Vancouver second best place in North America for movie makers to live and work

19 January 2018

Gregor Robertson
Photo by Chandra Bodalia

THE City of Vancouver has been ranked as the second best place in North America for movie makers to live and work.
As one of the largest centres for film and television production in North America, the city of Vancouver hosts over 400 productions a year. The industry provides approximately 19,000 jobs per year and pays over $409,000,000 in salaries to Vancouver residents.
“It’s great to hear that Vancouver is once again being recognized as one of the top places to live and work as a movie maker,” said Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson. “Vancouver’s reputation as ‘Hollywood North’ – an international hub for the film and television industry – has only grown in recent years, thanks to our city’s world-class technical and creative talent, robust film infrastructure, strong local economy, and abundant backdrops of natural beauty. With over 42,000 jobs in film and television located right here in B.C.— 80 per cent of which are in the Metro Vancouver area—we look forward to supporting the continued growth of the industry, attracting new productions and welcoming more movie makers to Vancouver.”
The City noted that its Film Office works to help balance the needs of the film industry, the public and its stakeholders, and this collaborative effort, patience and support from residents and business owners helps keep the industry vibrant in Vancouver.
“This is an incredible honour for Vancouver to remain in the top two and to be ranked the best place in Canada. It is a testament to the businesses and residents who let the cameras roll, as well as the work of the City and Park Board,” said Sandi Swanigan, Senior Manager, Film and Special Events.
“What is equally important to recognize is that this award belongs to all of the municipalities in our region who support the film industry. No production films only in Vancouver; they film from Port Moody to Surrey to Squamish. The Vancouver brand is a regional one.”
A bid for the coveted title was submitted to Movie Maker Magazine by the City of Vancouver in recognition of the significant filming that takes place in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland.
The full Movie Maker Magazine article can be found here<https://www.moviemaker.com/archives/best_of/best-places-to-live-and-work-as-a-moviemaker-2018-big-cities/3>.

‘Fiscal plan for British Columbians is built on solid foundation’: Finance Minister James

19 January 2018

MOODY’S has confirmed British Columbia’s Aaa long-term credit rating, citing the province’s strong economy, and the provincial government’s prudent fiscal management and budgeting safeguards, Finance Minister Carole James said on Friday.

“Moody’s confirmation of B.C.’s triple-A credit rating is another indication that our fiscal plan for British Columbians is built on a solid foundation,” James said. “This is positive news, as we prepare to deliver Budget 2018, which will take concrete steps to build a better British Columbia.”

In its rating report, Moody’s said B.C.’s “wide diversification of sectors and markets reduces the vulnerability of the provincial economy from sector-specific or trading partner-specific shocks, including uncertainty with US trade policies including NAFTA negotiations.”

Moody’s points to British Columbia’s “economic strength including strong GDP growth and low unemployment” as core elements in its Aaa rating.

British Columbia is the only province rated triple-A with all three international credit rating agencies: Moody’s, Standard and Poor’s, and Fitch. Fitch confirmed the province’s rating in December 2017. Standard and Poor’s confirmed the rating and superior financial management practices in November 2017. As well, domestic rating agency Dominion Bond Rating Service confirmed B.C.’s AA (high) credit rating in October 2017.

British Columbia’s high credit rating means the Province has lower debt-servicing costs, allowing for more investments that improve services and affordability for British Columbians.

Body found in parked vehicle in East Vancouver is that of Sachdeep Dhoot

18 January 2018

VANCOUVER Police on Friday confirmed that the body found in a parked vehicle on Fairmont Street near Vanness Avenue in East Vancouver on Thursday afternoon is that of Sachdeep Dhoot, 18, who was last seen in the Newton area of Surrey on January 9.

Police were called to the area just after 3 p.m. on January 18 to investigate the discovery of a stolen vehicle. Officers found Dhoot’s body in the trunk of the vehicle.

Police said that based on the information collected so far, this does not appear to be a random murder.

This is Vancouver’s third homicide of 2018.

Surrey RCMP had earlier this week updated their missing person press release by stating that Dhoot was associated to a 4-door blue 2004 Pontiac Sunfire had license plate FE9-84R (see attached stock photo).

Surrey Crime Prevention Society on Friday tweeted: “We are saddened to learn about this tragic death. He was part of one of our programs in 2016. Our condolences to his family!”

Dhoot was described as a South Asian male, 5’9”, 115 lbs., black short hair and brown eyes.

Anyone with information about this murder is asked contact investigators at 604-717-2500 or CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

OPINION: Working with international partners to make life better for people in B.C.

18 January 2018

BY JOHN HORGAN

Premier of B.C

BUILDING a strong, sustainable economy means working with trade partners around the world to expand markets and create good jobs for people in B.C.

We’re making sure B.C. is connected and competitive, and we’re working hard to attract more investment to our province.

That’s why our government is going on a 10-day mission to China, South Korea and Japan to establish new government-to government relationships and let people know that B.C. is open to international business.

B.C.’s trade and investment relationships in Asia are vital to our economic prosperity. These three countries are among our province’s largest trading partners. To open up new opportunities for B.C. businesses in forestry, clean tech, energy, technology, education and tourism, we need to cultivate strong relationships in Asia. That’s exactly what we’re doing.

Instead of looking to one sector to create jobs, we’re working to strengthen traditional industries while supporting small business, tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, technology and innovation.

2018 is the Canada-China Year of Tourism. China is one of our province’s most important growing markets for tourism. B.C. is a world class destination, and we’re committed to promoting our province around grow our tourism industry around the province. And as winter sports grow in popularity in China, we’re putting B.C. on the map as a prime ski destination.

Demand for environmentally sustainable construction is growing in China, and we’re taking every opportunity to promote the environmental benefits of B.C. wood building products and wood frame construction.

We’re also tackling the challenges of climate change and working with international leaders to cut carbon pollution, make buildings more energy efficient, advance renewable energy technology to help spur innovation in the growing low-carbon economy.

Our province is open, inclusive and competitive, and we welcome the movement of people and the advancement of economic and cultural connections. We’re going to make sure that message is heard loud and clear in Asia, and around the world.

This is just part of the important work our government is doing to make life better for people in B.C.

I’m proud to do it on your behalf.

Together, we can create good-paying jobs in every corner of the province, and make sure everyone benefits from B.C.’s economy, resources and environment. Because our economy should work for everyone, not just the few at the top.

7th Annual South Asian Health Expo in Surrey

18 January 2018

THE 7th Annual South Asian Health Wellness Fitness Expo will be taking place on Sunday, January 21 at Sikh Academy in Surrey at 12895 85th Avenue, across from Dashmesh Darbar Gurdwara.

Doors open to the public at 12 p.m. and admission is free for the entire family. The event runs until 4 p.m.

Some of the common health issues South Asians face include diabetes, high blood pressure and weight gain due to a high calorie diet. All age groups in the South Asian community are being affected and it’s time for everyone to take control of their health. The upcoming South Asian Health Expo is a great opportunity to have access to all this valuable information under one roof at the same time.

There will be free health testing available on site: blood sugar testing, hearing testing and eye exams. Be sure to enter the Grand Prize giveaway at registration and one winner will have a chance to win a Fitness Starter kit valued at $2,000 (gym membership, supplement package, free classes, etc.)

Various vendors from the health, wellness and fitness industry will be on site giving out information, and distributing product samples and prize giveaways. Also, the 9th edition of the South Asian Health Magazine will be distributed to the attendees for free.

The Health Expo caters to all age groups within the community who have a variety of interests. Essentially, there is something for everyone. You are never too young or too old to take control of your health. There will be a short Speaker Series around 2 p.m. where local experts will share tips, advice and information about their companies / organizations.

Some of the non-profit agencies that are participating in the SA Health Expo include Canadian Diabetes Association, Heart & Stroke Foundation, Canadian Cancer Society, Jivana Organ Donor Society, Guru Nanak’s Free Kitchen, Global Girl Power, Canadian Mental Health Association, Moving Forward Family Services and South Asian Family Association.

For more information, contact the organizer Rina Gill at 778-688-4973 or rina@thehypeadagency.com

HEALTH: Risk factors for dementia

18 January 2018

BY DR. JASON BAINS

Fraser Health

“Mom is forgetting everything these days. Sometimes it seems like she can’t remember my name. How did this happen?”

MEMORY loss in a patient with dementia can be unsettling and difficult to accept for the patient and their loved ones. As outlined in the first article in this series, dementia is not a normal part of the aging process, and it can lead to many issues with memory, mood, and daily function that are not expected to occur simply because of old age. Generally, dementia is caused by progressive changes in the brain. Fortunately, there are actions we can take to decrease our risk of these changes.

Although age is the biggest risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease, which is seen mainly in people over 65 years of age and in every third or fourth person over the age of 85 years old, researchers have found that the changes in the brain start about 20 to 25 years before symptoms appear. There are numerous risk factors which, if not carefully controlled in middle age (40s to 50s), make dementia more likely to occur in a person’s later years.

It is very important to understand these risk factors and limit them over your lifetime to help lower your risk of developing dementia. They are outlined below along with healthy goals to minimize your risk.

Diabetes

Uncontrolled Type 2 diabetes makes a patient twice as likely to develop dementia.

Goal: Keep blood sugar well controlled, with Hemoglobin A1c less than 7%.

In persons 75 or older, Hemoglobin A1c less than 8% is reasonable.

Blood Pressure

High blood pressure puts strain on the arteries and blood circulation to the brain. This increases the chance of developing dementia.

Goal: Aim for blood pressure less than 140/90, or if diabetic, less than 130/80. Low salt intake and regular exercise can help achieve this, along with medications as advised by your doctor.

Cholesterol

High cholesterol levels also affect the circulation to the brain.

Goal: Keep total cholesterol under 5.2 mmol/L. Keep HDL (“good cholesterol”) above 1 mmol/L, but ideally above 1.5 mmol/L. LDL (“bad cholesterol”) should be kept as low as possible, depending on the other conditions you may have. Ideal level of LDL would be below 2 mmol/L.

Obesity

Obesity, especially in middle age, increases risk of dementia.

Goal: Men should aim for a waist circumference below 102 cm, and women below 88 cm. Ask your doctor to measure your Body Mass Index (BMI). Keeping BMI under 25 is ideal.

Physical Inactivity

A sedentary lifestyle increases risk of many serious illnesses, including dementia.

Goal: Aim for at least 30 minutes of strenuous physical activity per day, at least four days per week. Brisk walking is adequate for older adults.

Alcohol

Excessive alcohol use harms brain cells and increases the risk of dementia.

Goal: Keep alcohol use to occasionally at most. Avoid daily consumption and binge drinking (more than two drinks on one occasion).

Smoking

Smoking increases the risk of several types of dementia.

Goal: Quit smoking. It is never too late, as risk for many conditions will decrease with every smoke-free day after quitting, even if you have smoked for many years.

Depression and Social Isolation

Research shows a link between lack of socialization and depression, and developing dementia. Many patients with early dementia also have depression.

Goal: Speak to your doctor openly about changes in mood as early as possible and get treatment. Socialize with friends often.

Poor Hearing

New research shows that reduced hearing can actually lead to the brain becoming smaller. The brain thrives on continued input from all your senses.

Goal: See your doctor as early as possible if you notice any hearing difficulty.

Cognitive Inactivity / Low Levels of Education

Research has shown a link between more education and lower dementia risk. This suggests that keeping the brain active and stimulated is protective against dementia.

Goal: Treat the brain like a muscle that needs exercise. Read often, and continue to try to learn new things. Engage in active conversation and brain stimulating activities.

Head Injuries

Severe or repeated head injuries, such as those occurring in contact sports or high speed outdoor activities like skiing or biking, can lead to brain changes that may be linked with dementia.

Goal: Always wear a helmet for dangerous activities. Play safely.

Generally keeping happy, social and proactive about your health can help decrease your chances of suffering the challenging effects of dementia in your later years. HE

It is important to speak to your doctor if you suspect dementia in yourself or a loved one. To learn more, contact Baljeet Judge at the South Asian Dementia Helpline at 604-449-5003.

Please watch for future articles in this series that will explore other topics related to dementia.

Vancouver to host a record 33 citywide conventions and events in 2018

18 January 2018

IN 2018, Vancouver will welcome 33 citywide conventions and events, the highest number the city has ever hosted in a single year.
Over the course of 2018, these 33 events will bring over 100,000 out-of-town delegates to Vancouver where they will inject money into the local economy through hotel stays, dining, attractions visits, shopping, transit and more.
In total, Vancouver’s meetings and conventions industry supports more than 6,000 jobs and results in over $300 million annually in director visitor spending and $500 million in economic impact for the Vancouver economy.
Vancouver companies and organizations also benefit as it gives them the opportunity to connect with their worldwide industry peers, and puts their companies, and their fields, in a national or international arena.
The tourism industry defines a “citywide” as a convention or event that will attract 1,000 or more out-of-town attendees, uses the Vancouver Convention Centre, and at least three downtown convention hotels.
In 2017, Vancouver welcomed 28 citywides, which brought 63,000 visitors to the city. Tourism Vancouver, the Vancouver Convention Centre and other partners work together to market, and sell, Vancouver as a meeting, convention and event destination.
The strong showing in 2018 is in part driven by an influx of nature and sustainability-themed conferences taking place at the award-winning Vancouver Convention Centre, the world’s first double LEED Platinum convention centre. Vancouver will welcome GLOBE in March (estimated 3,900 out-of-town attendees and 10,000 total), Sustainable Brands in June (estimated 2,000 out-of-town / total attendees), the American Society of Animal Science in July (estimated 4,500 out-of-town attendees and 5,000 total), the International Ornithological Congress in August (estimated 1,800 out-of-town / total attendees), and the Entomological Society of America in November (estimated 2,000 out-of-town / total attendees).
Other high-profile convention groups meeting in Vancouver in 2018 include the American Bar Association in February (estimated 4,000 out-of-town / total attendees); the TED Conference, celebrating it’s 5th anniversary in Vancouver in April (estimated 1,800 out-of-town / total attendees); and SIGGRAPH, returning to Vancouver for the third time in August (estimated 13,000 out-of-town attendees and 14,000 total).
Among the citywide events are the 2018 Canadian Tire National Skating Championships which just wrapped up in January (estimated 3,500 out-of-town attendees), HSBC Canada Sevens – World Rugby Sevens Series at BC Place in March (estimated 3,230 out-of-town attendees), and the internationally recognized BMO Vancouver Marathon in May (estimated 5,000 out-of-town attendees).
“Vancouver’s unique mix of vibrant urban culture, modern infrastructure, diverse culinary experiences and incredible natural beauty contribute to the city’s reputation as a world-class travel and meeting destination,” said Lisa Beare, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture. “A busy convention year is also good news for the tourism and hospitality industries. This level of success is due to the hard work and dedication of the Vancouver Convention Centre, Tourism Vancouver and partners.”
“It’s exciting to see more evidence of Vancouver’s success as a major international destination for conventions and events,” said Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson. “This year’s record numbers are a big win for our city’s local economy, and for all of the dedicated professionals who are working hard to put Vancouver on the industry map. We look forward to welcoming visitors from around the world to enjoy our city’s natural beauty, along with the world-class talent and meeting facilities we have to offer.”
“Vancouver’s global reputation as a place to do business, to gather, to be inspired, and to hold major events and conferences is moving from strength to strength,” said Ty Speer, President and CEO, Tourism Vancouver. “Not only has Vancouver demonstrated that we have the experience, the world-leading venues and infrastructure to execute these large, complex, and high-profile events; our city has a diverse business environment and spectacular natural setting which provide a compelling backdrop to any event.”
“We are proud of our continued success in attracting such an impressive roster of conventions and meetings to the Convention Centre and to welcome back Canada Sevens to BC Place,” said Ken Cretney, President and CEO, BC Pavilion Corporation. “Our success in competing with top cities from around the world to bring these events to Vancouver, BC speaks to the remarkable reputations of our world-class facilities, destination and hospitality and event community.”
Vancouver is currently booking conventions as far away as 2027, and beyond. To view the full list upcoming citywide conventions, visit www.tourismvancouver.com/meetings/citywide-meetings.

Lovleen Gill of Amar Karma Organ Donation Society awarded Ontario Medal for Good Citizenship

18 January 2018

Loveleen Gill is seen third from left in the back row.
Photo submitted

LOVELEEN Gill has been awarded the Ontario Medal for Good Citizenship.

Her citation reads: “Loveen Gill, of Mississauga, who founded the Amar Karma Organ Donation Society, the first organization in Canada to raise awareness of organ and tissue donation in the South Asian community. Her efforts have contributed to a significant growth of registered donors in the Brampton area.”

Gill was one of 11 people who received the award for creating long-lasting impact in their communities.

Ontario Lieutenant Governor, Elizabeth Dowdeswell, said: “These eleven individuals have improved the lives of people in their communities through years of selfless effort. Their compassion stands as an inspiration to us all and is a testament to the value of hard work and dedication.”

Ontario’s Minister of Citizenship and Immigration, Laura Albanese, added: “These individuals have made a difference in communities across the province through their commitment to helping others. Their achievements should instill pride in us all.”

Created in 1973, the Ontario Medal for Good Citizenship is the second-highest civilian honour given by the province, next to the Order of Ontario.

Gill’s organization said in a statement: “She has spent the last 10 years breaking down taboos surrounding organ and tissue donation and has single-handedly sparked a groundswell of support. She now has a volunteer team of over 90 youths, and has launched a campaign to highlight umbilical cord blood donation after donating her baby’s umbilical cord blood in 2015.”

It added: “Loveen received ‘Leading Women Building Communities’ award in 2016 from Province of Ontario for her leadership in empowering women, for educating people of South Asian culture against gender discrimination.”

B.C. Court of Appeal hears arguments in extradition case of Malkit Sidhu and Surjit Badesha to India

18 January 2018

Malkit Kaur Sidhu and Surjit Singh Badesha.
Photo courtesy of CBC

VANCOUVER defence lawyer Michael Klein had told The VOICE last week that the lawyers for B.C. residents Malkit Kaur Sidhu and Surjit Singh Badesha, who face charges in India in connection with the 2000 brutal slaying of Jaswinder (Jassi) Sidhu, 25, in India’s Punjab state, are seeking disclosure about any documentation that will disclose to them why and how their clients were removed from their jails to be presumably sent on their way to India.

Klein said that this was to advance an argument earlier last year that there was an abuse of process and that the extradition surrender should be stayed.

This week, in B.C. Court of Appeal, Klein said that a plan had been put in place to remove Badesha and Sidhu, Jassi’s uncle and mother, respectively, from pretrial custody in B.C. to the tarmac at Toronto’s Pearson International Airport on September 20 so that Indian police could whisk them off to India once Justice Minister Jody Wilson-Raybould gave her final judgment. This would have denied Badesha and Sidhu any further legal options, CBC reported.

But government lawyer Deborah Strachan told the court: “The real complaint here is whether that is correct in law — that the minister could take steps to surrender immediately upon a decision being made, and thereby preclude an opportunity for judicial review.”

She added: “”It will be our argument that the minister takes the view that the applicants are not allowed another period of 30 days for judicial review.”

CBC reported that when the judges asked if the government deliberately tried to deprive the two of the right to counsel, Strachan said: “The minister’s position is that the applicants were not afforded the opportunity to contact counsel and that there was no intention to take positive steps to enable them to do that.”

Strachan opposed the application for disclosure.

Marrisa Shen homicide investigation: new website and new video

18 January 2018

THE Integrated Homicide Investigation Team on Thursday introduced a website (marrisashen.org) that will house videos, updates and previously published information into the Marrisa Shen homicide investigation. The website includes the release of new video believed to be the last-known time Shen was seen.

The standalone website comes six months after Shen was first reported missing by her family on July 18, 2017. Burnaby RCMP immediately initiated a missing person investigation and at approximately 1:10 a.m. on July 19, Shen was located dead in the south east side of Central Park. Her death was later determined to be a homicide and a random act.

“IHIT recognizes there is a high-degree of public interest in the homicide of Miss Shen,” IHIT Cpl. Frank Jang said. “Marrisa was a 13-year-old teenager who was about to enter high school prior to her tragic death. We are all invested in this case and in an effort to maintain and enhance public interest, investigators wanted a single place where the public can easily access information and ongoing updates in this investigation.”

IHIT continues to work closely with the Burnaby RCMP. “Our investigators are working tirelessly and continue to conduct door-to-door canvassing of the neighbourhoods surrounding Burnaby’s Central Park,” said Jang.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the IHIT Information Line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448), or by email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca. Should you wish to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers by phone at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

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