Indo-Canadian Voice Main - Dec 17 2022

Chandigarh

TWENTY-THREE gurdwara societies from across B.C. have urged the Government of India to reinstate the highly popular E-Visa and 10-year visas as soon as possible, and introduce flights between Vancouver and Amritsar and/or Chandigarh.

They have also made other suggestions to end delays in the processing of visa applications that are causing frustration.

Representatives of the gurdwara societies met with Indian Consul General Manish in Vancouver on November 28 and sent him the following letter signed by Malkiat Singh Dhami, President, Khalsa Diwan Society, Vancouver, on their behalf on November 30 that they released to the media this week:

We are thankful to you for taking the time to meet with us, the gurdwara societies representing the South Asian community, on Monday, November 28, 2022 to listen to our concerns about a number of issues affecting the South Asian community. … We appreciate the hospitality, cordiality, respect and the attention provided by you and your staff. In this context, we request you and the Government of India to:

1. Reinstate the E-Visa and ten year visas as soon as possible.

This will eliminate the long wait lines, frustration and related problems experienced by people planning to visit India. All of our Gurdwaras have been receiving complaints from our congregations and the general public facing long delays to get visas.

2. We request you and the Government of India to eliminate the need for Form A of those engaged in public service in Canada. This added requirement simply adds more time in processing the visa applications.

3. We request you encourage the BLS [BLS India Visa Application Centre] to increase the number of their staff in

order to minimize the delay in processing visa applications.

4. We request you and the Government of India to urge the Airlines serving passengers between Canada and India to commence their services between Vancouver and Amritsar and/or Chandigarh, Punjab as soon as possible. Thank you for your time and attention.

The representatives were from the following gurdwara societies:

Khalsa Diwan Society, Vancouver; Akali Singh Sikh Society (Vancouver); Khalsa Diwan Society, Abbotsford; Gurdwara Sahib Brookside (Surrey); Sri Guru Ravidas Sabha (Burnaby); Gurdwara

Nanak Niwas (Richmond); Khalsa Diwan Society York Center (surrey); Bear Creek Hall Gurdwara (Surrey); Guru Govind Singh Temple (Prince George); Guru Nanak Sikh Temple (Williams Lake); Cariboo Gursikh Temple (Quesnel); Vancouver Island Sikh Cultural Society (Duncan); Okanagan Sikh Temple (Kelowna); Mission Sikh Temple (Mission); Gurdwara Sahib-Miri-Piri Khalsa Darwar (Terrace); Khalsa Diwan Society Sikh Temple (Victoria); Khalsa Diwan Society, Nanaimo; Guru Nanak Sikh Society (Campbell River); Sikh Temple (Squamish); Sikh Cultural Society (Kamloops), Merrit Sikh Temple (Merrit); Alberni Valley Gurdwara Society (Port Alberni); and Gurdwara Guru Teg Bahadur Sahib (Surrey).

Guru Nanak Food Bank’s third and largest location opens in North Delta on December 19

GURU Nanak Food Bank is opening its third and largest location in North Delta at 1118 84 Avenue on December 19.

GNFB will be North Delta’s first full time food bank opening seven days a week: Monday to Friday from 1 to 6 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The ‘No Boundaries’ facility will serve all comers regardless of faith or city of residence and one day in the week will be dedicated to serve the seniors, GNFB said in a statement.

GNFB thanked Delta Mayor George V. Harvie and Delta City Council for contributing $10,000 to the new food bank.

Guru Nanak Food Bank has been a nonprofit charitable organization since July 2020 working from Surrey and Abbotsford.

For more information: 604-580-1313 / info@gnfb.ca

Malkiat Singh Dhami. Photo by Sukhwant Singh Dhillon

Indian Consul General Manish. Photo submitted

One-sided report to retain RCMP in Surrey passed by Surrey Council

THE one-sided plan on retaining the RCMP in Surrey that has been ridiculed by the Surrey Police Service and analysts not connected to the RCMP was, as had been expected, passed by Surrey Connect Mayor Brenda Locke, the four Surrey Connect councillors Harry Bains, Pardeep Kooner, Rob Stutt, Gordon Hepner and Surrey First Councillor Mike Bose in Surrey Council on Monday night.

Safe Surrey Coalition councillors Doug Elford and Mandeep Nagra and Surrey First Councillor Linda Annis opposed the plan.

A press statement issued by

the City said: “By keeping the RCMP, a total cost savings of $235.4M would be realized over the next five years. Council approved the plan after reviewing a fiveyear financial analysis of the transition to the Surrey Police Service (SPS) versus

retaining the Surrey RCMP. The full transition to SPS would cost $1,160.2M while retaining the Surrey RCMP would cost $924.8M over five years.

“The key element of the ‘Policing Surrey’ Plan involves HR strategies to reach, and maintain, 734 operational RCMP members in Surrey.

The Plan takes a peoplecentric approach and the City and the RCMP will work with interested staff to find career enhancement opportunities.”

The plan makes unrealistic assumptions about hiring officers for the understaffed Surrey RCMP.

The report has already been trashed by objective analysts and is bound to be rejected by Public Safety Minister and Solicitor General Mike Farnworth who has the final say on the matter of reversing the ongoing police transition.

The SPS and the RCMP also have to submit their reports to Farnworth.

The South Asian community has opposed any reversal of the ongoing transition and warned about the adverse consequences.

As The VOICE has repeatedly pointed out, former mayor Doug McCallum won the election in 2018 with 45,564 votes — 41.08% of the total votes — to replace the RCMP with a municipal police force, whereas Locke won with only 33,311 votes — 28.14% of the total votes to keep the RCMP in the city. What is more, Locke won by fewer than 1,000 votes.

From day one, Surrey Police Service has been designed for Surrey: Chief Constable Lipinski

SURREY Police Service Chief Constable Norm Lipinski in a message to Surrey residents on Wednesday stressed that “from day one, Surrey Police Service has been designed for Surrey, adding: “You can see it in the people we have hired, how we communicate, and what we prioritize in our daily work.”

Regarding Surrey City Council’s attempt to reverse the ongoing policing transition, Lipinski noted: “This is an unprecedented situation where a police agency was approved and stood up over two years ago, and now Council is seeking to reverse course and shut down a police agency with 375 employees who joined SPS in good faith.”

Here is the full text of Lipinski’s message:

As 2022 comes to a close and Surrey Police Service (SPS) finishes its second year, I am reminded that sometimes you have to take a moment to look back to see how far you have come. SPS has indeed come a long way in twelve short months. Our staff team has doubled in the

past year and our number of officers deployed to answer calls for service has gone from just 29 to 187. Collectively, these officers have responded to thousands of calls for service – saving lives, protecting the vulnerable, conducting investigations, and helping to make Surrey safer. The rest of our team has been busy either training in preparation for deployment, or building the extensive infrastructure required for a new police agency.

This year also marked a number of other milestones for SPS including the release of our first strategic plan, which was informed by community consultation; welcoming our first two classes of Recruit Constables; and the implementation of the SPS-RCMP Human Resources Plan to guide phase one of the policing transition. However, our greatest accomplishment this year has been our extensive engagement with Surrey residents, youth, and diverse community groups. SPS officers frequently engage with the public while out on patrol, and our Community Policing Bureau staff conduct regular community consultation meetings to further inform the development of our community policing

model. Over 600 community engagements have been conducted in 2022 – and this is only the beginning. While we have made great progress on the policing transition this past year, we unfortunately end the year with some uncertainty as the City of Surrey explores their options for policing.

Surrey City Council recently voted to submit the City’s Plan to Retain the RCMP as the Police of Jurisdiction in Surrey to the Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General for his consideration. I am concerned that the assumptions and omissions in the report do not provide residents with an accurate picture of their options for the future of policing in Surrey.

There are a number of reasons why large municipalities such as Vancouver, Calgary and Toronto choose to have their own municipal police service, instead of contracting the RCMP. Ultimately, the choice to have a municipal police agency is about increased accountability and responsiveness. While the cost is often slightly higher to a municipality, the benefits of municipal policing are significant.

From day one, Surrey Police Service has been designed for Surrey. You can see it in the people we have hired, how we communicate, and what we prioritize in our daily work. If we are fortunate enough to become Surrey’s police of jurisdiction, you will see it reflected in the programs we will offer to keep you and your families safe, our responsiveness to local issues, and the long-term relationships our officers will build within the community.

This is an unprecedented situation where a police agency was approved and stood up over two years ago, and now Council is seeking to reverse course and shut down a police agency with 375 employees who joined SPS in good faith. This is a difficult situation for the employees of both SPS and the Surrey RCMP. I think it is safe to say that we are all hopeful for a prompt, but carefully considered decision by the Minister early in the new year.

I wish all Surrey residents and business owners a peaceful and safe holiday season, and I thank you for the support and input you have provided to SPS in 2022.

THE Safe Surrey Coalition, reacting to the just-released City of Surrey draft corporate report on the policing transition, pointed out on Monday that the findings of City of Surrey staff that remaining with the RCMP will save $235.4 million is a huge discrepancy from what Mayor Brenda Locke and her party claimed during the election campaign.

The estimates that were apparently confirmed by nowelected Councillor Pardeep Kooner, who is a CPA, declared that savings would be $520 million, representing a $285 million shortfall, the SSC noted.

It added: “In addition, these projections from the city do not factor in the range of costs associated with deconstructing the three unions that are currently constituted within the framework of the Surrey Police Service. Early estimates speculate that the supposed savings may drop to $150 million.”

Safe Surrey Coalition called on Locke to provide a fulsome explanation of how she came to the grossly inaccurate figures that are responsible for her victory.

It said: “Further, we are hoping to see an apology from the Mayor’s entire caucus, who are now known to have been elected on the false information they provided to the electorate.”

Key assumptions in

Surrey Police

THE Surrey Police Service (SPS) on Monday pointed out that as the City of Surrey continues to explore their options for the current policing transition, their Plan to Retain the RCMP as the Police of Jurisdiction in Surrey raises a number of concerns, stemming from the plan’s overreliance on financial and human resource assumptions.

It said that it was not consulted on the City’s report, and is concerned that the assumptions and omissions in the report do not provide Surrey residents with an accurate picture of their options for the future of policing in Surrey.

Some of these concerns are:

* Over-estimation (27-50%) of the number of SPS officers who would transfer to the Surrey RCMP that is not supported by the Surrey Police Union’s survey of its membership (94% stating they are not interested in joining the RCMP).

* Assumption that SPS will have difficulty recruiting the remaining 419 officers, when SPS has a proven ability to hire new and experienced officers with over 2,500+ applications received in under two years. This is unprecedented interest for any Canadian police agency. Conversely, the report does not mention the RCMP’s documented recruiting challenges and labour shortages.

* No consideration of the more than $100M in unrecoverable costs that the City and taxpayers have already invested in having their own municipal police service, including more than $17M in IT infrastructure that would

primarily be incompatible with the RCMP IT environment.

* The notion of a nine-month pause to allow for the approval of phase two of the transition to SPS. During this period, the report asserts that no further RCMP officers would be demobilized, and no additional SPS officers would be deployed, while SPS would continue to hire. This is not a reasonable or fiscally responsible assumption.

* Assumption that the transition to SPS would take another five years. This is inconsistent with previous discussions between the three levels of government and seems excessive given SPS’s proven ability to hire.

* An estimation that SPS would cost $31.9M more per year than the RCMP, while SPS calculations estimate the cost difference would be $18.3M;

“We believe that the many assumptions made in this report have contributed to the City

providing an inflated cost to taxpayers to continue with the transition to SPS, which they have stated is $235.4M over five years,” said SPS Chief Constable Norm Lipinski. “It should be further noted that this amount was previously purported to be $520M over four years by Surrey Connect during the recent municipal election.”

SPS said that until the provincial government makes the final decision on the policing transition, it remains committed to serving Surrey and to the provinciallyapproved policing transition plan. SPS has an obligation to continue with the deployments laid out in the plan, as the addition of our SPS officers are needed to maintain public safety and appropriate police staffing levels.

“This is truly an unprecedented situation where a police agency was approved and stood up over two years ago, and now a new Council is seeking to potentially reverse course and shut down a police agency with 375 employees who joined SPS in good faith,” said Lipinski. “This is a difficult situation for the employees of both SPS and the Surrey RCMP. I think it is safe to say that we are all hopeful for a prompt, but carefully considered decision by the [Public Safety] Minister early in the new year.”

Surrey Police Service is also preparing a report for the Province of BC that will detail SPS’s ability to police Surrey safely and effectively, and to achieve all of the requirements to become the police of jurisdiction in a timely manner. The report will be delivered to the Province by December 22.

SPS Chief Constable Norm Lipinski.

Photo submitted

ICBC files for no increase to basic insurance rates for two more years

inflation and the cost of everyday life increasing, ICBC is able to keep basic insurance rates stable for British Columbians for another two years.”

“Our

David

With the introduction of Enhanced Care in May 2021, auto insurance rates in British Columbia have gone from some of the most expensive in Canada to being among the most affordable. A Canada-wide rate comparison report by Ernst and Young looked at 30 different driver profiles and compared how much auto insurance would cost in nine provinces across Canada. The report found that British Columbians pay among the lowest auto insurance rates in Can-

ada.

“A key priority with Enhanced Care was to make insurance rates more affordable and to keep them that way, and this rate application continues to deliver on that,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General.

“We are pleased that, during this time of rising

If the BCUC approves the application, British Columbians will continue to benefit from stable and more affordable basic auto insurance rates for another two years.

“This filing means British Columbians will have seen no increase to basic insurance rates for five years. We’re very pleased to see Enhanced Care continues to deliver on one of its key principles: more affordable auto insurance for our customers,” said Nicolas Jimenez, President and CEO, ICBC.

In support of ICBC’s basic insurance rate application, government has provided direction to BCUC to ensure ICBC builds sufficient capital reserves, which paves the way for a two-year rate filing.

The Province says that along with more affordable and stable insurance rates, Enhanced Care

Kevin Falcon opposed Eby’s move to lower ICBC rates: NDP

THE NDP on Monday pointed out that the freeze in ICBC basic rates just announced by Premier David Eby was a result of changes he introduced in 2020 that were opposed by BC Liberal Leader Kevin Falcon.

During his bid for the BC Liberal Leadership, Falcon criticized Eby’s enhanced care model and referred to ICBC rate reductions and rebates as “stupid little cheques.”

Falcon’s BC Liberal col-

leagues opposed legislative changes to ICBC in 2020 that have made BC car insurance among the most affordable in the country, the NDP said.

As Finance Minister in 2012, Falcon hiked insurance

rates by 11% while taking half billion dollars out of ICBC.

NDP MLA Aman Singh said: “In government, Kevin Falcon hiked rates while taking money from ICBC to pay for tax breaks for the wealthiest. In opposition,

is providing British Columbians with some of the best care, recovery and income-replacement benefits available in Canada. Under Enhanced Care, British Columbians injured in crashes can have peace of mind knowing they will be supported with benefits when they need them for as long as they need them.

he opposed David Eby’s changes to reduce car insurance rates by 20%. His record shows that he would make life harder and more expensive for people, just like before.”

Premier David Eby

IHIT identifies Surrey homicide victim as 40-year-old Harpreet Kaur Gill

INTEGRATED Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) has identified Wednesday’s homicide victim in Surrey as 40-year-old Harpreet Kaur Gill in the hopes of furthering their investigation.

On December 7 at 9:22 p.m., Surrey RCMP responded to a report of a stabbing in the 12700-block of 66 Avenue. Officers found a woman in medical distress, resulting from multiple stab wounds. Despite the best efforts of first responders, the woman succumbed to her injuries after being transported

to a local hospital.

A 40-year-old man, known to the victim, was arrested at the scene and taken into police custody. IHIT has taken conduct of the investigation and continues to work closely with the Surrey RCMP. The suspect was released from custody on December 8. IHIT said investigators continue to gather evidence and are working to meet the charge approval threshold.

“Our investigators have been working non-stop,” said IHIT

Sgt. Timothy Pierotti. “These incidents have a significant impact, not only on the family and friends of the victim, but the entire community.

Surrey RCMP’s Victim Services has been engaged and is available to anyone in need of assistance.”

IHIT is asking anyone with background information regarding Kaur, or other information, to contact the IHIT Information Line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or by email at ihitinfo@ rcmp-grc.gc.ca.

Premier David Eby

Mike Farnworth

Parents reminded to promote online safety at home as youth victimized by sextortion scam

OVER 100 youth from southern Alberta have been victimized by sextortion scam offences since March and the Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) unit of Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams (ALERT) is reminding parents to promote online safety in the home. Sextortion scam offences have inundated ICE and the same can be said for its partner agencies across Alberta, even worldwide. ICE has partnered with colleagues from around the world, including the RCMP’s National Child Exploitation Crime Centre (NCECC), Toronto Police Service, the FBI, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and the Australian Federal Police to investigate and disrupt sextortion offences.

Recently, ICE’s international partnership proved valuable with the arrest of an Australian-based offender who extorted $1,000 from a Calgary youth. ICE’s investigation traced the recipient of the proceeds of crime and an arrest was made in September. “It’s heart-breaking to see first-hand the devastating impact these types of offences are having on kids, and our colleagues in the U.S. have linked sextortion to more than a dozen suicides. ICE units worldwide are collaborating to investigate, but we really need help in raising further awareness and making sure these conversations are taking place in homes and schools,” said Detective Dean Jacobs, ALERT ICE.

“Our unit has handled well over 100 cases, but the sad reality is that we know the numbers are much higher. There are kids out there who have fallen victim, but are also

too scared or embarrassed to seek help and resources,” said Detective Steve Brighton, ALERT ICE.

How the sextortion scam works

Sexual extortion typically involves the suspect befriending teenage youth victims via social media, usually purporting to be a female peer from a neighbouring community and /or school, or social media acquaintance. The suspect will create the appearance of a promising online relationship and will send a sexually explicit image(s) to the victim, with the demand that they reciprocate. Once obtained, the youth are threatened that this material will to be released to friends, family, or shared on the internet until a payment is made. Suspects demand payment in the form of banking information, credit card numbers, e-transfers, or gift cards.

Sextortion targeting young boys

The majority of the offences taking place over

Snapchat and Instagram and with over two thirds of all cases targeting boys between the ages of 9-17 years old. These circumstances create panic, shame, and youth are reluctant to reveal their mistake to a trusted adult.

Suspects often overseas

While the sextortion investigations are ongoing, arrests will prove challenging as the suspects are believed to be operating overseas, much the same manner as more traditional phone scammers. It is not unusual to have multiple suspects across multiple jurisdictions – some doing the extortion, some collecting the cash. Suspects, like many other online scams, are organized and motivated to obtain money in any fashion.

What to do if you are being sextorted

ICE offers the following tips if you’re being sextorted online:

* Immediately stop all communication;

* Do not comply with the threat;

* Report it online to the social media service;

* Reach out for help to a trusted adult;

* Keep the correspondence by downloading account information from the social media platform, or take screenshots;

Victims are encouraged to contact local police as digital evidence is often times sensitive and can often be deleted.

What to look out for

When talking to new people online you should be wary of:

* Unsolicited friend, follow requests or adds

from people you don’t know;

* Sudden sexualized questions or conversation;

* Getting a direct message on one app, and asking you to continue chatting on a different app;

Might say that their webcam or microphone are not working for calls/chats.

Adults play an important role in prevention

Studies show that 1 in 3 victims of sextortion never told anyone, largely due to embarrassment or shame. Building trust with kids is a key factor to making sure they get the support they need when things go wrong.

* Talk about online safety, privacy, establishing boundaries, healthy relationships and consent;

* Use real life examples of what can happen if steps are not taken to ensure friend requests are legitimate.;

* Take advantage of privacy options and ensure accounts are not left open;

* Teach them not to give in to pressure and to break off communication if they feel threatened or uncomfortable;

* Let them know it is not their fault if someone has made them feel uncomfortable.

ICE has included additional resources online for tips and awareness: www.alert-ab.ca/sextortion

In addition, the Canadian Centre for Child Protection has an extensive library of resources and research available online at: www.protectchildren.ca

British Columbians urged to prepare for cold weather, winter conditions

BRITISH Columbians should take precautions, as colder-than-normal temperatures and snow are forecast through next week, beginning Saturday, December 17.

Environment and Climate Change Canada forecasts temperatures will be five to 10 degrees Celsius below normal for the South Coast and Haida Gwaii, and 10 to 20 degrees below normal for the Interior and the North. Gusty winds will accompany the arrival of cold air. The wind chill will make it feel even colder. Drivers are reminded to plan ahead and drive according to weather and road conditions. Commuters should be prepared for delays and potential service disruptions on transit routes.

Before travelling, check the forecast. Be prepared by packing a winter survival kit, including a windshield scraper, a snow brush, flashlights and extra batteries, first-aid supplies, blankets, drinking water and non-perishable food. People should ensure their vehicles are equipped with a full tank of fuel. If stuck or stranded, people should stay in their vehicles and call 911 for roadside assistance.

Drivers can do their part by planning ahead. If weather conditions worsen, drivers should stay off the road, and if they have to travel, ensure their vehicle is properly equipped with snow tires.

Drivers can also assist maintenance crews by

moving over safely when they see a vehicle with an amber light approaching. This allows maintenance crews to clear the snow and improve road conditions to reduce hazards for drivers and help them get home safely. nificant wind.

Here are some tips to keep safe this winter: * Wear winter gear: Always wear clothing appropriate for the weather. Dressing in layers, with a wind- and water-resistant outer layer, provides flexibility for changing conditions. To avoid frostbite, cover as much exposed skin as possible by wearing hats, scarves and gloves. Try to stay dry and change out of wet clothing as soon as pos-

sible.

* Be prepared for power outages: Severe weather can cause power outages. Be prepared for up to one week by developing a household emergency plan and putting together an emergency kit. If you encounter a downed or damaged power line, assume it is live and a danger. Stay back at least 10 metres (the length of a bus) and call 911 immediately to report it.

* Winterize your home: Now is a good time to winterize your home by insulating walls and attics, weather-stripping doors and windows, clearing rain gutters and removing tree branches that could fall during windstorms.

Government expands pilot to help more skilled refugees build their careers in Canada

SEAN Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced on Tuesday new funding for partner organizations to help expand Canada’s Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP) to more skilled refugees.

Over the next few years, Canada is aiming to work with employers and communities across the country to expand the pilot and welcome 2,000 skilled refugees to fill specific labour shortages in high-demand sectors, such as health care, skilled trades and information technology.

Through the EMPP, partner organizations help skilled refugees overseas connect with employers who need to fill critical labour shortages in occupations like nurse aides and personal support workers, chefs and cooks, and skilled tradespeople.

Once candidates receive a job offer, they can apply to immigrate to Canada through existing economic programs, using EMPP measures that remove barriers refugees may experience due to their displacement.

To make it easier for qualified candidates to apply, Canada is rolling out a new and more flexible process with its trusted partners. Partners—including Talent Beyond Boundaries, TalentLift and Jumpstart Refugee Talent—will be able to directly refer and support candidates. To help them with this new role, trusted partners will receive mandatory training and go through quality assurance reviews.

In addition, Canada is providing $6.2 million to support six projects by EMPP partner organizations. These projects will build the capacity of these organizations in key areas, including identifying qualified candidates overseas, and supporting candidates and employers throughout the interview, hiring, and immigration processes. Funding will also support the work of a partner organization that helps EMPP newcomers with affordable microloans. The government said that as the inaugural chair of the Global Task Force on Refugee Labour Mobility, Canada is helping build momentum to expand complementary labour pathways, both in Canada and around the world.

Fraser said: “Resettlement provides refugees with the opportunity to live in safety and rebuild their lives, but it shouldn’t mean their career experience gets overlooked in the process. Through this groundbreaking program, our government is highlighting skilled refugees’ professional achievements by allowing them to continue their career in Canada, while giving employers access to a pool of global talent. Several employers, such as Glen Haven Manor, have pioneered and championed this program from its inception, and I look forward to others across the country following their lead.”

Quick Facts:

* According to the Global Trends Report 2021 from the United Nations Refugee Agency, Canada resettled more refugees than any other country in the world that year, with over 20,400 refugees finding a permanent, safe home.

* To complement Canada’s resettlement efforts, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) launched the EMPP as a small research project in 2018. Phase 1 proved that, with some targeted help, there are skilled refugees who can meet existing economic immigration program criteria and who potentially represent an untapped talent pool.

* Phase 2 is now underway. During this second phase of the pilot, IRCC is aiming to settle up to 500 refugees and their families. Lessons learned will help IRCC and its partner organizations further expand the EMPP to welcome even greater numbers of skilled refugees.

* This new phase of the EMPP makes it easier for refugees to apply for permanent residence.

EMPP facilitation measures include waiving some fees, making it easier to prove their work experience, and letting them use loans to fund travel costs, settlement needs, start-up costs and fees that cannot be waived. In most cases, IRCC processes applications within six months.

* As of October 2022, Canada has already

welcomed over 100 skilled refugees and their family members under the EMPP.

* Based on its success with the EMPP, Canada helped launch the Global Task Force on Refugee Labour Mobility in April 2022. As chair of the task force for two years, Canada is working closely with a wide range of global part-

ners and stakeholders, as well as refugees with lived experience and expertise, to lay the foundation for implementing these innovative solutions worldwide.

* The eight founding members of the task

force include Canada, Australia, the United Nations Refugee Agency, the International Organization for Migration, the International Chamber of Commerce, Fragomen, Talent Beyond Boundaries and RefugePoint.

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Photo: Twitter

CBSA seizes nearly 2,500 kilograms of opium in Vancouver – largest ever amount of opium

THE Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) on Friday announced the significant seizure of nearly 2,500 kilograms of opium in Vancouver – the largest opium seizure to date for the CBSA.

In September, the CBSA Intelligence Sections and the RCMP Federal Serious and Organized Crime (FSOC) unit initiated an investigation into a potential significant importation of controlled substances concealed inside marine containers.

On October 25, the CBSA’s Metro Vancouver Marine Operations conducted an examination of goods within

19 marine containers based on this investigation. Using a wide range of detection tools and technology, including X-ray technology, officers discovered irregularities in the shipping pallets as part of a deep concealment method.

Further physical examination confirmed approximately 2,486 kilograms of opium within 247 shipping pallets.

The drugs seized were turned over to the RCMP FSOC unit for further criminal investigation.

Nina Patel (see bottom photo) , Regional Director Gen-

eral, Pacific Region, CBSA, said: “Our border services officers, intelligence officers and analysts work hard to ensure illicit and dangerous drugs stay out of our communities. This record seizure of opium is an example of their outstanding dedication to protect our communities.”

Will Ng (see bottom photo), RCMP Assistant Commissioner, said: “Committed to protecting Canadians from the most serious criminal threats, BC RCMP Federal Policing works closely with our domestic and international partners in combating organized crime. Being jointly responsible for protecting Canada’s border, today’s announcement is a clear demonstration of our dedication to keeping illicit drugs from entering our communities, through our enduring partnership, and ongoing collaboration with the CBSA, at home, and abroad.”

If you can open your home and your heart to a youth in need, we want to hear from you.

Join us and become part of a community that, just like you, wants to make a difference. For more information call Laura at: (236) 333-2682 or email careathome@plea.bc.ca

We’re looking for families with time for one more...

Opium within shipping pallets.

Photo: CBSA

Photos by SukhwAnt Dhillon / AM 600 Sher-E-Punjab Radio

ZINDAGI FOREVER’S ‘ANAND MANAAO’ CHRISTMAS EVENT

Sheer joy filled the ‘Anand Manaao’ Christmas event at Zindagi Forever Church in Surrey, B.C. on Sunday, December 11. Each and every worshipper was touched by the amazing presence of Jesus Christ and the Word of God. We are looking forward to worship the Lord every Sunday at 10:30 a.m. at ZFC Satsang at the same venue: 12918 112 Avenue, Surrey. We thank all of you for your prayers and support. For more information, please call us at (604) 724-0909

SANTA’S helpers from communities across the Lower Mainland merrily made their way to the grand toy count in Richmond last Saturday for the 16th Annual Victor Ghirra Toy Drive. With families in the province still challenged by COVID-19 and increasing inflation, there was an even greater need for toys over the holidays. Over 100 people attended the grand toy count event to drop off toys and donations.

This year, the indoor event welcomed attendees with a festive holiday theme. Volunteers greeted guests as they dropped off toys, with many staying to enjoy coffee and treats and posing for photos in the Winter Wonderland booth.

The toy drive is donating toys to a record 18 good causes this year. The hope is to bring some joy to children and families in need this holiday season. With the help of the Benevolent Brotherhood Society (BBS), the Ghirra family, The Co-operators Insurance agencies, Riverside Banquet Halls, Johnston Meier Insurance, Kids Play team and Vancity Credit Union, over 2,500 toys were collected. In memory of the man with a golden heart, the toy drive is devoted to making holidays brighter for hundreds of boys and girls. Michael Ghirra, Victor’s younger brother, said: “Nobody knew, Victor did this out of the kindness of his heart. He would be very happy to know what we are doing. The toy drive means a lot to me and my family to keep his giving spirit alive.”

Victor was involved in many charitable initiatives, but one charity that Victor was really touched by was the BC Children’s Hospital. A heartwarming story that depicts Victor’s character was when he bought toys worth thousands of dollars every Christmas and donated them anonymously to Children’s Hospital to needy children. When asked who he was and where the toys were from, Victor would simply reply, “It doesn’t matter who I am or where I am from,

these toys are for the kids and that’s all you need to know.”

It was later found that Victor had made trips to the hospital for over a dozen years. Victor was just being Victor, he didn’t tell anyone what he was up to.

Victor left a lasting impression on his colleagues, many of who still remember his charitable nature. Moya Matick, Agency Office Manager with The Co-operators said: “When you reflect on the man whose memory the toy drive honours and learn just how kind he had been in life, it is not too difficult to understand how that memory energizes and motivates us to continue his legacy. Each year, as word of the toy drive spreads, the success grows. This year Co-operators Insurance staff in the Lower Mainland contributed $900 in cash donations and over 50 new toys to help. It is heartwarming to know that our efforts contribute to preserving a spirit of giving and care to those kids who need it most.”

Once again, the kind-hearted Richmond Sunrise Rotary group supported the toy drive with a donation of $3,500 to purchase toys. During a recent meeting, members got together

and bought and donated toys they thought would be fun to play with.

Kal Mahal, Richmond Sunrise Rotary member, said: “Victor’s toy drive has become a Richmond tradition; it’s a wonderful way to give back to families who need it most during the holidays. Our members look forward to the toy drive and enjoy helping.”

Jerry Gamble of Johnston Meier Insurance worked with Victor and stepped up once again to help. “I’m proud to say that for the third year, we contributed $500 in toys to Victor’s toy drive. I so enjoyed working with Victor, he was such a kind person to be around, and he had a way with people that made you want to do better. I feel this toy drive is a great way to pay tribute to him.”

The 18 charities the Victor Ghirra toy drive was able to help this year include BC Children’s Hospital, Lower Mainland Christmas Bureau, Key Solutions, Richmond Christmas Fund, Options BC, Canuck Place, Nightshift Ministries – Care Centre, North Shore Family Services – Christmas Bureau, Second Stage Women’s Centre, RayCam Community Centre, Surrey Christmas Bureau, Kids Play, Richmond Food Bank, two local schools

with families in need, Recovery Kidz, Team Keian and for families on the downtown eastside. More than 47,650 toys have been collected and distributed over the past 16 years in memory of Victor.

Harvey Kooner of BBS, founder of the toy drive, said: “This year the need was greater than ever. We heard that families needed more help and we were happy to step up. This year there will be hundreds of children who will receive a toy during the holidays thanks to Victor’s legacy. This

toy drive continues to grow thanks to all our partners and generous community donors of the past 16 years.”

The toy drive welcomed a new donor this year: Cedar Chiropractic and Physiotherapy Clinic in Burnaby. They saw the opportunity to give back through the toy drive and wanted to support a wonderful cause. For more information on how you can make get involved and make a difference with next year’s toy drive, contact Harvey Kooner at 604-671-4180 or harveykooner1@gmail.com.

Toy Drive Committee.

Photos submitted

Uncle Vinny’s Toy Drive donates over 1,500 toys

THE Maan family of Surrey on Wednesday donated toys they collected around the Lower Mainland over the past number of weeks to The Salvation Army to be given out at their ‘Toy Shop’ for families who cannot afford gifts this Christmas.

Uncle Vinny’s Toy Drive started in memory of Vinny Maan, who passed away three years ago at the age of 35. He loved the Christmas season and spending time with his nieces and nephews. Knowing how much he liked to share gifts the family decided to start a toy drive in his name.

This toy drive allows the family to not only give back to the community by giving gifts to The Salvation Army Toy Shop, which gives

families the chance to pick out toys for their children based on their preferences who otherwise would not be able to afford presents, but also gives the family a chance to celebrate Vinny’s life in what has otherwise been a difficult time.

The Salvation Army in Vancouver serves over 1,000 families each year providing toys, grocery gift cards and food items for a Christmas meal.

It says that overall, it’s seeing a 30% increase in demand for itsr services across Canada, and it wouldn’t be able to meet it without the help of its generous donors across communities, including Uncle Vinny’s Toy Drive.

About 1,580 toys were collected this year and

more are expected to be delivered soon. Donations were collected in local businesses around the Lower Mainland in Surrey, Abbotsford, Vancouver, Langley, Richmond, Delta, New Westminster, Coquitlam, and Maple Ridge.

Toys were collected for children of all ages — from newborns to teenagers.

A toy drive is also simultaneously held in Ontario where their sister Sandy lives.

Those who would still like to make a donation directly to The Salvation Army this Christmas season can drop off cash, cheque or tap their credit card at its Christmas Kettles or visit salvationarmy.ca.

Vancouver Police recover dozens of stolen Christmas presents

VANCOUVER Police have returned thousands of dollars in stolen Christmas presents to their owners following an investigation targeting so-called porch pirates.

“Every year, the holiday season brings an increase in parcel thefts, as the convenience of online shopping creates easy opportunities for thieves,” said Constable Tania Visintin on Thursday. “The porch pirates follow vans for Amazon, UPS, and other delivery companies, then steal packages from peoples’ doorsteps after drivers drop them off.”

After a month’s-long investigation, VPD’s Property Crime Unit executed a search warrant on December 7 at a home in Burnaby, recovering Nike runners, golf clubs, scooters, tools and dozens of other would-be Christmas presents. Most of the parcels have now been returned to the rightful owners.

James Wood has been charged with two counts of theft and the investigation is ongoing.

Between September 1 to December 7, there

were 146 package thefts reported to Vancouver Police – almost half of them occurring in November alone. Most parcel thefts occur in residential areas, like South Vancouver, where items are often left on doorsteps. The VPD offers the following tips:

* consider an alternate shipping address where your package can be received, such as at work, or at the home of a friend or neighbour

* customize your delivery if possible – request a signature or hold for pick-up

* install a package lockbox – if you have deliveries showing up daily you may want to consider installing a lockbox

* request a signature on delivery – consider having your packages delivered only when someone is available to sign for them.

Property crime is often preventable and the VPD asks that citizens report suspicious behaviour to police immediately by calling 9-1-1. Anyone who is a victim of theft should follow up with the delivery company and make a report with their local police.

Uncle Vinny's Toy Drive

Photos submitted

Uncle Vinny

Winter weather contributes to spike in workplace injuries: WorkSafeBC

pery walkways, and poor road conditions. “Anticipating the risks is key — as working in cold-weather conditions can lead to serious injuries if you’re not prepared,” said Barry Nakahara, Senior Manager of Prevention

Field Services at WorkSafeBC, on Friday. “For outdoor workers, cold stress injuries are an issue. Workers who drive as part of their job could be faced with hazardous road conditions, and workers from a range of industries could be impacted by slippery or wet sidewalks, walkways, and thoroughfares.”

Key risks during winter weather include:

* Cold stress: Between 2017 and 2021, close to 100 claims were accepted by WorkSafeBC for injuries related to cold stress—with 80 per cent of those occurring during the winter months (November–March).

* Slips, trips and falls: Wet, snowy, and icy conditions can lead to slips, trips, and falls for workers in any sector. WorkSafeBC sees an approximate 11 per cent increase in injuries caused by slips, trips and falls between November and March — many of them resulting in serious injuries, including fractures, sprains, and dislocations.

* Motor vehicle incidents: Winter weather and driving conditions can vary greatly across B.C., ranging from blizzard conditions and icy roads to heavy rain and wet roads. As a result, workers are 18 per cent more likely to be injured in a motor vehicle incident during the winter.

Employers are responsible for managing risks in the workplace and taking reasonable steps to prevent injuries. Changing workplace conditions — including changes in weather — mean that risk assessments must be revisited on a regular basis, says WorkSafeBC.

“Managing risk in your workplace involves thinking about what might cause harm to your workers and ensuring measures are in place to keep them safe,” said Nakahara. WorkSafeBC stresses that effective health and safety programs during winter weather involve everyone, including front-line workers, members of the Joint Health and Safety Committee, managers, and supervisors.

“Your frontline workers should be actively engaged in risk assessments and the implementation of controls to keep everyone safe,” said Nakahara.

For resources on Cold Stress; Winter Driving; Shift into Winter; and Slips, Trips, and Falls, visit our website voiceonline.com

IHIT takes conduct of missing person investigation in Surrey

SURREY RCMP announced on Thursday that the investigation into the disappearance of a 24-year-old man has been turned over to the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT).

On December 3, the man was reported missing after last being seen on November 19. Criminality is believed be a factor, therefore, IHIT has been engaged and will be working in partnership with Surrey RCMP. Anyone with information regarding this investigation can call the IHIT information line 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.

City of Vancouver: Expect snow and freezing temperatures next week

THE Vancouver forecast is calling for several days of snow and freezing temperatures starting as early as this Sunday, December 18, and the City is encouraging residents to only undertake essential travel and to take safety precautions if they need to drive.

For people experiencing homelessness, the City will be opening additional indoor spaces.

The City says it prioritizes snow and ice treatment with a focus on:

* major roads and bus routes;

* bridges and bridge sidewalks;

* main streets adjacent to major hospitals;

* the four major pedestrian pathways

– Arbutus Greenway, Central Valley Greenway, False Creek Seawall, and Coal Harbour Seawall; and

* the 16 most-used bike routes.

Residential side streets are not included as part of the treatment plans, with the exception of priority hills and access routes to hospitals and schools.

There are many things residents can

do to help keep the city safe:

* Remove snow before it hardens to ice. Vancouver property owners and tenants are responsible for clearing snow and ice from the full width of sidewalks that surround their property by 10 a.m. following a snowfall as

a key measure to promote safety and accessibility of routes. This bylaw is in effect seven days a week and failure to do so can result in fines.

* On snow days, only take essential trips. This helps keep the roads clear for City crews who are out treating

snow and ice on the roads. If you need to be on the roads, travel with caution and give way to, or stay at a safe distance when following a plow, salt or brine truck.

* Equip your vehicle with the right tires for the conditions.

* Learn about preparing an emergency kit for your car and what to do if you get stuck.

* If your car is parked on a major route, move it to a side street to make room for plows.

* Check Translink for transit updates and the Provincial DriveBC website to plan travel on highways and commuter bridges exiting Vancouver. If you are unable to clear your walk and have no other alternatives, you are encouraged to sign up for the Snow Angel Program where volunteers are matched with people with mobility issues to help clear their sidewalks.

Support for people sleeping outside

To ensure that people sleeping out-

side can come into warm, safe spaces during Vancouver’s coldest months, the City and partners are once again activating a variety of spaces to encourage people to come in from the cold. Due to very cold weather and forecasted snow this week, the City of Vancouver anticipates opening a number of warming centres, starting Sunday, December 18 given temperatures dropping further.

Warming Centres are open when the temperature feels like -5°C or below or actual temperature of -4°C as a life-saving measure for people sleeping outside. While they are not set up with beds or mats, hot drinks and snacks are available. The most up-to-date information can be found on the City’s social media pages, and at https://mobile.twitter.com/ewrmetrovan

Extreme Weather Response Shelters and Warming Centres are in addition to Temporary Winter Shelters, which are open every night between November and March.

Senior manipulated into handing over several thousand dollars in bail money scam

ON December 13, an officer responded to a call for help from a senior in the Brow of the Hill neighbourhood of New Westminster. The senior said that she believed she had been the victim of an elaborate and professional scam.

The senior said that earlier in the evening someone claiming to be her grandson called her to say he had been arrested for having a large amount of cannabis in his vehicle and he needed a large sum of money for bail. Someone posing as a police officer then got on the line and assured the woman that if she put the cash in an envelope someone would meet her outside her residence to pick it up and her grandson would be freed from jail. The fraudster addressed this woman’s suspicions and assured her it was not a scam as her grandson was the one that called her. Someone met the senior outside her residence to collect the cash. This suspect is described as a woman in her early twenties

with light purple wavy shoulder length hair, a faded charcoal sweatshirt, patterned leggings, pink crocs, and standing 5’4” in height.

In speaking with the victim, the officer learned the fraudsters used techniques that encouraged the victim to share information that was later used to manipulate her. When the victim initially answered the phone, the fraudster exclaimed, “Hey grandma!” to which the victim responded with the name of her grandchild.

“It is despicable that criminals are using family bonds to manipulate seniors out of thousands of dollars,” said Media Relations Officer Sgt. Justine Thom. “We’re asking people to speak to friends and family about this incident, and to share with them the techniques the fraudsters used. Knowledge is power and we need more people to know about the scams.”

Officers are collecting evidence in an attempt to identify the suspect who met with the victim to collect the money. If the suspect

Gastown in Downtown Vancouver.

description sounds like someone you know, you are requested to reach out to the New Westminster Police Department at 604-5255411 and reference file 22-18829.

Charges laid in November 22 armed robbery at Port Coquitlam car dealership

Another suspect carjacked a nearby vehicle before fleeing to Surrey. Police responded to a location in Surrey where the suspect was arrested.

CHARGES have been laid against two 22-year-old men in connection to the armed robbery that occurred at the Journey Chrysler car dealership located at 1881 Lougheed Highway in Port Coquitlam on November 22.

Police responded to the area shortly after 3:40 p.m. on November 22 for a report of a robbery involving firearms and four suspects. The suspects were observed stealing a vehicle from the dealership.

The suspects fled in the stolen vehicle before there was an exchange of gunfire with responding officers. Neither the suspects or responding officers were shot.

The stolen vehicle crashed on Highway 1 near the King Edward overpass where the suspects fled on foot. One suspect was located on scene where he was arrested by responding officers.

Kwabena Bosiako of Port Coquitlam and Omar Demetris of New Westminster have both charged with one count of robbery. Both men remain in custody.

Coquitlam RCMP are still actively working on gathering evidence against all suspects involved in the armed robbery and shots fired at Coquitlam RCMP members.

“Our Coquitlam Major Crime Unit continues to search for additional evidence to determine the complete circumstances of the robbery and shots fired on November 22, 2022,” said Cpl. Alexa Hodgins. “We are asking the individuals involved in this incident to turn themselves in immediately, as our officers continue to follow up on all investigational avenues.”

Anyone with information regarding this incident or the outstanding suspect are asked to contact the Coquitlam RCMP at 604-9451550, and quote file number 2022-30931.

Keeping car insurance affordable

BY AMAN SINGH MLA for Richmond-Queensborough

I know that many people are worried about the rising costs of everyday expenses.

Especially as we enter the holiday season, people should be focused on spending time with loved ones, and not worrying about paying their bills. That is why our New Democrat government has all hands on deck when it comes to making life more affordable for British Columbians. This week, we announced that ICBC will be applying for no overall increase to Basic Insurance rates for the next two years. This would mean that Basic Insurance rates will be frozen and will not have increased in B.C. for five years.

This step will give B.C. drivers more stability during these uncertain economic times, so that people don’t have to make sacrifices to pay for their car insurance. People shouldn’t have to reduce their grocery budget or take their kids out of sports to be able to afford to drive their car.

Since we made major changes to ICBC last year, insurance rates in British Columbia have gone from some of the most expensive in Canada to being the most affordable. Additionally, Enhanced Care is providing people who are injured with significantly better care, recovery and income replacement benefits compared to the previous insurance model. We’ve put out the ICBC dumpster fire that raged for years. When Kevin Falcon was Finance Minister, he took a half billion dollars from ICBC to fund tax breaks for the wealthiest in the province, and made drivers pay for it through higher premiums.

Now as BC Liberal leader, he opposes Premier Eby’s plan to give British Columbians a break when they need it most. If he were in power, Kevin Falcon would make B.C. more expensive for people, just like he did before.

Our government’s introduction of generational reforms to ICBC is paying off with affordable, stable rates and a path for financial stability of the corporation.

Bait packages aim to deter thefts of parcels in New Westminster

THE New Westminster Police Department is working in partnership with community members to reduce parcel theft with the help of bait packages.

The Street Crime Unit, the Crime Reduction Unit and frontline patrol officers will deploy numerous packages on doorsteps and in mailboxes across the city. The bait packages will be placed at a prearranged residence or mailbox with the homeowner’s consent. The packages contain technology that will help police identify and track down anyone who attempts to steal the package.

“Families in New Westminster don’t need their holidays ruined by having packages stolen,” said Media Relations Officer Sgt. Justine Thom. “We’re hoping these bait packages will make thieves think twice before grabbing something off a porch especially during this busy holiday season.”

While the bait packages aim to deter parcel theft, police are encouraging the public to reduce the opportunity for thieves to steal packages. They suggest residents coordinate with neighbours to look out for deliveries.

“We’re asking people to have items delivered to locations where someone will be available to receive them, such as an office rather than home,” said Sgt. Justine Thom. “We also encourage people to check their mailboxes regularly and consider shipping insurance for costly items.”

The New Westminster Police Department said it plans to use the high-tech crimefighting tool year-round.

Alongside our ICBC rate application, we are taking more steps to help people with the cost of living this winter, including providing a $100 bill credit to all BC Hydro residential customers and $500 in credit to commercial customers.

Eligible individuals and families will also automatically receive the new BC Afford-

ability Credit in early January. This credit is based on income and family size, up to a maximum amount of $410 for a family. The winter months can be challenging for

many, and I want people to know that our provincial government is doing what we can to help offset rising costs and make things a little easier.

Housing on the way to support people living on Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside

NEARLY 100 people experiencing homelessness on Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside will soon have access to more housing.

The Province, through BC Housing, in partnership with the City of Vancouver, is starting construction on two temporary bridge-to-housing projects with 90 units.

“We need to do more to help people off the street, into dignified shelters and

then into stable housing where they can access health supports and rebuild their lives,” said Premier David Eby on Wednesday.

“These temporary modular homes will serve as bridgeto-health supports and more permanent housing. This is just one part of our work to address homelessness and unsafe encampments.”

The Province said these additional transitional, fixed-

OBITUARY

term homes with 24/7 supports are one more step to help address the housing need in Vancouver and provide more options for people experiencing homelessness.

Located at 1500 Main Street and 2132 Ash Street, both buildings are scheduled to open in March 2023 and will be in place for at least three years.

These new homes will be offered to people currently living in shelters, creating more shelter spaces for people residing in unsafe encampments, including along Hastings Street and in Crab Park. Both projects are undergoing an accelerated development permitting approval process through the City of Vancouver.

“These supported homes will help people move from

shelters to transitional housing and get the supports they need to stabilize their lives and make long-term housing a reality,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing. “Thank you to BC Housing for its work and I look forward to continuing to work with all our partners, so we can help more people find a safe and secure place to call home.”

Since July, more than 150 newly renovated indoor single-room-occupancy (SRO) spaces with support services have opened in Vancouver. These are in addition to 584 temporary shelter spaces and 88 emergency weather-response shelter spaces opened in Vancouver as of Nov. 30. 2022, to increase access to indoor space during the winter months.

EVENTS

South Asian Adults and Seniors Programs

“We are in the midst of one of the greatest crises facing our city’s history,” said Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim.

“Today’s announcement from the Province makes meaningful progress toward achieving our shared goal of securing quality housing for our city’s most vulnerable residents. We applaud the provincial government’s

continued response to the call for greater senior-level involvement in the crisis on the Downtown Eastside.”

Bridge-to-housing projects provide spaces for those who are experiencing or are at risk of homelessness as a transitional step, while other permanent housing projects are in development.

“People can’t break the cycle of homelessness while they’re moving between the street and shelters, which is why this transitional housing will help more people secure more permanent housing,” said Melanie Mark, MLA for VancouverMount Pleasant. “In addition to finding people facing homelessness a stable and welcoming home, we’re connecting them to the health, social and community supports they need to help get their lives back on track.”

MINNI (HARMOHINDER) GREWAL

We are very saddened to inform you about the passing away of our beloved Minni (Harmohinder) Grewal of Maple Ridge, son of Prof. Gurbachan Singh Grewal of Faridkot (Punjab) on December 13, 2022.

The funeral service will take place at Fraser River Funeral Home in Abbotsford on Tuesday, December 20 from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m., followed by Antim Ardas at Mission Gurdwara Sahib at 32086 Rai Avenue, Mission.

For information:

Address: 20970 Avenue, Maple Ridge Home: 604-466-2914 Cell: 778-680-8392

* Yoga classes in person at Shanti Niketan Hall conducted by yoga instructor Ashwini Bansal on every Monday and every Thursday from 10 to 11:15 a.m. on both days. Yoga expert Mahendra Kumar Juneja will also help participants. This is only for participants who have been double vaccinated for COVID-19. They should bring facemasks and a yoga mat and maintain social distancing. Pure vegetarian lunch is served in the dining hall of the Temple to all seniors every Thursday after the yoga class.

* Vedic Senior’s Parivar Centre of Vedic Hindu Cultural Society of BC invites South Asian adults and seniors to attend highlights of Cruise and Tour of Eastern Mediterranean by 72 members in November by Surendra Handa, Organizer, at Shanti Niketan Hall of Lakshmi Narayan Temple,

8321 140 Street, Surrey, on Sunday, December 18 from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Members will relate their experiences.

* Last chance to register by paying $30 per person to attend Christmas get-together and group birthday on Monday, December 26 at Ultimate Banquet Hall, #2008072 – 120 Street, Surrey, from 6 to 9:30 p.m. We have to pay $45 per person to the banquet hall and our sponsors will cover the balance and the drinks. For group birthday celebration, there will be a cakecutting ceremony and everybody will be served a piece of cake along with the desserts. The members whose birthday falls between October 2 and December 31 will contribute $5 extra to cover the cost of the cake. Musicians will provide entertainment. Contact Surendra Handa, Coordinator, at 604-507-9945 or email at surendra_ handa@hotmail.com for registration and further details.

The new housing will help address unsafe encampments on the Downtown Eastside and support community-based solutions, so that people have a safe and suitable place to live.

The Province is working with provincial government ministries, BC Housing, the City of Vancouver, and Indigenous and community partners on plans to address the immediate health, safety and housing needs and concerns along Hastings Street and in Crab Park by delivering longer-term housing and better co-ordinating services to deliver improved outcomes for people living on Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside.

David Eby Photo: Eby website

Evidence shows Eby has been covering up significant problems at BC Housing: BC Liberals

BC Liberals said on Wednesday that documents obtained through a Freedom of Information request reveal new details about the chaos and dysfunction at BC Housing under David Eby, based on exit interview reports of 102 staff who left the organization between March 2020 and April 2022.

“These exit interviews clearly show a massive spike in dysfunction and problems at BC Housing while Eby was housing minister,” said Karin Kirkpatrick, BC Liberal Critic for Housing. “Unfortunately, BC Housing has redacted more than three-quarters of the documents, preventing the public from knowing the true extent of the chaos and mismanagement Eby allowed to spread through this $2-billion organization.”

The latest report ending in April 2022 found a “dramatic increase in staff departures over previous years” and that “the last six months [October 2021 through March 2022], was

particularly notable for its record number of 40 departures.” Of the 102 people who left BC Housing under Eby’s watch, 17 were

senior executives. Problems contributing to staff departures included “declining morale and understaffing” as well as “excessive workload issues.” Even for staff who left to retire, “almost all of those indicated that the workplace issues described in this report had an impact on their decision to leave when they did, in many cases earlier than they had originally planned.”

“This is just the latest evidence showing that David Eby has been covering up significant problems at BC Housing,” said Kirkpatrick. “From the buried reports showing financial mismanagement at Atira Women’s Housing Society and BC Housing, to these exit interviews detailing the departure of 102 staff in the last two years, we are seeing a clear picture of an organization in chaos. It now seems obvious Eby tried to hide the truth about what was going on at this taxpayer-funded organization because he was

instead focused on seizing power through his tainted NDP leadership race. The new housing minister Ravi Kahlon has a lot to answer for, and a lot of work to do to clean up the mess his boss has left behind at BC Housing.”

The documents also highlight “significant upheaval” and note that “one of the departments that appears to be most impacted by departing staff is [redacted], many citing issues with management changes, lack of overall management direction, combined with a lack of resources for front-line work…”

Despite Eby’s supposed commitment to transparency and accountability, additional damning revelations have been censored in the documents, with more than 75 per cent of the pages containing quotes and summaries of employee feedback redacted, the BC Liberals pointed out.

NDP backs down on poorly-timed MLA pay hike: BC Liberals

THE BC Liberals said on Tuesday that after significant public pressure in support of their call to freeze MLA salaries for the forthcoming year, the NDP came to their senses and agreed to cancel a proposed MLA pay increase of six to 10 per cent in 2023/24.

This was a victory for the thousands of hard-working British Columbians struggling to make ends meet for themselves and their families, they added.

“The NDP may have ignored my private member’s bill on this issue during the fall session, but they couldn’t ignore the

voices of British Columbians who wrote in to share their opposition to the idea of politicians getting a pay raise during these difficult economic circumstances,” said Opposition House Leader Todd Stone.

“I’m pleased the NDP finally changed

course and agreed to forego this planned pay hike. As we pointed out many months ago, it’s the right thing to do.”

Stone said that while the government is at it, it should also cancel the retroactive pay increases of $20,000 per cabinet minister it gave them.

Another Liberal minister found guilty of breaking ethics laws and must resign: Conservatives

MICHAEL Barrett, Conservative Critic for Ethics and Accountable Government, and Jacques Gourde, Associate Critic for Ethics and Accountable Government, on Tuesday called for the resignation of federal minister Mary Ng who was found guilty of breaking ethics laws.

They said in a statement: “In the latest Liberal scandal of unethical and corrupt behaviour, [Prime Minister] Justin Trudeau’s Minister of International Trade Mary Ng has been found guilty of two violations of ethics laws for giving nearly $23,000 of taxpayer money to her friend and Liberal spin doctor Amanda Alvaro.

“This flagrant abuse of public office cannot not be tolerated. Minister Ng must resign.” They added: “This is a pattern of ethics

violations and scandals from this Liberal government that goes all the way up to the Prime Minister himself.

“The Prime Minister was found guilty of ethics violations twice. First, he accepted a free trip to the Aga Khan’s island. Next, he politically interfered to help his friends facing criminal charges in the SNC Lavalin scandal and then fired his Attorney General when she refused to take part.

“But it doesn’t stop there. Trudeau’s Finance Minister Bill Morneau was found guilty after the Liberals awarded a massive contract to WE Charity who were at the same time paying their family members to appear at events.

“Dominic Leblanc was found guilty for giving fishing contracts to family members when he was fisheries minister. A former Liberal MP was given $237 million to make medical equipment despite having no experience doing it. This is a pattern of corruption and scandal of Liberals helping Liberals line their pockets with taxpayer dollars.”

Barrett and Gourde said: “While people in this country are struggling to afford to live and provide for their family because of the crushing costs of Justinflation and higher taxes, the Liberals are helping their friends get rich on the backs of hardworking Canadians.

“Minister Ng can no longer represent Canada’s economic future on the world stage. She must do the right thing and resign.”

Karin Kirkpatrick

Mary Ng

Photo: Twitter

Kolkata (IANS): An impressive, star-studded gathering at the inauguration of the 28th Kolkata International Film Festival here on Thursday evening was taken by a bit of surprise, when Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan, usually known for dodging political issues, suddenly referred to issues like "civil liberties" and "freedom of expression".

However, before making those references, which the Big B restricted to a single sentence, he carefully prepared the ground for making them. He started the speech referring to the incidents of creating communal divides and imposing censorship of thethen British rulers during the pre-independence era. At a point of time, when the audience was wondering where the megastar was leading to, he suddenly raised the issue of how questions are still raised on civil liberties and freedom of expression.

"Even now, I am sure my colleagues on stage would agree that questions are being raised on civil liberties and freedom of expression," he said.

Amitabh's statement came as

a second consecutive shocker for the audience present at the event, as megastar Shah Rukh Khan, who spoke immediately before the Big B referred to how social media is often driven by a narrowness of views that enclose collective narrative and makes it more divisive and destructive.

"This sense of negativity often increases the social media consumption and such pursuits often enclose collective narrative and makes it more divisive and destructive," SRK said.

Political observers feel that the references by Amitabh Bachchan

about "questions being still raised on civil liberties and freedom of expression" was actually an indirect and clandestine endorsement of the views of Bollywood's Badshah.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who was the last speaker on the occasion, during her turn, indirectly endorsed the views of both Bollywood actors claiming that West Bengal always fights with courage to protect unity in diversity and humanity, with the people of the state never bowing down in front of anyone.

He made the announcement on Thursday at a brief news conference after presiding over a briefing on counter-terrorism at the Council. India is completing this month its eighth stint as an elected member of the Council.

The elected Council seats are allocated by region and India will first have to get the support of the 55 countries of the Asia-Pacific Region. It was unopposed in the region in the election held in 2020 for the two-year term that started the next year.

Japan will assume next year the Asian seat vacated by India.

Even as it will be lobbying for its candidacy for the seat for which elections will be held in 2027, New Delhi will simultaneously work for Council reforms so that it gets a permanent seat.

United Nations (IANS): India will seek election to the Security Council for a two-year term that starts in 2028, according to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar.

Nearly 130,000 pilgrims used Kartarpur Sahib Corridor to visit Gurdwara Darbar Sahib

New Delhi (IANS): Since its inauguration on November 9, 2019, the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor has been used by around 130,000 pilgrims to visit Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur in Pakistan, the Parliament was told on Thursday.

An agreement between India and Pakistan for the facilitation of pilgrims to visit Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur, Pakistan, was signed on October 24, 2019, in order to fulfil

the long-standing demand of Indian citizens and Overseas Citizens of India, to have easy and smooth access to the holy Gurdwara and to operationalise the corridor in time for the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, Minister of State for External Affairs V. Muraleedharan told the Rajya Sabha in a written reply.

“The agreement, inter alia, provides for visafree travel of Indian pilgrims as well as Over-

seas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders, from India to the holy Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur in Pakistan, on a daily basis,” he said. As a precautionary measure to contain and control the spread of COVID-19 pandemic, the Kartarpur Corridor was temporarily suspended from March 16, 2020. With the improvement in the COVID-19 situation, the corridor was reopened to pilgrims on November 17, 2021.

“With regard to the visit of Indian pilgrims to Gurdwara Nankana Sahib, there exists a Bilateral Protocol signed between India and Pakistan in 1974, under which visits to various religious shrines in Pakistan, including Gurdwara Nankana Sahib, are regularly facilitated. This year, the Government of India facilitated the visit of around 4,790 Indian pilgrims to Gurdwara Nankana Sahib in Pakistan,” he added.

‘Besharam Rang’ row: Take back song or face boycott, says Sri Rama Sena in K’taka

Bengaluru (IANS): The Sri Rama Sena in Karnataka on Thursday urged the production house of Shah Rukh Khan-Deepika Padukone starrer ‘Pathan’ to roll back the “Besharam Rang” song or face a boycott. Pramod Muthalik, founder of the Sri Rama Sena, stated on Thursday that these are not like old times. Change and awareness have come. The boycott calls on Bollywood movies have worked. If the Besharam song is not withdrawn, a boycott ‘Pathan’ campaign will be launched, he warned. He charged that the ‘Besharam Rang’ song is indecent and vulgar. The song says the saffron colour is shameless. Bollywood is in the hands of Dawood Ibrahim, communists and atheists. They have been targeting

New Delhi (IANS): With the landing of the 36th and the final fighter jet, the Indian Air Force (IAF) on Thursday received the delivery of all the aircraft for which it had entered into a Rs 58,000-crore [1 crore = 10 million] deal with France’s Dassault Aviation in 2016.

“The pack is complete. The last of the 36 IAF Rafales landed in India after a quick enroute sip from a UAE Air Force tanker,” the IAF said in an official statement.

A squadron of Rafale will monitor the western border and northern border with Pakistan, while another squadron will monitor the eastern border area of India. Due to the completion of the Rafel deal, the strength of the Indian Air

Hindus and attacking their belief system, Muthalik stated.

Force has increased especially at a time when tension and a clash has erupted at the international borders with China.

According to sources, the 36th Rafael fighter jet will soon become a part of the Air Force’s Squadron. Among the India-specific enhancements, the jets included helmet-mounted sight, radar warning receivers, flight data recorders with enough storage for 10 hours, infra-red search and track systems, and towed decoys to lure incoming missiles away and missile approach warning system.

Recently, the Air Force had successfully tested long-range Meteor missile and Scalp air-to-ground missile from the Rafale. A HAM-

He said that the Hindi movie PK showed Hindu Gods in a distasteful manner. “Let them show burqa clad people dancing or a dance in the church. These kind of films set mindsets for living together, love jihad, rape and kidnaps. The censor board must take it seriously,” he said.

Meanwhile, veteran south Indian actor Prakash Raj has reacted angrily to the controversy surrounding Hindi film industry superstar Shah Rukh Khan and popular actress Deepika Padukone’s new release ‘Pathan’s ‘Besharam Rang’ song. “#Besharam Bigots.. So it’s okay when Saffron clad men garland rapists…give hate speech, broker MLAs, a Saffron clad swamiji rapes Minors, But not a DRESS in

the film?? #justasking,” Prakash Raj’s tweet reads.

Pramod Muthalik has questioned Prakash Raj on his remarks. “It is Hindus who are showing patience and tolerance though they have been attacked,” he said.

The Besharam song has become an instant hit after its release, crossingd 2 million views in two hours and has now crossed 42 million views.

The Hindutva activists across the country have raised objections to the song and stated that the attire of actors encourages love jihad. They had objected to the dance sequence where Shah Rukh Khan is wearing a green colour shirt and Deepika is flaunting a saffron outfit.

36 Rafale jets land in India

day when the IAF was conducting an exercise near the India-China border. This exercise of the Indian Air Force will continue up to December 16 in the Eastern Sector of the country. Air bases in Assam’s Tezpur, Chabua, Jorhat and West Bengal’s Hasimara are likely to be activated in the exercise.

MER missile has also been added to the Rafaels’ arsenal. This missile is capable of accurate attack in short range, the official added. The IAF shared the update along with the picture of the world’s

As per the official, “The Eastern Air Command of Indian Air Force shall be conducting a pre-planned routine exercise in its AOR on December 15-16. This exercise was planned well in advance to the recent developments in Tawang, and is not associated with these events. The exercise shall be conducted towards training of the IAF crew”.

most advanced fighter jet. India had received the first batch of five Rafale jets at the Air Force Station Ambala in July 2020. These jets were a part of the 17 Squadron. The last Rafael landed in India on a

United Nations (IANS): India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar hit out on Thursday at double standards on terrorism practised by China and Pakistan and said that the international community should collectively act against those countries trying to gain politically from it.

“We cannot let another ‘9/11 of New York’ or ‘26/11 of Mumbai’ happen again,” he declared at the Security Council briefing on counter-terrorism.

Jaishankar quoted Prime Minister Narendra Modi: “We consider that even a single attack is one too many and even a single life lost is one too many. So, we will not rest till terrorism is uprooted.”

The “challenge is how do we deal with double standards, both inside and outside this Council”, he said without mentioning China or Pakistan by name.

“The contemporary epicentre of terrorism

New Delhi (IANS): Shiromani Akali Dal MP from Punjab’s Bathinda, Harsimrat Kaur Badal, on Thursday made a plea to the Central government, asking it to name the national tribute to the sacrifice of the great Sahibzadas of Guru Gobind Singh “in a manner that it symbolises Panthic values and is in sync with the sentiments and heritage of Khalsa Panth”.

She requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi to heed the reservations of Sikhs’ supreme body Akal Takht Sahib and accept the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC)’s recommendation to name it as “Shabibzade Shahadat Diwas” to resonate with Sikh ethos.

Thanking the PM for personally ensuring that “a historic omission” is undone by paying a national tribute to the Chhote Sahibzadas’ sacrifice against fanaticism, religious intolerance and persecution, including forcible conversions, Harsimrat said she and her party gratefully acknowledge the sensitivity shown by the Prime Minister in this regard. She, however, said the nomenclature needs

remains very much alive and active, whatever gloss may be applied to minimise unpleasant realities and “we cannot forget that old habits and established networks are still alive, especially in South Asia”, he said.

There were double standards in taking action against terrorists, he said, in a reference to China blocking sanctions against Pakistan-based terrorists.

Jaishankar said that the “same criteria are not applied to sanctioning and prosecuting terrorists. It would seem sometimes that the ownership of terrorism is more important than its perpetration or its consequences”.

“For too long, some have persisted with the approach that terrorism is just another instrument or stratagem. Those invested in terrorism have used such cynicism to carry on.”

He warned: “It is not just plain wrong but could be downright dangerous, even for the

very people whose toleration extends this far.”

“No individual state should endeavour to seek political gain from terrorism and none of us collectively should ever put up with such calculations,” he said.

“When it comes to tackling terrorism, we must overcome our political differences and manifest a zero-tolerance approach,” he said.

At the start of the session, Jaishankar called for a moment of silence in memory of the victims of terrorism, the Irish peacekeeper killed in Lebanon on Wednesday in Lebanon and all peacekeepers killed in UN operations.

Before Jaishankar spoke, Anjali Vijay Kulthe, a nurse from Cama and Albless Hospital in Mumbai, told the Council about her face-toface encounter with Pakistan-based terrorists on 26/11 and how she worked to save

mothers, mothers-to-be, and newborns at the medical centre.

Jaishankar called on the Council “to re-invigorate its counter-terrorism agenda. And that is overdue because the threat of terrorism has actually become even more serious”. He called for vigilance against new and emerging technologies being adopted by terrorists.

“This is likely to be the next frontier of our battle,” he said.

Terrorists “have diversified their funding portfolio and expanded their recruitment toolkit” by exploiting “the anonymity afforded by new and emerging technologies”, he said.

“Terrorist groups have also been taking advantage of openness of democratic societies, by spreading false narratives, inciting hatred, and radicalising ideologies,” he added.

ture, “Veer Bal Diwas”, because they were not normal children.

“As I know that the government’s intention in this regard is positive and pious, it

to reflect this sensitivity.

Speaking in the Lok Sabha, she said while the Sikh ‘quom’ gratefully acknowledges the Prime Minister’s “noble gesture”, it has legitimate reservations about its nomencla-

shouldn’t be difficult for it to revisit the nomenclature issue and resolve it to the satisfaction of the community directly in perspective,” added the former Union minister.

BC RCMP federal policing cracks down on money laundering and illicit drug distribution

THE BC RCMP Federal Serious and Organized Crime (FSOC) Financial Integrity (FI) unit executed search warrants on two locations in the cities of Surrey and White Rock and arrested three suspects for money laundering and drug offences.

In early 2019, the BC RCMP FSOC FI launched an investigation into an online cannabis business that was allegedly distributing drugs through mail. During the investigation, approximately $14 million in alleged proceeds of crime was also found laundered through various companies and their bank accounts. Through a major case investigation, the FSOC FI was able to follow the money through bank accounts to the acquisition of real estate, high end vehicles and luxury goods.

On November 30, with the assistance of the BC RCMP Clandestine Laboratory Enforcement and Response (CLEAR) team, Forensic Identification Services (FIS), Digital Forensics

Services (DFS), Emergency Response Team (ERT), and members of the Surrey RCMP detachment, FSOC FI executed two search warrants on associated locations in the cities of Surrey and White Rock. The main commercial drug site was concealed in a rental

home hidden in a residential community several blocks from an elementary school. The searches uncovered a large, commercial-scale illegal cannabis operation, including a large amount of drugs and several firearms. Federal investigators seized suspected proceeds of crime, including over $200,000 cash, gold bars, cryptocurrency, luxury vehicles such as a McLaren supercar and custom hot rod, motorcycles, and other goods.

Offence-related property, such as cannabis related items, packaging, promotional material, business documentation, shipping material, and computers were also seized from the locations.

“The successful suppression of this criminal organization’s activities demonstrates the BC RCMP Financial Integrity program’s effectiveness in combatting money laundering offences, that can be extremely challenging to investigate due to their high degree of complexity,” said Inspector David Gray, acting Of-

ficer in Charge of the BC RCMP FSOC FI. The BC RCMP Federal Policing Financial Integrity program’s mandate in relation to money laundering is to detect, deter and investigate serious Criminal Code money laundering and proceeds of crime offences, and combat the highest threats affecting the Canadian economy and its citizens through prevention, detection and deterrence.

The RCMP notes that money laundering is a serious crime that affects the safety and security of Canadians, as well as the international community. It is a process used to disguise the source of money, or assets that come from illegal means, and it is often linked to organized crime, and in certain cases also finance terrorism. You can do your part in protecting Canadians, and the integrity of our financial sector by reporting such crimes to your local police agency, or anonymously through the BC Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-222-8477.

Vancouver police seize millions in drugs, weapons from organized crime ring

VANCOUVER Police have seized approximately $3 million in deadly drugs, guns, and cash following a year-long investigation into a sophisticated organized crime ring fuelling the illicit drug market in the Downtown Eastside and beyond.

“We are committed to rooting out organized and predatory criminals who manufacture and produce the harmful street drugs that kill vulnerable people in our communities,” said Inspector Phil Heard, commanding officer of VPD’s Organized Crime Section.

“This seizure has disrupted business for a crim-

inal organization and made life a bit safer for people struggling with illicit substance use.”

VPD launched Project Torque in November 2021 to target a drug-trafficking operation that was believed to be manufacturing and distributing fentanyl pills disguised as generic Percocet. While some of the drugs were sold in places like the Downtown Eastside, others were sent out of province and exchanged for cash.

Percocet is an opioid that is often prescribed to people who live with moderate to severe pain. While safe when consumed at prescribed dosages, the pills are often trafficked at street-level

to opioid addicts. When illegally produced and laced with fentanyl by organized drug traffickers, the pills become highly addictive and often fatal, creating a significant public safety risk.

In October, VPD investigators executed multiple search warrants, seizing 72 kilograms of the fake, fentanyl-laced pills, along with 16.5 kilograms of cocaine, 88 kilograms of cutting agents, methamphetamine, MDMA, and benzodiazepine. If sold on the street, the drugs would have netted $3 million to fuel organized crime and violence in Metro Vancouver.

VPD investigators also seized three handguns,

Michael D’Lerma, 34, identified as Chilliwack homicide victim

THE Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) on Wednesday identified Tuesday’s homicide victim in Chilliwack as Michael D’Lerma, 34, of Chilliwack in hopes of advancing the investigation.

On December 13 at around 6 p.m., the Upper Fraser Valley Regional Detachment RCMP (UFVRD) responded to a shooting in the 9700-block of Windsor Street,

Chilliwack. Police located a 34year old man, suffering from gunshot wounds.

The victim was transported to local hospital by first responders where, sadly, he succumbed to his injuries.

IHIT has taken conduct of the investigation and is working closely in partnership with the UFVRD Chilliwack RCMP, the BC Coroners Service and the RCMP Integrated

Forensic Identification Section (IFIS).

A short time later, UFVRD were notified of a vehicle fire in the 46700-block of Bailey Road, Chilliwack. IHIT is working with the Chilliwack RCMP and their forensic experts to determine if the two incidents are connected.

Initial evidence suggests this is a targeted homicide, though the motive is still under investigation,

IHIT said.

ammunition, body armour, and $123,000 in cash, resulting in three arrests.

“These are impressive results borne from the hard work and dedication of our speciallytrained gangs and drugs experts, who spent months gathering evidence against these organized criminals,” said Heard.

“This should serve as a reminder to other illicit drug producers – by the time you realize we’ve been watching you, you could already be in handcuffs.”

VPD anticipates multiple charges will be laid at the conclusion of the investigation.

IHIT is asking any witnesses who have yet to speak with police, anyone with dash-camera footage from the 46700-block of Bailey Road, between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. on December 13, or anyone with information regarding the homicide to contact the IHIT Information Line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc. gc.ca.

Cloverdale’s Winter Ice Palace returns December

THE City of Surrey on Monday announced the return of Winter Ice Palace at Cloverdale Arena. Back for its 23rd year, the event will feature magical lights, festive decorations, cheerful music and more from December 17 to January 2, 2023.

This year, the City is introducing a new more efficient registration process that will require patrons to register for a 90-minute session time and book rental equipment in advance. Online registration will open 72 hours before each session time; participants must register at least one hour in advance of their desired session time to secure their spot.

“Winter Ice Palace is a beloved holiday tradition that’s brought festive fun to Surrey residents of all ages for more than two decades. I’m thrilled that we’re able to bring it back this year and offer the community a chance to create memories with their loved ones again. Our new online registration system will provide guaranteed ice time and reduce congestion on the ice. Having the ability to pre-book equipment rentals online will really help alleviate stress, which is especially welcomed during the busy holiday season,” said Chris Gain, Arenas Manager, Parks Recreation and Culture at City of Surrey.

Registration will be required for every member of a party at a cost of $4.75 per person. If you have an Annual Recreation Pass, Swipe Pass or Family Fun Pass, admission will be free, but registration is still required.

Various session times will be offered throughout the event. Patrons are encouraged to view the 2022-23 Winter Ice Palace schedule to plan their visit accordingly.

Registrants will have the chance to win great prizes through this year’s ‘Say Freeze!’ Photo Contest. A total of four Recreation Surrey-themed prize baskets will be awarded to patrons during the event. To enter, patrons are asked to share a photo of themselves (or their party) enjoying this year’s

IIO investigating police-involved incident in Surrey

THE Independent Investigations Office (IIO) of BC announced on Saturday that it is investigating a shooting following a police traffic stop at approximately 2:30 p.m. at 100 Avenue and 152 Street in Surrey.

The driver was taken to hospital with what was reported to be a self-inflicted injury. He is not expected to survive.

The IIO has begun an investigation to determine what role, if any, police actions or inactions played in the shooting.

The IIO asks anyone with relevant information about this incident to contact the witness line toll free at 1-855-446-8477 or via the contact form at iiobc.ca.

The Dodge Charger and Dodge Challenger, in current form, are coming to an end, and the Dodge brand is seizing the opportunity to celebrate in true, over-the-top Dodge style. The Dodge 2023 lineup will pay homage to the muscle car pair with seven special models, the return of a rainbow of heritage colours, an expansion of SRT Jailbreak models, and a commemorative “Last Call” underhood plaque for all 2023 Charger and Challenger vehicles.

Demon, Hellcat, Redeye, Scat Pack, Shaker, Jailbreak. Iconic Dodge Charger and Challenger models have ushered in a second golden age of the muscle car, continuously elevating the magic number for performance from the 707 horsepower of the origi-

nal Hellcat to the 840-horsepower Challenger SRT Demon. Since the modern-day Charger was launched in 2005, the Brampton Assembly Plant has built 3 million Dodge vehicles, representing a

billion horsepower.

Charger and Challenger are departing on top — with enthusiast demand that will only gain momentum as the brand teases the rollout of the 2023 vehicle lineup.

New 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Road Tripper

“We are celebrating the end of an era — and the start of a bright new electrified future — by staying true to our brand,” said Tim Kuniskis, Dodge Brand Chief Executive Officer – Stellantis. “At Dodge we never lift, and the brand will mark the last of our iconic Charger and Challenger nameplates in their current form in the same way that got us here, with a passion both for our products and our enthusiasts that drives us to create as much uniqueness in the muscle car community and marketplace as possible.”

Dodge will pay tribute to the long and legendary history of the Dodge Challenger and Dodge Charger by introducing seven heritage-influenced models for

features in its class, more than 115 standard and available safety and security features, standard Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, Stow ‘n Go seating and storage system, Apple CarPlay/ Android Auto and available Uconnect Theatre with Amazon Fire TV. Pacifica is also the most capable minivan with available all-wheel drive (AWD) for gas-powered models.

The Chrysler Pacifica Road Tripper features an exterior profile all its own, starting with new Luster Grey Road Tripper graphics, outlined in Brilliant Orange, on the front driver and passenger doors.

the 2023 model year. The models were teased and displayed under full vehicle covers at M1 Concourse in Pontiac, Michigan, during the first day of the three-day Dodge Speed Week event, which featured announcements and reveals of current Dodge products. Each model will share a connection to an iconic Dodge model from the past, reaching back to the dawn of the muscle-car era in the 1960s and 1970s. Graphics featured on each vehicle cover offer hints to the secret identities of the models displayed at M1 Concourse.

Ordering and pricing information for the 2023 Dodge Charger and Challenger will be announced closer to the on-sale date.

els offer best-in-class towing capabilities of up to 1,632 kilograms (3,600 pounds) with the included Trailer Tow Group, giving families the ability to take boats, gear and more along for the ride. Pacifica Road Tripper models also feature a roof rack compatible with a range of Mopar carriers, such as bicycle and cargo carriers. Inside, Mopar allweather floor mats help protect the interior from rain, mud, snow and more tracked in from the road.

er, as well as Chrysler Pacifica’s status as the best-in-class road-trip minivan, Chrysler is announcing the new 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Road Tripper, a special version of the

ultimate family travel vehicle.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Road Tripper adds unique content and features that build on Pacifica’s already formidable foundation as the ultimate road-trip vehicle. Chrysler Pacifica delivers the most standard safety

The 20-inch wheels (18-inch wheels on the Hybrid) are also Luster Grey, as are the centre caps, which carry a Brilliant Orange Chrysler wing badge logo. The semi-gloss Granite Crystal Chrysler wing badges on the front grille and rear liftgate are also highlighted by Brilliant Orange centre inserts. Semi-gloss Granite Crystal accents the front fascia and grille trim, as well as the door moldings, door handles and mirror caps.

Gas-powered Pacifica Road Tripper mod-

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Road Tripper is available on gas-powered Pacifica Touring L and Pacifica Touring L Hybrid models, in a choice of three exterior colours: Bright White, Brilliant Black and Ceramic Gray. The Road Tripper package is available on the Pacifica Touring L at a Canadian manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $3,195, the Touring L AWD at an MSRP of $2,795 and on the Pacifica Touring L Hybrid at an MSRP of $1,995.

Canadian ordering for the 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Road Tripper is scheduled to open in early 2023. Vehicles are scheduled to arrive in dealerships in spring 2023, just in time for the start of road trip season.

INTROducINg the new 2023 Nissan Z. with an unmatched 50-plus year heritage and global fan base, the new Z performance Coupe takes on a traditional rear-wheeldrive sports car design, with a long hood, lower rear stance and a silhouette that pays homage to the first-generation Z.

The 2023 Z’s 3.0-litre V6 twin turbo engine adds a significant bump in power output over the previous generation 370Z. The engine is rated at 400 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 350 lb-ft of torque starting from 1,600 to 5,600 rpm. With an increase of 68 horsepower and a 30 percent increase in torque, the engine has an estimated 15 percent improvement in 0 to 60 mph acceleration.

The 6-speed close-ratio manual transmission includes an EXEDY® high-performance clutch. As a

physical touchpoint between driver and Z, the shifter glides to the next gear, almost instinctively, with minimal effort.

In a first for a rear-wheel drive Nissan vehicle, Z Performance

TORONTO: For performance, style, and comfort, nothing beats a well-engineered sedan – and that’s the secret formula that has made the Toyota Camry one of the most successful vehicles of all time. Available in a choice of body styles, trim levels, and powertrains – including self-charging gaselectric hybrid – the Camry family has it all. The Toyota Camry is more than a great vehicle: it’s a family of sedans offered in configurations designed to appeal to every driver. L-series models emphasize Camry’s sophisticated side, while S-series models express Camry’s sporty nature. All Camry models are stylish and sleek, with a wide stance and low centre of gravity.

Inside, the cabin is refined and designed to wrap driver and up to four passengers is comfort. The driver will find all instruments easy to read at a glance and all controls close to hand. All models feature Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, while most models are further enhanced with a Toyota Connected Services package – keeping drivers safe and informed. Models equipped with Audio Plus with Remote include Safety Connect, Remote Connect, and Service

models equipped with a manual transmission include an advanced launch assist control system that helps deliver smooth acceleration from a stopped position. All automatic transmission-equipped

Connect, while those fitted with Premium Audio with Remote add Embedded Navigation with Traffic and Weather, Destination Assist Connect, and Map Updates.

Camry drivers may choose from an efficient 2.5L four-cylinder engine that generates 203 peak horsepower, or a powerful 3.5L V6 that puts 301 peak horsepower at their command. Both engines are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission for rapid shifts and enhanced fuel efficiency.

When advanced performance and efficiency is top of mind, the Camry Hybrid’s fourth-generation self-charging gas-electric powertrain delivers 208 net horsepower and a fuel efficiency rating of 4.9 (city) / 4.8 (highway) liters per 100km – plus instant torque, seamless acceleration, and an exhilarating ride.

As a Toyota, every Camry and Camry Hybrid also features a comprehensive safety package. This includes Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, an advanced bundle of active safety technologies and systems that support driver awareness and decision-making. Other standard safety features include the Toyota Star Safety System, 10 air bags and a back-

models feature the launch control system. Manual transmissionequipped models also feature a carbon-fiber composite drive shaft, with SynchroRev Match® added to 6MT Performance models. The engineering team tuned the chassis, cooling, suspension and steering to ensure the driver always feels connected with the car. Getting behind the wheel, the Z feels new and modern, yet still familiar.

Two drive modes are offered on automatic transmission models, standard and sport. Standard mode is best suited for commuting and long highway drives for a pleasant drive. Sport mode unlocks the Z’s performance potential, offering faster acceleration control, a sports-mode steering algorithm, active sound enhancement and sports-mode vehicle dynamic control setting.

The 2023 Z cabin seamlessly blends modern technology with vintage Z touches. The centre stack takes inspiration from other generations before it, with three analog pod gauges on the instrument panel, 8.0-inch touchscreen audio display in the centre and climate control switches near the shifter.

A full range of convenience features are offered as standard equipment, with the Z Performance grade also includes an 8-speaker Bose® Audio system with Active Noise Cancellation and Active Sound Enhancement.

For the Canadian market, the 2023 Nissan Z will be offered in Sport and Performance grades, each with a choice of a 6-speed manual or new 9-speed automatic transmission. The Nissan Z has a starting price of $46,498.

up camera. Many trim levels are enhanced with additional safety technologies, such as Toyota’s Blind Spot Monitor system with Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

Toyota Dealers will offer the Toyota Camry in a number of model and trim configurations, as follows priced from $30,190$40,350.

Yes I know.

Fans of Avatar have been waiting with baited breath for the sequel to the fantasy blockbuster to hit the silver screen.

Well, I’m happy to say that day has finally arrived - and not a moment too soon. Now made under the banner 20th Century not 20th Century Fox the parent company Disney has a lot to live up to. Guess what -they achieved their goal. Made to be seen on the big screen enjoy the spectacle of Avatar: The Way of Water at countless Cineplex Cinemas and Landmark Theatres across B.C. To see the full potential of this movie if you can afford it the best experience my well be to attend it at an IMAX theatre, All thankfully left standing above water.

This time out visionary Canadian director James Cameron (True Lies) enlists the help of no less than four writers - count ‘em -just like the recent James Bond adventure/misstep. Maybe that should tell you something. Maybe not. What can’t be denied is that this movie is 3 hours and 12 minutes long. Too long despite a good 15 minutes likely devoted to the credits. Who reads these things anyways? Oh, I guess the thousands of people who worked on this movie many ( most?) of whom were probably sitting in front of a computer generating all sorts of dazzling special effects, Now it’s time to talk about the film.

Smartly made the new Avatar will no doubt take home a load of technical awards at next years Oscars. Guaranteed. And you can take that to the bank. Quite simply the movie is a visual marvel. Beautiful cinematography perfectly blends into the story line. Not made for small children, to be honest, teens will have a grand time watching this special effects laden bonanza. Here, however, the key element to any good movie

is the story. Notice how I didn’t say great movie. Cameron, like Spielberg before him, succeeds brilliantly in creating this dazzling new world with characters we first encountered in the original Avatar. Again the mysterious Pandora land and civilization is the key as family comes to the fore. This time we have two macho men going at each other in a game or more precisely a challenge to conquer each other once and for all. Bottom line on the new Avatar is that it follows the tried and true tale of good versus evil. With new cultures and civilizations (hello Disney stablemate The Black Panther) The Way of Water truly creates a new world. With a DNA pedigree that’s Part Aquaman, part Aliens, Part District 19, Part Terminator) Cameron slyly ties the whole film together and strings you along for an unforgettable ride that culminates in an exhilarating epic confrontation that truly puts all these juvenile run of the mill Marvel movies to shame.

For more reviews, please visit my website moviereviewssite.com

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Well settled Punjabi Aggarwal boy, 5’-10” 74 born, issueless divorcee, USA Citizen, Own logistics business in California looking for a Hindu girl. Please Contact at 925-200-6838 (whatsapp) Email: manish_22us@yahoo.com

Suitable match for Manglik/Non-Manglik Permanent Resident Brahmin Boy 30 years, 5’ 6”, fair complexion, electrical tradesperson, looking for well educated girl who values family and career. Please contact bhartikamboj@hotmail.com, 604-440-2756. Caste no bar. *********

Suitable match for a Saraswat Brahmin boy in India, 30 years old, 5’8”, Birth time : 5:32 PM, D.O.B. 16.07.1991, diploma in Mechanical Engineering. Contact: +16049997125 (Canada), (+91) 9888291112 or (+91) 9780616051. *********

Canadian Citizen Bahia Jat Sikh boy, 6” ft, 90 born with good job, well settled family in Canada BC, seeks educated Canada BC based girl. Contact with photographs WhatsApp no: Harminder 778-892-1500

GROOM WANTED

NRI match for Canadian Tonk Kshatriya PR girl, 1996/5’5”, beautiful, fair complexion , well educated, homely girl doing govt. job in a hospital.

Seeking a suitable match for Amritsar’s very beautiful, 5’6”, dentist, 30 years old girl, on a visitor visa in Australia. The boy must be handsome and a permanent resident of Canada. Girl’s siblings are settled in Canada and parents are also in Canada who can help her in every possible ways. For more details, please contact: 778-708-2931 or 011919872745614

Suitable Match invited for handsome, ambitious, Hindu arora, 6’ tall, 40 years old ( looks 30 to 32) The boy works as warehouse manager, part time owns business his business and holds his properties in India please contact me@778-707- 8293 or email me @rijiya2005@ gmail.com.Thank you

Phone 778 840 3282

Hindu Punjabi Parents are looking a suitable match for their daughter, 29 years old, 5’6”, beautiful, well educated, permanent resident, lives in Surrey. Boy should be well educated and a Canadian Permanent Resident. For more information: please contact 778388-5008

Canadian citizen 34 , Hindu Arora beautiful girl 5”2 working in Bank Vancouver, Divorced (was a Short term marriage) seeking for a suitable match and boy should be in Canada.For more information please contact 7788953832.

Suitable match for a Saraswat Brahmin girl, 31 years old, 5’3”, Birthtime: 5:30 PM, diploma in computer Engg., BSCIT, MCA, MA in English. Contact: +91-9780616051 (India), +1-604-999-7125. We consider Divorce too. We need Canadian PR or Citizen boy. *********

Respectable well established Sidhu Family looking for a suitable match for their daughter born in 1981 in Vancouver, never married, university graduate, working as marketing manager with reputed international company. For further information contact: 604-3190662 18 Sept. *********

Seeking SQM for Indian Born Ravidasia/Girl 31 years old, 5’6”, BPT from India with PR status. Boy should be educated with PR/Citizen status, same caste is preferable. Please send complete biodata and pictures at: doctordass@yahoo.com or doctor_daljit@ yahoo.com

Seeking suitable match for a 31 years old, highly educated, working as a COO, Sikh girl. Caste no bar, currently residing in Delhi, India. Contact: 01191-9811129363 (India) or Family in Canada: 778-713-8399 (Baljit)

Wanted a decent man for a 42 years young Punjabi beautiful, looks like 34, well educated, 5”8, with a cute 12 year old child. Contact @604-862-0726.

Housing Market Activity Remains Slow in November

Vancouver, BC: The British Columbia Real Estate Association (BCREA) reports that a total of 4,512 residential unit sales were recorded by the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in November 2022, a decrease of 50.8 per cent from November 2021 and about 30 per cent below a historical average November. The average MLS® residential price in BC was $906,785 an 8.6 per cent decrease from $992,245 recorded in November 2021. Total sales dollar volume was $4.1 billion, a 55 per cent decline from the same time last year.

“A lot has changed in 2022,” said Brendon Ogmundson, Chief Economist. “This time last year, home sales were near a record for November, home prices were accelerating, and mortgage rates were less than half of current levels. Elevated mortgage rates will continue to constrain sales activity, though with the Bank of Canada nearing the end of its tightening cycle and benchmark bond

yields falling, mortgage rate relief may be on the horizon.”

Year-to-date, BC residential sales dollar volume was down 28.7 per cent from the same period in 2021 to $77.4 billion. Residential unit sales were down 34.4 per cent to 77,376 units, while the average MLS® residential price was up 8.6 per cent to $1 million.

THERE’S a lot of “stuff” this time of year – the stuffing in the turkey, for example, or all the meaningless commercial stuff we buy for the holidays that ends up in landfills. The holidays are a good time to look around and assess what is good stuff and what is bad. It might disappoint some readers to learn that this week the “stuff” we are choosing to look at is the mucus in your nose.

There can be quite a volume of this sticky, or runny, or plugged up stuff at this time of year. A very stuffed up nose can be symptom of trouble. Our thoughts are with the many anxious families dealing with young children battling respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

“The hallmark of RSV is that it causes a lot of mucus production that causes you to blow your nose more frequently,” says Dr. Magna Dias, a pediatric physician with Yale Medicine. Fortunately, that’s the worst of it for most children, while for those with weak immune systems, hospitalization is necessary, as we are witnessing now. An ounce of prevention? There is no downside to taking higher doses of vitamin C than typically recommended. And when infection strikes, why not have an immune system primed with extra C, plus fueled 2-3 times a day with high doses?

But don’t be alarmed by some of that mucus in your nose. It’s normal. It might not be apparent when you are coughing it up or sneezing it out, but mucus is good for you.

In fact, mucus is a functional component of the mouth, sinuses, throat, lungs, and gastrointestinal system. It’s mostly water, but also contains antibodies that attack viruses, bacteria, and allergens. Without enough mucus, infections have the advantage.

The sticky quality of mucus helps it trap dust before it gets in the lungs. The slimy element helps slide food down the esophagus and protects the stomach lining from acid. There’s a sexy element of mucus found in cervical secretions too.

The average person produces an astounding four cups of mucus a day! Most of it gets swallowed without notice.

The colour is an indication of whether mucus is “normal” or the harbinger of an unwanted visitor. Clear mucus means good health. Yellow or green suggests a viral infection. Brown or red means the presence of blood, caused by inflammation or the trauma of a finger, perhaps.

Not you picking your nose? It’s rare person who doesn’t. Studies show that nearly all people pick their nose about four times a day. But it is not a clean habit. Mixed with dead skin cells and dirt under the fingernails, it’s possible to find nasty stuff like the bacteria that cause pneumonia and urinary tract infections, and even salmonella and E. coli.

To the extent possible, leave that healthy mucus alone.

A better pastime is to admire the innovative uses of mucus in the animal kingdom. Snail slime helps with protection and propulsion. Some snails use mucus to suspend themselves in midair for a remarkable mating performance. Not surprisingly, there is a robust market for snail mucus in Chinese and Korean medicine and cosmetics.

There has also been research suggesting dolphins take advantage of the mucus in their nasal passages beneath their blowholes to produce their highest frequency

clicks.

All stuffed up for the holidays

Dolphins, snails and fish live in wet places. We humans, however, need to survive through the dry winter air. The lack of humidity can make our noses drier than in other seasons. Drinking more water will help.

And when the nose tickles, reach for a tissue.

Sign-up at www.docgiff.com to receive our weekly e-newsletter. For comments, contact-us@docgiff.com. Follow us on Instagram @docgiff and @diana_gifford_jones

Dr. Ken Walker (Gifford-Jones) is a graduate of the University of Toronto and The Harvard Medical School. He trained in general surgery at the Strong Memorial Hospital, University of Rochester, Montreal General Hospital, McGill University and in Gynecology at Harvard.

Diana MacKay writes in collaboration with

her father under the pen name, Diana Gifford-Jones. Diana is Special Advisor with The Aga Khan University. She worked for ten

years in the Human Development sectors at the World Bank, including health policy and economics, nutrition, and population health.