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Fiji News

Friday December 21, 2012

Family Escapes High Winds


HOMES in Vitogo Village, Lautoka, suffered the brunt of Tropical Cyclone Evan's high wind on Monday night with many homes in the village left without their roofs. Emosi Vananalagi's house was among one of the many that were left roofless. When visited at Vitogo Village, Mr Vananalagi was repairing the damage caused by TC Evan. "In the afternoon the winds were very strong, I never expected that they would actually do this to my house," the Vitogo native said. He explained that he was sheltering with his spouse and three children inside the house when the wind blasted through his front door. "I heard my daughter screaming that the wind was pushing the door in so I grabbed a wooden board to try and reinforce the door. "But the wind pushed the door in and knocked me back into the house, then the force of the wind took the roof off the house from the inside," Mr Vananalagi said. He said when the roof was taken off; he took his family to the village hall to spend the night. The Tropik Pine employee remained thankful that his wife and three children were safe. "I just thank God that we are safe and that no one was hurt."

Labasa Hospital Roof Torn Off


STRONG winds of Tropical Cyclone Evan ripped off part of the Labasa Hospital roof on Monday. Workers were on the rooftop nailing down the roof as hospitals in the North only received emergency cases. Ministry of Health acting permanent secretary Dr Josefa Koroivueta said hospitals around Vanua Levu would only treat emergency cases until further notice. "No emergency cases have been received in hospitals so far around the division as a direct result of the Tropical Cyclone Evan. "We are also aware that the Labasa Hospital roof is currently damaged after strong winds peeled through the roof." Dr Koroivueta said the Commissioner Northern's office was still in charge of all government operations which included hospitals. "We are also aware that the roof of the Labasa Hospital has been damaged as a result of strong winds. We are still awaiting a report on the damage done to the roof to determine its value."

Flood waters from the rewa river took just about four hours tuesday to flood low-lying areas close to nausori town. Rewa river bursts: The rewa river has spilled inland. Residents near navuso found floodwaters rising quickly early in the morning. Satya nand, of hasmat avenue, said the water level rose pretty fast. Early in the morning at 4am i could see the water at the back of our shop and we knew the swells had occurred from the river. The majority of the houses were flooded in just hours. Police guide: Police stepped up their operations in the region to guide flood-threatened people to evacuation centers. They used small boats to ferry passengers from their homes to evacuation centers. However, many

Flood Waters Threatened Rewa Delta Area

Fijians Allowed To Return Home In Wake Of Evan

wished to remain in their homes. Police officer rajesh lal said they had been working since eight oclock in the morning. Police also monitored vehicle traffic because the roads were also flooded. Evacuation centers: People were evacuated to the dilkusha girls school and the latter day saints church at jalim avenue. Meanwhile, residents living in the rewa river delta and nearby areas were advised to move to higher ground or the nearest evacuation centre immediately. Ulumila vatulawalawa said her family had to move to the centre because a live power line had fallen just near their home. With flood waters rising she felt it was hazardous and they quickly left. Farmers also moved their animals to higher ground. Syria park in nausori was also under water.

Fijians who have been sheltering in evacuation centers have been given the all clear to return home and assess the damage from Cyclone Evan. A state of disaster has been declared after Evan hit the Pacific island nation on Monday morning, causing widespread damage to several cities, including Nadi. More than 8,000 who people took shelter in evacuation centers across the island have now been told they can return to their properties. But the Fijian government has warned them that their houses may be seriously damaged. Delas Whippy lost everything when a tree smashed into his home. "We were hiding here, myself and my wife, we were in here when the tree fell on it and the top just burst through," he said. Australian aid workers say thousands of people have been left homeless. AUSAid has sent 36 tonnes of emergency supplies to Fiji, including tarpaulins and 1,500 family care

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packages. Power and communications are still down in parts of the nation, and there is no clear indication of when they will be restored. But flights in and out of Fiji have resumed and running water is being gradually restored. Some parts of Fiji recorded up to 200mm of rain in a 24-hour period as the category four storm passed to the north-western side of the main Fijian islands of Vanua Levu and Viti Levu. Winds of up to 270 kilometers per hour destroyed homes, roads and bridges, and heavy rains caused widespread flooding. Authorities say there have been no reported casualties, unlike in neighbouring Samoa, where Evan killed at least four people late last week and left another 10 missing. But the fallout from Cyclone Evan may not be over. Officials in New Zealand say the storm is headed their way, and despite being weakened could bring heavy rain and flooding this weekend.

Friday December 21, 2012

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Family welfare comes first, said Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama during a briefing at the Commissioner Westerns office. He was briefed by the heads of various organizations including government departments, the Red Cross and the Lautoka City Council. Just a day after the Western Division suffered the wrath of category four cyclone Evan, he reminded those present that basic necessities such as water, electricity and public services should be readily available. We have to restore water and electricity, at the same time we have to clear the debris first. Commissioner Western Commander Joeli Cawaki said assistance would be readily available to those affected by the Cyclone. However he said, All those deployed for assessment have yet to come back, but it is big damage. Lautoka special administrator Praveen Bala said the damage caused was huge. It is massive. Any street you enter you see fallen trees, the power poles with the lines. But we are on our feet. We have prepared ourselves now for the operation and we are doing it. We are looking at it. By this weekend Lautoka city should be in full swing. At this point in time my engineers are out. They are assessing and after that we will be able to reveal the damage caused to council properties. Red Cross Fiji Lautoka branch president Faiaaz Ali is calling on volunteers to be part of the operation. I am pleading with those expatriates in health, this is a volunteer organization please come forward, on board, he said. All the cyclones have only one policy, they dont see rich or poor, colour, religion and spare no one. Meanwhile, the reporter visited homes in the west and saw damage to infrastructure, educational institutions, churches, temples and a number of houses.

Hundreds of people bid farewell to the golden voice of the Fijian community, broadcaster Rakesh Chand. The funeral service was attended by Chands family and friends, radio personals, radio listeners, staff of Radio Fiji Mirchi, the media, the business community and other organisations. Chand, 43, was the President and CEO of Radio Fiji Mirchi, passed away last Sunday at Vancouver General Hospital following a long battle with cancer. Those that knew Chand, as well as many who didn't, attend the public memorial service Thursday at Riverside Funeral Home in Delta to pay their final respect. In a stirring eulogy, the Radio Fiji Mirchi Sports Director Umesh Chand, while paying tribute to the long time presenter and friend, said Chand was a hardworking and a loyal worker and would be always remembered.

Rocking Rakesh Chand

Rakesh was a talent unique that comes so very often, Umesh Ratu said. I cant put into words how honoured I was, let alone the local Fijian community to have a man that had impacted lives with his voice. Umesh Ratu said Chand was a man bigger than life. Chand began his career in the radio industry at Radio Rim Jhim working with famed BBC broadcaster Sushma Datt. He later moved to Radio India and in 2008 he started Canadas first 24- hour Hindi radio station, Radio Fiji Mirchi. He was also an avid sports fanatic, who brought live soccer commentaries of major tournaments from Fiji. Chand is survived by his wife Neeta, 1 daughter Pooja, Parents Mr & Mrs Dhir Chand , 5 brothers 1 sister and the extended family.

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Fiji News

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Westpac Hosts A Party For Needy Children


Westpac Fiji hosted a party for the Foundation for the Education of the Needy Children (FENC) Fiji at their Suva branch. This was part of the banks social initiative of Giving Trees, a buildup to Christmas of giving to the less fortunate. Westpac general manager, Adrian Hughes said: The Giving Tree is our way of ensuring that people who cant afford to buy a gift for themselves or their children feel cared about this festive season. Its such a simple thing to do and our employees love taking their own tag and sourcing a terrific gift for someone who would be grateful for it. Whether its an item of clothing, a book, musical instrument or toy. FENC Fiji programme coordinator Mere Tikoduadua-Fonua said it was rewarding to see the smile on the childrens faces. Nothing beats the smile on these childrens faces because all of them come from families who are not

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able to support their education, Mr Tikoduadua-Fonua said. We are very grateful to Westpac for taking the initiative and the time to host these children.. FENC Fiji is a non-political, not-

for-profit, cause-oriented, voluntary organisation with a mission to provide education and related support to the under privileged children in Fiji. The foundation currently supports 1000 children around the country.

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FIJI'S currency has world standard security features that make it difficult for criminals to reproduce or counterfeit despite about $100million being laundered annually through financial systems. In light of the recent launch of the country's new flora and fauna bank notes and coins, Fiji Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) director Razim Buksh said Fiji had low levels of counterfeit cases. "The cases reported on counterfeit currencies were usually done by petty criminals or otherwise referred to as casual counterfeit cases that did not involve organized criminal syndicates or use of commercial printing outlets for bulk counterfeiting," Mr Buksh said. "This amount ($100m) includes financial transactions suspected to be involved in fraud, proceeds of crime

Currency Security
and tax evasion." He said the amount involved in local banknote counterfeit transactions was negligible. Mr Buksh said key security features in the new currency were expected to further mitigate and reduce counterfeiting risks in Fiji. Those features include: * The use of watermark in the $10, $20, $50 and $100 notes; * A see-through feature that matches a white circle on the front of the notes with patterned graphic at the back of the note; * The use of metallic security thread; * Hidden "FIJI" text on the $10, $20, $50 and $100 notes; * The use of a foil on the $10 notes and a hologram on $20 notes; * The $100 notes have additional security features of a colour changing thread and an holographic stripes; and * The $10, $20, $50 and $100 notes

have a raised intaglio bars and a raised printing. Mr Buksh said the enhanced security features would certainly serve as a deterrent for counterfeit and fraud. "Criminals may capitalise on the use of latest technology to reproduce our currency notes, however, our banknotes have some very strong securities that would be difficult to replicate or reproduce." He said some of the security features were easily identifiable and therefore any ordinary person would be able to easily distinguish a counterfeit note from the genuine one.
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Fiji News

Friday December 21, 2012

Major Clean-Up In The Western Division

A major clean-up is underway in the Western Division as the nation gets back on its feet after the impact of Tropical Cyclone Evan. Initial damage assessments are also being done but first on the agenda is a major clean-up that will involve the removal of debris, dirt brought in through the isolated flooding and destruction of structures due to the hurricane gale force winds. Ministry of Information permanent secretary, Ms Sharon Smith-Johns, said all Fijians from all walks life have been putting in their best efforts to get the most affected areas to its feet. The clean-up got a kick-start Tuesday when 60 inmates from Suva were deployed to Nadi and Sigatoka to clean-up the jet-set town and the Coral Coast, which receives the most number of visitors in the country, with another team of inmates from Vaturekuka helping out in the clean up in Labasa.

Commissioner Prisons Lieutenant Colonel Ifereimi Vasu said they wanted all major centers up and running before the end of the week. Another team of 77 inmates from the Natabua and Ba prisons have been cleaning up Lautoka in the aftermath of Cyclone Evan. Also joining in the efforts are military personnel who have been on standby since last weekend when TC Evan was to first hit the country. Some 530 soldiers are out and about around the country cleaning up hotels, resorts, towns and communities including those who cleaned up two resorts in the Western Division. RFMF Commander Operation Lieutenant Colonel Amani Suliano said the RFMF will assist whatever ways possible to restore normalcy and help families. "Four hundred soldiers are in the western division and another 130 up in the north," he said.

The Ministry of Social Welfare, Women and Poverty Alleviation requests all individuals in particular the social welfare recipients, who have been badly affected by Tropical Cyclone Evan, to contact their nearest social welfare officers to register for assistance they may need. Those families, who have been badly affected by Tropical Cyclone Evan, can seek for assistance through various social welfare programs. We sympathize with families in the Western, Central and Northern Divisions who have lost all their belongings and sustained damages to their livelihoods. The ministry is aware that there are some people who couldnt save anything and now are incapable of supporting their livelihood due to the devastating effects of Tropical Cyclone Evan, the Ministry of Social Welfare, Women and Poverty Alleviation

Welfare To Assist The Affected Families

permanent secretary Govind Sami said. The ministry will work together with offices of the divisional commissioners to identify such individuals, families and ensure they are assisted. Divisional and district social welfare officers will be available to attend to any requests from individuals. The ministry will work with other government ministries and DISMAC office to provide assistance, Mr Sami said. Assistance will also be provided to underprivileged children through the Care and Protection Program (C&P). We have social welfare and women officers throughout the country and their role will be critical in working together with DISMAC to collect information about families who genuinely need assistance. The priority at this stage is to bring stability in the lives of people affected by Cyclone Evan, Mr Sami said.

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Bhika Bhai Signs Sweet Deal


BHIKHA Bhai & Company Limited (BBC) will open its third branch at the Damodar City Centre in March next year. The locally-owned family business, which has served Fiji with quality Indian sweets and snacks for over three generations, signed a deal with Damodar Brothers franchise on Wednesday as a tenant in the multimillion dollar complex which is presently under construction. "The new Suva branch will showcase new concepts and we are confident that our customers will enjoy their shopping experience and choices," said company director Viraaj Lad. He said their new branch would make the sale of their products more accessible to people in Suva and surrounding areas. "With connecting flights from Nausori to Nadi for overseas travellers, customers can now easily add a 'Fiji Style' Indian sweets and snacks as gifts that are unique to Fiji. "We will be employing six or seven full-time employees who will be trained and skilled in-house." The company serves a wide range of Indian sweets like jalebi, six varieties of barfi, mohanthar, mesur, khaja, laddu and peda. All their sweets are made from quality local ingredients and core products like ghee and milk imported directly from New Zealand. All products are manufactured at their production facility in hometown, Ba. They first opened their branch in 2009 at Martintar, Nadi.

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Friday December 21, 2012

Fiji News

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Lautoka Worst Hit


Lautoka was the worst hit by Cyclone Evan nationwide, confirms Fijis National Disaster Management office (NDMO) as two evacuation centers have closed with only 190 still active providing shelter to 11,680 evacuees. Nadi was also affected by the cyclone, but the damage was not as extensive as the floods that ravaged the West in March early this year, said director DISMAC Manasa Tagicakibau. Damages were evident mostly to dwelling houses, he said. In an update to the media, Tagicakibau said waters have receded and a 16-man team has been sent out to assist their counterparts in the West. Most places in the West are still without power, but water supply has been restored. In an aerial survey conducted in the North, there were a lot of structural damages particularly in Bua, Udu and Cikobia. Structural damages to dwelling houses meaning that most of them had their roofs blown-off, said Tagicakibau. In Vanua Levu, most of the basic essential services have been restored including power and water supply and clearing of roads, he said. Tagicakibau said their immediate focus now is to provide relief to the affected as directed by Prime Minister Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama. Meanwhile, two out of 230 evacuation centers have closed, both in the central division. No time-frame has been given when other evacuees will return to their homes, Tagicakibau saying it would be after all assessments are completed and damages fixed. He said assessment teams are still out in the field and will continue to provide food rations to evacuees. Discussions continue with the diplomatic corp and other organisations for assistance towards relief efforts. The Ministry of Education has also advised all schools to assess damages to their respective schools and communicate this back to Assistance to relief efforts Since Tuesday, offer of assistance have been flooding in with the New Zealand Govt committing $220,000 to relief efforts and the Australian Govt pitching in with F$1.85million. The Fiji Development Bank has come forward to assist its clients who have sustained damages to property, business and live hoods during the cyclone. FDB chief executive officer, Deve Toganivalu said FDB is now offering assistance for clients who have been adversely affected. All applications for a moratorium will be assessed on a case-by-case basis and affected clients are urged to contact their portfolio officers or the branch manager nearest them to begin the process. We are also open to any new applications for further loan assistance for the same purpose, Toganivalu said. A delay in payment schedule, freeze on interest and interest only repayment are the beneficiaries which the clients will get. The Latter Day Saints (LDS) church has also has come onboard with a donation of $21,000 dollars worth of food rations for cyclone affected victims. The donation was handed to the DISMAC Office through donations by church members. These donations will assist people in this great time of need when there is no proper food supply and we at the church are always forthcoming to provide the support for those in need during such times, LDS Manager Service Centre, Taniela Wakalo said. Ministry of Social Welfare, Women and Poverty Alleviation has also come board to provide assistance. The ministrys permanent secretary, Govind Sami said they will work together with offices of the divisional commissioners to identify affected individuals, families and ensure they are assisted. Assistance will also be provided to underprivileged children through the Care and Protection Program. The Housing Authority has also advised all its home loan customers whose properties have suffered damages as a result of Cyclone Evan to immediately report the loss to their nearest Housing Authority Customer Relations Centre. Home owners will need to collect and complete the Insurance Claim form and return it no later than January 17, 2013. The authority reminds all that damage must be over $1,250 to be claimable. Evacuation centre stats: Northern Division: 45 centers opened housing 3715 evacuees Western Division: 63 centers housing 3523 evacuees Central Division: 67 centers housing 3949evacuees Eastern Division: 15 centers housing 493 evacuees

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Fiji News

HUNDREDS of Australian holiday-makers left stranded by the worst tropical storm to hit Fiji in living memory finally began to return home from the troubled Pacific island nation.

Aussies Fly Out Of StormRavaged Fiji

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Trevor Schodel with wife Sherie and daughters Caprice, Montana and Jade from Sylvania Waters, Sydney, prepare to fly home from Nadi airport after spending 24 hours in lockdown at their hotel when Cyclone Evan hit Fiji Families who have spent the past few efforts that are now taking place. days in lockdown at their hotels while The Schodel family, from Sydney's Cyclone Evan raged outside formed Sylvania Waters, spent 24 hours in long queues at Nadi airport, on the lockdown with hundreds of others at island's west coast, after flights out of Sofitel, sleeping on the hotel floor the country were resumed. and unable to contact family at They leave behind a country where an home. estimated 14,000 Fijians are still living "It was a shame - it was beautiful in evacuation centers, amid fears of when we got here - but the staff looked a possible outbreak of dengue fever, after us. They were great," said Trevor cholera or elephantiasis, carried by Schodel, 41. floodwater that followed the storm. Like many others in the airport Tony and Lisa Pryde, from Menai in queue, the family of five received no Sydney, arrived in Fiji the day before confirmation they were going to get the category 4 storm struck, to celebrate seats on a plane Wednesday before their birthdays with their 15-month old reaching the check-in desk. daughter Isadora. "Now, we're just looking forward to They have spent much of the time getting home for Christmas," said since in lockdown, confined to the Sherie Schodel, 40. windowless ballroom of the Sheraton Thousands of Australians are thought Hotel along with hundreds of other to have been in Fiji when the storm guests, to shelter from winds that struck and the Australian government reached up to 270km/h. has since committed $1 million to the "I left my old job, so I had a bit of recovery effort, with a military flight money from the payout and we thought carrying essential supplies. 'no birthday presents, no Christmas AusAID Minister Counselor in Fiji, presents, we'll just save it up and come John Davidson, said many of the here'," Mr Pryde, 46, said. poorest people had been hit hardest "All we've been able to do is sit in a and while there have been no reported dark room, listen to the sirens and try casualties; he was worried about the to entertain a one-year-old." potential for outbreak of diseases. After the cyclone passed "we looked "There's been a pretty good rapid out of our window and it was just response so far, but when you look at devastation, and sad", Mrs Pryde the enormity of what people are facing, said. Like other hotel guests, they this isn't going to be cured in the shortvolunteered to help with the clean-up term," he said.

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Friday December 21, 2012

FOSTER'S Group Pacific Limited (FGPL) has changed its name to Paradise Beverages (Fiji) Limited following the successful completion of regulatory processes. The name change, effective from December 11 this year, was a resolution passed and adopted at the company's annual general meeting on November 21. Coca-Cola Amatil Limited (CCA) spokeswoman Sally Loane said Paradise Beverages was chosen because the new owner, CCA, wanted a name that would reflect the beautiful part of world - Fiji. "The other reason was that it was inappropriate to continue the business under the name of a previous owner," she said. "The name change reflects the new owner and a new direction. CCA is investing significantly in the business to ensure that it will grow and also to enable our ability to significantly

Name Change

increase export markets. "We want to create Paradise Beverages as a hub of beer and rum production in the Pacific region." Ms Loane said the only costs incurred for the name change were the standard costs associated with lodgment.

She said the most significant change was CCA's investment in capital to increase capacity and grow the company's export business. "The main emphasis has been on growing the domestic market and this has been successful but has limited

room for growth," she said. "Under our new ownership and their investment in the business, we are busy developing new products and export markets." Meanwhile, the company recently announced plans to release premium rum products into the export market. It was also awarded the distribution of a number of international beers such as Corona, adding this marked great confidence in the capability of the new company. CCA had obtained the right to acquire FGL's Fiji business early this year. The right to buy the Fiji business followed the SABMiller purchase of FGL, the parent company of FGPL. The majority shareholder of FGL by an Australian subsidiary of SABMiller had received notice from CCA confirming that it wished to proceed with the acquisition of the Fiji business (CCA acquisition).

Budget Benefits
INCENTIVES offered by the 2013 Budget will benefit investments in the country, says Investment Fiji chief executive officer Ravuni Uluilakeba. The incentives would also mean greater awareness for potential local and foreign investors. He said the removal of the $250,000 minimum investment requirement and the reduction of corporate tax from 20 to 17 per cent would attract a lot of investors. "A corporate tax of 17 per cent is one of the lowest you can see across the Asia-Pacific region," he said. "When you look at the investment numbers coming into the country, we have bettered our targets." He said registrations for investments were almost over 20 per cent. "Regarding implementation, we are well our target of $600m. It shows confidence of investors and at the same time creates more ease of doing business into the country." The World Bank ranking placed Fiji's ease of doing business status as 60 compared to 77 last year.

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Fiji News

Friday December 21, 2012

11

Fijian Prime Minister Briefed On G77 Chairmanship

Frozen Chicken In Good Supply


MEMBERS of the public can be assured they will find ample supply of frozen chicken at their supermarkets this festive season. Goodman Fielder's general manager Chris Zaayman said the only reason for a shortage would be a failure of supermarkets' storage system because of the effects of Tropical Cyclone Evan. "Our chicken is in full supply and we are working closely with all supermarkets Fiji-wide to ensure that our consumers have ease of supply of any bird profile of their choice," he said. "This however, is conditional based on supermarket holding due to the effects of Tropical Cyclone Evan." Mr Zaayman said all their frozen chickens were safely stored in sites that were equipped with backup generators. "Food safety is paramount with Goodman Fielder Fiji." He added that frozen chickens from sizes 9 to 23 were in good supply and the public could find these in their respective supermarkets. "The consumers of Fiji can be rest assured the supply of Crest Chicken will be plentiful Fiji wide," he said.

Free Call Treat For Customers


ALL Digicel prepaid and post pay customers will receive $5 free credit as part of efforts from the mobile phone company to assist with emergency communication in the aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Evan. Digicel Fiji chief executive officer, Maurice McCarthy said Digicel was concerned about the devastation that TC Evans had on communities. "Our responsibility is to help all the victims of the recent cyclone," he said. "Digicel stands ready to wholeheartedly assist in the recovery process over the coming weeks." Digicel Fiji also confirmed that all send and receive money fees for its international money transfer service will have no charges until further notice. Using Digicel's mobile money website (www.digicelmobilemoney.com) customers can instantly access money sent home directly from bank accounts of family and friends in Australia and New Zealand to a mobile phones in Fiji. A statement from Digicel stated that the funds would arrive in minutes into the Digicel phone in Fiji and the recipient can visit any ANZ, BSP, Westpac, Post Fiji branch or Digicel flagship stores to collect the money at no charge. Customers can also top up their phone credit or transfer money domestically from their Digicel phone.

Fijis election to the chairmanship of the G77 reflects the confidence by the international community in having Fiji preside over international matters. Fijis permanent representative to the United Nations Ambassador Peter Thomson highlighted that more than 130 developing countries from the Asia Pacific region supported Fijis Chairmanship of the G77 and that Fiji will need to work hard to carry out its duties. Ambassador Peter Thomson joined members of the G77 in presenting to the Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama on the next steps that will need to be taken. Ambassador Thomson also briefed the Prime Minister of the handing over ceremony that will take place in New York in January next year. Before his briefing with the Prime Minister and members of cabinet,

Ambassador Thomson also briefed media outlets on the process leading towards Fijis election to chairmanship and the next step towards handing over. Ambassador Thomson was accompanied by the G77 plus China executive general secretary Mr Mourad Ahmia who also briefed the Prime Minister on Fijis newest international responsibilities. Mr Ahmia has written several publications related to the G77 and the United Nations. Mr Ahmia reminded media outlets that Fijis chairmanship marks a new chapter not only in Fijis international history but also that for Pacific islands. He said that Fiji is the first country in the region to be elected to chair the G77. Meanwhile Prime Minister Bainimarama is expected to travel to New York next year for the handing over ceremony.

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People are advised to continue to boil water before drinking in the aftermath of Cyclone Evan and flash flooding in the Central/Eastern division. Ministry of Health non-communicable diseases (NCD) national adviser Dr Isimeli Tukana says it is the normal call and people must make sure they have safe water. We are always urging people to continue to drink boiled water, Dr Tukana said. There have been severe floods in the Central/Eastern division and parts of the Western Division. Water Authority of Fiji is carting water in the different areas but please continue to boil them before drinking. He added that for those that have green coconuts available to them could drink them as they have nutrient values and is healthy. He urged people to also practice good hygiene when preparing food for their families.

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The New Zealand government is giving an additional 2.9 million Fijian dollars to Fiji to assist the next stage of recovery from tropical cyclone Evan. It comes on top of an initial package of $684,798 to help with the immediate relief efforts. Foreign Affairs Minister Murray

McCully said they will distribute the money in consultation with relevant agencies. McCully said also an Air Force Orion that has been searching for missing people off Samoa for several days moved to Fiji late Wednesday to undertake similar work.

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Fiji News

Friday December 21, 2012

12-Hour Shift Plan Gets Mixed Reaction


The new 12-hour shift trialed on various specific areas in the three major hospitals in Fiji has received mixed reactions from nurses. Director Nursing Services Selina WaqaLedua said this was to be expected as the Ministry of Health looks at its workability to determine its future in Fiji. Like anything new, what we wanted to do was trial it, get our data together, she said. There have been some groups who have gone ahead and done a perception survey on how the nurses feel. It is practically very new. Its a new shift system, new to Fiji, but not necessarily new to other countries. Samoa has it. New Zealand and Australia have it. What we wanted to see was that it was workable in Fiji and get some evidencebased information that will determine the future of the 12-hour shift, Mrs Waqa-Ledua told the media after the graduation ceremony for the TISI Sangam School of Nursing in Labasa. When inquired why the new shift system was only trialed in the three major hospitals in Fiji, namely Labasa Hospital, Lautoka Hospital and Colonial War Memorial Hospital (CWM), Mrs Waqa-Ledua replied it had to do with the staffing level. And for any 12-hour shift, the main cornerstone of it is having a very good staffing level, she said. That is why we are not implementing it throughout Fiji, we are only trialing it out in the three major hospitals. However, we are not trialing it throughout the hospitals. We are only trialing it on various identified specific areas in these hospitals. Mrs Waqa-Ledua added one of the major reasons the new shift system was brought in was to reduce nursing overtime. Once this is achieved, Mrs Waqa-Ledua said ample funds would be available to recruit more nurses. The main issue we trying to look at are its impacts, its advantages and disadvantages, she said. We are also looking at how it benefits the nurse, the system and patient care in terms of continuity. At the same time we are looking at the indicators around us. This new shift system that is currently on trial has economical benefits. So, we are basically looking at its disadvantages and ways we can work around them and solve them. We should be able to look at areas we can reduce nursing overtime. Once we are able to reduce nursing overtime, we should have ample funds to recruit more nurses. It is unknown how long the trial will go on. The Fiji Nursing Association has not commented on the trial or how it affects nurses in general.

Hit And Run


A mother of two remains admitted at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital in Suva after she was a victim of a hit-and-run incident on Wednesday morning at Princes Road, Tamavua. Anaseini Kasaimatuku, 33, a civil engineer with Carpenters Fiji Ltd, recovered from a coma after she was hit by a car while on her early morning walk with her husband near the Home of Compassion in Tamavua. Mrs Kasaimatuku had only just been discharged from the hospital, two weeks ago, after giving birth to her second child. Police did not reveal more information but the driver was questioned over the accident. A witness, Sakiasi Ditoka, who recorded the car registration numbers and called 911 said the accident happened at about 6.30am. He also claimed that some taxis and cars did not stop to help Mrs Kasaimatuku to hospital. Mrs Kasaimatukus work colleagues said her husband had to run from the accident scene to Mobil Superfresh Service Station to get a car and rushed her to hospital.

Social Welfare Recipients Can Seek Cyclone Assistance


Social Welfare recipients who are badly affected by Tropical Cyclone Evan can seek assistance through various social welfare programs. Permanent Secretary of Social Welfare Govind Sami said assistance will also be provided to underprivileged children through the Care and Protection Program. He said the ministry is working with the Divisional Commissioners to identify individuals and families to ensure they are assisted. He said they are also working with other government ministries and DISMAC to provide assistance.

Chinese Company Helps Out


Aid for victims of Tropical Cyclone Evan has begun pouring in from the private sector. One of the first to deliver, the Suvabased China Railway First Group (Fiji) Co. Limited, personally delivered a consignment of supplies to Naviyago Village outside Lautoka. The outreach was commended by Commissioner Western Commander Joeli Cawaki, as the donations will also complement emergency rations from Government and other donors such as Red Cross Fiji and Australian and New Zealand Aid. A statement from the company said the gesture was just the beginning of help for Evan victims and they had pledged more assistance to the Prime Minister and his team during the cyclone rehabilitation. Supplies from the locally-registered company included rice, flour, mattresses and blankets which were received with much appreciation from Naviyago villagers in Vitogo district. Village headmen Rusiate Deitu said seven houses were completely destroyed in the furor of Evan, with six houses losing their roofs. One hundred and seventy people are still at the village community hall, including 29 children and a baby. I thank the Chinese company for their generosity. This is a really big help as most families lost household items. We also suffered a lot during the floods and I thank all these people who are helping us, Mr Deitu said. The supplies will also be distributed amongst other evacuees in the area.
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Fiji News

Friday December 21, 2012

13

Bank Resumes Operations


BANK of South Pacific staff resumed work on Tuesday following minor damage and intermittent disruptions to services in the wake of Cyclone Evan. BSP country manager and chair of incident, risk and management committee, Kevin McCarthy said majority of the network had resumed operations on Tuesday morning despite the impact of strong gale force winds. "SMS banking customers who could get reception from respective mobile network providers were still able to access basic services such as topping up mobile phones, balance equities, transferring of funds and reviewing account history. "At the height of Cyclone Evan, we were able to facilitate our customers need for communication by allowing them to top up their mobile phones and contact loved ones from wherever they were. "All North and Central Eastern division branches are open and where necessary, generator sets are in place to ensure power supply, as long as fuel is available," Mr McCarthy said. All BSP branches in the west are now open for business.

Yaqona Warning
PEOPLE taking shelter at evacuation centers should refrain from consuming grog, says Assistant Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu. He said police had received reports that some evacuees were turning the accommodation facilities into a 'picnic spot'. ACP Tudravu said evacuation centers were meant for cyclone-affected people. "Evacuation centers are to cater for those in dire need of assistance," he said. "We have received reports of evacuees abusing the centers by consuming grog at the premises." "Government is doing its best in trying to feed these affected families yet some people instead are drinking grog there thinking the centers are their homes. It is unsafe for people to drink grog at evacuation centers especially when there are many children in these centers." ACP Tudravu said police officers would be deployed to keep an eye out on the properties. Meanwhile, he issued a stern warning to members of the public not to steal from those who have been disadvantaged by the cyclone. This, after 19 people were arrested in Lautoka for allegedly looting at the height of Cyclone Evan.

The Australian government has appointed Margaret Twomey as the new Australian High Commissioner to Fiji. She is expected to take up her appointment in February. This was announced by Australia's Foreign Minister Bob Carr. Ms Twomey is a senior career officer with the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and is the Australian ambassador to the Russian Federation. She has served as an ambassador to East Timor and was the Deputy Head of Mission at the Australian High Commission in Suva. Ms Twomey holds a Bachelor of Arts degree with honours (Russian and French) from the University of Melbourne. Senator Carr said the decision to restore

Australian High Commissioner Restored

$50 Fine For Bus Checker


A 27-YEAR-OLD bus checker has been told to pay a $50 fine or spend five days in jail. Nitesh Prakash appeared before Magistrate Yohan Liyanage charged with one count of indecently insulting a person. In sentencing Prakash, Magistrate Liyanage told him the court would give him a chance to live a clean and crimefree life. He was told to pay a $500 bail bond. In mitigation, Prakash told the court he was married with a son and had been working as a checker for the past four years, earning $80 a week. He apologised to the court. "I have considered the summary of facts and also noted that you are a first offender and pleaded guilty at the first available opportunity. "If you pay your fine before the review date then you are free not to attend that court case," Magistrate Liyanage told Prakash. The case has been adjourned to January 10 for review.

an Australian High Commissioner to Fiji was an agreed outcome of trilateral talks with Fiji and New Zealand in Sydney in July this year. "I welcome recent moves towards democracy in Fiji, including work towards an electronic electoral roll ahead of the elections scheduled for 2014," Senator Carr said. "There is a long way to go, but recent steps forward deserve the recognition agreed upon in our talks in July. Australia will continue to encourage Fiji's return to democracy and the civilianisation of government positions." Senator Carr and his Fiji counterpart Ratu Inoke Kubuabola agreed to exchange High Commissioners at their trilateral meeting with New Zealand Foreign Minister Murray McCully in Sydney on July 30.

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Condolences on the passing of Rocking Rakesh

The President, the Board of Directors, the Board of Governors and the members of The Canadian Society of Fiji Muslims wishes to express our heartful sorrow and sympathy on the passing away of Rocking Rakesh. Mr. Rakesh was a dynamic radio personality who was always ready to lend a hand to help others. He used his talents and his radio station for the betterment of the less fortunate on our society. The Canadian Society of Fiji Muslims had on many occasions held charitable functions that benefited the poor directly and to this end Mr. Rakesh was always willing to help us to help the poor. We take this opportunity to salute Rocking Rakesh for his kind support and endeavors that have benefited many people. We also take this opportunity to express our heartful condolences to the family of the deceased and pray to Allah Subhanu watallah to give every one Sabr. Bob Ibrahim. President .

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Fiji News

Friday December 21, 2012

New Training Skills For Staff

Fiji National University automobile engineering staff members surround their tutor, Romain Guillet, after the graduation at the school campus in Samabula Students of the Fiji National University and Development Zone, Christian (FNU) School of Automobile Engineering Dumant said the objective of this will now have a better grasp of practical training was to upskill the staff who skills essential in the automobile industry taught automotive engineering at the after school staff members received university so that students could learn training from one of the biggest car from highly skilled educators. companies in France. The staff was "This will help students gain better trained by Groupement National pours la knowledge and skills and have better Formation Automobile (GNFA). opportunities for success in the GNFA company director, Formation workplace," he said.

Nursing Awards

The New Zealand Government is pledging another $2 million to help Samoa and Fiji recover from Tropical Cyclone Evan. The Government has already provided $600,000 to Samoa and $400,000 to Fiji after the storm swept through earlier this week. "While both countries continue to take stock of the cyclone damage it is clear that the cost is going to be substantial," Foreign Affairs Minister McCully said. "For this reason we have allocated a further $2m to each country to ensure there are no resource constraints over the coming days. In each case the funding will be administered by the Ministry in consultation with relevant agencies." McCully also announced that the P3 Orion that assisted Samoa with aerial assessment work in the early part of the week has been moved to Fiji to undertake similar work. The US Ambassador has also pledged more support for Samoa, giving the Red Cross a further $119,000. This is to provide emergency support for families affected by the cyclone. Tourists in Fiji have been lining up to leave the island nation as locals begin the massive clean-up in the wake of the cyclone. More than 8,000 people, including foreign tourists, were evacuated to emergency shelters as Fiji was battered by the severe tropical cyclone, with winds topping 230km/h and floods damaging homes and resorts on Monday. There have been no reports of casualties or deaths since Cyclone Evan roared through Fiji, uprooting palm trees, tearing roofs off buildings and blowing down power lines. Water and power services remained disrupted across the country Tuesday, while public transport services resumed. Ten hours into the cyclone's onslaught,

NZ Government Pledges $2M To Cyclone Clean-Up

the Category 4 winds whipped up a storm surge. Low-lying resort rooms flooded and Australian tourists were taken to a conference room. They were shocked at the destruction in the morning. Tourist Michael Tooler told Australia's media that he had never been in something like that. "The winds were just massive. Coconut trees not going down just swaying, and branches snapping, hitting our walls. It was crazy," he said. Trees were down and roofs damaged at better-built resorts, while in the towns and villages, the damage is worse. Resident Delas Whippy's home is now a pile of timber and ruined possessions. He said his family was inside when the cyclone struck and they ran outside. "About two minutes after that the whole roof started to go," he said. Travellers have been lining up at Nadi Airport, desperate to secure a seat home. "Fingers crossed. We'll see how we go when we get to the counter," said one man in the queue. It will take weeks for the resorts in Fiji to return to normal. But for many Fijians, the best way to help their nation recover is for the tourists to keep coming. Already, some of those who are stranded are doing what they can, helping to clear fallen branches at resorts. Air Pacific's website does not show any flights between Fiji and New Zealand disrupted Wednesday. But a number of other flights, mostly between Nadi and Sydney, are delayed. Evan had weakened and moved south of the main island of Viti Levu by Tuesday morning, the Fiji Meterological Service said. The storm was forecast to weaken further as it headed into cooler southern waters.

School of Nursing's support group department with their awards during the special awards celebration at the school in Tamavua. THE College of Medicine, Nursing five-year program which the university and Health Sciences (CMNHS) at the implemented as a pilot project at the Fiji National University (FNU) held its college this year. The program focused first nursing awards last Friday. on quality, cleanliness and taking care The awards ceremony was part of a of the environment.

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Fiji News

Friday December 21, 2012

15

Christmas Cheer
In the aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Evan, many families and children will not have the chance to celebrate Christmas in the fashion they are used to. Many will go without gifts and some may be spending it in homes without walls or roofs. The Fiji Times and its partners Williams and Gosling, Save the Children Fund and the Rotary Club of Lautoka want to see those devastated the most by Cyclone Evan do not miss out on the spirit of Christmas. The companies will be organising a gift drive for children in the west with people requested to drop off whatever gifts they can at the Save The Children Fund office at 25 Pender St, Suva, and the Fiji Times Offices at 177 Victoria Parade Suva and Tukani St in Lautoka. Fiji Times publisher Hank Arts said the feedback from reporters on the ground was that many families would not be celebrating a merry Christmas. "What we're getting from our reporters on the ground is that there is a lot of devastation and children have nothing to look forward to," Mr Arts said. "So with the assistance of Save the Children Fund, Rotary Club and Williams and Gosling, we are running an appeal for people to drop off gifts at the designated drop off points, between now and midday Saturday. "With the kind assistance of Williams and Gosling, they will be taking all the gifts down to the Rotary Club in Lautoka and will assist them with distribution in time for children to get their gifts by Christmas." Williams and Gosling managing director Dave Aidney said the company was always happy to help out those who had everything taken from them in natural disasters. "We just hope that this brings in the kind-hearted and generous donations of people to give in the true spirit of Christmas," he said.

Patients Have A Reason To Smile


PATIENTS at St Giles Psychiatric Hospital had a reason to smile when they were hosted to a morning tea by the Psychiatric Survivors Association (PSA). PSA, a non-government organisation established in 2004 and comprises former patients of the hospital. "We see new things every day; these patients at St Giles go through the same routine every single day. We wanted to bring at least something different, put smiles on their faces and let them know that the community still remembers them," PSA administrative officer Jese Mamanavesi said. "This morning tea wouldn't have been possible without companies that have stepped in to help and donate something. We are grateful for their assistance and look forward to many more events like this in the future." Mr Mamanavesi said visits from mental illness survivors and the public was refreshing for patients and encouraged groups and the public not to forget those admitted at St Giles. PSA's role is to assist outpatients from St Giles get their life back to normal in terms of accessing funding and creating links with other mental health stakeholders in the country. It has 150 members, most of who have been diagnosed and treated by St Giles Psychiatric Hospital in Suva.

Hotelier Invites Media


A PROMINENT local hotelier is taking proactive steps to ensure international travellers are aware that Fiji is still a safe destination despite the destruction left by Tropical Cyclone Evan. Tony Whitton, managing director for Rosie Holidays, Likuliku Lagoon Resort and Malolo Island Resort, said he planned to invite a group of international journalists to the Yasawa and Mamanuca group in January to experience Fiji first-hand and relay the message to their people that Fiji was still a great holiday destination. He said it was important that those making holiday plans looked at Fiji as a potential destination. "Travellers and potential visitors need to be made aware that the north is 100 per cent operational and they offer some fantastic experiences up there. The Coral Coast is also fully operational and has a wide variety of activities and experiences available as well."

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Fiji News

Friday December 21, 2012

17

Fiji Cleans Up After Evan

18

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Chai Time

Friday December 21, 2012

Aries

A few disappointments this week as some of the people you invited to spend your vacation time with you tells you they are unable to go. Even though you are disappointed why not ask some long lost relatives? They may be more than happy to go along with you on your journey home. Keep an ear open to the children to find out what they need to make their universe ideal. Listen to your dreams this week as they could be prophetic; may even tell you when and where the next earthquake will be!

to be as entertainment only as even meditation does not clear them up.

Cancer

also be pointing you in this direction so meditate on them for help

Taurus

You who have spent a lifetime helping and caring for others find that you are the one in need of help this week but you are not the type that will ask for it. A very intuitive friend sees your problem and puts forth the effort on your behalf that is necessary to solve it. Be very sure that you express your appreciation in terms that are readily understandable and do it with a smile. Your dreams may be a little confusing this week so there is not much need in paying them any mind.

At this late date, the issue of move, not move should be put on the shelf until after the final employment issue is decided; just to be sure the move will not do you in financially. Make preparations for either visitors that will be traveling to see you or, your own travel to see them. Make your decisions now concerning your vacation as time is running out. Your dreams could be prophetic this week and may even be global in nature. Meditate on them and you may just come up with a surprise.

Libra

Leo

Gemini

A quarrelsome, disagreeable person may not be simply an idiot, he or she may have some deep seated personal problems that they cannot talk out and this expresses itself as frustrated anger at the world and not just you in particular. Best to avoid this person for most of the week or until the head is back on straight. Family plans are all important to you this week and you make it a week of family discussions in an effort to please as many of them as you can. Your dreams are not too clear on these points and would appear

Getting acclimated in a new area or on a new job will take some time so don't expect miracles right off the bat. An employee may be having some difficulties at this time and even though you wish to help, you are only able to point this person to the right agencies that address the type of problem he or she may be experiencing. Your dreams may be very clear and concise as they will point to certain areas or aspects of your life that may be causing you some trouble along with ways to overcome.

The cat is out of the bag as a trusted confident tells your loved one of the big night you spent out on the town with your friends when he/she was away. Don't worry, you are not likely to be the cheating kind and your spouse knows this so when it is laughed off, the friend will be in mild shock. There is nothing you like better than a challenge, unless of course, it is overcoming a problem; you will find a few in the workplace this week where you manage to use that logic you are so famous for to win out. Dreams are cloudy and not too informative, seemingly unrelated to things going on in your life right now.

spice in your romantic life by adding some romantic touches to the evenings at home. Your dreams can help you on this score as they can give you clues about things to expect and how to react

Capricorn

This is not a good week for investments of any kind that involve risk taking in all of its forms. Keep informed about the progress of a child to whom you may have more than the usual interest in, especially a handicapped one. Your job is secure so any thought going out and finding another should be dropped, at least until after summer has passed. Your dreams are not really clear this week so don't expect help from that area.

Aquarius

Scorpio

Virgo

Getting a child taken care of, gift wise, has taken you out of the uncertainty of remembering (and forgetting!) at the last minute. This would be a good week to put your spare time to some good use and do some volunteer work with groups who are busily putting together food for the beleaguered areas overseas. This is a very satisfying activity and you find that it serves to fill the empty place in your life that you have been feeling. Dreams may

A scorpion may be able to eventually apologize but not before everyone around him or her has been battle scarred or otherwise wounded. Be careful how you verbalize your feelings this week as others will be sensitive but not to your own particular personal problems, and why add loss of friendships to your burden. Things begin to turn around for you by the end of the week and you begin to see some solutions. Your dreams are clear and to the point, quite helpful if you will meditate and listen to them. Finishing up projects or chores one at a time in the evening may be the thing that keeps you out of hot water at home. Use your sensitivity and your intuition to help someone this week. Time to clean up your act before the chickens come home to roost and you find yourself in divorce court. Put some

The family draws closer together in your time of sorrow and despair, with all the supportive people around you, you are not likely to stay in this depressing state of affairs for very long. A ray of hope and sunshine enters your life in the next few days. Friends may appear to be distant and unfeeling when they are only at a loss to know what to say. Your dreams will help you through this time as they are highly sensitive and prophetic.

Pisces

Sagittarius

A very busy week for you as you catch up the loose ends and get ready to prepare for your vacation. Don't let yourself become aggravated with someone this week because in your state of tiredness and nerves you will not be able to control some harsh words that you will both regret. Midweek will find you slowing down a little and your nerves leveling out. Pay close attention to your dreams as they can be counted on to let you know when it is time to put on the brakes in a certain affair

Lamb Roast
1 kg (2.2 lbs) leg of lamb 1/4 cup of olive oil 2.5 tsp of sea salt 6 cloves of garlic, cut into slivers Several sprigs of fresh rosemary 8 potatoes 2 large sweet potatoes 2 white onions Mint Sauce Serves 4 Preheat the oven to 290F. Cut the potatoes and sweet potatoes into inch-thick slices. Cut the onions in half and then place vegetables into a baking tray. Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil

Ingredients:

Preparation:

and sprinkle on some salt. Place tray in the oven on the bottom rack and roast. Cover the lamb in olive oil and then sprinkle with sea salt. Use the point of a sharp knife to make small incisions all over the lamb. Place the garlic slivers and rosemary springs in the holes. Place the lamb onto the middle oven rack with the vegetable baking tray beneath it to catch drippings. Roast for 90 minutes. Test meat to see if it's done by slicing it in the thickest part. Remove from oven and transfer to a plate to rest. Cover lamb in foil and let it sit for 10 minutes. Serve with potatoes, onions and mint sauce.

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Friday December 21, 2012

19

Barack Obama Sets January Deadline On Gun Reform After Sandy Hook Shooting
SPURRED by a horrific elementary school shooting, US President Barack Obama tasked his administration with creating concrete proposals to reduce the gun violence that has plagued the country.

US President Barack Obama speaks about gun control as Vice President Joe Biden looks on "This time, the words need to lead to action," said Mr Obama, who set a January deadline for the recommendations. He tasked Vice President Joe Biden with leading the effort and vowed to push for implementation of the policy proposals without delay. The president, who exerted little political capital on gun control despite a series of mass shootings in his first term, bristled at suggestions that he had been silent on the issue during his first four years in office. But he acknowledged that Friday's deadly shooting had been "a wake-up call for all of us". Twenty children and six adults were killed when a man carrying a militarystyle rifle stormed Sandy Hook Elementary in Newtown, Connecticut, last Friday morning. The president also called on Congress to reinstate an assault weapons ban that expired in 2004 and to pass legislation that would close the gun show "loophole", which allows people to purchase firearms from private dealers without a background check. Mr Obama also said he wanted Congress to pursue the possibility of limiting high-capacity ammunition clips. "The fact that this problem is complex can no longer be an excuse for doing nothing," Mr Obama said. "The fact that we can't prevent every act of violence doesn't mean we can't steadily reduce the violence." The president's announcement underscores the urgency the White House sees in formulating a response to the Newtown shooting. The massacre has prompted several congressional gun rights supporters to consider new legislation to control firearms, and there is some concern that their willingness to engage could fade as the shock and sorrow over the Newtown shooting eases.

Police in the Indian capital Delhi have used water cannon to disperse protesters angry at last Sunday night's gang rape of a 23-year-old student. The protesters were hosed as they tried to bring down metal barricades outside Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit's home. Meanwhile, the government has announced a series of measures to make the capital safer for women. There has been outrage in India after the student and her male friend were attacked on a bus. The woman remains in a critical condition, doctors say. Four people, including the bus driver, have been arrested. Police say they are looking for two more people. Three of the arrested appeared in court on Wednesday and were remanded in custody. The driver was produced in court on Tuesday and also remanded in custody. Some reports said a fifth man detained in the eastern state of Bihar was being brought to Delhi. On Tuesday night, the chief of the ruling Congress party, Sonia Gandhi, visited the hospital where the student is being treated. Mrs Gandhi later said that the "strictest possible measures" should be taken to prevent such incidents. Dozens of protesters, mostly college students, gathered outside the chief minister's home on Wednesday morning, demanding that the government ensure safety of women in the capital city. Many of the protesters were carrying banners and chanting: "We want equal rights for women." The government has come under tremendous pressure from opposition MPs, students and women's rights activists, with many accusing the authorities of not doing enough to stop crimes against women. On Wednesday, women MPs from the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party

Delhi Bus Gang Rape: Water Cannon Used On Protesters

(BJP) held a demonstration outside parliament while hundreds of activists and students shouted slogans outside the Delhi police headquarters. New safety measures Also on Wednesday, Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde was forced by angry MPs in the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of parliament, to make a statement for the second time in as many days. Mr Shinde said there would be more police night patrols, and all bus drivers and their assistants would be subject to checks. "Private buses, when not in use, must be parked with their owners and the photo identification of the driver and staff of every bus would have to be displayed, and the police would enforce this," he said. The bus which was used for Sunday night's crime had dark tinted glass. Mr Shinde said "buses with dark windows and curtains would be impounded". Earlier in the day, Mr Shinde held a meeting with the top officials of the Delhi police. The police were also criticised by the Delhi High Court, which asked them to give a report on the incident in two days. "How did the bus cross five police checkpoints without anybody stopping it?" the judges asked. "Those responsible have to be punished," they warned. The incident has caused outrage across the country and lawmakers from all parties have expressed their horror. Angry MPs have demanded the death penalty for the rapists, and protests and candle-lit vigils have been held in the capital. The woman and her friend boarded the bus in Munirka area and were on their way to Dwarka in south-west Delhi. They were returning after watching a film in a shopping centre in south Delhi, police said.

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UP to 30 Customs officers have been accused of receiving bribes to turn a blind eye to the import of drugs and illegal precursor chemicals through Sydney International Airport.

Australian Customs In Drug Smuggling Claims

The allegations are believed to follow several months of surveillance by the Australian Federal Police after officers were tipped off about the racket. The Federal Police refused to comment on the investigation. A Sydney Airport insider told Channel 10 that about 30 officers from the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service were under investigation. Sources said Lebanese crime gangs are believed to have infiltrated Customs at the airport. The officers are alleged to have ignored the illegal importation of cocaine and pseudoephedrine, used to make methamphetamine. It was also alleged the officers may have been entire shifts of staff who were receiving kickbacks for their roles in the importation ring. A Customs and Border Protection officer from Sydney International Airport faced Central Local Court charged with importing a commercial quantity of pseudoephedrine and receiving a bribe aimed at encouraging him to "circumvent Customs protocol". He has also been charged with abusing

his office to gain a financial advantage, after allegedly receiving a bribe between August 10 and August 18. Paul John Katralis, 25, of Menai, was arrested by the Australian Federal Police on August 20, two days after the man accused of paying him the bribe was arrested at Sydney Airport as he got off an international flight. In October, Joseph Harb, 28, of Ashfield, pleaded guilty to bribing a Commonwealth official. He also entered a guilty plea to charges of supplying the banned drug MDMA and importing the precursor drug pseudoephedrine. A third co-accused, Isabel Martin, 20, of Swansea, was also charged over the alleged drug importation. An Australian Federal Police spokeswoman confirmed an investigation was under way, but said the agency could not provide any information. Customs and Border Protection also refused to discuss details of the allegations, with a spokeswoman saying: "Obviously we're aware of the allegations, but at this stage we're not commenting on it." Home Affairs Minister Jason Clare was unavailable for comment. Opposition customs spokesman Michael Keenan said the allegations are the most significant to rock a federal agency in decades. "Given the seriousness of these charges the government must outline to the Australian people exactly what has happened and why it has been allowed to happen,'' he said in a statement. "The widespread and systemic nature of it calls into question the culture of the agency that has allowed this to fester.'' Mr Keenan said Labor had cut 750 customs officers and stripped funding from the agency since being elected, leaving it open to exploitation from criminal syndicates.

Victorian car crash victim has been charged by police after officers allegedly found a snake, drugs and nearly A$200,000 in cash in the wreckage while trying to free him in the state's central west. Officers were forced to catch the 1.4-metre python, which escaped from its box inside the Toyota Landcruiser in the crash and was slithering around inside the vehicle in Parkes on Tuesday. Officers became suspicious when the injured man initially refused medical treatment following the crash on Peak Road about 8.30am. Police said the Landcruiser, carrying two men, was towing a fishing boat and was involved in a crash with a ute, trapping the man inside the fourwheel-drive. "While the rescue was under way, officers were forced to capture a 1.5 metre long bush python which was loose inside the Landcruiser," the police spokesman said. "The reptile had been inside a box in

Crash Victim Had Drugs, Cash And Snake

the four-wheel-drive but the force of the impact knocked it free." Police said they searched the boat and found evidence the seats had been tampered with and some of the polystyrene buoyancy had been removed. "Police believe the boat had been used to store and smuggle illegal drugs," the spokesman said. Officers also allegedly found nearly A$195,000 in a freezer bag and a small amount of methamphetamine, known as "ice". The money has been seized as the possible proceeds of crime. The injured man, who remains in hospital, has been charged with dealing with the proceeds of crime and buying and selling protected fauna. He will be issued with a court attendance notice to appear at Parkes Local Court at a later date. His companion has been charged with dealing in the proceeds of crime, and possessing/supplying a prohibited drug.

A worker at a waste disposal site in Japan found $112,000 cash in a stream of pulverised rubbish, police said. "There were about a thousand 10,000 yen ($112) bills that came out of a pulveriser unscathed," said a spokesman at the Asaminami police department in Hiroshima prefecture. He said there were also 2,300 fragments of bills destroyed by the machine at a municipal facility that processes bulk waste such as cupboards and mattresses that cannot be collected by

Rubbish Worker Finds $112,000 Cash In Trash

regular garbage collection. Police suspect the owner of the cash might have forgotten the money was there when they threw away some furniture. "We believe it is unlikely there is anything criminal in this, although we must say we don't know much about this money at all," the spokesman said. The cash was found on Monday. If no-one comes forward within three months, the waste disposal facility will have the right to claim the money, the spokesman said.

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A grief-stricken Newtown began laying to rest the littlest victims of the US school massacre, starting with two six-year-old boys - one of them a big football fan, the other described as a whip-smart youngster whose twin sister survived the rampage. Family, friends and townspeople streamed to two funeral homes to say goodbye to Jack Pinto, who loved the New York Giants and idolised their star wide receiver, and Noah Pozner, who liked to figure out how things worked mechanically. In front of the funeral home where relatives mourned Noah, well-wishers placed two teddy bears, a bouquet of white flowers and a single red rose at the base of an old maple tree. "He was just a really lively, smart kid," said Noah's uncle Alexis Haller, of Woodinville, Wash. "He would have become a great man, I think. He would have grown up to be a great dad." Noah's twin sister, Arielle, who was assigned to a different classroom, survived the killing frenzy by 20-yearold Adam Lanza that left 20 children and six adults dead last week at Sandy Hook Elementary in an attack so horrifying that authorities could not say whether the school would ever reopen. At Jack's service, hymns rang out from inside the funeral home. A mourner, Gwendolyn Glover, said that Jack was in an open casket and that the service was a message of comfort and protection, particularly for other children. "The message was: You're secure now. The worst is over," she said. The funeral program bore a quotation from the Book of Revelation: "God shall wipe away all tears. There shall be no more death. Neither sorrow nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain." A fir tree opposite the funeral home was strung with paper angels carrying the names of everyone who died, including the teachers. At both funeral homes, people wrestled with the same questions as the rest of the country - what steps could and should be taken to prevent anything like the massacre from happening again. "If people want to go hunting, a singleshot rifle does the job, and that does the job to protect your home, too. If you need more than that, I don't know what to say," Ray DiStephan said outside Noah's funeral. He added: "I don't want to see my kids go to schools that become maximumsecurity fortresses. That's not the world I want to live in, and that's not the world I want to raise them in." With more funerals planned this week, the road ahead for Newtown, which had already started purging itself of Christmas decorations in a joyful season turned mournful, was clouded "I feel like we have to get back to normal, but I don't know if there is normal anymore," said Kim Camputo, mother of two children, 5 and 10, who attend a different school. "I'll definitely

be dropping them off and picking them up myself for a while." With Sandy Hook Elementary still designated a crime scene, State police Lieutenant Paul Vance said that it could be months before police turn the school back over to the district. The people of Newtown, consumed by loss, were not ready to address its future. "We're just now getting ready to talk to our son about who was killed," said Robert Licata, the father of a student who escaped harm during the shooting. "He's not even there yet." Classes were cancelled Monday and Newtown's other schools were to reopen Tuesday. The district made plans to send surviving Sandy Hook students to a former middle school in the neighbouring town of Monroe. Sandy Hook desks are being taken to the Chalk Hill school in Monroe, empty since town schools consolidated last year, and tradesmen are donating their services to get the school ready within a matter of days. "These are innocent children that need to be put on the right path again," Monroe police Lieutenant Brian McCauley said. US President Barack Obama pledged to seek change in memory of the 20 children and six adults slain last Friday by a gunman packing a high-powered rifle. The president slowly recited the first names of the children. "What choice do we have?" he said. "Are we really prepared to say that we're powerless in the face of such carnage, that the politics are too hard?" Authorities said that Lanza was carrying an arsenal of hundreds of rounds of especially deadly ammunition, enough to kill just about every student in the school if given enough time. Lanza decided to kill himself when he heard police closing in about 10 minutes into the attack, Connecticut Governor Dannel P Malloy said. Across the country, vigilance was high. In an effort to ensure student safety and calm parents' nerves, school systems asked police departments to increase patrols and sent messages to parents outlining safety plans they said are regularly reviewed and rehearsed. Teachers girded themselves to be strong for their students and for questions and fears they would face in the classroom. "It's going to be a tough day," said Richard Cantlupe, an American history teacher at Westglades Middle School in Parkland, Florida. "This was like our 9/11 for schoolteachers." Communities were on edge. In nearby Ridgefield, Connecticut, schools were locked down after a suspicious person was seen near a train station. Authorities say the gunman shot his mother, Nancy Lanza, at their home and then took her car and several of her guns to the school, where he broke in and shot his victims to death, then himself. A Connecticut official said the mother - a gun enthusiast who practiced at shooting ranges - was found dead in her pyjamas in bed, shot four times in

Connecticut School Massacre

the head with a .22-calibre rifle. Lanza was wearing all black, with an olive utility vest, during the attack. Investigators have offered no motive, and police have found no letters or diaries that could shed light on it. A law enforcement official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said investigators were reviewing the contents of Lanza's computer, as well as phone and credit card records. The official was not authorised to discuss details of the case. Divorce paperwork released showed that Nancy Lanza had the authority to make all decisions regarding Adam's upbringing. The divorce was finalised in September 2009, when Adam Lanza was 17. US federal agents have concluded that Lanza visited an area shooting range, but they do not know whether he practiced shooting there. Lanza took classes at Western Connecticut State University when he was 16, and earned a B average, said Paul Steinmetz, spokesman for the school in Danbury. He said that Lanza took his last class in the summer of 2009. Lanza is believed to have used a Bushmaster AR-15 rifle in the school attack, a civilian version of the military's M-16 and a model commonly seen at marksmanship competitions. It's similar to the weapon used in a recent shopping mall shooting in Oregon. Versions of the AR-15 were outlawed in the US under the 1994 assault weapons ban. That law expired in 2004, and Congress, in a nod to the political clout of the gun-rights lobby, did not renew it. In some of the first regulatory proposals to rise out of the Newtown shooting, Democratic lawmakers and independent Senator Joe Lieberman said Sunday that military-style assault weapons should be banned and that

a national commission should be established to examine mass shootings. "Assault weapons were developed for the US military, not commercial gun manufacturers," said Lieberman, of Connecticut, who is retiring next month. "This is a moment to start a very serious national conversation about violence in our society, particularly about these acts of mass violence." Gun rights activists remained largely quiet, all but one declining to appear on the Sunday talk shows. In an interview on Sunday, Republican Louie Gohmert, a Texas Republican, defended the sale of assault weapons and said that the principal at Sandy Hook, who authorities say died trying to overpower the shooter, should herself have been armed. The Victims Charlotte Bacon, 6 Daniel Barden, 7 Olivia Engel, 6 Josephine Gay, 7 Ana M. Marquez-Greene, 6 Dylan Hockley, 6 Madeline F. Hsu, 6 Catherine V Hubbard, 6 Chase Kowalski, 7 Jesse Lewis, 6 James Mattioli, 6 Grace McDonnell, 7 Emilie Parker, 6 Jack Pinto, 6 Noah Pozner, 6 Caroline Previdi, 6 Jessica Rekos, 6 Avielle Richman, 6 Benjamin Wheeler, 6 Allison N. Wyatt, 6 Anne Marie Murphy, 52 Rachel Davino, 29 Lauren Rousseau, 30 Mary Sherlach, 56 Victoria Soto, 27 Dawn Hocksprung, 47 Nancy Lanza, 52

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Friday December 21, 2012

Time Magazine Names Obama Person Of The Year

U.S. Soldier To Be Court-Martialed, Could Face Death Penalty


A U.S. soldier accused of killing 16 Afghan villagers in a shooting rampage could face the death penalty if he is found guilty in a court-martial. The military has referred the case of Staff Sgt. Robert Bales to a courtmartial authorized to consider capital punishment, according to a military statement released Wednesday. Another six Afghans were wounded in the spree near a small U.S. base in Afghanistan's Kandahar province last March, the military said. "The charges are merely accusations, and the accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty," the military emphasized in its statement. Bales' defense attorney John Henry Browne said Wednesday he didn't receive any notice from the Army or the prosecutors about the decision to pursue the death penalty; he said he found out about it through the media. "That's how much we seem to matter to the prosecutors and the general," quipped Browne. "I am concerned this is a death penalty case, but I am not surprised. We've prepared him for this. He knows he's being singled out," Browne said. "We understand that decision, but we think it's totally irresponsible of the government and the Army," Bales' lawyer said. "We think the Army is attempting to escape responsibility for the decision to send Sgt. Bales to Afghanistan for his fourth deployment, knowing that he had (post-traumatic stress disorder) and a concussive head injury," Browne said. "I think that the person who made the decision to send Sgt. Bales to the most dangerous area in Afghanistan in a small outpost is responsible for Sgt. Bales being in Afghanistan, and he should have never been there." Bales' wife, Karilyn, has called the

US President Barack Obama was named TIME's Person of the Year for 2012, citing his historic re-election last month as symbolic of the nation's changing demographics amid the backdrop of high unemployment and other challenges. It is the second time Mr Obama has been named TIME's Person of the Year after previously winning the title in 2008 when he was president-elect. TIME editor Rick Stengel announced the choice on NBC's Today program on Wednesday. "He's basically the beneficiary and the author of a kind new America - a new demographic, a new cultural America that he is now the symbol of," he said.

"He won re-election despite a higher unemployment rate than anybody's had to face in basically in 70 years. "He's the first Democrat to actually win two consecutive terms with over 50 per cent of the vote. That's something we haven't seen since Franklin Delano Roosevelt," Stengel said, citing the president who served during the Great Depression and World War II. Mr Obama edged out Malala Yousufzai, a Pakistani girl shot in the head by the Taliban for advocating girls' education, for the honour. Other finalists included Apple chief executive Tim Cook, Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi, Bill and Hillary Clinton, and scientist Fabiola Gianotti.

Three Minor Girls Sexually Exploited In Kerala


Three incidents of minor girls being sexually exploited came to light in Kerala Tuesday amid the country and its parliament being outraged over the gang-rape of a 23-year-old woman in Delhi. In one case, the father of a minor was arrested; in another, it was the uncle who was the culprit and in the third case, it was a neighbour, who is absconding. In Thrissur, a 10-year-old girl became the victim of her father's lust. "The accused has been arrested and he has confessed to the crime," said a police official. In Kollam, a 49-year-old man has been arrested after he molested his sister-inlaw's daughter. The 13-year-old victim is currently undergoing treatment at a state-run hospital. The third case was reported in Malappuram district, where a Class 10 girl student was harassed by her neighbour.

accusations "completely out of character of the man I know and admire." In a statement released Wednesday, she wrote, "I no longer know if a fair trial for Bob is possible, but it very much is my hope and I will have faith." She and their children visit Bales every weekend, and "for a few hours I can see and feel the love that flows" between them, she added. Afghan authorities have pushed for swift action. "He committed a mass killing crime, and we would like the court in the United States to implement justice and punish him according to the crime," Ahmad Zia Syamak, a spokesman for Afghan President Hamid Karzai, told CNN last month. But Browne said prosecutors may regret hastily moving the case forward. "The reality is almost every death case in the Army -- almost every -- has been overturned on appeal, and there hasn't been an execution in the Army since the early '60s," Browne said, referencing the 1961 hanging of Pvt. John Bennett.

Gay Marriage A First For Australian MP


A Government Minister from South Australia has become the first openly gay sitting member of an Australian Parliament to be married. Communities and Social Inclusion Minister Ian Hunter has married his partner of more than two decades, Leith Semmens, in a ceremony at Jun, near in the Spanish city of Granada. A small group of relatives and friends attended the ceremony. Spain legislated in 2005 to allow gay marriage. Mr Hunter had an earlier plan for marriage in the United States but was thwarted by problems with paperwork. The Minister, 52, said he and his partner did not want to wait for marriage changes to be introduced in Australia. He said they married for love and commitment, not to push the gay marriage issue, but recognised their partnership might have an effect on the ongoing debate in Australia. "There's a very broad base of views in Australia about gay marriage. The Australian citizenship supports it overwhelmingly, about 60 per cent, and a very large number of MPs, but not enough yet," he said. "We were coming to Spain anyway so why not get married while we could? "Spain is leading the world by its changes to its laws and Australia is still having the debate and I could have stayed in Adelaide, Australia and waited for the changes but I didn't want to. I wanted to come to Spain and get married now."

Man Wears 70 Items Of Clothing To Avoid Baggage Fees


YOU check in at the airport only to discover your suitcase is overweight. Do you a) pay the usually exorbitant excess luggage fees or b) pull out 70 items of clothing, and wear them all? One passenger, who has not been identified, faced the dilemma at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport in China. So he decided to pull out more than 60 shirts and nine pairs of jeans and struggle to squeeze them all on. It must have been quite a sight for fellow travellers - he reportedly ended up looking like a sumo wrestler. The man, who was flying to Nairobi, Kenya, was stopped by the metal detector and underwent a full-body search. Batteries, USB devices and charges were found in the clothing.

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ICBC Cases
Barinder S. Sanghera B.Comm., LL.B. Amandeep S. Sanghera B.A., LL.B. Puneet P.K. Sandhar B.A. (Hons.), LL.B.

After my accident I had constant neck and back pains. I felt sad most of the time and became very anxious about

CM

MY

the future. ICBC said I was overreacting and offered $17,000. My case settled for $400,000 at mediation. MR. S. ___________________________________________________________________________________________ The damage to my car was only $700. ICBC said I could not have been injured: but I was. My lawyer finalized my claim for $28,000 plus expenses. MISS M. ___________________________________________________________________________________________

CY

CMY

ICBC offered me $32,000 to finish my case. I was off work for 6 monthsand saw a specialist because of my jaw injury. I couldnt mop the floor or clean our bathroom without help from my children. I received $200,000 through my lawyers efforts. Mrs. S ___________________________________________________________________________________________ The damage to my vehicle was about $1,700. ICBC said this was a Low Velocity Impact (LVI) and refused to pay me for my injuries and physio costs. My lawyer obtained more than $45,000 for me. Mrs. B ___________________________________________________________________________________________ A car hit me as I walked across the street. ICBC blamed me because of the color of my clothing. My lawyer worked hard and obtained necessary evidence. My case settled for over $300,000. MRS.C. *Past cases are not necessarily indicative of future results and amounts recovered may vary according to the facts in each case.

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When someone we love passes away, We ache, but we go on; Our dear departed would want us to heal, After they are gone. Grief is a normal way to mend The anguish and pain in our hearts; We need time to remember and time to mourn, Before the recovery starts. Let's draw together to recuperate, As we go through this period of sorrow; Let's help each other, with tender care To find a brighter tomorrow.

The sorrow of the faithful Is not that of permanent loss, But the tender sense of sadness That comes in saying good-bye for now To someone we love. May today's sorrow give way To the peace and Comfort of God's love. You left us so suddenly, your thoughts unknown

REST IN PEACE 'ROCKING' RAKESH CHAND


You left us memories, we are proud to own

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came to settle in Canada. 6) Which countries fought in the War of 1812? A. France, Great Britain and United States of America. B. Canada and United States of America. C. France and United Kingdom. D. United Kingdom and United States of America. 7) How can you contact your Member of Parliament? A. Write a letter to the Prime Minister. B. Call the office of the party in power. C. Write a letter to the Premier of your province. D. Write a letter to the House of Commons. 8) What are three minerals still being mined in the territories today? A. Gold, lead and zinc. B. Tin, lead and aluminum. C. Nickel, gold and lead. D. Silver, lead and zinc. 9) What is a Cabinet Minister? A. Being able to have freedom of speech. B. Being able to work and move. C. Being able to have a job in any provinces. D. Being able to live and work anywhere in Canada. 4) Who do Canadians vote for in a federal election? A. All candidates in their electoral district. B. A candidate whom they want to represent them in Parliament. C. The best speaker running the election campaign. D. Someone to become the Premier of the province. 5) What does Confederation mean? A. The merger of colonies to form a province. B. The combination of neighborhood to build a larger community. C. The joining of provinces to become a new country. D. The United States Confederate army

Friday December 21, 2012

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1) What is written on an election ballot? A. The candidates running for Prime Minister listed. B. The results of the election. C. The names of Canadians eligible to vote. D. The names of the candidates in your electoral district. 2) Where are the Parliament Buildings located? A. Toronto. B. Montreal. C. Quebec City. D. Ottawa. 3) What does "mobility rights" mean? Continued From Last Week Present all the information and ask the MP/Staff what specific things they could do to help. Take notes. Be firm. Convey the idea that you want something done. Ask them to contact you by a certain date so that you will be able to hear about progress on the case. REPORT FRAUD TO THE CANADA BORDER SERVICES AGENCY If you choose not to contact your MP, you can report fraud by telephone completely anonymously to the CBSA. Here are some directions to follow : (1) Please phone 1-888-502-9060. This is the phone number for the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA)Border Watch. The office is located in Ottawa. It is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It is the main federal agency that enforces Canadas Immigration Act. (The CBSA does provide a rough address : Canada Border Services Agency, Ottawa, K1A OL8. You can send material to that address.) (2) You will hear a voice message system. Press 1 for service in English. You will hear another voice message which will give you a number of choices. If you press 1, you will get to speak to an agent. Please tell the agent what you want to report. If you prefer to leave a voice message, press 2. If you want to FAX information to CBSA, use the following number : 1-613-948-4848.

A. MP selected by the Queen to make laws. B. Candidate picked by the Prime Minister. C. MP selected by the Prime Minister to run federal departments. D. MP picked by the Premier of each province. 10) Fatima is a new immigrant to Canada. Why can she choose to take a job like any man? A. Because she came from United Kingdom. B. Because she has a university degree. C. Because of the equality between French and English. D. Because of the equality of women and men in Canada. ANSWERS 1.D 6.D 2.D 7.D 3.D 8.A 4.B 9.C 5.C 10.D

(3) Give the agent as much specific information as possible on the individual or group. Remember that you do not have to say who you are. All information you give will be held confidential. According to the CBSA, the following are minimum requirements in the information you should give them: (a) the complete name(s) of the person or people committing the fraud; (b) the age or date of birth of the person; c) the kind of fraud the person has committed. Explain the latter very clearly and in as much detail as is necessary. Please try to provide other important information such as the country of birth, home address, work location, etc. (4) If persons are working illegally in Canada, it is almost certain that they are not reporting their income. This means they can be reported to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) . It will greatly help the cause if you do this. If CBSA is slow in getting to the task, the Canada Revenue Agency may provide the pressure that is needed to produce results. Check for the CRA reporting number in your area. Here are 5 phone numbers, from Pacific to Atlantic : (1) B.C. Region : 1-866-846-3535 (2) Prairie Region : 1-866-453-0450 (3) Ontario Region : 1-866-809-6841 (4) Quebec Region : 1-866-896-6317

Report Fraud

(5) Atlantic Region : 1-888-674-1699 When you speak to the Canada Revenue Agency , please provide as many details as possible regarding the person and the employer. (5) When you speak to the CBSA, tell the agent the kind of fraud you believe has been committed. There is a very long list of types of fraud: document/ passport fraud; passing documents to others for their use; crime; working illegally in Canada; visa overstaying; illegal collecting of employment insurance or social assistance; foreign students working; foreign students not attending school; foreigners engaged in any threat to national security; foreign spouses deserting (soon after they get here) their Canadian spouses (fraud marriage) ; smuggling and others. These are a few examples. (6) The CBSA has told us that they have priorities. People involved in terrorism and organized crime are at the top of their list. People Smugglers and those smuggled are next. People with deportation orders, Illegal Workers, those involved in Marriages of Convenience, Illegal Students, etc. complete their list. (7) It is extremely important that you ask for a Log or Case Number. If you get more information and need to call again, you will need to give this

number to the person you speak to. Getting a Log or case number will avoid the problem of repeating your information. (8) Here is the Canada Border Services Agency web site address: www.cbsaasfc.gc.ca (9) The Canada Border Services Agency will begin an investigation ASAP. The length of an investigation varies. They will not tell you the results of the investigation. (However, if you find out that the reported person has left the country, you can probably conclude that the person has been deported. If you think something should have been done, but has not been done, phone CBSA again and complain. Be persistent. Also, let us know if you think CBSA is not being diligent. We will try to assist you.) =========================== REPORT REFUGEE FRAUD TO THE IMMIGRATION AND REFUGEE BOARD You may know of a case of someone who has cheated on an application for refugee status. If you want to report cheating, you should contact the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada. Here is their web site address and their e-mail contact address : http://www.irb-cisr.gc.ca/Eng/Pages/ index.aspx

Immigration Minister Jason Kenney doesn't want immigrants who are trained as doctors and engineers driving cabs or selling gum at corner stores. He says he wants newcomers to fulfil their potential and not waste their lives doing "survival" jobs because of road blocks provincial and federal associations erect to prevent skilled immigrants from working in their fields of expertise.

Immigration Changes Address Labour Shortage


"For too long too many newcomers who arrived in Canada have ended up finding themselves stuck in underemployment or unemployment," Kenney said Wednesday while announcing changes to better identify and match the skills of immigrant applicants with the needs of the job market. The minister said over 70% of economic immigrants end up working in fields other than those for which they were trained, and that the unemployment rate for newcomers is double the national average. "This is an unacceptable paradox at a time when we have a growing problem," Kenney said, referring to an acute shortage of skilled workers across the country. Some estimates suggest there will be a shortage of up to 163,000 construction workers, 130,000 oil workers and

10,000 skilled trades' people in the next decade. "The idea is simple. It's to select the people who could actually get to work at their skill level in the occupation for which they were trained," he said. The new selection system for the Skilled Worker Program will start in May and will grade applicants on language and educational credentials and screen out those who are unqualified.

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Canada News

Friday December 21, 2012

New Federal Skilled Worker Program To Accept Applications

A funeral home in central Quebec has apologized after placing the wrong body in an open coffin prior to a weekend funeral. The shocking mistake can't be undone because the Oscar St-Ours funeral home mistakenly cremated Marguerite Mercier-Pelletier's body prior to the service in this town two hours east of Montreal. The family discovered the stunning mistake when they arrived at the viewing on Friday only to find a person they didn't recognize lying in the

Quebec Funeral Home Places Wrong Body In Open Coffin

casket. They immediately notified the funeral home. St-Ours admits a paperwork error that resulted in the 81-year-old woman's body being incinerated. The woman's brother tells QMI Agency that he doesn't have any hard feelings, but other relatives aren't as sure. Some are considering their options, calling the mistake inexcusable. St-Ours claims it has never placed the wrong body in a casket in 91 years of operation.

The new selection system for the underemployement and unemployment, Federal Skilled Worker Program and this has been detrimental to these (FSWP) will take effect on May 4, newcomers and to the Canadian 2013 at which time the program will economy, said Minister Kenney. re-open for applications, Citizenship, Our transformational changes to the Immigration, and Multiculturalism FSWP will help ensure that skilled Minister Jason Kenney announced newcomers are able to contribute their Wednesday. skills fully to the economy as soon as The governments number one possible. This is good for newcomers, priority remains jobs, economic good for the economy, and good for all growth, and long-term prosperity, said Canadians. Minister Kenney. The new Federal There are two new steps to the new Skilled Worker Program criteria will selection system. First, applicants will ensure Canada is selecting the skilled have to demonstrate that they meet immigrants our economy needs, who the minimum language threshold, are the most likely to succeed and fully which is level 7 of the Canadian realize their potential in Canada. Language Benchmark assessment The improvements to the FSWP points system. Applicants will be able to get grid are based on a large body of a language assessment from existing research which has consistently shown agencies designated by the Minister that language proficiency and youth and listed on the CIC website. are two of the most important factors Second, applicants will have their in the economic success of immigrants. education credentials assessed prior to The final changes to the FSWP arriving in Canada. A list of assessment selection criteria include: organizations designated by the Minimum official language thresholds Minister will be made available early and increased points for official in the New Year. The assessment of language proficiency, making language foreign educational credentials will the most important factor in the provide prospective newcomers with selection process; a more realistic understanding of how Increased emphasis on younger their credentials compare to education immigrants, who are more likely to standards in Canada. It will also give them acquire valuable Canadian experience, the opportunity to upgrade their education are better positioned to adapt to prior to coming to Canada if they choose. changing labour market conditions, It is important to note that these and who will spend a greater number changes will not apply to people who of years contributing to Canadas have applied to the FSWP prior to May economy; 4, 2013 with a qualifying arranged job Introduction of the Educational offer or under the Ph.D. stream. Credential Assessment (ECA), so As recently announced, due to the that education points awarded reflect actions taken over the past months, the foreign credentials true value in new applications under the FSWP will Canada; be processed in a few months, rather Changes to the arranged employment than a few years. In order to ensure process, allowing employers to fast processing times and to avoid hire applicants quickly, if there is a backlogs, the new FSWP will accept a demonstrated need in the Canadian fixed number of applications each year. labour market; and In the medium term, the Government Additional adaptability points for is also moving forward to develop and spousal language ability and Canadian implement an Expression of Interest work experience. (EOI) model, which will provide For too long, too To Get The Best ValueemployersDollar access to a pool of many immigrants For Your with Advertise In to Canada have experienced skilled workers.

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604.909.4088

A widely followed index of Canadian housing prices shows home prices fell in November over the month before, in 10 of 11 major markets tracked. The Teranet-National Bank House Price Index found that prices in its 11city composite dropped 0.4 per cent from October's level. "It was the fourth November monthly decline in 13 years of data, including November 2008 when the country was on the verge of recession," the TeranetNational Bank analysis said. "For the first time since February 2009, when the recession was in full swing, prices were down from the month before in 10 of the 11 metropolitan markets surveyed." Its house price index fell in every city surveyed except Calgary, where prices rose 0.4 per cent in November from October's level. Prices have dropped for four straight months in Victoria and Quebec City. In Montreal and Ottawa, it was the third straight decline. Toronto and Halifax registered their second consecutive monthly drops.

Home Prices Fall In Most Canadian Markets

Prices were also down month over month in Vancouver, Edmonton, Hamilton and Winnipeg. Cooling trend The index still shows national prices rose by 3.3 per cent over the last year. But that annual price growth figure has decelerated for 12 consecutive months a sign that prices are cooling overall. In Vancouver and Victoria, house prices have fallen over the last year by 1.4 per cent and 1.7 per cent, respectively. Canadian Real Estate Association figures released on Monday show sales nationally have slumped 12 per cent over the past year, with average prices down almost one per cent. Many housing analysts see average prices dropping next year, with big city condo markets especially vulnerable. CREA said Ottawa's moves to tighten the rules that govern mortgage lending are responsible for cooling the housing market. Finance Minister Jim Flaherty does not dispute that assessment, saying a slowdown now is better than a crash later.

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Canada News

Friday December 21, 2012

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Prime Minister Stephen Harper said he had to turn the TV off last weekend because it became too tough to watch coverage of the Newtown school massacre. "It's almost impossible to imagine how someone could do something like that to children," he said in an interview Tuesday with QMI Agency's Pierre Bruneau. "It's a massive tragedy." Last Friday, gunman Adam Lanza walked into Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn., and killed

Newtown Massacre A 'Massive Tragedy': PM

20 children and six adults. The violence has renewed debate over gun control in the U.S., but Harper said Canada's gun laws are more strict. "We won't change the foundation of our system," he said. "We abandoned the gun registry because it was costly and - according to us -- had no benefit." Harper said the Conservatives would keep permits for gun owners and other measures in place. "We're keeping a system that works, and that's key - having a system that works," he said.

Snowstorm Closes Port Mann Bridge In Metro Vancouver

BC Ferries cancelled, power outages, streets blocked by falling trees The Ministry of Transportation had closed the Port Mann Bridge in both directions indefinitely. The Port Mann Bridge will only be reopened after the Ministry of Transportation and the RCMP determines it is safe. Right now there is an engineer checking it out. There are reports of large ice chunks falling from the bridge. Several callers to the newsroom say large chunks of snow and ice smashed the hoods and windshields of their vehicles as they drove across the bridge. Ive been sitting on the Port Mann for 45 minutes. Theres huge hunks of ice and snow falling off the wires and Im sitting here with a convertible roof. Im worried one is going to come through the roof, describes one woman. Wow, that was a big chunk! If that had hit my windshield, it would have gone right through. Im getting pumbled here, on the bridge, by these chunks of snow coming off it, says one woman, also trapped in traffic on the Port Mann Bridge. Its not only the Port Mann Bridge where this is happening. This man drove through a similar situation on the Alex Fraser Bridge. Halfway past the bridge up there, all this snow is falling down, and big chunks just hit the middle of the windhield and its hard to see at the moment. He says the size of the chunks are significant. I would say when theyre coming down, theyre probably about a foot long and all of a sudden, smash, in the side of the car and the windshield.

Alert Citizen Credited For Grinch Arrest


Surrey RCMP is crediting an alert citizen for helping them successfully arrest a local Grinch. On December 15th around 12:00pm, the Surrey RCMP were dispatched to a report of a suspicious person going door to door in the area of 126th Street and 67B Avenue. The complainant called police after a male came to her door asking for donations to the BC Food Bank. The complainant, who believed the male may be up to no good, called the Surrey RCMP and provided an accurate description of the male, stating he was approximately 40 years of age, wearing a black jacket, jeans, and carrying a black umbrella. Officers conducted patrols and immediately located a male matching the description given by the complainant a block away. The male was wearing a white tag which stated BC Food Bank Association. The male had no accreditation or contact information for his alleged employer. As if not in enough trouble already, the male also provided a false name to the officers at the scene, says Surrey RCMP Cpl. Bert Paquet The 36 year old male from Delta was eventually arrested for fraud and obstruction after admitting his actions were fraudulent. He has since been released from custody and is due to appear in Surrey Provincial Court later in January 2013. This citizen did exactly what we recommend in these types of situations, says Cpl. Paquet. Her timely call and good description were keys to locating and apprehending this fraud artist. Police are reminding the public this holiday season to keep an eye on suspicious persons who come to their doors claiming to be from a charity or association and to report them. If it looks suspicious it probably is. Always ask for proper accreditation and if in doubt contact the alleged organization. Local food banks do not canvass door to door. As an alternative, you can donate directly to the Surrey Food Bank this holiday season by attending one of the Surrey RCMPs Pack the Police Car fundraisers situated at area Save-OnFoods / Price Smart Foods.

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Canada News
Woman wants to testify with her face covered in childhood sexual assault case

Friday December 21, 2012

Top Court To Rule If Witness Can Wear Niqab In Court


A case to be decided Thursday by the Supreme Court of Canada on whether a Muslim woman can wear a niqab while testifying against two men whom she says sexually assaulted her when she was a child is about a clash of values. On the one side is a religious belief said to be sincerely held, and on the other, the right of an accused to a full defence. The woman, whose identity is protected by a publication ban, accused an uncle and a cousin of repeatedly sexually assaulting her from the time she was six until she was 10. Years later, in 2007, she went to the police, but the case has not yet gone to trial. At a preliminary hearing, in a room alone with the judge, the woman took off her niqab, which is a face veil that leaves only her eyes uncovered. She told the judge, "The objection is very strong. It's a respect issue, one of modesty and one of, in Islam, we call honour." She explained she cannot show her face to any men who are not close relatives, and also said, "I, you know, I would feel a lot more comfortable if I didn't have to, you know, reveal my face. You know, just considering, the nature of the case and the nature of the allegations and I think, you know, my face is not going to show any signs of it's not going to help, it really won't." After the preliminary hearing, another court ruled the testimony with the judge alone was insufficient, and that woman should undergo a proper evidentiary hearing. The matter of whether she had to uncover her face eventually ended up before the Supreme Court. constitute "a revolutionary change in the foundations of our legal system." 'The niqab isn't as big a deal as people make it out to be' Actually, David Butt, the woman's lawyer, said the niqab "isn't as big a deal as people make it out to be." Butt contends that body language, voice tones, and eye expressions would speak volumes about his client's reliability as a witness. As to whether the woman needs the veil just for comfort reasons, Butt said, "What is religion for if not to bring comfort? Butt also argues that having a photograph taken for a driver's licence is not analogous to testifying about intimate sexual details in a courtroom in front of strangers. Butt continued that the job of the court is not to be the arbiter whether the practice of Islam really does require that women be completely covered. The issue, he said, is not to get into a debate that's internal to a particular religion, but whether the woman is telling the truth about her religious beliefs. "[The courts] essentially do what courts do best, which is to assess sincerity of belief. Courts do that all the time with witnesses," Butt said. Butt admitted that the highest court might take into account the broader social issues about the niqab, but although he concedes many see it as a symbol of female oppression, he thinks an order to remove it is another form of paternalism. "At the centre is the notion of choice ... some people's choices will be distasteful to others," he said.

A Muslim woman wearing a niqab attends a 2011 protest against islamophobia and racism organized by the Islamic Central Council of Switzerland, in Bern. Canada's top court is to hear a case about whether a Muslim woman should be allowed to wear a niqab while testifying in a sex assault case. Facial cues 'can be significant information' Lawyers for the accused men argue that facial cues "can be significant information that help the observer understand what a witness is attempting to communicate and get a sense of who the witness is and how he or she is reacting to questioning." The art of cross-examination, the lawyers contend, although they admit that questions are prepared in advance, is always partially instinctual, meaning that smiles, winces or other facial tics can be a valuable signal to the crossexaminer that it's time to change direction. The accused mens lawyers also say that is not clear whether the woman sees her niqab as a religious requirement, or as "a personal preference and a matter of comfort." Part of the court evidence is that the woman did remove her niqab to be photographed for a driver's licence, in front of a female photographer. Lawyers for the accused men point out that her religious convictions were not so strong that she refused to go through the licensing process, even though the photo could be demanded by any number of police officers who might be men. The accused mens lawyers continue, "The establishment of open and secular courts is a core value of Canadian democracy, adding that allowing a complainant to wear a veil would

All-In Airline Ticket Pricing Now In Effect For Ads


The federal government says advertised airfares for flights originating in Canada must include all relevant fees so the travelling public can easily understand the total cost. Transport Minister Denis Lebel said Tuesday that advertised prices for the public must include all taxes, fees and other charges so that consumers can clearly see the total cost of an airline ticket, with no hidden fees. The amendments apply to ads in any media for travel services within or originating in Canada. Repeat offenders can be fined up to $25,000. The "all-in" ticket price doesn't need to include fees for optional services or amenities such as in-flight entertainment, meals, beverages and baggage but the price of the options must be displayed with taxes included. Excluded from the new regulations are flights originating outside Canada, package travel services, loyalty rewards programs and charter services booked through corporate travel offices. "We are protecting Canadian air travellers by helping them see, clearly and up front, the full cost of air tickets, so they can make informed travel choices," Lebel said. "In addition to benefiting consumers by ensuring transparent advertising, these regulations will promote fair competition between all advertisers." He said offenders can be fined up to $25,000. The Canadian Transportation Agency developed the new rules after consulting industry and consumer interest groups and also meeting with provincial and foreign government officials. Some airlines announced earlier this year that they would move to an all-in approach in advance of the changes. The organization representing Canada's major airlines issued a statement Tuesday welcoming Lebel's announcement. "We genuinely appreciated the open and meaningful consultative process undertaken by the Canadian Transportation Agency," the National Airlines Council of Canada said. "The new framework is a good example of industry and government working together. We are pleased that the new rules provide clarity, maximize transparency and ultimately help the consumer make informed decisions", said NACC president George Petsikas. The National Airlines Council of Canada is a trade association founded by Air Canada, WestJet, Air Transat and Jazz Aviation LP.

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Friday December 21, 2012

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Families are their children's first teachers. As a family member you begin teaching your babies about language as you welcome them into the world with smiles and caring words. You respond to your children's coos, babbles, early words and simple sentences. By the time your children are preschoolers, they know a lot about language. You have spent many hours listening, talking, reading and writing with them. Most of the activities here are simple to do with materials found in your home or at the library. The activities can be added to your life at home as you and your children play, work and grow together. The ideas for one age group may also work for a younger or older child. Using what you know about your child's skills and interests can help you decide which activities to use. Activities and Ideas for: How Babies Learn - Birth to 8 Months Old What Do Young Babies Do? Respond to their names Enjoy listening to stories Smile when people smile at them Pick up objects with their fingers and thumbs Move objects from one hand to the other Cry, make other sounds and move their bodies Listen and respond to the sounds and voices around them Coo, gurgle, laugh and babble to themselves and others Take turns while singing and playing with another person How Do Young Babies Learn? Katie is in the bathtub splashing in the water with both hands. Her father sits on the floor next to the tub making sure she is safe. "Katie, Katie," he says as he picks up a washcloth. "Are you ready to play our special game?" Katie looks up and sees her father's smiling face. She smiles at him and laughs. He says, "Let's play Peek-aBoo,"; and puts a washcloth in front of his face. Katie reaches out and pats the top of his head. Her father says, "Peeka-Boo, Katie, I can't see you." He lowers the washcloth so his eyes are no longer covered. Katie squeals with delight. He covers his eyes again and says, "Peek-a-Boo, Katie, I still can't see you." Katie's father holds the washcloth out toward her, saying, "Your turn, Katie." She takes the washcloth from his hand and puts it in front of her face. Her father says, "Where's Katie?" Katie drops the washcloth in the water and splashes with her hands. She babbles to her father, "Dadadada. Babababa." He says, "I think you're

Helping Your Child Read And Write

Coloring

saying that you're tired of playing Peeka-Boo. Let's play with your sponges." Like many young babies, Katie is learning about language: - She knows that it's fun to play with another person. - She looks up when her father says her name. - She smiles when her father smiles at her. Katie's father helps her learn about language: - He talks with her during a daily activity - bathtime. - He says her name again and again so that she will learn to recognize it. - He takes several turns in their game then encourages her to take a turn. - He responds to her babbles as if he knows what she is saying. Activities and Ideas for Babies Listening and Talking: Young babies make sounds and move their bodies. Listen and talk to your baby throughout the day. Get to know the meaning of your baby's cries and gestures. Listen to the sounds the baby makes and watch the way the baby's body moves. Take your time while feeding, diapering and bathing your baby. Sing songs, say nursery rhymes and smile and coo back at the baby's smiles and coos. In this way your baby will learn that you think what he or she says is important and that people take turns when talking with each other. How to help your baby's caregiver: Tell your caregiver how your baby communicates with the family. Explain the meaning of your baby's cries, babbles, gestures, and words. Ask the caregiver to tell you how your baby expresses his or her wants and needs. Young babies listen to the sounds and voices around them. Talk to your baby about what you both are doing and what he or she sees and hears. "I see you looking at your mobile. I'll touch it gently to make the faces move back and forth." Tell your baby through your words and actions how much he or she is loved and valued. Give your baby simple directions with words and gestures. Point, look toward something or hold out your hand while talking to the baby. Ask, "Are you hot?" Then, lift up your arms and say, "Please lift up your arms so I can take off your sweater." Continued Next Week

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Your Health

Friday December 21, 2012

Colonoscopy
Personal history of chronic inflammatory bowel disease Reasons for the procedure A colonoscopy may be used to examine colon polyps, tumors, ulceration, inflammation, diverticula (pouches), strictures (narrowing), and foreign objects within the colon. It may also be used to determine the cause of unexplained chronic diarrhea or gastrointestinal bleeding or to evaluate the colon after cancer treatment. Colonoscopy may be indicated when the results of a barium enema and/ or sigmoidoscopy warrant further examination of the colon. There may be other reasons for your doctor to recommend a colonoscopy. Risks of the procedure As with any invasive procedure, complications may occur. Complications related to colonoscopy include, but are not limited to, the following: Persistent bleeding after biopsy or polyp removal Peritonitis (inflammation of the lining of the abdominal cavity) Perforation of the intestinal wall (rare) Nausea, vomiting, bloating, or rectal irritation caused by the bowel cleanse prep and/or procedure Adverse reaction to the sedative or pain medication There may be other risks depending on your specific medical condition. Be sure to discuss any concerns with your doctor prior to the procedure. Certain factors or conditions may interfere with a colonoscopy. These factors include, but are not limited to, the following: Use of soap suds enemas prior to the procedure, which irritate the lining of the mucosa Presence of barium from previous tests used to examine the colon (such as a barium enema) Inadequate preparation of the bowel before the procedure Problems that may interfere with the passage of the colonoscope, such as narrowing of the colon, surgical adhesions, or disease, such as chronic inflammatory disease Before the procedure Your doctor will explain the procedure to you and offer you the opportunity to ask any questions. You will be asked to sign a consent form to do the test. Read the form carefully and ask questions if something is not clear. You will be asked to fast for eight hours before the procedure, generally after midnight. You may be given additional instructions about a special diet for one to two days prior to the procedure. If you are pregnant or suspect that you are pregnant, you should notify your health care provider. Notify your doctor if you are sensitive to or are allergic to any medications, latex, tape, and anesthetic agents (local and general). Notify your doctor of all medications (prescribed and over-the-counter) and herbal supplements that you are taking. Notify your doctor if you have a history of bleeding disorders or if you are taking any anticoagulant (blood-thinning) medications, aspirin, ibuprofen, or other medications that affect blood clotting. It may be necessary for you to stop these medications prior to the procedure. Your doctor will instruct you about specific ways to prepare your bowel for the test. You may be asked to take a laxative, an enema, a rectal laxative suppository, and/ or drink a special fluid that helps prepare your bowel. Patients with diseases of the heart valves may be given antibiotics before the procedure. A sedative and pain medication will be given to provide relaxation and drowsiness before the procedure. You will need someone to drive you home afterward. Based on your medical condition, your doctor may request other specific preparation. During the procedure A colonoscopy may be performed on an outpatient basis or as part of your stay in a hospital. Procedures may vary depending on your condition and your doctor's practices. Generally, the colonoscopy follows this process: You will be asked to remove any jewelry or other objects that may interfere with the procedure. You will be asked to remove your clothing and given a gown to wear. An intravenous (IV) line may be inserted in your arm or hand. A sedative and/or pain medication may be injected into the IV. Your heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and oxygen level will be monitored during the procedure. You will be asked to lie on your left side with your knees bent towards your chest. Continued Next Week

Colonoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that allows the doctor to examine the entire length of the large intestine. Colonoscopy can assist in identifying problems with the colon, such as early signs of cancer, inflamed tissue, ulcers, and bleeding. Colonoscopy is also used to screen for colorectal cancer, the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S. and the fourth most common cancer in men and women. An endoscope, which is a long, flexible, lighted tube (also called a colonoscope), is inserted through the rectum into the colon. In addition to allowing visualization of the internal colon, the colonoscope enables the doctor to irrigate, suction, inject air, and access the bowel with surgical instruments. During a colonoscopy, the doctor may remove tissue and/or polyps for further examination and possibly treat any problems that are discovered. Other related procedures that may be used to assess problems of the colon include abdominal X-ray, computed tomography (CT scan) of the abdomen, abdominal ultrasound, barium enema, and sigmoidoscopy. Please see these procedures for additional information. Anatomy of the colon The large intestine, or colon, has four sections: Ascending colon. This extends upward on the right side of the abdomen. Transverse colon. This extends from the ascending colon across the body to the left side. Descending colon. This extends from the transverse colon

What is a colonoscopy?

downward on the left side. Sigmoid colon. This is named because of its S-shape and extends from the descending colon to the rectum. The rectum joins the anus, or the opening where waste matter passes out of the body. Screening guidelines for colorectal cancer Colorectal cancer screening guidelines for early detection from the American Cancer Society recommend that beginning at age 50, both men and women should follow one of the examination schedules below: Annual fecal occult blood test (FOBT) or fecal immunochemical test (FIT) and flexible sigmoidoscopy (FSIG) every five years FOBT or FIT every year FSIG every five years Double-contrast barium enema every five years Colonoscopy every 10 years People with any of the following colorectal cancer risk factors should begin screening procedures at an earlier age and be screened more often: Strong family history of colorectal cancer or adenomatous polyps in a first-degree relative, in a parent or sibling before the age of 60 or in two first-degree relatives of any age Family with hereditary colorectal cancer syndromes, such as familial adenomatous polyposis and hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer Personal history of colorectal cancer or adenomatous polyps

This information is provided for knowledge and educational purposes only. Individuals should visit their physicians for more information on their health.

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Your Health

Friday December 21, 2012

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Pneumonia can affect any person at any stage of life, even if they are otherwise healthy. Any factors that compromise the ability of the immune system to fight infection, or anything that adversely affects lung function, can significantly increase the risk of contracting pneumonia. Factors that could increase the risk of pneumonia include: -Age. Pneumonia is more common and sometimes more severe in children and older adults. This is because the immune systems of children have often not matured enough to fight strong infections and the immune systems of older adults have often been weakened by age and other medical conditions. Also, children and older adults tend to spend more time in close contact with many other people and so are more likely to be in areas where bacteria and viruses are spread. For example, pneumonia can spread quickly in day care facilities and nursing homes. -HIV/AIDS. HIV and AIDS are major risk factors for many infections, including pneumonia. When someone has HIV or AIDS, their immune system is seriously impaired. This means that many viruses or bacteria that The HIV virus, which causes acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), attacks the bodys immune system are usually harmless for healthy people can result in serious illness for people with HIV or AIDS. People with these conditions are particularly at risk for pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia (PCP) and are encouraged to take medication to prevent it. -Other chronic diseases. Certain illnesses can also impair the immune system and increase the risk of pneumonia. These include: - Cardiovascular disease - Lung diseases such as emphysema - Diabetes mellitus - Sickle cell anemia Additionally, people undergoing chemotherapy for cancer, as well as those who have had organs removed or transplanted, are at an increased risk for pneumonia. Other risk factors include: -Extended stays in healthcare facilities. People who spend time in hospitals are at considerable risk for hospitalacquired pneumonia. This is especially the case for those who spend time in the intensive care unit or are aided in breathing by a mechanical respirator. Mechanical breathing devices may bypass many of the defense mechanisms that the body has to keep

germs from entering the lungs. Also, strains of pneumonia contracted while hospitalized can be more dangerous than other types of pneumonia because of the increased likelihood that they have become resistant to certain antibiotics. -Smoking. Smoking has a devastating effect on many parts of the body, especially the respiratory system. Smoking can damage the fine hair-like structures (cilia) that line the bronchial tubes and trap contaminants that enter through the mouth and nose. It can also damage the air sacs (alveoli) and the lining of the lungs. In addition, smoking suppresses the immune system, making it harder to fight off infections. -Alcoholism or drug abuse. People who abuse alcohol or other drugs are at an increased risk of pneumonia for a number of reasons. Alcohol and drugs weaken the immune system, making it easier for germs to enter the respiratory system. Also, people who lose consciousness from excess alcohol or drugs are more likely to inhale vomit or other toxins from the stomach, which can lead to aspiration pneumonia. The causes of pneumonia are varied. Physicians often find that they may not be able to identify the cause even after extensive testing. Some causes of pneumonia include: -Bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae or Legionella pneumophila (the bacteria that causes Legionnaires disease). -Viruses such as influenza, measles or chickenpox. Chickenpox virus is highly contagious, causing an itchy rash, and can occur in children or adults. -Fungi such as Histoplasma capsulatum or Coccidioides immitis. -Parasites such as Toxoplasma gondii or Ascariasis. -Toxins from the stomach that have been inhaled into the respiratory system. -Chemical toxins such as pesticides or gasoline. Signs and symptoms of pneumonia The symptoms of pneumonia are similar to the symptoms of a severe cold or influenza (flu). The similarity of symptoms results in pneumonia being difficult to recognize, especially in people who have already been diagnosed with the flu. The symptoms of pneumonia also differ depending on the strength of the immune system and the cause of the pneumonia. Symptoms can begin to appear from several hours to a few days after the initial infection.

Risk factors and causes of pneumonia

Pneumonia

Most types of pneumonia may produce the following signs and symptoms: -Persistent cough -Green or rust-colored mucus (sputum) -Fever with shaking chills -Sharp pain in the chest while breathing deeply or coughing -Rapid breathing -Shortness of breath - rattling or crackling sound from the lungs (rales) when listened to through a stethoscope In addition, other types of pneumonia may produce the following symptoms: -Headache -Fatigue (sometimes lasting a long time after other symptoms disappear) -Loss of appetite Confusion Pneumonia is particularly difficult to spot in infants and children, who may not display prominent symptoms. Pneumonia could be suspected in infants and children who show the following symptoms: -Rapid breathing -Grunting sound -Fever -Lack of appetite -Abdominal pain -Vomiting In both children and adults, a physician should be consulted if the symptoms of pneumonia are experienced. Some types of pneumonia can be fatal if left untreated. Treatment options for pneumonia Treatment of pneumonia depends on which type of pneumonia is present. For bacterial pneumonia, antibiotics can be prescribed and are almost always effective in clearing the infection. Antibiotics are not effective against viral pneumonia or some other types of pneumonia. In these cases, the infection usually clears without medication.

An essential element of treatment for all types of pneumonia involves the care the patient should receive at home. This includes: -Getting adequate rest. -Drinking plenty of fluids. -Taking over-the-counter medication to help fever. However, aspirin should never be provided to children due to the risk of the rare, but potentially fatal, Reyes syndrome. -Taking mild cough suppressants. It is important not to completely suppress the cough because coughing helps the lungs clear infected matter. -Finishing all prescribed medication. Depending on the type of pneumonia it may take several weeks to recover fully, although some symptoms may start to disappear after a few days of treatment. With certain strains of pneumonia, such as mycoplasma pneumonia, the patient may experience fatigue long after other symptoms cease. Healthy adults with pneumonia are rarely hospitalized because home treatment for pneumonia is usually simple and effective. However, children and older adults, as well as those with complications arising from pneumonia, are sometimes admitted to the hospital for treatment. While hospitalized, patients may be administered oxygen therapy and antibiotics through an intravenous (I.V.) drip. The period of hospitalization varies. Sometimes, complications arise from pneumonia that must be treated separately. For example, fluid may collect around the outside of the lungs which a physician may have to extract by inserting a syringe into the chest cavity. Bacteremia occurs when the bacteria from pneumonia enters the bloodstream. It is a serious condition but can usually be treated with antibiotics.

This information is provided for knowledge and educational purposes only. Individuals should visit their physicians for more information on their health.

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Friday December 21, 2012

Ekta Kapoor Becomes A Student Again! married but the 37-year-old not getting

The firebrand producer has signed up for a course at Harvard After producing numerous soap operas on television series and super successful movies, Ekta Kapoor finally has some plans for herself! No, shes

is all set to be a student again! Buzz is that Ekta has enrolled herself for a management level course at Harvard University. While we were wondering how she would manage with two big projects lined up for next year (Shootout at Wadala and Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai 2), the lady made sure they are taken care of! Ekta confirmed the news and added that its a three-year degree course where shell have to be at university for a month every year. I want my company to attain the best possible growth. I have always wanted to take my knowledge to the next level. In my absence, my mom and dad will jointly look into the day to day affairs, remarked Ekta. Apparently Ekta has enrolled for a business development programme and will be flying off to Harvard on May 3, 2013. While Shootout... will release on May 1, 2013, Once Upon... is scheduled to release on August 8, 2013. During the post production and promotional events, Ekta will definitely be in the country, says a friend.

The Duo Have Been Asked To Join Farah Khans New Film Choreographer/director/actress Farah starring opposite to SRK in Chennai
Khans Happy New Year seems to be a reunion project in more ways than one. Besides it being her patchup venture with buddy Shah Rukh, guess whos been roped in to the film as well? We hear its none other than Priyanka Chopra! Even though we wondered whether the whole SRKGauri-Priyanka episode had slipped Farahs mind, a source says that PCs name popped up during the planning of the cast long before that issue came up. Apparently Priyanka has managed to edge out the competition of other actresses for Happy New Year. A source reports, Deepika is already

Express, Anushka had date problems, and Kareena is enjoying her marriage time off and is in no hurry to take up anything soon. What about Shah Rukhss other supposed favourite, Katrina? With Priyanka trying hard to step into Salman Khans camp, SRK tried his best leverage with Katrina but the actress showed no interest as she stonewalled all his efforts, adds the source. On the other hand, Priyanka is in talks with Salman to sign a film. Will the actress be able to spare dates for HNY with Krrish 3, Gunday and Mary Kom already in her kitty?

As 2013 is round the corner, the audiences of Hindi films await some new films and concepts. A few films that will be releasing in 2013 have already been garnering a lot of interest from the movie-buffs. Let us take a look at some of the much-awaited films of 2013. Matru Ki Bijli Ka Mandola- This Vishal Bharadwaj film is a comedydrama that stars Imran Khan Anushka Sharma and Pankaj Kapur. It will release on the 11th of January. It is typically based on the bucolic surroundings of Haryana and focuses on the lives of the above-mentioned trio. Race 2- This is an Abbas-Mustan film that will be releasing on the 25th of January. It has an ensemble cast of John Abraham, Saif Ali Khan, Deepika Padukone and Jacqueline Fernandes. The film is a sequel to 2008 hit Race. It belongs to the genre of suspense thriller and is all geared to take on the audiences for a ride. Shootout at Wadala- This film stars John Abraham in the lead. Others include Anil Kapoor, Tusshar Kapoor and Kangana Ranaut. It revolves around the life of gangster Manya Surve and is about the first-ever encounter that has been filed in the

Upcoming Bollywood Films Of 2013

police history of Mumbai. The film will be releasing on the 1st of May 2013 and has huge expectations to meet from the audiences. Krissh 3- This film has Hrithik Roshan and Priyanka Chopra play the lead roles. It is a sequel to Krissh that released in 2006. Kangana Ranaut plays a meaty negative role in the film. It is being claimed that the film will release during Diwali. Dhoom 3- Aamir Khan joins the team of Abhishek and Uday in Dhoom 3. This film has become a brand in itself. Aamir has a negative role in the film, while Katrina Kaif is paired opposite him. The film is definitely going to cause stirs when it releases. Gunday- This film has the young lot of the industry- Arjun Kapoor and Ranveer Singh- play mafias. The film also stars Priyanka Chopra and is being produced by Yash Raj Films. Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani- This film stars ex-flames Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone. The film is being produced by Karan Johar and Ayan Mukerji of Wake Up! Sid fame is directing this film. His sense of filmmaking is quite refreshing as was seen in his directorial debut and with such a star-cast the film will surely grab eyeballs.

Dabangg 2 is an upcoming Bollywood action film directed and produced by Arbaaz Khan under the banner of Arbaaz Khan Productions. It is a sequel to the 2010 film Dabangg and is written by Dilip Shukla. Story is set in the city of Kanpur. The film will feature Salman Khan and Sonakshi Sinha reprising their roles from the previous film, whilst Prakash Raj plays the main antagonist.[3] Development of the project commenced after the release of Dabangg, which turned out to be a worldwide blockbuster. Filming began on March 9, 2012 in Kamalistan Studio in Mumbai. It is slated for release on December 21, 2012. The first look poster unveiled on November 8, 2012, whilst the theatrical trailer was premiered on November 10, 2012, on

Dabangg 2

Khan's reality show Bigg Boss 6. Its trailer was also released in cinemas on the day of Diwali along with Son of Sardaar. Some industry watchers expect this film to be one of the biggest grossers of the year, in line with other Salman films of recent years. The first teaser of Murder 3 and Special Chabbis will be attached with Dabangg 2. Kai Po Che! and Bhaag Milkha Bhaag trailers will also be released with Dabangg 2. There are speculations that Dabangg 3 can come which will be a prequel. In Dabangg 2, Chulbul Pandey has to battle the evil goon turned politician Baccha Bhaiyya. As he tries to strengthen his family ties with his father and brother. And romance his newly wed wife. And remain 'Dabangg' (fearless) no matter what.

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Friday December 21, 2012

35

Salman Khan Shocked Us After Carrying Woman's Clothes In His Luggage!

Vidya Balan, Siddharth Roy Kapur Tie The Knot In A Quiet Wedding
Actress Vidya Balan and UTV head Siddharth Roy Kapur were married on the morning of December 14. The wedding took place at the Green Mile bungalow in Bandra, contrary to earlier reports of a temple wedding in Chembur. The morning wedding was conducted in a mix of South Indian and Punjabi styles, in keeping with both the bride and groom's cultural traditions. Vidya is Tamilian and Siddharth is Punjabi. According to reports, the wedding rituals went on for over an hour at the well-decorated venue in the presence of family members of the bride and groom. According to reports, the actress underwent three changes in costume during the wedding ceremony, including a mustard sari with a pink blouse, matching the groom's yellow kurta and pink turban. Vidya wore flowers in her hair and a big smile. After the wedding ceremony was over, the bride and the groom came out for a photo and posed happily for the waiting cameras. By this time, Vidya was in a tomato red banarasi sari with gold jewellery and sindoor on her forehead. According to sources, Vidya is said to be excited about wearing toe rings on both her feet after the actual ceremony, like newly-wed Tamil brides. She will also sport the thaali, a woven yellow thread with small photographs of Lord Balaji and his consort Ambana. Vidya and Siddharth will likely play a traditional wedding 'game' that involves searching for a ring in a bucket of milk and water. After their quiet wedding, the couple intends to send sweets to people from the industry. The couple's wedding celebrations kicked off on December 11 with a private sangeet that was attended by close family members of the bride and the groom. Vidya wore a kanjeevaram sari and heavy gold jewellery. Vidya's mehendi, held at her Khar residence in Mumbai on Dec 12, was also a private affair like her sangeet. Again, only close family and friends were invited for the ceremony. The only celebrity to be invited was veteran actress Rekha, a close friend of the much-younger Vidya. The bride-to-be was glowing in a sari designed by her favourite Sabyasachi Mukherjee. She wore it in Bengali style with floral ornaments. Despite the function being private, Vidya obliged the waiting cameras by coming out for a brief photo-op. The couple has so far remained tight lipped about their wedding and post wedding plans though Vidya will reportedly take a sabbatical. The couple will reportedly be hosting a reception in Chennai.

According to the recent reports, superstar Salman Khan was spotted carrying woman's clothes in his bag at the airport. But, there's nothing to get shocked about as it was just a minor case of bag exchange. Khan, who flew to Hyderabad for a performance, met with an unusual incident after his baggage got mistakenly exchanged with a lady co-passenger. A leading daily reported that a fellow passenger in the Mumbai-Hyderabad flight mistakenly took Salman Khan's bag and left hers behind on the conveyer belt. When the actor opened the other

It's nearly the end of the year and award functions are something that everyone is looking forward to. There is no doubt that 2012 has been a fantastic year for films, as we have seen some brilliant performances on screen. This year especially has many films with women-oriented roles. Priyanka Chopra and Deepika Padukone are two actresses who have certainly impressed the audiences with their films this year and seems like these two girls have already started bagging awards for the films.

Priyanka And Deepika Win At Big Star Awards

bag, he was shocked to discover women's clothes. Then, Salman's bodyguards and assistants started seeking for the correct piece of bag. Reportedly later, the airport authority was informed and "they were on their toes looking for the right bag." After all this, they finally traced the woman's contact details. "She was immediately called back and told that the bag she was carrying wasn't hers but Salman Khan's," the source told the daily. It was then the woman returned back to the airport and handed over the actor's bag to the authorities.

At the recently held Reliance Big Star Entertainment awards, Priyanka has won the Best Actress for her role in Barfi where she played the character of Jhilmil, an autistic girl. While Deepika was not far behind as she won the Best Actress in a Romantic Role award for her role in Cocktail. However, the awards season is yet to begin and it'll only be early next year when one can tell which Bollywood actress goes home with maximum accolades for her perform in 2012.

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Friday December 21, 2012

A lot of Bollywood actors were paired opposite each other for the first time this year. While some of these new jodis failed to impress, some of them became hit pairs. Here are 5 of the best Bollywood on screen jodis this year. Shah Rukh Khan and Katrina Kaif

Bollywoods Best On-Screen Jodis In 2012!


the best on-screen romantic jodi and the movie became a blockbuster. Arjun Kapoor and Parineeti Chopra were considered as the cutest couple on-screen. The romantic comedy won a million hearts worldwide and the movie was declared a hit at the Box Office.

Even though Priyanka Chopra grabbed all the eye balls in Barfi!, Ileana managed to make a good impact on the audience along with Ranbir Kapoor. They look perfectly compatible and their chemistry in their scenes together in the film was sizzling. The movie became a part of the 100 crore club. Saif Ali Khan and Diana Penty Saif Ali Khan and Diana Penty came together for the first time in Cocktail. Although Deepika stole the show, this new jodi was loved by one and all. Diana Penty made her debut with this film and she delivered an excellent performance.

Shah Rukh Khan and Katrina Kaif were seen together for the first time in Yash Chopras Jab Tak Hai Jaan. while some sections of the audience found this pairing inappropriate others loved their chemistry. They also won the award for

Debutant Arjun Kapoor was paired opposite Parineeti Chopra in his first movie Ishaqzaade. The movie was received with an awesome response and Arjun and Parineeti made a wonderful pair on-screen. The movie was declared a super hit because of their superb performances. Imran Khan and Kareena Kapoor Both these dynamic actors were paired together for the first time in Karan Johars Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu. They

Ranbir Kapoor and Ileana DCruz

Bejoy Nambiars film David had been in the news for a long time. It was reported that the makers were doing the film with Vivek Oberoi, but later he backed out. It was finally Neil Nitin Mukesh who had been selected for the lead role. The film has been produced by Reliance Entertainment and belongs to the genre of suspense thriller. Neil Nitin Mukesh plays the role of a gangster in the film. David is set in the 70s and extends for three eras. Neil will be sporting a thick moustache in the film and will go for a complete retro look. Bejoy said recently in an interview,

Neil Nitin Mukeshs David To Release In 2013


We had a very specific look in mind before we started work. We had a few references, and we did a couple of trial runs, and finally, settled for this look. Neil experimented with his hair and also grew a moustache. What is special is that he looks very different from any of his earlier films. Neil spoke excitedly about why he was keen on doing this film. He said When Bejoy approached me, I fell in love with the script from the word go. I knew it was another step forward for me after playing dark characters in Johnny Gaddaar and Players. When my look was being discussed, I gave him a couple of suggestions and he was very open to it. The film is being made in two versions Tamil and Hindi. It is unique in the fact that it has 3 characters play three different stories in the Hindi version that are all called by the same name David. The other two male actors who are playing this role are Vikram of Raavan fame and Vinay Virmani of Speedy Singhs fame. Bejoy ardently wanted Neil to play the role of gangster in the Hindi version. His portions have also been extensively

shot in London. However, his character has been kept out of the Tamil version of the film. Bejoy speaking about Neil said, I had seen his work and I knew he was a good actor; he was my David of the 70s. I'm very satisfied with the way the film has shaped up. Neil is all praises for his director as is evident from this, Bejoy Nambiar is a bloody incredible director. I consider him the Quentin Tarantino of our cinema. Lara Dutta, Tabu and Isha Shervani will also be seen in the film.

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Friday December 21, 2012

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At The Movies
The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey (G) * * * *

Bold Vision!
By ROBERT WALDMAN

Christmas comes early as fantasy reigns supreme with The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey. Presented by Warner Brothers and MGM Studios this film marks the second major hit for the latter studio, having reintroduced global audiences to Agent 007 in Skyfall this November. Believe all the hype over The Hobbit. Based on the masterpiece novel by acclaimed writer J.R. Tolkien The Hobbit is a rambling and exciting story that though a touch long at 169 minutes is spellbinding. Spectacular is the only word relevant to describe how director Peter Jackson (The Lord of the Rings) breathes life into this literary classic. Conflict is in the air as trouble engulfs Middle Earth. Only a hobbit named Bilbo can save the day. Egged on by master wizard Gandalf, played with considerable relish by Ian McKellen the pair embark on a momentous journey which sees them, and their dwarf colleagues, encounter

all sorts of evil creations, creatures big and small. Fans of giants, dragons, malicious trolls and others will be on the edge of their seats in this classic chase epic that pits good against evil with enough sly witty humour to keep the masses entertained. Brilliant writing sets the stage as a group of dwarves go on a cross country trek into the bowels of Middle Earth to regain their once proud kingdom. There are epic battles on the horizon and sweeping cinematography that is truly captivating. All sorts of wild and weird creatures populate this tantalizing fantasy. This film is so visually stunning its bound to be on the short list to come down heavily come Oscar time. Over the past few years there have been a plethora of 3-D movies. Now, for a change, the 3-D effects are good with lots of depth to further flesh out the dangers our hobbit and friends endure.

With a stunning look, humourous moments and a campy cameo by horror great Christopher Lee (The Man with the

Golden Gun) The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey is a film whose time has come and not a moment too soon, my precious.

The success of any suspense thriller depends a lot on how well the crew manages to keep its key plot point or character under wraps. And the recent box-office response to Talaash, a thriller that may have suffered a bit after the suspense element went viral on the internet, was an eye opener for filmmakers dealing with this genre. Pre-empting any such damaging whisper campaign, Ekta Kapoor, who is co-producing Ek Thi Daayan (starring Emraan Hashmi, Konkona Sen Sharma, Kalki Koechlin and Huma Qureshi) along with Vishal Bhardwaj, has introduced a confidentiality clause in her contract that forbids the cast and crew from sharing or 'leaking' any information pertaining to the identity of the 'daayan' in the film. And if any cast or crew member were found guilty, they would be sued for the damages. Evidently, there is a lot riding on this character. While Non-disclosure Agreements are fairly common in the industry, this would be the first time a production house has sought to protect a plot or character from spoilsports. The film's spokesperson confirmed the development and said it was Ekta's idea, seconded by her senior team members.

Ekta Protects Ek Thi Daayan Suspense Legally

According to a source close to the producer, her decision was also brought about by the 'proliferation of social networking sites' and the damage they cause to the film by encouraging users to share vital information about the plot or characters online and elsewhere. Ekta's decision has been welcomed by a large section of the film fraternity. In fact, Vishesh Films, which has been making suspense thrillers, is already exploring the possibility of including such a clause for their next film Murder 3. "It won't be a bad idea," said Mahesh Bhatt, the head honcho of the production house and added, "What Ekta has done would definitely add to the moral responsibility of the cast and crew. The legal consequences could act as a deterrent." To protect her film's USP, Ekta and her director Kannan Iyer have also decided to shoot the climax at the end of the schedule, closer to its April release date. "This is also a departure from the trend, since most filmmakers shoot the critical shots way beforehand," says a source close to the film, adding, "And that is how crucial information about the film often makes its way from the set to the social networking sites. Ekta wanted to protect her film from all such possible attacks."

Ghajini director AR Murugadoss gears up for his second Bollywood film which is a Hindi remake of Tamil film titled, Thuppaki and the director ardently wants to rope in Sonakshi Sinha opposite Akshay Kumar. The female lead needs to be heavyweight and looks like a boxer and the Dabangg girl seems to fit the bill. Ishaqzaade star Parineeti Chopra, Cocktail actor Diana Penty and even Kajal Agarwal, the original actress of the movie were at first considered for the role but finally Sonakshi bagged the role. Parineeti had to leave the chance of pairing opposite Akshay due to her contract with Yash Raj banner. "Parineeti was in talks for the role, Diana and Kajal were not very high on the makers' priority list. Sonakshi was always on Murugadoss's mind. The idea was to cast a girl who can match Akshay's machismo with an unapologetic attitude. And she

Sonakshi To Romance Akshay For The Fourth Time

has proved she can do that with the Dabangg series." Interestingly, after Rowdy Rathore, Joker and the unreleased Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai 2, the Thuppakki remake will be Sonakshi's fourth film with Akshay. She was also seen in the item number Govinda in Akshay's hit film, OMG: Oh My God. It is also heard that Akshay also wished to cast Sonakshi in the movie though he is not involved in the casting process. "The casting was Murugadoss's call. Akshay is friends with Sonakshi and her family, but he has been too busy with Khiladi 786 and the shooting of Boss to participate in these decisions," adds the insider. The film will be produced by Akshay's Hari Om Entertainment and Vipul Shah's Sunshine Pictures and the shooting will begin early next year. The script has been modified to suit both south and north Indian audience.

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Travel
Yasawa Islands Vacation and Travel Guide

Friday December 21, 2012

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Continued From Last Week


Bird watching in Kadavu Kadavu is one of the least developed islands in Fiji. But thats the charm of it. There are no banks here and only a few roads and small resorts. The islands residents depend on subsistence farming. Kadavu is home to 10,167 Fijians, who live in about 60 villages on the island. In the 1870s, steamers on their way to New Zealand and Australia would arrive at the whaling station at Galoa Harbor to pick up passengers and goods. Back then Kadavu was considered as a possible location for a new capital of Fiji. But instead, Suva was chosen, and Kadavu retained its sleepy, rural atmosphere. Only in recent years has the outside world started to discover Kadavu, with snorkeling, diving and surfing being the main attractions. Great Astrolabe Reef The Great Astrolabe Reef is a large barrier reef stretching for 100 kilometers (62 miles) around the south and east of the island. It is one kilometer (0.6 miles) wide and one of Fijis prime scuba diving areas. A great variety of marine life can be observed here. Surrounding the reef is a lagoon containing ten islands, the largest of which is Ono. The reef was named by Dumont dUrville, a French explorer who almost lost his ship, the Astrolabe, here in 1827. The Ono Channel with its protected waters provides good ocean kayaking opportunities. Kayak rentals and tours

Vacationing In Fiji

Airport Security Screening First Time Flyers


Going through Security Checks for First Flight, Know What to Expect screener is aware of them. faster; dont forget to wear socks, since Carry-on luggage cannot contain any the security area floors can get quite dirty. sharp objects, weapon, guns, flammable Wheelchairs, stroller, car seats and items, martial arts weapons, or tools, other heavy duty equipment all need unless the tools are under 7 inches in to be screened, but they may not fit on length. Lighters with no fluid are also the belt, so a TSA screener might check allowed. Carry-on luggage rules limit them separately. Purses, laptop cases to a certain size and shape. Theres a and other carry-on luggage need to be metal testing box right outside the placed flat on the belt; laptops must be entrance to security; if the luggage fits out of their case and in a bin. There are inside it, its okay to carry-on. Medical special laptop bags on the market that equipment, such as a CPAP machine, open up so the laptop doesnt need to will be checked by the TSA screener. be removed before it goes through the What to Expect at Airport Security x-ray scanner. Checks The bag with liquids in it needs to The first step in clearing airport be in the bin; its not a bad idea to security is to show a boarding pass and put cameras, cell phones and other photo ID to the TSA screener. The TSA electronic devices in the bin so they screener will make a small mark on the dont attract extra scrutiny. Keys and boarding pass that indicates whether or change from pockets go in a small not extra screening will be done at the bowl; these are usually found right metal detector. People are singled out at the entrance to the metal detector. for a number of reasons for additional Food can be brought through security, screening: their name, nervous as long as its not liquid, but expect it behavior, or because theyre the to draw extra scrutiny. fifteenth person in the line. Sometimes Dont walk through the metal detector its just a mystery. until all items have gone into the x-ray The conveyor belts that carry checked scanner; have boarding pass in hand luggage through the security x-ray to show the TSA screener. Picture IDs scanner will be right ahead. Every are not required at this point. If the passenger needs to take their coat and machine beeps, expect to be asked to shoes off, and place them in a bin. empty pockets. Being pulled into a Wearing slip on shoes makes getting small area for additional screening is through the security checkpoint a little to be expected if the alarm keeps going off. People with metal devices from surgery can set off the machine, so be sure to let the agent know. People wearing casts or splints will be pulled for extra screening; the cast and skin around it will be tested for traces of explosives. What to Do if Pulled for Extra Airport Security Screening Dont panic! Additional screening is very common. Do whatever the TSA screener says to do; cracking jokes or being a smart one could be a very costly mistake. Expect to be asked to stand with arms straight out; the TSA screener will wave the wand over the skin or clothing. Women can asked to be checked by a female if thats more comfortable. Remember that agents are just doing their job; theyre not trying to annoy people. Being Comfortable With Airport Security Screening Airport security checks are now a permanent part of the flying experience. Knowing what to expect and paying attention to the carry-on rules make getting through airport security screening a breeze. Dont forget to bring a government issue photo ID and a quart sized zip top bag for liquids. Stay calm, dont get flustered or angry, and dont make jokes of any kind about security, and getting through airport security will be painless.

are available. Surfing is best at Vesi Passage, but a boat is required to get here. Rotuma Vacation and Travel Guide Rotuma is about as far as you can go from the heart of the Fiji island archipelago without actually leaving it. The tiny volcanic island encompasses just 5 by 14 kilometers (3.1 by 8.7 miles) and is about 600 kilometers (373 miles) north of Viti Levu. It is one of the most isolated Fiji islands, and theres a local saying that if you can find Rotuma on a map, then its a pretty good map. There are also a few even smaller islets that belong to Rotuma, including Uea Island, Hatana Island, Hofiua Island (Split Island), Solnoho Island, Solkolpe Island, Afgaha Island and Hauatiu Island. Population in Rotuma Rotuma has a population of about 2,800; its a small, but unique

indigenous ethnic group within the Fijian archipelago with their own distinctive language and Polynesian appearance (Rotumans are lighterskinned than Fijians). Even though Rotuma has been politically part of Fiji since 1881, the local island culture is more similar to the one in Tonga, Samoa, Uvea and Futuna, which are all Polynesian islands located to the east. Rotuma climate Rotumas climate is hotter and more humid than other parts of Fiji. The island isnt really prepared for tourism, so it helps to know someone before you go. However, a permit or invitation to visit Rotuma is not required. For visitors who are looking for an unspoiled, pristine and idyllic tropical island, Rotuma is the place to go. In other words, it is mainly a place for those who want to go where few others have ever gone. Most visitors to Rotuma are friends

or relatives of local residents. Also, getting here isnt cheap, so you should plan to stay at least a few days to make it worth it. Not that youll have much choice anyway, since Air Fiji only flies to Rotuma once a week. And the boat from Suva takes several days to get here. Youll only find guest houses on Rotuma; there are no hotels and no restaurants or other tourist facilities or shops. Things to do on Rotuma include hiking, swimming, snorkeling and other outdoor activities. Your hosts may also be able to get a small boat for you for diving excursions. The main reason why foreign visitors come to Rotuma is to experience life on a truly remote island seldom seen by foreigners. Rotuman women are known to weave fine white mats. The islands vegetation is lush, and Fijis sweetest oranges are grown here. Also, the kava from Rotuma is noted for its strength. Sights to see include deserted beaches (such as Vaioa Beach, which is one of the finest in the Pacific), the islands highest peak (Mt. Suelhof at 256 m 840 ft), a cave with a freshwater pool (at Fapufa) and the archaeological site Sisilo Hill, an ancient burial ground. Visitors to Rotuma should keep in mind that theres no bank on the island, so one should bring all the money one expects to spend for the entire stay. Also, transportation to and from Rotuma can be unpredictable, so visitors should have a flexible schedule.

First time or occasional flyers have lots to worry about; going through airport security screening without breaking any rules shouldn't be one of them. Its not hard to have a great first time flying experience. It takes advance planning, an understanding of the carry-on luggage rules, and awareness of what's required to get through security in record time. The New Airport Security Screening Rules The tragedy of 9-11 completely changed airline travel convenience, and not for the better for passengers. In the US, the Transportation Security Administration, TSA for short, now dictates what can and cant be carried through airport security checks onto the plane. Every passenger needs a government issued photo ID and a boarding pass to get through airport security checks. A passport is acceptable. The new 3-1-1 for carry-on rule is the one that gives new flyers the most trouble; passengers can take aboard liquids, gels and creams that are in bottles containing 3.4 ounces or less. All liquids must be placed in 1 quartsized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag; each person is allowed 1 bag only. Baby food, medications and formula or breast milk are exempt from the 3-11 carry-on rule, as long as the TSA

40 www.fijitimescanada.com
If you've considered the Honda Civic in small-car shopping and are mourning that it's simply not what it used to be, you should instead take a look across the lot at the Fit. As Honda's entry-level model, it covers the bases that the Civic used

Autos

Friday December 21, 2012

2013 Honda Fit


to; and it has a lot of the simple, smart Honda small-car charm that, frankly, is missing from the current Civic. And really, thanks to a phenomenally good, space-efficient design, the smaller Fit manages to feel nearly as roomy thanks to its tall, upright body style and still-best-in-class 'Magic Seat' seat-folding arrangement. The function-over-form approach is obvious in the way that the 2013 Honda Fit interior tends to make much better design sense than its exterior. Just don't expect even a gram of sex appeal; from some angles, the Fit looks a bit like a scaled-down minivan on the outside. Inside, the Fit has an airier feel than in some other small cars, with a relatively low beltline and a vast expanse of dashboard ahead, due to the rakish windshield. The Fit only offers 117 horsepower; yet it has a way of feeling surprisingly frisky when you're driving around town. One of the keys to that isn't its power output, but that the attention given to steering, handling, and maneuverability all help make the most of it. On tight streets and in places where precision matters, the Fit feels crisp and tossable. Take it out on the highway, and it's stable and secure, though a bit noisy. Packaging, seating, and cargo versatility are phenomenally good in the 2013 Honda Fit. If you're crossshopping many small cars, you'll have no problem picking out the Fit's key differences, in that it manages to fit (yes, the name's appropriate here) a lot more usable space into a parking footprint that's strictly subcompact. In back, there's enough headroom and legroom for two adultsor three kidsand the so-called Magic Seat folds flat by lifting a single lever and pushing the seatback forward, with no need to remove rear headrests in the process. Factor in a low cargo floor, and even under-seat storage, and you get the sort of vertical space to fit the sorts of things, like loveseats, potted plants, or in some cases bikes. The Fit isn't quite the highest-rated subcompact for safety, but it remains one of the better picks in its class and includes a respectable roster of safety features. It's been an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick, although in federal NCAP testing it hasn't fared as well--with a four-star rating overall. Whether or not the 2013 Honda Fit satisfies with respect to features could depend a lot on your expectations surrounding connectivity. On one hand, it's definitely no strippeddown small car, and you won't find manual windows or have to skip air conditioning. But on the other hand, you won't find satellite radio on offer at all, and Bluetooth connectivity is reserved for top Fit Sport models optioned with the navigation system-stickering over $20k.

We Repair ALL Makes & Models of Vehicles

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-- Complete Automotive Repairs - Cars & Light Trucks -GOVERNMENT CERTIFIED TECHNICIANS

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Fiji-Sun Times Canada


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604-597-9466

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Lifestyle

Friday December 21, 2012

41

Dont underestimate the power of food to help keep you healthyresearchers are finding more and more edible solutions to everyday ailments. Some common foods that will help you fend off the flu this season 1. Raw garlic

garlic? Add a few extra cloves to a soup or stir-fry. Even if garlic is cooked, it still has sulfur-containing compounds, which have anti-microbial activity as well. 2. Onions

Flu-Fighting Foods

If youre already feeling ill, traditional Indian medicine (called Ayurveda) recommends using spices to help sweat out a fever: Sip a tea from a mixture of boiling water, 1/2 teaspoon each of cinnamon and coriander and 1/4 teaspoon of powdered ginger to help bring your temperature down.

you cant find fresh berries during the colder months, stock up on the frozen variety. Eating frozen berries isnt as good as eating them fresh, but its better than eating them cooked. Run frozen berries under cold water to thaw and eat them in salads, smoothies or yogurt parfaits. 5. Chicken soup

4. Berries Like garlic, onions also contain the antimicrobial compounds allion and allicin. To get this super foods full flufighting action - consume a serving of raw onions every few hours. If that seems difficult, add extra servings to your meals, like in a French Onion Soup. 3. Spices Spices such as turmeric, cloves and cinnamon are packed with antioxidants, which help improve the function of the immune system. Consuming a teaspoon of spices every day to help ward off the flu. Try mixing some cinnamon into your morning oatmeal or sprinkling extra nutmeg over a bowl of apple sauce. fat-soluble vitamins A, E, D and K and carotenoidsour invaluable antioxidant nutrientsand to eliminate them from the system. Never mind the fact that Olestra causes stomach upset and other digestive problems, its consumption encourages people to skip over fruits and vegetables for snacks that appear to offer no threat. 4. Nitrates. Found at high levels in cured meats such as bacon and hot dogs, nitrates preserve colour and prevent microbes from taking up residence. But theyre bad really bad. The nitrate itself is harmless, but it can convert to nitrite in your body, which in turn can form nitrosamines, powerful cancer-causing chemicals. Whenever possible, look for nitrate-free organic meats. If you must eat foods containing nitrates, take extra vitamin C as it is known to prevent the conversion to nitrosamines in your stomach. 5. Alcohol. Im not talking here about moderate amounts of red wine, but excessive amounts of alcohol. Liver toxicity is the main issue when we exceed our limits, and this, as weve

This super food is a powerful flu fighter. Garlic contains compounds called allion and allicin, which have direct antiviral effects. If you happen to come in contact with a flu virus, then garlic can help destroy it before it becomes a full-blown flu in the body. To get the most out of garlics flufighting properties, its best to chew a raw clove every three or four hours. If you cant bear the taste, try cutting cloves into pieces and swallowing them down like pills. Mixing crushed garlic with honey, which is also reputed to have antiviral properties. Still not in love with idea of eating raw You probably know which foods are good for you, but do you know which ones are bad for you? Dr. Bryce Wylde gives us his list of the 10 foods we should absolutely avoid. In his book, The Antioxidant Prescription, Dr. Bryce Wylde addresses what science has discovered to be the true underlying cause of disease: free radicals. Luckily, free radical damage can be avoided, especially if you avoid these foods. 1. Fast food. You dont need me to go into more detail about fast foods. Avoid em. 2. Hydrogenated fats. As we all know by now, these fats must be avoided because they cause heart disease. Theyve been used for years in snack foods, bakery items and margarine. Avoid buying cookies, crackers, baked goods or anything else that has hydrogenated oil or trans-fats on the ingredients list. 3. Olestra is a synthetic fat used to make non-fat potato chips and other snacks. Youd think, with all the bad rap fat has garnered, a non-fat fat would be great. But Olestra has been shown to bind with

Worst Foods For Aging

All berries have high concentrations of antioxidants to help fight off flu viruses, but blueberries pack the most punch. When tested against other foods, blueberries were found to have more antioxidants than 40 other fruits and vegetables. Eating at least one serving (1/2 cup) of raw berries every day to help you stay healthy during the flu season. If

Grandma was right to load you up with her own special brew. Researchers are finding that soup works to ward off viruses. One theory is that hot soup raises the temperature in the nose and throat, which creates an unwelcoming environment for viruses that thrive in cool and dry places. Researchers found that the chicken itself has flu-fighting properties. Homemade chicken soup has protein groups that have been shown to have anti-viral activity. However, the soup has to be homemade to ward off viruses. Stuff out of a can isnt going to have the same therapeutic value. (Thats why pop bottlers try to imitate it.) 9. High-fat and high-sodium snacks. These include chips, even if they are made with vegetable oil. Try to avoid these. The balance of fat in our diets has shifted too far towards the omega-6 variety found in most processed vegetable oils. We way overdo salt, leading to many cases of high blood pressure. And theres now evidence that too many of these fats and sodiumrich foods may be leading to specific chronic diseases. One reason we want to supplement the diet with the necessary omega-3 oils is to regain the proper omega balance and prevent everything from inflammation to heart disease. 10. Frozen meals. They may not be inherently bad for you if they have all the right ingredients in them, but they do keep you from eating fresh, whole, natural foods that contain more nutrients and fibre and disease-fighting phytochemicals. You may be tempted to excuse them as better than fast food. You may be sometimes pressured for time. But dont let simple laziness displace real foods in your diet.

learned, causes free radical excess. 6. Raw oysters and sushi are great but they can carry deadly bacteria that can cause severe illness or death. You take a big risk every time you consume them. To date, no government or independent body inspects seafood for safety or will guarantee its quality. Oysters and fish are usually safe and nutritious foods if you cook them first. 7. Saturated animal fats include the fatty meats, especially beef and pork, and the skin on poultry. It also includes full-fat dairy products such as cheese, milk and cream. Fatty meat and dairy products do have some contributions to make to a dietincluding nutrients that feed your brainbut not many that cant be found elsewhere. 8. Soda pop. This is a poor way to get fluids in the short term and a great way to develop diabetes in the longer term. Pop is full of sugar or artificial sweeteners and often contains caffeine, artificial colours and flavours. Replace pop by mixing sparkling water with fresh, pure juice. Bonus: the sparkling juice tastes better than pop.

This information is provided for knowledge and educational purposes only. Individuals should visit their physicians for more information on their health.

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For Women

Friday December 21, 2012

Domestic Violence and Abuse


Signs that your abuser is NOT changing: Avoid small, enclosed spaces without exits (such as closets or bathrooms) or rooms with weapons (such as the kitchen). If possible, head for a room with a phone and an outside door or window. Come up with a code word. Establish a word, phrase, or signal you can use to let your children, friends, neighbors, or co-workers know that youre in danger and the police should be called. Make an escape plan Be ready to leave at a moments notice. Keep the car fueled up and facing the driveway exit, with the drivers door unlocked. Hide a spare car key where you can get it quickly. Have emergency cash, clothing, and important phone numbers and documents stashed in a safe place (at a friends house, for example). Practice escaping quickly and safely. Rehearse your escape plan so you know exactly what to do if under attack from your abuser. If you have children, have them practice the escape plan also. Make and memorize a list of emergency contacts. Ask several trusted individuals if you can contact them if you need a ride, a place to stay, or help contacting the police. Memorize the numbers of your emergency contacts, local shelter, and domestic violence hotline. If You Stay If you decide at this time to stay with your abusive partner, there are some things you can try to make your situation better and to protect yourself and your children. Contact the domestic violence/ sexual assault program in your area. They can provide emotional support, peer counseling, safe emergency housing, information, and other services while you are in the relationship, as well as if you decide to leave. Build as strong a support system as your partner will allow. Whenever possible, get involved with people and activities outside your home and encourage your children to do so. Be kind to yourself! Develop a positive way of looking at yourself and talking to yourself. Use affirmations to counter the negative comments you get from the abuser. Allow yourself time for doing things you enjoy. Help for abused and battered women: Protecting your privacy You may be afraid to leave or ask for help out of fear that your partner will retaliate if he finds out. This is a legitimate concern. However, there are precautions you can take to stay safe and keep your abuser from finding out what youre doing. When seeking help for domestic violence and abuse, its important to cover your tracks, especially when youre using the phone or the computer. Phone safety for abused and battered women When seeking help for domestic violence, call from a public pay phone or another phone outside the house if possible. You can call 911 for free on most public phones, so know where the closest one is in case of emergency. Avoid cordless telephones. If youre calling from your home, use a corded phone if you have one, rather than a cordless phone or cell phone. A corded phone is more private, and less easy to tap. Call collect or use a prepaid phone card. Remember that if you use your own home phone or telephone charge card, the phone numbers that you call will be listed on the monthly bill that is sent to your home. Even if youve already left by the time the bill arrives, your abuser may be able to track you down by the phone numbers youve called for help. Check your cell phone settings. There are cell phone technologies your abuser can use to listen in on your calls or track your location. Your abuser can use your cell phone as a tracking device if it has GPS, is in silent mode, or is set to auto answer. So consider turning it off when not in use or leaving it behind when fleeing your abuser. Get your own cell phone. Consider purchasing a prepaid cell phone or another cell phone that your abuser doesnt know about. Some domestic violence shelters offer free cell phones to battered women. Call your local hotline to find out more. Computer and Internet safety for abused and battered women Abusers often monitor their partners activities, including their computer use. While there are ways to delete your Internet history, this can be a red flag to your partner that youre trying to hide something, so be very careful. Furthermore, it is almost impossible to clear a computer of all evidence of the websites that you have visited, unless you know a lot about computers. Use a safe computer. If you seek help online, you are safest if you use a computer outside of your home. You can use a computer at work, a friends house, the library, your local community center, or a domestic violence shelter or agency. Be cautious with email and instant messaging. Email and instant messaging are not the safest way to get help for domestic violence. Be especially careful when sending email, as your abuser may know how to access your account. You may want to consider creating a new email account that your abuser doesnt know about. Change your user names and passwords. Create new usernames and passwords for your email, online banking, and other sensitive accounts. Even if you dont think your abuser has your passwords, he may have guessed or used a spyware or keylogging program to get them. Choose passwords that your abuser cant guess (avoid birthdays, nicknames, and other personal information).

Signs that your abuser is NOT changing: He minimizes the abuse or denies how serious it really was. He continues to blame others for his behavior. He claims that youre the one who is abusive. He pressures you to go to couples counseling. He tells you that you owe him another chance. You have to push him to stay in treatment. He says that he cant change unless you stay with him and support him. He tries to get sympathy from you, your children, or your family and friends. He expects something from you in exchange for getting help. He pressures you to make decisions about the relationship. Help for abused and battered women: Safety planning Whether or not youre ready to leave your abuser, there are things you can do to protect yourself. These safety tips can make the difference between being severely injured or killed and escaping with your life. Prepare for emergencies Know your abusers red flags. Be on alert for signs and clues that your abuser is getting upset and may explode in anger or violence. Come up with several believable reasons you can use to leave the house (both during the day and at night) if you sense trouble brewing. Identify safe areas of the house. Know where to go if your abuser attacks or an argument starts.

Continued Next Week

How to Control Shine A face full of oil and shine is never a good thing, especially when it shows up in pictures. During the summer months, our complexions tend to be a little greasier than usual and so its important to know how to keep shine at bay and also how to get rid of it once it forms. Controlling Shine If you have oily/combination skin, its a good idea to stick to lighter/ airier foundations such as mousses and mineral powders. Apply only where needed and stick to light moisturizers as well. In the summer, keep your makeup to a minimum, especially if its very humid out as the more makeup you put

on, the more oil will accumulate on your skin. Getting Rid of Shine If by the end of the night your face feels a little oily, there are a few things you can do to keep the shine at bay. Keep blotting papers in your bag and use them throughout the night. Personally, I love Clean and Clears Oil Absorbing Sheets as they feel very silky to the touch and also absorb sweat as well. If you find that the blotting sheets are too expensive, another really good alternative is to use toilet seat covers. I know it sounds kinda gross, but the paper is actually very absorbent and absolutely perfect for blotting oil

Skin Care

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Friday December 21, 2012

43

13629 - 108 Avenue, Surrey BC V3T 2K4 778- 395-0903 Now Accepting Membership Applications For Details Phone Kash Dosangh 604.430.1358 or Surendra Prasad 604.572.8817

Fiji Canada Association

Fiji-Sun Times Canada


604.909.4088

To Get The Best Value For Your Dollar Advertise In

19 years of age or older, a descendant of a Citizen of Fiji F-C-A-S-B Gathering Schedule

Subhas Chandra 604.433.4298 N. Tezram 604.540.7009

Dec. 9th & Dec. 23rd 1pm- 6pm

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Places of Worship
Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 10am to 3pm 10am to 1pm, 5pm to 8pm 10am to 1pm, 5pm to 9pm 1pm to 7pm 10am to 1pm, 5pm to 8pm 10am to 1pm, 5pm to 9pm 10am to 1pm

Friday December 21, 2012

SUBRAMANIYA SWAMY TEMPLE OF BC


8840 No. 5 Road, Richmond, BC 604.274.7906
TEMPLE HOURS

SANATAN DHARM CULTURAL SOCIETY


SHIV MANDIR 5600 DORSET STREET, BURNABY BC PH: 604 -254 -2624
HOURS OF OPER ATION Monday 5:30pm9:00pm Tuesday 7:00pm9:00pm Sunday 10:00am12 noon
Then India Sanmarga Ikya Sangam Educational and Cultural Society, BC, Canada (EST. 1982 Incorporated S176969)

For Pooja Booking Contact: Aiyaar Shivachariyar Sada Shiva

604.274.7906

COLEBROOK UNITED CHURCH


5441 - 125A St, Surrey B.c.
Affiliated with Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada

GOOD NEWS ASSEMBLY FOR JESUS


SERvIcE TImE

SRI VENKATESHWARA MAHA VISHNU TEMPLE


Temple hours Monday to Sunday Daily Aarthi Ramayan Katha

9326 - 116th Street, Delta, BC


Morning 8:00am10:00am Evening 6:00pm8:00pm 7:00pm Friday 6:00pm10:00pm pooja/special prayer sessions/Temple/hall PT. Shiu Madri 604.582.4899 PUJARI Soma Sundaran 604.363.7180 maathar sangam Activities & Volunteers Shakuntala Naidu 604.576.4529
Treasurer: Muniappa Naidu 604.576.4529

1pm Sundays
(Hindi & English)

James Kumar 604-581-3191 (res) 604-599-9518 (work) cecil Labon 604-572-4854

president: H.C. Gopal 604.290.1114

secretary: Ganesh Murti 604.315.3166

Hindi Punjabi Fraserview GosPel CHaPel


sunday service 10:30 am12:00 noon 6:30PM - 7:30PM Service in Hindustani & Punjabi Sunday School for Children

14630-107a avenue surrey bC v3r 1v1 Serving the community since 1972

If youre looking for a place to belong or have been searching for answers to lifes questions or healing, come to our services or contact us. Allow us to introduce you to Jesus Christ and help you come into a full relationship with him.

abhishek pentecostal assembly


Sunday School/Worship Service: 1pm 11601-82nd Ave, Delta BC (604) 590-8836 samuel_k@telus.net www.abhiskhekassembly.com Services are in Hindi and English Senior Pastor Rev. Samuel Krishna

Pastor Santosh Raj 604-582-2650 chital06@hotmail.com

ASIAN cHRIST cHURcH OF cANADA


Rev. Emmanuel Cheema 778-241-9066 asianchristchurch@yahoo.ca
Sunday Service @ 5.30 p.m. (Hindi, Urdu, Punjabi & English)
We pray for sickness, demon possessed & family problems. We have testimonies, come and see Gods great work.
You are the light of the world, a city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. (Matthew 5: 11)

15964 88th Ave. Surrey, B.C. V4N IH5

FIJI SENIORS SOcIETY OF cANADA


Social Gatherings at 1pm - Last Sunday of each month at SHRI vENKATESHWARA mAHA vISHNU TEmPLE 9326 - 116th Street, Delta, Bc
Bhan mati Raj 604-581-9859 chand Lakhan 604-5880361 Bhan Pratap 604-839-5106 James Kumar 604-599-9518 Satya Nand 604-590-5303 Thakur Kuar Singh 604-587-5439

HINDI CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP


#4-6468 King George Blvd, Surrey BC

Sunday Service @ 2:00PM


Uplifting Worship | Prayer for healing | music (cD) Available

Shailendra (Shal) Singh 604-596-7353 or 604-323-6506 | hindichristianfellowship@yahoo.ca

GLOBAL FIJIAN ASSEMBLIES


Pastor Isimeli Lesi Korobasaga
Affiliated with Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada

Every Sunday 25Pm @ Peoples Full Gospel

14455 - 104th Ave., Surrey, Bc Phone: 604.592.9001 Cell: 778.938.2734 Email: lesi1968@yahoo.ca

REFRESHMENTS PROVIDED Come and experience a time of Prayer and Bible based answers to lifes difficult questions.

We will meet on the first Monday each month - 6-8 pm

NAYA JEEWAN cHURcH


38868 - 128th Street, Surrey Bc

Please contact Murti at 604.599.4552

Service Sundays 2:00pm Bible Study (Hindi & English) Wednesdays 7:30pm
Prayer, counselling & visitations Available

HOSANNA TABERNACLE
6075 Inverness Street, Vancouver Sunday Services in Hindi/English 2:00pm Pastor Silas Naidu 604 352 1232 silas.naidu@gmail.com
467 E 11th Avenue, Vancouver BC V5T 2C8 Phone: 604-874-0175 shreemahalakshmi@gmail.com www.shreemahalakshmitemple.ca

Affiliated with Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada

Pastor Eileen Reddy 604.543-8339

F I JIAN METHODIST UNI T E D C H U R C H

ARYA SAMAJ SOCIETY OF BRITISH COLUMBIA


(Registered under the Society Act Of BC. Registered Charity # 891336349)

Ph: 604.593.5663 Pastor Sakaraia & Rev. Ema Karoi

12371 96 Avenue Surrey BC Sunday Service @ 6:00PM

Shree Mahalakshmi Temple

Join for Hawan, Pravachan and Satsangh followed by Preetibhoj Every Sunday 10:00 a.m.12:00 noon Yoga, Pranayam & Meditation classes every Wednesday 7:00 p.m - 8:30 p.m. Contact Shobha Rae 604.874.9856 Hindi Classes Sunday 12:30 p.m. -1:30 p.m. Contact Madhu Varsney 604.222.1444 Hall rental also availabale. Contact Kushwakant Singh 604.328.5454
Madhu Varsney, President 604.222.1444, Jack Sundar, Secretary 604.541.9359 Kushwaha Kant Singh, Treasurer 604.328.5454

Arya Samaj Centre, 6884 Jubilee Ave., Burnaby, B.C.

Date 16 Sunday 23 Sunday 27 Thursday 29 Saturday

Programs in December 2012


Time 9:30 am 6:00 pm 7:00 pm 6:00pm

Program Shree Lakshmi Vinayaka Japa Gita Jayanti, Vaikunth Ekadashi Shree Mahalashmi Japa Hanuman Japa

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Friday December 21, 2012

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TImes

Gary Bettman managed to keep his job despite presiding over two labor disputes in the past, and NHL fans are now wondering if he can survive a third lockout. Many are hoping that the answer is no, and they are completely justified in that opinion. There are several causes of this lengthy lockout, but one of the main factors is a failure of leadership on Bettmans part. As commissioner, Bettman answers to the owners, and while the majority of his duties deal with protecting their interests, he also has the reputation of the NHL to protect; part of doing this job is getting the owners to realize the areas in which they must compromise. Currently, Bettman is blaming the stalled negotiations on a greedy NHL Players Association that is refusing to budge on issues such as player contracts, as Pro Hockey Talks Ryan Dadoun notes. The league continues to hammer on contract lengths and the players cut of hockey-related revenue as key points, and their proposals are greedy, unfair and shortsighted. Bettman has conclusively failed to get the owners to look rationally and honestly at hockeys place in the North American sports landscape and base their decisions on the fact that it will never compete nationally with football, basketball and baseball. However, it does have a significant amount of diehard fans in certain areas of the country. For example, the Phoenix metropolitan area has roughly four million people, and the Coyotes had to file for bankruptcy in 2009. However, the Winnipeg Jets increased in value by 22 percent after moving from Atlanta just a year ago. The Winnipeg metropolitan area has a population of just over 730,000, but clearly, there are significantly more hockey fans there than there are in

NHL Lockout: End to Gary Bettman Era Would Be Silver Lining in Labor Dispute

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Fiji Slips Two Places In FIFA Ranking

Phoenix. There are certain teams in areas that will make money, and there others that are doomed to struggle due to their geographic location. While contraction may seem like the logical solution to this problem, revenue sharing is a much better option. As TIME Magazines Gary Belsky notes, the NFL shares 60 percent of its revenue, NBA teams divide up 50 percent of their revenue and Major League Baseballs mark is just under 33 percent. NHL owners, however, share 4.5 percent of the leagues revenue, and they have not held serious discussions about a drastic raise to this figure. To demonize the NHLPA for refusing to accept another cut to their share of revenue while flat-out refusing to share amongst each other is hypocritical and immature on the owners part. Bettman needs to stand up to his bosses and get them to see the big picture; the low level of revenue sharing is a significant structural flaw that the NHL is not addressing, even though every other major American sports league has done so. The fact that he has failed to make this case during his 20-year tenure proves that he is either unwilling or unable to make the necessary innovations and improvements to the NHL. There is no bigger sign of this than the current lockout. While it is possible that Bettman will visit the Wizard of Oz and receive brains, heart and courage, then go back to the NHL and make his case, this is a scenario that will remain a fantasy. The only silver lining that can possibly come from this lockout is that the growing frustration from the fans brings about the end of Bettmans tenure, and that his replacement will be able to make the necessary changes to ensure that the season is played out in full every year.

Fiji has slipped two places in the latest FIFA World Ranking and is now placed 169th and remains sixth in the Oceania region. The Juan Carlos Buzzetti coached side was placed 167th in the last ranking. New Zealand maintains the number one spot in the OFC region while New Caledonia is second and Tahiti third. Solomon Islands maintain its fourth spot while Vanuatu has jumped to fifth spot from seventh. Samoa drops to seventh place from

fifth followed by Guam which is 8th, Tonga is placed 9th, American Samoa is 11th and Cook Islands is placed 12th. World champs Spain finishes the year on top spot while Germany and Argentina remain in the top three. Italy is ranked fourth while Columbia has made a huge climb and is ranked fifth above England, Portugal and Netherlands. 2014 World Cup host Brazil has failed to impress and has dropped to the 18th spot from 13th.

Fiji Wins First AFL Title


Fiji Tribe made a strong comeback in the grand final of the Australia Football League (AFL) Oceania Youth Cup to beat Nauru 47- 22 at Albert Park. AFL Fiji chairman Inoke Leweni said it was a blessing in disguise as Cyclone Evans motivated the boys to do their best for the sake of those affected by the destruction it left behind. A stronger Nauru side had earlier beat Fiji 33- 24 in the pool games however this did not deter the hosts from heading a step up in the final. Coach Alipate Savai said this is the first ever time for Fiji to feature in the AFL grand final and winning it is a great achievement for the side. Savai credited the win to the boys for the great effort in beating a stronger Nauru side and said it was the hard work and the efforts of every individual player that led to the victory. I thank the players parents for bearing with us from Day One of the competition, he said. These players had to purchase their own uniforms and merchandise when playing in this Oceania tournament. It wasnt easy as we had to struggle at training prior to the competition and all these efforts have finally paid off. Fiji won all its matches against Tonga, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu in the pool matches before beating Nauru in the final. Savai said that this is one of the greatest achievements for the side considering the slow growth of AFL in the country. He added they hope to do their best in the coming years and that the young players have been showing great potentials in their quest to achieve the best in the sport.

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TImes

Dana White On Tuf 17 Season: Entire House Was 'Terrified' Of One Fighter
The 17th main season of The Ultimate Fighter is already dead set on drawing a lot of eyeballs with coaches Jon Jones and Chael Sonnen, but Dana White hints at another star on the rise. During a media lunch attended by the UFC president and Ronda Rousey, White hinted at an interesting competitor that was so violent, he had the rest of the TUF 17 house paralyzed in fear (via MMA Mania): "We have a guy on this season of The Ultimate Fighter, every fight he's in, someone goes to the hospital. The whole house is terrified of this guy. Everybody. I picked this fight, and this guy is lined up with the guy I'm telling you about, and the guy has a nervous breakdown in the house over the weekend. Freaks out and has a nervous breakdown. This guy scared the living hell out of everyone. It's awesome." This seems to corroborate with a quote from MMA Fighting's Dave Doyle, who relayed that White mentioned one fighter on TUF 17 "who put all four of his opponents into the hospital" during the season. If this mystery fighter made it through four men during the season, that seems to hint that he's a finalist who will be heading to the Ultimate Fighter 17 finale showdown. Typically, fighters on a normal season of TUF have to compete in three fights to get a shot at the show's sixfigure contract prize and free Harley Davidson motorcycle. That includes at least one qualifying fight to get into the house, a quarterfinal fight and an additional semifinal bout. But if this fighter sent four men to the hospital, that either hints at an extra round or an unaired qualifying match. It wouldn't involve a physical altercation outside of a cage, as the TUF rules explicitly state that fighters will be

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Friday December 21, 2012

banned from the season if they attack each other outside competition

unless this fighter broke the rules late into the show.

Fiji Football Association will now Nadroga at 3pm at Govind Park while officially kick off the 2013 National Tavua plays Rewa at 1pm on the same Football League on January 12 at day. Subrail Park with Labasa playing Nadi In the Youth division, Ba U21 will take in the opening match. on Nadroga U21 at 11am. The match commences at 1.30pm Matches will continue on Sunday and at the same venue at 3pm, IDC with Savusavu facing Nadi at 1.30pm champion Suva will face off against at Subrail Park and Labasa will play Savusavu. Suva. Following the postponement of Round The Men In Black will travel to 1 matches due to Cyclone Evan, the Churchill Park to meet Lautoka at competition will commence with 3pm in its second encounter of the Round 2 fixtures. week while prior to that Lautoka U21 This was confirmed to the media by will host Ba U21 at 1pm on the same National League Board secretary day. Amitesh Pal. The opening round which was Defending champion Get The Best Valuescheduled DollarDecember 15-16 will To Ba will begin For Your for their campaign at home hosting now be played on of March 2-3.

Fiji FA Sets New Date For NFL Opener

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