Priyanka Chopra receives Mother Teresa Memorial award

13 December 2017

Mumbai (PTI): Bollywood actor Priyanka Chopra has been honoured with this year’s Mother Teresa Memorial award for social justice.

Priyanka received the award for her contribution towards lending her support to social causes, such as her recent visit to Syria, where she met and interacted with refugee children.

The actor is also UNICEF’s Goodwill Ambassador and is known for supporting various philanthropic activities.

The 35-year-old star’s mother, Madhu Chopra, received the award on her behalf.

“I humbly accept the award on her behalf. As a mother, I am immensely proud to have a child who is so compassionate and has so much kindness in her. She exemplifies the fact the more you give the more you get. Even as a child, she was influenced by Mother Teresa and has been supporting Prem Niwas in Bareilly.

“It is justifiable for her to receive this honourable award and I am immensely proud of her. I’m thankful and I’m sure she is humbled that her efforts have been recognised by the foundation that believes in helping the needy and supporting the deprived and raising funds for those who are impoverished,” Madhu said in a statement.

In the past famous personalities such as Kiran Bedi, Anna Hazare, Oscar Fernandes, Sudha Murty, Malala Yousafzai, Sushmita Sen and Bilquis Bano Edhi have been honoured with the award.

Fawad was approached for Saif’s role in ‘Kaalakaandi’: Dir

13 December 2017

Mumbai (PTI): Director Akshat Verma says Saif Ali Khan was the first choice for his directorial venture “Kaalakaandi” but at one point the makers did approach Fawad Khan to play the same part.

Akshat has revealed that when the film was with UTV, they were in talks with Fawad to play the role, which is now being played by Saif.

“Fawad was supposed to be one of the actors we talked to when the project was with UTV. It was around 2013… He was going to play the role Saif plays. But ultimately everything happens for a reason and for the best. No one could have done the role better than Saif,” Akshat says in an interview with PTI.

“Kaalakaandi” chronicles the story of six characters from different worlds of Mumbai in a span of 12 hours and how the lives of complete strangers intersect.

Interestingly, Akshat says his “instinct for Saif was right” as he had written the film initially keeping him in mind.

“When I first messaged Saif, I didn’t get a reply from him. When I finally met him, it was almost two years to the date I had texted him, and I still have the message saved.

“This time, he had read the script because Ashi (Dua, one of the producers) had sent it to him. He said ‘ok we are on’ in five minutes. So the time period was, on one hand two years and on the other, just five minutes to get Saif,” he adds.

Akshat dived into the world of “Kaalakaandi” right after his big hit “Delhi Belly”, which he had written. He took nearly a year to write the script of “Kaalakaandi” but the project went through “a mad roller coaster ride.”

“It is common knowledge that the film was earlier with UTV, we were about to shoot but four days before that the project was shut down. After that things fell apart, we had to put it together again. Everything takes time,” he said.

Both “Delhi Belly” and “Kaalakaandi” fall in the genre of dark comedy, which is rarely explored in Bollywood.

When asked is it because his scripts are so unconventional that people don’t really understand his language and vision, Akshat says, “Often people say they enjoy the script, love it, but (it is) not enough to make it as a film. It is like breaking up with someone by saying ‘I love you but not enough to marry you.'”

But can the waiting period be frustrating and the director says, “it is the most disappointing part”.

“You feel that the time seems to move in six months chunk. Suddenly you look up and the year has gone by, it seems you haven’t done anything. You have been trying, waiting, they (makers) read your script, get back to you, six months have gone by and then they say ‘no,'” he said.

In this scenario–where a project is being delayed and people are not willing to back your vision– Akshat says the only way to keep himself motivated was by being “stubborn.”

Produced by Cinestaan Film Company and Ashi Dua Sara of Flying Unicorn, the film stars Saif along with Deepak Dobriyal, Vijay Raaz, Kunaal Roy Kapoor, Sobhita Dhulipala, Akshay Oberoi, Isha Talwar, Shenaz Treasury, Shivam Patil, Amyra Dastur and Neil Bhoopalam.

“Kaalakaandi” is scheduled to release on January 12 next year.

Surrey RCMP trying to identify suspects in Hockey Shop Source for Sports arson

13 December 2017

SURREY RCMP are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying two alleged arson suspects from a commercial building fire that occurred this past September in the Surrey City Centre area.
On September 23, the Hockey Shop Source for Sports located at 10280 City Parkway was destroyed by fire.
Surrey RCMP’s Serious Crime Unit’s officers have obtained surveillance video of two suspects alleged to be involved in this arson (see attached photos). From the photos, the suspects appear to be a male dressed in all red and carrying a back pack and a female wearing dark clothing.
“This fire destroyed a prominent business in the Surrey City Centre area,” said Cpl. Scotty Schumann on Wednesday. “Although there were no injuries to report, this crime has greatly affected the hockey community here in Surrey and across the Lower Mainland. If you recognize either of these two suspects, investigators want to hear from you right away.”
Anyone with more information is asked to contact the Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502 and quote file #2017-135528.
If you wish to make an anonymous report, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or www.solvecrime.ca.

Violence between two groups of young South Asians in Brampton under investigation

13 December 2017

FRIDAY (December 15) UPDATE:

Gurpreet Singh, Karanbir Singh, Harbir Singh arrested in Brampton brawl

http://7zi.e17.mywebsitetransfer.com/gurpreet-karanbir-brampton/

PEEL Regional Police have launched an investigation into a vicious fight between two groups of young South Asian males armed with two-by-fours at the plaza on McLaughlin Road and Steeles Avenue in the City of Brampton on Sunday (December 10).

Police spokesperson Constable Lori Murphy told The VOICE over the phone that the 22 Division Criminal Investigation Bureau is handling the case.

Murphy said: “We got a call for an assault taking place in the area of McLaughlin Road and Steeles Avenue in the City of Brampton for a group of males fighting with sticks at 10:46 p.m. on Sunday.”

She added: “As a result of that incident, we got reports of one 19-year-old male having to attend a local hospital, receiving treatment and being released shortly thereafter in relation to some minor injuries.”

She said that at this time no charges have been laid and no one is in custody in relation to this incident.

Police are encouraging anyone who may have any further information about what had taken place there to contact the 22 Division Criminal Investigation Bureau at (905) 453–2121, ext. 2233. Information may also be left anonymously by calling Peel Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), or by visiting www.peelcrimestoppers.ca, or by sending a text message to CRIMES (274637) with the word “PEEL” and then your tip.

A video was posted on Youtube. One media report alleges that the plaza where the fight took place – across from Sheridan College’s Davis Campus – has been a hot spot for crime in Brampton.

‘When you call, we respond,’ say Delta Police as drivers charged for impaired driving

13 December 2017

DELTA Police are highlighting two examples that they say demonstrate that when members of the public call, they respond, adding that “working together to remove impaired drivers from our streets is making a difference.”

On Tuesday night, Delta Police responded to a report of a hit and run in the 11800-block of 82nd Avenue. Police located the suspect vehicle a short distance away, arresting the female driver that now faces impaired driving charges.

In another case, in the early hours of Wednesday, patrol officers responded to a report of a possible impaired driver in the 10800-block of 72nd Avenue. Police located the vehicle and issued the driver a 90-day driving prohibition.

The Delta Police say that they are continuing to make road safety a priority and will be conducting counterattack roadblocks over the next several weeks through the Holiday Season.

“If you choose to consume liquor at a party or special holiday gathering, please make prior arrangements for your transportation to and from the event. A temporary lapse in judgement can have life changing consequences,” police say.

ALL-NEW 2018 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE CROSS ARRIVES

12 December 2017

Mississauga, ON. – With a reputation of sporty driving and advanced technology, the Mitsubishi Eclipse sports car was one of company’s best-selling and iconic vehicles ever. Now, the Eclipse moniker is making its comeback with the same reputation for driving dynamics and technology in the form of a compact Crossover Utility Vehicle, the all-new 2018 Eclipse Cross. The Eclipse Cross is a fusion of sharp coupe looks and dynamic SUV mobility with signature Mitsubishi Motors styling, technology and performance.

The Eclipse Cross will join the RVR and Outlander to form a formidable CUV lineup for Mitsubishi Motors. The Eclipse Cross contains many all-new features including a 1.5-litre turbo-charged engine, dual-pane, power-sliding panoramic roof, 7-inch thin-type Smartphone link Display Audio with touchpad controller , Head-Up Display (HUD) and heated rear seats.

Another new interior feature for the Eclipse Cross is a full-colour Head-Up Display (HUD) that provides the driver with real-time vehicle information. The HUD system is standard on the GT price line. Eclipse Cross comes standard with a 1.5-litre direct-injection turbo-charged power plant that offers a compelling combination of drivability, performance and efficiency. This new turbo technology provides both strong torque and better fuel efficiency. The engine produces 152 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 184 lb-ft torque at 3,500 rpm. For Canada, all Eclipse Cross price lines are equipped with Mitsubishi Motors’ proprietary, advanced S-AWC (Super All-Wheel Control) system, which enhances both straight-line stability and cornering performance by precisely controlling the torque supplied to each of the four wheels. All four Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross price lines feature Super All-Wheel Control as standard, including: the base ES, SE, SE Tech package and GT.

With a starting MSRP of $27,798, the Eclipse Cross ES priceline is well-equipped with such standard features as: Heated power side view mirrors with integrated LED indicator lamps, rear spoiler, 18-inch alloy wheels, colour multi-information display screen, high-contrast speedometer and odometer, Bluetooth wireless technology, 7-inch thin-type Smartphone link Display Audio system with Android AutoTM and Apple CarPlay compatibility, steering wheel mounted audio, cruise and phone controls, rearview camera, automatic climate control, power door locks (and windows) with remote keyless entry and panic alarm, seven airbags and anti-theft alarm.

Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is backed by the best warranty in the world: 10 years or 160,000 km limited powertrain warranty and a five years or 100,000 km limited new vehicle warranty along with five years, unlimited mileage roadside assistance.

The Eclipse Cross will arrive in Canadian dealerships in March 2018. For more information please visit www.mitsubishi-motors-pr.ca.

New Lincoln Nautilus Pairs Powerful Performance with Driver-Assist Technologies

12 December 2017

LOS ANGELES– The Lincoln Motor Company introduces the new Lincoln Nautilus, a midsize luxury SUV delivering a powerful turbocharged engine range and a suite of advanced technologies designed to give drivers greater confidence on the road.

Nautilus – the successor to Lincoln MKX – joins the recently unveiled 2019 MKC, the elegant Continental, the all-new Navigator, and the stylish MKZ for a lineup of vehicles instantly recognizable as Lincoln.

“With the introduction of Nautilus, Lincoln has a strong, distinctive portfolio with a common and recognizable identity,” says Lincoln President Kumar Galhotra. “We’re excited to add Nautilus to our Lincoln family of luxury SUVs, along with a new name that better reflects the ideas and attitudes of Lincoln clients.”

Lincoln’s midsize SUV continues to attract new clients to the brand. Tasteful design, exceptional craftsmanship and room for up to five passengers make it a popular choice for clients in the market for a luxury crossover vehicle.

The distinctive design of Lincoln Nautilus aligns it with the rest of the Lincoln family, presenting a strong, bold signature grille. The midsize utility vehicle maintains its unique, sleek shape, offering a harmonious aesthetic and aerodynamic efficiency. A new wheel selection allows clients to order a Lincoln Nautilus to suit their personal style.

Upon approach, Lincoln Nautilus welcomes clients with Lincoln Embrace lighting, first from the outside, then from the cabin. The new cabin is thoughtfully designed, providing a spacious, modern interior that keeps the focus on comfort and serves as a sanctuary from the outside world. Available Ultra Comfort seats can be adjusted up to 22 ways for personalized comfort, providing lumbar massage designed to reduce fatigue. Developed with input from orthopedic surgeons, this feature is especially beneficial on long trips or while waiting in traffic. Heated and cooled seats are available on the Reserve model. Available 13-speaker or 19-speaker Revel® audio systems offer the ultimate sound experience to add to the soothing environment.

A standard 245-horsepower 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine is efficient and smooth in operation. Both engines include standard Auto Start-Stop capability, plus an eight-speed transmission.

Ease of ownership is enabled through the Lincoln Way™ app. Lincoln Way allows clients to start, lock, unlock and locate their new Nautilus, as well as schedule remote starts to allow the vehicle to heat or cool to comfortable levels. Owners can use the app to monitor fuel levels, and check tire pressures and battery status.

The new 2019 Lincoln Nautilus will be available at Lincoln dealers in the spring of 2018.

Vancouver Mayor and Council approve 2018 budget; total property tax increase is 4.24 per cent

12 December 2017

Gregor Robertson
Photo by Sukhwant Singh Dhillon

The total property tax increase for 2018 is 4.24 per cent, which for a median single family home (assessed at $1.823 million) amounts to an extra $94 per year and $32 per year for a median strata unit (assessed at $609,000)

VANCOUVER City Council on Tuesday approved a $1.407 billion operating budget and $426.4 million capital budget for 2018, saying they were reinforcing the need to maintain and improve core services while at the same time making investments aligned with key priorities to support the future needs of a growing and changing city.

Highlights of the investments in the 2018 Budget include:
* A number of initiatives designed to bring more affordable housing to market sooner, including planning for growth, implementation of the Empty Homes Tax and short-term rental program, and additional staffing to reduce wait times for development permits including faster approvals for affordable housing projects
* Additional support for the homeless, including more access to winter shelters, warming centres and temporary modular homes
* Additional funding to respond to the escalating opioid crisis
* Increased funding for childcare, almost double the commitment in 2017
* More police officers and civilian staff to help address increasing numbers of service calls
* Engineering utilities and transportation investments including for water, sewer and solid waste, major and local road improvements and improvements for snow response readiness
“This year’s budget maintains the essential services that residents and businesses rely on in their day-to-day lives, while also expanding investments to address our city’s changing needs,” said Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson.
“We’re taking bold action to get more urgently needed affordable housing built, including adding more temporary modular, social and rental housing throughout Vancouver and adding staff to reduce the time it takes to get permits for new housing and renovations. We’ve added resources to improve public safety and to continue to tackle the opioid and homelessness crises. We’ll maintain and upgrade core public infrastructure, like streets and public facilities, and build more vibrant communities through arts and culture grants and significantly expanding the number of childcare spaces we added last year. These investments will ensure that we improve Vancouver’s livability for all of our residents.”
Council also approved an additional tax increase of 0.34 per cent above the 3.9 per cent proposed in the draft budget. The additional funding was earmarked for the following: additional funding for implementation of the Council-approved Housing Vancouver strategy; support for priority actions regarding Historical Discrimination Against Chinese People in Vancouver, including the Chinatown UNESCO bid; additional social grants; and an added investment to help reduce development permit wait times.
The total property tax increase for 2018 is 4.24 per cent, which for a median single family home (assessed at $1.823 million) amounts to an extra $94 per year and $32 per year for a median strata unit (assessed at $609,000).
Historically (2013-2017), Vancouver has had one of the lowest average property tax increases among Metro Vancouver municipalities at 2.3 per cent.

Priority investments based on public feedback

The City consulted with residents and businesses throughout the fall, and heard back about their most important issues and preferences for City spending. That input was used to identify the following priorities for investment in the 2018 budget year and beyond:
* Actions to address housing supply, affordability and critical social issues
* Improve service and maintain and upgrade streets, utilities and facilities
* Continue to build vibrant communities
* Increase investments in public safetyMore details about the 2018 budget<http://vancouver.ca/your-government/annual-budget.aspx> are posted on the City’s website.

Conservatives call for action on human organ trafficking

12 December 2017

SENATOR Salma Ataullahjan and Garnett Genuis, Conservative deputy critic for foreign affairs, spoke on Tuesday about Private Members’ legislation that would help eliminate Canadian demand for human organ harvesting.

Bill S-240, introduced in the Senate, and Bill C-340, introduced in the House of Commons, would allow for penal sanctions to be imposed on persons, either inside or outside Canada, who are knowingly involved in the trade, harvesting, or medical transportation of human organs without donor consent.

“Organ trafficking targets those most impoverished and vulnerable and is a clear violation of the principles of justice, dignity and respect for human rights. This bicameral effort aims to ensure that this important matter is brought to the attention of Canadians and builds on previous bipartisan attempts, most notably by former Member of Parliament and human rights leader Irwin Cotler,” said Ataullahjan.

There is currently no law in Canada that bans Canadians from taking part in the act of travelling abroad and purchasing organs for transplant and returning back to Canada. Those most vulnerable to organ trafficking include individuals living in poverty in developed countries and political prisoners.

“The practice of forced organ harvesting abroad is an issue that has been raised by my office on many occasions. With legislation tabled in both chambers, we have a unique opportunity to stand together and prioritize human rights,” said Genuis.

Peel Regional Police seeking public’s help in sexual assault by South Asian suspect

12 December 2017

INVESTIGATORS from Peel Regional Police’s 22 Division Criminal Investigation Bureau are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a South Asian suspect involved in a sexual assault investigation.

On Friday September 29, at approximately 8:30 p.m., the female victim, a York University student, entered a bus in the area of Keele Street and Pond Road in the City of Toronto. The victim sat beside a male at the rear of the bus and the male quickly began to make sexual advances towards the victim.

The victim was sexually assaulted on two different occasions by the suspect while in the bus.The victim relocated to the front of the bus and requested the driver to contact police. The suspect exited the bus at Queen street and Kennedy Road in the City of Brampton, and began walking eastbound on Queen Street.

The suspect is a male South Asian, mid 20s, 5’10”, medium build, with a dark trimmed beard. The suspect was wearing a blue baseball hat, grey sweater and blue jeans, and was carrying a blue backpack.

Anyone with information is asked to call investigators at 22 Criminal Investigation Bureau Unit at (905) 453–2121, ext. 2233. Information may also be left anonymously by calling Peel Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), or by visiting www.peelcrimestoppers.ca, or by sending a text message to CRIMES (274637) with the word “PEEL” and then your tip.

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