected loss of uninsurable items that are essential. This may include building repairs to a principal residence, replacement of essential personal effects, as well as clean up and debris removal.

People can access specifics about the event and can submit their DFA application online at: https://www.gov.bc.ca/ disasterfinancialassistance

DFA is available to homeowners, renters, business owners, farmers, corporationowned properties and charitable organizations to cover uninsurable disaster-related losses. The program is unable to compensate for losses for which insurance was reasonably and readily available.

Applications for DFA must be submitted to the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness within 90 calendar days of the event declaration. The deadline to submit applications for this DFA event for the City of Maple Ridge and the Township of Langley is May 14, 2025.

The Province is committed to providing the necessary support and resources people need to rebuild their lives after an emergency. The DFA program has been enhanced and expanded in recent years to better support people and communities. These changes include:

increase in maximum DFA support available per claim from $300,000 to $400,000;

expanded eligibility for small businesses based on minimum income;

expanded annual revenue threshold for small businesses from $1 million to $2 million so more businesses can qualify for DFA;

expanded eligibility for the farming sector to include homes owned by corporations if the home is used as a primary residence;

increased provincial contributions to local infrastructure recovery;

the Province may provide a portion of the project’s estimated costs up front to help communities rebuild critical infrastructure projects faster; and a new online portal is available to make it easier for people and communities to apply for financial support for uninsurable losses after a disaster.

DFA was previously announced for damages from the same event for people, businesses and communities in:

City of Port Coquitlam City of Coquitlam

City of North Vancouver

District of West Vancouver

District of North Vancouver

Squamish First Nation

Village of Anmore

City of Port Moody

City of Surrey

Longhouse Business Award: Five $2,000 Prizes for Young Business Students or Entrepreneurs

The Longhouse Business Award is back and this time we’ve grown the program to $10,000!

Business students & entrepreneurs are encouraged to apply for a chance to be selected for 1 of 5 awards that include a commemorative framed award, $2,000 towards your tuition or business; as well as an invitation to our full day Branding & Digital Marketing workshop at Longhouse HQ that includes skills relevant to both the employment & entrepreneurship market today.

Learn from Canada’s Best Branding & Marketing Company with topics including: Growing Your Business with Storytelling Branding vs Marketing | What’s the Difference? Digital Marketing | Advertising in 2025 Digital Marketing | Search Engine Optmization in 2025 Branding | Web Design with Wordpress & Elementor Grow Fast | The Beavis Business Framwork

The Longhouse Aboriginal Youth Mentorship Award has grown and has been renamed to the Longhouse Business Award, which selects promising business students or entrepreneurs under 25 years of age who want to make an impact.

*3 of 5 awards will have preference going to an Indigenous applicant including First Nations, Inuit, and Métis

Applicants will be evaluated on a rubric valuing: vision, impact, initiative, communication, and by demonstrating a commitment to self-growth & learning.

“Because of scholarships, not only was I able to start Longhouse, but by graduation, it had grown into a successful, full-time focus. When the Longhouse Business Award helps contribute to the self-development & self-sufficiency of others, my passion and energy for business grows.”

-Keenan Beavis (CEO - Longhouse)

“What excites me most about our award is the opportunity it provides to young future business leaders, especially the education workshops & exposure to our real-world office where they get a view into the paths available to them in Entrepreneurship or with a career in Branding and Marketing.“

-Simran Rai (COO - Longhouse)

“The biggest value is the workshops; an excellent opportunity to merge univer-

sity-acquired knowledge with hands-on experience, these sessions offer students a unique lens into modern, innovative marketing trends.”

-Austin Mallar (CTO - Longhouse)

Applications due July 12th, 2025

Selection will be completed in August 2025

Requirements

Be a business student or entrepreneur under the age of 25

Submit a Resume with a clear career objective and/or a Business Plan

An up to 500 word submission answering: What does Impact mean to you?

How do you plan on making your Impact?

Is there anything stopping you from making your Impact?

What do you want your next 3 years to look like?

An up to 60 second video introducing yourself and answering “why you are interested in the Longhouse Business Award” (selfie videos are fine!)

*Longhouse values those looking to grow through impactful employment and entrepreneurship equally. Don’t hesitate to let us know your authentic career goals.

About Longhouse Branding & Marketing

Founded in 2018, Longhouse Branding & Marketing helps business & community leaders win time back by dedicating time to their to-do lists. With over 850 clients across North America, Longhouse has become one of Canada’s most recognized marketing agencies, known for its commitment to getting results.

For more information on the Longhouse Business Award and the company, visit: www.longhouse.co.

Media Contact:

Keenan Beavis

Founder & CEO, Longhouse Branding & Marketing press@longhouse.co

(778) 775-4769 www.longhouse.co

Changes you should know about for tax-filing season

For most of us, filing an income tax and benefit return is up there with going to the dentist or sitting through a day-long meeting in terms of things we’d rather not do. But filing your tax return and paying any tax you owe on time is important, so that you receive any benefit and credit payments, and avoid penalties and interest. The deadline to file your 2024 tax return is April 30, 2025. As it approaches, here are three changes to keep in mind.

Get easier answers to questions

If you’re registered for an online account with the Canada Revenue Agency, you’ll be able to use the new online chat service in your account to discuss specific questions and issues with a live agent without having to call.

Don’t have an account yet? It’s now easier to register to manage your personal tax information online. Instead of waiting for a security code in the mail, you can verify

your identity immediately with the document verification service.

New amounts volunteers could claim

Did you complete at least 200 combined hours as a volunteer firefighter or a searchand-rescue volunteer? If so, the amount your credit is based on has increased from $3,000 to $6,000.

Short-term rentals

Renting your home or vacation property through short-term rental sites is very common. However, if you operate a noncompliant short-term rental property, you cannot deduct any related expenses incurred during the portion of the tax year where it is non-compliant. For 2024, there is an exception that as long as your property became compliant with the applicable laws of the municipality or province where it is located by December 31, 2024, you are considered compliant for all of 2024.

Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation & Abbotsford Division of Family Practice Host “Health Talks 101” – A Day of Medical Enlightenment

Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation, in collaboration with Abbotsford Division of Family Practice, is thrilled to announce “Health Talks 101: A Day of Medical Enlightenment” a free public information forum taking place on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at Garden Park Tower in Abbotsford.

This informative event will provide attendees with valuable insights into various aspects of health and well-being, delivered by leading medical professionals.

“Health Talks 101” aims to empower the community with knowledge, fostering a proactive approach to health management.

The day will feature an impressive lineup of speakers, including:

Dr. Shahana Alibhai: A family physician, at Foundry, and author specialising in emotional health, Dr. Alibhai will offer expert advice on mental well-being and coping strategies.

Primary Care Network (PCN): Representatives from the PCN will discuss how this collaborative network of family physicians and healthcare professionals works to provide patients with comprehensive and coordinated care.

HPV Education & Screening: Information on HPV prevention and early detection will be available, emphasising the importance of proactive health measures.

Dr. Harbir Sian: An experienced optometrist with expertise in ocular disease, pediatrics, and primary care, Dr. Sian will share valuable insights into maintaining optimal eye health and the critical role of optometry.

Seating is limited, so early registration is highly encouraged. A light lunch will be provided for all attendees.

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, March 8, 2025 Time: 8am

Location: Garden Park Tower, Abbotsford

Cost: Free

Registration: www.fvhcf.ca/healthtalks

The Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation raises funds for vital equipment and programs funded or endorsed by the Fraser Health Authority. They serve the communities of Abbotsford, Mission, Chilliwack, Hope, Agassiz and Harrison Hot Springs.

Visit fvhcf.ca

Call 604 851 4890

Email info@fvhcf.ca

South Asian Health and Heart Disease: What You Need to Know

February is Heart Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of heart health and to focus on ways we can keep our hearts strong. Heart disease affects nearly all of us at some point, whether personally or through a loved one. It is the second leading cause of death for both men and women in Canada, making it crucial to take steps toward prevention.

Heart disease is a major health concern, but for South Asians, it is an even bigger issue. Research has shown that South Asians are more likely to develop heart problems at a younger age compared to others. This higher risk is due to a mix of family history, diet, and lifestyle choices. Many of these factors can be improved by making small but meaningful changes.

One of the biggest contributors to heart disease in our community is diet. Traditional Indian food is delicious but can often be unhealthy. Fried foods like pakoras and samosas, buttery parathas, and

dishes loaded with ghee or cream increase the risk of heart problems. White rice and white flour rotis raise blood sugar levels, which can lead to diabetes, a condition that goes hand in hand with heart disease. Sweet treats like jalebi, gulab jamun, and sugar-filled chai add even more strain on the body.

But the good news is that you don’t have to stop eating our favorite foods, you just need to make small changes. Using whole wheat flour instead of white, switching to healthier oils like mustard or olive oil, and grilling or baking food instead of frying can make a big difference. Adding more lentils, beans, and vegetables into meals can also help lower the risk of heart disease. Cutting back on salt and using spices like turmeric, garlic, and ginger for flavor can keep food tasty while improving heart health.

Lack of exercise is another big issue. A large number of people have jobs where

they sit all day, and physical activity is often ignored. Walking for 30 minutes a day, doing some light strength exercises, or even dancing bhangra can help keep the heart strong. Exercise doesn’t have to be boring, staying active can be enjoyable and social too.

Dr. Holden Chow, a local family doctor, and Vice Chair of the Abbotsford Division of Family Practices, stresses the importance of prevention. He says, “There have been amazing advancements in the treatment of heart disease. But if you have a heart attack, it still profoundly changes your life. I love it when we can do things like stopping smoking, getting more active, or taking medications to lower someone’s blood pressure or cholesterol levels to prevent and reduce the risk of heart disease.”

Another important part of heart health is managing stress. Many people face high levels of stress due to work, family

responsibilities, and financial pressures. This stress can lead to high blood pressure, which is bad for the heart. Simple steps like deep breathing, meditation, or spending time with loved ones can help reduce stress and protect heart health.

Finally, regular check-ups with a doctor are essential. A lot of people wait until they feel sick to see a doctor, but by then, it might be too late. Getting blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels checked regularly can catch problems early before they become serious.

Heart disease is a serious issue in our community, but small changes can make a big difference. Eating better, moving more, managing stress, and seeing a doctor regularly can help keep our hearts strong. By taking care of ourselves today, we can live longer, healthier lives and set a good example for future generations.

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Simardeep Dhami was discovered missing this morning and was last seen on February 16, 2025, at approximately 11:30 pm leaving her residence in the 12200 block 97A Avenue, Surrey. She has not been seen or heard from since.

Simardeep is described as a 19-year-old South Asian female, approximately 5fi tall with

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a heavy build. She has long black hair and brown eyes (see attached photo). She was last seen wearing a long light-colored, possibly beige jacket, and light-colored, possibly beige pants. Simardeep was carrying a pink handbag and a black backpack.

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FRASER HEALTH WELCOMES

INTERIM PRESIDENT AND CEO

SURREY – Fraser Health is announcing that, effective immediately, the board and Dr. Victoria Lee have mutually agreed that she will be moving on from Fraser Health to pursue other opportunities. Dr. Lynn Stevenson has been appointed as interim president and chief executive officer at Fraser Health. Following her appointment as president and CEO in 2018, Dr. Lee guided Fraser Health through the COVID-19 pandemic and a range of transformational changes including more than $15 billion in multi-year large capital investments, a system-wide digital twin, and planetary health strategy. “We would like to thank Dr. Lee for her leadership over the past six and a half years and on behalf of everyone at Fraser Health we wish her well,” said Jim Sinclair, Board Chair, Fraser Health. “We are grateful Dr. Stevenson will be joining the organization, and the Board will be working quickly to recruit a new permanent president and CEO as quickly as possible.” “As I embark on an exciting new chapter in my career, I'm filled with immense pride and gratitude for the remarkable achievements we've accomplished together at Fraser Health over the past 15 years. Our journey has been extraordinary, marked by innovation and unwavering commitment to finding integrative solutions for our patients, families and communities,” said Dr. Lee. “The dedication of our 50,000 Fraser Health staff, medical professionals, and volunteers continues to inspire me daily. I have the utmost confidence in our exceptional leadership team and Dr. Lynn Stevenson in enhancing the health and wellbeing of our communities."

Quick facts:

• Dr. Stevenson’s health system leadership spans three decades. She is a Health Administration professor at UBC, former Associate Deputy Minister of Health, and former health authority senior executive with experience at Island Health, Fraser Health, and BC Cancer.

• Dr. Stevenson has chaired or co-chaired numerous health-related advisory and advocacy committees, including the British Columbia Academic Health Council (2011-2014), the Canadian Foundation for Healthcare Improvement (2016-2020) and Healthcare Excellence Canada (2019-2021).

• She is currently a member of the Canadian College of Health Leaders Board and chairs the Health Employers Association of BC Board.

A backgrounder follows.

Dr. Lynn Stevenson has held senior and executive positions with B.C’s health care system spanning three decades. She is an Adjunct Professor in UBC’s Master of Health Administration program and formerly served as Associate Deputy Minister of Health responsible for a portfolio providing leadership to health services throughout B.C. Prior to this, Lynn held senior and executive positions in Island Health, Fraser Health, and BC Cancer. Lynn has served on several boards including Board Chair of the Canadian Foundation for Healthcare Improvement (CFHI), and Health Excellence Canada and appointed member of the College of Dental Surgeons of BC. She is currently a member of the Canadian College of Health Leaders board and Chairs the Health Employers Association of BC Board.

Lynn is an RN by profession and has a PhD with a research focus on organizational change, practice, and leadership. She is a Fellow of the Canadian College of Health Leaders, a CFHI EXTRA Fellow and Certified corporate director (ICD-D). About Fraser Health: We recognize that Fraser Health provides care on the traditional, ancestral and unceded lands of the Coast Salish and Nlaka’pamux Nations and is home to 32 First Nations within the Fraser Salish region.

Fraser Health is dedicated to serving all Indigenous people, and honours the unique cultures of the First Nations, Métis and Inuit living within the Fraser Salish region. Our hospital and community-based services are delivered by a team of 48,000+ staff, medical staff and volunteers dedicated to serving our patients, families and communities.

515 GLADWIN ROAD MLS # R2937669.

- LOCATION, LOCATION! - 10 Acres with Renovated Home

- 7 Acres Planted in Calypso Blueberries - Large outbuildings for Income Potential - MOTIVATED SELLER!

Time Management: The Key to Success and Well-being

In today's fast-paced world, where the demands of work, education, and personal life often seem overwhelming, mastering the art of time management has become essential. Whether it’s juggling deadlines, attending meetings, or making time for family and hobbies, the way we manage our time can significantly affect our productivity, mental health, and overall well-being. The importance of time management cannot be overstated, and it is a skill everyone should learn and practice.

Time management involves organizing and planning how to divide our time between various tasks and activities. At its core, it’s about prioritizing what matters most and allocating time in a way that minimizes stress and maximizes efficiency. For many people, the first challenge is recognizing that time is a limited resource. Unlike money or material possessions, once time is lost, it cannot be regained. Therefore, managing time effectively is not just about working harder, but working smarter.

One of the most effective strategies for

time management is setting clear, specific goals. Without defined goals, it’s easy to get distracted or sidetracked by less important tasks. When setting goals, it’s crucial to break them down into smaller, manageable steps. For example, instead of setting a broad goal like "finish the project," break it down into "write the outline," "conduct research," or "create the presentation slides." This approach helps create a sense of accomplishment as each step is completed, leading to increased motivation and focus. Effective time management also involves eliminating distractions. In today’s digital age, distractions are everywhere, from social media to endless notifications on our smartphones. These interruptions can derail focus and waste valuable time. By setting boundaries—such as turning off phone notifications during work hours or setting specific times for checking emails—individuals can regain control of their time. Creating a designated workspace free from distractions also promotes better focus and efficiency

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604-825-1550

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mrdm ÈumfrI dy iek hor vrg anusfr GrF ivwc bhuqf smF pMjfbI bolx vfilaF dI 2021 dI mrdmÈumfrI dOrfn igxqI 827,150 hY, jd ik kYnyzf dIaF nfn-afPIÈIal bolIaF qoN ielfvf pMjfbI bolI dI jfxkfrI rwKx vfilaF dI sMiKaf 942, 170 ( 2016 qoN 41 guxf vwD) hY. 2021 dI mrdmÈumfrI anusfr kYnyzf ivc pMjfbI bolx vfilaF ivc pihly nMbr ‘qy AuntYrIAu pRoivMs (397, 865), dUjy ‘qy ibRitÈ klMbIaf (315,000)

aqy qIjI nMbr ‘qy aYlbrtf (126,365) afAuNdf hY. bolI afDfirq aMkiVaF anusfr sMn 2011 dI jngxnf anusfr aMgryËI qy PrYNc qoN mgroN, ieMmIgrYNt BfeIcfiraF dIaF mF-bolIaF dI sUcI ‘c pMjfbI pihly QF ‘qy sI, Bfv kuwl imlf ky qIjy sQfn ‘qy sI. sMn 2011 dy aMkiVaF muqfibk pMjfbI bolx vfilaF dI igxqI 459, 990 sI, jd ik cInI BfeIcfry vloN bolIaF jfx vflIaF BfÈfvF ‘c kYNtnIË bolx vfly 388, 935 aqy mYNzrIn bolx vfly 255,160 sn. pMj sflF mgroN 2016 dy aMkiVaF anusfr pMjfbI bolx vfilaF dI igxqI 18[2 ÌIsdI vDx nfl ieh sMiKaf 543, 495 ho geI qy mihË 85,505 hor pMjfbIaF ny, pMj sflF ‘c mF-bolI pMjfbI ilKvfeI. dUjy pfsy mYNzrIn bolx vfly 610,835 aqy kYNtnIË bolx vfly 594,030 dI igxqI qwk phuMc gey. ieMj pMjfbI bolx vfly qIjy QF qoN pMjvyN ‘qy af izgy, jd ik qIjI qy cOQI QF mYNzrIn qy kYNtnIË ny lY leI. 21 meI 2021 dI mrdmÈumfrI dI gwl krdy hF, qF aMkiVaF dy ihsfb nfl pMjfbI bolx vfilaF dI igxqI 942,170 pMjvyN sQfn ‘qy hY. iewQy ieh vI dwsxf ËrUrI hY ik ies vrg ivc aMgryËI aqy PrYNc qoN mgroN, qIjy nMbr ‘qy spYinÈ (1,171,450) aqy cOQy nMbr ‘qy mYNzrIn cInI bolI (987, 300) hY.

asIN kih skdy hF ik ijwQy kYnyzf ivwc pMjfbI bolI dIaF vwzIaF pRfpqIaF hn, AuQy ajy vI keI qrHF dIaF cuxOqIaF hn. pihlI gwl qF ieh hY ik mrdmÈumfrI smyN pMjfbIaF vloN mF-bolI ilKvfAux leI AuqÈfh ajy vI Enf nhIN, ijMnf hoxf cfhIdf hY. kYnyzf ivc Gwto-Gwt 5 lwK qoN vwD igxqI ivwc aijhy hor pMjfbI vI vsdy hn, ijhVy mrdmÈumfrI dOrfn afpxI mF-bolI pMjfbI nhIN ilKvfAuNdy jF mrdmÈumfrI ivwc mF- bolI vfly Kfny Brdy hI nhI. ieQy dwsxXog hY ik kYnyzf ivwc afey sYlfnI, aMqrrfÈtrI ividafrQI aqy vrk primt vfly pMjfbI vI mrdm ÈumfrI

ivc apxy ÌfrmF ivc mF bolI pMjfbI ilK skdy hn. kYnyzf dy pMjfbI mIzIey vloN vfrvfr pRcfrn dy bfvjUd, bhuq sfry pMjfbI kfgËF ‘c afpxI mF-bolI ilKvfAux qoN hI Gysl mfr jFdy hn. jy ruJfn iehI irhf qF 2026 dI mrdmÈumfrI ivc pMjfbI bolI df pMjvF sQfn vI Kuwsx ‘c dyr nhIN lwgxI. dUjI gwl ieh hY ik pMjfbI kYnyzf ‘c ajy vI ivdyÈI BfÈf hI hY, kYnyzIan BfÈf vjoN mfnqf hfsl nhIN kr skI. ieh gwl iËkrXog hY ik kYnyzf ‘c do muwK BfÈfvF aMgryËI qy PrYNc dÌqrI rUp ‘c srkfrI BfÈfvF hn, pr ieQy rfÈtrI BfÈf dy nFa ‘qy JgVy KVHy krn vflf aijhf koeI ryVkf nhIN, ijvyN ik Bfrq ‘c ihMdI nUM lY ky ‘iek BfÈf qy iek rfÈtr’ afid dy byquky nfary lfey jFdy hn. ieQy cuxOqI ieh hY ik ieMmIgrFt BfeIcfry dI bolI hox kfrn pMjfbI ajy vI sMGrÈ dy dOr ‘coN guËr rhI hY. awj kYnyzf ‘c vsdy pMjfbI jykr afpxI nfgirkqf kfrn ‘kYnyzIan’ hn qF iPr AunHF dI bolI ivdyÈI ikvyN hoeI? jykr pfrlImYNt ‘c pMjfbIaF dI igxqI zyZ drjn hY qy keI sUibaF ‘c vI pMjfbI isafsqdfnF df bolbflf hY, iPr Auh afpxI mF-bolI leI idRVH ierfdf ikAuN nhIN rwKdy? XkInn qOr ‘qy jykr sfzy rfjsI lIzr pRx krn ik AunHF pMjfbI nUM kYnyzIan bolI vjoN mfnqf idvfAuxI hY qy ivdyÈI bolI nhIN

rihx dyxf, qF pMjfbI vI kYnyzf ‘c bygfnI nhIN rhygI qy Auh kYnyzf dI bolI vjoN mfnqf hfsl kr lvygI.

qIjI gwl, pMjfbI mfipaF ‘qy afAuNdI hY. jykr bI[sI[ sUby dI hI gwl krIey qF ieQoN dy sfbkf ivwidaf mMqrI mnmohx isMG moa shoqf dy Auwdm nfl pMjfbI nUM dUjI BfÈf df drjf iml igaf sI qy pMjfbI skUlF ‘c pVHfAux df rfh pwDrf ho igaf sI. ies ivc koeI Èwk nhIN ik pMjfbI pVHfAux vfly skUl, akYzmIaF qy hor adfry afpo-afpxy Auprfly kr rhy hn pr pbilk skUlF ‘c pMjfbI pVHfeI jfx leI bwicaF df nFa Éfs qOr ‘qy dfÉl krn dI loV huMdI hY. kYnyzf ‘c pMjfbI bolI leI sB qoN vwD icMqf dI gwl awj ieh hY ik ieQy pMjfbI nUM igxy-imQy ZMg nfl KUMjy lfAux dIaF cflF KyzIaF jf rhIaF hn. pMjfbI bolI dy nFa ‘qy pMjfbI sUbf bxn vyly ijs qrHF dy hflfq qy iÌrkU ivcfr pMjfb ivc Ëor PV rhy sn, awj AuhI siQqI kYnyzf ivc bxdI jf rhI hY. kYnyzf ‘c jykr sMGxI pMjfbI vsoN vfly ielfikaF dI gwl krIey qF ieQy cVHdy aqy lihMdy pMjfb dy iswK, ihMdU, muslmfn Bfv vwK-vwK DrmF, rMgF, nslF qy iÌrikaF dy lok vsdy hn. ieQoN qwk ik ‘BfrqI pMjfbI’ qy ‘pfiksqfnI pMjfbI’ vflf Ìrk vI ieQy nËr nhIN afAuNdf, blik sfry ‘kYnyzIan pMjfbI’ hI aKvfAuNdy hn. AuNj vI asIN aksr afKdy hF ik pfiksqfnI pMjfb ivc pMjfbI bolx vfilaF dI igxqI, BfrqI pMjfb nfloN ikqy vwD hY. kYnyzf ivc pMjfbI afbfdI vfly ÈihrF ‘c vsx vfly lihMdy pMjfb dy pMjfbI iËafdfqr lfhOr dy nyVy-qyVy dy hI hn. AunHF ‘coN vDyry boldy vI pMjfbI hI hn, pr sB qoN vwD duKdfeI gwl ieh hY ik kYnyzf dI mrdmÈumfrI ivc jdoN AunHF mF-bolI ilKfAuxI huMdI hY, qF iewkf-duwkf nUM Cwz ky koeI vI mF-bolI pMjfbI nhIN ilKdf, blik AurdU hI ilKvfAuNdy hn. hux gwl krIey BfrqI pMjfb dy kYnyzf vsdy BfeIcfiraF dI. ieQy iËkrXog hY ik kYnyzf dy sMGxI pMjfbI vsoN vfly ÈihrF ‘c pMjfb dy ipMzF-ÈihrF nfl sbMiDq iswK qy ihMdU hI vDyry hn, jd ik pMjfb qoN bfhrly sUibaF qoN afey pRvfsI BfrqI BfeIcfry ‘coN vI kyrlf, qfiml, gujrfqI, bMgflI afid vsdy hn, ijnHF dIaF afpxIaF BfÈfvF hn qy Auh kYnyzf qy Bfrq aMdr vI AunHF BfÈfvF nUM hI mfnqf idMdy hn. ienHF dy mukfblqn XU[pI[, ibhfr, mwD pRdyÈ afid sUuibaF ‘coN kYnyzf vsx vfilaF dI igxqI Gwt hY, ijhVy ‘ihMdI’ nUM afpxI mF-bolI svIkfrdy hn. pr hYrfnI ies gwl dI hY ik kYnyzf aMdrly

BfrqI sÌfrqKfny ihMdI nUM muÌq pVHfAux leI qF awzI-cotI df Ëor lf rhy hn, jd ik sB qoN vwD bolI jfx vflI pMjfbI nfl srfsr ivqkrf kr rhy hn. BfrqI isafsq ‘c vD irhf PfÈIvfd, DruvIkrn aqy ‘iek bolI qy iek rfÈtr’ df nfarf kyvl Bfrq ivwc hI ihMdI BfÈf nUM Cwz ky bfkI BfÈfvF df nuksfn nhIN kr irhf, sgoN kYnyzf ivwc vI pMjfbI nUM nuksfn phuMcfAux dy mfmly ‘c sB qoN vwD Gfqk bx irhf hY. kuJ vrHy pihlF kYnyzf ‘c pMjfbI gfiek gurdfs mfn vloN idwqf ivvfdgRsq ibafn ‘iek bolI iek dyÈ’ aqy mF-mfsI df ryVkf vI pMjfbIaF aMdr bolI dy afDfr ‘qy pfVf pfAux vflf ‘Gfqk pRcfr’ ho inbiVaf hY.

kYnyzf vsdy pMjfbIaF nUM ienHF vlgxF qoN Auwpr AuwT ky swc ‘qy pihrf dyx dI loV hY. jykr Auh pMjfbI hn qF afpxI bolI pMjfbI hI ilKvfAux, nf ik afpxy iÌrky, jfq jF isafsI pRBfv aDIn mF-bolI nfl DoKf krn. asIN afpxy kfrobfr aqy vpfr mOky vwD qoN vwD pMjfbI bolI bolIey aqy sfien borzF aqy ibjns kfrzF ‘qy aMgryËI dy nfl-nfl ‘gurmuKI’ ivwc jfxkfrI aqy nF ilKvfeIey. afE, cyqf nf BuwlIey, GrF ivc bolI jfx vflI Ëubfn mF bolI pMjfbI ilKfeIey aqy roË afpo-afpxy pwDr ‘qy pMjfbI leI do Èbd ËrUr ilKIey. iksy vI rUp ivwc bolI leI pRcfr krIey. kYnyzf vsdy pMjfbIaF dI aglI pIVHI nUM afpxI ‘Ëbfn’ aqy ‘pCfx’ nfl joVI rwKx leI ieh ËrUrI hY ik mF bolI pMjfbI vwD qoN vwD bolIey aqy ieh gwl kdy nf BuwlIey; bolI sfzf mfx hY, bolI lvo sMBfl. jo bolI nhIN sFBdy, Auh ny mno kMgfl.

DrqI hY pMjfb dI, KuwlHy bVy skUl. pMjfbI nUM ivqkrf, ikwQy gey asUl?

ilwpI sfzI gurmuKI, pMjfbI dI Èfn. iehI ilwpI ZuwkvIN, ijAuN klbUq ‘c jfn.

90 PIsd lok sMqry qy ikMnU KrIdx smyN krdy hn ieh glqI, nhIN jfxdy kI hY Prk

ikMnU df iClkf pqlf qy mulfiem hoxf cfhIdf hY. Pl df rMg hlkf nrMgI jF pIlf ho skdf hY. ikMnU nUM hwQ nfl iCwl ky dyKo, jy iCwlkf afsfnI nfl inkl jfvy qF ieh qfËf qy imwTf hovygf.

sMqry qy ikMnU dovyN imwTy qy Kwty suafd vfly Pl hn. jo srdIaF dy mOsm ivwc bfËfr ivwc afsfnI nfl imldy hn. ieh Pl nf isrÌ suafdI huMdy hn, sgoN ivtfimn sI qy hor pOÈitk qwqF nfl BrpUr vI huMdy hn, jo sfzI ishq leI bhuq lfBdfiek huMdy hn. hflFik qusIN jfxdy ho ik sMqrf qy ikMnU dovyN vwK-vwK Pl hn? hF, aksr lok ienHF dovF nUM iewko ijhf smJdy hn qy KrIddfrI krdy smyN glqI krdy hn. afE awj asIN ienHF do PlF ivwc aMqr nUM ikvyN smJIey qy pCfx krIey, afE jfxdy hF.

mUl qy pRjfqI

sMqrf qy ikMnU dovyN hI istrs (iCtrus) pirvfr nfl sbMDq rwKdy hn pr ienHF dI pRjfqI qy mUl vwK-vwK hY. sMqry ijs nUM ivigafnI BfÈf ‘c istrs sfeInyniss (iCtrus isneniss) ikhf jFdf hY, cIn qy dwKx-pUrbI eyÈIaf ivwc pYdf hoieaf sI. ies dy nfl hI ikMnU (istrs rYtIkulytf jF istrs noibils) iewk hfeIibRz pRjfqI hY, jo sMqry qy mYNzirn (Mandairn) dy sumyl qoN bixaf hY. ikMnU dI AuqpqI BfrqI Aup mhFdIp qy dwKxI eyÈIaf ivwc hoeI mMnI jfdI hY.

afkfr qy rMg

sMqry qy ikMnU dy afkfr qy rMg ivwc vI bhuq aMqr huMdf hY. sMqry afm qOr ‘qy gol qy QoVHy vwzy huMdy hn, jd ik ikMno Coty qy QoVHy ijhy cpty huMdy hn. sMqry df iClkf motf qy QoVHf Kurdrf huMdf hY, ikMnU df iClkf pqlf qy mulfiem huMdf hY. rMg dy mfmly ivwc sMqry df rMg gUVf nrMgI huMdf hY qy ikMnU hlky nrMgI jF pIly rMg dy ho skdy hn.

iCwlkf Auqfrn ‘c afsfnI

suafd ‘c Ìrk

suafd dy mfmly ivwc dovF PlF ivwc aMqr huMdf hY. sMqry df suafd imwTf qy Kwtf huMdf hY qy ies ivwc rs dI mfqrf vDyry huMdI hY. ies dy nfl hI ikMnU df suafd sMqry nfloN imwTf qy Gwt Kwtf huMdf hY. ikMnU ivwc rs dI mfqrf QoVHI Gwt huMdI hY pr ies df suafd vDyry KuÈbUdfr qy qfËf huMdf hY. iks ‘c huMdy hn iËafdf bIj

sMqry qy ikMnU ivwc bIjF dI igxqI vI vwKvwK huMdI hY. sMqry ivwc bIjF dI igxqI iËafdf huMdI hY, jdoN ik ikMnU ivwc Gwt jF iblkul vI bIj nhIN huMdy hn. iehI kfrn hY ik ikMnU nUM Kfx leI vDyry suivDfjnk mMinaf jFdf hY.

pOÈitk qwqF ‘c aMqr

dovF PlF ivwc ivtfimn sI, PfeIbr qy aYNtIafksIzYNt BrpUr mfqrf ivwc pfey jFdy hn. hflFik sMqry ivwc iËafdf ivtfimn sI huMdf hY, jdoN ik ikMnU ivwc iËafdf ÈUgr huMdI hY. ies leI jy quhfnUM imwTf suafd psMd hY qF ikMnU iewk vDIaf afpÈn ho skdf hY. KrIddfrI krdy smyN ienHF gwlF df rwKo iDafn

sMqry KrIdx smyN: sMqry df iClkf cmkdfr qy gUVHf nrMgI rMg df hoxf cfhIdf hY. Pl nUM hlkf ijhf dbfE, jy ieh QoVHf ijhf nrm mihsUs hovy qF ieh pwikaf hoieaf qy rsIlf hovygf. iClkf motf qy Kurdrf hoxf cfhIdf hY.

ikMnU KrIddy smyN: ikMnU df iClkf pqlf qy mulfiem hoxf cfhIdf hY. Pl df rMg hlkf nrMgI jF pIlf ho skdf hY. ikMnU nUM hwQ nfl iCwl ky dyKo, jy iCwlkf afsfnI nfl inkl jfvy qF ieh qfËf qy imwTf hovygf.

sMqry df iClkf Auqfrnf sMqry dI qulnf ivwc bhuq afsfn huMdf hY. ikMnU df iClkf pqlf qy iZwlf huMdf hY, ijs nUM afsfnI nfl hwQf nfl lfieaf jf skdf hY. dUjy pfsy sMqry df iClkf motf qy icpicpf huMdf hY, ijs nUM lfAux leI cfkU dI vrqoN krnI pY skdI hY. iehI kfrn hY ik ikMnU nUM bwicaF qy bËurgF leI vDyry suivDfjnk mMinaf jFdf hY.

mylf idn cfr

ajYb isMG ilwdV 604 8253131

muwk jfxf dunIaf qoN jdoN qyrf aMn pfxI imwqrf vy

suwqf rhIN iswDIaF qUM iPr qfxI imwqrf vy

qYnUM iksy nhIN bulfAuxf qyrf nF lY imwqrf vy

qYnUM iksy nhIN bulfAuxf

iekwTy ijAUx dIaF jo kdy ksmF sI pfAuNdy

peI lfÈ dyK qyrI sB awKF ny GumfAuNdy

irhf iËhnF df qUM bx ky shfrf imwqrf vy

qYnUM iksy nI bulfAuxf qyrf nF lY imwqrf vy

qYnUM iksy nI bulfAuxf

Gr vfilaF ny qYnUM bws swcy idloN rOxf bfkI

ÌrË inBfAuxf

qyrf dyK ky jnfËf keIaF mn smJfAuxf

swqF idnF ipwCoN cwlo sB AuhI cfl imwqrf vy

qYnUM iksy nI bulfAuxf qyrf nF lY imwqrf vy

qYnUM iksy nI bulfAuxf

tuwtI sfhF vflI zor nfl hI nfm muwk jfxf

hr iewk ny hI kih ky qYnUM murdf bulfAuxf

myrI mF

suwKdyv sMDU

jo nfl rihMdy qyry

lwgU AuhnF nUM vI

qyry koÜoN zr imwqrf vy

qYnUM iksy nI bul-

fAuxf qyrf nF lY imwqrf vy

qYnUM iksy nI bulfAuxf

cfr bMidaF ny moiZaF qy cuwk rfh isivaF

dy pYxf

keIaF dUroN hI Klo ky qYnUM alivdf kihxf

lYNdf iËhnF idaF sfhf ivwc sfh sI imwqrf vy

qYnUM iksy nI bulfAuxf qyrf nF lY imwqrf vy

qYnUM iksy nI bulfAuxf

idn Zlxy qoN pihlF ajYb qYnUM icKf qy iltfAuxf

qyry afpxy prfieaF sfQ AuwQy qfeIN inBfAuxf

inafVy vfly jwg Auwqy mylf idn cfr imwqrf vy

qYnUM iksy nI bulfAuxf qyrf nF lY imwqrf vy

qYnUM iksy nI bulfAuxf

pihlF myrf Gr qyrf pyt sI

ijwQy ilKy gey myry lyK sI

BOrf PuwlF dI sugMd df ipafrf

Puwl suwky qF Auh ho jfvy inkfrf

mF df ipafr sdf bhfr

vDy Puly Ausdf sMsfr

jnm dfqI qyrf nF

sdf kry kurbfnI mF

svrg BI qyrf dUsrf nF

qyrI prbq nfloN vI AuwcI QF

ruwsy rwb nUM ardfs krky mnfAuxF pYNdf

qUM kdy nf ruwsyN awqy nfhI qYnUM vizafAuxf pYNdf

qyrIaF awKF dy awQrU bwcy dIaF afsF df pfxIN

ieh afpsI irÈqf qyrI myrI khfxIN

qUM nf hI awkdI qy nf hI QwkdI

qfry zuwb jFdy pr qUM sdf rhYN jgdI

jdoN ndI cVu jfvy Ausdy iknfry GbrfAuNdy hn

mF sdf ijAuNdI rhY sfry hI cfhuMdy hn

kUMjF vrgI koeI zfr nf hovy mF vrgf koeI ipafr nf hovy

mYN afpxIN mF vrgf iensfn bx jfvF

Aus vrgf svrg vsfvF

mF dI inmrqf df afpxy Auwqy kMbl pfvF

Aus dy ipafr dI buwkl mfrky sfrf inwG lY jfvF

hlvfeIaf gulfb jfmn ies qrF dy bxfdy

Aus ivwc mF dI mmqf qy rUh dI imTfs rlf dy

sUrË dIaF ilÈkF aqy smuMdr dIaF CwlF

mF bfry kdI mukx nf glF

qUM rwKIN joq jgfeI mF

qUM hYN myrI TMzI CF

myK-myK-ipwq-ivkfr, mn-asLFq, GrylU-ivvfd sulJx, Dn-lfB, injI-jn-sihXog, sMpdfsuwK, sMqfn vfsqy Krc, iesqrI-ksLt kfrobfr TIk, PrvrI 19, 20, 28; mfrc 1, 9, 10 asLuwB hn.

ibRK- ibRK-isr aqy nyqr-ksLt, Dn-lfB, injI-jn-sihXog, sMpdf-lfB, sMqfn-ksLt, rog-BY, iesqrI-suwK, kfrobfr TIk. PrvrI 12, 13, 21, 22, 23; mfrc 2, 3, 11, 12 asLuwB hn.

imwQun- iimQn-ishq TIk, Dn-hfnI, bMDU-suwK, sMpqI-ivvfd, sMqfn-ksLt, iesqrI-pwK vfsqy Krc, kfrobfr TIk. PrvrI 14, 15, 24, 25; mfrc 4, 5, 13 asLuwB hn.

krk- krk-ishq TIk rhy, afriQk lfB hovy, injI-jn-icMqf, sMpqI-ivvfd, sMqfnpwK sLuwB rhy, iesqrI-suwK, kfrobfr gVbVfey. PrvrI 16, 17, 18, 26, 27; mfrc 6, 7, 8 asLuwB hn.

isMG- isMG-ishq TIk, Dn-lfB, injI-jn-ksLt, sMpqI-suwK, sMqfn-pwK sLuwB, iesqrIksLt, kfrobfr ivwc pRgqI. PrvrI 19, 29, 28, mfrc 1, 9, 10 asLuwB hn.

kMinaf- kMinaf-ishq TIk, mfnisk ksLt, GrylU JgVy, imwqr-bMDU qoN mdd imly, sMpdf-lfB, Drmkrm ivwc AuWnqI, kfrobfr TIk. PrvrI 12, 13, 21, 22, 23; mfrc 2, 3, 11, 12 asLuwB hn.

qulf- qulf-Audr-ivkfr, mn asLFq, sLuwB-Krc, bMDU-suwK, sMpdf-lfB, sMqfn bfry icMqf, iesqrIksLt, kfrobfr TIk. PrvrI 14, 15, 24, 25; mfrc 4, 5, 13 asLuwB hn.

ibRsick- ibRsLick-ishq TIk, iesqrI-pwK qoN lfB, bMDU-suwK, sMpdf-suwK, sMqfn-suwK, dusLmx aqy rog-BY, iesqrI-suwK, kfrobfr TIk. PrvrI 16, 17, 18, 26, 27; mfrc 6, 7, 8 asLuwB hn.

DwnU- Dn-ishq TIk, ivsLysL Krc, Brf dI icMq, sMpqI-suwK, sMqfn-ksLt, dusLmx dby rihx, iesqrI-pwK sLuwB, kfrobfr ivwc qbdIlI. PrvrI 19, 20, 28; mfrc 1, 9, 10 asLuwB hn.

mkr- mkr-ishq TIk, Dn-lfB, injI-jn sihXog, sMpdf-ivvfd, sMqfn-pwK sLuwB, iesqrI-suwK, kfrobfr ivwc rukfvt. PrvrI 12, 13, 21, 22, 23; mfrc 2, 3, 11, 12 asLuwB hn.

kuMB- kuMB-vfXU-ivkfr, Dn-lfB, injI-jnF nfl ivgfV, sMpdf-suwK, sMqfn-pwK sLuwB, iesqrI-suwK, kfrobfr ivwc vfDf. PrvrI 14, 15, 24, 25; mfrc 4, 5, 13 asLuwB hn.

mIn- mIn-ishq TIk, GrylU-JMJt, injI-jnF nfl myl, sMpdf-lfB, sMqfn-pwK sLuwB, iesqrI-pwK qoN icMqf, kfrobfr TIk. PrvrI 16, 17, 18, 26, 27; mfrc 6, 7, 8 asLuwB hn.

Be cautious about what you bring to an end or the way in which you go about winding something up, especially if you think it will open up more choices. The situation will have to be revisited mid April next year. Other things would have changed by then. It might be wiser to let things take their own course right now.

Something that started off as a small thing when it comes to helping out somebody else that seems to keep on growing would be best dealt with now, especially if it is turning into a habit or interfering with your regular routines. It has probably taught you to take more notice of what is important to you, rather than getting distracted..

New directions involving other people can be smooth running if things are done their way. While there might be a lot in common, their determination might clash with yours. If you have been attempting to come to an agreement, this might need to be left for now and revisited mid April as things will likely have changed by then.

Something is winding up on a personal level perhaps in ways you were not expecting that is generating thought of all sorts of possibilities in the long term. Someone can play a powerful role here. However it is to eventually settle will not become evident until January to April next year. Meanwhile just go with the flow.

You can have success in getting something out of the way that has been on your mind for a while but the energy just hasn’t been there. Not that you will feel overly energised just yet. It is more a realisation that time is running out. You know you will feel a lot better once this is done, especially if others have a good view of it.

Something needs to be put into place once and for all so that you know what needs to be spent rather than other things coming up all the time. Whatever you do now can create changes that may not be fully implemented until next year, between January and April. You need to be straightforward and practical with any discussions.

There can be a willingness to let something go that has been a personal priority but doesn’t fit well with someone else. It will be more important to establish underlying stability in situations involving others. This can be temporary as other opportunities to focus on your wishes will arise next year from January to April. Patience can pay off.

The New Moon this week occurs in your sign providing you with the opportunity to generate changed directions on a personal level. Anything that has not been heading in the direction you had hoped might be better let go right now. Becoming more practical can appeal to you, especially when it comes to stability with finances.

There can be new directions building up in the background that will provide the opportunity to put a stable foundation in place. This is likely tied into the decisions of somebody else and something may need to wind up so they can take the next step. There could be more than one stage of development attached to this as well.

It might be time to develop a new attitude when it comes to commitments or obligations in your life, especially if they affect your finances. If you have accepted things without thinking, you could recognise this has to stop. This can only happen when you take the time to analyse what you can realistically manage and follow through.

Changes in somebody else’s life may make you realise things are moving on and it will not be the same for you. This is encouraging you to think about what is important to you. It can actually be freeing you up to do so. This is a first stage. New people can come into your life, especially from January to April next year.

New possibilities in the long term can begin to feel more probable or realistic. This could leave behind a level of personal doubt or insecurity. This can be tied to you becoming more aware of what has been important for a long time but needs to be modified in some way for the future. The second stage can occur January to April next year.

Minister’s statement on January Labour Force Survey results

Diana Gibson, Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation, has issued the following statement on the release of Statistics Canada’s Labour Force Survey for January 2025:

“We’re standing strong and defending British Columbians, workers, and industries against tariff threats from the United States. We are encouraged by the news that there will be a 30-day pause on the tariffs. Now, it’s full steam ahead on strengthening our economy to defend B.C. from this threat.

“We are fast-tracking major economic projects to deliver good paying, familysupporting jobs throughout the entire province and we are working hard to get B.C. goods to new markets, including the ongoing push to knock down trade barriers within Canada. So many people are coming together to buy B.C. and support Canadian products first.

“As B.C.’s minister of jobs, economic development and innovation, I met with my ministerial counterparts on the federal Committee on Internal Trade on Jan. 31 in Toronto to discuss expediting negotiations

to reduce barriers to trade across the country. Increasing trade across the country is a key part of B.C.’s tariff-response strategy.

“B.C. has continued to show strength with a gain of 10,300 private-sector jobs in January – the third largest increase among provinces. B.C. has gained 178,900 private-sector jobs since July 2017.

“B.C. has also gained 19,900 full-time jobs since December 2024, the secondhighest increase in full-time jobs among provinces.

“B.C.’s unemployment rate is 6.0%, one of the lowest unemployment rates among provinces and below the national average of 6.6%. B.C.’s average hourly wage is $37.53, the highest among provinces.

“Today's Labour Force Survey data shows a growth of 8,700 jobs in manufacturing, 6,100 in retail trade and 5,200 in construction, among other types of jobs. Construction has gained 24,500 jobs, compared to this time last year.

“The current global uncertainty posed by potential tariffs from the United States

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puts all of this at risk. That’s why we’re taking action to defend B.C. jobs in the face of this threat. The Committee on Internal Trade meeting last Friday provided an opportunity to boldly move forward to unlock markets and the flow of goods and services between provinces and territories.

“Right now, the provinces have conflicting regulations and rules, causing barriers to trade across the country. B.C. is working with our provincial counterparts to create a list of regulatory requirements in each

jurisdiction, with the intention of achieving an agreement where regulations can be mutually recognized that will cover all goods and services sold or used in Canada.

“British Columbia has been a leader in reducing internal trade barriers and is one of the founding parties of the New West Partnership Trade Agreement, a regional trade enhancement agreement that surpasses the Canadian Free Trade Agreement in terms of ambition, coverage of economic sectors and lack of exceptions.”

Supportive-living home for people with brain injuries coming to Parksville

People living with significant health challenges because of an acquired brain injury will soon have access to improved care and rehabilitation-focused support through a new purpose-built supportive-living home.

“Receiving care as close to home as possible makes a huge difference for people recovering from injuries, especially one as serious as a brain injury,” said Josie Osborne, Minister of Health. “That’s why we’re bringing dedicated and rehabilitation-focused brain injury programs to community settings like Parksville. This new supportive-living home will provide the specialized services patients need, helping them to recover closer to their families and loved ones.”

Following a request-for-proposals process for 16 beds and a service provider, Island Health awarded a contract to Connect Communities, a Langley-based organization that specializes in providing services for people living with brain injuries. Connect will construct a condostyle supportive-living home where staff will deliver 24/7 intensive care aimed at improving wellness, and promoting independent living and community integration.

Connect Parksville will be a 28-bed facility, with the remaining beds available to nonIsland Health clients. Parksville council approved rezoning for the site at 365 Moilliet St. in October 2024.

As part of the Island Health contract, Connect will offer 24-hour support services for 16 clients living with brain injuries. This includes eight short-term bedrooms for individuals transitioning to independent living and eight long-term bedrooms for individuals requiring ongoing care. The facility will serve clients from central and north Vancouver Island.

The comprehensive brain injury program will offer a range of therapies, including occupational, physio, speech-language and recreational programs, as well as social work and psychology services. The people supported by Connect Parksville will also receive personal care, medication management, lifeskills training, and opportunities for cultural and social activities.

Construction began in January 2025, with Connect Parksville estimated to open in March 2026.

From blank canvas to cozy retreat: Tips for personalizing your new home

Moving into a newly built house is the perfect opportunity to start from scratch and create a space that reflects your lifestyle and taste. Here are five easy ways to transform a new build into your dream home: Modify the layout. Many new builds, like the ones in Calgary’s Alpine Park, offer pre-planned options or customizations for flex spaces like a den or an additional room. Turning this area into a dedicated crafting room, home gym or office is a great way to make your house work for you.

Add stylish light fixtures. Lighting is key to setting the mood in any

room. Consider upgrading to a statement chandelier, pendant lights or sleek wall sconces. Layering lighting and adding timers or dimmer switches can go a long way towards creating the perfect ambiance for every area of your home.

Create custom cabinetry. Tailor your kitchen cabinets to suit your needs and vision, whether that means open shelving, handy built-in pantry cupboards or even two-tone finishes for a more personalized look. You can also organize your cabinets by creating custom storage solutions with interior shelves and hanging rods where you need them.

Extend your living spaces. Think of your backyard as an extension of your living or family room. By adding a deck or a pergola, you can create an area that doubles as a relaxing oasis or additional entertainment zone that you can enjoy in multiple seasons.

Elevate the details. A fireplace can be a cozy focal point in your living room, vaulted ceilings with faux beams bring a timeless aesthetic, or unique tile designs can reflect your personality in the kitchen or bathroom.

BC Coroners Service announces inquest into the death of Cailin Shea McIntyre-Starko

A coroner’s inquest has been scheduled to review the circumstances of the death of Cailin Shea McIntyreStarko, known as Sidney.

The public inquest will begin on Monday, April 28, 2025, at the Burnaby Coroners’ Court (20th floor, 4720 Kingsway, Metrotower II, Metrotown, Burnaby), starting at 9:30 a.m.

The death of Sidney McIntyreStarko, 18, was reported to the BC Coroners Service on Jan. 26, 2024, in Victoria.

Under Section 19(1) of the Coroners Act, the minister of public safety and solicitor general may order an inquest if the minister is satisfied it is necessary or desirable in the public interest that an inquest be held.

A coroner’s inquest is a non-faultfinding public inquiry that serves three primary functions:

to determine the facts related to a death, including the identity of the deceased and how, when, where and by what means the individual came to their death, as well as a classification for the death; to make recommendations, where appropriate and supported by evidence, to prevent deaths in similar circumstances; and

to ensure public confidence that the circumstances surrounding the death of an individual will not be overlooked, concealed or ignored.

Larry Marzinzik will be the presiding coroner. He and a jury will hear

evidence from witnesses under oath to determine the facts surrounding this death. The jury will have the opportunity to make recommendations as outlined above, though a jury must not make any finding of legal responsibility or express any conclusion of law.

Livestreaming allows the public and media to virtually attend an inquest. The same rules apply as for in-person attendance at an inquest. Reproduction, broadcasting and publishing of inquest proceedings is prohibited, including through social media. Supreme Court accredited media are permitted to record the proceeding solely for the accuracy of their notes. The recording is not to be broadcast in any form. Accredited media members must provide proof to the sheriff

and always visibly display their accreditation when they are recording or using electronic devices in court. Recording for any other purpose or by anyone without appropriate accreditation is strictly prohibited.

Learn More:

For more information about inquests, visit: https://www2.gov. bc.ca/gov/content/life-events/ death/coroners-service/inquestschedule-jury-findings-verdicts

To access the livestream, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/life-events/death/coronersservice/inquest-schedule-juryfindings-verdicts/inquestlivestream

To learn more about BC Coroners Service, visit: https://www.gov. bc.ca/coroners/

I n Loving M emor y of Rattan Singh Heer

Funeral service

Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 12 PM

Fraser River Funeral Home 2061 Riverside Rd, Abbotsford, BC

Followed by Sehaj Path Bhog at 1:30 PM

Khalsa Diwan Society 33094 South Fraser Way, Abbotsford BC

Jasbir Bhogal

Sales & Lease Consultant

Phone: 604-300-2885

Email: jbhogal@murraygmabbotsford.com

Rushal Chawla

Financial Services Manager

Phone: 604-300-7015

Email: rchawla@murraygmabbotsford.com

Sunil Desai

Sales Manager

Phone: 778-868-5757

Email: sdesai@murraygmabbotsford.com

Ned Bhatti

Sales & Lease Consultant

Phone: 604-308-4944

Email: nbhatti@murraygmabbotsford.com

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