Indo-Canadian Voice Main - Jun 10 2023

NDP calls for permanent residency for defrauded Punjabi international students facing deportation

FEDERAL NDP Critic for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Jenny Kwan is demanding that deportation orders issued to Punjabi international students due to a targeted exploitation scheme by a fraudulent immigration agent be stopped and they be granted permanent residency.

The MP for Vancouver East said last weekend that her office has been working with the Canadian Federation of Students, Migrant Workers Alliance for Change, and Migrant Rights Network to advocate for impacted students so they can stay in Canada.

Kwan said in a statement: “Last week, I wrote to the Minister of Immigration and the Minister of Public Safety to urge the government to immediately stay

the deportation of all affected students, waive inadmissibility on the basis of misrepresentation, and provide them with a pathway to permanent status.

“My office stands ready to help every student that was defrauded

Poilievre demands halt to deportation of Punjabi international students

and who is not already working with the organizations cited above.

“While Conservatives are making symbolic gestures at the immigration committee that won’t stop the impacted students from being deported, the NDP is focused on getting the direct intervention of the Ministers of Public Security and Immigration in these cases.”

She added: “Students’ lives and careers are at stake. The deportation orders must be stopped, and permanent residency must be granted to them.

“I remain committed to working with the impacted students and the Ministers’ offices to resolve this situation as soon as possible. Impacted students can contact my office for assistance at jenny. kwan@parl.gc.ca.”

CONSERVATIVE Leader Pierre Poilievre on Tuesday rose in Parliament to demand a halt to the deportation of Punjabi international students who were victims of shady consultants who provided them fake admission letters.

He pointed out: “They came here, they followed the law, they studied. Many of them completed their programs, and it was the incompetent Liberal government that had accepted the letters in the first place.”

He added: “Now, this government is kicking them out of the country, sending them home to poverty and bankruptcy for their families.”

Poilievre asked why the government won’t “reverse its incompetence, show a little bit of common sense and compassion,

and let those who came here in good faith and who are contributing to our economy” apply for permanent residence.

Asa Johal inducted posthumously into Business Laureates of BC Hall of Fame

ASA Johal (1922-2021), one of British Columbia’s most successful entrepreneurs and philanthropic leaders and a South Asian legend, was inducted posthumously into the Business Laureates of BC Hall of Fame on May 30 at the 17th annual Business Laureates of BC Hall of Fame Gala Dinner and Induction Ceremonies in Vancouver.

His citation read:

Asa Johal was the President and CEO of Terminal Forest Products,

B.C.’s largest independent lumber company. He immigrated to Canada from India in 1924 when he was a toddler. When the Depression devastated his family financially, he left school at aged 14 to work in a sawmill.

He founded Terminal Forest Products in 1965 and learned how to work with B.C.’s predominately white-owned and white-run forestry companies. He went on to establish sawmills, manufacturing plants and a trucking operation. In addition to growing his lumber

empire, Asa Johal, was a leader in the Sikh community who believed in using his successes to help others.

Over the decades, Johal contributed generously to fundraising campaigns for the B.C. Children’s Hospital, Canadian Cancer Society, Rotary Club-Polio Plus, and other causes supporting immigrants to Canada.

Asa was recognized for being an outstanding citizen by the B.C. government in 1991, earning the Order of B.C. and the Order of

Canada for his contributions to the economy and also his philanthropy. He became a member of the University of British Columbia board of governors and a director of the Children’s Hospital. He was also given an honorary Doctor of Laws degree by the University of British Columbia for his support of ethnic studies.

Asa’s endless beneficiaries included a girls’ school in his home village in Punjab, the Sikh Temple in Richmond (which he founded), and many more.

Arvinder S. Kalsey

Jenny Kwan Photo submitted

Asa Johal. Photo: orderofbc.gov.bc.ca

Pierre Poilievre in Parliament.

CALGARY Police announced on Friday that they had arrested and charged a father and son who are believed to be responsible for the sexual exploitation, assault and extortion of multiple teenage girls over the course of several months.

In April, police located a 13-yearold girl who had previously been reported missing. The girl disclosed to police that she was in a relationship with a 24-year-old man who allegedly provided her with alcohol, drugs, and vapes in exchange for sex. Subsequently, the Calgary Police Service Child Abuse Unit launched an investigation.

Police learned that the 24-year-old man and his 56-year-old father work at and own Haddon Convenience Store, located at 208 Haddon Road S.W. They also own Premier Liquor Wine and Spirits, located next door to the convenience store, where the assaults occurred.

As the investigation progressed, officers determined that the father and son were providing vapes, marijuana, cigarettes and alcohol to multiple other teenage girls,

THE RCMP say they are modernizing their uniform.

RCMP officers from across Canada will be trialing new duty shirts each month over the next six months, from June to December.

Look out for the prototype shirts throughout the trial phase.

The RCMP say that modernization is a key priority for the RCMP, and that includes their uniform. “It’s important that our members have professional, comfortable, and high-performing uniforms that are inclusive of the diverse needs of all who wear them,” they add.

In 2019, the RCMP surveyed frontline members to seek their opinions on how the uniform works for them and what changes they

who were sexually assaulted at the businesses. It is believed the incidents occurred between December 2022 and May 2023. The girls were not able to legally consent, as the age of consent in Canada is 16.

On Thursday, June 1, police arrested both suspects. Police executed a search warrant at a residence located in the 100-block of Panamount Close N.W., which resulted in the seizure of 975 grams of cocaine with a street value of $97,500, and seven handguns. Search warrants were also executed at the two businesses, which resulted in the seizure

of a computer with child pornography, drugs and drug paraphernalia, contraband tobacco, vape cartridges and collapsible batons.

As a result, Sumrit Walia, 24, has been charged with: One count of sexual interference with a minor, one count of sexual exploitation, one count of sexual assault, one count of possession of child pornography, one count of accessing child pornography, one count of creating child pornography, seven counts of unlawful possession of a firearm, one count of possession of a controlled substance for the

purpose of trafficking, one count of extortion, three counts of uttering threats, one count of selling contraband tobacco to youth and one count of breach of a court order.

He was scheduled to appear in court on Friday, June 2.

Gurpartap Singh Walia, 56, is charged with four counts of sexual assault, four counts of sexual interference with a minor and one count of selling contraband tobacco.

He is scheduled to appear in court Thursday, June 22.

“These are incredibly serious charges, where vulnerable youths were being targeted, exploited and forced to enter a dangerous lifestyle,” said Staff-Sgt. Darren Smith of the Calgary Police Service Child Abuse Unit. “Thankfully, with the support of Alberta Health Services, Alberta Gaming Liquor and Cannabis Commission, and The City of Calgary, we have been able to stop the continued exploitation of these young girls, and with our partners at the Luna Child and Youth Advocacy Centre, will be able to support the victims moving forward.”

don’t want anyone to arrive in our organization and encounter uniform or equipment that has clearly been designed with someone else in mind.

“Our members have asked us to ensure pants, shirts and protective equipment fit properly, are more comfortable, and can be easily cared for to ensure a professional look and enhanced safety.

would like to see to make them more effective. They also examined many submissions to the RCMP Innovation Inbox, where one fifth of all employee suggestions were related to uniform and equipment. Then the RCMP used employee

feedback from the survey and other means to improve the RCMP’s uniform and equipment, with a focus on inclusion and innovation.

Last October, the RCMP said: “We need our RCMP uniform to function for all the people who wear it. We

“The uniform must also meet the needs of a diverse organization. This has meant updating grooming policies (like allowing beards), and enhancing the uniform to include a wider variety of items, like the dastaar, patka and hijab. It also means ensuring we have the personal protective equipment that safely integrates with these items.”

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Union launches website urging Surrey Mayor and Council to transition to Surrey Police Service

SURREY Police Union on Tuesday launched a new website, DispatchNow. ca, that calls for swift action from Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke to follow provincial recommendations to transition to a local police service.

“We’re launching DispatchNow.ca because we need more police officers on the ground now. We need to dispatch the police,” said Ryan Buhrig, Surrey Police Union spokesperson.

“Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke is stalling on making a decision to fully transition to a local police force. Meanwhile, violent crimes are escalating in Surrey.”

In April, Public Safety Minister and Solicitor General Mike Farnworth made a recommendation to fully transition to a local police force to address the public safety issues in Surrey.

“The Minister rejected the City’s original plan. A vote to keep the RCMP would mean dangerously low staffing levels,” said Rick Stewart, President of the Surrey Police Union.

There are currently numerous Surrey Police Service members available and waiting to be dispatched, pending delays on the City of Surrey’s final decision on whether to transition to a local police force. In some cases, these

are qualified officers with substantial years of experience from other police jurisdictions.

“We invite the community to show their support for a transition to the Surrey Police Service by adding their name through the website,” said Stewart. “Every day that we don’t have a commitment from the Mayor and Council to follow the Province’s recommendation to transition to a local police force, more crimes are committed and innocent people are hurt.”

For more information on the Surrey Police Union’s new website, visit DispatchNow.ca.

Search for Suleiman Khawar ends tragically

VANCOUVER Police announced on Tuesday that the remains of Suleiman Khawar were recovered from False Creek on Monday, bringing a tragic end to an 11-day search that began when the Vancouver man went missing late last month.

Khawar was last seen May 25 while at Mansion Night Club near West Georgia and Thurlow. At around midnight, he told his family he was on his way home, but he did not show up.

His family told the media that cell phone records show he was heading southbound on Granville to cross the

Granville Bridge. Suleiman’s body was discovered by a boater near Granville Island just after

8:30 a.m. on Monday. The BC Coroners Service is now investigating.

The Vancouver Police extended condolences to Suleiman’s loved ones, and thanked all of the community members who came together to search for Suleiman after he went missing on May 25.

The Vancouver Police investigation into his disappearance remains open. Anyone who saw or interacted with Suleiman just before midnight on May 25, or in the early hours of May 26, is asked to called VPD’s Missing Person Unit at 604-717-2530 or email vpd. missing@vpd.ca.

“We need more police officers on the ground now”

Rick Stewart.

Photo: SPS

Website

Suleiman Khawar.

DJ Shub and Gurnam Bhullar to headline Surrey Fusion Festival 2023

Eligible travellers from 13 more countries, including Philippines, now qualify for visa-free travel to Canada

SEAN Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, on Tuesday announced the addition of 13 countries to the electronic travel authorization (eTA) program.

Travellers from these countries who have either held a Canadian visa in the last 10 years or who currently hold a valid United States non-immigrant visa can now apply for an eTA instead of a visa when travelling to Canada by air.

Effective June 6, eligible travellers from these countries can benefit from the program:

*Antigua and Barbuda

*Argentina

*Costa Rica

*Morocco

*Panama

*Philippines

*St. Kitts and Nevis

*St. Lucia

*St. Vincent and the Grenadines

*Seychelles

*Thailand

and boat—including by cruise ship), will still need a visitor visa. Travellers can visit Canada.ca/eTA to find out whether they’re eligible for an eTA and how to apply for one.

SURREY Fusion Festival has announced headliners for the 16th annual free event. Indigenous electronic artist DJ Shub will perform on Saturday, July 22, followed by Punjabi singer and actor Gurnam Bhullar on Sunday, July 23.

The festival will also host performances by JESSIA, Ikky, Wesli and Don Amero. The festival runs from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. both days in Holland Park and will feature 50 pavilions representing cultures from around the world.

Renowned as the ‘Godfather of PowWowStep’, DJ Shub has spearheaded the rise of this thriving electronic music genre.

Gurnam Bhullar is an accomplished Indian artist best known for his single “Diamond” which has received over 645 million views on YouTube.

Additional artists performing on Saturday, July 22 include JESSIA, a Ucluelet-raised

indie pop artist known for her song “I’m Not Pretty”, as well as Ikky, who performs a fusion of hip hop, R&B, and Punjabi music. Haitian-Canadian and Juno award-winning artist Wesli and Indigenous country artist Don Amero will perform on Sunday, July 23. The festival will also feature a variety of local performers across all stages.

Surrey Fusion Festival’s 2023 theme “Dance Around the World” will be displayed at 50 cultural pavilions and across eight stages. The Cultural Cooking Arena will showcase a Surrey youth cooking competition on Saturday, July 22, and cooking demonstrations by cultural pavilion organizers on Sunday, July 23. The two-day festival will also feature amusement rides, a kid’s zone, dance battles, dance workshops, an Indigenous Village, Indigenous marketplace, and amusement rides. For more information, visit www. surreyfusionfestival.ca.

*Trinidad and Tobago

*Uruguay

Fraser said that introducing visa-free air travel will make it faster, easier, and more affordable for thousands of travellers to visit Canada for up to six months for either business or leisure. It will also help grow Canada’s economy by facilitating more travel, tourism and international business, and by strengthening Canada’s relationships with these countries while keeping Canadians safe.

This decision will also divert thousands of applications from Canada’s visa caseload, allowing processing of visa applications more efficiently, which will benefit all visa applicants.

Individuals who already have a valid visa can continue to use it to travel to Canada. Those who are not eligible for an eTA, or who are travelling to Canada by means other than air (for example, by car, bus, train

Lisa Pierce, Vice President, Global Sales and Air Canada Vacations, said: “Air Canada is pleased with the announcement today to implement a more user-friendly process to obtain authorization to travel to Canada and connect via Air Canada’s global hubs. The global market for travel and tourism is competitive, and finding easier ways for travellers to obtain their travel authorizations is beneficial not only to Air Canada, but also the entire travel and tourism industry in Canada.”

Tamara Vrooman, President and CEO, Vancouver Airport Authority, said: “Expanding visa-free air travel presents immediate opportunities for YVR to connect with more countries around the world, including key destinations in Latin America and Asia. That enhanced access to global markets will provide incredible benefits for our community and support local economic growth. This decisive policy action is a step in the right direction for YVR, British Columbia and Canada. It continues to provide opportunities for people to enjoy our world-class tourism experiences or reunite with loved ones, creates new jobs, and will deliver more direct revenue for our local economy.”

Gurnam Bhullar is an accomplished Indian artist best known for his single “Diamond” which has received over 645 million views on YouTube.

Sean Fraser.

Gurnam Bhullar is an accomplished Indian artist best known for his single “Diamond” which has received over 645 million views on YouTube

Planning underway to expand Surrey Memorial Hospital

THe Province and Fraser Health announced on Wednesday that they are providing immediate assistance with further help available in the coming months and planning underway to expand Surrey Memorial Hospital.

From June 1-6, Adrian Dix, Minister of Health; Stephen Brown, deputy minister of health; Jim Sinclair, Board Chair of Fraser Health; and Dr. Victoria Lee, CEO of Fraser Health, met with staff from various departments at SMH to listen to concerns and work on solutions.

“I’m grateful for the many health-care workers at Surrey Memorial Hospital who have raised their concerns to me, including the hard-working people who have taken time out of their day over the past week to speak with me,” said Dix. “Along with Fraser Health, we are all working together on real, meaningful solutions to improve hospital flow and ensure health-care workers are fully supported in providing their patients with the best possible care. This includes a plan to expand the hospital to better meet the need of this growing community. We’re going to keep working with health-care providers in Surrey and across the province to strengthen the care people need.”

To bolster SMH’s function as a tertiary hospital, the Province and Fraser Health are outlining specific actions, including planning work to expand the existing Surrey Memorial Hospital by improving and increasing capacity for more inpatient and outpatient care, surgeries and clinical programs, in addition to the new Surrey hospital being built in Cloverdale.

More details about this expansion at SMH will be identified through the fall 2023 annual capital planning process, which will build upon a refreshed clinical service plan for the hospital and region.

WHIle this work is being done, the Province and Fraser Health will implement other solutions to benefit health-care workers and patients in the short and medium term.

Immediate actions include:

* working with hospitalists to stabilize their physician workforce and sufficient service levels to ensure continued access to inpatient medicine services, while also working to build out their capacity and establish a new contract;

* increasing funding available for additional physician coverage, nursing and alliedhealth services, including opening a care and triage unit in the emergency department;

* utilizing nearby community health-care services to relieve patient demand at the emergency department, including additional resources to expand hours of urgent and primary-care centres;

* introducing an interdisciplinary team for child and youth mental health for emergency care and staffing for the pediatric emergency department;

* increasing the number of internal medicine positions to support admitted patients and build out an internal medicine clinical teaching unit to support recruitment;

* increasing capacity in outpatient and community services to discharge patients safely 24 hours, seven days a week;

* focusing on psychological and physical health and safety of staff by augmenting available counselling services on site and continuing to hire additional relational security officers;

* funding for additional workforce, such as clinical associates, associate physicians and nurse practitioners; and

* targeted international recruitment of medical and health-care staff. The Ministry of Health and Fraser Health are also actively engaging with medical staff and staff from the Family Birthing Unit at SMH to ensure that it continues to serve as the highest tier of services for maternity and women’s health care at the hospital. This will involve adding more support for the care teams, expanding access to operating rooms and increasing the infrastructure for maternity, pediatrics and women’s health in the longer term.

IN the medium term, the Ministry of Health

will work closely with Fraser Health, including medical staff, nurses and allied health professionals, to refresh clinical service planning. The plan will determine how and where services should be delivered in Surrey and the broader region. The plan for SMH will include:

* expanding renal services within 18 months;

* building a second interventional radiology suite at Surrey Memorial Hospital, which will enable stroke and cardiac specialty expansion;

* adding two cardiac catheterization labs at Surrey Memorial Hospital;

* adding new MRI and CT and replacing existing CT with cardiac capabilities to increase access to diagnostic services;

* completing renovations of existing operating rooms to expand capacity;

* expanding critical health-care services such as outpatient, home health and home support services, clinical social work, physiotherapy, rehabilitation and respiratory therapy;

* expanding the Urgent Care Response Centre and Gateway Mental Health services to 12 hours, seven days a week;

* renovation to the pediatric emergency waiting areas;

* increased access to transitional beds for vulnerable patient populations by purchasing new care spaces;

* building out innovative and digital services such as Hospital at Home, Digital Front Door and virtual specialty consultation services;

* significantly increasing resident physician allocation at Fraser Health and including Surrey Memorial Hospital as their home residency sites; and

* enhancing Fraser Health’s successful inhouse learning institute to close critical gaps in allied staff and nursing. The Province and Fraser Health said they will continue working with SMH and staff to find solutions that will support providing quality care to patients in Surrey.

Health Minister Adrian Dix (far left) with Surrey MLAs Rachna Singh and Harry Bains at Surrey Memorial Hospital. Photo: Twitter

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Federal indictment against Trump unsealed in classified documents probe

FORMER U.S. Former President Donald Trump and Trump aide, Walt Nauta, have been indicted in the special counsel’s classified documents probe.

Trump faces 31 counts of willful retention of national defense information, according to the indictment, which marks the first time a former president has faced federal charges.

The indictment provides details about where Trump allegedly stored classified information and correspondence within his inner circle that prosecutors allege show that Trump sought to conceal documents being sought in a federal investigation.

Walt Nauta, the Trump aide that was also indicted Friday, lied to investigators when he was interviewed by the FBI in May 2022 for the probe into the former president’s handling of classified documents, prosecutors allege.

As part of the indictment, prosecutors point to several of Trump’s public statements, illustrating how he understood how classified information was supposed to be handled under the law.

Several of the statements highlighted by prosecutors are from Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign. Trump repeatedly lambasted the mishandling of classified information and said that he would aggressively enforce laws surrounding their protection if elected.

“In my administration, I’m going to enforce all laws concerning the protection of classified information,” Trump said in August 2016. “No one will be above the law.”

“We can’t have someone in the Oval Office who doesn’t understand the meaning of the word confidential or classified,” Trump said in another campaign trail statement, according to the indictment.

The indictment also points to a statement that Trump made as president in 2018: “I have a unique, Constitutional responsibility to protect the Nation’s classified information,” he said.

Trump went on to say, according to the indictment, that “such access [to national secrets] is particularly inappropriate when former officials have transitioned into highly partisan positions and seek to use real or perceived access to sensitive information to validate their political attacks. Any access granted to our Nation’s secrets should be in furtherance of national, not personal, interests.”

Smith, appointed by Attorney General Merrick Garland, was tasked in November with looking into whether Trump or his aides committed crimes by taking classified documents to his Mar-a-Lago resort after he left the White House and whether they obstructed the investigation.

Trump attacked special counsel Jack Smith in his first comments after the federal indictment was unsealed Friday.

Trump attacks Smith as “deranged” and a “Trump Hater” who shouldn’t be involved in any case “having to do with ‘Justice,’” the former president said in a Truth Social post.

The former president is expected to appear in a Miami courthouse on Tuesday afternoon.

Special counsel Jack Smith said his office would seek a “speedy trial.” He said: “It’s very important for me to note that the defendants in this case must be presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. To that end, my office will seek a speedy trial in this matter, consistent with the public interest and the rights of the accused.”

Legal team changes: Trump announced on Truth Social that he will be represented by Todd Blanche, a defense lawyer he hired in April after being indicted in Manhattan. Trump is also planning to add another Florida-based attorney to the case, sources familiar with his thinking said. This is a major change to his legal team. His attorneys Jim Trusty and John Rowley said they will no longer represent Trump on either the federal indictment case or the January 6 investigation.

The judge:

Federal District Judge Aileen Cannon, who Trump appointed, has been initially assigned to oversee the federal criminal case in Miami, two sources familiar with the matter tell CNN. If she remains on

the case she would have wide latitude to control timing and evidence in the case and be able to vet the Justice Department’s legal theory. Cannon emerged in the public spotlight last year when she oversaw court proceedings related to the FBI’s search of Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida.

Security preparations:

Federal and local law enforcement officials are working on a plan to deliver Trump to the Miami federal courthouse where he will be formally placed under arrest and processed, according to law enforcement officials briefed on the discussions. Officials from various agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security, are meeting in Miami to discuss security preparations.

- CNN

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Punjab to provide free legal assistance to students facing deportation from Canada

Chandigarh (IANS): Punjab NonResident Indian (NRI) Affairs Minister Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal on Thursday said the state government will provide free legal assistance to 700 students facing deportation from Canada.

Most of these students belong to Punjab and they will be assisted by lawyers who are experts in immigration laws in Canada. Besides, Dhaliwal has written a letter to all MPs of Punjab origin in Canada to solve the issues of these students so that the future of the children can be secured.

Presiding over a meeting with civil and police officers associated with the NRI Department here, Dhaliwal issued instructions to all Deputy Commissioners and the SSPs to scrutinize the documents of travel agents and immigration agencies and send a report by July 10.

He expressed concern that many travel agents are running immigration agencies illegally.

Dhaliwal said Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has already given clear instructions to improve the system. He said if the system would be transparent

and clean, then there will be less scope for human trafficking by illegal travel and immigration agencies.

He said a special campaign against fake travel agents and immigration agencies would soon be launched in Punjab.

The minister said in the past 10 years, if any Punjabi immigrant has been deliberately implicated in a wrong case, it should be

Woman dies in North Vancouver fire

NORTH Vancouver RCMP and North Vancouver City Fire Department (NVCFD) are investigating a fatal fire that occurred on Friday evening.

Just before midnight on Friday, June 2, RCMP, NVCFD and the District of North Vancouver Fire and Rescue Services (DNVFRS) responded to a residential structure fire that occurred in the 400-block of Queensbury Avenue in North Vancouver. NVCFD worked to contain the fire and quickly extinguished it.

One person was subsequently found deceased inside the residence. They have been identified as a woman from the residence, police said.

The North Vancouver RCMP Victim Services and North Shore Emergency Management are providing assistance to the family.

“This was a tragic incident resulting in the loss of life,” said Constable Mansoor Sahak, spokesperson for North Vancouver RCMP.

“The RCMP are conducting a thorough investigation, and are working with partner agencies including NVCFD to determine the cause. Any witnesses to this incident are encouraged to contact us at 604-985-1311.”

If you have information about this incident, but wish to remain anonymous, contact CrimeStoppers by phone at 1-800222-TIPS (8477).

brought to their attention. Such cases will be investigated and justice will be given to the victim.

Taking an exclusive initiative, this time NRI meetings will be held for the first time in those villages whose immigrants have done good work in their villages or earned the name at the national or international level.

Dhaliwal said the NRI meetings to be held at the district level from July 15 to August 30. He invited all non-resident Punjabis to bring their problems during NRI meetings and efforts will be made to solve every problem on the spot.

MEANWHILE, on the issue of many Indian students facing deportation in Canada due to fraudulent admissions, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said in New Delhi that they should not be penalized for someone else’s crime.

The minister said the students took

admission and studied at those colleges in good faith and it is “unfair to punish” them.

“For some time now, there is this case of students, who the Canadians say did not study in the college in which they should have, and when they applied for a work permit, they got into difficulties,” Jaishankar said.

Hundreds of Indian students, mainly from Punjab, are facing deportation from Canada after the authorities there, found “admission offer letters” to educational institutions to be fake.

“From the very start, we have taken up this case and our point is, the students studied in good faith. If there were people who misled them, the culpable parties should be acted against. It is unfair to punish a student who undertook their education in good faith. I think the Canadians also accept that it would be unfair if a student has done no wrong. We will continue to press,” Jaishankar added.

Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal

Vince Ready appointed special mediator in Fraser Valley transit labour dispute

LABOUR Minister Harry Bains announced on Thursday that he has appointed Vince Ready as a special mediator in the ongoing labour dispute involving First Transit and CUPE Local 561 in the Fraser Valley after recent talks with both parties.

Bains noted: “This dispute has been incredibly challenging for everyone who relies on the bus service. The prolonged absence of transportation has had real impacts on residents in the region.”

He said: “Vince Ready is a highly regarded mediator among the labour, business and public-sector communities, and I am confident he will do everything he can to help the parties end this labour dispute.

“Under the Labour Relations Code, a special mediator assists in settling the terms of a collective agreement and reports back to the minister responsible.

“Vince Ready will work with the parties for up to 10 days to secure a resolution to the ongoing strike. If a settlement cannot be reached within this timeline, he will issue recommendations to end the dispute, with

India criticizes Canada for controversial float depicting Indira Gandhi’s assassination

New Delhi (IANS): External Affairs Minister

S. Jaishankar on Thursday strongly criticized Canada after visuals of a parade float depicting the assassination of former Indian prime minister Indira Gandhi in Ontario’s Brampton surfaced.

Addressing a press conference to highlight achievements of the Centre in the last nine years in terms of foreign policy, Jaishankar said in response to the incident, “I don’t know why Canada does this. Giving space to extremist elements is not good for it.”

“Frankly, we are at a loss to understand other than the requirements of vote bank politics why anybody would do this. I think there is a larger underlying issue about the space which is given to separatists, to extremists, to people who advocate violence,” he added.

both parties having five days to accept or reject the recommendations.”

Bains said: “It is important that both sides work toward a fair resolution at the bargaining table, which is the best place for a collective agreement to be reached.”

To another query on a Canadian government official blaming India of meddling in its affairs, Jaishankar quipped, “Rather we have complaints against Canada on the space it gives to Khalistani elements. It is like the saying in Hindi – ‘Ulta chor kotwal ko daante’ [The thief has the audacity to scold the police officer].”

The minister went on to add that such incidents of Khalistani elements creating a ruckus have also occurred in many other countries like the UK and Australia.

“Our request to all these nations is that they should not be taken seriously, as these are marginal elements and are a small minority,” Jaishankar said.

MEANWHILE, the Congress opposition party urged Jaishankar to take decisive action in the matter. Milind Deora, a Congress leader and former Union minister, shared a video circulating on social media that allegedly captured the controversial float.

Expressing his dismay, Deora tweeted: “As an Indian, I am deeply disturbed by the 5 km-long parade held in Brampton,

Canada, which featured a depiction of the assassination of Indira Gandhi.”

“It’s not about taking sides, it’s about respect for a nation’s history & the pain caused by its Prime Minister’s assassination,” he said on twitter.

“This extremism deserves universal condemnation & a united response,” he tweeted.

Responding to Deora’s tweet, Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh expressed his agreement and stated: “I entirely agree! This is despicable and @ DrSJaishankar should take it up strongly with the Canadian authorities.”

CANADIAN High Commissioner in India

Cameron MacKay tweeted: “I am appalled by reports of an event in Canada that celebrated the assassination of late Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. There is no place in Canada for hate or for the glorification of violence. I categorically condemn these activities.”

S Jaishankar

Harry Bains. Photo: BC Government

Targeting retail theft at Guildford

A coordinated effort by Surrey RCMP, Transit Police and Delta Police resulted in 26 arrests and the recovery of thousands of dollars in stolen merchandise during a one-day operation in Guildford.

Surrey RCMP’s North Community Response Unit, Metro Vancouver Transit Police Service Crime Suppression Team and Delta Police Service Patrol Support Team teamed up to target retail theft on May 25 at the Guildford Town Centre in Surrey.

In one day, police made 26 arrests, including executing five arrest warrants, and recommended 15 criminal charges. Over $5,000 in stolen merchandise was recovered including, food, clothing, electronics, and cosmetics. The people arrested ranged in age from teenagers to adults in their forties.

One of the individuals arrested, 26-year-old Donovan Alexander from Vancouver, is facing two ‘theft under $5,000’ charges stemming from the joint project after being caught by police twice within 90 minutes. He was released on an undertaking to appear in court for the first alleged theft, and picked up again one and a half hours later after being observed stealing from a supermarket.

VPD renews appeal for fugitive Cody Timothy Casey wanted Canada-wide

Alexander was then held in police custody and appeared in Surrey Provincial Court. He was later released by the courts on conditions not to be in the City of Surrey, except under prescribed conditions, including attending court.

“We recognize that criminals are conducting retail theft across municipal borders, often using public transit, and their crimes have a significant negative impact on the community, including local businesses. These crimes result in additional costs to our families with each purchase we make,” said North Community Response Unit Commander StaffSgt. Nigel Pronger. “Surrey RCMP is thankful for the assistance and strong partnerships with both Transit and Delta Police, who contributed to this enforcement operation.”

“Transit Police works closely with our jurisdictional police partners, ensuring the safety of Transit passengers, while also working on projects to target those criminals who use public transit to commit crime,” said Constable Amanda Steed of the Metro Vancouver Transit Police. “The number of arrests are a strong reflection that teamwork made this joint effort a huge success.”

VANCOUVER Police have partnered with the BOLO program and Metro Vancouver Crime Stoppers to renew an appeal for tips on the whereabouts of Cody Timothy Casey, a man wanted Canada-wide for drugs and firearms offences.

“VPD’s Organized Crime Section began an investigation in February 2020, which led to charges against Casey in relation to the production and trafficking of fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine, as well as firearm offences,” said Inspector Phil Heard, commanding officer of Vancouver Police Department’s Organized Crime Section, on Wednesday.

“Prior to having to appear for trial in 2022, investigators believe Casey left Canada. However, we believe there are people in Metro Vancouver who have knowledge of his current whereabouts.”

Casey, 36, is six feet tall and weighs approximately 200 pounds. He has brown hair and brown eyes.

“In cooperation with Metro Vancouver Crime Stoppers, the Bolo Program is pleased to offer a reward of up to $100,000 for any information leading to the arrest of Mr. Casey,” said Max Langlois, Executive Director of the

Stolen

BOLO program.

“If your tip is successful, our top priority will be to give you the reward you deserve, just like we’ve done numerous times in the past.”

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Cody Casey is asked to call investigators at 604-717-9979 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

vehicle with loaded firearm and jerry can seized in Surrey

THE Surrey RCMP Auto Crime Target Team (ACTT) and the Integrated Municipal Provincial Auto Crime Team (IMPACT) recently located a stolen vehicle with a loaded firearm and jerry can full of gasoline inside.

On May 24 at approximately 9:54 a.m., Surrey RCMP ACTT and IMPACT responded to the report of a suspicious vehicle in the 13800-block of 104 Avenue. An off-duty police officer noted the vehicle with mismatched plates and called it in.

Upon arrival, police noted an unoccupied vehicle with one licence plate that had been reported stolen. Two individuals returned to the parked vehicle and a 39-year-old man, believed to be the driver, who is known to police was transported to Surrey RCMP cells

and held in custody. The second individual was released pending further investigation. Investigators confirmed that the vehicle was stolen from Coquitlam in November 2022. The stolen vehicle was seized, towed and a search warrant was executed on the vehicle. A loaded firearm and a jerry can full of gasoline were located inside.

“We often see stolen vehicles connected to other crimes, including shootings where a suspect vehicle is located on fire at another location,” said Media Relations Officer Cpl. Vanessa Munn. “In this case, an off-duty police officer followed their instincts and reported the suspicious vehicle, leading to the arrest, firearm seizure, and very likely the prevention of further acts of violence.”

Surrey RCMP: Wanted man Terry McDonald arrested

Surrey RCMP: Wanted man Kwabena Bosiako arrested

SURREY RCMP announced on Wednesday that wanted man Kwabena Bosiako is in custody.

Bosiako had left his court-mandated residence in Surrey and removed his electronic monitoring device. Since then, officers with the Surrey RCMP Gang Enforcement Team had been leading the search for him, following up on a number of investigative avenues.

On June 7 at approximately 9:45 a.m., the Surrey RCMP High Risk Target Team with the assistance of the Integrated Lower Mainland Emergency Response Team arrested Bosiako at the Columbia Square complex in New Westminster. He was transported to Surrey RCMP cells.

TERRY

removed their ankle monitors and left their court mandated residence in Surrey on May 26, has been arrested for his outstanding warrant, Surrey RCMP announced on Wednesday.

The other male, Joseph Gregory, remains on the lam.

On June 7 at approximately 2:45 p.m.,

Surrey

with the assistance of the Integrated Lower Mainland Emergency Response Team arrested McDonald in the Fleetwood area of Surrey.

He was transported to Surrey RCMP cells and will remain in custody to be brought before the courts.

Coquitlam RCMP seek to identify assault suspect

COQUITLAM RCMP are appealing to the public for assistance in identifying a suspect from an assault that occurred on Tuesday, April 11.

At 2:10 p.m. on April 11, an unknown man assaulted an adult man following a verbal dispute about their dogs playing together at Burns Park located at 802 Edgar Avenue in Coquitlam.

The suspect wanted financial compensation from the victim, as they believed the victim’s dog injured the

suspect’s dog. Police believe that the suspect may have sought medical treatment for their dog at a local

veterinarian clinic.

The 39-year-old victim suffered minor injuries. Victim services is engaged.

Bosiako was under 24/7 house arrest with conditions including electronic monitoring while awaiting trial on charges in relation to a Port Coquitlam armed robbery that occurred on November 22, 2022, at the Journey Chrysler car dealership located at 1881 Lougheed Highway. Also, shots were fired at Coquitlam RCMP members.

The charges include multiple counts of

robbery using an unauthorized firearm, discharging a firearm with intent and flight from police.

Bosiako also had an outstanding arrest warrant out of Burnaby for dangerous operation of a conveyance that was issued on June 5, 2023.

Kwabena Bosiako.

The suspect.

McDonald, one of two males that

RCMP Strike Force Target Team

Photos: RCMP

Joseph Gregory.

Terry McDonald.

New long-term care home coming to Delta

MORE people in Delta and surrounding area will have access to high-quality longterm care as Fraser Health prepares to build a new care community with 200 beds.

“Ensuring seniors across B.C. have confidence that when they age, they will receive care services that will allow them to stay healthy, active and safe in their community is a priority for our government,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Health, on Thursday. “That’s why we continue to take meaningful action and invest in care homes, like the one in Delta, to ensure people have access to home-like care in the community.”

Fraser Health will construct and operate the long-term care community on vacant land at the Delta Hospital site. The project is in the procurement phase with construction expected to begin in 2025 and be

complete in 2027. During the design phase, First Nations will partner with Fraser Health to design a culturally safe care home.

The new care homes will replace the 92 beds at Mountain View Manor, which is 46 years old, and add 108 new beds. The facility will be designed as “households” accommodating 12 or 13 residents. Each resident will have a single-bed room with a bathroom.

The new facility will

include the social and recreational spaces found in a typical home, such as a living room, dining room, activity space and access to the outdoors. As well, an innovative stand-alone child daycare facility will be constructed and offer 49 spaces for families.

There will also be community spaces and services for residents, families, visitors and staff, including art and activity rooms, a hair salon, a sacred space and a 32-space adult day program for people living more independently.

The capital costs are funded with $179.7 million from the Ministry of Health. The care community will be constructed, owned and operated by Fraser Health. The Delta Hospital and Community Health Foundation has also committed to raise $18.5 million for the project.

New campaign about proper smoke-alarm use and reducing fire risks

THE Province is providing $1.6 million for a new campaign to help educate people about proper smoke-alarm use and reducing fire risks, which will save lives and protect first responders.

Government is partnering with the BC Injury Research and Prevention Unit (BCIRPU) to promote community fire-risk reduction, including a comprehensive smoke-alarm social marketing campaign to reduce the number of fire-related injuries and deaths in British Columbia.

“We are taking action to overturn the alarming trend of increasing firerelated deaths in our province,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, on Thursday. “Once a fire starts, people have very little time to get out of their home safely, making a working smoke alarm a critical tool for saving lives. I’m urging everyone to test their smoke alarms at least once every six months to keep their home and family safe.”

The Office of the Fire Commissioner (OFC) has released its annual report for 2022. According to the report, in 2022 there were 9,087 fires resulting in 212 injuries and 86 deaths. Further, a working smoke alarm was present at only 45% of the reported residential structure fires. The statistics and trends identified in the report help local government fire services effectively allocate personnel and resources to reduce community fire risk, and the number of fires and fire-related injuries and deaths.

The Province has partnered with Statistics Canada to build a Community Fire-Risk Reduction Dashboard. Alongside the education campaign, these two integrated projects will help B.C. fire services prevent fires, reduce injuries and save lives, which is crucial given the increasing trend in firerelated deaths.

“The Office of the Fire Commissioner annual report provides important trends, which highlight the work that needs to be

done to stop these fires from happening in the first place,” said Brian Godlonton, B.C.’s Fire Commissioner. “The dashboard combined with the smoke-alarm and social-marketing campaign will not only help prevent fires but, more importantly, prevent injuries and save lives.”

The dashboard provides statistical and geographical information to help B.C.’s fire services identify areas in communities at greatest risk of home fires. This will help protect residents, firefighters, and reduce the social and financial impacts to communities affected by fires. The dashboard data is being used by the BCIRPU to develop the smoke-alarm education campaign, which will be broadcast around the province in the fall.

The OFC launched pilots of the dashboard in 11 cities, including Coquitlam, Surrey, Kamloops, Sidney and Port Alberni in July 2022. The dashboard will be rolled out throughout the province in the coming weeks.

Kwabena Bosiako.

Adrian Dix Photo: BC

New opportunities created for British Columbians on Asia trade mission

PEOPLE and businesses in British Columbia will benefit from new jobs, diversified supply chains and a stronger, cleaner economy following the Province’s successful trade mission to Asia, says Premier David Eby.

The two-week trade mission included Japan, the Republic of Korea (ROK), Singapore and Vietnam.

Eby said on Thursday: “This trade mission ensured our province is first to leverage the federal Indo-Pacific Strategy to deliver stability, jobs and opportunity for all British Columbians in a time of global uncertainty and rising costs.

“While Japan and Korea are strong historical trading partners and British Columbia has deep business ties with Singapore, showing up in person in the context of our new Trade Diversification Strategy delivers the message that British Columbians are reliable partners on the cutting edge of clean energy, clean technology, biotech, agritech, education and responsible resource development.

“This refreshed relationship and ongoing actions by our government will show ongoing economic benefits for British Columbians, starting as soon as this summer with a visit from a new clean-energy major project investor from Korea.”

Eby went to Japan and the ROK, where he was accompanied by Josie Osborne, Minister of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation; Brenda Bailey, Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation; and Jagrup Brar, Minister of State for Trade.

The Premier also went to Singapore. Brar went to Vietnam, where he officially opened B.C.’s trade and investment representative office.

“The Indo-Pacific is the world’s fastestgrowing economic region, and this trade mission gave us the opportunity to reaffirm and expand B.C.’s presence in this competitive global environment,” said Bailey. “By strengthening our relationships with government, business and industry leaders, we are creating new trade and investment partnerships that will grow our clean

economy and benefit all British Columbians.”

The trade mission focused on promoting B.C.’s strengths in key sectors, such as clean energy, clean technology, natural resources and critical minerals, information and communications technology, and agrifood.

Eby and the ministers held dozens of meetings with government officials, company representatives, industry organizations and cultural institutions.

Several meetings focused on B.C.’s plans to export hydrogen. B.C. created the first hydrogen strategy in Canada, and there are many hydrogen projects in development in the province. Following meetings in Japan, the Japanese government announced its plan to invest 15 trillion yen (approximately C$143.2 billion) to supply the country with hydrogen over the next 15 years.

Potential solutions to housing challenges also emerged as a key point of discussion. In Japan, Eby met with the Daito Trust Construction Company to discuss its innovative rental housing model. In Singapore, the Premier met with the Ministry

of National Development’s Housing and Development Board to discuss housing policies that could inform the new BC Builds program. Through BC Builds, the Province aims to work with partners to build middleincome homes on publicly owned land.

In Japan, the ROK and Singapore, Eby delivered a keynote address to government, economic and community leaders focused on B.C.’s historical, cultural and economic relationship with the nation; B.C.’s role as Canada’s gateway to the Indo-Pacific; and the province’s competitive advantages, including as a supplier of clean energy, clean technology and critical minerals.

During the mission, the Province signed three renewed and strengthened bilateral agreements focused on climate change and clean energy. Additionally, B.C. and the Korea Mine Rehabilitation and Mineral Resources Corporation signed a statement of co-operation to work together to advance the development of critical minerals for both countries.

“B.C. has the clean energy and critical minerals needed to drive the global transition to a low-carbon economy,” said Osborne.

“This trade mission allowed us to meet face to face with key trade partners and strengthen our collaboration on priorities, such as unlocking new sources of energy like hydrogen and developing the critical minerals sector. This will create more jobs and opportunities for people across the province, as well as a cleaner future for people around the world.”

The mission follows the launch of B.C.’s new Trade Diversification Strategy on May 5, 2023. The strategy, which is a commitment in the StrongerBC Economic Plan, outlines actions to increase trade and investment opportunities in existing markets, such as Japan and the ROK, as well as in new and emerging markets, such as Vietnam and Singapore.

“The pandemic and global uncertainties have shown us that the deeper our trade relationships are with more countries, the stronger our province is,” said Brar. “By building strong ties with these countries, we’re supporting B.C. businesses, creating good jobs for British Columbians and strengthening the supply chains we all rely on for goods and services.”

Tandoori Chicken Fish PakoraChicken Tikka

Samosa Naan & Stuffed Naan Masala Dosa

Surjit Bhandal

David Eby. Photo: BC Government

THE NDP says that BC United MLA Renee Merrifield is once again amplifying harmful, anti-science views.

Merrifield retweeted a post by antivaccine conspiracy theorist Robert F. Kennedy Jr., claiming that journalists were “slavish government propagandists during Covid.”

Falcon must denounce MLA Merrifield’s attack on journalists: NDP Anti-racism roundtable brings voices together

NDP MLA Aman Singh called on BC United Leader Kevin Falcon to act.

“Yet again, Renee Merrifield is spreading harmful, anti-science views,” said Singh. “This is a direct attack on journalists who were doing their jobs during the pandemic and it’s completely unacceptable from an MLA. Kevin Falcon should denounce this immediately and ask her to retract and apologize.”

The NDP noted that this was just the latest in a long pattern of Merrifield spreading harmful views and misinformation.

According to it, Merrifield has:

* Amplified transphobic comments and defended Jordan Peterson, who is known for his transphobic and sexist views;

* Falsely claimed that taking Vitamin D would cure COVID;

* Courted the support of “freedom” convoy truckers during her leadership bid;

* Had to apologize for amplifying personal attacks on Dr. Bonnie Henry. Merrifield liked tweets that said:

- “She has little regard for the health & safety of BC’s vulnerable populations”

- “Schools/workplaces are being used to slowly spread the virus”

- “[Dix] just opens up his head, lets Bonnie pour in her BS of the week”

* Introduced a petition to the Legislature claiming masks cause “irreversible damage, emotionally, mentally and physically to children”;

* Told an anti-abortion group that as leader she would support restrictions on abortion and wouldn’t stop MLAs from introducing anti-abortion bills “save only in an election year.”

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MORE than 30 students, representatives of community organizations, and Indigenous and education partners participated in the fourth community roundtable on anti-racism in education to discuss the K-12 Anti-Racism Action Plan and work to address racism in education.

“We are striving to create an anti-racist education system where everyone feels represented, respected and hopeful for their future,” said Rachna Singh, Minister of Education and Child Care, on Tuesday. “Every student, regardless of race, ethnicity or faith deserves equal opportunities in our schools. We will continue to listen and learn from those with lived and living experiences of racism to guide our work and create inclusive school spaces.”

The roundtable included breakout sessions and opportunities for participants to share their stories and provide feedback. The agenda included school districts sharing antiracism initiatives and reflections for the next steps of the K-12 Anti-Racism Action Plan.

“We all deserve to live in a province where we have equal opportunities to thrive,” said Mable Elmore, Parliamentary Secretary for Anti-Racism Initiatives. “But racism and discrimination can harm even the youngest people and the impacts can last a lifetime. That’s why we’re working to address systemic racism and discrimination in schools, so that all young people can get the best possible start in life.”

The K-12 Anti-Racism Action Plan, released in January 2023, supports school districts in their commitment to have anti-racism initiatives in school communities. The aim of the action plan is to empower students and educators to identify and take action against racism and discrimination in B.C. schools by raising awareness and creating resources to improve the school experience for racialized students, staff and families. Singh attended the launch of the action plan in Kamloops with almost 200 secondary students who discussed how to better address racism in their schools.

Many school districts have already started anti-racism initiatives. Burnaby School District (SD41) co-hosted a provincewide event for Black Excellence Day with more than 32,000 people attending online and in person, while Surrey School District (SD36) held listening circles throughout the district for school communities to gather and share experiences with racism with more than 500 participants.

Over the past three years, the Province has held ongoing engagements and announced initiatives to address racism, such as developing the Anti-Racism Action Plan; introducing the Indigenous-focused graduation requirement; hosting the community roundtables on antiracism; supporting the Team Up to End Racism partnership with the BC Lions; developing a guide for educators to support teaching about anti-racism and diverse cultural histories; and hosting youth dialogue series.

Renee Merrifield

Rachna Singh

More than 250 rental homes underway in Vancouver

A new housing project is on the way in Vancouver that will provide 258 rental homes for families, seniors and individuals in the community.

“We’re taking action to help boost housing supply for people in Vancouver, and this new development adds much-needed stock at both market and affordable levels,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing, on Wednesday. “By creating rental housing in central locations close to major amenities, more people can stay in the community they know and love.”

Located at 2538 Birch Street, the residential tower will stand 28 storeys, making it one of the first tall rental buildings to be developed along the Broadway Corridor. It will offer a mix of studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom homes, with 58 below market units and 200 units designed to be affordable for households with middle incomes.

“These new homes will provide people with middle incomes, such as teachers, nurses and small business owners, with housing options to help them stay in their community,” said George Heyman, MLA for Vancouver-Fairview. “I’m grateful to our partners at the City of

Province supports enhanced services for restorative justice projects

THE Law Foundation of British Columbia will be working with government to develop a plan to distribute $3 million in new funding for restorative justice in B.C.

The Province says it is committed to promoting restorative justice solutions to help victims and offenders achieve better justice outcomes, rooted in accountability and collaboration.

“Government knows how important restorative justice can be to people’s healing from harm and injustice, both for the victim and the offender,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, on Wednesday.

“Restorative justice processes can have a positive impact on our communities by improving public safety, empowering local communities to build awareness of the root causes of crime and helping to reduce recidivism by holding offenders accountable for their actions in a meaningful way.”

In B.C., community-based restorative justice and restorative approaches are provided through more than 83 communitybased programs, including 52 community accountability programs and 31 Indigenous justice programs.

“Giving people the opportunity to take accountability for their crimes and make amends to their community can help reduce the cycle of incarceration,” said Niki Sharma, Attorney General. “By investing in restorative justice programs that encourage healing and support longlasting change, we can build a better justice system that works for more people.”

Jason Paterson, Executive Director of the Law Foundation of British Columbia, said: “Restorative justice processes can help repair harm in communities, increase safety, and help prevent future offences from occurring. They can increase meaningful access to the justice system for people whose voices are not always heard, including people who have been harmed, people who have committed harm, and their families and communities. The law foundation looks forward to working with the Province and key partners to help expand these programs in B.C.”

Additionally, government is continuing to take action at the provincial level to keep communities safe, including steps in the Safer Communities Action Plan to intervene early and expand supports for people at risk of interacting with police or entering the justice system.

If you or someone you know has been a victim of crime, call VictimLinkBC, a toll-free, confidential, multilingual telephone service available throughout B.C. and the Yukon 24 hours a day, seven days a week: 1 800 563-0808.

Vancouver and Jameson Development Corp. for helping us build more housing for people who love the city and are helping build its future.”

Other amenities will include commercial and office space, five levels of underground

parking for vehicles and bicycles, an outdoor playground, urban agriculture areas and a dedicated dog-washing station. The northwestern building façade will also feature a vertical tile mosaic designed by local Musqueam artist Debra Sparrow. Construction is expected to be completed in 2025.

“We’re excited to see yet another successful example of collaboration between Vancouver and the provincial government,” said Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim. “These new rental homes are another step in the right direction towards making housing more affordable and attainable in the city of Vancouver.”

The development is a partnership between the Province, through BC Housing’s HousingHub program, Jameson Development Corp. and the City of Vancouver. The Province is providing approximately $164 million in low-interest financing for the project, which will be repaid by Jameson Development Corp.

“Thanks to results-focused programs like these, our family is creating new, affordable rental homes for more families in Vancouver faster than if we were to do it on our own,” said Tony Pappajohn, President, Jameson

Development Corp. “We know how important these homes are and we look forward to welcoming our new neighbours when this project is complete. We’re also grateful to be working with Musqueam designer Debra Sparrow, whose vertical mosaic public art is a key feature of the building.”

HousingHub was created in 2018 and works with communities and non-profit and privatesector developers to increase the supply of rental housing and homeownership options for people in British Columbia with middle incomes. The Province does not directly fund HousingHub projects. Instead, the Province makes low-cost financing available to developers to build new housing. The developers commit to pass construction cost savings on to prospective tenants and homeowners through more affordable rents and ownership opportunities.

The project is part of a $19-billion housing investment by the B.C. government. Since 2017, the Province has delivered more than 76,000 new homes that have been completed or underway, including more than 13,000 homes in Vancouver.

Ravi Kahlon

Bee-Bots: Surrey Libraries’ newest loanable technology

SURREY Libraries on Monday announced that the launch of their newest Tech-To-Go collection item, Bee-Bot, will take place on June 12.

Bee-Bot is a simple programmable floor robot that can be used to help young children learn basic coding and computational thinking concepts.

“Bee-Bot is a really fun, and engaging, early literacy technology tool,” said Chloe Humphreys, Manager of Youth Services. “Not only do the robots teach pre-coding skills like sequencing, but young kids can take Bee-Bot on a scavenger hunt, navigate through mazes, experience open-ended play, and so much more.”

Bee-Bot is easy to use and is designed for children 3 to 6 years of age. The robot can be integrated into learning activities and skills such as literacy, numeracy, and spatial reasoning. No computers or tablets are needed to use the kit. Kids can press the buttons and watch Bee-Bot go.

Each Bee-Bot kit is equipped with a BeeBot robot, charging cable, command cards, and instruction booklet. Library patrons can go to the library catalogue to place holds now and pick the kits up at any of Surrey

Surrey and partners plant ‘living dyke’ on Mud Bay shoreline

Libraries’ ten branches, on or after June 12. Surrey Libraries’ Tech-To-Go collection features borrowable technology that improves access to technology for Surrey residents. Other items in the collection include Dash Robot kits, Elgato video capture digital converters, ION tape converters, energy meters, and Zoom Audio Recorders.

For more information about Bee-Bot kits, and Surrey Libraries’ complete Tech-To-Go collection, visit https://www.surreylibraries. ca/tech-go.

RISHI LAW CORPORATION

THE City of Surrey is leading the way in B.C. in testing an innovative, green approach to coastal flood protection known as a ‘living dyke’ with the Mud Bay Nature-based Foreshore Enhancements Project.

Surrey has partnered with the City of Delta and Semiahmoo First Nation on the project. Semiahmoo First Nation has been involved in the project since its inception and has played a key role in informing and guiding the project that is situated within their traditional foreshore territory.

The project is valued at $1.4 million and is funded in part by the Province of BC and the Government of Canada through the Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund.

Mud Bay is home to internationally recognized wildlife and unique habitats including mud flats, eelgrass beds and salt marshes. Salt marshes offer natural flood protection, improve water quality, store carbon, and support wildlife but are

in danger of disappearing due to coastal squeeze from sea level rise. The living dyke will be created by adding sediment and planting native salt marsh species on the foreshore. More marsh will be planted over time to help the natural marshes lining Boundary Bay adapt to sea level rise. The City will follow an adaptive management approach and monitor the site over time, making adjustments as needed.

Various stabilization techniques are being tested including sand berms, oyster shell bags, brushwood dams and rock berms to keep the vegetation in place. The results and lessons learned from the studies will be used to inform the design and construction of the full living dyke project in Surrey which will span 1 km. Construction of the full living dyke is anticipated to take place 2025-27 provided all permits are secured on time and studies are successful.

Learn more at surrey.ca/mudbay.

(L-R) Semiahmoo First Nation Councillor Joanne Charles, Surrey Councillor Mike Bose, Semiahmoo First Nation Chief Harley Chappell, Delta Mayor George Harvie, Surrey-Newton MP Sukh Dhaliwal, Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke and Surrey-Panorama MLA Jinny Sims. Photo: City of Surrey

Playing with Bee-Bot and blocks. Photo: Surrey Libraries

Surrey Council approves design contract for third sheet of ice in Cloverdale

Sport and Ice Complex

SURREY City Council on Monday approved a $1.68M contract increase for design services for a third sheet of ice for the Cloverdale Sport and Ice Complex that is currently under construction.

As part of the 2023 Five-Year (20232027) Financial Plan, the Cloverdale Sport and Ice Complex was increased from two National Hockey League-sized arena sheets to three.

Construction is underway on the first two ice sheets. Pile foundations are to be completed later this month followed by forming, rebar and concrete works, and installation of the prefabricated steel structure. It is anticipated that the two ice sheets will be ready for use in September 2024.

Construction of the third ice sheet is expected to commence in Fall 2025, following the completion of the lease agreement for the use of portions of the Cloverdale Fairgrounds for film production purposes. With construction of the third sheet commencing in Fall 2025, it is expected that the third sheet will be ready for use in Summer 2027.

Along with new ice sheets, the project includes seating for 200 spectators per sheet, multi-purpose and community rooms, change rooms and other amenities. The new sports and recreation facility has been designed to be energy efficient and meet the highest standards for accessibility. When opened, the new ice sheets will offer various programs including ice hockey, figure skating, public lessons, skating sessions, and dry-floor summer use for sports such as lacrosse and ball hockey.

The Cloverdale Sport and Ice Complex will be located at 6336 177B Street.

CGI Vancouver: International Day of Yoga on June 24

ThE Consulate General of India in Vancouver invites all to participate in a yoga session to celebrate the International Day of Yoga 2023 (IDY2023) on June 24 at David Lam Park in Vancouver from 8:30 a.m. to 10: 30 a.m.

You can register on the link below for participation and to know more about the yoga event: https://www.eventcreate. com/e/idy-2023/

Registration is free. Bring your own yoga mat and join in.

Annual Fiji Festival

ThiS Festival – established in 1999 – is for all families ranging from children to seniors. The Fiji Festival also features traditional Fijian ceremonies such as the yagona ceremonies, Polynesian dancers, Melanesian dancers, meke dancers, Hawaiian dancers, bhangra dancers and other ethnic dancers, folk songs, classical Indian songs, live bands and fashion show. Admission is free for all. This year’s festival will take place at Swangard Stadium, Burnaby, on July 16.

Car Free Day in Surrey: 137 Street closure on Saturday, June 10

CAR Free Day returns June 10, taking over 137 Street between 72A Avenue and 74 Avenue and transforming the street into a pedestrian paradise with multiple stages, artisan vendors, local merchants and family friendly fun, says Newton Business

EVENTS

Improvement Association. This event will celebrate the businesses with storefronts on 137 Street with extended patios and booths, in addition to multiple activities for people to take part in on Saturday, June 10 between noon and 8 p.m.

This is a free community festival free of cars, promoting active transportation, focused on families and the promotion of local business.

Event Features:

* Live Entertainment

* Family Entertainment and Activities

* Vendor Market

* Food Pavilions

Date: Saturday, June 10

Time: 12 p.m.-8 p.m.

Location: On 137 Street between 72A Avenue and 74 Avenue

Cost: Free admission for everyone

Rain or shine event

Concord Pacific Dragon Boat Festival

ThE 2023 Concord Pacific Dragon Boat Festival is gearing up to welcome 100,000 visitors and racers to celebrate its 35th anniversary on June 24 and 25 at Concord Pacific Place, Creekside Park, and False Creek.

Music performances by a 100% local lineup on the TD Main Stage, cultural exhibitions, an expanded food truck and craft market lineup, and 35th anniversary surprises will add to the excitement at the continent’s flagship dragon boat festival. All events are free and open to the public. Races start at 9 a.m. on June 24 to qualify and rank for Sunday’s semi-finals and finals. Races end at 6 p.m. each day.

The Concord Pacific Champion Race Series on June 24 at noon features top teams racing in head-to-head 100 metre sprint knockout rounds in the: International Cup, 24U Cup, Senior Cup, Breast Cancer

Cup, Pride Cup, and Para Cup. Capping off each day of racing, the world’s largest 2K time trial circuit takes to the water with up to 18 boats racing each other in an endurance race.

Fore more details, please visit our website voiceonline.com.

South Asian Adults & Seniors Programs

* Yoga classes in person for members only at Shanti Niketan Hall at Lakshmi Narayan Temple, 8321 140 Street in Surrey conducted by yoga instructor Ashwini Bansal on every Monday and every Thursday from 10 to 11:15 a.m. on both days. 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. Please contact Surendra Handa Coordinator, Vedic Seniors Parivar Centre, at 604-507-9945 for registration and further information.

* Vedic Seniors Parivar Centre of Vedic Hindu Cultural Society of BC invites all South Asian adults and seniors to play Bingo on Sunday, June 11 from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at Shanti Niketan Hall.

* Sunday, June 18: Father’s Day celebration in the main hall of Lakshmi Narayan Temple from 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.

* Wednesday, June 21: International Yoga Day at Lakshmi Narayan Temple Grounds at 6 p.m. Bring your yoga mat with you. Pure vegetarian dinner will be served in the dining hall of the Temple at 7:30 p.m.

Photo: Newton BIA

Ford partners with Tesla give customers access to EV Superchargers

Review by Veeno Dewan

FORD electric vehicle owners will soon gain access to Tesla’s huge EV Supercharging network, according to the CEOs of both companies.

Beginning next year, Ford EV owners in the United States and Canada can use the Ford’s mobile app to use Tesla’s 12,000 Supercharger stations — Tesla’s name for its proprietary fast charging stations.

The partnership was recently announced by Ford (F) CEO Jim Farley and Tesla (TSLA) CEO Elon Musk on Twitter. Musk is also the CEO and owner of Twitter. “I have a tremendous amount of respect for Ford as a company, and it makes great vehicles. This is something we’re super happy to support,” Musk said during the livestream.

minutes. Farley said Ford had about 10,000 fast chargers and that the agreement with Tesla will double that.

Ford its next generation. EVs would be made with Tesla-style charging ports rather than the current CCS chargers used by most other EV makers. Existing Ford electric vehicles will use an adapter to access Tesla’s Superchargers.

In November 2022 , Musk invited other EV makers to build vehicles using Tesla charging ports. Ford is the first major automaker to take Musk up on the offer. Auto Industry analyst say one of the biggest issues for EV owners or would be EV owners is the lack of a charging infrastructure, given the vast distances in the U.S and Canada. ,Tesla’s charging network, which is one of the largest in North America, but its proprietary charging

Volvo Car Canada announces 2024 line-up: EVs and increased range

Ford CEO Jim Farley told CNBC news Tesla’s Superchargers could become the standard for EV charging in the United States, So far access to charging stations is considered one of the main hurdles so far to broader acceptance of electric vehicles, analysts have said.

Since 2012, Tesla has developed and deployed its own high-speed vehicle charger, called Supercharger, which can add up to 322 miles (518 km) of range in just 15

charger and socket was exclusive only to Tesla owners and non compatible with other EV vehicles. On-Tesla EVs currently need an adapter for its plug to work with universal charging connectors,

Ford announced that in 2025, its EVs will come with the North American Charging Standard (NACS) port built in. That makes it possible for Ford’s electric vehicles to use Tesla Superchargers without the need for an adapter.

Review by Veeno Dewan

RICHMOND HILL, ON - The fully electric Volvo C40 Recharge and XC40 Recharge models have been updated for the 2024 model year to offer increased range. Range improvements come thanks to two new powertrains offered on both the C40 Recharge and XC40 Recharge.

The addition of rear-wheel drive variants – the first time Volvo Car Canada is offering a fully-electric rear wheel drive product –provide improved range while maintaining the safety and secure driving dynamics typical of Volvo cars.

Another first for Volvo Cars is that the second-generation permanent magnet electric motor driving the rear axles for the fully electric C40 and XC40 models has been developed in-house at Volvo Cars.

The new Single Motor C40 Recharge and XC40 Recharge feature a powerful 185 kW (248 hp) permanent magnet e-motor on the rear axle and an 82kWh battery pack. This combination of a more energy-dense battery and efficient motor allows the C40 Recharge and XC40 Recharge to achieve up to 477 and 471 kms of range, respectively on the combined EPA test cycle (USA EPA Estimate, final certification pending).

Charging power has improved as the

uprated 82 kWh battery pack allows for charging at a top rate of 200 kW DC. Charging the car from 10-80 percent state-of-charge takes approximately 28 minutes.

The Twin Motor all-wheel drive variants also benefit from these updates, providing them with additional range.

The previous set-up of two 150 kW electric motors on both front and rear axles has been replaced by our in-house developed 255 hp electric motor on the rear axle and a new 147 hp asynchronous electric motor on the front axle.

As the asynchronous motor does not require a constant electrical charge, the Twin Motor conserves energy by engaging the front-axle drive only when it’s needed –contributing to the improvements in range.

The Twin Motor variants of the C40 Recharge and XC40 Recharge retain the 78kWh battery pack with a top charging rate of 150 kW DC. This means the XC40 Recharge Twin Motor AWD can now drive up to 408 kms, a 49km boost over the previous iteration. The range of the C40 Recharge Twin Motor has improved up to 413 kms from 364 kms (USA EPA Estimate, final certification pending).

The 2024 Volvo lineup is set to start production and will begin to arrive at Canadian Volvo retailers throughout early fall.

2023 Honda PilotAll New This year!

Kia Canada advances Canadians’ EV education

Review by Veeno Dewan

TORONTO -- Continuing to showcase its commitment to electrification through its Plan S strategy, Kia Canada has unveiled its second Electric Vehicle Inspiration Centre (EVIC) in the country. Designed to inspire and educate the public on Kia’s electrified vehicles, the Electric Vehicle Inspiration Centres are a place to educate and engage the public on making the switch to an electric vehicle with the help of specialized EV advisors, and test drive vehicles.

a dealer group which includes Kia Québec, Kia Ste-Foy, and Kia Val-Belair dealerships.

At both locations (BC or Québec), visitors can book an interactive tour and will be guided through the facilities by an eVisor - an experienced EV educator.

Guests will learn about: the benefits of electric vehicles, The different types of electric vehicles, An orientation on EV chargers and the charging speed offered by each level

Review by Veeno Dewan

The largest and most powerful SUV in Honda history, the all-new 2023 Honda Pilot is the ultimate family SUV with rugged new styling, more passenger and cargo space, and a class-leading combination of off-road capability and confidence-inspiring on-road dynamics. Building on this strong foundation, the all-new Pilot TrailSport is the most offroad capable Honda SUV ever, with special off-road features including an off-road tuned suspension, increased ground clearance, all-terrain tires, robust steel skid plates and expanded all-wheel drive system capabilities.

The fourth-generation Pilot is available in six trim levels: LX, Sport, EX-L, TrailSport, Touring, and the top-of-the-line Elite— the most luxurious and upscale Pilot ever with sophisticated materials and premium touches. The Pilot is also available with twowheel drive or with the latest generation of Honda’s award-winning torque vectoring i-VTM4™ all-wheel drive system, now with faster response and greater torque capacity.

Based on Honda’s new light truck architecture, Pilot features a longer wheelbase and wider tracks. Retuned MacPherson struts in front and an allnew rear multilink suspension for more precise handling. Pilot’s new cabin features Honda’s updated infotainment systems and improved user experience. Standard features include a digital instrument display, a 7-inch touchscreen audio system with Apple

CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility and multiple USB charging ports for the driver and passengers. Pilot Elite gets an allnew configurable 10.2-inch digital instrument display system paired with a color head-up display.

A larger 9-inch color touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility is standard on EX-L trims and above, with Touring and Elite models featuring a 12-speaker Bose premium audio system.

Honda’s most powerful V6 ever, an all-new dual overhead cam (DOHC) 3.5-liter engine producing 285 horsepower, is paired with Pilot’s first 10-speed automatic transmission. Refined and responsive, the new automatic transmission has been tuned exclusively for Pilot. Paddle shifters are standard for manual control, making Pilot more fun to drive.

Pilot also introduces the second generation of Honda’s torque vectoring i-VTM4™ allwheel drive system, which features a stronger rear differential that can handle 40% more torque and provides 30% faster response, optimizing traction in all driving scenarios, especially slick conditions and off-road.

Standard class-leading safety features include a new and improved suite of Honda Sensing® safety and driver-assistive technology with a new wide-view camera and radar, a next-generation front passenger airbag, improved front side airbags and new driver and front-passenger knee airbags. The new Honda Pilot arrives this summer 2023.

The brand’s first EVIC opened its doors to the public in Vancouver in 2021. This

How to navigate public charging networks: The history and future of mobility technology, and the Associated savings of owning an EV, including available government incentives.

newest facility, owned by La Force Kia Group in Québec City hosted local media and dignitaries to mark its official grand opening last evening.

“Kia understands the importance of educating the public when it comes to electric vehicles,” says Elias El-Achhab, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Kia Canada. “These centres are designed to be a place where the public can test our different types of electric vehicles, while learning about charging infrastructure, government incentives and the savings associated with EV ownership. It truly is a place where the public can learn about the EV lifestyle in a relaxed environment.”

The Québec EVIC is a collaboration between Kia Canada and La Force Kia Group,

The tours conclude with an opportunity to test drive a Kia EV.

Currently the brand offers five electrified models including the EV6, Niro EV/PHEV, Soul EV as well as the Sportage and Sorento PHEV. The EV9, Kia’s all-new fully electric three-row SUV is expected to be available later this year.

“Kia Canada is introducing seven all-new plug-in hybrid or dedicated electric models by 2025, and with greater choice comes greater opportunity for learning,” continues El-Achhab. “Kia is committed to an electric future and that includes inspiring consumers to make the shift.”

Vancouver’s Electric Inspiration Centre is located at 1778 W 8th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V6J 4T3 and tours with eVisors are available seven days a week.

MATRIMONIAL & PERSONALS

Phone: 604-502-6100

Fax: 604-501-6111

Email: voiceclassified@gmail.com

married. Girl should be from a respected family, Canadian Citizen/PR from Surrey/Vancouver region, tall, educated, respectful to elders, and loving towards the family members. For more information contact 604-729-8123.

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Sikh Family looking a suitable match for their handsom, 29 old years old son, 5;10”, well settled in a government job. Girl should be a Canadian PR or citizenship. Work permit will also be considered. Caste no bar. Please contact 604-562-4473.

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Seeking a girl for Canadian citizen 35, 5’10 handsome Sikh boy. Post graduated and well settled in his career. Girl should be well educated, 5’3” plus, family-oriented. Caste no bar. Please contact: 7789680771

Ramdasia Sikh Mehton family seeks a suitable match for their son, 29 yr., 5-11 tall, post graduated, handsome, non-smoker, non drinker from an educated family working as sale manager in India. The girl should be Canadian citizen /PR / work permit, educated and beautiful. Sister with family is well settled in Canada. Contact: 6045056176 or write2rkj@gmail.com. *********

A Saraswat brahim Canadian citizen 27 year old living in Port Coquitlam, BC is looking for a decent girl. Boy is working as appliances technician. Horoscope 12 December 1995, Time 10:35am, 5 ft 9 in, POB Ludhiana. Contact : 6049997125.

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Seeking a beautiful girl for a Ramgarhia boy, Canadian Citizen, brought up in India, 36, 5’11”, commercial pilot, based in Vancouver, never

GdTl-8/7

Sharma, Canadian citizen 48 years old, 6 feet, divorced man looking for a girl for marriage. Divorced, window with kids welcome. On work permit and visitors ard also welcom. cast no bar. Cell no: 778-957-1670

Belong to Hindu Punjabi Khatri family, Canadian Citizen, 37 years old, residing in Vancouver, B.Tech/ MBA, Self employed, looking for an educated girl who is in Canada on tourist visa, work visa or PR. Upper Caste no bar. Call for more infoPh: 306-502-6789 GdTl-24/6

Well settled Jat Sikh family looking for suitable match for their handsome, 24 year old, 6’ tall Canadian born son. BBA in Accounting. Working with reputable firm, 2nd year CPA. Girl should be Canadian born, no less than 5’6”, beautiful and family oriented. For more info call 778 895-6866

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Suitable match wanted for an Australian Khatri Sikh boy, 35 years, 6’2”, clean shaven, very handsome, health professional, handsome salary, down to earth, never married, looking for a simple, humble, family-oriented girl, caste no bar. Please contact at 778-919-7948 or kamaljit10@hotmail.ca

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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. Contact 925-2006838 (whatsapp) Email: manish_22us@yahoo.com

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Tonk Kashatriya Hindu Family seeking a suitable match for their daughter, 44 years old, innocently divorced, 5’7”, well educated. Boy should be well educated and family oriented. Caste no bar. For more information, please call 604-760-3129

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Sikh Family looking for a suitable match for their Canadian born, good looking girl. Age 29, and 5’7” tall. Boy should be Canadian Citizen and able to speak good English as well. Call 7782226692.

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Looking for educated working professional as suitable match for well educated Hindu female (‘81 Canadian born, never married) working with government. Caste no bar. Connect at m23vancouver@gmail.com

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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.

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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 more information call: 604-319-0662

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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

Jat Sikh family looking a suitable match for their daughter 29 years old, 5,4”, PR applied. Education : MA Pol Sci, B. Ed diploma in early childhood education, working as registered early childhood education. Boy should be educated, Canadian Citizen, PR or PR applied. Please Call for more infoWhatsApp: 011-91-9876497111 or Phone : 604-817-3276.

PERSONAL

40’s good looking male, searching for a female friend. I am fit and attractive, workout and love music. Discretion assured and respected. Call : 604-618-2820

NO way to treat a lady.

Savvy movie fans will know that was a dangerous Rod Steiger movie from the 1960s. Modern mayhem is on tap when an already “dangerous” somewhat deranged woman goes over the edge - or is pushed to the limit in the michievous The Wrath of Becky. Presented by Taro PR and Quiver Distribution this chiller of a thriller is definitely freaking folks out at Cineplex Cinemas and Landmark

Theatres around B.C. Beware of the past. A troubled childhood comes back to haunt Becky big time.

Lost on so many fronts Lulu Wilson sizzles as a misguided young girl with painful memories and a grudge to settle. She seems to be playing the one against the world card. After a violent attack Becky strives to fit in. But when an uncomfortable run-in turns traumatic bullying takes on a whole new meaning.

Animal lovers may be sympathetic to Becky’s plight when a friend is victimized turning an already on the edge girl to an avenging angel. Heaven help anyone standing in her way. Kind of reminds one of Keanu Reeve’s debut in the unforgettable John Wick - though this time with a

decidedly female twist. Smart writing and a Unique way to exact sweet revenge makes The Wrath of Becky a startling thriller. Let the games begin. And the blood flow freely though not so willingly. For more reviews please check out my website moviereviewssite.com

I, Arshdeep Singh, Son of Didar Singh, holder of Indian Passport No. P0210332, issued at Jalandhar, on 07/July, 2016, permanent resident of VPO. Bhandal, Teh.&Distt. Gurdaspur, and presently residing at 8011 153A St, Surrey, BC, V3S7X7, Canada, do hereby change my name from Arshdeep Singh to Malhi Arshdeep Singh, with immediate effect.

Name : BOSIAKO, Kwabena

Age : 22

Height : 5’11"

Weight : 186 lbs

Hair : Black Eyes : Brown Wanted for : Multiple counts of robbery using an unauthorized firearm, discharging a firearm with intent and flight from police.

Name : PREIBE, Tyler

Age : 29

Height : 5’10"

Weight : 166 lbs

Hair : Brown

Eyes : Blue

Wanted for : Fail to Comply with Probation Order

from the victim, as they believed the victim’s dog injured the suspect’s dog. Police believe that the suspect may have sought medical treatment for their dog at a local veterinarian clinic.

Unsolved Crime: Assault

Date: June 6, 2023

Location: Coquitlam, B.C

The 39-year-old victim suffered minor injuries. Victim services is engaged. The suspect can be described as: 30-35 years old; Dark brown or black hair; Dark eyes; Facial hair; 6’2 to 6’4 tall; Medium build; The suspect man was wearing a blue jacket and plaid shirt while accompanied by a German shepherd dog that went by the name Milo. We are appealing to anyone who may have been in or around Burns Park located at 802 Edgar Avenue in Coquitlam between 1:30 to 2:30 pm on Tuesday, April 11, 2023, who witnessed or have information to contact our investigators, said Corporal Alexa Hodgins of Coquitlam RCMP. Police are seeking anyone who may have dash-cam, cellphone or video surveillance of the incident to contact the Coquitlam RCMP at 604-945-1550.

New Online Course Explores Suspicious Transactions in the Real Estate Sector

IN the first quarter of 2023, the BCREA Commercial Leading Indicator (CLI) held steady at 148, while the six-month moving average continued its downward trajectory to 149. Compared to the same quarter in 2022, the index was down by 5 per cent.

BCREA has released a new self-paced online course titled The REALTOR®’s Guide to Suspicious Transactions. While BCREA has other courses on FINTRAC compliance, this is the only course that specifically focuses on ways to identify suspicious indicators of money laundering and terrorist financing in real estate.

In The REALTOR®’s Guide to Suspicious Transactions course, REALTORS® will gain practical knowledge of suspicious indicators (red flags) in real estate related to money laundering, terrorist financing, and fraud. This course introduces the four most common fraud types in real estate to enhance REALTORS®’ understanding of why fraud occurs in real estate and how it can be identified. The course also explains how money laundering occurs and what constitutes reasonable grounds to suspect, which is the minimum threshold for reporting a transaction to FINTRAC.

Given suspicious transaction reporting in the real estate sector is quite low across Canada, this course is designed to enhance compliance and help REALTORS® protect their clients and brokerages as well as safeguard their communities.

The REALTOR®’s Guide to Suspicious

Transactions is worth two accredited PDP hours. This scenario-based course contains videos, infographics, images, handouts, and worksheets to increase learning. Upon completion, learners will be able to:

* notice consumer and client behavioural indicators, consumer and client financial indicators, transaction indicators, and licensee-related indicators of money laundering and terrorist financing, and * properly document their suspicions and collect the information required to file a Suspicious Transaction Report.

The primary goal of this course is to provide REALTORS® with accessible and practical education on how to detect the most common red flags of money laundering and terrorist financing in their day-to-day practice.

Additional Resources:

Courses

FINTRAC for REALTORS®: Understanding

Canada’s Anti-Money Laundering Laws (3 hours)

Mastering Compliance

2.0: Anti-Money Laundering Training for Brokers (9 hours)

Articles : BCREA also has several articles on identifying and reporting suspicious transactions that can be helpful.

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*Subjec ttocreditapproval.Conditionsandrestrictionsapply. CIBCreser vesthe right to amendorterminateany oralloftheproducts, servicesorassociatedoffers,includingpricingorinterest ratesatanytimeandwithoutadvance notice, unlessotherwise requiredbylaw,regulationoragreement.Physician &Surgeon/Dental/Optometryprac tisingprofessionalsmustberegisteredwiththeirrespectiveprovincialprac ticeregulator ybodies,subjec ttoconditions andrestrictions. †ThisLimitedtimecashbackofferisvaliduntil April 30,2022basedonapplication date and available for mor tgageloans for rsttimehomebuyers,mor tgage loans fornewpurchase,ormortgageloans that are transferred to CIBCfromanother nancialinstitution.Mortgageloansmustbefundedwithin120daysofapplicationdate. Mortgageloanmusthave aprincipal amount of$100,000ormore, andbeeither aCIBCFixed-RateClosed Mortgageloanwith atermof4yearsormoreora 5-yearCIBCVariable Flex Mortgageloan.A personalCIBCchequingaccountfromwhichpre-authorizedmor tgagepaymentsare madeis required.Qualifyingclientswill receive$3,000 on amor tgage loanamountof$750,000ormore, $2,000ona mortgageloanof$500,000-749,999,$1,200ona mor tgageloanof$300,000-$499,999,or$1,000on amor tgageloanof$100,000-$299,999.Cashbackwillbedeposited inthepersonalCIBCchequing account6-8weeks afterfunding.Other conditionsandrestrictionsapply. Askusfordetails.CashbackofferendsApril30,2022. Offerissubjec ttocreditapprovalandmaybechangedor withdrawnatany time, without notice. If youhaveaneligiblehigh ratio mor tgage, youmay alsoqualify foraspeciallowrate. Talk to us to ndouthow. TheCIBClogoisatrademarkofCIBC.C0031206/21

The Health Consequences of Cats

DOG lovers may want to skip this week’s commentary. For cat lovers, too, this column may prove a disappointment. A health risk assessment of household cats might be all you need to recommit to a dog.

Cats are the darlings of the Internet. And that may be the safest way to enjoy them.

There can be no doubt that cats provide crucial companionship for many people. Their entertainment powers rival dogs. But here are a few thoughts on the ways cats can have an impact on human health.

First, the killer instinct of cats has a startling effect on biodiversity. About a decade ago, the journal Nature published a study that estimated domestic cats kill 1.3–4.0 billion birds and 6.3–22.3 billion mammals annually! More recently, in Australia, a study found that the hunting success of feral cats, especially in areas affected by wildfires, has contributed to the collapse in population of small mammal species.

While charming household cats may not be successful in killing larger prey, that doesn’t stop them from trying. It’s amazing to learn that nearly half of house cats have physically attacked their owners!

Most of these incidents are not serious. But when provoked, cats know to direct their sharp teeth and claws to the face of their victims. These are the injuries that result in emergency room visits.

What are some of the other perils of living with cats? Numerous diseases can be transmitted by cats, including bacterial infections. The cats usually become infected by eating contaminated raw meat. Humans touching these cats, their food, toys or bedding – and especially in handling cat poop – neglect to wash their hands. Salmonella can be caught this way.

Other bacterial infections can be caused by flea bites or fights with other infected cats. Cat scratch disease, for example, can be transmitted to humans by the lick of a cat. It’s normally not serious, but infection can lead to fever, eye infection, and more severe symptoms in children and people with weakened immune systems.

Hookworms are another concern. These tiny worms are found in cat feces and in the soil and sand used by infected cats. Humans walking barefoot in contaminated areas can pick up the worms. The larvae penetrate the skin causing red, raised tracks that are very itchy. Fortunately, the worms can’t survive in their human host, so the problem goes away

Accused pleads guilty to sexual interference against youth victims

IN May 2021, the New Westminster Police Department Major Crime Unit began an investigation into sex-related offences against youth victims. Investigators identified a total of three victims who were allegedly exploited by the same person.

On June 6, 2023, Marcio Leite Cerquinho pled guilty to two counts of sexual interference.

“The New Westminster Police Department Victim Assistance Unit is always available to those who come forward to tell their story,” said Media Relations Officer Sgt. Andrew Leaver. “We take sexual offence investigations extremely seriously and we will leave no stone unturned to ensure that suspects who engage in these types of crimes are held to account before our justice system.”

Cerquinho will be sentenced in November 2023.

without treatment within a few weeks most of the time.

Ringworm is an infection caused by fungus spread by touching an infected animal. Roundworm is a parasitic disease transmitted by swallowing the eggs, something children can easily do when playing in sandboxes and then not washing their hands.

Thanks to laws requiring vaccination, rabies in cats is rare. But watch out for feral cats that may have come in contact with

infected wildlife.

Toxoplasmosis may be the greatest concern. It’s caused by a parasite found in soil, water, meat, or poop from an infected cat. Most commonly, people become infected when they do not wash their hands after cleaning a cat’s litterbox. There can be serious health consequences for people with weakened immune systems, including neurological disease. Pregnant women need to stay away from the litterbox and any other areas exposed to cat poop due to the risk of birth defects associated with toxoplasmosis. With such a disparaging commentary on cats, we are certain to receive a ton of reader mail reminding us about dog attacks, dog-borne diseases, and other dog drama. But long-time readers will know that for us, there is no contest.

Sign-up at www.docgiff.com to receive our weekly e-newsletter. For comments, contactus@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.