Indo-Canadian Voice Main - Nov 12 2022

However,

CONTINUED ON 2

Surrey Police Service officers sign pledge opposing Mayor Brenda Locke’s plan

SURREY Mayor Brenda Locke’s hope for “many of the Surrey Police Service officers to work for the RCMP” has been dashed by the release of a pledge signed by an overwhelming number of Surrey Police Union (SPU) member officers.

In a November 9 interview with the Vancouver Sun, Locke claimed that SPU officers and civilian staff “would be cared for” through a plan she is allegedly working out with the Surrey RCMP.

This approach, however, flies in the face of 275 of 293 SPU frontline officers who have signed a pledge containing the following emphatic statement:

“I declare that if the Surrey Police Service ceases to exist, I have no intention to apply to nor join any RCMP detachment as my next career move.”

The Mayor’s comments demonstrate the disconnect that continues to exist between City Hall politics and those who joined the Surrey Police Service to serve all Surrey residents, according to SPU President Rick Stewart.

“Our officers have voluntarily

signed this declaration because of a number of specific reasons related to the RCMP, and as such, Mayor Locke’s hiring plan shows no regard for the will of our members,” asserted Stewart.

“The attraction of working for a Surrey-based municipal police force remains as one of the main factors behind our successful recruitment thus far.”

In addition, Locke’s interview also brought forth the possibility of placement of SPU officers “somewhere in an RCMP jurisdiction”

“SPU remains focused on upholding community public safety as part of our everexpanding integration across Surrey,” added Stewart. “If Mayor Locke truly wants to take a people-centric approach to policing, we remain open to collaboration, transparency and accountability in support of the best interests of Surrey residents.”

that isn’t Surrey. Once again, the local aspect of policing remains as members’ number one motivation in wanting to remain working for the SPS, said the SPU.

94% of Surrey Police Union members declare “no intention” of joining RCMP

Surrey Police Service Chief Constable Norm Lipinski and Surrey Police Union President Staff-Sgt. Rick Stewart. Photo: SPS

NEW Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke on Monday tried to end the “uncertainty” of which police force to have in the city by asserting that the RCMP would remain in Surrey.

the truth is that that is anything but realistic.

Locke and the new councillors — Linda Annis and Mike Bose (Surrey First); Harry Bains, Gordon

New Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke still thinks she can keep the RCMP in Surrey – but what is the reality?

Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke.

Photo by Sukhwant Dhillon/AM 600 Sher-E-Punjab Radio

The annual Sikh Remembrance Day ceremony was held on Sunday, November 6 at the military grave of Canadian World War I hero, Private Buckam Singh, in Kitchener, Ontario.

Kuldip Singh Thandi’s slate wins Vancouver’s Khalsa Diwan Society election

about 5,200 valid votes.

Thandi

The

Surrey man’s wife just couldn’t believe he had won $1 million from Lotto Max draw

KANWAR Kapoor had to take his wife to a retailer to check the ticket at a self-scanner to con vince her that he had indeed won a whopping Maxmillions prize of $1 million from the October 18 Lotto Max draw.

“I was most excited to tell my wife, she thought I was joking and didn’t believe me,” recalled

the Surrey resident. “So, I took her with me to validate it again and showed her the total.”

Kapoor first learned he won af ter validating his ticket using the self-scanner at a Petro Canada, and after had the retailer there validate his ticket, according to a BCLC press release.

He plans on setting aside some

of his winnings for his children’s education.

On how it feels to win $1 million?

“This win will give me a bit of cushion and a sense of security.”

The winning ticket was pur chased at Canco on Lougheed Highway in Deroche.

Kanwar Kapoor

Photo: BCLC

The Province has no appetite to keep switching police forces every time a new mayor comes in

CONTINUED FROM 1

Hepner, Rob Stutt and Pard eep Kooner (Surrey Con nect); and Doug Elford and Mandeep Nagra (Safe Sur rey Coalition) – were sworn in on Monday evening at Surrey City Hall by Judge Valli Chettiar.

Solicitor General Mike Farn worth has made it clear that he wants to see a clear plan from Locke about reversing the ongoing transition to the

Surrey Police Service (SPS) before he gives his approval. He has also pointed out the huge expense that will be incurred if the transition is reversed.

And that is where the prob lem lies. The SPS now has 352 employees, with 298 sworn police officers and 54 civilians. And Locke has demonstrated amazing lack of understanding by assum ing that all these employees will somehow just go away!

The fact is that the City will have to fork out more than $100 million in compensa tion and face any amount of lawsuits.

The Province, as any insider will tell you, has no appetite to keep switching police forces every time a new mayor comes in. And Locke will learn that the hard way. The ruling NDP and the BC Liberal Party know that any reversing of the ongoing transition will anger the ma

jority of South Asians who wholeheartedly support the SPS. In fact, in the last pro vincial election the BC Lib erals lost a seat in Surrey for opposing the SPS.

Also, the fact remains that Locke got only 28 per cent of the total vote in the mu nicipal election and won by less than 1,000 votes in spite of making the policing issue her main plank and being the only candidate to get the endorsement of ‘Keep

the RCMP in Surrey group’. What does that tell you?

Former mayor Doug Mc Callum won the election in 2018 with 45,564 votes — 41.08% of the total votes — while Locke won with only 33,311 votes — 28.14% of the total votes. That means that ONLY 33,311 Surrey-ites were passionate enough about the RCMP to vote for Locke!

You don’t have to be a rock et scientist to figure that out.

THE moderate slate of President Kuldip Singh Thandi easily won Vancou ver’s Khalsa Diwan Soci ety election on November 5 with a huge margin of about 2,000 votes out of

himself bagged 3,541 votes.

winning slate in cluded Mohan Singh Gill (Senior Vice President), Jagdeep Singh Sanghera

(Vice President), Kashmir Singh Dhaliwal (General Secretary), Jarnail Singh Bhandal (Assistant General Secretary), Joginder Singh Sunner (Recording Sec retary), Harsimran Singh

Aujla (Assistant Recording Secretary), Sukhpaul Singh Jhooty (Treasurer), Bhu pinder Singh Nijjar (Senior Assistant Treasurer), Gur deep Singh Hayer (Assis tant Secretary), and mem

bers Inderjit Kaur Uppal, Raghbir Singh Kular, Jarnail Singh, Gurdial Singh Gadey and Kulbir Singh Chhokar.

Photos by SUKHWANT DHILLON / AM 600 Sher-E-Punjab Radio

Annual Sikh Remembrance Day Ceremony honours Canadian Veterans

KITCHENER, Ontario: The annual Sikh Remembrance Day ceremony was held on Sunday, November 6 at the military grave of Canadian World War I hero, Private Buckam Singh, in Kitchener, Ontario, with over 200 people attending.

It is the only military grave in Canada of a Sikh soldier from the World Wars, and the ceremony is the largest annual gatherings of Sikh soldiers and veterans in North America.

“Sikhs have a long tradition of military service,” said Sandeep Singh Brar, Curator of SikhMuseum. com and the chief organizer of the annual event. “The Sikh community has organized this Remembrance Ceremony every year at the historic location of Private Buckam Singh’s military grave to remember the 117,000 Canadian soldiers, like Private Singh, that have died since we became a nation and the 83,000 Sikh soldiers of the British Indian Army that died fighting along their Canadian comrades in two World Wars.”

This year’s program featured youth from the community participating in the ceremony as well as students from the new Private Buckam Singh Public School in Brampton that opened its doors last year.

The ceremony, now in its 15th year, was attended by members of the Canadian Armed Forces, Police Services across Ontario, Royal Canadian Legion members, veterans and elected officials from federal, provincial and municipal governments.

Info and photos to The VOICE: SikhMuseum.com

VANCOUVER’S Mayor Ken Sim and the 10 members of Council – Councillors Re becca Bligh, Christine Boyle, Adriane Carr, Lisa Dominato, Pete Fry, Sarah Kirby-Yung, Mike Klassen, Peter Meiszner, Brian Mon tague and Lenny Zhou – were sworn in on Monday.

The Mayor and Council were elected in October and will serve a four-year term from 2022 to 2026.

Judge Derek Mah of the B.C. Provincial Court administered the oaths of office at the Orpheum theatre in Vancouver. The event’s master of ceremonies was Ray

mond Louie, five-term Vancouver City Councillor and a former Vancouver School Board Trustee.

In attendance were Councillor Allyson Fra ser, Musqueam Indian Band; Khelsilem, Council Chairperson, Squamish Nation; Councillor Dennis Thomas Whonaok, Tsleil-Waututh Nation; Deacon Richard Chau, representing Archbishop Michael Miller, Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Van couver; Rev. Beth Hayward, Lead Minister, Canadian Memorial United Church; Rabbi Dan Moskovitz, Senior Rabbi of Temple Sholom; Head Granthi Giani Harminder

Pal Singh, Khalsa Diwan Society Ross Sikh Temple; and Tariq Tyab, Muslim Commu nity Representative, Al Jamia Al Masjid Van couver and the BC Muslim Association.

The event included the Vancouver Police Department and Vancouver Fire Rescue Services Honour Guard led by Departmen tal Sergeant Major Ray Gardner and Pipe Major Cal Davis, as well as performances by Andrew Greenwood and the Vancou ver Fire Rescue Services Band, and the Vancouver Police Department Lion Dance Team

Three South Asians charged with aggravated assault in Whistler stabbing

THREE South Asians from Delta, Surrey and Vancouver have been charged in connection to a stabbing incident in Whistler last March.

On March 20 at about 4:30 a.m., Whistler RCMP responded to a report of an altercation involving a knife in the 4300-block of Lorimer Road. Upon arrival, police learned that two men had been stabbed. The victims, who

sustained non-life-threatening injuries, were transported to hospital. The suspects had fled the area.

The Sea to Sky General Investigation Sec tion took conduct of the file and through the course of investigation three suspects were identified.

On November 7, charges were laid against:

* Elliot Bains of Delta: two counts of aggra vated assault and possession of a weapon

* Nathan Sidhu of Surrey: two counts of ag gravated assault and possession of a weapon

* Harmeen Cheema of Vancouver: two counts of aggravated assault “We are committed to keeping our commu nities safe and are pleased that the culmina

tion of this investigation has led to charges,” said Cpl. Angela Kermer of the Sea to Sky RCMP.

Whistler RCMP ask anyone with any infor mation regarding any file to contact the lo cal detachment at 604-932-3044, or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or www. solvecrime.ca.

with its sister club Shao Lin Hung Gar Kung Fu Association.

Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim screengrab

Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim and the Councillors address the media. This photo by SUKHWANT DHILLON / AM 600 Sher-E-Punjab Radio

Head Granthi Giani Harminder Pal Singh and other religious leaders. screengrab

Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke releases her top priorities upon taking office

SURREY Mayor Brenda Locke out lined her top priorities on Monday as she began her four-year term, stating that her vision and com mitment to residents was to en sure transparency, restore public engagement, and maintain Surrey RCMP as the police of jurisdiction. The new Mayor and City Council lors — Linda Annis and Mike Bose (Surrey First); Harry Bains, Gor don Hepner, Rob Stutt and Pard eep Kooner (Surrey Connect); and Doug Elford and Mandeep Nagra (Safe Surrey Coalition) — were sworn in on Monday evening at Surrey City Hall by Judge Valli Chettiar.

Locke said: “Surrey deserves a Council that values public input, delivers on promises and above all else, is ethical and transparent. Restoring integrity and public en gagement will be the focus of my work every step of the way. My immediate priorities are maintain ing Surrey RCMP as the police of

jurisdiction, ensuring extensive public input on the city’s budget, strengthening the independence of the Ethics Commissioner and creating a stronger role for youth in our city. All voices will be heard and I look forward to working with all the residents of Surrey.”

* Maintaining Surrey RCMP as the police of jurisdiction: Work has already begun to main tain Surrey RCMP as the police of jurisdiction for the City, including producing a report outlining the plan. When complete, this plan will be released publicly for all to

see.

* Public consultation on the City Budget

Seeking community input on the City of Surrey’s Financial Plan will be a top focus and priority. Opportunities will be made avail able for residents to provide input

and feedback in each of the City’s town centres.

* Strengthening the Office of the Ethics Commissioner

The City of Surrey Ethics Commis sioner will be strengthened to en sure independence and transpar ency.

Judge Valli Chettiar and Brenda Locke.

Photo: City of Surrey

Karishma Deo sings O Canada. screengrab

Indian Consul General Manish with Brenda Locke.

Photos by SUKHWANT DHILLON / AM 600 Sher-E-Punjab Radio Indian Vice Consul Sanjay Malhotra, Indian Consul General Manish and Councillor Mandeep Nagra.

Councillors Harry Bains and Mike Bose.

LOVEPREET Brar, Surrey family liaison victim services manager, RCMP Integrated Homicide Investigation Team, is one of three community leaders who was recognized on Friday in downtown Vancouver for work supporting crime prevention and community safety, with a focus on transformative Indigenous-led approaches.

Two community organizations were also recognized at the 25th annual Community Safety and Crime Prevention Awards.

Brar’s citation reads: “Winner of the Services to Victims Award, Lovepreet Brar has shown outstanding leadership and dedication assisting crime victims’ families as the family liaison victim services manager of the RCMP’s Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT). IHIT provides support, liaison and co-ordination services for 28 RCMP-served communities and four municipal police-served communities in the Lower Mainland.

“Crown counsel, investigators, community support programs and families have praised Lovepreet for her work providing trauma-informed and empathic support to those in need.”

“These inspiring award recipients prove we can create a safer province by working together to prevent crime,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General. “I congratulate them for their leadership, commitment and innovation, and I thank them for all they do in building safer communities.”

The awards acknowledge individuals, nonprofit organizations, and justice and community partners for their work in advancing crime prevention, restorative justice, support for vulnerable people and other initiatives that keep British Columbia’s communities safer. These efforts support provincial initiatives in crime prevention, victim services and policing.

“These award recipients are our partners on the front lines of crime prevention and community safety, and they make a lasting impact on people’s lives,” said Grace Lore, Parliamentary Secretary for Gender Equity. “I am deeply appreciative of their outstanding work supporting some of our province’s most vulnerable people, including marginalized women and children who face violence.”

The Community Safety and Crime Prevention

Surrey RCMP:

woman Traci Johal

SURREY RCMP are seeking the public’s assistance to locate a missing woman, 56-year-old Traci Johal.

On November 8 at 11:38 p.m., Surrey RCMP received a report of a missing woman who was last seen leaving her residence in the 6600-block of 120 Street in Surrey. Family indicated she left the area on foot in the early morning hours of November 8 at approximately 2 a.m.

Johal’s disappearance is considered out of character and it is unusual for her not to be in contact with family members. Her family and police are concerned about her well-being.

Johal is described as a South Asian woman, 5’6”, 125 lbs., with shoulder-length dyed dark blonde hair. She was last seen wearing a white blouse, black or grey leggings, a black sweater and black running shoes.

Anyone with information about Johal is asked to contact the Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502.

Essem Textiles is a modern boutique fabric store that carries a range of fashion fabrics,quilting cottons and notions. We are located on the historic downtown Cloverdale strip.We carry fabrics at a ordable prices such as cotton, knits,sequins,lace,satin,brocade, georgette,chi on,net, velvet, men's suiting & more - come and see for youself !We can't wait to help you get started on your next project.

ON Wednesday, the City of Port Moody unveiled a new heritage storyboard in Rocky Point Park commemorating the 1914 Komagata Maru in cident and the efforts of the local Sikh community to re duce the suffering of passen gers forced to stay aboard the ship.

The Komagata Maru was the name of a steamship carrying 376 prospective im migrants, mostly Sikhs from the Punjab region of India. In May 1914, when the ship ar rived in Vancouver, the pas sengers were denied entry to Canada and forced to stay aboard due to enforcement

of Canada’s exclusionary and discriminatory immigra tion laws.

The storyboard, titled “Re membering the Komagata Maru,” has been installed in Rocky Point Park (2800-block of Murray Street) at the wa ter’s edge just west of the restaurant building at 2770

Esplanade Avenue. It was developed in partnership with the Descendants of the Komagata Maru Society and the City’s Heritage Commis sion.

“This storyboard is an impor tant reminder of the damage caused by systemic racism, as it existed in the past and as it exists today,” said Port Moody Mayor Meghan Lahti. “It encourages us to con tinue to fight discrimination and foster inclusion in our communities so that we can create a better future for ev eryone.

“In 1914, the members of Port Moody’s Sikh commu nity came together to collect food, water, medication, and money to help the Komagata Maru passengers. It’s our hope that their selflessness and compassion, brought to life through this storyboard, will inspire all of us to think about how we can make positive changes in our city and our world. While much has changed since 1914, there is still a lot of work to do as we strive to create a more equitable and inclusive community.”

“The Komagata Maru inter pretive sign in Port Moody

will help educate the com munity and remind us of how unique Canada and Port Moody’s diverse makeup is,” said Raj Singh Toor, VicePresident of the Descendants of the Komagata Maru Soci ety. “We are all richer when we remember how special it is to have so many different ethnic communities living together.

“The Descendants of the Ko magata Maru Society hopes that it will help to connect Canadians, British Colum bians, and Port Moody resi dents with their past to build a more peaceful and tolerant

tomorrow. We can’t undo the past, but we can move forward and leave a legacy for future generations by educating them about the past.”

The new storyboard is part of the City’s Historical Stone Marker and Storyboard Pro gram, which commemorates people, places, and events that have played an impor tant role in Port Moody’s his tory. Visit portmoody.ca to find out more. To learn more about the Komagata Maru in cident, visit thecanadianen cycolpedia.ca or descen dantskomagatamaru.ca.

Raj Singh Toor and Port Moody Mayor Meghan Lahti stand next to the City’s new heritage storyboard unveiled in Rocky Point Park on November 9.

Photos: City of Port Moody

CLAYTON BEAUTY -Well kept 2 Storey with Bs mt home with ae en Excellentoor plan with bright, spacious layout with high ceiling throughout the mainoor Formal dining and den, remarkable covered entrance and large den with 12' ceiling, huge open concept kitchen, good size island and pantr y to please the home chef. Master bedroom with double doors, huge walk-in closet and good size 5 piece ensuite. Beautiful front porch and good size fenced backyard with 2 car driveway and double garage Awesome huge 3 bedroom Bs mt suite with ae en Private Entr y.

Peel Regional Police Chief Nishan Duraiappah appointed to the Order of Ontario

THE Peel Police Services Board on Wednes day congratulated Peel Regional Police Chief Nishan Duraiappah on his appoint ment to the Order of Ontario. Elizabeth Dowdeswell, Lieutenant Governor of On tario, will bestow the honour to Duraiappah at a ceremony on November 21.

The Order of Ontario recognizes exception al leaders from all walks of life and diverse fields of endeavour whose impact and last ing legacy have played an important role in building a stronger province, country, and world.

In 2019, Duraiappah was hired to usher in a new era of policing in Peel and across Can ada, the Peel Police Services Board said in a statement.

Duraiappah’s upbringing in Canada after his parents immigrated from Sri Lanka, combined with his 34 years of experience

as a police officer and leader on a local, re gional, and national level, prepared him to take on the challenge of implementing an important mandate for reform and achiev ing the ambitious strategic goal of making the Peel Police Service the most progres sive and innovative in Canada.

The Board said that with only three years on the job as Peel Police Chief, he has implemented sweeping changes that are reimagining policing in this country, includ ing pioneering a community safety and well-being strategy and its modernization through innovation and technology.

It noted that Duraiappah has not shied away from the goal of eliminating systemic racism, including anti-Black racism in po licing through a ground-breaking Memo

randum of Understanding with the Ontario Human Rights Commission with the goal of promoting transparency and improving ra cialized communities’ trust in policing.

Under his watch, Peel Region has once again ranked amongst the safest communi ties in Canada, according to Stats Canada 2021 Police-Reported Crime Statistics in Canada.

Duraiappah is Canada’s most senior South Asian police officer, as well as the current President of the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police. He has received the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal and is an Officer of the Order of Merit Canada. The Peel Police Services Board said it is proud of Duraiappah’s accomplishments and the positive impact his leadership has had on policing in Canada.

Indian student was sexually assaulted, forcibly confined at an Airbnb rental in Toronto

A 28-year-old Brampton man is facing a seven-year prison sentence after be ing found guilty of sexually assaulting a 19-year-old woman who had just arrived in Canada as a student, says a Brampton media report.

to protect the victim’s identity, was staying in the room next to her at an Airbnb rental in Toronto.

On September 9, 2020, the victim came to Canada and had to quarantine for 14 days, as per the COVID-19 regulations at the time.

“Over several days in September 2020, he preyed upon her vulnerability,” wrote Jus tice Brock Jones in the reasons for judg ment released on October 19. He stated that the man took advantage of the fact that she was here alone, had no friends or family nearby, and threatened to “have her deported” if she told anyone. The accused was found guilty of two counts of sexual assault, one count of forcible en try, one count of forcible confinement, one count of assault and one count of threaten ing death.

The courts heard that he came into her bedroom on two separate occasions and sexually assaulted her.

On September 20, 2020, he came into her room a third time and knocked on her door. She asked to be left alone. He knocked on her door a second time, loudly. She opened the door a crack and he forced his way in, according to the court. She slapped him and told him to “go away,”

and then tried to escape, but he wouldn’t let her.

It was when a delivery came to the door that he was distracted enough for her to get away and seek the help of another male roommate.

The judge described a court-ordered report under the Mental Health Act, which was undertaken by two doctors from the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH).

The accused admitted to using drugs, and the doctors concluded that he suffered from an underlying psychotic illness.

The judge determined that this illness did not negate his responsibility for his actions, stating he “remains a danger to the safety of the community including any possible future victims such as vulnerable women.”

During the sentencing hearing on Sep tember 26, the accused left at a break and didn’t come back.

He was arrested on October 5 and has been in custody since.

FOR MORE STORIES AND BREAKING NEWS, VISIT OUR WEBSITE VOICEONLINE.COM

Peel Regional Police Chief Nishan Duraiappah Official photo

Canadian Hindu Chamber of Commerce Dhanteras Gala in Oakville, Ontario

OAKVILLE, Ontario: On November 5, more than 450 business owners, investors and in dividuals attended the first annual Canadian Hindu Chamber of Commerce Dhanteras Gala at the OE Banquet Hall and Conference Centre here.

Senator Leo Housakos, MP Chandra Arya, MP Garnett Genuis and Mayor Rob Burton were among those who attended. Ontario Premier Doug Ford, MP Melissa Lantsman and yoga guru Dr H.R. Nagendra sent video messages. Greetings were also sent by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and Ontario MPPs Stephen Crawford, Nina Tangri, and Logan Kanapathi.

Awards: * Hindu Ethos Award – Dhiren Trivedi * Member of the Year Award – Maharshi Jani * Business Excellence Award – Hemant M Shah * Excellence in Education Award – Parthi

Jaskarandeep Garcha, 20, of Brampton arrested in BB gun discharge, property damage

ON June 24, an unknown man attended a restaurant in the area of Dixie Road and Mayfield Road in the City of Brampton, where he discharged a BB gun shattering the drive-through window.

*

After a lengthy investigation Peel Regional Police identified the man responsible. On November 8, a search warrant was execut ed at a Brampton address.

Police have arrested and charged Jaskaran deep Garcha, 20, of Brampton man with:

* Mischief over $5,000

* Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose

Police have seized two BB guns. The ac cused was released on an undertaking and will appear in the Ontario Court of Justice, Brampton, on January 12, 2023.

Police said they would like to remind the public that although BB guns are legal to possess, great care should be used when using them. As shown in the photo, BB guns are almost impossible to tell from a real fire arm.

community.

Nritya

For

Kandavel

Professional Excellence Award – Rakesh Joshi

Corporate Excellence Award – Vipul Patel

Global Hindu Award – Rajiv Malhotra

Art and Culture Award – Kanan Bhatt

* Lifetime Achievement Award – Jeffrey Arm strong (Kavindra Rishi)

Chandra Arya mentioned the importance of 2022 where a Hindu was elected Prime Min ister in the UK, Canada declared November as Hindu Heritage Month and the Canadian Hindu Chamber of Commerce held their first Dhanteras Gala. Senator Leo Housakos praised the economic strength of the Hindu

MP Garnett Genuis praised the Hindu community for their contributions across all fields to the Canadian society.

Kala Mandir performed Ganesh Van dana, Chahana Dave performed Kathak folk dance, and Chitra Das performed Bangla deshi classical.

more photos, please visit our website voiceonline.com

BB guns are almost impossible to tell from a real firearm.)

BB guns are almost impossible to tell from a real firearm.

Three

files in 72 hours in Delta

Starting on Thursday, November 3, the Delta Police Department responded to reports of shots fired in the area of 92A Ave and 117 Street in North Delta. Officers located a 22-year-old man from Delta with significant gunshot injuries. The investigation has re sulted in tips from the public and the retriev al of important surveillance video evidence. The victim is recovering in the hospital from his injuries. The investigation is ongoing.

In another drug investigation, on Novem ber 3 and 4, members of the DPD Drug In vestigative Support Team (DIST) executed search warrants on residences located in Richmond and North Delta. The searches resulted in the seizure of drugs, cash, evi dence of a drug trafficking operation, and firearms. Two suspects from North Delta were arrested with the assistance of the Lower Mainland Emergency Response Team (LMD ERT) in Vancouver on Friday af ternoon. Investigators are preparing charge

recommendations for Crown counsel. In a third investigation, on Saturday, Novem ber 5, Delta Police were made aware of a suspicious vehicle in the area of Upper Can yon Road, North Delta. Patrol officers locat ed an unoccupied vehicle and confirmed it to be reported stolen from Surrey. The pa trol officers recognized that the contents of the vehicle indicated the car was staged in the area to be utilized for further criminal activity – potentially acts of violence associ ated with the current gang conflict.

Late Sunday evening, a suspect returned to the vehicle and was apprehended by members of the DPD with the assistance of the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit’s Uniformed Gang Enforcement Team (UGET). The male suspect was taken into custody for stolen property and firearms of fences. The Crown has approved charges against the suspect, and the matter is before the courts.

Delta Police noted that the arrests made in these events highlight the coordinated response between law enforcement agen cies to target those involved in the ongoing Lower Mainland Gang Conflict.

In relation to crimes related to organized gang activity, Delta Police said it is actively investigating and pursuing charges. “We ask that our community be a part of keep ing Delta safe by continuing to observe and report suspicious incidents.” they added.

New Westminster Police seize drugs and weapons from a suite

THE New Westminster Police Department Street Crime Unit and the Lower Mainland Integrated Emergency Response Team ex ecuted a search warrant on a property near the 300-block of Agnes Street at about mid night on November 4.

Police located both drugs and weapons from a suite. Six people were arrested and the in vestigation is ongoing.

This search warrant was connected to a lengthy investigation led by the New West minster Police Department Street Crime Unit, with the assistance of the Gang Suppression Unit, Patrol, and the Crime Reduction Unit.

“Drug trafficking and weapons possession pose an obvious risk to public safety and negatively affect the entire community,” said Sgt. Justine Thom. “We take these offences very seriously, which is why our Street Crime Unit has devoted the time and energy to stop drug traffickers from profiting in our city. We’d like to thank the numerous teams for their assistance in this investigation.”

If residents are witnessing what they believe to be drug activity in their neighbourhood they are encouraged to call the New West minster Police Department at 604-525-5411.

Photo: Delta Police

Trudeau and Poilievre on the anniversary of the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji

PRIME Minister Justin Trudeau on Tuesday issued the following state ment on the anniversary of the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji:

“Today, Sikhs in Canada and around the world will celebrate the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of the Sikh religion and first Sikh guru.

“On the anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s birth, family and friends will come together to reflect on his life and teachings of unity, compassion, and equality – core values of the Sikh faith that Canadians embody every day. As Sikhs honour the life of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, I hope we all can find inspiration in his teach ings, and in his universal and time less message for all of us.

“This day is also an opportunity to recognize the contributions Sikh Canadians have made – and con tinue to make – to create a better Canada. Sikhs across the country practise seva, or selfless service, by helping Canadians in need, irre spective of background.

“On behalf of our family, Sophie and I offer our warmest wishes to all those celebrating the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.”

PIERRE Poilievre, Conservative Par ty Leader, said in a statement: “Today, Sikhs in Canada and

around the world celebrate Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Gurpurab – the birth of Sikhism’s founder, Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

“Guru Nanak exemplified the val ues of peace, generosity and com passion to all his followers. Even as a child, Guru Nanak demonstrated how to live peacefully with others, as he championed the equality of all people. His selflessness con tinues to inspire millions of Sikhs around the world, as they pursue greater faithfulness in their lives.

“Today, Sikhs honour Guru

Nanak’s legacy, and seek to fol low in his footsteps. As part of the celebrations, Sikhs will gather to meditate, sing kirtans and reflect on the core values of Sikhism and the teachings of Guru Nanak such as to remember God constantly, to earn an honest livelihood, and to share their earnings with everyone through charity. Many will also be busy cooking food and organizing langars as a way of blessing their neighbours and communities.

“Nearly half a million Sikhs live in Canada and work every day to

make our country a more peace ful, welcoming place. Their con tributions have enriched Cana dian public life and have brought immense joy to communities across our country. In this way, all Canadians have been profoundly blessed by the teachings of Guru Nanak. Today, I urge my fellow Canadians to take time to reflect on this incredible gift and share in the celebration of this special oc casion.

“On behalf of the Conservative Party of Canada, from my family to yours, have a blessed Guru Nanak Gurupurab!”

B.C. Parliamentary Secretary for Anti-Racism Initiatives Rachna Singh, said in a statement: “Today marks the 553rd anniver sary of the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of the Sikh re ligion and the first of the 10 Sikh gurus. This special day is known as Gurpurab, which refers to an anniversary of a guru’s birth that is celebrated by holding a festi val. Today, Guru Nanak Gurpurab is one of the most sacred festivals for the Sikh community in British Columbia and around the world.

“In Gurudwaras, places of assem bly and worship for Sikhs, the cele

brations have been ongoing for two days. On the first day, Sikhs begin to read the Guru Granth Sahib, the religious scripture of Sikhism, from beginning to end. This continuous reading is called an Akhand Path, which is an extremely meaningful meditative practice for Sikhs that is done in shifts until the morning of Gurpurab.

“Guru Nanak Dev Ji shared a cen tral message of equality for all, re gardless of gender, religion or back ground. To honour Gurpurab, many Sikhs participate in sevaselfless ser vice that is performed without any expectations of reward for doing it. Whether taking the form of cooking food for others, volunteering in the community or helping a neighbour with gardening, participating Sikhs embody Guru Nanak’s lessons of unity, selflessness and service by helping others, regardless of faith, ethnicity or background.

“British Columbia is home to one of the largest Sikh populations in Canada. As we mark Gurpurab, I encourage all British Columbians to reflect on the important contri butions Sikh Canadians make to our province as we work to create a better future for everyone.

“I extend my warmest wishes for a happy Guru Nanak Gurpurab!”

Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre and his party MPs including KerryLynne Findlay and Tim Uppal along with BC Liberal MLA Elenore Sturko and others celebrated Gurpurab at Nanaksar Gurdwara Gursikh Temple in Richmond on Tuesday. Photos by SUKHWANT DHILLON / AM 600 Sher-E-Punjab Radio

Conservative Party Leader Poilievre: “Justin Trudeau is out of touch”

CONSERVATIVE Party Leader

Pierre Poilievre on Saturday slammed the Liberal government, stating that “the cost of govern ment is driving up the cost of liv ing.”

He added that Prime Minister Jus tin Trudeau’s “inflationary deficits have resulted in a cost-of-living cri sis that will push many struggling Canadians over the edge.”

He said: “Food bank usage is at an all-time high with Food Banks Canada recording 1.5 million visits to food banks in just one month which is a 35% increase com pared to last year. Gas prices have also reached record-highs.”

To address the cost-of-living crisis, Poilievre said his Conservative Par ty had proposed “common cents” solutions – stop the taxes and stop the spending. He said his govern ment would stop payroll tax hikes, axe the federal carbon tax and cap spending with a Pay-As-YouGo Law requiring the government to find a dollar of savings for each

new dollar of spending. The Lib eral Fall Economic Statement did neither of these things, he pointed out.

Poilievre said: “The fall economic update shows that government revenues have increased by $40.1 billion this year alone. This means

that inflation is not only increas ing costs for everyday essentials such as gas, groceries and home heating, but also increasing taxes for Canadians. The Trudeau Liber als are profiting off of increased inflation. Canadians are out of money and Justin Trudeau is out

of touch.”

He added that “the costly LiberalNDP coalition works against the interests and well-being of hard working Canadians.” He noted that despite worries of a looming recession, the costly coalition vot ed against his motion to exempt home heating from the carbon tax to give some relief to Canadians.

With B.C. cities among the worst crime-hit places in Canada, ac cording to a recent Statistics Canada report, Poilievre said that instead of enforcing stronger laws to protect victims and to punish vi olent criminals, the Liberals push legislations like Bill C-5 that takes away mandatory jail time for vio lent crime and allow these crimi nals to serve under house arrest in B.C. communities.

On the issue of decriminalizing illicit drugs, Poilievre said that Ca nadians struggling with addiction deserve compassion and that the federal government should pri oritize expanding treatment and

recovery programs so that they can get help. He emphasized that Canada’s drug laws and law enforcement efforts must target individuals trafficking and selling illegal drugs rather than those bat tling drug addiction.

In his first visit to B.C. as Leader of the Conservative Party, Poilievre at Saturday’s press conference also discussed the need to list Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization, offer more support to Ukraine in their conflict against Russia, de velop Canada’s energy sector, remove gatekeepers to boost the housing market, resolve immigra tion backlogs, and for his party to build stronger relations with eth nic communities in Canada.

Poilievre commended media out lets in Canada for their selfless work in representing minority and diaspora communities across the country, and for ensuring that ev eryone has access to key informa tion and breaking news.

Significant windstorm impacts hundreds of thousands of BC Hydro customers on South Coast

STRONG winds and heavy rain left about 330,000 customer without power on Van couver Island, the Gulf Islands, the Sunshine Coast and the Lower Mainland on Friday (No vember 4) last week. Crews worked overnight and power was restored to 185,000 customers by Saturday morning.

As of 6:30 a.m. on Saturday, there were 145,000 customers without power. The hardest hit ar eas were Surrey, Abbotsford, Burnaby and Na naimo. Regional breakdown was as follows:

- Lower Mainland North (including the Sun shine Coast): 36,000 customers without power

- Lower Mainland South: 80,000 customers without power

- Vancouver Island (including the Gulf Islands): 28,000 customers without power BC Hydro had been closely tracking the storm, and sent many crews home early in the day

on Friday so they could rest and be avail able for overnight work. As a result, all avail able BC Hydro crews and contractor crews worked overnight to repair and restore cus tomers impacted by the storm. One chal lenge the crews faced during the night was falling trees, which made it too dangerous for them to access some areas to begin re pair work.

The wind knocked down trees and branch es – many of them weakened by the sum mer’s drought – causing them to come into contact with BC Hydro’s electrical equip ment. As a result, crews continued to be busy repairing damaged power lines, pow er poles and other equipment.

Pierre Poilievre (2nd from left) at Saturday's press conference in Vancouver. Photo supplied

At Burnaby's Smith Avenue and Price Street on Saturday morning. Photo by AKSHAY SINGLA

David Eby to be sworn in at Musqueam Community Centre on November 18

DAVID Eby will be sworn in as B.C.’s next premier by Lieutenant Governor Janet Austin on Friday, November 18 at 10 a.m. at the Musqueam Community Centre in Vancouver.

Eby’s cabinet will be sworn in on December 7 at Government House in Victoria.

“I am excited to be taking this important step close to home where my family and the people who have always supported me live,” said Premier-designate Eby. “I am very grateful to Chief Wayne Sparrow, the Musqueam councillors and the Musqueam peo-

Eby Photo: Eby website

IHIT called in after man and woman found deceased inside Chilliwack residence

THE Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) has taken conduct of an investigation after two people were located deceased inside a residence in Chilliwack.

Shortly before 2 p.m. on Tuesday, November 8, Chilliwack RCMP were called to a residence in the 44400-block of South Sumas Road after receiving a report that a man and a woman had been located inside it. Investigators attended the scene and determined that these deaths appeared suspicious in nature.

IHIT is closely in partnership with Chilliwack RCMP, the BC Coroners Service and the RCMP Integrated Forensic Identification Section (IFIS).

Investigators remain on scene and are working to confirm the identities of the victims. IHIT is asking anyone with information regarding the homicides to contact the IHIT In-

Suspect arrested after assaulting New Westminster convenience store worker

ON November 6 at approximately 8 a.m., New Westminster Police Department patrol officers responded to a 9-1-1 call from a convenience store worker who had just been assaulted by an unknown man in the 400-block of Columbia Street.

ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.

ple for hosting this ceremony in their home community. Because of their efforts, this event will be a powerful symbol of a shared

vision for a province that delivers results for all British Columbians, in close partnership with Indigenous Peoples.”

The victim told police that when the suspect was spoken to about not paying for ice cream, he began to strike the staff member and brandished a knife.

Officers rushed to the scene and located someone matching the suspect’s description exiting the Columbia SkyTrain Station. When told by officers that he was under arrest, the suspect attempted to flee. Officers arrested the suspect and found three knives in his possession.

Charges related to assault with a weapon and breach of conditions are being recommended.

“I want to remind all business owners and staff in New Westminster that if you ever feel unsafe, call 9-1-1 and we will be there,” said Sgt. Justine Thom. “Assaults against customer service staff will not be tolerated.”

Anyone with information is asked to call the New Westminster Police Department at 604525-5411.

David

formation Line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or by email at

Eastside crisis: Vancouver Police Chief

MORE coordination, oversight and account ability is needed to improve the health and safety crisis in the Downtown Eastside, said Vancouver Police Chief Adam Palmer on Wednesday as he Wednesday released preliminary findings of a 14-month audit on social spending in that area.

Palmer said: “It’s clear that the system needs to be fixed. Despite more talk than ever, and more money than ever, life is now bleaker than ever for a growing number of people in places like the Downtown Eastside. Despite all the money being spent, our communities need more help.”

Palmer’s comments came as Vancouver Police released preliminary findings of a study conducted by HelpSeeker Technolo gies. Helpseeker is an Alberta-based social innovation and technology company that examined how Vancouver’s social safety net is funded by looking at social supports that exist to improve social well-being and safety in our communities.

Findings are included in VPD’s draft report Vancouver’s Social Safety Net: Rebuild ing the Broken, and Helpseeker’s report, Igniting Transformational Systems Change Through Policing.

Key findings:

* $5 billion a year is directed toward Van

couver’s social safety net. That’s equivalent to $14 million a day, or $7,200 for each Van couver resident.

* Nearly $1.5 billion is directed toward reg istered charities and non-profit associations with a direct mandate to support social is sues, such as homelessness and poverty.

* Approximately $1 million a day going spent directly on community and social is sues in the Downtown Eastside.

Despite the billions being spent, many would suggest that the health and safety cri sis is worsening.

* Last year alone, there were 527 overdose deaths in Vancouver – up 115 per cent from two years prior. With 58 overdose deaths for every 100,000 people, Vancouver had more overdose deaths per capita than Chicago, New York City, and Los Angeles.

* A resident in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside is now 32.3 per cent more likely to live with depression, and seven times more likely to live with schizophrenia or another delusional disorder.

* There remains comparatively inadequate funding for addiction recovery programs, offender rehabilitation services, and proac tive programs to help victims of crime.

Vancouver Police say they have already shared the preliminary report with dozens of community partners and stakeholder

groups, and continue to seek input on the findings. VPD is also recommending estab lishment of a steering committee made up of community partners and various levels of government, and creation of a centralized entity to oversee and coordinate services in the Downtown Eastside.

“We have seen where better coordination leads to success, with such organizations like Vancouver Coastal Health and Canadi an Mental Health Association; we have also listened to the experts who suggest where we will see the most improvements when we fund programs that are known to work (e.g., addiction, mental health, youth, Indig enous),” the VPD noted.

Palmer said: “While today marks the start of an important public conversation – one I hope finally brings meaningful change – I also know there is a long road ahead and we all need to do better. Our vulnerable

Sanjha Vehra Women’s Association: 18th Annual Breast Cancer Fundraiser

Virtual Celebration. October is Breast Can cer Awareness Month. Sanjha Vehra Wom en’s Association will be collecting dona tions by E-transfer at sanjhavehra@gmail. com or you can make cheques payable to “Sanjha Vehra Women’s Association” till end of November. The association will pro mote and advertise your business by dis playing your name on its Facebook page during the whole of November. Cheques or cash can be dropped off @ Passionate Hair & Beauty Lounge Address: 107-12837 88th Avenue West, Surrey. Phone: 778-5655123. Please open your hearts and donate and sponsor the way you all have been as sisting in the past and like always you will be getting your tax-deductible receipts. Sanjha Vehra Women’s Association will highly appreciate your generosity. All pro ceeds go to: Surrey Hospital Foundation. For more information call hot line: 604-5066123 / E-mail: sanjhavehra@gmail.com.

South Asian Adults and Seniors Programs

* Yoga classes in person at Shanti Niketan

communities deserve it and the public ex pects it.”

He added: “Public safety is our number one priority, and we are committed to seeing this work through to the end, and working with the community to address issues that impact the health and safety of everyone who lives in Vancouver, works here, and comes to visit.”

HOWEVER, Public Safety Minister Mike Farnworth has accused the police depart ment of “spreading sensationalized and misleading numbers.”

Vancouver Mayor Ken Sims said that he didn’t find the study to be useful, noting that the numbers don’t seem well supported, CBC reported.

“This report isn’t one that we’re going to be relying a lot on when it comes to the evi dence and data,” he said.

Hall conducted by yoga instructor Ashwini Bansal on every Monday and every Thurs day from 10 to 11:15 a.m. on both days. Yoga expert Mahendra Kumar Juneja will also help participants. This is only for par ticipants who have been double vaccinat ed for COVID-19. They should bring face masks and a yoga mat and maintain social distancing. Pure vegetarian lunch is served in the dining hall of the Temple to all se niors every Thursday after the yoga class.

Contact Surendra Handa, Coordinator, at 604-507-9945 email surendra_handa@ hotmail.com for registration and further information.

* Life certificates will be issued to all re tirees from India on Sunday, November 13 at Lakshmi Narayan Temple in Surrey. Of ficials from the Consulate General of India in Vancouver will be present to check the forms are correctly filled and sign them from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The retirees are re quired to bring their original passport, one photocopy of the passport page with pho tograph and the details of the bank where their pension is being deposited. Pure veg etarian lunch will be served to everyone present there.

Capilano

Bridge Park

Vancouver’s holiday season with return of Canyon Lights

Canyon Lights transforms Capilano Suspension Bridge Park into an unforgettable holiday light experi ence. Walk across the world-fa mous bridge, lit end-to-end above an illuminated Capilano River. Jour ney into a magical glowing rainfor est and gain a new perspective high above the forest floor on Treetops Adventure, twinkling from treetop to forest floor. Wind your way along Cliffwalk and its “Arc de Lumina” light tunnel.

But that’s not all. Find the perfect gift in the Trading Post Gift Store, enjoy a decadent hot chocolate while enjoying festive tunes, and take part in the Snowy Owl Prowl scavenger hunt.

Canyon Lights continues its support of the BC Professional Fire Fight

ers’ Burn Fund with partial pro ceeds from admissions donated to fire and burn education in schools throughout British Columbia. To date, Canyon Lights has donated over $410,000 to this worthy pro gram. Admissions also help Cap ilano continue to host the Twelve Nights of Christmas, offering passes to local charities.

Tickets must be purchased in ad vance online and went on sale on Thursday, November 3, at cap bridge.com, with a limited quan tity of tickets available. Visits are scheduled in 30-minute arrival in crements. BC Annual Passholders are also required to reserve their time online prior to their visit. Book early to avoid missing out.

For general information, including the free shuttle schedule to and from Canada Place, visit www.cap bridge.com or call 604.985.7474.

For information on the BC Profes sional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund, visit www.burnfund.org.

* What: Capilano Suspension Bridge Park featuring Canyon Lights

* When: Saturday, November 19 –Sunday, January 22 Park is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily except Christmas Day when the park is closed

* Where: Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, 3735 Capilano Road, North Vancouver

GPS locator tag helps track down alleged bike thieves in North Vancouver

A victim of a bicycle theft called police after he was able to map the location of his stolen bike using a GPS locator tag. The bike, which had been stolen earlier in the day from an underground parkade, was in the area of the 100-block of West Esplanade Avenue. The vic tim went to the parkade and waited for police to arrive.

When officers arrived at the location, they encountered two men associated to a vehi cle with several bikes in the back. The victim claimed one of the bikes was his. When of ficers attempted to arrest the suspects, one of the suspects ran, initiating a foot pursuit. The suspect was arrested a short distance away. “Investigators moved quickly to apprehend the suspects in the investigation,” said Const bale Mansoor Sahak. “The suspects were both known to police and have no fixed addresses. As a result of the investigation, officers were

also able to seize several other items of what are believed to be stolen property.”

Some tips for bike owners:

* If you are leaving your bike in or attached to your vehicle, lock it to your vehicle (highend mountain bikes are often stolen from the back of a pick-up truck or vehicle in large parking areas such as malls while the owner is running a short errand)

* Choose appropriate places to park; well-lit areas with good visibility are best

* Do not leave your bike on or in your vehicle overnight, even in secure underground park ing lots (secure underground parking lots are a popular stalking ground for bike thieves)

* If you are required to store your bike in a designated area, such as a bike locker, use two different, high quality locks and remove the seat

Photos submitted

NORTH Vancouver RCMP arrested two

on November 5

theft

relation

stolen bike in an underground parkade in the 100-block of West Esplanade Avenue.

Colombo, Sri Lanka (IANS): The Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry on Wednesday said that it is working with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) and the country’s mission in Vietnam for the early repatriation of 303 Sri Lankans, who were rescued off the Spratly Islands following a failed attempt to migrate to Canada.

It said that the screening of Sri Lankans – 264 men, 19 women, and 20 children who were rescued from the Myanmar-flagged Lady 3 fishing vessel would be done by the IOM in coordination with the Vietnam authorities and the Sri Lanka Embassy in Vietnam.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to work closely with the Sri Lanka Missions in the Philippines, Singapore, Vietnam and IOM for early repatriation, once the screening process to

ascertain their nationality and other formalities are completed,” the Foreign Ministry said in a statement. It said that it continues to monitor the progress of the passengers of Sri Lankan origin who were rescued and bought to the Port of Vung Tau in Vietnam on

Tuesday.

The Sri Lanka Navy told IANS that following a call by a Sri Lankan in the distressed boat on early Monday, the Navy and Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Colombo alerted Singapore, Vietnam and the

Philippines to help those onboard. SL Navy spokesman Captain Indika de Silva said following the alert, the passengers in the drifting vessel had been rescued by a Japanese vessel. “The vessel with the distressed passengers had not originated from Sri Lanka,” he added.

According to Vietnam’s Maritime Search and Rescue Coordination Centre, the fishing vessel was heading to Canada, about 6,000 nautical miles across the Pacific Ocean. Each member in the group had paid around $4,000 to $5,000 to travel to Canada via a fishing vessel after they had flown to Myanmar from Colombo.

After rescuing all aboard the drifting vessel, Japanese-flagged vessel “Helios Leader” had handed them over to Vietnam authorities at Vung Tau Port in south Vietnam.

London: Diamond merchant Nirav Modi on November 9 lost his appeal against extradition on mental health grounds as the High Court in London ruled that his risk of suicide is not such that it would be either unjust or oppressive to extradite him to India to face charges of fraud and money laundering.

Lord Justice Jeremy StuartSmith and Justice Robert Jay, who presided over the appeal hearing at the Royal Courts of Justice earlier this year, said in their verdict that District Judge Sam Goozee’s Westminster Magistrates’ Court order from last year in favour of extradition was “sound”.

The leave to appeal in the High Court had been granted on two grounds — under Article 3 of the

European Convention of Human Rights (ECHR) to hear arguments if it would be “unjust or oppressive” to extradite 51-year-old Modi due to his mental state and Section 91 of the Extradition Act 2003, also related to mental health.

Pulling these various strands together and weighing them in the balance so as to reach an overall evaluative judgment on the question raised by Section 91, we are far from satisfied that Modi’s mental condition and the risk of suicide are such that it would be either unjust or oppressive to extradite him,” the ruling states.

“It may be that the main benefit of the appeal has been to obtain the extensive further [Indian Government] assurances that we have identified in the course of

the judges ruled.

As he has lost this appeal hearing, Modi can approach the Supreme Court on a point of law of public importance, to be

applied for to the Supreme Court against the High Court’s decision within 14 days of a High Court verdict. However, this involves a high threshold as appeals to the Supreme Court can only be made if the High Court has certified that the case involves a point of law of general public importance.

Finally, after all avenues in the UK courts are exhausted, the diamantaire could still seek a socalled Rule 39 injunction from the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR). Therefore, the process of bringing him back to India to be lodged at Arthur Road Jail in Mumbai and stand trial for fraud and money laundering amounting to an estimated $2 billion in the Punjab National Bank (PNB) loan scam case still has some way to go.

this judgment, which render the position clear to Modi’s advantage and the District Judge’s decision supportable,”

T20 World Cup 2022: England thrashes India; to meet Pakistan in final

Adelaide, Australia: A thoroughly profes sional England annihilated an out-of-sync India by 10 wickets to sail into the World Cup final as Alex Hales and Jos Buttler’s relent less hitting mortified Rohit Sharma’s clue less attack, in Adelaide on November 10. England seemed to have saved their best for the grand stage as they reduced the semifi nal to a lop-sided affair, courtesy a splendid bowling effort which they complemented with some breathtaking stroke-making. It was Hardik Pandya’s (68 off 33 balls) fear less hitting that took India to 168 for six but it was just about a par-score at the Adelaide Oval. England captain Buttler (80 not out)

set the tone with three boundaries off Bhu vneshwar Kumar’s opening over but it was Hales (86 not out) who butchered the Indian attack into submission.

The target was achieved in just 16 overs as the England batting line-up clicked for the first time in the tourney and what a day it chose to brings its A game to the fore. The England opening duo gave India’s star-stud ded line-up a lesson in how to build a T20 innings: that there is only one way, the of fensive way.

It was one match that was decided in Pow erplay as India managed only 38 runs in six overs as the archaic style of safety-first

approach hurt them terribly. In complete contrast, England’s top order, which looked shaky throughout the league stage, smashed 63 in their six overs. The match was won and lost then and there.

Hales hit as many as seven sixes in his 47ball knock and his approach showed that there were no demons in the track. He de ployed the old-fashioned ‘Sanath Jayasuriya school’ of hitting in the first six overs. When Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma were batting, they were looking to hit through the line un like Hales and Buttler.

Against lesser opposition like Bangladesh, they could make it up with a total of 168 but

it was never enough for a side like England which has reinvented the grammar of T20 batting.

Bhuvneshwar and Arshdeep Singh didn’t get enough swing up front and the team management’s fascination to play Axar Patel (0/30 in 4 overs) and Ravichandran Ashwin (0/27 in 2 overs) ahead of Yuzvendra Chahal backfired badly. The success England spin ner Adil Rashid (1/20 in 4 overs) had on the same track added insult to the injury.

By the time, Buttler hit Mohammed Shami (0/39 in 3 overs) down the ground for one of his three sixes, the Adelaide Oval stands wore a desolate half-empty look.

Anand Marriage Act will be implemented, says Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann

Sri Anandpur Sahib (IANS): On the occasion of Parkash Purb of Guru Nanak Dev, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Tues day paid obeisance at Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib and announced that Anand Marriage Act will be implemented for Sikhs to register their marriages in the state.

The Chief Minister said the Act was notified in 2016 but had been hanging in fire since then. He said though several other states have already implemented this Act but Punjab had lagged behind. Mann said the Act will be now imple

Kiev (IANS): Ukraine sees no sign that Russia is leaving Kherson with out a fight, a senior adviser to Presi dent Volodymyr Zelensky has said, amid fears in Kyiv that Moscow’s heavily stage-managed announce ment of retreat is actually a carefully laid trap, the media reported.

Mykhailo Podolyak, one of President Zelensky’s most-senior advisers, said last night that Russian troops remain in the city and that Kyiv be lieves reinforcements are on their way, Daily Mail reported.

“Actions speak louder than words,” he tweeted. “Ukraine will liberate

territories based on intelligence data, not staged TV statements.”

Oleksiy Arestovych, another senior adviser and former head of military intelligence, was a little more opti mistic but still cautious -- saying that Russian forces do appear to be leav ing the region “but not as much as would be taking place if it was a full pullout or regrouping”.

The Russians are destroying bridges as they flee and mining roads, ac cording to Arestovych, who added: ‘For the moment, we don’t know their intentions - will they engage in fighting with us and will they try to

hold the city of Kherson? They are moving very slowly.’

Zelensky also voiced fears overnight that Russia may try to blow up a dam at Nova Khakovka, flooding the area around Kherson and draining a reservoir which the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant relies on to cool itself - potentially triggering a meltdown, Daily Mail reported.

Issuing a warning to Moscow, he added: “(This) will mean you are declaring a war on the whole world. Think what will happen to you then.”

Zelensky said his troops will ‘move

mented in right earnest.

The Chief Minister paid obeisance at Takht Sahib and prayed to al mighty for the peace, progress and prosperity in the state.

He also prayed that the ethos of communal harmony, peace and brotherhood are strengthened in the state with every passing day and Punjab leads the country in every sphere.

Extending his greetings to the peo ple on the auspicious occasion of Prakash Purb, Mann said that Guru Nanak Dev was a great spiritual ambassador who guided human

ity to attain salvation by spreading the cult of devotion to God.

He said Guru Nanak Dev motivat ed mankind with new ideas, aims, and aspirations and called upon it to dispense with the maladies of hypocrisy, falsehood, pretensions and caste-prejudices.

Mann appealed to the people to imbibe the spirit of service and humility as preached by the Great Guru and strive hard for carving out a peaceful, prosperous and healthy society by following the precious legacy of Guru Nanak Dev.

very carefully, without emotions, without unnecessary risk’ into the area Russia claims to have aban doned, ‘strengthening our positions step by step’ to avoid any potential traps. “The enemy does not give us gifts,” he added.

Just two days ago, Ukraine’s gener als said Russian troops dressed in civilian clothes are being positioned inside houses in Kherson and are ‘strengthening positions for street battles.’

Meanwhile, General Mark Milley, Chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, has estimated that around

100,000 Russian and 100,000 Ukrai nian soldiers have been killed or in jured since Moscow waged its ongo ing war against Kiev on February 24.

Addressing an event in New York late Thursday, the most senior US general also said that around 40,000 civilians had died in the war, reports the BBC.

The American General also noted that between 15 and 30 million refu gees have been created since Rus sia launched its invasion.

The UN has recorded 7.8 million people as refugees from Ukraine across Europe, including Russia.

Bhagwant Mann pays obeisance at Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib.

Rawalpindi (IANS): The Pakistan army put to rest all speculations on Thursday of yet another extension for the incumbent chief as its official media wing confirmed that General Qamar Javed Bajwa has kicked off farewell visits, the media reported.

Despite the chief military spokesperson having already confirmed that General Ba jwa will not be seeking another extension, speculations regarding the incumbent chief staying on were rife in recent weeks, Ex press Tribune reported.

There were rumours that General Bajwa would be given a short extension, while a vice chief of army staff would be appointed, Express Tribune reported.

However, the ISPR’s latest statement made it abundantly clear that the incumbent COAS will formally quit on November 29. This will end his six-year tenure, during which Pakistan saw many developments, both on the internal and external fronts.

With the army officially confirming General

New Delhi: A Delhi court on Friday rapped the Enforcement Directorate for adopting a pick-and-choose policy, and asked why the agency had not arrested actor Jacqueline Fernandez despite issuing a lookout circu lar against her in a Rs. 2,000 million moneylaundering case involving conman Sukesh Chandrashekar.

Special Judge Shailendra Malik, who had earlier granted Fernandez interim bail, re served the order for Friday on the bail plea of the actor after hearing arguments from the lawyers appearing for Fernandez as well as the ED.

On the ED’s submission that Fernandez can escape the country easily as she is not short of money, the court questioned why the ac tor was not arrested so far. The agency told the court that it has issued a Lookout Circu lar (LOC) on airports to stop the actor from leaving the country.

“Why haven’t you (ED) arrested Jacqueline yet during the investigation despite issu ing an LOC? Other accused are in jail. Why adopt a pick-and-choose policy,” the court asked the probe agency.

Bajwa’s retirement date, all eyes are now on Pak Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif con cerning his choice of officer for the coveted slot.

It is expected that a summary carrying the names of potential candidates for the top

job will likely be moved about a week be fore General Bajwa’s retirement. However, given past practice, the formal announcement of the new chief will likely be made closer to his retirement date. Nev ertheless, some officials claim that there was a possibility of the new chief being an nounced sooner rather than later, Express Tribune reported.

Meanwhile, the ISPR said the army chief met officers and men at two garrisons and addressed the troops.

Pakistan Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa has kicked off his fare well visits as the army chief visited Sialkot and Mangla garrisons, said Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) in a statement, ARY News reported.

The military’s media wing in a statement said that COAS Bajwa visited Sialkot and Mangla garrisons as part of his farewell vis its to various formations.

The army chief met officers and men at

both locations and addressed the troops, the ISPR said.

“COAS appreciated formations for their ex cellent performance during various opera tions, training, and natural calamities,” ac cording to the ISPR press release.

During the visit, COAS advised troops to keep serving the nation with the same zeal and commitment no matter what the cir cumstances.

Earlier, on arrival at Sialkot, COAS was re ceived by Lt Gen Muhammad Aamer and by Lieutenant General Ayman Bilal Safdar at Mangla garrison, ARY News reported.

Earlier, General Qamar Javed Bajwa has said that he will not take an extension and retire after five weeks.

The COAS says he has no plans for an exten sion in his tenure and reiterated that he will retire after five weeks, the sources said.

General Bajwa said that the army will not play any role in politics, the sources quoted COAS.

The accused has sought bail, saying there was no need for her custody since the in vestigation is already complete and the charge sheet has been filed. The court had on September 26 granted interim bail on a personal bond of Rs. 50,000.

The court had on August 31 taken cogni zance of a supplementary charge sheet

General Qamar Javed Bajwa

Jacqueline Fernandez

Virtual health research moves forward in Fraser Health

MOVING health care services online so quickly to protect those most at risk of infection and prevent transmission of COVID-19 made it difficult to thoroughly evaluate and research virtual care in the Fraser Health. Now, that research is moving forward, thanks to a three-year, $500,000 grant from the Health Research Foundation of Innovative Medicines Canada.

The Research Team Grant in Virtual Care will enable Fraser Health, in partnership with researchers from Simon Fraser University and the University of British Columbia, to identify innovative ways to communicate virtually with older adults, particularly those with lower socioeconomic status, ethnic minorities and those with disabilities.

The research project titled “Get the Message? Improving Access to Virtual Healthcare for Older Adults” will focus on three types of messaging used to connect health

Known broadly as “patient-provider messaging,” these virtual health solutions can help improve access to care, reduce risk of disease transmission, and help people stay in their homes and out of hospital.

“As we expand our virtual services in the Fraser Health region, we want to ensure groups that are underrepresented in the planning and rollout have a voice,” says Dr. Megan MacPherson, Regional Practice Lead for Research and Knowledge Translation for Virtual Health at Fraser Health. “This grant will afford us the opportunity to address the ‘digital divide’ – that is, who is and isn’t accessing our virtual services and how we can better serve underrepresented people in our region.”

many older Canadians now have access to mobile phones, little information is known about their usage, preferences, and potential limitations (e.g., internet access may be limited for many marginalized populations).

Researchers will interview older adults in the region, including residents of long-term care, family caregivers, volunteers, and staff in care homes.

“Digital transformation is foundational to the delivery of health services now and in the future,” says Dr. Victoria Lee, President and CEO, Fraser Health. “The Research Team Grant in Virtual Care will enable our virtual teams to build on the innovative gains we’ve made and to ensure that we provide equitable care to the residents in our region.

CONSTRUCTION is set to begin on the Highway 1 216th-264th Street Widening Project, which will help relieve congestion for drivers and accommodate more sustainable transportation options for all travellers, he province announced on Thursday.

The replacement of the Glover Road crossing is a key component of the government’s commitment to widen Highway 1 from 216th Street to 264th Street. This is the first of the project’s three major works contracts.

Ground was broken at the project site by Rob Fleming, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure; John Aldag, MP for Cloverdale-Langley City; Megan Dykeman, MLA for Langley East; and Eric Woodward, Mayor of the Township of Langley.

As part of this replacement project, the height clearance of 4.3 metres at the existing crossing will be improved to current standards to a minimum height clearance of 5.2 metres. This will improve safety and ensure that more commercial and oversize

care

to older patients: text messaging, emails, and in-app messaging.

The research team will examine mobile phone ownership, usage, preferences, internet access, and e-health literacy among older adults who access primary care. While

Since 2019, Fraser Health has logged more than 1.8 million virtual visits, with 1.6 million occurring since January 1, 2020.

Highway 1 expansion begins with replacing Glover Road crossing

vehicles are able to travel on this route.

The nearby CP Rail overhead and the 232th Street interchange will also be replaced with higher structures as part of the overall Highway 1 216th-264th Widening Project.

Completion of the Glover Road crossing is anticipated in summer 2024. The other elements of the widening project are expected to be tendered this winter, with work starting by spring 2023. This includes replacement of the existing railway crossing just east of Glover Road, the replacement of the 232nd Street interchange and widening Highway 1 from 216th to 264th to add an extra lane in each direction.

The Highway 1 216th-264th Street Widening Project is valued at $345 million. The Government of Canada is contributing as much as $95.9 million, the Province is contributing $225.58 million and the Township of Langley is contributing the remaining $23.37 million.

The federal contribution is part of the larg-

Component-National and Regional Projects.

Aldag, on behalf of Dominic LeBlanc, federal Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities, said: “This milestone for the project to widen Highway 1 signals our government’s commitment to building better-connected communities and improving the lives of Canadians. The new high-occupancy-vehicle lanes and other upgrades, particularly to active transportation infrastructure, will help more people get where they need to go safely and efficiently while encouraging those in transit to choose more sustainable transportation options.”

Fleming said: “The Glover Road crossing replacement is a major milestone as part of our government’s commitment to widen Highway 1 in the Fraser Valley. These needed upgrades will help get goods moving smoothly along this important trade corridor and make it easier for people to get to work and back home again to their families.”

providers

er $108.9-million Trans-Canada Highway 1 high-occupancy-vehicle lane extension project under the New Building Canada Fund’s Provincial-Territorial Infrastructure

Dr. Megan MacPherson

Rob Fleming

Toxic drugs claimed lives of at least 171 British Columbians in September

TOXIC drugs claimed the lives of at least 171 British Columbians in September, putting the province on track to surpass 2,000 such deaths for a second consecutive year, according to data released by the BC Coroners Service.

“British Columbians are continuing to suffer the tragic effects of a toxic and volatile drug supply, with almost six members of our communities dying each day,” said Lisa Lapointe, Chief Cor oner. “Both those who use drugs occasionally and those who are substance-dependent are at risk of sudden death from the unpredictable illicit market. Individuals who have been absti nent for a period of time or those who normally use stimulants are at increased risk. Their opi oid tolerance is low and the prevalence of fen tanyl in the illicit supply is high.”

The 171 deaths in September are roughly the same as the total reported in August (169) and is equivalent to about 5.7 deaths per day. A to tal of 1,644 lives have been lost to toxic drugs between January and September, which is the largest number ever recorded in the first nine months of a calendar year. Consistent with pre vious reporting, 71% of decedents in 2022 were between 30 and 59, and 79% were male.

September is the 24th consecutive month in which at least 150 deaths suspected to have been caused by illicit drug toxicity were re ported to the BC Coroners Service. The 4,419 lives lost during that two-year period equate to about 184 deaths per month, or just over six

deaths per day.

Illicit drug toxicity is the leading cause of un natural death in British Columbia and is second only to cancers in terms of years of life lost. At least 10,505 British Columbians have been lost to illicit drugs since the public-health emer gency into substance-related harms was first declared in April 2016.

“I am encouraged by the many recommenda tions made by the Select Standing Committee on Health last week that echo those of the recent coroners service death-review panel,” said Lapointe. “Both reports emphasize the need for a statutory framework that encom passes all treatment and recovery services in British Columbia, along with appropriate regu lations, standards, protocols, evaluation and public reporting regarding the measures being taken to address this crisis.”

She added: “It is also clear that the standing committee felt the same urgency as the panel members around the need to increase acces sibility to a safer supply of substances, where and when people need them. It is of critical importance that a safer option be available to the tens of thousands of people in our province

currently at risk of serious harm or death.” Additional key preliminary findings (data is subject to change as additional toxicology re sults are received):

* The townships reporting the highest number of illicit drug toxicity deaths in 2022 are Van couver, Surrey and Greater Victoria.

* By health authority, in 2022 the highest num ber of illicit drug toxicity deaths were in Fraser and Vancouver Coastal health authorities (492 and 457 deaths, respectively), making up 58% of all such deaths.

* By health authority, in 2022 the highest rates of death were in Northern Health (55 deaths per 100,000 individuals) and Vancouver Coast al Health (48 per 100,000). Overall, the rate of death in B.C. is 42 deaths per 100,000 individu als in 2022.

* By Health Service Delivery Area, in 2022 the highest rates of death have been in Vancouver, Northwest, Northern Interior, Thompson Cari boo, and Fraser East.

* By Local Health Area, in 2022 the highest rates of death have been in Lillooet, Cowichan Valley West, Terrace, Alberni/Clayoquot and Merritt.

City of Surrey wins bid to host 55+ BC Games in 2027

SURREY will be host city for the 55+ BC Games in 2027. The BC Seniors Games Society announced the successful host cities for 2024 (Salmon Arm), 2025 (Nanaimo), 2026 (Kam loops), and 2027 (Surrey).

“It is an honour to be chosen as the host city for the 2027 55+ BC Games. Together with our partners, businesses, and community, this sporting event will provide an unforgettable experience for fans, athletes, and member or ganizations,” said Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke. “The opportunity to host the 55+ BC Games will also help showcase amateur sports in British Columbia and give the participants a chance to experience the diverse sporting venues, parks, shopping and dining in our in credible city.”

The 55+ BC Games is an annual, multi-sport event celebrating active and healthy seniors and hosted by a different community in Brit ish Columbia each year. The City of Surrey last hosted the 55+ BC Games in 2001. With five days of competition and cultural events, the 55+ BC Games attracts thousands of athletes from across the province to com

pete in up to 34 sports including soccer, pick leball, tennis, hockey, swimming, lawn and carpet bowling, archery, softball, cycling, and track and field.

“The four cities of Salmon Arm, Nanaimo, Kamloops and Surrey will provide opportunities for their communities to continue to develop their expertise in managing a large commu nity event and to develop volunteers who can provide skills in other events,” said John Buis, President of the BC Seniors Games So ciety. “Our board and members look forward to working with each of these communities in the next few years.”

Further details about the 2027 55+ BC Games in Surrey, including dates and event informa tion will be released as planning for the event progresses.

The City of Surrey thanked its community part ners who assisted in the development of its application for the 55+ BC Games, including its Sport Surrey partners: Discover Surrey and the Surrey Hotel and Motel Association.

The City said its welcoming, world-class, ac cessible, and award-winning facilities, makes

it the premier place for hosting sporting events. The Sport Tourism Strategy has been developed to advance the City of Surrey as a leader in the Sport Tourism industry, maximiz

ing both economic benefits and sport devel opment opportunities.

For information about sport tourism in Surrey, visit surrey.ca/sportsurrey.

Lisa Lapointe

Mercedes -Benz signs Memorandum of Understanding with Government of Canada

Mercedes-Benz and Canada seek to further opportunities in the up-, mid- and downstream mining and refining segments, precursor cathode active material segments, cathode active materials, and in cell manufacturing. MercedesBenz will explore linkages to Can ada’s strong mining and refinery sectors and to explore opportuni ties to utilise and grow Canada’s ecosystems for electric vehicles and automotive parts

MoU supports dialogue and re lationships to facilitate MercedesBenz’s work with strategic partners in Canada, including with Rock Tech Lithium Inc. for the supply of lithium hydroxide. MercedesBenz Group AG and the Govern ment of Canada signed a Memo randum of Understanding (MoU) to explore deeper cooperation

across all stages of the automotive value chain – from technical devel opment and the extraction of raw materials, to production, service life and recycling.

The Kia brand’s most iconic vehicle, the Kia Soul, will receive several modernized upgrades in safety, technology and design for the 2023 model year. The vehicle is set to arrive in deal erships this summer across Canada.

With over 126,000 Soul owners in Canada, the reception of this iconic vehicle has always been remarkable,” says Elias El-Achhab, Chief Operating Officer at Kia Canada. “We’re ec static to introduce a refreshed Kia Soul that we’ve been able to continually innovate when it comes to unique styling and practicality in the subcompact SUV segment.”

Exterior body enhancements refine the unique character of the Soul even further. The front grille becomes more dynamic in styling with increased angular design flanked by re fined headlights. To really stand out on the road available MFR LED headlights, and LED Day time Running Lights (starting at EX) provide the Soul a signature presence and high tech imagery. On the rear, the vehicle maintains it’s very planted stance, but now features a more modern outer lens around the taillights and

The purpose of the MoU is to pro mote cooperation and to explore ways to advance opportunities across Canada’s electric vehicle supply chain, including, but not

simplified rear bumper. New for 2023 is a 17inch wheel design available on the EX+ trim, matching the angular styling of this refreshed model. The GT-Line trim is differentiated with a more aggressive and technical mesh pattern in the grille, body coloured front and rear bumper, a center exit exhaust, chrome garnish extends along the back of the vehicle and new 18-inch alloy wheel design exclusive to this trim. To re ally stand out, opt for the brand-new Surf Blue exterior paint option.

Heading to the interior, the 2023 Soul gets a brand-new steering wheel design and adopts the 4.2inch cluster as seen on the 2023 Sportage. The centre fascia design is more seamless with an optional 10.25-inch AVNT Multimedia Integrated Navigation System fea turing Kia’s impressive Kia Connect Telematics system. The Soul also maintains its spacious passenger and cargo capacities.

The 2023 Soul maintains its 2.0L MPI 4-cylin der engine, delivering 147 horsepower and 132 lb. ft. of torque and 7.9L/100 kilometers of com bined fuel economy. When it comes to driving

limited to securing sustainable sources of raw materials - given Canada and Mercedes-Benz’s mu tual commitments to sustainable development and climate protec tion and their investments towards a cleaner and greener economy of the future.

“Mercedes-Benz is looking to open new ways to responsibly acquire raw materials to rapidly scale up electric vehicle produc tion. Securing direct access to new primary and sustainable sources of raw materials is a vital step down this road. With Canada, MercedesBenz has a strong and capable partner to break new ground for a new era of sustainable transforma tion in the automotive industry,” said Markus Schaefer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, Chief Technology Officer, responsible for Research & Development and Pro curement.

“I welcome that Mercedes-Benz and Canada have signed a Memo

randum of Understanding on bat tery value creation today. This is excellent proof that the coopera tion with our close friends and al lies in Canada is further deepening also in the context of raw material security and may encourage other companies to follow,” said Olaf Scholz, Federal Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany.

“Canada is quickly becoming the green supplier of choice for major auto companies, including leading European manufacturers, as we transition to a cleaner, greener fu ture. By partnering with MercedesBenz, Canada is strengthening its leadership role as a world class automotive innovation ecosystem for clean transportation solutions. Canada is committed to building a strong and reliable automotive and battery supply chain here in North America to help the world meet global climate goals,” said the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innova tion, Science and Industry.

Iconic Kia Soul modernized for 2023

experience, improvements have been made to the Soul’s ride handling as well as reduction in noise, vibration and hardness through the opti mization of sound absorbing materials.

The 2023 Soul also receives some new safety

enhancements to ensure its well equipped with leading-edge technology from Kia’s Ad vanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS)i: Pricing for the Kia Soul starts at $22,595$29,495.

the Toyota 4Runner is legendary for its ready-for-anything attitude and has put a lot of roads and trails in its rear-view mirror over the past 40 years. To celebrate, Toyota designers have crafted the 4Runner 40th An niversary Special Edition. Limited to just 400 vehicles in Canada, this special model leads an all-star lineup of fully capable mid-size SUVs for 2023.

This limited production model is just one of six 4Runner grades on offer for 2023. These cover a broad range of tastes and needs in a high-capability SUV. All start with a common foundation: An authentic body-on-frame chassis featuring a four-link rear axle and coil spring suspension that overcomes pun ishing conditions while conferring impres sive ride quality. Under the hood, a 4.0L V6 delivers 270 peak horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. This is mated to a five-speed ECT-i automatic transmission featuring sequential shift mode, plus either on-demand or fulltime 4WD and a variety of go-anywhere han dling and control technologies, depending on model.

Inside, 4Runner’s cabin is designed to

Windsor, ontario: Dodge is introducing the all-new 2023 Dodge Hornet, delivering the quickest, fastest, most powerful compact utility vehicle (CUV) under $40,000. The 2023 Dodge Hornet disrupts the fast-growing com pact utility vehicle (CUV) segment, building buzz with a distinctive Dodge combination of muscular styling wrapped around best-inclass standard performance from a multi-en ergy powertrain roster and a swarm of classexclusive performance features.

The Dodge Hornet R/T PHEV achieves a segment-leading 285-plus horsepower and 383 lb.-ft. of torque The R/T features a 1.3-li tre turbocharged all-aluminum engine, part of the Stellantis Global Small Engine (GSE) fam ily, which includes exclusive third-generation MultiAir technology that improves combustion efficiency by adjusting valve lift and timing.

The Hornet R/T offers up to an estimated 50 kilometres (30 miles) of all-electric range. An electric induction motor powers the rear axle; the 90-kW electric motor can deliver 1,844 lb.ft. (2,500 Nm) of torque from 0 rpm. Power is

carry five or seven people plus impressive amounts of adventuring gear. Versatility is built in, with 40:20:40 split folding second row seats and, on seven passenger models, a 50:50 fold flat third row seat. Stowing these

further optimized by a 15.5-kWh lithium-ion battery pack, fitted with a refrigerant gas cool ing circuit to keep the battery at its optimum temperature. A starter generator delivers torque to the engine belt, aiding in dynamic response and recharging of the battery. A highpower inverter and 7.4-kW charging module allow for a full battery charge to be reached in approximately 2.5 hours using a Level 2 char ger. The R/T PHEV system is paired with a sixspeed automatic transmission.

The GT is powered by the Hurricane4 en gine, a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline four-cylin der with direct fuel injection and engine stopstart technology, providing iconic dynamic performance to the tune of 265-plus horse power and 295 lb.-ft. of torque, combined with low emissions. The engine is mated to a fully electronic nine-speed transmission. The Hornet GT also features a Sport Mode, easily reachable by a dedicated button on the steer ing wheel, that unlocks a sharper throttle, opti mized shift schedule, access to full power and torque and a tighter steering wheel feel, and

opens up 2,540L (89.7 cubic feet) of cargo ca pacity behind the front seats, allowing 4Run ner to accommodate up to 773 kg (1704 lbs.) of payload. Plus, with its integrated tow hitch receiver and wiring harness, every 4Runner

is ready to tow up to 2,268 kgs (5,000 lbs.).

New for 2023, every 4Runner now offers a heated steering wheel. Other standard fea tures include heated front seats, a 120V and two 12V outlets, the Toyota Smart Key Sys tem with Push Button Start, and Connected Services by Toyota. Models fitted with Audio Plus with Remote include Service Connect, Safety Connect, and Remote Connect, while those fitted with Premium Audio with Re mote add Embedded Navigation with traffic and weather and Destination Assist Connect.

In a 4Runner, every adventure is a safer adventure thanks to an extensive package of safety technologies and systems. These in clude Toyota Safety Sense-P – an advanced bundle of active safety technologies and systems that support driver awareness and decision-making.

Toyota Dealers will offer the Toyota 4Run ner in a half-dozen model and trim configura tions starting from MSRP: $51,050 - $66,220) The 2023 Toyota 4Runner is now on sale at Toyota Dealers across Canada. For complete and up to date details and specifications, visit www.toyota.ca/4Runner

a stiffer suspension setting if equipped with Dual Stage Valve shocks, helping the GT move from 0-97 km/h (0 to 60 mph) in 6.5 seconds. Both powertrains feature standard all-wheel drive. The Hornet R/T PHEV all-wheel drive system adjusts power automatically between the 1.3-litre engine that powers the front axle

and the electric motor that drives the rear wheels, providing optimal traction and control to all four wheels.

The Dodge Hornet GT will begin arriving in dealer showrooms in late 2022, with the Dodge Hornet R/T scheduled to hit show rooms in spring 2023.

Good old Canada and Ca nadiana is front and Centre in Drinkwater. Small town values and attitudes are on abundant display in this quaint little comedy from Route 504 PR at select Cin eplex Cinemas and Land mark Theatres across B.C. Young love, school com petition and family matters all play prominent roles in this coming of age tale. At the centre of all the com motion are the father (?) son team of Hank and Mike Drinkwater. Cast perfectly as this dysfunctional family are Eric McCormack and Daniel Doheny. And yes, there is a girl. There’s al ways a girl. These Drinkwaters are a bit obscure. They aren’t your normal family and are a touch eccentric. Heck their attitudes, manners and way of life are odd. That non-conforming atti tude turns into a millstone around young Mike’s neck at high school especially when it comes to the ladies and a hotshot jock who be comes a competitive thorn in his side. Cue the comedy.

Director Stephen S.Campanelli has done just a ton of work as a camera operator and as director he does a wonderful job show casing the natural beauty of Penticton British Colum bia. Solid acting and a neat, though time honored story

Phone:604-502-6100 Fax:604-501-6111 Email:voiceclassified@gmail.com

ALLADSMUSTBE PREPAID

I, Jagdeep Singh Goraya, son of Gurnam Singh, holder of Indian Passport No. M2051961, issued at Chandigarh on 18/09/2014, resident of Ward No. 14, Jiwan Nagar Road near Goshala, Tehsil Rania, Sirsa, Haryana, India 125076, and presently residing at 6856 Clevedon Drive, Surrey, BC, Canada V3W6H6 , do hereby change my name from Jagdeep Singh to Jagdeep Singh Goraya with immediate effect.

line that’s somewhat remi niscent of that underdog never say die attitude so well pioneered in movies like The Karate Kid ring true in Drinkwater.

For more reviews please visit my website moviere viewssite.com

Jatt Singh 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. Please contact 604-562-4473. *********

Need Suitable match for Punjabi Ramgharia boy [Clean Shaven], 1987 born, 5’8”, MBA, IT Project Manager in MNC in India. Sister Canadian PR. Contact 604-727-5680 *********

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

Suitable match for NRI Kamboj Sikh boy PR,Veg,30 years, 5’11’’ B.Tech, PG diploma from Canada,doing Govt job in BC,Own house in Canada,Parents retired Govt. employee,rural and urban property,upper caste welcome.+1-778-386-2812

Well settled Jat Sikh family looking for suitable match for their handsome 27 years old , 6’ Canadian born clean shaven son working as a software engineer. Girl should be Canadian born,well educated, beautiful and family oriented. For more info call 604 585 7777. *********

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

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

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

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

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

GROOM WANTED

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

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

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

Phone 778 840 3282 *********

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Housing Market Faces High Rates and Slowing Economy in 2023

BCREA 2022 Fourth Quarter Housing Forecast

Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) residential sales in BC are forecast to de cline 34.4 per cent from a record high 2021 to 82,345 units this year. In 2023, MLS® residential sales are forecast to fall an addition al 11.4 per cent to 72,960 units.

“ The factors that drove unprecedented housing market activity over the past two years, includ ing record low mortgage rates, buyer preference for extra space and the ability to work remotely, are now unwinding,” said BCREA Chief Economist Brendon Ogmundson. “As a result, there has been a signifi cant shift in the housing market, which we antici pate will continue through 2023.”

With continued high-inter est rates and what looks like a difficult 2023 ahead for the Canadian economy, we anticipate that mar ket activity is going to fall below normal levels next year. On the supply side, slow sales activity has led to an increase in inven tory, but from record lows. The rapid shift in market conditions has weighed on prices in the second half of this year, though

active listings growth has slowed and is short of lev els where we tend to see more substantial down ward pressure on prices. However, price levels have fallen from their peak ear lier this year, so even flat prices from current levels will translate to the provin cial average price being d own about 5 per cent in 2023.

VancouVer, Bc: The British Columbia Real Es tate Association (BCREA) released its 2022 Fourth Quarter Housing Forecast today.

AN old Irish proverb says, “A good laugh and a long sleep are the best cures in the doctor’s book.” But research suggests it would be wiser to think of good sleep as an ingredient of wellbeing – a starting point for health, not a fixer-upper. Sleep is an essential building block of good health, along with quality nutrition, moder ate exercise, socioeconomic connectivity, mindfulness, and ample good luck. Guidelines recommend “7 to 9 hours of good-quality sleep for adults aged 18 to 64, on a regular basis, with consistent sleep and wake times for health benefits.” For adults aged 65 and older, a slightly modi fied “7 to 8 hours of sleep” is advised. But sleep is too often neglected – insuffi cient in both quantity and quality.

According to a global sleep survey, 62% of adults worldwide feel they don’t sleep well when they go to bed. Surveys show that North Americans, on average, sleep just under 7 hours a night. Some are get ting more – and good for them. Some are getting less – with serious consequences. Poor quality sleep has harmful implica tions for insomniacs. The U.S. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute reports, “Sleep deficiency is linked to many chron ic health problems, including heart dis ease, kidney disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke, obesity, and depression.”

But drowsy people have negative implica tions for other people too. Lack of sleep is a major factor in deadly car accidents and other transportation tragedies. Both the Chernobyl nuclear plant disaster and the Exxon Valdez oil spill involved workers af fected by sleep deprivation.

Although people commonly try to “catch up” on sleep during the weekend, studies have found this to be a losing strategy. For one thing, less weekday sleep equates to later nights, awake and snacking, which leads to weight gain and involves chal lenges in managing diabetes, for example. It may be disappointing to learn more bad news. Research now shows that even long periods of sufficient sleep don’t make up for sleep deficits. Not getting good sleep? The damage is done.

Scientists are starting to unpack exactly what kind of problems develop from lack of good sleep. One study found that con sistently losing an hour and a half of sleep a night can increase the risk of inflamma tory disorders and cardiovascular disease. The study, published in the Journal of Ex perimental Medicine, showed that sleep disruptions in both humans and mice led to the same loss in the protective effects of their immune systems “actually mak ing infections worse”. In effect, poor sleep causes trouble in blood cell production, leading to overproduction of white blood cells that normally fight infections, but the overabundance instead results in inflam mation.

Another study involving more than 7,000 men and women at the ages of 50, 60 and 70, found that people at age 50 get ting five hours of sleep or less were “20% more likely to have been diagnosed with a chronic disease and 40% more likely to be diagnosed with two or more chronic dis eases over 25 years, compared to people who slept for up to seven hours.”

Those are big differences! Those two more hours of sleep gives the body enough time to complete one full sleep cycle, allowing brain and body to recuperate and immune systems to function effectively.

Poor sleep can lead to inflammatory problems

What are some tips for healthy sleep?

Get natural daylight exposure. Limit alco hol before bed. Eliminate noise and light disruptions. And at bedtime, allow into the mind those things that sooth the soul. These days, that means turning off the eve ning news and turning instead to a good book.

Sign-up at www.docgiff.com to receive our weekly e-newsletter. For comments, con tact-us@docgiff.com. Follow us on Insta gram @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 Gif

ford-Jones. Diana is Special Advisor with The Aga Khan University. She worked for ten years in the Human Development sec

tors at the World Bank, including health policy and economics, nutrition, and pop ulation health.