Surrey Khalsa Parade launches huge charity food drive

11 April 2014

THE world’s largest Vaisakhi parade, the Surrey Khalsa Day Parade, will be undertaking a significant drive as part of the festivities on April 19.

“The giving of food is at the heart of Khalsa celebrations,” said Moninder Singh, spokesperson for the event organizer, Dashmesh Darbar Gurdwara. “Thousands of Sikh families and businesses celebrate this important day by giving away food along the parade route. This year we are asking the community, local businesses and attendees to the parade to instead consider bringing non-perishable food for the Surrey Food Bank.”

As a non-profit, charitable organization, the Surrey Food Bank operates solely on donations of money and food from individuals, organizations and corporations as well as various fundraising events. The organization’s participation in the Khalsa Day Parade will therefore serve as a prime opportunity to increase their charitable reach to give people a “hand up, not a hand out”.

The Food Bank has identified the most urgently needed items as:
* Large cans of powdered baby formula
* Canned fish / meat (e.g. tuna, ham, turkey)
* Healthy cereal (hot or cold)
* Meals in a tin (e.g. pork n’ beans or stew)
* Canned vegetables
* Canned fruit
* Wholegrain pasta / rice
* Pasta sauces
* Canned and dry soups
* Macaroni and cheese

Those wishing to make donations of non-perishable food can do so from April 13-20 at the Dashmesh Darbar Gurdwara, 115, 12885 85 Avenue in Surrey. A number of collection areas will also be located along the parade route on April 19.

For more information about the Khalsa Day Parade visit: www.surreyvaisakhiparade.ca.
For more information about the Surrey Food Bank, visit http://www.surreyfoodbank.org.

Vaisakhi greetings from Prime Minister, Official Opposition Leader, Premier

11 April 2014

PRIME Minister Stephen Harper has issued the following statement to mark Vaisakhi:

“On this day, Laureen and I offer our warmest wishes to the entire Sikh community in Canada and around the world as they celebrate Vaisakhi.

“Vaisakhi is one of the most important observances of the year for Sikhs. It commemorates the founding of the Khalsa Sikh community in 1699 by Guru Gobind Singh Ji. It also marks the beginning of a new year in many parts of India and around the world. For many, it is a time to gather at gurdwaras to pray, read from the sacred scripture and meditate, as well as celebrate with family and friends at vibrant parades and processions.

“Canada is home to one of the largest Sikh populations outside of India. Today, we reflect on the many contributions of the Sikh community in all areas of endeavour.

“Once again, on behalf of all Canadians, I extend my best wishes to all those celebrating Vaisakhi in Canada and around the world.”

OFFICIAL Opposition leader Tom Mulcair made the following statement:

“On behalf of the New Democratic Party of Canada, I would like to wish all those celebrating across the nation a very happy Vaisakhi.

“This year marks the 315th anniversary of the creation of the Khalsa Panth by Guru Gobind Singh Ji and the mother of the Khalsa Mata Sahib Kaur Ji.

“The Khalsa’s commitment to justice and equality are values cherished by the NDP.

“As many Canadians gather to celebrate throughout this month, New Democrats join you in renewing our commitments to the principles Kirt Karna, Vand Shukna and Seva.

“Once again, from our NDP family to yours, have a wonderful Vaisakhi!

“Subh Noo Vaisakhi Dee Lakh Lakh Vadhaiyee Hove Ji.”

PREMIER Christy Clark issued the following statement:

“Over the coming days, many thousands of British Columbians will join with millions of people around the world in celebration of the holiest day of the Sikh calendar.

“Vaisakhi is an important reminder of the proud and enduring Sikh culture. For over a century, your contributions to British Columbia have enriched us all. Thank you for all you have done, and continue to do, to grow our economy and strengthen our communities.

“I am proud that British Columbia is home to the largest Vaisakhi celebration in North America. I encourage all British Columbians to take part in local celebrations.

“On behalf of all British Columbians, I wish you prosperity, health and happiness as you celebrate with your friends, family and community, and for the coming year.

“Lakh Lakh Vadhai.”

Nesika Awards honour multicultural champions

11 April 2014

THE fifth annual Provincial Nesika Awards proved that multiculturalism is flourishing in British Columbia. More than 400 people attended this flagship event at the Science World OMNIMAX Theatre with Minister Responsible for Multiculturalism Teresa Wat there to present the awards last weekend.

The annual event honours individuals and organizations that promote multiculturalism in B.C. Awards were given in five categories – Individual, Business, Organization, Youth and, new this year, Multicultural Excellence in Government. The new category recognizes the commitment government organizations are making to promote multiculturalism, both internally and externally.

All recipients received a trophy. Recipients in the first four categories also received a $5,000 cheque to be given to a recognized organization of their choice to further advance multiculturalism in B.C.

The provincial Nesika Awards started in 2008 to recognize the people, organizations and businesses whose exceptional work helps bring our diverse cultures together. The Province’s Multicultural Advisory Council organizes and sponsors the awards to honour and celebrate British Columbia’s cultural diversity and Aboriginal heritage.

This year’s recipients:

* Youth: Karen Dhaliwal
Karen Dhaliwal is a fourth-year political science student at the University of British Columbia and the founding president of the UBC Intercultural Alliance. This is a growing network of 14 cultural clubs comprising around 3,000 students on campus. UBCIA facilitates collaboration between clubs, hosts dialogues on intercultural issues, and plans an intercultural fair that brings all of the clubs together under one roof to showcase their cultures. Dhaliwal also reaches beyond the UBCIA network to make interculturalism a key issue to be addressed throughout the university.

* Individual: Ed Eduljee
As president of the Affiliation of Multicultural Society and Service Agencies of BC in the 1980s, Ed Eduljee led a team that successfully petitioned the B.C. government to establish an advisory council on multiculturalism. As an executive with the Multicultural Advisory Council (1988-91), Eduljee chaired the drafting of the province’s multiculturalism policy. As director of Multiculturalism BC (1991-97), he assisted in drafting B.C.’s Multiculturalism Act. He also has served as a volunteer with multicultural, interfaith and community organizations since 1979 and has assisted the Justice Institute in designing and delivering a culturally based conflict resolution course.

* Organization: Community Justice Centre

* Business: CIBC – Diversity Matters Initiatives

* Government: The Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation (MARR) and the BC Public Service Agency (BCPSA)

Nesika (pronounced Ne-SAY-ka) is Chinook for “we, us, our.” It comes from a trade language used by many different Aboriginal linguistic groups along the west coast of North America.

One-quarter of the people in B.C. are self-identified visible minorities, and 5% identify as Aboriginal.

B.C. is the most ethnically diverse province in Canada and welcomes nearly 40,000 new immigrants every year.

Parmeet Matharu, Nimrit Plaha, Sukhjot Bains among five awarded Surrey RCMP Basketball Classic scholarships

11 April 2014

THREE South Asians were among the five athletes who received this year’s Surrey RCMP Basketball Classic scholarships which were awarded following the Surrey RCMP All Star Classic on Friday, April 4 at Enver Creek Secondary.

The scholarships were presented to deserving athletes who participated in this year’s Surrey RCMP Basketball Classic tournament and who are encouraged to continue their academic students and athletic careers.
The recipients:

* Parmeet Matharu (Enver Creek) – Chris Mohan Memorial Scholarship
* Nimrit Plaha (Panorama Ridge) – Surrey School District Scholarship
* Sukhjot Bains (Tamanawis Secondary) – Surrey School District Scholarship
* Nicholas Smith (Lord Tweedsmuir) – Pierlet Memorial Scholarship
* Skylar Sheehan (Semiahmoo Secondary) – Surrey School District Scholarship

“This year’s scholarship winners are role models in our community and serve as a reminder for youth to continue to work hard towards achieving their educational and athletic goals,” says Surrey RCMP Cpl. Bert Paquet. “The Surrey RCMP is very proud of this long standing event which is just one of the many initiatives that we are involved in to help strengthen the bonds between police and youth in our community. Thanks to all those who participated and helped make it another successful event.”

South Asian woman charged with murdering female neighbour in Ottawa

11 April 2014

A South Asian has been charged with murdering her neighbour in south Ottawa.

Gurpreet Ronald, 34, accused of killing Jagtar Gill, 43, in the latter’s living room in January this year, was arrested and charged Tuesday, Ottawa Citizen reported Wednesday.
The accused and the victim were neighbours.

Ronald was employed in OC Transpo, an urban transit service of the City of Ottawa, the same place where Gill’s husband Bhupinderpal worked as a bus driver.

Gill was found dead by her husband and teenage daughter, Dilpreet, when they returned home after shopping for her 17th wedding anniversary.

The killing had shocked the Sikh community in the city, who attended the woman’s funeral in large numbers.

Balraj Dhillon, president of the Ottawa Sikh Society, expressed concern over the brutal murder.

He hoped that the arrest will help the family achieve some closure, the report said.

Gill’s brother-in-law Kulwinder Sidhu felt relieved that someone has been arrested by the police in connection with the case.

“I do not know what will happen. I will be emotional. I cannot think how someone can kill someone. For what? That is what I want to know,” the Daily cited Sidhu as saying.

Sidhu said he had never heard of his sister-in-law having a problem with anyone.

Sources in the police said the motive for the murder was not yet clear. (IANS)

Million Dollar Arm: Help yourself to free tickets for April 17 show in Surrey

11 April 2014

WALT Disney Studios Canada are holding advance screenings of their upcoming film, Million Dollar Arm, throughout the Vancouver area. Million Dollar Arm stars Jon Hamm, who plays a sports agent that travels to India, hoping to find the country’s best young cricket players, to provide an opportunity of a lifetime to – travel to America, train to become professional baseball pitchers, and ultimately get signed to an MBA team. As you can imagine, JB feels completely out of place in India, as do the two young cricketers, Rinku and Dinesh, when they leave their tiny villages and arrive in America.

Million Dollar Arm is actually based on a true story and it’s incredibly heart-warming, funny and touching. It also stars Aasif Mandvi, Suraj Sharma from Life of Pi, and Madhur Mittal from Slumdog Millionaire.
We are offering some free tickets to the movie for the screening in Surrey on Thursday, April 17 at Strawberry Hills at 7 p.m.

It’s on a first-come-first-serve basis, starting 9 a.m. on Monday (April 14). Each person gets a pass for two – you must have ID with your address as only one pass for two will be given for each address. Drop in at our office at #102-9360 – 120 Street, Surrey.

There will also be a screening in Burnaby on Thursday, May 1 at Silver City Metropolis at 7 p.m.

Surrey Board of Trade appoints Arvinder Singh Bubber as honorary director

11 April 2014

THE Surrey Board of Trade this week announced the honorary director appointment of Arvinder Singh Bubber to its Board of Directors for 2014-2015. Bubber will assist with special projects and provide advice on the Surrey Board of Trade’s advocacy initiatives and position papers. The Surrey Board of Trade, in accordance with their bylaws, can appoint up to two directors to their board.

“I am pleased and honored that the Surrey Board of Trade has provided me an Honorary Director’s appointment. I look forward to working together with them in building an economically stronger Surrey, locally and internationally,” said Bubber.

Most recently Kevin Falcon was also appointed as an honorary director.

Previous Surrey Board of Trade honorary directors include Wally Oppal, Jock Finlayson and Michael Levy.

Bubber is curently serving as Chancellor of Kwantlen Polytechnic University and Member of SFU’s India Advisory Council, SFU. He was the winner of the 2010 Surrey Business Person of the Year. Past board associations: vice chair, Asia Pacific Trade Council, Government of BC; director, Fraser Health Authority; chair, board of governors, Kwantlen University College; and member finance and audit committee, Kwantlen University College.

He has mentored several others in the business world, participated in numerous fundraisers, and guided young people through the Junior Achievement Foundation of British Columbia. As the founding president of SPARK Education Foundation, he continually donates his talents to raise funds to promote academic achievement by helping students who are challenged economically or culturally to remain in high school and attain their dream of a post-secondary education.

International Mother Language Day at Surrey Art Centre

11 April 2014

THE Mother Language Lovers of the World Society (MLLWS) in collaboration with other literary and linguistic associations organized the International Mother Language Day (IMLD) on April 6 at Surrey Art Center.

UNESCO adopted a resolution in November 19, 1999, in which February 21 was declared as the International Mother Language Day, to promote awareness of linguistic and cultural diversity. The UN General Assembly in its resolution established 2008 as an International Year of Language.

This date was picked up on the basis of historical event that occurred in Dhaka, Bangladesh, when students of Dhaka University and Medical College raised their voices and held a march to get the Bengali language accepted as one of the national languages of Pakistan. A number of young students were shot dead. Dr. Rafiqul Islam of Greater Vancouver, the founder of MLLWS, was one of those who participated in the march and later joined the “Mukti Vahini” (Liberation Army) to make Bangladesh a free nation.

Dr. Sanzida Habib and Amlan Das Gupta welcomed the guests. There was an opening prayer by Dano Dhorne Kwa-Liquinam from the Kwantlen First Nations community followed by the speech of chief guest June Laitar, Director of FRAFCA, who expressed her concerns about not enough being done to preserve native languages.

President Aminul Islam Mowla said, “Languages are most powerful instruments of preserving and developing our tangible and intangible heritage.”

Dance items were presented by young Bengali girls and a Filipino group.

Speeches, included a homage paid to Dr. Rafiqul Islam, were given by Acharya S. Dwivedi, Abdul Salam, Shreshtha, J. Hakizimana, Dr. S. A. Tulu and Duke Ashrafuzzaman.

(Information by Acharya S.P. Dwivedi)

New Democrats’ call for emergency debate on Temporary Foreign Worker Program rejected by Speaker

11 April 2014

THE Conservative government’s “rampant mismanagement” of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program prompted NDP Employment and Social Development Critic Jinny Sims (Newton-North Delta) to ask for an emergency debate in Parliament on Tuesday.

“Conservatives keep making excuses, tinkering with administrative details and pretending to crack down,” said Sims. “But they aren’t protecting Canadian jobs. Abuse of the program continues, and this government is allowing it.”

The Temporary Foreign Worker Program is supposed to help fill temporary skills shortages in highly specialized areas, or plug short-term labour gaps, such as those in the agricultural sector. But the Conservative government has badly mismanaged it, said Sims. Most recently, they allowed three McDonald’s restaurants in Victoria, B.C., to use the program to hire dozens of temporary foreign workers. At a time when the country’s youth unemployment rate is in the double digits, Canadians are outraged.

“Obviously, the Conservatives are failing to manage this program, and as a result, they are failing Canadians,” said NDP Deputy Critic for Employment and Social Development, Sadia Groguhe.

Despite Sims’ argument that ongoing misuses of the program demonstrate that it is in a state of crisis, the Speaker rejected her request for an emergency debate, saying he does not feel it is an urgent issue.

Ontario’s Peel Police Cram-A-Cruiser for Seva Food Bank

11 April 2014

THE officers of Ontario’s Peel Regional Police, Division 21 “F” Platoon, participated in their annual Cram-A-Cruiser for Vaisakhi, collecting over 2100 lbs of food for the Seva Food Bank’s Malton location.

Held on Sunday, April 5, volunteering officers asked community members to help them ‘cram’ a police cruiser with non-perishable items. Seva received three cruisers full of food delivered throughout the day amounting to more than 2100 lbs.

Organizer Sergeant Bob Nagra volunteers his time to do this event three times a year. “I wanted to do this not only for the whole community but to get involved with my own Sikh community. It is hard to express it but it’s nice to show how we are great contributors to the overall make up of society,” said Nagra.

Other officers who assisted by volunteering their time were Constables Cleland, Ivkovic, Klair, Khatra and Delmar. The event took place in front of a Sobey’s grocery store and was supported by store manager Bali Singh. Officers and volunteers also enjoyed fresh made Punjabi snacks throughout the day thanks to the staff from Pappu’s Sweets who volunteered their own time during the event.

Seva will also be coordinating the delivery of half the food collected by the Peel Police Officers to Open Door Square One. “Seva Food Bank is always looking to partner with other community groups and organizations that are doing great work against poverty and hunger reduction. When we partner up like we did with Sgt Bob and his team, then great things happen just like this,” said board of directors’ member Harb Kahlon.

Seva volunteers Manjeet Singh and Barjinderpal Singh assisted throughout the day collecting and sorting the 2100 lbs of food at the warehouse. Spending a day with the police officers gave some of the seniors volunteers who are interested in a career in the police force a great opportunity to work with and spend time with the officers and ask questions.

The Seva Food Bank provides safe, nutritious and culturally-appropriate food to low- income families living in Mississauga’s L5B, L5C, L4V, L5S, L4T, L5T, and L5P postal codes through our Wolfedale Road and Slough Street, Malton locations. An initiative of Sikhs Serving Canada, a registered charitable not-for-profit organization, their mission is to positively impact local communities by acting on the basic Sikh tenets of sarbat da bhalla (the well being of all) and　seva (selfless service).　