Sie sind auf Seite 1von 35

TImes

FridayDec 5, 2014

www.fijitimescanada.com

w
e
N

THE FIJI

Vol. 9
Issue:
465

Tel: 604-909-4088
SINCE 2006

1
www.fijitimescanada.com

Email: info@fijitimescanada.com

CANADA

December 5, 2014

Fiji International Set For October 2015

The PGA of Australia together with


the Fijian Government announced
the second Fiji International golf
tournament will be held from October
15 18, 2015.
In making the announcement alongside
the Fijian Attorney General and Minister
for Finance, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and
the Minister for Industry, Trade and
Tourism Faiyaz Koya, Brian Thorburn
CEO of the PGA of Australia said the
October date provides significantly
increased benefits for all stakeholders.
"October is a more suitable month in
terms of world golf schedules, as all
Majors are complete and many Tours
are slowing down or just getting started
for new season. It is also early in the
PGA Tour of Australasia summer of
golf, and broadcasting Fiji is a fantastic
way to start the televised events," said

Thorburn.
"In addition, the 2015 Fiji
International will be held the week
after The Presidents Cup in Korea,
where 24 of the world's top ranked
players will be competing, and we will
endeavour to have one or two of them
playing in Fiji."
The later date will also allow for
a larger field size due to extended
daylight hours, with the PGA Tour
of Australasia already liaising with
OneAsia Tour to extend the field.
"An increase in daylight means we
have the opportunity to explore a larger
field size which could see wide ranging
benefits across a number of areas."
added Thorburn.
On the back of a successful inaugural
Fiji International tournament in August
this year, the PGA of Australia and

tournament promoters Sports and


Entertainment Ltd (SEL) are now set
to capitalise on the interest generated
by the inaugural event to maximise
promotion
opportunities
both
domestically and internationally.
"The world now knows that Fiji is
a genuine golfing destination. Golf
tourism has the proven ability to attract
a broad range of markets from golfing
holiday, conferences, events and
incentive groups," said Basil Scaffidi,
Managing Director of SEL.
"The benefits are not limited to the
tournament week only, it extends
year round. The Fiji International is
the platform used to generate mass
exposure for Fiji to leverage a slice of
the estimated US$2billion worldwide
golf tourism industry," added Scaffidi.
With 11 months until the event, the

advertise

bcautodealers.ca
www.bcautodealers.ca

PGA and SEL will be working closely


with Tourism Fiji to showcase Fiji as
the newest player on the world golfing
stage.
The inaugural Fiji International
received extensive interest worldwide,
with players, guests and officials all
singing Fiji's praises as a host nation.
Already in Australia there has been
significant interest to increase the
volunteer program which saw a sell
out of 20 volunteers from Australia and
New Zealand attend.
October dates will allow more positions
to become available for volunteers and
is one of many strategies in place to
increase visitation and the foot print of
Fiji as a golfing destination.
Further information will be available
in the coming months on the Fiji
International website.

FridayDec 5, 2014

www.fijitimescanada.com

Service With Honesty & Integrity


2

thiNkiNg of
seNdiNg bags or
boxes to fiji!!

Cut oFF:
BC : december 26th 2014
alta. & toronto: december 19th
Eta: January 28th 2015

oFFEr oFFEr oFFEr

- We are here just


to do that for you
- No Weight
restrictioN 1kg - 1000kg +
- We provide service
With coNfideNce
- No gimmicks

30% 30% 30%

Drop off your boxes at our


office & get 30% discount
+
Enter To Win Trip for 2 To
LAS VEGAS
(Valid Only When You Drop Off)

- oN time shippiNg

(conditions Apply)

Calgary

(403) 250 6851 (ami)

Calgary

(403) 4740443 (Nages)

EdmoNtoN (780) 292 0701 (Prakash)


vaNCouvEr (778) 995 7418 (Kanta)

Kamlesh Ram
OWNER / PRESIDENT

www.fijifreight.ca

toroNto

(647) 999-6794 (rahmat)

OffIcE:

8032 - 156th St., Surrey BC

PhONE:

(604) 724 5941

info@fijifreight.ca

Fiji News

www.fijitimescanada.com

Friday Dec 5 , 2014

Iss Year 9 Students Donate $6.5K Cheque To Kids


Cancer Ward
Children living with cancer at the
CWM Hospital Oncology Ward
will soon enjoy a newly renovated
Procedure Room after a $6,500 cheque
was handed to the hospital from the
Year 9 Global Perspectives class of
International School Suva.
School
Representative
Michael
Masonis said the students held a
number of fundraising activities and
approached a number of sponsors to
raise funds for the Oncology Ward.
Masonis said it was all the hard work
of the students with the guidance of the

teachers that enabled the students to


raise the $6,500.
CWM Hospital Head of Pediatrics
Dr. Joseph Kado said the funds will
go toward renovating the Procedure
Room or Common Room at the ward.
Kado said the Common Room has
five self-contained rooms with two
beds that currently accommodate ten
children per session.
The fundraising activities the students
organized included a marathon run
where one of their teachers Luke Fuller
ran from Nadi to Suva within four days.

Grape Farming

HE was not born when his father


planted grapes more than eight years
ago.
But as Joseph Sovea grew up, he got a
taste of the fruit his father planted.
The eight-year-old did not hesitate to
pose for a photograph with a big bunch
of grapes.
His father Alfred Sovea said he planted
some grape seeds when Joseph was not
born.
"I have my own vineyard and we
have been harvesting grapes for the
past eight years," said Mr Sovea of
Korotogo Back Rd in Sigatoka.
"The grapes turn purple when they are

ripe but they taste sour. It's probably


good to make wine."
Mr Sovea also has some small grape
plants in pots and he has also planted
strawberry.
"The plants are in the normal soil and
I don't use any fertiliser or anything.
They just grow like that and the only
thing is the care.
"I want to have at least 500 grape
plants and more of strawberries, which
are quite small now.
"If I am able to get some land up in
Nadarivatu, which is a cold place, then
I know that I can do large-scale grape
and strawberry farming."

67K Tonnes Of Sugar


Ready For Export

Over 67,000 tonnes of sugar is expected


to be shipped out of Malau Port at
Labasa now that the 2014 crushing
season is over.
Fiji Sugar Corporation executive
chairman, Abdul Khan, said FSC
expected six ships for this seasons total
sugar to be shipped from all the mills.
So far, three shipments have been
sent and we expect three ships for this
years sugar, he said.
Mr Khan highlighted the FSC expected
a better crop yield for the coming
season.
Through our present strategy of
continuous improvement, we always
aim for a better performance year-onyear for the performance of the mill,
he said.
New variety
Meanwhile, with the new sugarcane
variety now being planted by farmers
in the North, Mr Khan said they did not
expect the exciting variety to stop.
Mr Khan said for the new variety, all
planting normally done during the
various planting windows and subject
to weather and climatic conditions.
There will be a number of different
variety sugarcane that will be processed
at all our mills, he said.
The advantage of the new variety is

that it is more resistant to some of the


extremes of climatic conditions.
More budget
Sugarcane farmers across the country
will directly benefit from an increase in
the 2015 National Budget allocated to the
South Pacific Fertilisers Limited (SPFL).
SPFL general manager Ashween Ram
said the $9.7 million allocated to the
fertiliser body would ensure the sale
of a bag of fertiliser would remain at
$31.50 to all sugarcane farmers.
The increase in budget means that we
will be able to sell 600, 000 bags of
50 kilograms of fertilisers to our cane
farmers or 30, 000 tonnes, he said.
Previously, we used to sell 354, 000
bags of fertilisers to farmers however,
we were not able to get any surplus
from sales and government subsidy.
Mr Ram said the announcement of
non-cane fertilisers for 2015, would
also mean a slight increase in fertiliser
supply to agriculture farmers.
We have been supplying fertilisers to
non cane farmers as well and we feel
that there is potential in this area of the
agricultural sector which we plan to
further explore, he said.
Non-cane farmers will next year
benefit from another $1 million worth
of fertilisers for their crops.

$740K For 95 Homes In Labasa

THE Lands Department in Labasa will


attempt to regularise 95 houses in four
squatter settlements within Labasa
from next year costing $740,000.
This was revealed by the department's
divisional
manager
Joseva
Vuniamatana during the Northern
Development Plan meeting.
Mr Vuniamatana said so far there were
118 houses in Valebasoga, 18 houses
in Boubale, 14 houses in Bouma, 109
houses in Bangladesh and 34 houses in
the Namara area which had been officially
recognised as squatter settlements.
He said Government, under its manifesto,
intended to regularise the land leases of
all squatter settlements in the country.
"This cannot be done overnight but

we will begin with these 95 houses


beginning from next year," he said.
"The department also managed to issue
a total of 22 gravel extraction licenses
this year.
"We expect applications of these
licences to increase next year."
Mr Vuniamatana said the majority of
licenses applied for this year were from
contractors for road projects.
"We intend to begin consultation
works for more industrial space at the
Vakamamasisuasua Subdivision next
year," he said.
"The tender for this project has been
awarded to NRW Macallan Fiji Limited
and we also have plans of creating extra
residential lots in Boubale for next year."

Fiji News

FridayDec 5, 2014

Australia Warns Against


Seasonal Work
Visa Scam
4

The Australian High Commission has


warned against visa scams relating
to work visa permits for the Seasonal
Worker Program and Work and Holiday
Visa Program between Australia and Fiji.
The commission says while an
invitation has been put to Fiji, neither
of Seasonal Work Program nor the
Work and Holiday Visa Program has
been implemented.
Accordingly, the commission has
distanced itself migration, recruitment
and travel agents who are producing

www.fijitimescanada.com

Tourism Fiji Global


Marketing Head Resigns

fraudulent letters or permits intended


to look like they have been produced
by them.
"No such visas are yet in place for
Fijian citizens for these programs," the
commission said in a statement.
An announcement it further says will be
made when the programs are finalised.
"We strongly recommend that potential 4
applicants for visas obtain information
and
assistance
regarding
visa
applications from our Australian Visa 4
Application Centre service provider
TT Services.
"All Fijians should refer to the
official website of the Australian
High
Commission,
Suva
for
Ken Freer
information relating to visas or
future work opportunities (www.fiji. Tourism Fiji has accepted the The Tourism Fiji board is now finalising
resignation of its head of global details of the new Acting CEO and
highcommission.gov.au)."
Acting Director Global Marketing in
The public is urged to report any such marketing Ken Freer.
light of this latest resignation.
dealings to the Fiji Police Force, the He joined Tourism Fiji last year.
Fiji Commerce Commission or the Tourism Fiji chairman Stefan Pichler The Board is currently finalising details
Australian High Commission in Suva. thanked Freer for his contribution of the new Acting CEO and Acting
Director Global Marketing in light of
Meanwhile, the only confirmed during his short stint.
seasonal program for Fijians to date Wed like to thank Ken for his Kens resignation, details of which will
is with the New Zealand Government contribution to Tourism Fiji as Global be shared in the ensuing days. Despite
where the first batch of 30 workers are Marketing Director, and for stepping these internal changes, the various
expected to go over February next year into the Acting CEO role for Tourism marketing initiatives across Tourism
Fiji for a number of months. We wish Fijis global offices will of course carry
to take up employment.
on as normal. The Board is confident
An MOU will be signed on December him well for the future, says Pichler.
11 between New Zealand and Fiji to Freer has indicated he plans to pursue to be able to announce a new CEO for
other career aspirations.
Tourism Fiji very soon, said Pichler.
underline the arrangement.

WE OFFER DENTAL SERVICES

IN VANCOUVER, SURREY & BURNABY

FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Serving PROUDLY with Clinical Experiences


NEW PATIENTS, WALK-IN, EMERGENCY ACCEPTED

For special offers visit our website

6145 Fraser St.


Vancouver BC
V5W 2Z9 (Fraser & 45th)

Dr. Kashyap P. Vora


FDS RCS (England)
UBC Instructor

Dr. Shivani Vora

MDS. BDS
Certified Invisalign Provider

www.voradental.ca

604.321.1869

NOW

N
CATIO
2nd LO ABY
N
IN BUR

Laser Whitening
Dental Implants
I.V. Sedation

ALL INSURANCE PLANS ACCEPTED

EVENING & SATURDAY


APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE
SERVING WITH WIDE RANGE
OF CLINICAL EXPERIENCES
BRACES (ORTHODONTICS
STRAIGHTENING)

WE OFFER NO INTEREST PAYMENT PLAN

4330 Hastings St. Burnaby BC V5C 2J9


604.320.7321 / fax 604.320.7380

www.burnabydental.ca

Unit No.104
13401-108th Ave.
Surrey BC
V3T 5T3
(Passport Office Bldg.)
Skytrain Access

Dr. Shishir P. Vora

DDS, BDS

www.surreydental.ca

604.930.0755

Oral & Gum Surgery


CLEAR (invisible) Braces
Cosmetic Dentistry

Fiji News

www.fijitimescanada.com

Hon Biman Prasad Apologises


To Speaker Of The House

Biman Prasad
A motion was filed by government apologised to me for making his
for the Chair of the Public Accounts comments in the media about the
Committee Dr Biman Prasad to seek office of the speaker in the business
an apology from the Speaker of the committee. I have accepted his apology
Parliament.
and thank him for it, said Speaker of
Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed Parliament, Dr Jiko Luveni.
Khaiyum filed the motion based on However the motion was withdrawn
Dr Prasads statements in the media after Dr Prasad apologised to the
questioning the impartiality of the speaker directly.
Speaker of the House.
Members of the House, let me remind
I wish to thank the government, the you the confidence and impartiality
Attorney General in withdrawing of the speaker is an indispensable
this motion since Hon. Prasad has condition of the procedures.

Friday Dec 5 , 2014

No Visa Arrangement
Yet

No visa arrangement has yet been


put in place for the Seasonal Worker
Programme and Work and Holiday
Visa Programme with Australia.
The Australian High Commission in
Suva has advised that while Australia
has invited Fiji to join the Seasonal
Worker Programme and the Work
and Holiday Visa programme, neither
of these arrangements has yet been
implemented.
This is after the High Commission
received complaints of visa scams
relating to fake work visas for the
Seasonal Worker Programme and Work
and Holiday Visa Programme between
Australia and Fiji.
Amelia Morris, a complainant, said
she had paid $1000 to a couple who
have been going around Suva posing
as travel agents.
The couple is usually around Suva
claiming they are travel agents and they
usually demand our bank statements.
I gave them $1000 in February this
year and they told me that $250 was
for consultation and the other $250 for
the cost of sponsorship. The other $500
was given by a friend to me to pay on
her behalf, Mrs Morris said.

They said they were going to help


us get a visa for seasonal work in
Australia.
I have taken the matter to court
and they have ordered the couple to
repay the amount within 21 days. Im
pleading with the public to be careful
of persons claiming to be travel
agents but to seek assistance from the
Australia High Commission,she said.
A statement by the Australian
High Commission stated that some
migration, recruitment and travel
agents are producing fraudulent letters
or permits intended to look like they
have been produced by the Australian
High Commission.
An announcement will be made as soon
as these programmes are finalised.
They strongly recommend that
potential applicants for visas obtain
information and assistance regarding
visa applications from their Australian
Visa Application Centre service
provider TT Services.
All Fijians should refer to the official
website of the Australian High
Commission, Suva for information
relating to visas or future work
opportunities.

Woman Lands On Car


After Vuda Crash

Free Eye Check Up


Hundreds of people were in queue
at the FMF Gymnasium to take
advantage of the free medical checkup
being conducted by a team of medical
volunteers from Korea.
They were performing free medical
care in dental, eye disorders, treatment
of skin disorders and the care of women
giving births.
Good News Medical Volunteer Yurn
Seo said the organisation was nonprofit and supported by the Ministry of
Foreign Affairs in Korea.
We provide actual support for

developing countries that are without


proper medical facilities, support
health education and training of native
medical professionals, Miss Sio said.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in
Korea is usually supporting us and we
have more than 5 branches around the
world.
Pritika Chand, 30, of Vatuwaqa said
the service provided by the team was
excellent.
I had problems with my eyes so I got
it checked and then I received a new
pair of glasses, Mrs Chand said.

Thirty two-year old Zameer Akhdar


was still in shock after seeing a woman
land on the front window of his car.
She was in a minibus that crashed near
Viseisei, Vuda, in Lautoka.
The minibus went out of control while
heading towards a bridge and tumbled twice.
A woman sitting on the front seat was
thrown from her seat onto an oncoming
car.
Mr Akhdar, who was driving the car,
said: I saw the van going off the road.
Then next thing I know was this lady
that landed on my front window. I
stopped and I was shocked. First thing
that came to my mind was my family
so I tried to take them all out of the
vehicle.
My family was okay except for my
granddad who was sitting at the front.
He had injured himself from the pieces

of glass so we had to take all of them to


the hospital, he said.
Mr Akhdar was travelling from Ba to
Port Denarau, in Nadi with his family.
I was on my way to Port Denarau to
return to work at Plantation Resort
with my family when we came across
this horrible accident. I am not able to
go back today since my family is at the
Lautoka Hospital.
This is something that I know that
will never slip my mind. Just thinking
back to what had happened, it was
just horrible. I came to a point where I
was just still but the people were very
helpful, he said.
Mr Akhdar said there were 11
passengers inside the van who were
later rushed to the Lautoka Hospital.
Police could not release details because
they were still investigating.

Fiji News

FridayDec 5, 2014

$1.2M Worth Of Equipment


To Assist
Disabled
6

Vodafone Fiji Foundation in Partnership


with Spinal Injury Association and
Physio Net has given mobility devices
and medical supplies worth of $1.2
million to the needy people of Fiji.
During the handover of equipment at the
Tamavua Rehabilitation Centre, Vodafone
Fiji Foundations Chief Executive Officer
Pradeep Lal said that through various

www.fijitimescanada.com

Price Of Potato
Increases

activities by Vodafone they have managed THE Fiji Commerce Commission has
to bring smiles to the faces of people of allowed some retailers and wholesalers
Fiji who are need of assistance especially to sell potatoes at an increased price
because of the shortage experienced
those who are disabled.
He said that this was possible through across the country.
the belief and passion that Vodafone Fiji FCC chief executive Bobby Maharaj
said the commission's pricing
Foundation has for the people of Fiji.
The Vodafone Fiji Foundation together methodology was based on the cost
with Spinal Injury Association and 6 plus mark-up approach.
Physio Net, have given equipment "Under this methodology, individual
such as wheelchairs, beds, clutches, importers buying prices together
and other medical supplies not only 6 with the local charges determine the
to hospitals but also to the institutions wholesale and retail prices for each
importer, wholesaler and retailer," Mr
around the country.
Meanwhile, as the world is observing the Maharaj said in a statement.
International Day for Disabled People "This is the reason why consumers will
with the theme Sustainable Development, notice variance in the prices of potatoes
a Promise by Technology, British in the market."
High Commissioner to Fiji Roderick Mr Maharaj said the current market price
Drummond said that he is very glad to ranged from $1.25 a kilogram to $1.85.
assist the country to ensure that people get "The current pricing methodology
the right training and support in their lives. ensures that no trader is required to sell
He said that the partnership with the below costs.
Vodafone has strengthened and this "However, where there are evidences
intercompany
transactions,
will allow them to continue their of
additional information is required from
assistance towards the country.

advertise

the traders by the commission before


a decision on the final prices is made.
"This is done to ensure that no
artificially inflated prices are passed on
to Fijian communities."
Wholesaler Hari Dayal and Sons Ltd
managing director Madhukar Dayal
said the increase was necessary
because they were spending more than
they were earning.
"There is short of potatoes in New
Zealand but we managed to get some
potatoes into Fiji through the hard
work of our suppliers by talking to the
farmers," said Mr Dayal.
"Before, we could get four containers
in every shipment but now when we
order for four, we only get two but at a
higher price."
Another wholesaler, Bala Naidu and
Sons Ltd, says he also applied for a
mark-up in price.
He said about 5000 bags of potatoes
were held in the company's warehouse
awaiting the commission's decision on
a price increase.

bcautodealers.ca
www.bcautodealers.ca

JAMES TRAVEL SERVICE


Specializers in fares to:
FIJI
AUSTRALIA
NEW ZEALAND
SOUTH PACIFIC ISLANDS

BC Reg.
#22736

Over 40 Years Of Experience In Travel Industry


Provides Professional, Hassel Free Service

Cruises
also
Available

604.599.9518

#202B - 8556 120th Street, Surrey BC


Find us on www.gobizz.ca

Email:jamestravel@shaw.ca
Web:jamestravelservice.com

Friday Dec 5 , 2014

www.fijitimescanada.com

Cheapest rate to call anywhere in the Pacific or around the world - Guaranteed!
Do you call Fiji, Samoa or Tonga?? Why not use us!!!

No
No
No
No

contract
monthly fee
Gimmicks
Expiry Date

get free 10 mins


worth of talk time to try us out....

FIJI

AUS

NZ

UK

$0.19
USD

$0.04
USD

$0.04
USD

$0.08
USD

TONGA

$0.55
USD

Premium Voice Quality


Speed Dial
Superior Customer Service 24/7
No Membership fee!!!

Toll Free: 1-855-679-3454


Email: cs@vititalk.com

SAMOA

PNG

$0.60
USD

$0.70
USD

FridayDec 5, 2014

Fiji News

www.fijitimescanada.com

Former Fiji Residents Charged In Australias Second


Largest
Drug
Bust
8

Six men charged over Australia's


second largest drug bust have been
refused bail.
The men, aged between 23 to 34,
were charged with drug importation
offences after police found 2.8 tonnes
of drugs worth $1.5 billion in a sea
cargo container last month.
The drugs included 1,917 kilograms of
MDMA or ecstasy and 849 kilograms
of methamphetamine, also known as
ice or speed.
The drugs arrived in Australia on
November 19 on a ship from Hamburg,
Germany, police said.
Police arrested the men allegedly trying
to access the container in a factory at

Smithfield in Sydney's west after a


long-running investigation by the Joint
Organised Crime Group.
Mehmet Ozgen, 23, and Joshua
Hamlin, 34, appeared briefly in Central
Local Court.
The other four, New Zealand-born
Jason Drollett, Sloomone Vukici,
also known as Richard Taikua, Rene 8
Arancibia and Akuila Bisasa faced
court via video link.
Police inquiries also show that Bisasa 8
had access to $800,000 after selling
his parents property on their behalf, was formally refused.
and was in the process of moving his Magistrate Les Mabbutt adjourned the
case until February 2015.
family to Fiji.
None of the men applied for bail which The court heard Ozgen will apply for

bail later this month


Lawyers for the other men indicated
they may also lodge a bail application
before February.

Fiji Determined To Settle Impasse With Solomon Airlines


The stand-off between Fiji Airways
and the Solomon Islands government
was also questioned in parliament.
Civil Aviation Minister Aiyaz SayedKhaiyum says there has been a
breakdown in the negotiations after the
Solomon Islands government breached
the Air Service Agreement.
Can the minister for Civil Aviation
please explain the status on the
negotiations by Fiji and Solomon
Islands government on the withdrawal
of Fiji Airways flights to Honiara?,
asked Opposition MP, Semesa
Karavaki.

Indian Scholarships
Increase From Next Year
Indias High Commissioner to Fiji,
Gitesh Sharma, said the number of
Indian scholarships was expected to
increase from next year.
Mr Sharma said Indias Prime Minister,
Narendra Modi, said this when visiting
Fiji two weeks ago.
We are waiting for the formal
notification. While this is a point of
detail the point is Fiji is a friendly
country and numbers are not so
important, he said.
So we really look forward to Fiji
nationals travelling to India for

opportunities and we will provide


as much opportunities that Fiji aside
requires, Mr Sharma said
It will take care of Fijis needs or so.
It will be increasing rather than staying
the same.
He also confirmed Indias institutions
were positive about the performance of
Fijian students studying in India.
But more important is when they come
back the sense we get is they contribute
to nation building here so ultimately if
we help Fiji students they should come
back and do service in Fiji.

Sayed-Khaiyum
maintained
that
government is keen on resuming the
Nadi to Honiara flights.
We have always been reaching out
to them and this year in November we
actually had a meeting. I chaired that
meeting; we had representatives from
Solomon Islands government with their
high commissioner, solicitor general
and director of civil aviation. We then
came to an agreement to get back to
what we had agreed. Then when they
came back next day, they said Honiara
has not agreed to this, so we went back
to the status quo, Sayed-Khaiyum said.

Labasa Town Gets New


Machines

THE Labasa Town Council received


a new shredder machine which will
speed up work of recycling green
waste.
Special administrator Vijay Chand said
compared with the past, workers would
no longer needed to cut green waste
into pieces because the machine would
shred it at a faster rate.
"It will also produce more as the
machine would be doing the manual
work our men used to do. So everyday,
we will be processing more green
waste, which will be sold as manure,"
Mr Chand said.

"We are blessed to have Japanese


volunteer Iori Yasuda with us.
"He has uplifted a few of our projects
as he works with JICA in bringing in
the machines."
Mr Chand said the trucks collecting
rubbish would dump the green waste at
the landfill in Namara where processing
of green waste would be done.
Mr Yasuda said a lot had happened
since he joined the council.
"I am glad to be of help to the
community in Labasa and work with
the council to bring good changes for
the town through JICA."

Over 78,000 People Set To Benefit From Social Welfare


Programs

More than 78,000 senior citizens,


persons and children living with
disabilities are expected to benefit from
the various social welfare programs
next year.
During her 2015 Budget Speech,
Minister for Women, Children and
Poverty Alleviation Rosy Sofia Akbar
said the government has allocated
$160 million for Poverty Alleviation

programs out of which $44.8 million


has been allocated to the Ministry
for Women, Children and Poverty
Alleviation.
She said they are seriously examining
all their policies and programs and
especially those that impact women,
children, senior citizens and people
with disabilities.
Akbar said the Government will

reform the Social Pension Scheme to


reduce the age eligibility from 70 to
68 years from July 2015 and increase
the allowance from $30 to $50 a
month.
She highlighted that 33,000 senior
citizens will benefit from this.
Akbar said the Child Protection
Allowance allocation of $2 million
provides for the care and support

of children of single mothers,


prisoners, those cared for by family
members and children in Residential
Homes.
She said this caters for children living
with disabilities and the funding
allows 2,243 children to benefit from
the program adding that they expect
the number to increase as awareness
spreads about the assistance.

Friday Dec 5 , 2014

www.fijitimescanada.com

Bula! When someone greets you Bula it is more than just Hello They are also wishing you life and good health

INDIA TOUR

14 Day (12 Night) November 15th Departure


Delhi, Jaipur, Agra, Jhansi, Orchha, Khajuraho, Varanasi
$3290 + $690 Fuel Surchage, India Airport Fee, India Visa
Total Fare & All applicable Taxes $3980 per Person
Single Supplement $1190 + $3980 = $4480

FIJI AIR & HOTEL PACKAGE


with Breakfast

Child 11yrs & Under 75% of the adult fare, Share room with 2 adults
Also available departure dates,
Jan 10th , Jan 31 , Mar 7 2015

The above dates are available with a price difference of $100

Airfare $1040 + Taxes &


Hotel Sleep Two With Breakfast
$80 FJD

In Canadian $$

(Based on Availability)

SPECIAL SEAT SALE TO


FIJI / AUSTRALIA / NEW ZEALAND
$1040 + Taxes
Some Conditions Apply

Bob Ibrahim
604.716.5697

2 Air + 7 Nights Eastern Carribean Cruise


+1 Night Fort Lauterdale
Ship: Regal Princess (2014 New Ship)
December 6, 2014
Balcony : $1298 + $488 Tax

BC Reg. # 58791

web:www.letstalktraveltour.com

1 Air + 7 Nights Bahamas Cruise


+3 Nights New York
Ship: NCL Breakaway
November 29, 2014
Inside : $1298 + $588 Tax

email:bobibrahim@letstalktraveltour.com

117 - 8434 120th St,Surrey BC


Ph: 604. 629.7555 604. 503.4555 F: 604. 503.4556
www.gobizz.ca Your Advertising Partner

Larry Prasad
778.707.4555

Savita
604.418.8327

10

Fiji News

www.fijitimescanada.com

Fiji Airways Named Best


Airline In Pacific

Fiji Airways has received the Global


Travelers GT Tested Awards as the
Best Airline in the South Pacific for
the second consecutive year.
The airline says the prestigious win is a
testament to its brand and product.
The airlines new fleet of premium
Airbus A330-200 aircraft flawlessly
connects the world to the islands of Fiji
and beyond.
"The Best Airline in the South Pacific
award highlights the commitment Fiji
Airways has to providing a warm and
welcoming environment on board
these flights," the company said in a
statement.
"It also coincides with the launch of
the airlines new brand campaign,
Welcome to Our Home, which
captures the unique Fijian experience

travelers have aboard Fiji Airways,


and by extension, in Fiji. That is a very
personal, human experience offering
the familiarity of home, where visitors
are treated as extended family, not
tourists."
The voting process for the 11th annual
GT Tested Awards took place over a
span of eight months.
Those that were chosen as top brands
in the travel industry will be announced
in the prominent December issue of
Global Traveler.
Global Traveler is a monthly magazine
written exclusively for frequent
business and luxury travelers.
Its GT Tested Awards have been
considered an industry standard for
over a decade, with well-versed readers
personally voting for the best in travel.

Mushroom Farming
MUSHROOM farming has begun at
the Legalega Research Station in Nadi
with about 200 kilograms harvested
each week since the end of October.
The five varieties include edible and
medicinal mushrooms, and are produced
using technology from the Juncao
Research Institute of Fujian Agriculture
and Forestry University in China.
Project team leader Lin Zhansen said
they had adopted a method of using
specially grown giant grass as a
substrate for the mushroom.
He said the giant grass usually took

82 days from planting to grow to


2.2 metres, with a hectare of these
producing 500 tonnes of fresh grass to
turn into 150 tonnes of fresh mushroom.
"The usual method uses sawdust but
this new method doesn't require the
cutting of so many trees and more
environment-friendly," he said.
A number of farmers have already
made site inspections to undergo
training on the concept, in addition to
the 39 officials trained at the institute
in China and a batch of 43 trained
recently.

Friday Dec 5 , 2014

Vinod Patel's $30 Million


Investment

Vinod Patel Company Limited has


become yet another local firm which
is investing millions into the economy.
Managing director, Umakant Patel
(Bachubhai), confirmed the companys
plans to invest close to $30 million on
various projects.
Mr Patel is looking at investment
close to $12 million in Omkar Road in
Narere where earthworks have already
begun.
We are making a big distribution
centre for all our branches and also for
wholesaling, he said.
In addition to this, Mr Patel said $15
million is being invested in Nadi which
he described as big construction.
He said the Nadi investment would
see a complex similar to Vinod Patel
Centrepoint branch in Suva.
Furthermore, the company is also
investing $3 million in Lautoka where
construction is already underway

and will be ready within six to seven


months.
This is located in the main City in
Lautoka. Before it was single storey
but we are putting a double storey with
escalator and elevator so people can
move around very easily, he said.
Mr Patel said they decided to undertake
such investments as their operations are
growing and they also have confidence
in the policies implemented by the
Government.
Government grant
In response to the 2015 Budget
announced the past week, Mr Patel
feels duty on building materials is all
good and therefore people can build.
Government is giving $10,000 grant
for first home builders and so this
means poor people can build, he said.
Mr Patel feels the outlook for the
building industry is good given the
incentives offered by Government.

The Fijian Prime Minister, Voreqe


Bainimarama, has had a meeting in
Jerusalem with the Israeli Foreign
Minister, Avigdor Lieberman, as he
continues his Middle East tour.
The two agreed to strengthen existing
bilateral ties in various areas and

discussed new areas of cooperation


between Israel and Fiji.
The meeting came after the Prime
Minister visited Fijian troops serving
with the United Nations Disengagement
Observer Force ( UNDOF) on the Golan
Heights separating Israel and Syria.

Prime Minister Holds Talks


With Israeli Foreign Minister

House Destroyed In Fire


A four bedroom house was completely
destroyed in a fire in Narere.
Police Spokesperson, Ana Naisoro said
the incident occurred at about 4.20 in
the morning at Mana Street in Narere.
Naisoro said the house has been vacant
for the last two months as the owner is
currently away in overseas.
Meanwhile, another house nearby
belonging to a 41-year-old laborer was
also partly burnt.

The cause of the fire is yet to be


determined.
Naisoro said there was also a fire at
Wasawasa Road, Wailoaloa in Nadi
destroying a three bedroom concrete
house.
Naisoro said the fire is believed to have
started from the meter box.
The house was vacant at the time of the
incident as the owner was also away in
overseas.

National Security Review Set For 2015

A COMPREHENSIVE review of the


Ministry of Defence, National Security
and Immigration sectors will be
conducted next year.
The review, Defence Deputy Permanent
Secretary Lieutenant Colonel Jonisio
Mara said would result in a detailed
report that would set out standard
policies for all security departments.
"The minister first alluded to this
comprehensive review in his maiden
speech during the first sitting of
Parliament and he mentioned that it
will be a review of all of our national
security and defence sectors," he

said.
"The core group held its first meeting
last week and those that were part of
the meeting were from the police,
military and immigration departments.
"The meeting went very well and there
was intent to convey the minister's
message and what he wanted to do on
this exercise, and also provide a report
on our action plans going into 2015."
Lt-Col Mara said the review approach
taken by the ministry would be a
collaborative one.
"This review is going to involve a
whole of Government approach and

it is going to have the whole security


sector involved, including our friends
from across the region."
He said so far, the defence and security
forces have been doing well.
"With our resources and with our
abilities, we have been doing quite

well but we have an opportunity to take


this further and that's what we want to
do in this review.
"It's
about
improvement
and
strengthening these departments and
how they can address certain issues
that may arise in the future."

Advertise/Search
The Fiji Times e-directory www.fijitimescanada.com
CANADA

Friday Dec 5 , 2014

www.fijitimescanada.com

11

Create Your Own Menu For Any Parties At A Reasonable Rate

In House DJ For
Karaoke NIGHTS

Family Parties
Birthdays,
Anniversaries
Engagements
Small Weddings

Pravin Kumar
604.306.8917

uffet

-B
e Out
k
a
T
at In

ro

F
y
a
d

ay

sd
dne

e
W
t
ffe

Bu

1A
1
m

ur
t
a
BOOK YOUR CHRISTMAS &
-S

NEW YEARS PARTY NOW

Seatings for
50-120

Traditional Fijian-Indian Cuisine

Fijis Exotic Restaurant & Banquet Hall


8653 120th Street, Delta BC
Contact Angie @ Ph: 778.593.0512
Cell: 778.378.6474

2015 Budget Will Widen Gap Between Rich And Poor:


Dr Prasad
Shadow Finance Minister Dr Biman
Prasad says the 2015 national budget
will increase the gap between the rich
and the poor.
As Halitesh Datt reports, apart from
raising some concerns, Dr Prasad also
made some suggestions for certain
economic sectors.
Shadow Finance minister and
opposition MP Hon Biman Prasad
expressed his concerns on the countrys
debt level and increase in overseas
borrowings.
Hon Prasad says the debt level has
increased by more than 39 percent over
the last 8 years.
This he says equates to more than 1.13
billion dollars.
Based on 2013 figures each person
had a debt burden of about $4440. A
child born today automatically inherits
that debt, said Shadow Minister for
Finance, Dr Biman Prasad.
Each household would have a debt
burden of more than 20 thousand
dollars.
Dr Prasad also questioning the 653
million dollar allocation to the Fiji
Roads Authority for next year.
I expect that in 2015, the 653 million
dollars allocated to the FRA will not be
spent. And if it is spent, it will be in a
hurry at the end of the year.
He also expressed his concerns on the

ailing sugar industry claiming sugar


production has declined by 50 percent
over the last few years.
He says the number of active farmers
have also declined from more than 16
thousand to 13 thousand.
An allocation of 9.7 million dollars
for an industry- less than the 12 million
dollars allocated for the Natadola Golf
Tournament is not going to remove the
binding constraints currently facing the
industry.
Dr Prasad says more incentives for
farmers should be reflected by the
government.
While they have received the share
of the sale of molasses, they havent
received that share of the electricity
co- generation undertaken by FSC. We
suggest that FSC immediately rectify
this and pay farmers arrears of the
shares that they havent been paid.
Fiji Airways. Dr Biman says cannot
alone bring in a million tourists to Fiji.
Currently three fleets of A330
amounts to 726 seats per day and then
3 737 aircrafts has 150 seats each. This
equates to 450 seats per day. The total
available seats per day are 1176. At 70
percent seat factor, we are looking at
only 823 seats per day.
Government, he says should have
more partnerships with other airlines
around the globe adding an overhaul of

Tourism Fiji is also long overdue.


We note that in 3 years we are in the
search of a 3rd CEO and the airline is
now been run by expatriates when many
local people are capable to do the job.
While welcoming the allocation for the
Education sector, Hon Prasad suggested
that government to undertake a cost
benefit analysis of major expenditures.
Hon. Prasad also questioning the

reduction of allocation for the


University of Fiji.
Governments free medicine scheme
also came under the spotlight.
Some of the other issues raised by the
Shadow Finance Minister were on cost
of living and ease and cost of doing
business in the country.
Finance Minister Aiyaz Sayed Khaiyum
will reply to these issues next week.

12

www.fijitimescanada.com

Fiji News

Friday Dec 5 , 2014

Indian National Sentenced To Passport Books Ready For


11 Years Allowed To Appeal
Issuance
Indian national Muskaan Balaggan,
who was sentenced to 11 years
imprisonment for attempting to export
521.6 grams of cocaine to Australia,
has been allowed to appeal against her
conviction and sentence.
Her non parole period is nine years.
Balaggan had filed an application to
leave to appeal against her conviction
and sentence on 29 grounds of appeal
against conviction and six grounds of
appeal against sentence.
She was jointly charged with US
national Elton Xhemali who is serving
10 year sentence with a nonparole
period of eight years for the same
offence.
The two were found guilty of one
count of attempt to export illicit drug
and possession of illicit drugs.
Indian national Muskaan Balaggan

Fiji Airways Anticipates


One Millionth Passenger
FIJI Airways will welcome its one
millionth international passenger later this
month a feat never achieved before in
the national airline's 63-year history.
According to the airline, the one
millionth passenger will board a flight
from Nadi on December 20 and also
surpassing the millionth mark for Fiji
Airways.
Managing director and CEO Stefan
Pichler said the airline was delighted
to hit the one millionth passenger mark

for the first time.


"It's a great reflection of the hard work
done by our team to increase passenger
numbers and revenue," he said in a
statement.
"And next year will be even better, as
we will offer nearly 1.4million seats on
Fiji Airways.
"So, at our current load factor of
around 85 per cent, we will be able
to accommodate around 1.3 million
guests on our flights to and from Fiji."

Child Helpline Access


THE Child Helpline service in Fiji
will provide a good access point for
all children in Fiji to seek counselling,
advice, referrals to services and to
report abuse against them.
A signing of a memorandum of
understanding between the Women,
Children and Poverty Alleviation
Ministry, the Medical Services Pacific
and communication network companies
would allow children to highlight their
issues with a simple phone call.
Minister for Women and Children
Rosy Akbar said Child Helpline
International was the global network of
191 Child Helplines in 145 countries,
which together received more than 14
million contacts a year from children
and young people in need of care and

protection.
"Membership of Child Helpline
International will mean international
recognition for Fiji's Child Helpline,
as well as expert level support and
resources and Fiji will now join the
global network," Ms Akbar said.
"The helpline will provide an access
point for all children in Fiji and this
will further bring to surface child abuse
and to break the silence on child harm
and neglect."
Medical Services Pacific director
Jennifer Poole said two trained senior
counsellors would be available to assist
children with advice and counselling
when they called the helpline.
She said they were happy to provide
such services to vulnerable children.

Advertise/Search
The Fiji Times e-directory www.fijitimescanada.com
CANADA

The Immigration Department will


be open tomorrow for issuance of
passports to those Fiji nationals who
have been issued passport books by
the department in the past three-four
days.
Director
Immigration,
Nemani
Vuniwaqa said due to the problem in
the software of their database they
could not issue these books.
He added that they are issuing books
normally as printers are now working
upto standard.

Vuniwaqa added that the immigration


officials worked overnight last night to
ensure books are ready for issuance.
He further said that books for Western
and Northern division will be sent via
last flight today.
He said the Immigration Department in
Suva, Lautoka, Nadi and outer stations
in Labasa and Savusavu will be open
from 9am to 1pm Saturday.
Meanwhile,
the
Immigration
Department has over 33,000 blank
books enough to last one year.

It appears the Fijian Government is unlikely


to consider any of the contributions from
the Opposition towards the 2015 Budget
at the completion of the first week of the
budget debate.
Minister for Finance and Acting Prime
Minister Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum had
labeled the oppositions contribution
as one that cant be taken seriously
before the Fijian Parliament.
Once again they have demonstrated
their failure to rise above the petty
politics to offer constructive advice,
Sayed-Khaiyum said.

Once again they have demonstrated


absolute reliance on deception, halftruths and deliberate misinformation.
He told the house that the budget presented
is bold, responsible and appropriate to
Fijis needs and resources.
It underpins the FijiFirst Governments
long-term plan for Fiji, which unlike
that presented by the opposite side of
the House is for a united and prosperous
future for all Fijians, from all backgrounds
and from all parts of the country.
The debate on the budget is expected to
continue next week.

Opposition Ideas Not


Taken Seriously: AG

Matrimonial

Boy
25 years old
Professional Chef
From Fiji Islands
Well settled Fijian family seeking a suitable
match for their son. He is 25 years old, 5 8 tall,
medium complexion. He is professionally
employed as a chef in Fiji.
Looking for a Indo Fijian girl in Canada between
the age of 20 - 25 years old.
Religion has no barrier as long as can be
compatible.
For Further information Contact Ragani at:
ragani.devi604@yahoo.ca

Fiji News

www.fijitimescanada.com

Attracting and retaining


the best international talent
to fill skills shortages in key
occupations is critical to
Canadas economic success.
- Hon. Jason Kenney, P.C., M.P.

Minister of Employment and Social Development

Respond to Canadas need


for immigrants.

Become a Regulated
Immigration Consultant

Full-time
Part-time
Online
Apply online at www.ashtoncollege.com or
contact a program adviser at (604) 899-0803.

Ashton College | Vancouver, BC


604 899 0803 | 1 866 759 6006
w w w. a s hto n co l l e g e. co m

Friday Dec 5 , 2014

13

Fiji Airways Announces


Additional NZ Weekly Service
FLIGHTS to Christchurch, New
Zealand, by national airline Fiji
Airways will increase in June next
year.
The airline operates a weekly Saturday
service but from June 23, 2015, flights
to Christchurch will also be included
on Tuesdays.
Announcing the increased flight
schedule, Fiji Airways managing
director and CEO Stefan Pichler said
the additional service would benefit
South Island travellers planning to visit
Fiji, as well as those using Nadi as a
transit point to Los Angeles and other
North America cities.

The service will offer an extra 328


seats between Christchurch and Nadi
and leisure travellers would have more
options, said Mr Pichler.
In a statement, Christchurch Airport
CEO Malcolm Johns said the
permanent additional Fiji Airways
flights would offer new opportunities
for South Island travellers.
"We have seen increased interest in
South Island travellers visiting Fiji and
North America, and the additional Fiji
Airways service reflects the appetite
Cantabrians and the greater South
Island market have for international
travel," Mr Johns said.

State Initiatives Will Have


Detrimental Effects On
Itaukei Rights

Opposition Whip Ratu Isoa Tikoca has


accused the initiatives of Government
as having a detrimental effect on
itaukei rights, their resources and
opportunities to participate equally in
our economic sectors.
Ratu Isoa Tikoca raised the issues in
the budget debate in Parliament and
has argued the 2015 budget has failed
to bridge the economic between the
itaukeis and other communities.
Unfortunately Maddae Speaker there
is not a single mention or allocation in
the 2015 budget by this government
that specifically relates to any induction
programme to assist our indigenous
people to help them elevate themselves
then become active participants along
with all our communities in our
economic sectors, Ratu Isoa said.
The Government Whip says, with some
indigenous institutions removed it has
failed to ratify the UN Declarations
on indigenous people in the last eight
years, which India and China respect.
I believe Madame Speaker not only

the indigenous people here in Fiji and


our brothers and sisters in the MSG
countries understand fully the Articles
and related to the 2015 budget.
There is also the suggestion that the Land
Bank be included into the iTaukei Land
Trust Board to avoid confusion amongst
landowners over financial benefits.
iTLTB should be provided with
funding by government to take on this
responsibility to assist all our people,
all Fiji citizens first not Fiji First.
the members of the party including
everyone else on the other side are
just the ornaments of display, the
semblance of democracy.
The size and role of the military also
questioned.
The budget estimates states the
RFMF is responsible for uplifting and
defending the Fijian constitution, but
this is not the Peoples constitution..
it belongs to the few who wrote and
promoted it and theyve allocated a
total of $103m to protect a few under
the guise of protecting this nation.

The Fiji Times Canada e-Directory


www.fijitimescanada.com

14

www.fijitimescanada.com

Friday Dec 5 , 2014

www.fijitimescanada.com

Friday Dec 5 , 2014

15

16

www.fijitimescanada.com

Canada News

Friday Dec 5 , 2014

Some Airlines Cramming More Seats On Planes,


Meaning More Travel Discomfort

Get ready to get cozy with your


neighbour, if you plan on flying this
holiday season.
Depending on the airline and class
you pick, it might be a little more
uncomfortable, the further back in the
plane you go.
A number of US and international
carriers have been doing everything they
can to maximize profit with more seats.
The traditional single-aisle Boeing
737, which WestJet uses exclusively,
was originally manufactured with
around 160 seats. Now, companies like
JetBlue and Ryanair will cram 200 into

the same airframe.


Emirates has asked Airbus to redesign the
interior of the massive double-deck A380
to allow for an extra seat in every row of
coach, going up to 11 seats per row.
Were seeing a lot of crammed in
seats on low-cost carriers, particularly
in Europe, says Claire Newell with
Travel Best Bets.
So companies like Ryanair and
EasyJet where it is quite cramped
and many cases even here in North
America, like Allegiant Air, you dont
get any seats that recline. They are
getting tighter what we call pitch

basically from the back of your seat to


your knees, where you touch the next
seat. Pitch is something that people are
really concerned with. But what Im
finding is that most carriers are really
aware of that.
And airlines are using that extra space,
which comes from improved designs
and engineering, to ply their first-class
passengers.
Were seeing as many as four different
classes of service on one aircraft. You
basically can choose how much you
want to pay but that means youre
walking by a number of really nice

seats if youre headed to the back of


the bus, explains Newell.
But she says weve yet to see this creep
onboard our major carriers.
On Air Canada, WestJet and American
Airlines, the ones that arent the
charters or the low-cost carriers, pitch
is pretty standard, anywhere from 30
to 32 inches. And while its tight for
someone who is six-foot-four, most
people find it okay, she tells us.
In some cases, a single-aisle airliner
like the 737 will have as many seats as
a much larger twin-aisle plane with a
three-class cabin like the Boeing 767.

Attempted Baby-Snatching; Gas Prices Below $1 Not


12 & 14 Old Charged
Likely In Metro Vancouver

A mother managed to thwart the


attempted abduction of her daughter
by hunching over and wrapping her
arms around the child, police said. A
12-year-old girl and 14-year-old boy
have been charged.
The attempted-snatching unfolded
late Thursday night, Toronto police
said, when a girl and boy allegedly
approached the woman in the east end
of Toronto, physically assaulted her
and tried to make off with her daughter.
The 25-year-old woman was walking
with her toddler at 11:40 p.m. in front
of 128 Guildwood Pkwy., southwest
of Kingston Road, in Toronto's
Scarborough neighbourhood when
she was attacked. She was on her way
home from Scarborough's Guildwood
GO Station.
A boy and girl approached the mother
and her child, and allegedly tried to take
the 21-month-old toddler. The mother
was kicked and punched as she struggled
to dial 911, according to paramedics.
In a message on Twitter, police said the
mother "turtled" around her daughter,
hunching over to protect her during the
attack.
They were unable to kidnap the baby,
but robbed the woman before running
off, police said.
Police found two suspects around
midnight with the help of a canine unit,

and some of the stolen property was


recovered.
Both mother and baby were transported
to hospital with minor injuries. They
have since been released, and police
said the mother is tired but her physical
injuries are minor.
Toronto Police Staff Sgt. Peter Moreira
was seen dropping off a teddy bear
at the apartment building where the
assault happened.
Speaking to reporters, he said the teddy
bear was a gift from the officers at 43
Division.
"It was our way of showing her that
we're obviously thinking of her and her
recovery."
As a result of the incident, the pair will
be facing numerous charges relating
to attempted abduction and robbery,
police said.
The girl is charged with abduction of
a person under 14, assault, two counts
of robbery and one count of uttering
threats.
The boy is charged with abduction of a
person under 14, assault, two counts of
robbery, two counts of uttering threats,
two counts of breach of recognizance
and two counts of failing to comply
with police.
The suspects, who cannot be identified
under the Youth Criminal Justice Act,
are expected to appear in court today.

Tires Slashed Overnight In


North Vancouver
RCMP ask for public's help to identify suspects

The RCMP is investigating a tire


slashing spree in North Vancouver.
More than 150 tires were slashed in the
Capilano University area down to Park
and Tilford according to police.
Tire stores in North Vancouver have
been overwhelmed with demand for
replacements and tow truck drivers
have been called in from as far as
Squamish, B.C..
North Vancouver RCMP say they

continue to receive complaints and are


advising motorists to check their tires
before setting out. They are also asking
for the public's help in identifying
suspects.
Anyone who noticed anything
suspicious, or who has had their own
tires slashed is asked to contact the
North Vancouver RCMP at 604-9851311 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-2228477, or Crime Stoppers online.

Expert says taxes here are the highest in country

While much of the country is seeing


gas dip below $1 per litre, if you live in
Metro Vancouver an expert says taxes
will prevent it from happening here.
[In] Vancouver, the taxes are
extremely high; they are the highest in
the country, says Dan McTeague with
Gasbuddy.com.
He says getting to a dollar would
require oil at the international level
to drop to at least $50 a barrel, maybe
even lower.
$1.05 might be the bottom, but of
course well have to wait and see.
These prices are already at levels we

have not seen in five years. Theres


probably room for another drop of
three or four cents a litre between now
and the begriming of the new year.
If youre into doing the drive, McTeague
says the chances of it dropping below a
dollar in Abbotsford are likely and its
already dipped in the US.
If you look at Bellingham, Point
Roberts or Blaine, youre looking at the
87 to 89 to 90-cent range, he explains.
The retail margins are probably
similar; the big difference is the tax and
thats what is driving people to look a
few minutes south in order to gas up.

VPD Makes A Bust In A


Distraction Theft Ring
Crooks use sleight-of-hand techniques to steal expensive jewellery

A man has been charged in a string of


distraction thefts from unsuspecting
victims who are just going about their
daily lives in Vancouver.
The victims are often elderly or of
visible minority groups.
Vancouver Police believe the 21-yearold is just one person involved in a
suspected crime ring operating across
the city and potentially across the
country.
Sergeant Randy Fincham says four
people were arrested at YVR earlier
this week.
After a fairly lengthy investigation
and a number of tips that came in from
the public, we were able to identify four
men that we believe were responsible
for the distraction thefts, he says.

On December 2nd, all four men were


taken into custody as they attempted to
board a flight out of Vancouver, flying
to eastern Canada.
Spaniol Alexandru has been charged
with one count of theft under $5,000
but the other three were released.
Fincham says they could be charged,
too, but more witnesses need to come
forward with information in the case.
In the last two weeks, crooks have
used sleight-of-hand techniques to
swipe expensive, usually gold, jewels
off nine victims and then leave behind
worthless trinkets.
Police say these types of thefts have
been happening for a couple of years
now, and losses total upwards of
$150,000.

Advertise/Search
The Fiji Times e-directory www.fijitimescanada.com
CANADA

www.fijitimescanada.com

Canada News

Friday Dec 5 , 2014

17

$50M Lotto Max Ticket Hidden By Workplace Pool


Buyer, Claims B.C. Woman
Shoppers Drug Mart employee claims co-worker is sitting on workplace pool's winning ticket

The winning Lotto Max numbers on


March 14, 2014, were: 3, 4, 5, 7, 31,
33, 40 and the bonus number was
49. Gayleen Elliott claims co-worker
Dalbir Sidhu bought the winning
ticket with workplace pool money then secretly converted it for his own
benefit.
A Shoppers Drug Mart employee is
accusing her co-worker of hiding an
unclaimed $50-million winning Lotto
Max Quick Pick ticket she claims he
bought with workplace pool money in
March.
In a notice of civil claim filed in B.C.
Supreme Court, Gayleen Elliott of
Burnaby is suing Dalbir Sidhu for
breach of contract, fraud and $52
million, plus interest.
"At all material times, the defendant has
been in fraudulent possession of, and
has knowingly converted, the March
14, 2014 tickets, one of which is the
winning Quick Pick lottery ticket, for
his own benefit and without the pool's
permission," Elliott's claim reads.

Elliott says she, Sidhu and fellow


Shoppers Drug Mart employees
entered into an informal weekly lottery
pool in 2012.
Sidhu regularly collected $5 from each
co-worker, bought the tickets some
based on numbers chosen by the pool
and others chosen randomly through
so-called quick picks and distributed
any winnings, says Elliot.
After learning of the $50 milliondraw, Elliott claims she asked Sidhu
about the March 14 tickets, which he
allegedly said he bought at a gas station
in Surrey.
But when Elliott asked to see the
validated tickets, she says Sidhu
couldn't provide them.
She claims she and other pool members
approached B.C. Lottery Corp. (BCLC)
and were told their chosen numbers
were never sold.
Sidhu allegedly then sent an email last
week, claiming he actually forgot to
buy the March 14 tickets because of
family engagements around the date of

the draw.
BCLC says the winning ticket was
bought in Langley, and remains
unclaimed. The winning numbers were
3, 4, 5, 7, 31, 33, 40 and the bonus
number was 49.
In her lawsuit, Elliott claims Sidhu

has been in possession of the winning


ticket all this time and has "converted"
the ticket for his own benefit.
Elliott's lawyer declined comment.
None of the charges has been proven
in court, and Sidhu has not yet to file a
statement of defence.

Cost Of Food Expected To Increase In 2015


Prices of meat, fish, seafood expected to go up

You may have noticed your grocery


bills have been higher this year,
especially if youre a big meat eater.
But what will your total at the till look
like in 2015?
The University of Guelph has come
out with its annual food price report.
Sylvain Charlebois with the university
says he thinks prices of meat will
continue to climb.
But he says the momentum wont be

quite as high as it has been this year.


He expects prices will go up between
three and five per cent.
Another category where hes expecting
similar hikes is fish and seafood.
Vegetables and fruits are also likely to
become more expensive.
There are three main reasons
Charlebois gives for the price hikes:
demand, climate change, and a lack of
rain in California.

Our dollars value against the


greenback is decreasing rapidly and so
is our buying power for foods, says
Charlebois.
He adds when it comes to protein, there
are shifts all over that are affecting
prices.
Emerging markets are eating more
chicken, pork and beef. But in Canada,
were not eating as much beef; were
eating more fish and were eating more

chicken, as well. So there are shifts


all over the place, which are affecting
food systems overall, and its affecting
our bottom line as consumers. So
consumers are behaving differently;
theyre buying different things and at
the end of the day, of course, the food
retailing business will have to adapt.
There is some good news: Charlebois
isnt expecting prices for grains and
dairy to change much.

THINKING OF BECOMING A CANADIAN CITIZEN?


Try This Practice Test - Discover Canada

1) What do you call a law before it is


passed?
A. A proposed law.
B. A new law.
C. A proposal of a law.
D. A bill.
2) When is the Sir Wilfrid Laurier
Day is celebrated?
A. Second Monday of November
B. Fourth Monday of Octomber
C. 20th of November
D. 11th of November
3) What is the name of the Governor
General?
A. David Johnston
B. Stephen Harper
C. Adrienne Clarkson.

D. Paul Martin.
4) More than half of Canada's
aeronautics and space industry are
located in which province?
A. Ontario.
B. Quebec.
C. Saskatchewan.
D. Manitoba.
5) Which of the followings are
the responsibilities of federal
government?
A. National defence, foreign policy,
international trade and aboriginal
affairs.
B. Highways, policing, international
trade and criminal justice.
C. National defence, health care,
international trade and aboriginal
affairs.
D. Education, foreign policy, recycling
programs and aboriginal affairs.
6) What part of the Constitution

legally protects basic rights and


freedoms of Canadians?
A. The Canadian Charter of Freedoms.
B. The Canadian Charter of
Responsibilities.
C. The British Charter of Rights and
Freedoms.
D. The Canadian Charter of Rights and
Freedoms.
7) How can you help to protect the
environment?
A. Do not buy gas at a higher price.
B. Use electricity instead of gas.
C. Walking, cycling, taking transit or
carpooling wherever possible.
D. Drive a car to go to and come back
from work by yourself.
8) What are the two official languages
of Canada?
A. English and Chinese.
B. Inuit and French.
C. Canadian English and British

English.
D. English and French.
9) Who has the right to apply for a
Canadian passport?
A. Landed immigrants.
B. Canadian citizens.
C. Visitors to Canada.
D. Green card holders.
10) Which of the followings is a nonCanadian not allowed to do?
A. Get a job in the federal government.
B. Vote in the federal and provincial
election.
C. Go to a government funded
university.
D. Own a property.
1. D
6. D

2. C
7. C

ANSWERS
3. A 4. B
8. D 9. B

5. A
10. B

18

Friday Dec 5 , 2014

www.fijitimescanada.com

100% PURE COCONUT WATER


NO ADDED SUGAR
OR PRESERVATIVES
GLUTEN
FREE
A REAL REFRESHING TASTE
OF COCONUT
STRAIGHT FROM THE TROPICS

NOW AVAILABLE
ASK FOR

PURE COCONUT WATER


WITH A REAL TASTE

GML Fraser Foods Ltd 604. 277. 0988

www.fijitimescanada.com

World News

Ali Al-Hasanat Jailed Over


Threat To Attack Embassy

Ali al-Hasanat was an Australian


resident who spent time behind bars
in Queensland.
A Jordanian man has been jailed for
a year for threatening to blow up the
Australian embassy in Amman and to
kill Australian tourists.
Ali al-Hasanat threatened to blow up
the embassy in a message sent from his
Facebook account with a picture of a
bullet.
The 38-year-old is a former Australian
resident who spent time behind bars
in Queensland for a string of criminal
offences over the past decade.
He denied any wrongdoing in a hearing
last month at Jordan's state security
court, which could have imprisoned
him for up to 15 years.

Sources close to the case said alHasanat was married to an Australian


and made the threats after an argument
with her in January.
The media revealed last month that
al-Hasanat had an extensive criminal
history, with more than 30 convictions
in Queensland.
He arrived in Australia from Jordan in
2001 and settled on the Gold Coast,
becoming a permanent resident in
2004.
A close associate described al-Hasanat
as an unpredictable and violent lone
wolf with a history of using the drug
ice.
He was released from prison in 2012
and deported before being detained in
Jordan in September.
The Immigration Department said his
visa had been cancelled and would be
permanently excluded from Australia.
While Jordan had a significant
community of radical Islamists and had
been the scene of terrorist bombings in
the past, al-Hasanat was not known to
be connected to a terrorist group.
Australia and Jordan are both members
of the US-led international coalition
fighting jihadists of the Islamic State
group.
Jordan has intensified surveillance
of jihadist sympathisers, monitoring
social networks and sermons preached
in the kingdom's mosques.
It recently jailed a number of people
for having joined IS or spreading
propaganda in its favour.

Friday Dec 5 , 2014

19

Haryana Sisters Thrash


Molesters On Bus

The Haryana Police is drawing flak for


not being able to take any action after
an incident of two sisters courageously
taking on three youths, harassing them
on a state transport bus while other
passengers remained mute spectators,
has come to light in Rohtak town.
The brave girls, Aarti and Pooja,
thrashed the youths even as they were
themselves assaulted by them. The
girls hit one particular youth with a belt
and their hands and legs in the incident
that took place in the bus.
The matter came to light after a woman
travelling on the same bus recorded the
incident on her mobile phone, police
officials said.
Police, following a complaint by the
girls, registered a case against the youth.
"We fought the assaulters all alone.
No one came forward to help us as the
youth hit us and even pushed us out of
the moving bus," said Aarti and Pooja.
The father of the girls alleged that police
officials were mounting pressure on them
to strike a compromise in the matter.
The girls alleged that the boys were
blowing kisses at them and throwing
slips towards them on which their
mobile phone numbers were written.
When the girls objected to this, the
youth made lewd gestures and passed
comments on them. A fellow woman
passenger also objected but she was
also harassed by the youths.
Other passengers on the bus, including the
bus driver and conductor, did not come to
rescue or help the two girls. The bus kept

moving as the girls were being assaulted.


The sisters claimed that the bus stopped
after some distance and the youth, and
his accomplices, pushed them out of
the moving bus and started hitting
them. While one girl fell on the road,
the other one fell in a field.
One of the sisters then attacked the
youth with a brick after which he fled
from the spot.
The bus crew and other passengers
neither helped the girls nor did they
inform police. The girls called up the
police and women helpline but failed
to get any response.
"The helpline attendant told us that
they will call up in two minutes. But
we got no call and no help," Aarti said.
Their father Rajesh Kumar said that
police was trying to pressurize him and
his daughters to strike a compromise on
the issue and not to pursue the matter.
The girls alleged that when the youth, who
harassed them, were taken to the police
station, the police official on duty told them
(the girls) that nothing would be achieved
by filing a complaint against them.
The youth were allowed to go despite
the complaint, the girls alleged.
Police officials claimed that the matter
was being investigated.
Two teenage girl students in Rohtak
town, Madhu and Nikita, had committed
suicide August this year by consuming
poison-laced juice after being harassed
by boys. They were fed up by constant
stalking by the boys when they used to
go for their coaching classes.

Bill Cosby Sued By Judy Huth Who Claims He


Molested Her At The Playboy Mansion In 1974 When
She Was 15

Bill Cosby has been sued by a woman


alleging he molested her in 1974 at the
Playboy mansion in Los Angeles when
she was 15 years old.
The court case is believed to be the first
arising from the recent wave of sexual
misconduct accusations made against
the comedian.
The five-page complaint, filed in
Los Angeles County Superior Court,
charged that Cosby sexually abused
plaintiff Judy Huth by putting his hand
down her pants and then "taking her
hand in his hand and performing a sex
act on himself without her consent".
The lawsuit said Ms Huth was molested
after she and a 16-year-old friend were
served "multiple alcoholic beverages"
at a house on the grounds of Cosby's
tennis club before he led the girls to the
Playboy mansion.
It was at the mansion where the plaintiff
said she emerged from a bathroom to
find Cosby sitting on a bed and asking
her to sit beside him.
According to the suit, Cosby knew Ms
Huth's age at the time.

"This traumatic incident, at such a


tender age, has caused psychological
damage and mental anguish for the
plaintiff that has caused her significant
problems throughout her life," the
complaint said.
The
suit
seeks
unspecified
compensatory and punitive damages.
A woman answering the telephone
at the office of Cosby's Los Angelesbased lawyer, Martin Singer, said the
attorney was not commenting on the
matter.
The suit came a day after Cosby
resigned from the board of trustees of
Temple University, his Philadelphia
alma mater, amid a series of sexual
assault accusations lodged against the
comedian and television star by more
than a dozen women in recent weeks.
None of the other women are believed
to have filed lawsuits.
Cosby has not been charged. His
lawyers have described earlier assault
claims as discredited and defamatory.
In 2006, he settled for an undisclosed
sum a lawsuit brought by another

woman, Andrea Constand, who


claimed Cosby drugged and sexually
assaulted her.
NBC and Netflix recently cancelled

projects with Cosby, and reruns of his


top-rated sitcom The Cosby Show were
pulled from cable channel TV Land, all
without explanation.

20

World News

www.fijitimescanada.com

Teacher Stabbed To Death In Abu


Dhabi By Reem Island Ghost
A TEACHER has been killed after she
was stabbed in a horrific attack by a
figure dubbed the Reem Island Ghost.
The kindergarten teacher from the US
and mother of twins, was attacked at
a busy Abu Dhabi shopping centre,
police said.
The woman, identified as Ibolya Ryan,
37, was born in Romania but trained as
a teacher in the US, as reported.
Abu Dhabi police have released CCTV
footage of a robed figure entering the
shopping centre on Reem Island.
The figure is seen briefly talking to a
security guard before grabbing a paper
and disappearing from view.
The suspect then reappears around 90
minutes later running, according to the
timestamp on the video, with shoppers
panicking in the background as they
realise what has happened.
The figure, whose gender is not yet
known, then grapples with a woman
before escaping into an elevator and
out the doors of the shopping centre.
Abu Dhabi Police have released

footage of the incident and appealed


for public information following the
gruesome attack.
The video also contains images of a
bloodstained kitchen knife and blood
spattered across the toilet floor.
The assailant, whose gender is still to
be identified, fled the scene following
the altercation that took place inside
the washroom of a shopping mall,
wearing an aba, black gloves and the
face-covering veil known as a niqab,
police said in a statement.
The attack comes a month after US
embassies issued warnings to its
citizens over potential attacks against
teachers in American and international
schools across the Middle East.
However, it had no specific information
regarding individual attacks or threats.
I am working in a very traditional
neighbourhood and it is very unique to
learn and understand their culture.
US authorities have not yet confirmed
the identity of the victim but did say an
American citizen had been killed.

Friday Dec 5 , 2014

Flight Attendant Fired For


Being Too Sexy

A FLIGHT attendant has been fired after her bosses deemed her simply too
sexy for the skies.

The bloodstained bathroom floor

The Turkish Airlines executives were


unimpressed when they came across a
video of attractive 31-year-old model
Zuhal Sengul prancing around a pool
in a skimpy bikini.
The hostie had already posted a series
of raunchy photographs onto her
Facebook page, showing her in lowcut tops. The photos were taken during
a Gothic-inspired shoot for an Italian
magazine.
A spokesman for the company told the
DailyMail: There are certain standards
and qualities we expect from our staff
and modelling is not one of them.
The decision is part of a broader shift
in Turkey towards more conservative,
more religious values, according to
the president of the airlines labour

union.
Just last year Turkish Airlines banned
its staff from wearing some shades of
lipstick. A statement from the airline
said: Simple make-up, immaculate
and in pastel colours, is preferred for
staff working in the service sector.
However, the ruling attracted so
much controversy that it was quickly
overturned.
President of the airlines Hava-Is labour
union, Atilay Aycin, said at the time:
This new guideline is totally down to
Turkish Airlines managements desire
to shape the company to fit its own
political and ideological stance.
No one can deny that Turkey has
become a more conservative, religious
country.

Advertise/Search
The Fiji Times e-directory www.fijitimescanada.com
CANADA

Health

www.fijitimescanada.com

Never Skip Your Breakfast

In spite of health experts going blue in the face trying to get people to
understand the importance of having breakfast, there are thousands who skip
the first (and most crucial) meal of the day citing lots of reasons.
Having a hearty breakfast helps control
excess hunger throughout the day.
Since we technically fast overnight
while sleeping, forgoing breakfast adds
to this fasting period and may disrupt
blood sugar balance and insulin output.
Skipping breakfast also triggers bad
eating habits during the day, as cravings
ensue and quick-fix fast foods are
often eaten. Having breakfast boosts
metabolism and increases your energy
levels throughout the day. When you
miss it, your energy is reduced and
physical activity levels decline.
An ideal, healthy breakfast
A healthy breakfast provides 25 per
cent of total energy and nutrients
required by the body. "Ideally, your
first meal of the day should comprise a
perfect combination of carbohydrates,
protein and fibre. Make sure you
include fruits, whole grains, berries
and good fats. Also, include high fibre
fruits like apples, papayas, oranges or
watermelons.
What to avoid in the morning
l. Processed, deep fried or oily food,
preserved meat, left over or junk food,
cakes, pastries, and only juices are a
no-no.
2. Avoid refined foods like white
rice and white bread. Instead opt for
whole wheat bread and cereals. Stay
away from deep fried pakodas, puris,
samosas, doughnuts, cookies, potato
chips, candy bars and sodas.
3. Food items like bhajias, wafers,
pizzas and French fries are loaded with
fat, salt and calories and have very little
fibre keep them at an arm's length.
Disadvantages of skipping breakfast
Experts say that skipping breakfast
may put you on the fast track to weight

gain, heart disease, osteoporosis,


irritability or mood swings, menstrual
irregularity, low energy levels, low
memory and hormonal stress. A
study shows that people who skipped
breakfast developed higher bad LDL
cholesterol levels, and were less
sensitive to insulin than people who ate
breakfast every day. And for those who
skip breakfast in a bid to lose weight,
you ought to read this.
People who miss breakfast tend to feel
fatigued early on in the day and have
low concentration levels, affecting
their efficiency. Skipping breakfast
also decreases metabolic rate making
weight loss difficult. Research proves
that people who skip breakfast tend
to be heavier than people who eat a
healthy breakfast. So, if you're looking
forward to losing weight, have a
nutritious breakfast to get a healthy
start to the day.
Importance of a healthy breakfast in
children and teens
The amount of food that a child needs
varies according to height, built,
gender, and activity levels. Most kids
will usually eat the amount of food
that's right for them, however, it is up to
the parents to ensure that their children
have the right foods available to choose
from. Eating a meal should be both a
healthy and an enjoyable occasion a
fact that many parents overlook when
planning a meal for growing children.
Good eating habits start from home so
be a good role model.
Make sure that no one in the house
skips breakfast. A glass of milk along
with a boiled egg, a grilled vegetable
sandwich, porridge, fresh fruit is good
for teens.

Here's Why You Should


Try And Avoid Stress
It can get stressful when we have too many things to juggle, but did you
know that you can actually mess up your plans and keep things from going
smoothly if you are stressed out? Here are some of the mistakes we tend to
make when we are stressed out.
Not getting enough sleep: Sleep is the
first casualty of stress. Stress can keep
you up at night, and you end up missing
out on the vital eight hours of sleep that
you need to rejuvenate.
No grey areas: When you are stressed
out, you tend to think in extremes,
i.e. either all good or all bad. You are
less likely to see anything in between,
which can seriously hamper your
decision-making.
Concentrating only on the negative:
We tend to blow things out of
proportion and magnify our issues
when we are stressed out. This is
when you are most likely to focus on

the negative than on what can be done


to work out the issue.
Rash decisions: When you have a lot
to juggle, it affects rational thought.
When you have several things on your
mind, you are unable to think clearly, so
avoid making any important decisions
when you are stressed.
Not reasoning practically: Sometimes
you need to let go of emotions and
think practically to solve the problem
at hand, but stress can make you think
more emotionally than rationally. So, if
you feel you have failed, you start to
believe that and discount any facts that
may or may not support the claim.

Friday Dec 5 , 2014

21

Bitter Wild Fruits Can


Help Treat Cancer

The compounds that give bitter flavour


to wild cucurbits - cucumber, pumpkin,
melon, watermelon and squash have the potential to treat cancer and
diabetes, finds a research.
These compounds called cucurbitacins
protect the wild plants against predators
and have the potential to suppress
growth of cancer cells.
The fruit and leaves of wild cucurbits have
been used in Indian and Chinese medicine
for thousands of years, as emetics and
purgatives and to treat liver disease.
"You do not eat wild cucumber unless
you want to use it as a purgative,"
said study co-author William Lucas,
professor of plant biology at University

of California, Davis.
The researchers identified the genes
responsible for the intense bitter taste
of wild cucumbers.
They employed the latest in DNA
sequencing technology to identify the
exact changes in DNA associated with
bitterness.
They were able to identify nine genes
involved in making cucurbitacin and
show that the trait can be traced to two
transcription factors that switch on
these nine genes, in either leaves or the
fruit, to produce cucurbitacin.
The new research shows how
domestication tweaked cucumber
genetics to make the fruit more edible.

Trans Fats Bad For Brain


Too

Trans fats are bad not only for your


waistline but also for your brain, shows
a study.
Every gram of dietary trans fatty acids
consumed in a day was linked with 0.76
fewer words recalled, which means 11
fewer words recalled with the highest
trans fat intake compared to those who
consumed least trans fats.
"Trans fats were most strongly linked to
worse memory, in young and middle-aged
men, during their working and careerbuilding years," said Beatrice A. Golomb,
professor of medicine at University of
California, San Diego (UCSD).
For the study, presented at the

American Heart Association (AHA)


2014 Scientific Sessions recently,
researchers analysed the crosssectional relation between trans fat
intake and word memory test in 1018
adults, who had no previous history of
coronary artery disease.
"From a health standpoint, trans fat
consumption has been linked to higher
body weight, more aggression and
heart disease," said Golomb.
Foods have different effects on
oxidative stress and cell energy and
the trans fats do contribute to oxidative
stress, a process that damages cells,
researchers found.

Health Benefits Of
Pomegranate

The fruit is moderate in calories; 100


g provides 83 calories, slightly more
than that in the apples. It contains no
cholesterol or saturated fats.
It is a good source of soluble and
insoluble dietary fibers, providing
about 4 g per 100 g (about 12% of
RDA), which aid in smooth digestion
and bowel movements.
The fruit is suggested by nutritionists
in the diet for weight reduction and
cholesterol controlling programs.
Regular inclusion of fruits in the diets
boosts immunity, improves circulation,
and offers protection from cancers.
Certain ellagitannin compounds such as
Granatin B, and Punicalagin are found
abundantly in the pomegranate juice.
Studies suggest that punicalagin and
tannins are effective in reducing heartdisease risk factors by scavenging harmful
free radicals from the human body.
Total
antioxidant
strength
of
pomegranate fruit measured in terms of
its oxygen radical absorbance capacity
(ORAC) is 2341 mol TE/100 g.
The fruit is an also good source of
antioxidant vitamin-C, provides about

17% per 100 g of daily requirement.


Consumption of fruits rich in vitamin
C helps the body develop resistance
against infectious agents by boosting
immunity.
Regular consumption of pomegranate
has also been found to be effective
against prostate cancer, benign
prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), diabetes,
and lymphoma.
Further, it is an also good source
of many vital B-complex groups of
vitamins such as pantothenic acid
(vitamin B-5), folates, pyridoxine and
vitamin K, and minerals like calcium,
copper, potassium, and manganese.

22

Health

www.fijitimescanada.com

Some Foods That Make


You Smarter

Certain foods are known to help improve memory and improve brain
function. Surprised? Read on to know about some foods that experts say you
must include in your diet.
Oily fish
eggs are excellent brain food. Rich
A common problem that several people in iron, iodine and vitamin B12, eggs
face today is trying to recollect simple should form a regular part of your diet.
everyday tasks what errands you While iron creates red blood cells,
need to run, who you're supposed to which carry oxygen to your brain,
call or what you had for lunch. So keeping you alert, iodine is known to
if you're among those who want to improve problem-solving abilities.
improve your memory, go in for oily Green tea
fish. Experts say that omega-3 fatty Did you know that your brain is made
acids, which are found in fish like up of almost 80% water? This means
sardines, salmon and mackerel, are you need to keep it adequately hydrated
great for overall health and especially so that it functions well. While drinking
the brain. Include a portion of oily fish the requisite eight glasses of water are
in your diet at least twice a week to essential, you could also have a cup of
prevent memory loss.
green tea daily. Researchers say that
Leafy vegetables
green tea increases mental alertness
While many of us tend to turn our and improves memory while the
faces the other way when it comes to antioxidants found in it reduce the risk
eating our greens, but research says of dementia.
that they're excellent for your brain. Chocolate
Spinach and broccoli are high in Rich in flavonoids (brain-boosting
antioxidants like vitamin C and beta- chemicals), moderate consumption of
carotene, known to be healthy for the dark chocolate is known to improve
body. They also contain folate, which cognitive skills, say experts adding that
is known to improve how fast we take flavonoids also activate the formation
in information and recall it.
of new neurons in the brain so that new
Eggs
memories can be formed and improve
Packed with minerals and vitamins, blood flow to the brain.

Bitter Compounds In
Cucumber May Help Treat
Cancer, Diabetes

A new study has found that the


compounds in responsible for the bitter
taste in cucumbers may be able to treat
cancer and diabetes.
University of California researchers
identified the genes responsible for the
intense bitter taste of wild cucumbers.
That bitter flavor in wild cucurbits -- the
family that includes cucumber, pumpkin,
melon, watermelon and squash -- is due
to compounds called cucurbitacins.
The fruit and leaves of wild cucurbits
have been used in Indian and Chinese
medicine for thousands of years, as
emetics and purgatives and to treat liver

disease. More recently, researchers


have shown that cucurbitacins could
kill or suppress growth of cancer cells.
Co-author of the paper, William Lucas,
said that the new research showed
how domestication tweaked cucumber
genetics to make the fruit more edible.
Understanding that process might open
up approaches to developing other food
crops based on plants that are naturally
either inedible or poor in nutrition,
and could also make it much easier to
produce cucurbitacins in large enough
quantities to use in clinical trials and
potentially in medicine.

Why Must You Add Fiber


In Your Diet

Fiber has lots of health benefits. Fiber is found in all fruits and vegetables,
whole grains, legumes. Fiber travels through the body without break down. If
you want to be in good health, you must include fiber in your daily diet.
Health benefits of fiber:
- It reduces constipation and helps
regulate
various
gastrointestinal
disorders.
- A diet rich in fibre may lower your
risk of colon and rectal cancer.
- Research has shown that those eating
a high-fiber diet have a 40 percent lower
risk of heart disease. So, be generous
and add lots of fruits and vegetables in
your diet.
- If you want to knock off few kilos
and feel lighter then you must add fiber
in your diet. Fiber gives a sense of
fullness without adding any calorie. So
you know where lies the trick.
- A high-fiber diet may lower your risk
of hemorrhoids.
- A high-fiber diet may reduce the risk
of gallstones and kidney stones, likely
because of its ability to help regulate
blood sugar.

Kind of fiber
Soluble fiber dissolves in water. Soluble
fiber, like that found in cucumbers,
beans, and nuts, dissolves into a gellike texture, helping to slow down your
digestion. This helps you to feel full
for a long time and could help you in
losing weight. If you want to lower your
cholesterol, you need to add soluble
fiber in good quantity in your diet.
Insoluble fiber, found in foods like
dark green leafy vegetables, green
beans, celery, and carrots, does not
dissolve at all. This helps food to
move through your digestive tract
more quickly for healthy elimination.
However, you must remember that
many whole foods, especially fruits
and vegetables, naturally contain both
soluble and insoluble fiber which is
found in legumes, oats and some fruits
and vegetables.

A new study has found that people who


follow vegan diet are likelier to shed
weight faster than those who consume
a diet containing meat and dairy.
The study, conducted by the University
of South Carolina, compared the
amount of weight lost by those on
vegan diets to those on a mostly
plant-based diet, and those eating an
omnivorous diet with a mix of animal
products and plant based foods. At the
end of six months, individuals on the
vegan diet lost more weight than the
other two groups by an average of 4.3
percent, or 16.5 pounds.
The study followed participants who
were randomly assigned to one of five
diets on the dietary spectrum: vegan
which excludes all animal products,
semi-vegetarian with occasional meat
intake; pesco-vegetarian which excludes
all meat except seafood; vegetarian
which excludes all meat and seafood

but includes animal products, and


omnivorous, which excludes no foods.
Participants followed their assigned
dietary restrictions for 6 months, with
all groups except the omnivorous
participating in weekly group meetings.
Those who stuck to the vegan diet
showed the greatest weight loss at the
2 and 6 month marks.
The lead author on this study, Gabrielle
Turner-McGrievy noted that the diet
consumed by vegan participants was
high in carbohydrates that rate low on
the glycemic index, and said that the
study might help alleviate the fears of
people who enjoy pasta, rice, and other
grains but want to lose weight.
The study also showed the greatest
amount of decrease in the fat of vegan
participants, and saturated fat levels
at the two and six month checks, had
lower BMIs, and improved macro
nutrients more than other diets.

A new study has revealed that sleep


problems that persist after divorce can
be harmful to the health, as it increases
blood pressure.
David Sbarra, the co-author of the
study, said that the sleep problems
that persist for an extended period
after divorce mean that the person is
potentially becoming depressed and
struggling to get their life on track, and

it is these people who are particularly


susceptible to health problems.
Krietsh, the lead study author, suggested
that people who have persistent
difficulties sleeping after a divorce,
should address the issue by seeking
out cognitive behavioral therapy,
making daily schedule adjustments
that promote healthy sleep, or finding
new ways to relax at bedtime.

Vegan Diet Helps Get Rid


Of Those Extra Kilos Faster



















Sleep
Very large glossy Red Roosters $20.00 ea.
(Roosters are ready now)

Live Muscovy Ducks


$30.00 ea

604.594.6755

Way To Grow Products


14418 - 44 Avenue, Surrey BC
8:00 AM - 5 PM Monday - Friday

Friday Dec 5 , 2014

Problems After
Divorce Cause High Blood
Pressure

www.fijitimescanada.com

Lifestyle

Age Appropriate Chores


For Kids

So, how do you get kids to do chores?


Well, in theory its quite simple Start
early, assign age appropriate chores,
explain how to do them, be clear in
your expectations, and follow through
and hold your ground.
When you add in one or several little
or big personalities, depending on the
age of your kids, it can be downright
tough to get kids to do their chores and
do them correctly.
A sound piece of advice I received
from my pediatrician who raised
three children all with wildly different
personalities Remember youre
bigger than them!
That piece of advice may sound simple
and silly, but in the heat of the moment
of parenting, it has actually saved
me from caving in. So, read on and
remember Youre bigger than them
and get your kids to do their chores!
Start
Early
Assigning
Age
Appropriate Chores
Start early and assign kids age
appropriate chores. I didnt do this with
my oldest child and I paid the price! I
made the huge mistake of waiting too
long to have her do chores and clean up
after herself. Since it was just her and I
for a long time, it was easier for me to
do everything.
Assign Age Appropriate Chores
Before you can assign age appropriate
chores, youll have to work quickly
on creating categories of chores such
as cooking, cleaning up after dinner,
doing dishes, vacuuming, dusting
whatever your household needs are,
write them down.
The act of writing them down will help
when you assign chores.
Dont underestimate the visual impact
of posting chores for kids to see. Kids
can easily tune us out, but although
they may try, theyll be hard pressed to
win an argument about chores if they
are posted for everyone to see.
Now with the chores posted for
everyone to see, youre ready to assign
age appropriate chores for to your kids.
Assign age appropriate chores for every
kid and you may even want to rotate
chores every week. You can even use
the chore charts as punishment. For
instance, if your kid gets in trouble, then
they have bathroom duty for one week
or two weeks, whatever works for you.
You may want to include yourself on
the chore list too as this will limit the
amount of whining when your kids see
that you have chores too.
Explain to Your Kids How to Do
Chores
When you first assign age appropriate
chores for your kids to do, explain
and show them how to do chores. For
instance, when you assign setting the
table to a toddler, be specific and show

them how to do it. The same goes for the


older kids. Show them how to correctly
clean a toilet, polish a table, dust off
a picture, whatever you assign them.
This way, if all goes as planned, theyll
do it right. Or, if they dont and want to
argue about it, they wont win because
you gave them clear instructions as to
how to complete the task.
Be Clear in Your Expectations are
for the Chores
When you explain to your child how to
do chores, be clear in your expectations.
For instance, tell them that you will be
following up on their work to see if
they did it as you explained it. Tell your
child how long it should reasonably
take them to complete a task so they
dont waste time.
Follow Through and Hold Your
Ground
Now, depending on your childs
personality, comes the hard part.
Follow through and make sure they
complete their chores according to
your expectations. If they didnt, then
they will have to do them again. I say
this is the hard part because one of my
kids is very stubborn and had to clean a
bathroom three times! No, Im not that
picky, but it was the principle of doing
things as they were told, doing them
with a good attitude, and just doing a
good job in general that I was trying to
instill in my child.
So, follow through and hold your
ground using these tips to get your kids
to do their chores. And, be sure to use
this last critical step as a tool to teach
your child to do a good job in whatever
they do in life.
Heres Some Extra Tips for Chores
for Kids
If you have enough kids to cover
the chores, then give each kid one
day off each week.
Keep the chores for kids system
simple otherwise it wont be
followed.
For extra chores that fall outside
routine chores, develop another
chore chart to post special jobs and
assign to each kid on a rotating
basis. Or, write these chores out on
sticky notes and put in a bowl so
everyone can pick one. Give each
job a reward like money, staying
up late one night, playing video
games, etc.
Speaking of money, I dont
recommend paying kids an
allowance for routine chores
around the house. Chores are
expected and considered a way
to be a contributing member to
the family. I do however pay for
extra chores above and beyond
routine household chores like
those mentioned above. These

Friday Dec 5 , 2014

23

7 Days To An AntiInflammatory Diet

In recent years, scientists have


discovered an even stronger link
between illness and inflammation.
Most Western diets are far too
high in omega-6 fats, which cause
inflammation. Here's seven ways you
can reduce inflammation in your body
and help prevent illness.
Monday
Eat more of a wholefood diet, rich in
brightly coloured fruits and vegetables,
in particular dark green leafy veg (such
as broccoli), berries, beetroot, cherries,
oranges and carrots, which all have
strong anti-inflammatory actions.
Tuesday
Eating too much red meat can promote
inflammation in the body. So if youre
a meat-and- three-veg kind of person,
start incorporating more oily fish into
your diet, like salmon and trout, which
contain plenty of anti-inflammatory
omega-3 fats.
Wednesday
Brighten up your meals with a good
dose of turmeric. This super spice is
well known for its ability to dampen
inflammation in the body. Other
fantastic herbs and spices that fight
inflammation
include
cinnamon,
ginger, garlic, and chilli.
Thursday

Transform your breakfast cereal


or morning smoothie into a super
anti-inflammatory meal by adding a
handful of walnuts, or ground chia, flax
or hemp seeds. These nuts and seeds
are particularly high in heart-healthy
omega-3 fats. Or substitute with soy
nuts, raisins and dried apricots.
Friday
Limit your intake of refined and sugary
foods, which will elevate your glucose
and insulin levels. These types of high
GI foods are pro-inflammatory and can
exacerbate inflammatory conditions.
Instead go for natural, wholesome
foods such as wholegrain breads and
cereals.
Saturday
Swap your morning coffee for a delicious
cup of licorice tea. This well-known
adaptogenic herb contains an active
compound called glycyrrhizin, which
has potent anti-inflammatory properties,
making it beneficial for treating arthritis
and other inflammatory conditions.
Sunday
Guacamole with some whole-grain
crackers makes an excellent snack.
Avocados are full of anti-inflammatory
nutrients and tomatoes also pack
a powerful punch with their high
lycopene content.

Dieting - Tips On Eating Out


One in five calorie-conscious youths are
shunning their friends in favour of their
figures, admitting they would cancel
plans, or have done so in the past, for
fear of ruining their diet. But there are
many options to get the right food while
dining out with family or friends.
According to a survey of 1,000 people
carried out on behalf of restaurant
group PizzaExpress, over a quarter of
women and 12 percent of men admit
to sabotaging their weight loss at the
slightest sniff of a meal out.
Fitness and wellbeing expert has created
a series of top tips on how one can gorge
on foods without thinking of weight.
- Plan ahead - if you know you're going

to be eating out, think about what you


need to do to moderate what you're
having throughout the rest of the day.
One trick is to look up the menu online
first so you order wisely.
- Don't be afraid to ask for your food
to be adapted to suit your needs - many
restaurants are happy to adapt dishes to
your needs.
- Look for dishes with lots of colour if all else fails, eating lots of fresh and
colourful ingredients means you're
getting a range of nutrients.
- Check out lower carb options - we
need carbs for energy.
- Go easy on alcohol - it is okay to treat
yourself, just don't overdo it.

extra chores for kids fall outside


the normal chore list. For instance,
I assigned my oldest the job of
folding all the clothes in her dresser,
my dresser, and her siblings, nice
and neat and gave her $5.
At any point in the chore process,
be firm, but nice, and ignore all
whining.
Remember,
Youre
Bigger Than Them!
Toddlers can help with simple
laundry tasks like sorting the

laundry or taking things out of the


washer and putting them in the
dryer.
Remember, dont do things for
your kids. Make them independent
and get your kids to do things for
themselves.
Use chores as an opportunity to
teach your kids responsibility, to be
a functional member of society, and
most importantly to gain self esteem
for a job well done.

24

www.fijitimescanada.com

For Women/ Relationship

Friday Dec 5 , 2014

Traits That Women Find Attractive In Men


Having gone on a few dates recently it
made me think about the key traits that
women find attractive in men. Many
a night out has ended in me propped
up against the bar wondering if I am
missing some of the vital characteristics
that the female population are crying
out for. Even if I do manage to make
an initial connection with a woman I
still sit there doubting myself. Clearly
I still have a lot to learn when it comes
to a subject area that conjures up so
many ifs, buts and maybes. After deep
thought I think there is much more
to it that simply having a large bank
account or driving a Ferrari. Here is my
fundamental guide to the many traits
that women find attractive in men.
1. HONESTY
Women value trust and honesty in the
male population and these are traits that
women find attractive in men. Being
able to confide in you and knowing that
she can depend on you will do wonders
for her self-assurance. By doing this
you are laying to rest any insecurity that
she may have. If a woman cannot trust
you then how can she ever expect to nail
down a stable relationship with you?
2. MATURITY
College girls like frat boys, but women
beyond college years can find the typical
level of maturity of a frat boy annoying.
Theyre much more attracted to a guy
with some stability and maturity. No
need to land a real job and wear a suit
and tie every day; just show her youve
got your priorities straight and arent only
interested in video and drinking games.
3. BOYISHNESS
This goes directly against the point
above about maturity but women
do seem to be attracted to men with a
boyish, fresh-faced charm. Embrace
your child-like curiosity and wonder
with the world, especially hand-inhand with the spontaneity point.
4. CONFIDENCE
If you can find the perfect balance

between confidence and arrogance then


you will be onto a winner. Women like a
man who has faith in his ability to handle
any situation that he is faced with, no
matter how precarious it may be. If you
believe in yourself then women will
thrive off of your positive attitude and
the aspiring aura that you give off.
5. SPONTANEITY
I cant think of many women who dont
love a spontaneous romantic gesture,
especially when she is least expecting it.
Carrying out these thoughtful moments
from time to time will show a woman
that you are considerate whereas the
element of surprise will demonstrate
to her that you are as unpredictable as
a British summer. Remember its the
thought that counts.
6. MANLEY-NESS
Women tend to like men who are, well,
manly, in more than just physique.
Know your way around a car, and some
electronics. Be able to open that stuck
jar, and dont freak out around spiders.
These are basics, but in general, just be
your own male self.
7. CLEANLINESS
No one, man or woman, likes someone
who ignores basic hygiene at home, and
with themselves. Dont be a slob. Keep
your flat tidy, including the bathroom,
and keep yourself clean, too, of course.
8. INITIATIVE
This goes hand in hand with confidence,
but women also seem to like men who
take initiative, and make plans or suggest
outings without many hints or prompting
9. OPEN-MINDEDNESS
Most women like a man whos openminded, though that doesnt mean you
have to be entirely liberal in your views, or
that you cant be somewhat conservative.
This makes sense in your professional
life, not just the dating world, too.
10. FITNESS
This isnt a surprise, is it, that women
prefer men who are concerned about
a reasonably healthy diet and overall

fitness? We like that trait in women,


too. Dont worry about having a perfect
six-pack, or starting a vegan diet, but
dont be afraid of spending a little time
at the gym, and show her that you eat
more than fast food.
11. PRIORITIES
Be generous with your time. By making
time for a woman it shows that you care
deeply about her and have a burning
desire to spend time with her. It will
also demonstrate to her that she can
rely on you when she needs somebody
to listen to or offer important advice.
12. SENSE OF HUMOUR
Women love a man that can make them
laugh. The environment you are in will
prosper from the positive atmosphere
and will bring you and her closer
together. The happiness that your
humour will elicit from her will help
remove any stresses from her mind
as it will give her a powerful feeling
of relaxation. You may be not be her
doctor but always remember that
laughter is the best form of medicine.
13. THANKFULNESS
We don't like women who whine and
complain all the time, and women don't
like men who do the same. It's better for
your own mental state to be thankful
for what you have, rather than be
unhappy with what you don't, and that
gratefulness is something women love.
14. ABILITY TO INSPIRE
Every woman needs a man to pick them
up from time to time. By displaying an
upbeat approach and supporting her you
will soon elevate her levels of confidence
to new heights. Your enthusiasm and
faith in her ability as well as your own
will leave her craving to be surrounded
by your positivity as often as possible.
15. KINDNESS
An act of kindness or a good deed
will go a long way. Knowing that you
are unselfish in your actions and that
you treat others with respect will only
enhance her attraction towards you. This

will once again inspire confidence in her


and there is nothing more beautiful than
a confident woman wouldnt you agree?
16. GENEROSITY
Women love men who are generous,
and its not just about the money.
Women find it attractive when a
man is generous with his time, too,
with her and with causes he believes
in. Demonstrate your generosity
by writing a check to a charity you
support, but also by volunteering your
time, and shell be smitten.
17. INTELLIGENCE
We cant all be Einstein, but women
do love men who exhibit intelligence.
Strive to be well-read, and up on current
events. She may not care whether you
can build a rocket or explain quantum
physics, but shell be suitably impressed
if you can hold a conversation about
more than just football stats and such.
18. COMPASSION
In this day and age, compassion
seems to be lacking in both men and
women, but youre not that guy. Youre
compassionate, caring for those in dire
straits. Show compassion for your fellow
humans, and animals, while youre at
it, and shell admire that. Unless shes
cold-hearted, in which case, shes not
worth impressing anyway.
19. RESPECT
A woman friend once told me that
if she was on a date with a man, and
he was polite to her but rude to their
waiter, shed be repulsed. It makes
sense: show respect to everyone, even
those who may not deserve it, like the
snide waitress or the less-than-friendly
clerk. Your even temper and show of
respect will impress her.
You may not agree with all or any of
the above characteristics that I have
discussed. However ask any woman
and I am sure she would rather you
possessed them than not possess them
at all. What other important traits do
you think women look for in men?

Things You Must Tell Your Partner

Below are some important things you


just have to tell your partner.
A relationship is based on conversation
between the two people involved, more
than anything else. At times, there's
no way around but to be vocal about
certain things, when with your partner.
While it may be hurtful or unpleasant
at the moment, more than often, it does
good in the long haul. Here are some
things you must let your partner know,
to be in a healthy relationship.
My expectations
Where's this relationship heading at?
You prefer the FWB (friends with
benefits) bit, or is this something much
more than the regular attraction, or are
you sure about a future with this man?
These are things he needs to know,
because well, you've got to be sure
how he feels about it too, right?
Love? Not you

Relationship

You've been with this man for four


years, but in between met another
'Mr Right'. Let him know about this.
It is important, and don't just ignore
the conversation because you think
it'll break his heart. If so, you will be
extremely unfair not only to yourself,
but also to the two other men involved.
I spent that much...
A little spending here and there can
be information avoided. But if you've
had a major dent in your wallet like

never before, or bought something


unimaginably extravagant, be it
jewellery, property or something else
under the sun, its best you let your
man know. Such matters do make a
difference at times.
I'm upset
His aunt taunted you on the way you
dress, or his brother's girlfriend has
made it clear that she thinks you're
annoying; anything to do with his
family or friends that makes you

uncomfortable, discuss with him. Tell


him what you feel about it and also ask
him if there's anything you can do to
save the situation.
Likes, dislikes and more
Things that end up being a bone of
contention, in the long run, such as
likes, dislikes, preferences in terms of
food and other activities, also serious
past relationships, must not be kept a
secret from your partner. You don't
want to run into troubled waters later
in life, would you?
I need space
Sometimes you just need your lone
time and then there's no two ways
about it. But make sure when you do
need that space of your own, you tell
your guy the same, so you can avoid
any conflicts at the moment. You know,
he wouldn't know what you feel at the
moment unless you tell him.

Friday Dec 5 , 2014

www.fijitimescanada.com

Bula Mai Fiji

25

YOUR ISLAND IN THE SKY

SPECIAL SEAT SALE TO:

FIJI
AUSTRALIA
NEW ZEALAND &
SOUTHWEST PACIFIC DESTINATIONS

Tour Packages, Cruises to all destinations


now available at :
www.sohivacations.com
INDIA - PAKISTAN - EUROPE
EAST ASIA - MIDDLE EAST

Destination
Weddings
Sunil Sharma

#152 - 12899 80th Avenue, Surrey BC V3W 0E6


info@sohivacations.com

26

Recipe

www.fijitimescanada.com

Chicken, Shrimp and


Lamb Sausage Jambalaya

Ingredients:
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken
thighs
1 lb lamb sausage, cut into 1/4 inch
slices
1 large onion, chopped
2 celery ribs, diced
1/2 green bell pepper, diced
1/2 red bell pepper, diced
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon sweet paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4-1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 1/2 cups long grain rice
1 (14 ounce) can tomatoes,
chopped,with juice
2 cups chicken broth or 2 cups stock
8 ounces medium shrimp, peeled and
deveined
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

3 green onions, finely chopped


Directions:
1 Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
2 In a large pan or Dutch oven, brown
chicken in hot oil on both sides; remove
and drain.
3 Add sausage, onion, celery, bell
pepper, thyme, oregano, paprika, salt,
and cayenne pepper to the pan, cooking
and stirring for about 5 minutes until
onions are tender.
4 Add rice, tomatoes with juice, and
broth; bring to a boil.
5 Place rice mixture in a baking dish or
oven-proof casserole; top with chicken;
cover (can use foil) and bake at 350
degrees F for 40-45 minutes or until
rice and chicken are done and tender.
6 Stir in shrimp, parsley, and green
onions; cover and cook 5-8 minutes
longer or until shrimp curl and turn
bright pink and serve.

Ingredients
1-1/2 cups flour
1 stick butter
3/4 cup sugar
Cooking Instructions
Leave the butter out of the fridge to
soften a little.
Cut pieces into the flour and rub
the butter into the flour with your
fingertips. The result should be like
fine breadcrumbs.
Then mix in the sugar.
Grease the bottom and sides of an 8x8-

inch round or square baking pan with


butter and sprinkle with flour.
Press the mixture very hard into the
bottom of the baking pan (use lots
of pressure, that's what makes the
shortbread hold together), and bake at
350 degrees for 30 minutes.
Cut with a sharp knife into desired
shapes while it is still warm and
sprinkle the top with additional
sugar.
Let it cool in the pan - if you take it out
too soon, it falls apart.

Shortbread

Friday Dec 5 , 2014

Hoisin Chicken Stir-Fry


Ingredients:
4 - 6 ounces snow peas
(4 ounce) can sliced water chestnuts,
cut into quarters
1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized
pieces
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
4 tablespoons hoisin sauce
2 teaspoons sugar
Directions:
1 Soak snow peas in very cold water
for a few minutes only if they are not
crisp; trim and string them; blot peas

and water chestnuts dry with a clean


paper towel; set aside.
2 Sprinkle chicken pieces with salt and
cornstarch; stir or toss to coat evenly.
3 Add vegetable oil to a large
nonstick skillet or wok over mediumhigh heat; heat until oil is almost
smoking; add chicken to skillet and
saut 2 minutes or until the chicken
is just barely done; add snow peas,
water chestnuts, hoisin sauce, and
sugar to skillet; saut 1-2 minutes
more until chicken and veggies are
evenly coated with sauce; serve with
rice or noodles.

Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes

Ingredients
4 russet potatoes, sliced into 1/4 inch
slices
1 onion, sliced into rings
salt and pepper to taste
3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups milk
1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
Directions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200
degrees C). Butter a 1 quart casserole dish.
Layer 1/2 of the potatoes into bottom of

the prepared casserole dish. Top with


the onion slices, and add the remaining
potatoes. Season with salt and pepper
to taste.
In a medium-size saucepan, melt butter
over medium heat. Mix in the flour and
salt, and stir constantly with a whisk
for one minute. Stir in milk. Cook until
mixture has thickened. Stir in cheese
all at once, and continue stirring until
melted, about 30 to 60 seconds. Pour
cheese over the potatoes, and cover the
dish with aluminum foil.
Bake 1 1/2 hours in the preheated oven.

Friday Dec 5 , 2014

www.fijitimescanada.com

27

INTRODUCING THE SERVICES OF:

SANJILA D.S. BEESLA

Independent Investment & Insurance Broker

604.315.9612

Email:z.sanjila@gmail.com
LIVE WITH CONFIDENCE

CRITICAL PROTECTION

NO MEDICAL EXAM

We all know someone who has been affected by critical illness.


The good news is that survival rate from heart attack or cancer has
increased considerably in the last few years.
Would you have the financial means to take care of your family
if you were affected by a critical illness?
Critical Protection pays out lump sum and gives you the freedom to
choose how to use the money!
YOUR HEALTH CAN CHANGE IN AN INSTANT, BUT YOUR FINANCIAL
HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE SHOULDNT BE AFFECTED.

Have you been denied or hard to get insured?


I CAN GET YOU INSURED!
Call today and have your existing policy reviewed at no cost or obligations
Its the smart thing to do!
More Term, Permanent, Critical, Disability, RRSP, TFSA, RESP
plans also available!

28 www.fijitimescanada.com

Aries

This week you need to be more careful


in doing actions. Egoistic tendencies
should be avoided in relationship. Pay
attention to the signals your body sends
you. Try not to feel so dissatisfied with
your circumstances and be as realistic
as possible, instead of needlessly
having such impractical feelings and
yearnings that ultimately dont make
you happy. Your noticeably fearless
approach impresses, you have the
stamina to tackle any task. Unafraid
you take on more commitments even
though youve enough to do already.
You have a knack with people; you
approach them openly and youre
likely to meet particularly interesting
people in this way. Enjoy your life
whatever becomes apparent and be
open to anything that fate decrees and is
willing to offer you. According to plan,
work commitments are easily dealt
with, leaving; you the time to devote to
the things you are really interested in
or find more important.

Taurus

This week it would be normal.


Others find you attractive and any
approaches you make towards them
for consideration are also likely to
meet with success. It may be they
feel you owe them an apology for a
slight you have long forgotten. Dont
be unduly deceived assert yourself in
the spirit of compromise rather than
anger. Accept that this is a testing
time when its possible to resolve
certain issues and if you cant dont
get too worried about it. Do things in
your free time that cheer you up and
help you to relax. Overly confident
in the way you express yourself, you
run the risk of alienating people with
your unthinking attitude towards
them. Youre totally preoccupied with
matters that are important to you and
concern you alone, and therefore
appear very demanding. A far more
diplomatic approach is required, make
your request in an appropriately polite
way and youre less likely to cause
offense. Always treat others the way
you want to be treated yourself and
create a stress-free environment for all.

Gemini

This week you will be benefit by visiting


temples and involving yourself in acts
of devotion. Practicing meditation will
be good for you. Your aspirations will
get fulfilled easily. You will posses
courage and determination to carry
out things in an effective manner. You
will be occupied with work for the
week. Gaining knowledge about your
work will do wonders for you. Your
productivity will improve and you will
gain recognition at work. You will be
able to finish the work assigned to you
on time and gain appreciation. Money
gains will be limited for the week. You
may need to maintain better record of
the financial transactions. Progress will
be there in financial matters. You will

Friday Dec 5 , 2014

use money for auspicious purposes.


You will receive benefits, incentives,
perks for the work that you are doing.
This will make you happy. Maintain
patience in relationship. Listening
to the advice of elders will be good
for you. You will be spending money
for the welfare of your family. There
will be peace and harmony at home.
Health may remain disturbed as you
are prone to suffer from headache and
hypertension.

Cancer

Strong visions relating to possessions


or power, or concerning erotic
experiences are only resisted by you
with a great deal of effort. Explore
bothersome feelings youve awakened,
that may have remained dormant,
hidden for a long time. You face a
number of challenges, and feel as if
you have to prove yourself all the
time. This is quite exhausting and
unnerving, which tends to put you on
edge. Make sure you keep your temper
and avoid unnecessarily showing your
displeasure towards those you are
supposed to care about most. Practice
more self-restraint and be more
careful about how you treat others.
Treat yourself to a calm and relaxing
break, use the time to readjust plans
and coordinate them with your partner
and your family. Its easy for you to
lose control and become embroiled in
arguments which can cause problems
that dent your pride.

Leo

You may take some useful decisions


that will serve your purpose. You will
make sincere efforts to fulfill your
wishes. You will find favorable results
in your career. There will be plenty
of chances for you to prove your
talent in work. You will be busy with
hectic schedule in your work. Manage
your time well to cope with the rising
demands. Investing in shares will give
you profits. Speculation will also give
you results. Financial progress will be
moderate and you may need to take
care of your finances well and this is
very important. You will find peace
and harmony in relationship. Progress
and development of your children will
give you satisfaction. The week may
not be very healthy for relationship as
there are chances for some unpleasant
moments. Be patient in your approach,
you will be able to maintain good
fitness which will make you happy.
You may have headache due to stress,
keep yourself flexible and relaxed in
your approach, meditation is advisable.

Virgo

The week will bring changes, you will


have the courage to deal with situations
and thereby make it positive. Your level
of confidence could be little low; it will
be good for you to maintain a positive
attitude. Involvement in spiritual
practices will be good for you. Avoid
taking major decisions; good results
can be achieved with sincerity. You

may go for travel related to your job,


this will keep you busy. You should
be careful while handling your work.
Money prospects will give mixed
results for the week. There will be more
of spending rather than money gains.
There will be good relationship in the
family. Watch your communication,
however, to avoid heated exchanges
with your close kith and kin. Money
flow will not be good for the week;
due to negligence you may lose money
for the week. There will be lack of
happiness in the family. Ego problems
may affect relationship. Health of your
close partner may give you worries.
You may need to incur some medical
expenses for the same. You may feel
discomfort due to too much of stress.
Body ache is also possible.

Libra

A good week in general. You


should depend more on your hard
work. Success will come to you
through sincere efforts. Rarely are
circumstances so favorable, expect full
hearted support from those close to you,
who care about your future, make the
most of their support. Down to earth,
youre composed and confident in the
way you approach any outstanding
issues and developments both at work
and on the home front. The thorough
approach you take is complimented by
the strength of purpose that is apparent
to all who know you. You finish usual
projects in an efficient, determined
way; get involved with even more
work and show how capable and
reliable you are. Surprisingly you have
time for a private life too which you
are unlikely to neglect. Youre able to
pay attention to detail, not demand too
much, accomplish what you set out to
achieve and take full responsibility for
the outcome.

Scorpio

This week you remain calm and be


mindful of your priorities. Do not
lose hope if things do not materialize
immediately. Plans for construction or
buying of a house will be good for the
week. You can take an initiative for the
same. Handle your excessive energy
with caution; otherwise you end up in
protracted discussions that are of no real
benefit. Instead of wearing yourself out
by being unduly competitive, focus on
projects that dont put your important
relationships at risk. For example,
campaigning against your boss will
probably be draining but of little
benefit to your future prospects. Better
to think beforehand and not be so rash,
dont make unnecessary enemies of
those close to you, such insensitivity
offends your loved ones. If you allow
this to happen youre likely to need a
great deal of patience and tact to rectify
the situation. A more advantageous use
of your excess energy is to engage in
some athletic activities.

Sagittarius

This week if you require help from

others be more patient and diplomatic


in the way you approach them. You
possess a higher than usual level of
pent up anger that needs dealing with
in a constructive way, if you dont
want to suffer from the consequences.
Ease up on the talking and avoid
putting others on the defensive. Even
if you personally feel on top form,
be prepared to take things at a more
leisurely pace otherwise you may suffer
setbacks from unnecessarily taking
on far more than you able to handle.
Misunderstood, you find it intolerable
the way others behave towards you.
This is definitely not the best time to
meet up with people, especially as you
constantly feel so aggravated by what
they say. Postpone visits and meetings
with others if you can, until you feel
more agreeably towards them. Instead,
use your time for reflection and to sort
yourself out. You possess a higher than
usual level of pent up anger that needs
dealing with in a constructive way,
if you dont want to suffer from the
consequences.

Capricorn

This week you feel deeply dissatisfied.


The way you react is unnerving for
others and makes them despair of you,
whilst youre oblivious to the effect
youre actually having on them. Try
to slow down and think about things
carefully before acting so hastily. A
hurried approach results in mistakes,
the consequences of which have to
be painstakingly sorted out later.
Surprisingly you have time for a
private life too which you are unlikely
to neglect. You inspire others with your
ideas and plans, your cool, calm and
collected approach wins people over
and they have little reason to refuse
the advances or suggestions you make.
Proposals you put forward at work are
also met with a favorable response
and colleagues, previously difficult
to deal with, are willing to listen.
Take this opportunity to develop new
strategies you can implement in future,
that provide you with a foundation to
overcome any tough times that may
possible lie ahead of you.

Aquarius

You may need to make yourself devoted


towards work. Responsibilities will keep
you occupied. You may need to plan
your work so that you make the best use
of your time and potential. Fluctuations
will be possible in monetary matters. You
may have to deal with more expenses for
the week. You may well make exciting
new acquaintances who find you totally
fascinating to be with; they demand your
full attention. There may be some heated
exchanges in the family. It is essential for
you to keep yourself calm and patient.
Follow your feelings and don't think
too much about the consequences that
result. Obviously this isnt acceptable
to those you know, self-discipline and

Continued On Page 29

Friday Dec 5 , 2014

www.fijitimescanada.com

29

Couldn't Dream Of Equaling Sitara Devi's Stage


Presence: Asha Parekh

Asha Parekh till today remains one


of the best dancers in the Hindi film
industry. But the veteran actress says
one person she could never dream to
dance with was Sitara Devi.
"I could never dream of equaling her
stage presence. She would always say
that when you are on stage, you must
make direct eye contact with every
male member in the audience so that
it seems you are dancing only for him.
I could never do that. I feel I was too
inhibited on stage," Asha said.
Sitara Devi, hailed by Hindi film
industry as the country's 'Kathak
goddess', died Tuesday following
prolonged illness. She was 94.
"She was a firebrand and a livewire.
She was very closely associated with
Gopi Krishna (Sitara Devi's nephew),

and so was I. So we'd often meet in the


old days. She was always a rebel, did
whatever she wanted to. And what a
dancer," Asha, who is a trained dancer,
said in a tribute to the late danseuse.
Asha was always in awe of Sitara Devi.
"She could do whatever she wanted
to. She had a magnetic personality.
Anyone who came in contact with
her was mesmerised. And so was I.
She was the most outspoken person I
know. She said whatever came to her
mind without being bothered of the
repercussions.
"Her life is an open book and every
chapter is exciting. It's a life well-lived.
I never got a chance to dance with her
on stage. I am glad. She would have
completely overshadowed me," added
Asha.

With infamous hit and run case


proceeding towards its decisive end

things seems to be getting even more


worrisome for Dabangg of Bollywood
Salman, who is also the main accused
in the case.
In the latest twist it has come to light
that on the fateful night when Salman's
SUV mowed down a few pavement
dwellers sleeping on the footpath in
the Bandra suburb of Mumbai the
actor was drunk much beyond the
permissible limits.
The latest disclosures made to the
Mumbai Sessions Court by one of
the chemical analysis experts has
testified that alcohol content found in
Salman's blood was much higher than
the permissible limits. In his statement
to the court said analyst stated that the
reports of the Salman's blood test which
was conducted post the occurrence of
mishap revealed that that 62 ml alcohol
was present in his body which is even

Hit-And-Run-Case: Big Trouble Awaits Salman, High


Alcohol Consumption Confirmed

Continued From Page 28


compromise is essential. Such relentless
behavior results in problems both at
home and at work. Watch out that these
excesses dont become a noticeable
feature in other areas of your life. You
need to be more self-aware and make
sure that it doesnt.

Pisces

A better week to improve yourself. You


will wish to learn new things and this
will be very useful for you to give best
for the week. Dont be too upset; if you
plan everything, then many of life's
more surprising pleasures or unusual
outcomes never occur. Instead be more

alert to the many hidden treasures


life holds in store that ultimately
change your lifes path positively in
the future. Clearly you are more than
cable of expressing your needs and
requirements to others. You know
what you want and cleverly are able
to bring about the outcome you desire.
Especially professionally, youre
paving the way for new responsibilities
or even a promotion. Your relationships
and love life improve immeasurably
too, with invitations and proposals
making life seems a bit of a whirl. Any
physical activities are less of an effort
than usual. Put your sneakers and do
the exercise you enjoy most.

more than the double the permissible


limits i.e. of 30 ml.
In his statement the said official also
informed that he also conducted the the
Morpholin test on Salman's blood samples
which further confirmed the findings.
In the previous hearing, another witness
(a JW Marriott's parking assistant)
also confirmed Salman's being on the
driving seat, and also informed that
the actor who was accompanied by his

three other friends tipped him with 500


bucks while leaving the hotel premises.
The hit and run case, in which Salman
is under trial for charges like culpable
homicide not amounting to murder,
dates back to 2002 in one person lost
his life whereas 4 others got injured.
So now with the latest developments
in the case there is no denying the fact
that the days ahead are not going to be
easy for Salman.

Veteran actor Deven Varma passed away


on Tuesday, early morning. According
to a report, he succumbed to a heart
attack and kidney failure at around 2 am
in Pune. He was 78 years old.
His funeral was held at 12 noon at the
Yerawada crematorium.
Verma breathed his last around 2 a.m.
at his home in Pune, the city of his birth
from where he graduated in politics and

sociology before joining the film industry.


The comic actor was best known for
his roles in comedies directed by Basu
Chatterji, Hrishikesh Mukherjee and
Gulzar. Deven Varma has been a part
of several memorable Bollywood films
like Bemisal, Judaai and Dil To Paagal
Hai. He also played Aamir Khan's
father in Andaz Apna Apna.
He has also produced and directed
some films including Besharam.
He has won Filmfare Best Comedian
Award for Chori Mera Kaam, Chor Ke
Ghar Chor and Angoor, the last being
directed by Gulzar and still considered
one of Bollywood's best comedies.
He was last seen on big screen in 2003
in Calcutta Mail.
He is survived by his wife Rupa
Ganguly, the younger daughter of the
late legendary actor Ashok Kumar.

Bollywood Pays Tribute To


Deven Varma

Advertise/Search
The Fiji Times e-directory www.fijitimescanada.com
CANADA

30

Friday Dec 5 , 2014

www.fijitimescanada.com

When SRK, Salman And Aamir Did A Towel Dance


Together

Well it looks like before saying good bye.


2014 wants to give cineasts' fraternity
especially of Indian origin some of the
biggest moments of their lives which
they couldn't even expect for.
A couple of weeks back it was the
union of Salman and SRK at Arpita's
Mehndi ceremony, followed by another
memorable "Karan Arjun Moment"
on her reception. And now the much
sought after Khan duo has been joined
by their third "Khan-Bhaai", Aamir.
After seeing Salman and SRK's burying
all their past acrimony and sharing some
picture perfect moments in the recent
past fans were eagerly waiting for the
arrival of Mr Perfectionist in the frame.
Finally it happened when this most
sought after Khan trio together mounted
on the same stage to celebrate 21 years
of the television show Aap Ki Adalat.
Now after witnessing these three sharing
the same stage at the same time and
that too without even a minute pinch

of rivalry or remorse on their faces, it


looks like the era of Khan rivalry has
finally come to an end. And now "AAL
IS WELL" between these three.
While being on the stage along with talk
show host Rajat Sharma, SRK,Salman
and Aamir not only gave paparazzi
and shutterbugs a picture perfect
moment, but also left everyone amused
and charmed by their stupendous
camaraderie and mad antics. Where
they performed Salman's signature
styled towel dance along with Rajat.
SRK and Salman didn't stop here and
rather went a step further and landed a
double kiss on veteran talk show host's
face, who was literally astounded by
this gesture of the duo.
So now after seeing these three coming
together on the same stage and sharing
the warm vibes one thing looks quite
conspicuous that "Khan Era" has once
again revitalized itself to rule the
Bollywood.

advertise on

bcrealestateagents.ca
search www.bcrealestateagents.ca

AGGARWAL
________________
________________
LAW OFFICE LTD.

Civil Litigation:
Contract Disputes
Builders Lien

Family Law:
Divorce
Custody & Access
Maintenance
Property Division

ide
We Prov al
n
io
s
Profes
Most
t
A
s
Service titive
Compe
Rates

O
AL

Wills & Estate:


Probates
Letter Of Administration Trust
Drafting Wills & POA

Notary Services

Real Estate:

Property (Residential & Commercial)


Sale, Purchase & Mortgage
Business Sale & Purchase
All Agreements, Contracts & Leases

All types of Documentation & Attestation/ Notarization


*First Consultation Is Free In Most Cases*

Naresh Aggarwal

Barrister, Solicitor & Notary Public

E:info@aggarwallaw.ca
W:www.aggarwallaw.ca

We Speak Hindi, Urdu, Punjabi & English

604.596.3366

#20 - 8430 128th Street, Surrey BC


(Opposite Grand Taj Banquet Hall)

Mon - Fri 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM


Saturday 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday (By Appointment ONLY!)

Friday Dec 5 , 2014

www.fijitimescanada.com

31

Casinos And Tourism Led Recovery: Caution Against


Optimism Bias

By: Dr. Gopal Nair PhD


In December 2011, an American
company, One Hundred Sands Limited
(OHSL), managed to secure a 15-year
exclusive licence to construct and
operate two casinos in Fiji. The first
stage of an integrated resort, The Grand
Fijian Casino Resort, was expected to
be completed by 1 October 2013, on a
17-acre site at Denarau Island at an
estimated cost of F$290 million. If
everything went according to plans, the
company hoped to build another
gambling establishment, in Suva,
sometime in the future.
But not everything has gone according
to companys expectations. OHSL
outbid SkyCity Entertainment, among
others, to emerge as the preferred
developer; reportedly, out of a total of
34 expressions of interest received by
the government of Fiji (12 from Fijian
companies and 22 from foreign
companies). However, OHSL may
have bitten more than it can chew
because the project appears to have run
into some difficulties. The driving
force behind OHSL is an American
entrepreneur, Larry Claunch, whose
initial foray in Fiji involved the
development of 19-hectare Nukudrau
Island in Savusavu Bay, which he
acquired in 2008. His plans to build a
5-star, $70 million resort on Nukudrau
have not come to fruition and the
project remains incomplete. It is now
listed for sale on China Beijing Equity
Exchange (CBEX) as a potential Fiji
Project Transfer for US$22 million.
The Denarau casino project has been
dogged by numerous delays. The
construction
was
expected
to
commence in June 2013. It was
suspended after the commissioning of
a geotechnical report. By June 2014,
OHSL had lost one of its original
partners,
the
American-Indian
Snoqualmie Tribe,
which
had
commenced legal action to recover
their initial investment of US1.5
million plus interest. At the time,
OHSL announced they were partnering
with Tim Manning, an Auckland
property developer, and recommitted
to finishing the project in the ensuing
two years. Still, its failure to complete
the project on schedule meant the
company was in breach of its contract
and had to cough up a fine of
US$100,000 per month, which only
added to its woes.
One can only
assume that the selection process
would have involved a thorough due
diligence on prior experience, financial
backing and the capacity of the
intended operator(s) to deliver the
project on time, but, it appears that a
number of downside risks may have
escaped more critical examination.
First, Fijis immediate neighbourhood
is already saturated with casinos: three
in Vanuatu (currently one is listed for
sale); one in PNG; two in Solomons;
three in French Polynesia; three in
New Caledonia; and, there are five

well run and quite famous casinos


operating in Northern Mariana Islands.
An obvious question arises: why
submit to metooism in the midst of an
already overcrowded niche market?
Fijis
attractiveness
is
better
characterized by a blend of five key
elements: peace and tranquillity,
friendliness and world class hospitality,
unhurried and idyllic lifestyle, pristine
environment with enchanting sceneries,
and an assortment of superb four to
five star resorts. Excellent golfing,
surfing and beaches are a bonus. When
you have these why bother with casinos
with all the nefarious connotations of
the industry? It is difficult to reconcile
the presumed allure of a fast money
spinner
and
contributions
to
government coffers with all the likely
negative consequences associated with
the industrys underbelly.
Second, there are many existing and
proposed casinos in the broader Asia
Pacific region and, at a time of flux in
the industry, over reliance on aspects
of casino-led recovery seems to be
quite disingenuous. The governments
understandable, if over-enthusiastic
embrace of the project appears to
overstate the overall benefits likely to
accrue from a relatively large
investment (for Fiji) in what is
generally perceived as somewhat
unsavory and less socially-acceptable
leisure pursuits of the moneyed classes.
There are thirteen casinos in Australia
(excluding six smaller club settings)
and six in NZ; but the giant of all,
Macau, has 6 casino resorts embedded
within a staggering $45 billion industry.
Other Asian countries also strongly
compete for the casino dollar and
facilities can be found in Japan,
Singapore,
Korea,
Vietnam,
Philippines, India and Sri Lanka - not
to mention Las Vegas and some key
European destinations farther afield.
Third, the above issues are relevant
and of concern, but they dwarf into
insignificance when one looks at the
fierce competition that the Fijian casino
will likely face from two proposed
assets in Australia. Due to the
proximity, they will present significant
challenges for Fijian casino. The first
project is already underway: it is James
Packers $2 billion Barangaroo
development with an ambitious vision
to turn Sydney into a truly global city.
Sydney already boasts the best harbour
in the world, and combined with its
beaches, Opera House and other
landmarks, the project is deliberately
aimed at reshaping the city to rival
Monte Carlo as the preferred
destination for Chinese and other highnet-worth Asian tourists. Packer wants
to link with world-class sporting
events, tennis, golf and F1 motor racing
to attract tourists to Australia. The
completed project would also
incorporate facilities to cater for major
international business conferences and

cultural events. It is envisaged that


Sydney would host the biggest and best
Chinese New Year celebration outside
of China. The second project is
spearheaded by Hong Kong billionaire
Tony Fung and his son, Justin. They
are in the throes of obtaining final
approval to commence construction of
$8 billion Aquis-Reef Hotel Casino at
Yorkeys Knob near Cairns. It is truly
an audacious project set to be completed
in two stages; it will have an
international casino and the proposed
mega-resort will be spread over some
343 hectares, surrounded by a
65-hectare artificial lake and featuring
two large casino halls, nine luxury
hotels with some 7500 rooms,
convention centres, theatres, high-end
shopping malls, an aquarium,
13-hectare lagoon, 18-hole golf course,
25000-seat sports stadium, 1800-unit
staff accommodation, riding trails and
an equestrian centre.
T o
give it some context, it will triple the
regions hotel capacity and the complex
will be larger in size than Singapores
two casinos combined. Cairns city
already possesses a distinct advantage;
it is the only city that has two worldheritage-listed sites: the Daintree and
the Great Barrier Reef. And, unlike
OHSL and its associates, the Fungs
hail from one of Hong Kongs bestknown and well-connected banking
families. Their project will be listed on
HK Stock Exchange and not many
seriously doubt their ability to execute
and fund the project from a combination
of debt funding, private equity and
public offerings.
Fourth, the Fijian governments
support for the project appears to rest
on the delivery of the nations first
1500-seat, state-of-the-art conference
and convention facility, and a 300room hotel when stage two is
completed. In June 2012, the Permanent
Secretary of Tourism, Elizabeth
Powell, advised the Fiji Institute of
Accountants Congress that the casino
would boost government revenue and
taxes; plus, she argued, it would entice
more visitors to Fiji, encouraging them
to stay longer and spend more. Faced
with challenges of ever-increasing
demands for services, it is hard for any
government to overlook other revenue
streams from auctioning of gambling
licences, gambling taxes and/or
ownership of gaming facilities.
Currently, Fiji imposes a gambling
turnover tax on all service providers of
gambling activities at the rate of 15%.
Whilst more benign forms of
unregulated gambling existed in Fiji
for many years (lotto, scratches, bingo
and sports betting), it is a quantum leap
from these to establish legalised
casinos, notwithstanding proposed
checks and balances, and other
assurances of controls expected from
the Fijian Gaming Commission Control
Board. Fifth, the experience in two

neighbouring countries should give


cause to rethink of the strategy. In its
2006 report, Oxfam established that a
foreign-owned casino in Vanuatu,
operating since the 1980s, neither
generated an increase in tourist
numbers nor contributed to any
economic growth. In fact, it found that
all casino profits were repatriated
overseas and none of it was ploughed
back into the economy by way of
investment. More disturbingly, the
report found that in recent times, the
wealthy tourist numbers had diminished
and the casino was being patronised
more and more by the poor locals and
female market vendors, in the hope of
capturing that elusive quick buck. For
Vanuatu, the casino had created a
growing social problem of gambling.
In the same year Fiji issued its first
casino licence, the Solomon Islands
Democratic Party also called for the
reform of its gambling laws (in June
2010) in view of perceived social
problems attributable to casinos in its
capital, Honiara.
In view of the foregoing, it is not at all
surprising there is continuing but
understandable disquiet in certain
quarters. In June 2012, the Fiji Council
of Social Services expressed its
concerns about lack of consultation
and regard for proper social impact
studies. The objections from Chiefs,
CCF, Churches and NGOs didnt carry
sufficient weight to overturn the
original decision to grant the licence to
OHSL. Despite the 2014 election
result, the current Opposition Party,
Sodelpa, has unambiguously stated
that it wants Fiji to be a casino-free
country, and opposition to casinos
appears to be common amongst the
grassroots. Those who know Fiji well
argue religion plays a major part in the
lives of all three dominant ethnic
groups, and many fear casinos will
have negative influence on their
religion, and may lead to the erosion of
their tradition and culture. Historically,
Fiji had witnessed widespread
opposition to the idea of opening a
casino. Past governments of all
complexions were equally tempted but
lacked the political will. They all had
no choice but to shelve any proposal
for casinos due to strident objections
from individuals, NGOs, religious
organisations, civil societies and even
some members of parliament.
For the detractors though the pendulum
appears to have swung too far towards
greater
permissiveness
and
acceptability of gambling in the Pacific,
Asia, USA and the rest of the world.
Whilst the lawmakers seek to restrict
gambling activities and regulate
gambling behaviours, by their very
nature, it is nearly impossible to fully
mitigate social costs or completely
disrupt problem gambling behaviours.

Continued On Page 32

32 www.fijitimescanada.com

Friday Dec 5 , 2014

Casinos And Tourism Led Recovery: Caution Against


Optimism Bias

Continued From Page 31

And, therein lies the germ of the


problem according to a study by Prof.
N.S. Schull of MIT. In her 2012 book
Addiction By Design: Machine
Gambling in Las Vegas (PUP) she
argues the gambling facilities are
specially engineered to make them
seductive and exciting for the visitors
to spend more at the casinos; slot
machines and video gambling, which
now account for some 85% of gaming
industrys profit, are designed to hold
visitor attention and maximise their
time on device; the machine
algorithms and the strategies employed
by casinos ensure visitors do not depart
early and keep on playing; and, the
architecture of the casinos is crafted to
promote prolonged periods of
gambling. They all aim to separate
players from their money.

We can argue about
who is actually responsible for the
inevitable gambling addiction in some,

and what responsibility, if any, the


politicians or the industry as a whole
should have. But Schull also suggests:
The whole modus operandi of the
industry is to approach the human
being as something thats manipulable.
So I find it disingenuous that they then
turn around and argue that 100 percent
of the responsibility for any harm is on
the person. Under the neoliberal
global agenda driven by notions of free
enterprise and individual responsibility
it is more difficult to challenge what
the pro-choicers regard as irritating
social considerations. And, direct
access to power by the industry
lobbyists will ensure the pollies are
constantly reminded of their campaign
contributions. So, as always, spin
doctors will deliver to the industry
what it wants by obfuscating and
circumventing any obstacles in its path,
and operators will continue to routinely
employ sophisticated tactics to achieve
their goals
For decades American-Indians have

relied on casino industry to lift them


out of poverty, despair and destitution.
Today, some 310 reservations in USA
continue to accommodate many of
Americas poorest 1%. They continue
to languish in abject poverty in zones
of hopelessness that offer little more
than corruption, alcoholism, lack of
education, lack of job opportunities
and remoteness from main centres:
factors that guarantee their failure and
ensure they remain on the fringes of
the mainstream American society. This
exists in the worlds largest, and one of
the most advanced and richest
economies. There are many salutary
lessons to be learnt here that should
have equal resonance in a diverse,
conflicted and unequal society like
Fiji.
Fiji has a small
population with abundant resources,
which it should be able to exploit
responsibly and astutely to achieve
economic
development.
Stable
democracies have built their prosperity
on enlightened property rights,

commitment to free enterprise and free


markets, good governance and
adherence to the rule of law. Fiji has
time to take a more objective and
critical view of its growing reliance on
tourism. Rich Asians are not the
panacea for all global economic
problems and hopes of a casino led
recovery in Fiji may turn out to be
chimeric. It may be difficult for the
government to extricate itself from the
complexities of its contractual
obligations to OHSL but the failure of
the licensee to deliver the project on
time may well have provided an
opportunity to ditch the project in its
entirety. Its timing may be a blessing
but it remains to be seen if the
government will take advantage of this
manna from heaven for the benefit of
all Fijians.
Gopal Nair PhD is a Sydney-based
writer and commentator. The opinions
expressed herein are his and do not
in any way represent the views of the
publisher(s). Sydney, December 2014.

FARAON

COCONUT JUICE
Distributed by:
GML Fraser Foods Ltd

604.277.0988

Friday Dec 5 , 2014

www.fijitimescanada.com

Canadas Leading Psychic Healer

Spiritual Healer, Reader & Advisor


Most Problems Solved in 24 Hours
All readin
Tells Past, Present & Future
gs
and con private

too
m
e
l
rob
p
o
ll
N
a
m
s
big or

fidential

Palm, Tarot Card and Psychic Readings,


Crystal Ball, Dream Interpretation.

Restores success and happiness back into your life


Will succeed where others have failed. Will tell you your enemy by name.
This god gifted healer will help and advice you on all of lifes many problems.
Removes black magic(Kala jadoo) negative influences and bad luck.

Over 20 years
experience

Helps in

Love/Marriage Business/Finance House/Business Blessings


Jealousy/Lost Love Health/Depression Court Case/Immigration
Alcohol/Drug Addictions
Specializing in Reuniting Loved Ones

72 hours guaranteed results - Call today for a better tomorrow


FLEETWOOD, Surrey

Free Consultation

778-868-3162
By Appointment only 10am-9pm open 7 days a week

33

34 www.fijitimescanada.com

Friday Dec 5 , 2014

TIMES
SPORTS
Fiji International Set For Struggling Oilers Staying
TIMES

October 2015

The PGA of Australia together with


the Fijian Government announced
the second Fiji International golf
tournament will be held from October
15 18, 2015.
In making the announcement alongside
the Fijian Attorney General and Minister
for Finance, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and
the Minister for Industry, Trade and
Tourism Faiyaz Koya, Brian Thorburn
CEO of the PGA of Australia said the
October date provides significantly
increased benefits for all stakeholders.
"October is a more suitable month in
terms of world golf schedules, as all
Majors are complete and many Tours
are slowing down or just getting started
for new season. It is also early in the
PGA Tour of Australasia summer of
golf, and broadcasting Fiji is a fantastic
way to start the televised events," said
Thorburn.
"In addition, the 2015 Fiji
International will be held the week
after The Presidents Cup in Korea,
where 24 of the world's top ranked
players will be competing, and we will
endeavour to have one or two of them
playing in Fiji."
The later date will also allow for
a larger field size due to extended
daylight hours, with the PGA Tour
of Australasia already liaising with
OneAsia Tour to extend the field.
"An increase in daylight means we
have the opportunity to explore a larger
field size which could see wide ranging
benefits across a number of areas."
added Thorburn.
On the back of a successful inaugural
Fiji International tournament in August
this year, the PGA of Australia and

tournament promoters Sports and


Entertainment Ltd (SEL) are now set
to capitalise on the interest generated
by the inaugural event to maximise
promotion
opportunities
both
domestically and internationally.
"The world now knows that Fiji is
a genuine golfing destination. Golf
tourism has the proven ability to attract
a broad range of markets from golfing
holiday, conferences, events and
incentive groups," said Basil Scaffidi,
Managing Director of SEL.
"The benefits are not limited to the
tournament week only, it extends
year round. The Fiji International is
the platform used to generate mass
exposure for Fiji to leverage a slice of
the estimated US$2billion worldwide
golf tourism industry," added Scaffidi.
With 11 months until the event, the
PGA and SEL will be working closely
with Tourism Fiji to showcase Fiji as
the newest player on the world golfing
stage.
The inaugural Fiji International
received extensive interest worldwide,
with players, guests and officials all
singing Fiji's praises as a host nation.
Already in Australia there has been
significant interest to increase the
volunteer program which saw a sell
out of 20 volunteers from Australia and
New Zealand attend.
October dates will allow more positions
to become available for volunteers and
is one of many strategies in place to
increase visitation and the foot print of
Fiji as a golfing destination.
Further information will be available
in the coming months on the Fiji
International website.

The Course

At the end of his 30-minute colloquy,


it was evident that Edmonton Oilers
general manager Craig MacTavish was
not prepared to deviate from his game
plan.
Head coach Dallas Eakins isnt going
anywhere, for now. There wont be any
rash trades made, just for the sake of
shaking things up, nor will the core be
punted to clear the way for another rebuild.
What has to happen, MacTavish
continued, is that there needs to be a
level of internal accountability from
the players currently in the room.
This availability is not going to satisfy
anybody, and thats not the intention of
it, he said on Friday in his first stateof-the-union address since this season
unravelled to the point where the club
has again plummeted to the bottom of
the standings.
Dating back to 2009, the Oilers now
own three of the six worst winless
streaks in the NHL. Aside from the
11-gamer they will drag into Sundays
game against the San Jose Sharks, they
lost 11 in a row in 2011 and 13 in the
2009-10 campaign.
The New York Islanders and Carolina
Hurricanes both authored 14-gamers in
seasons past.
Weve made an incredible amount of
change ... and were all frustrated. Im
pissed off. Theres no satisfaction in
the situation that we find ourselves in
currently, MacTavish continued.
This will be the ninth straight season
the team has missed the playoffs. The
NHL record is 10, a streak of futility
registered from 2000-2011 (that
includes the lockout season).

In the previous five seasons, Edmonton


has finished 30th twice, 29th, 24th and
28th.
Well get to the bottom of it. Well
continue to make rational, responsible
decisions in spite of the situation were
in. Thats the leadership Im going to
provide.
MacTavish did acknowledge that
there is an organizational overview
underway, a process involving Bob
Nicholson, the vice-chairman of the
Oilers Entertainment Group. That
evaluation is to cover everything from
coaching to drafting to the GMs role.
Coaching
Eakins is the fourth coach to run the
bench since the 2009-2010 campaign,
and was hired by MacTavish to replace
Ralph Krueger. The GM said that
message hasnt changed, even if the
messenger has.
The Oilers are 35-59-14 under Eakins.
Coaching is under scrutiny, make no
mistake about that, but in my mind, at
this time to make a coaching change,
MacTavish said. Weve changed
assistant coaches, weve brought in cocoaches. Weve brought in former head
coaches. Weve had four coaching
changes ... And those coaches were all
delivering the same message.
We need a higher level of execution ...
There has to be personnel changes and
more competitive people brought in
over time but we need this group, and
I want the group to know at the end of
this, that the emphasis largely on them.
And that includes the coaches to try to
get us to a level of performance so that
we can have success in the NHL.

GM Craig MacTavish says organizational evaluation continues, no major


changes planned as NHLs worst team flounders

advertise on

bcrealestateagents.ca
search www.bcrealestateagents.ca

www.fijitimescanada.com

Friday Dec 5 , 2014

Das könnte Ihnen auch gefallen