B.C. EVENTS: For the week of Saturday, February 24

23 February 2018

(These are FREE listings. Submit your event at EditorVoice@gmail.com)

Free South Asian Health Forum

In support of seniors, their families and caregivers, UBC’s interCultural Online Health Network is producing Healthy@Home: Living well with Chronic Conditions on Sunday, March 4. This free South Asian health forum will be delivered in Punjabi with simultaneous interpretation in English. This forum will highlight strategies and best practices for managing these chronic conditions at home through nutrition, medication management, stress reduction, exercise, and more. In addition, the forum will feature the opportunity to ask questions to the experts, health exhibitions, resources and community support programs. Open House: 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Where: Grand Taj Banquet Hall, 8388 128^th Street. Who: Punjabi-speaking seniors, families and caregivers – everyone is welcome. Free to public. Register: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/icon-south-asian-health-forum-living-well-with-chronic-conditions-registration-42211406453

By phone at 1-877-357-7611 or Jay Bains at 604-763-6523. For more information, visit www.iconproject.org. Facebook: www.facebook.com/iconproject

Blood Donation

Canadian Blood Services has issued an urgent call for Canadians to give blood. More than 35,000 donors are needed by spring break to ensure all patients continue to have access to the blood and blood products they need. Visit blood.ca, download our GiveBlood app or call 1-888-2-DONATE and find a nearby donation site. Walk in appointments are also available at all locations.

Free Eye Health Clinic

Canadian Eyesight Global’s Free Eye Health Clinic, sponsored by Rotary Club of Surrey-Guildford, will be held at the Nanaksar Gurdwara Gursikh Temple,18691 Westminster Highway, Richmond, on Sunday, February 25, 1-4 p.m. A team of eye surgeon, Dr. David Neima, and associates will participate. Everyone is welcome. Volunteer help needed. Anyone interested in sponsoring an eye camp in their village in Punjab or any other part of India, contact: Anup Singh Jubbal, President, Canadian Eyesight Global, at 604-582-0579, www.CanadianEyesight.org

Pet Lover Show

At TRADEX, 1190 Cornell Street, Abbotsford, from Saturday, February 24 (10 a.m.-6 p.m.) and Sunday, February 25 (10 a.m.-5 p.m.) Over 30 unique features and events, including “Ask the Trainer” seminars and grooming demonstrations and free photos for your pup. Admission: Adult (16+ years): $14 / Senior (65+) or Youth (6-15): $10 / Child (5 years and under): Free / Family (2 youth, 2 adults) $34. Tickets are now on sale and can be purchased in advance online at a discounted price. For more information, visit www.petlovershow.ca. Follow the Pet Lover Show on Facebook, on Twitter: @PetLoverShow, and on Instagram: @PetLoverShow

South Asian Seniors: Carpet Bowling

Vedic Senior Parivar Centre of Vedic Hindu Cultural Society Surrey invites South Asian adults / senior members as well as non-members to come and play carpet bowling, a great exercise free of cost, and make some new friends, on Sunday, February 25, 2-3:30 p.m., at Shanti Niketan Hall of Lakshmi Narayan Hindu Temple, 8321 140^th Street, Surrey. Even if you have never played, Baldev Raj Kohli will teach you the game. All are welcome. Tea and snacks will be served. Call Surendra Handa, coordinator, at 604-507-9945 for further details.

Psychology Month: Talks in Punjabi

Free public presentation series for Psychology Month: Sunday, February 25, 2-3:30 p.m.: Supporting young adults heading to post-secondary by Dr. Manbeena Sekhon at Newton Library, Surrey, 13795 70^th Avenue, Surrey. (For info on more talks, visit www.psychologists.bc.ca or call 604-730-0501.

Conversations on Community Safety

Monday, February 26, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Surrey City Centre Library, 10350 University Drive, Surrey, at Ambedkar Room, 4th floor. The City of Surrey has a Public Safety Office and an official Public Safety Strategy; its 2017 budget for Public Safety services was $227.2 million. “Conversations on Community Safety” is a series of gatherings where we can talk about the impact of these initiatives on our lives, critically examine our current approaches to policing, and think about alternatives for community safety. Organized by Alliance against Displacement — www.stopdisplacement.ca

South Asian Seniors: Filing Income Tax Returns Free

Vedic Seniors Parivar Centre of Vedic Hindu Cultural Society Surrey informs South Asian Seniors that during the tax filing period we can help you to file your income tax returns for the year 2017 free of cost through the community volunteer program of Canada Revenue Agency from February 26 to April 30 if you are living in Surrey / Delta. The eligibility criteria are: 1. Single individual with annual income limit up to $30,000. 2. Couples with annual income up to $40,000. 3. Three persons’ income $42,500. 4. Four persons income’ $45,000, 5. Five persons’ income $47,500. 6. Add $ 2,500 for additional members. Interest income not over $ 1,000 and this income will be included as total eligibility. With no investment income, no rental income, no business or partnership income and no capital gain or loss. Sin# card and photo identity will be required to prove the documents. If you are eligible, contact Surendra Handa, coordinator, at 604-507-9945 for further information.

IHOP Restaurants: National Pancake Day

IHOP Restaurants and Miss Universe Canada partner to provide much needed funds for local Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. In celebration of National Pancake Day on Tuesday, February 27, participating IHOP Restaurants will once again offer guests one free short stack of their famous Original Buttermilk Pancakes, in the hopes that they will pay it forward with a voluntary donation to the Children’s Miracle Network member hospital in their community. To find a local IHOP restaurant, visit www.ihoppancakeday.com

Surrey Board of Trade Business Networking Reception

At The Flamingo at 10768 King George Boulevard, Surrey, on Tuesday, February 27, 6-8 p.m. A short presentation will take place at 7 p.m. Guests will enjoy an evening of beverages, appetizers, good music, and great company while networking with Surrey’s growing and diverse business community. This will also be an opportunity to see recent renovations, learn about upcoming events, and venue rental opportunities. David Geertz and the Penmar Community Arts Society have partnered with the Flamingo property owner and developer Charan Sethi of Tien Sher to help create an arts and culture hub at the Flamingo. This is on course to the revitalization of Whalley. Parking: Free at the front and behind the Flamingo buildings. Admission: Free. For more information, contact Anita Huberman, CEO of the Surrey Board of Trade, at 604-340-3899.

MOSAIC Culture Connection

Hindi, Urdu and Punjabi. Join us for this culture connection activity which takes places every Friday. Connect with other people and learn more about the Canadian culture. This will be conducted in Hindi, Urdu and Punjabi. Fridays, until March 23, 6-8 p.m. at MOSAIC Surrey Office, #200 7134 King George Boulevard. Contact: Attif at 778-591-9334 / aihsan@mosaicbc.org

Vancouver Book Launch: Policing Black Lives

Book Launch of Policing Black Lives with Author Robyn Maynard and guests on Thursday, March 1 at 6 p.m. at SFU Harbour Center, 515 West Hastings, Vancouver. Full event details: https://www.facebook.com/events/399026460520621/

UBC Department of Asian Studies

10th Annual Harjit Kaur Sidhu Memorial Program: Celebrating Punjabi language and culture at UBC. From March 2 to 4. * Friday, March 2, 7:30-9 p.m. UBC Asian Centre Auditorium, 1871 West Mall, Vancouver. “Awazzan” (“Voices” 2016): A documentary on the UK-based Punjabi language poet Amarjit Chandan. * Saturday, March 3, 7:30-9:30 p.m. UBC Robson Square, 800 Robson Street, Downtown Vancouver. “Anhe Godhe da Daan” (“Alms for a Blind Horse” 2011): A film exploring the experience of marginality in contemporary Punjab. * Sunday, March 4, 4:30-7:45 p.m. Surrey Centre Stage (Surrey City Hall), 3450 104^th Avenue, Surrey. Co-organized with the Gursharan Singh Memorial Lecture Committee. “Chauthi Koot” (“The Fourth Direction” 2015): A film portraying individuals and families negotiating a space between separatist and state forces amidst the violence of the 1980s in Punjab, India. Awards for student Punjabi-language essay contest winners and for lifetime achievement to a BC-based Punjabi writer will be presented. https://asia.ubc.ca/events/event/the-2018-harjit-kaur-sidhu-memorial-program/

South Asian Film Education Society

The South Asian Film Education Society presents a film screening and discussion of “In Custody” (1993) (‘Muhafiz’). Directed by Ismail Merchant. Starring: Om Puri, Shashi Kapoor, Shabana Azmi and Sushma Seth. Language: Urdu / Hindi. An Indian university teacher (Om Puri) seeks to preserve the last works of an ailing Urdu poet (Shashi Kapoor). Adapted from the novel by Anita Desai. Venue: Room 4955 – SFU Goldcorp Centre for the Arts, 149 West Hastings, Vancouver, on Saturday, March 3, 2-5 p.m.

Surrey: Sanctuary City, Not Detention City

Public Forum on Sunday, March 4, 1-4 p.m., at Surrey Centre Library, Room 120

10350 University Drive, Surrey. Panel: Chelliah Premrajah, Harsha Walia, Mohammad Zaman.

Moderator: Sejal Lal Overture: hospitality in Vancouver: Patricia Gruben with Martin Gotfrit on mandolin. Organized by South Asian Network for Secularism and Democracy (SANSAD).

PICS: New Child Care Centre, Cloverdale

Progressive Intercultural Community Services (PICS) Society is opening a Child Care Centre at 6050 176^th Street within Cloverdale Rodeo Grounds premises on March 5. After surveying the community of child care needs in Cloverdale, PICS decided to provide these services to the needy families. All families are encouraged to register their children at the earliest convenience. These children should be between the ages of 3 and 5 years. Fees are very reasonable and may vary according to the children’s care schedule. Call Eva Touzard, Community Connections Coordinator, at 604-596-7722, ext. 138, or Devinder Chattha, Director, Language Studies, Settlement & Social programs at ext. 107 to register your child or for any other information.

MOSAIC: Tax Clinic

Need help to prepare your tax return? Volunteers can help you prepare your income tax and benefit return if you have modest income and a simple tax situation. Must be a permanent resident and filing for 2017 only. Call for more information and eligibility. Registration is required. Language support available. Phone line opens on March 5. Dates: March 12, 14, 16, 19, 21, 23, 24, 26, 28, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at MOSAIC Head Office, 5575 Boundary Road, Vancouver. Contact: Katherine 604-254-9626

Shakti Film Festival

Through the Shakti Film Festival, we aim to promote and bring an awareness of women filmmakers, including directors, producers, writers, production crew and films that portray women as strong, empowered, and realistic characters. We invite you to join us for the launch of the Shakti Film Festival where we will showcase some clips of empowering films that reflect the values of our film festival. We will have a discussion with local film, media personalities and community leaders about the relevance of this film festival and the role that media plays in shaping society. When: Thursday, March 8, 6:30-9 p.m. Where: Ultimate Banquet Hall, 8072 120^th Street. Tickets: $20 (can be purchased via e-transfers or cash.) Includes: Hors d’oeuvres and cash bar. For more information or sponsorship enquiries, call Sonia at 604-307-8796 or Alison at 778-896-0294 or email shaktisociety2000@gmail.com

A Journey Into Islam

Join us on Saturday, March 10, 5:30-10 p.m., for the sixth annual A Journey Into Islam exhibition and open house. A Journey Into Islam is an initiative undertaken by the youth of the Az-Zahraa Islamic Centre, designed to convey the core beliefs and practices of the Islamic faith in an interactive and comprehensible manner. They aim to create a comfortable environment in which guests are welcome to ask questions and engage in dialogue with members of the community. The goal of the event is to showcase our faith through an evening full of interactive exhibits, guided tours of our beautiful Centre, and a tasty ethnic dinner. The exhibits are designed to address various elements of our faith, and to clear misconceptions. The theme of this year’s event is ‘Dialogue in Islam.’ Address: 8580 No. 5 Road, Richmond. Email ajourneyintoislam@az-zahraa.org if you are interested. For more information about the event and what to expect, visit http://ajourneyintoislam.org./

The Dance Centre: Discover Dance!

The Dance Centre’s popular Discover Dance! noon hour series features the classical Indian dance style of Bharata Natyam, with a performance by Mandala Arts and Culture. Thursday, March 15 at 12 noon at Scotiabank Dance Centre, 677 Davie Street(at Granville), Vancouver. Tickets $14 / $12 students, seniors and children from Tickets Tonight at 604-684-2787. www.ticketstonight.ca Info: 604-606-6400 www.thedancecentre.ca

The Raga Experience

A sitar presentation of western and Indian classical music by Sharanjeet Singh Mand (sitar) with tabla accompanist Hriday Buddhdev on March 16 at Surrey City Hall, 13450 104^th Avenue. This is part of the celebrations leading up to Juno week. The program: Pre-concert Reception: 7 p.m. Seating: 7:50 p.m. Concert: 8-9 p.m. Followed by Q&A till 9:15 p.m. Tickets are $12 and available at Tickets.surrey.ca

(For more events, visit the “Events” section of our website at voiceonline.com)

Surrey RCMP: Can you identify this suspect who robbed a restaurant?

23 February 2018

SURREY RCMP are requesting the public’s assistance in identifying a suspect who allegedly robbed a restaurant chain this past November in the Newton area of Surrey.

On November 13, 2017, at approximately 8 p.m., the Surrey RCMP received a report of a robbery at a sandwich restaurant in the 13200-block of 72nd Avenue. The lone male suspect allegedly entered the restaurant and selected a drink from the fridge. The suspect then approached the cashier and pulled out a large knife and demanded money. The suspect left the restaurant in an unknown direction.

Surrey RCMP’s Robbery Unit is leading this investigation. A number of investigative steps have been completed, however, the male has not been positively identified.

The suspect is described as a dark-skinned male, approximately 25 years old, heavy-set, and between 5’6”-5’8” tall. He had a trimmed beard and was wearing a blue hoodie and black jacket.

“Robberies involving businesses can be stressful situations for employees, however, many businesses thankfully have best practices in place which includes the use of video surveillance,” said Surrey RCMP Cpl. Scotty Schumann. “If you recognize this alleged suspect or have more information about this incident please contact Surrey RCMP or Crime Stoppers.”

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

If you wish to make an anonymous report please contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or www.solvecrime.ca.

WSO rejects allegations of rising radicalism against Canadian Sikhs

23 February 2018

THE World Sikh Organization of Canada said on Friday that following up to and during Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s visit to India, a number of media sources reported allegations of “rising Sikh radicalism in Canada”. In response to these allegations, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said he “will not crack down on those advocating peacefully for an independent Sikh state because that is a freedom of speech issue.”

The WSO said that it strongly rejects allegations of rising Sikh radicalism in Canada. Speaking out against human rights abuses and peacefully advocating for political causes cannot be confused or mistaken as radicalism.

The WSO noted: “Allegations of “Sikh radicalism” are not supported by facts and are used as a euphemism for speech that India finds disagreeable. Since 2007, every bilateral meeting between Canada and India has seen the issue of “rising Sikh radicalism” raised by the Indian side. There is nothing new or substantiated in the allegations currently being made. In contrast, four Indian diplomats were expelled from Canada in 1986 for espionage and interference within the Canadian Sikh community. Last year, bureaucrats from the Consulate General of India in Canada attempted to cancel a Punjab pavilion at a city wide cultural festival in Brampton, Ontario.”

WSO President Mukhbir Singh said, “What should have a been a week to celebrate the history and success of Sikhs in Canada with the visit of Prime Minster Justin Trudeau to Sri Darbar Sahib (Golden Temple) has become a barrage of groundless accusations of radicalism, violence and extremism. As a result, many Canadian Sikhs have found themselves answering questions posed by co-workers and friends about extremism and radicalism. To be clear, the WSO and Canadian Sikhs abhor violence. Furthermore, allegations of extremism amongst today’s Canadian Sikh community are disingenuous and not founded on actual evidence.”

WSO Senior Vice President Bhavjinder Kaur added, “While many in the Canadian Sikh community are concerned about issues such as human rights in India and lack of justice for the victims of the 1984 Sikh Genocide, this cannot be confused with radicalism. Even the Sikhs who believe in and advocate for a separate Sikhs state do so in a peaceful manner. Unfounded allegations made against Canadian Sikhs are incredibly damaging and result in actual harm against the community. The Sikh community is thriving and proud of its accomplishments and contributions to every facet of Canadian life.”

Surrey RCMP: Can you identify this taxi cab robber?

23 February 2018

SURREY RCMP are asking the public to help identify a man who allegedly robbed a taxi driver earlier this month in south Surrey.

On February 1 at 11:30 p.m., a taxi cab picked up a fare in the 2200-block of 160th Street. The lone suspect sat in the front seat of the cab during the short trip and asked the driver to pull over near 160th Street and 20th Avenue. While parked on the side of the road, the suspect used a knife to threaten the driver and steal his money. The suspect then fled on foot and could not be located by police. The driver was not harmed during this incident.

Surrey RCMP’s Robbery Unit is leading this investigation. Officers have obtained surveillance pictures of the suspect and are sharing them to assist in identifying him. The suspect is described as a white male, 5’8″ tall, with a medium build, wearing a black jacket, black cap and black rimmed glasses.

“Investigators are confident someone will recognize the suspect from these high quality pictures,” said Cpl. Scotty Schumann. “If you know who this person is please contact police or Crime Stoppers to help forward this investigation.”

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

If you wish to make an anonymous report, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or www.solvecrime.ca.

Modi makes clear to Trudeau: Those challenging India’s unity cannot be tolerated

23 February 2018

Trudeau and Modi during their joint press conference at Hyderabad House in New Delhi on Friday.
PTI Photo

New Delhi (PTI): In a subtle message to the Trudeau government over its perceived soft-stand on the Khalistan issue, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Friday that those challenging India’s sovereignty cannot be tolerated, even as India and Canada vowed to jointly combat terror threats, including from Sikh groups such as Babbar Khalsa.

After holding extensive talks with his Canadian counterpart Justin Trudeau, Modi, at a joint press event, also asserted that there cannot be any space for those who misuse religion for political motives and promote separatism.

A document on ‘framework for cooperation on countering terrorism and violent extremism’, finalised by India’s National Security Advisor and the National Security and Intelligence Advisor of Canada, was also released after the Modi-Trudeau meet.

“They committed to work together to neutralise the threats emanating from terrorist groups such as al-Qaeda, ISIS, the Haqqani Network, LeT, JeM, Babbar Khalsa International, and the International Sikh Youth Federation,” the document said.

While Babbar Khalsa International is a Sikh militant group based in Pakistan and which reportedly operates in Canada, Germany, the UK and some parts of India, the International Sikh Youth Federation is a proscribed outfit that aims to establish an independent homeland for the Sikhs of India.

Mincing no words, Modi also said, “There should be no space for those misusing faith for political goals and sowing seeds of division. Those who challenge sovereignty, unity and integrity of our countries cannot be tolerated.”

Later, a joint statement said the two leaders reaffirmed the “breadth and scope” of Canada-India relations, based on the fundamental principle of respect for sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of the two countries.

The statement as well as Modi’s remarks come in the backdrop of Canada’s perceived pro-Khalistan approach, criticised by many including Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh.

Trudeau’s maiden India visit has been shrouded by controversies.

After the talks, the two sides inked six pacts to boost cooperation in key areas including energy, information technology, trade, science and technology.

“Recognising that terrorism, violent extremism and radicalisation present acute challenges to global peace, stability and prosperity, the leaders resolved to combat terrorism and violent extremism in all their forms and manifestations,” the joint statement said.

Welcoming the bilateral framework on anti-terror cooperation, the leaders also called for bringing terrorists to justice and holding accountable states sponsoring terrorism, including cross-border terror, in an apparent reference to Pakistan.

“They further emphasised that no country should allow its territory to be used for terrorist and violent extremist activities,” the statement said. The leaders agreed to expand security cooperation through the NSA-level dialogue.

Modi said they reviewed the entire gamut of ties and identified ways to further strengthen them.

“We have decided to strengthen our defence cooperation. Terrorism and extremism are threats to democratic and pluralistic countries like India and Canada. It is important to come together to deal with these forces,” he said at the joint press event.

Trudeau said as part of expanding the bilateral relationship with India, Canada will focus on security, including increased cooperation in the areas of counter-terrorism and peacekeeping among others.

Referring to Trudeau’s visits to various parts of India in last six days, Modi said, “I am confident, Prime Minister Trudeau must have realised enthusiasm and friendship towards Canada in India. He must have realised India’s diversity and liveliness of our democracy.”

The joint statement said Modi and Trudeau welcomed the continuation of uranium exports from Canada for peaceful use of civil nuclear power and agreed to expand the ongoing mutually-beneficial civil nuclear cooperation.

Trudeau also said, “Canada and India share a special friendship, and the agreements that we reached today will grow our middle class, create new opportunities for Canadians and Indians alike, and deepen the bonds.”

The two leaders supported bolstering regional connectivity through transparent development of infrastructure and use of responsible debt financing while ensuring respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, remarks seen as a message to China over its one-belt-one-road project.

Modi and Trudeau also reaffirmed the importance of the freedom of navigation and over-flight throughout the Indo-Pacific region, in accordance with international law, including the rights and jurisdiction of states under UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea), a clear reference to China’s increasing military assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region.

On trade and investment ties, Modi said instructions have been issued to negotiators from both the sides to redouble their efforts to finalise the proposed Bilateral Investment and Promotion Agreement and the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.

Shots fired at Cambie Street and West 48th Avenue in Vancouver

22 February 2018

VANCOUVER Police are investigating a shooting in the area of Cambie Street and West 48^th Avenue tonight. There are no reports of any injuries and officers have determined the incident actually took place at least 45 minutes prior to the first 9-1-1 call at 8:30 p.m.

Investigators from the VPD’s Forensic Identification Unit are processing the scene while other officers continue to investigate what happened.

There is no additional information to share at this time.

Modi gives Trudeau a very warm welcome; special exception made for Trudeau’s kids

22 February 2018

MUCH to the disappointment of anti-Trudeau Canadians, including right-wing journalists, who were cooking up all kinds of negative scenarios for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave Trudeau and his family a very warm welcome at Rashtrapathi Bhawan in New Delhi on Friday morning.

PTI reports:

A special exception was made for Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s children — Xavier, Ella-Grace and Hadrien — to be at the ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhawan here on Friday, senior officials said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had on Thursday said he was looking forward to meeting Trudeau’s children and had posted a picture from his 2015 Canada visit, when he had met Trudeau and Ella-Grace.

“There was a special exception made for the visiting leader’s children to be at the ceremonial reception,” a senior official said.

After the ceremonial reception, Modi tweeted,”Glad that I had the opportunity to meet his family as well”.

Modi also posted his picture with Trudeau and his family at the ceremonial reception.

2018 Surrey Women In Business Award finalists

22 February 2018

Anita Huberman, CEO, Surrey Board of Trade.

ON Thursday, March 8, the Surrey Board of Trade will host the 9th Annual Surrey Women in Business Awards Luncheon. This event recognizes the hard work of Surrey’s business women and their contributions to the community.
The keynote speaker will be Kim Campbell, who rose to international fame as Canada’s first female prime minister and one of the youngest prime ministers worldwide. Since her time as leader, she has traveled to represent Canada and strengthen democracy, security, and women’s leadership around the world. Currently, she is the chairperson for Canada’s Supreme Court Advisory Board. Campbell was recently honoured as a Global Woman of Vision.
Commodore Marta Mulkins, Commander of Naval Reserves for the Royal Canadian Navy, will be the Vignette speaker. Commodore Mulkins is the first woman to command a Maritime Coastal Defence Vessel, serving as Commanding Officer of HMCS Kingston.

Tamara Taggart of CTV News will be the Master of Ceremonies.

Date: Thursday, March 8
Location: Sheraton Vancouver Guildford Hotel (15269 104 Avenue, Surrey)
Time: Registration and lunch – 11 a.m. Program: 12-1:30 p.m.; 1:45-2:15 p.m.
Admission (+GST): $65.00 Members; $80 General Admission or $715.00 for a table of 11

The 2018 Surrey Women in Business Awards finalists

Entrepreneur
Shelina Mawani – Nana’s Kitchen & Hot Sauce Ltd.
Sherry Jacobi – Studiothink
Yvonne Hogenes – Malary’s Fashion Network

Professional
Jas Sangha – Crown Building Supplies Ltd.
Shalini Das – Symbiosis Pediatric Therapy, Inc.
Susan Payment – MNP LLP

Not-for-Profit Leader
Denise Darrell – Sources Community Resources Society
Ingrid Kastens – Pacific Community Resources Society
Sue McIntosh – Seniors Come Share Society

Corporate / Leadership
Elly Morgan – Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU)
Jas Sangha – Crown Building Supplies Ltd.
Rowena Rizzotti – Lark Group

Social Trailblazer
Denise Darrell – Sources Community Resources Society
Elly Morgan – Kwantlen Polytechnic University
Heather Lynch – Options Community Services Society

Indigenous Entrepreneur
Cheryl Morgan – Cheryl’s Trading Post
Jennine Cook – Pure Beauty Ltd.
Roxanne Charles – Roxanne Charles

To register, go to businessinsurrey.com or call 604.581.7130. Seats are limited.

Canada Revenue Agency is launching the 2018 tax filing season

22 February 2018

CRA warns all taxpayers to beware of phone calls or emails that claim to be from them but are not

DIANE Lebouthillier, federal Minister of National Revenue, on Thursday announced that the 2018 tax filing season will officially open on Monday, February 26. The CRA will begin processing income tax and benefit returns filed by Canadians in the way that is most convenient to them.

The majority of Canadians choose to file their returns online. The CRA is making improvements for those who file online with programs such as Auto-fill My Return and NETFILE. For those who want to file themselves, the CRA has a list of certified tax software, some of which is free, that could make tax filing simpler.

The CRA is also processing returns faster. An enhanced service, Express Notice of Assessment (NOA), is available in certified tax software and allows Canadians registered for My Account and online mail to receive and print their NOA right after filing.

This year, the CRA has improved services for paper filers. In fact, approximately two million paper filers have already received their Income Tax and Benefit Guide and forms directly by mail rather than picking them up at Canada Post, Caisse populaire Desjardins, or Service Canada locations.

As previously announced on January 8, the CRA is also launching the File My Return (FMR) service. Over 950,000 eligible individuals with low income or a fixed income that is unchanged year-to-year have been invited to file their income tax and benefit returns simply by answering a series of short questions on a dedicated phone line, beginning February 26. This service will allow all the deductions, benefits and credits to which an individual is entitled, without the need for any calculations or paper forms to fill out.

As Canadians get busy filing their taxes, the CRA is reminding everyone to be cautious of fraudulent communications. The CRA warns all taxpayers to beware of phone calls or emails that claim to be from the CRA but are not. They may be phishing scams, or other fraudulent scams that could result in identity and financial theft.

Lebouthillier said: “With the opening of this year’s tax-filing season, I want to remind Canadians that filing an income tax and benefit return is the key to accessing benefits and credits like the Canada child benefit that I know can be an important source of support for many families. Doing your taxes is now easier, faster and more secure than ever before.”

Quick Facts:

Last year, nearly 90% of the 25 million returns Canadians filed were completed online.
Starting February 26, Canadians can start filing their income tax and benefit returns online.
March 1 is the deadline for contributing to a Registered Retired Savings Plan.
Canadians should have received most of the tax slips, such as T4s, and receipts needed to file a tax return by March.
Most Canadians income tax and benefit returns are due on April 30.
Self-employed individuals have until June 15 to file their return.
From February 26 to April 30, the CRA will be offering extended evening and weekend hours for Individual Tax Enquiries. Over 3,000 telephone agents will be available Monday to Friday (except holidays) from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (local time) weekdays, and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (local time) on Saturdays (except Easter weekend) to serve as many people as possible. Our automated service will remain available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
New this year, individuals can obtain both their account balance and the amount of the last payment made to the CRA through the use of an automated, self-serve Interactive Voice Response system without needing to speak to an agent.
Express NOA allows those using certified tax software as well as tax preparers to print a notice of assessment right after filing.
Canadians can now make in-person payments at any Canada Post outlet using cash or debit card.

Possible lane closures on the Alex Fraser and Port Mann bridges

22 February 2018

Alex Fraser Bridge as viewed from the SkyTrain bridge.
Photo by Rattan Mall

MOTORISTS are advised that temporary lane closures may be necessary over the coming days to ensure safe travel across the Alex Fraser and Port Mann bridges.

The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure is closely monitoring the Alex Fraser and Port Mann bridges because snow, combined with light winds, is in the forecast. Traffic control personnel will be on site and ready to implement lane closures, if needed, for snow clearing from the cable stays.

To check up-to-date travel information, closures and detours, click on the links below before your trip:

DriveBC: www.drivebc.ca
DriveBC on mobile: http://www.drivebc.ca/mobile/

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