BRAMPTON residents, Jaspreet and Gurbhej Sran went from being new parents to also being new millionaires in the span of three weeks.
The couple, who rarely play the lottery, purchased a Lotto 6/49 ticket that won them a Free Play. It was that Free Play that won the Srans the $18,799,377.90 jackpot from the March 22 draw.
They had wide smiles as they recalled the exact moment of the win while at the OLG Prize Centre in Toronto to claim their prize. Jaspreet had an unexplainable sensation that they were going to win something when she accompanied Gurbhej to check the ticket.
“I had a feeling we should go to the store and check our ticket,” said Jaspreet. “The self-checker said ‘Big Winner, see retailer,’ so we thought maybe we’d won $10,000. We were so surprised to find out it was much, much more!”
The couple migrated to Canada from the state of Punjab, India three and a half years ago.
Gurbhej works as a truck driver while Jaspreet is studying to become an accountant.
Cradling their one-week old baby, the sleep-starved new parents said they haven’t had much time to plot out all their future plans, but they have some priorities. They want to bring their parents to Canada to share in their joy and to help with the baby. With Jaspreet’s background in finance, investing is very important in order to secure the baby’s future. Buying a new home is also on their wish list. Gurbhej plans to buy his dream truck and continue working. They are both keen to help those less fortunate in Canada and in India as well.
THE Vancouver Police Soccer and Service Club this week held the 31st anniversary of the Paul Sanghera High School Indoor Soccer Tournament that honours a fallen member who tragically lost his life in a fatal car crash on January 8, 1982.
Windermere Secondary School hosted eight Vancouver high school soccer teams that played in a two-day, indoor soccer tournament where top players were rewarded with $3,500 in scholarships for their post-secondary education. The club is supported by the Vancouver Police Foundation and Masonic Lodges of the Lower Mainland.
Sir Winston Churchill Secondary School were the winners, with David Thompson Secondary School the runners-up.
ON January 8, 1982, Constable Paul Sanghera and his partner were working together on patrol in the area of East Vancouver known as District Three. It had snowed that night and a blanket of snow covered the roads, making them slippery and treacherous to drive.
At 1 a.m. they stopped to investigate an abandoned car at the side of the road at East 57th and Argyle Street. They both got out of their marked police car to examine the abandoned vehicle and to look for the registration papers in the glove box. They stood beside the abandoned vehicle and decided that the other constable would return to their police vehicle and call for a tow truck. As the other constable radioed in requesting a tow truck Sanghera remained beside the abandoned vehicle. Without any warning, a pickup truck suddenly came around the corner and also lost control on the icy street. The truck struck the abandoned vehicle and Sanghera. He died at the scene.
The driver was found not at fault, there were no charges and the accident was blamed on the weather conditions.
Sanghera grew up in Richmond and went to Richmond High School. He was remembered as a tenacious and keen athlete who enjoyed soccer and played on the Vancouver Police soccer team.
His death is commemorated every year at the Paul Sanghera Soccer Tournament in April.
KEN Hahn, Chair, Kwantlen Polytechnic University Foundation, in an email to The VOICE this week said that funds from foundation were not used to pay KPU executives.
Hahn said: “You may be aware of recent media reports about questions raised by NDP Advanced Education Critic David Eby about whether funds from the Kwantlen Polytechnic University Foundation were used to pay KPU executives. I want to reassure you that the answer to that question is no and allegations to the contrary are completely false.
“As you are likely aware, the KPU Foundation was established as an independent legal entity in 2000, with the mission of raising funds to create quality life-long learning opportunities for KPU students to achieve personal, social and career success. We are governed by a volunteer board of directors who take the upmost pride in assuring funds donated to the Foundation are used for the purpose that you made your contribution.
“Each year the Foundation is independently audited by a professional accounting firm, and in recent years KPMG has performed this service. Our financial statements can be found at kpu.ca/foundation, and within these you will see the Foundation pays no salaries. Additionally, you can visit the Canada Revenue Agency Charities listings for a full outline of KPU Foundation filings: www.cra-arc.gc.ca/charitiesandgiving. As you will note, our administration costs are 0% and our fundraising costs (for last year) were 1% or $17,749 (the expenses of our annual golf tournament that raises funds for KPU athletes).
“It is disappointing that Mr. Eby did not contact the KPU Foundation to discuss his concerns. Accordingly, I have reached out to Mr. Eby to ensure that he is aware of the facts. I took this step to protect the integrity of our organization, which we all know does so much good for students at KPU. We cherish our donors and the commitment you make to helping students. It is because of you, our donors, that many students who may not have been able to pursue higher education have been given this opportunity.”
VAISAKHI, a religious event commemorating the birth of the Khalsa in 1699, plays a key role in our society here in the Lower Mainland with its large Sikh population. It forges bonds with mainstream society by fostering a greater understanding, tolerance and acceptance of Sikhism and is one patch of the quilt that characterizes our diverse society here in British Columbia.
This year, once again hundreds of thousands are expected to attend the popular Khalsa Day parade in Surrey on April 19, which is now the largest event in North America. In order to inform, clarify and solicit community input, the organizers of the event held a press conference this week in Surrey. On panel were the members of the Surrey RCMP Inspector Garry Begg and Officer-in-Charge of Media Relations and Special Events Sergeant Dale Carr, and Dashmesh Darbar Gurdwara’s Gian Singh Gill, President, Pary Dulai, organizer and committee member, and Satinder Pal Gill, long time committee member (see photo).
The organizers provided details of the Khalsa Day Parade, including security arrangements, their concern for the environment and focus on having the garbage recycled. This year as well, with over 250,000 expected to attend, they have organized a food drive for the needy.
On the question regarding rules and regulation around displays of violent images depicting Sikh history and where they draw the boundary around what is constituted as a violent image and how they navigate those decisions, Begg said: “It is not clear-cut in law, except that we have been very cooperative with the executive and it is not really the police that make the final decision. We provide a set of ground rules including some sections of the Criminal Code which relate to more than anything else – advocating for genocide, advocating violence against a particular group – that is against the law. Many of the depictions as you refer to are historical events … It is a cooperative process and we work with the executive of the temple and it’s more a matter of persuasion than it is a matter of the application of law.”
He added: “Although we do have … each person responsible with a float, sign a document indicating clearly that they agree that the purpose of the parade is cultural and religious and that they agree that nothing they display on the float will contravene any section of the Criminal Code. … I, like you, have been around for eight years of the parade and it has been much to the credit of the executive’s desire to ensure that the entire event remains a religious, cultural event and a celebration rather than an opportunity for political statements or grandstanding or anything like that.”
A reporter wanted to know what was the need to highlight a separate homeland for Sikhs at this event because it always creates a controversy when Dulai had mentioned that there would be other events pertaining to this subject.
Dulai said: “I think it has been four years now that we have not had any controversy, but I think when you are celebrating the birth … the trials and tribulations that the Sikhs have been through including 1984, they should not be forgotten and I think doing it in the way that it has been done in the last four years, there has not been an issue because everything is self-explanatory – the pictures or the text. But I think we cannot omit anything (about what has happened in Sikh history). We cannot pick and choose what we feel that we like or you like, it is very important to keep everything in context.”
One question alluding to the sensitive climate of the Indian elections was posed with concern of sentiments being provoked with possible religious or political booths being set up on the Nagar Kirtan route and how the RCMP could stop it.
Begg said: “We do not control the stages on private property, and if it was on a sidewalk that was clearly city property, then the City would have jurisdiction over that. As you know the parade route is in line with stages which are on private property and many on mall (property). We do not have any other mechanism other than the building bylaws’ safety concerns for stages put along the sidewalk.”
Someone wanted to know about how RCMP could act to prevent a clash between followers of rival parties in India.
Begg said: “Certainly the police and executive have talked about this … and of conflicting ideas. There may be some cause of concern as a result of that. … I think the event is so glorious and culturally significant I would like to think that moral persuasion can work.”
BY INDIRA PRAHST
Chair, Department of Sociology and Anthropology,
& Race and Ethnic Relations Instructor,
Langara College
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.
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.
(L-R) Karen Dhaliwal, Roby Asuncion on behalf of CIBC, Minister Responsible for Multiculturalism Teresa Wat, Ed Eduljee, Souie Gorup (BC Government category recipient), and Bruce Curtis (Organization category recipient).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.
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.”
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)
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.
BRAMPTON residents, Jaspreet and Gurbhej Sran went from being new parents to also being new millionaires in the span of three weeks. 
