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March 7, 2014
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holding credible elections in Fiji later this year." However, activist groups said that serious concerns over Fiji's human rights record remained. Amnesty International's New Zealand director Grant Bayldon said: "Despite Fiji's government professing a commitment to freedoms in the lead up to elections, the fact that it is willing to overlook torture and other ill treatment by security forces certainly suggests otherwise." In March last year, Fiji police launched an investigation after a video showing two men said to be escaped prisoners being brutally beaten appeared online. Today marks the end of an era as I leave the RFMF after having had the immense honour and privilege of being your Commander for the past fifteen years. It also marks the beginning of an era, as the baton of leadership passes to your new Commander an officer of the highest professional caliber and integrity, Colonel Mosese Tikoitoga. Colonel Tikoitoga is well known to you all as your Land Force Commander and has given more than 32 years of distinguished service to the RFMF. I am confident that you will give him the same loyalty and support that you have given me over the past 15 years. Today, I leave behind my 39-year career in the RFMF to become a civilian and lead a political movement to contest
Iguana Scare
As of September last year, there have been worrying sightings of the notorious American iguana in a village on Qamea Island a place where the species has never been sighted before. This was confirmed by NatureFijiMareqetiViti, which noted that the sightings were in Dreketi Village located at the southeast end of Qamea. Qamea is one of a handful of islands in Fiji where the American iguana breeds and in September last year, when the villagers found 11 females, there were a total of 193 eggs between them. "With no natural predators, the American iguana population continues to grow exponentially after its introduction in 2000," said Tuverea Tuamoto in an article on the NatureFijiMareqetiViti (NFMV) website. "There have been new sightings in Dreketi Village located at the southeast end of Qamea Island, an area where this species has never been sighted or recorded before." Mr Tuamoto said this showed a potential increase in the invasive species' population. "Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF) together with NFMV launched the bounty for the American iguana in Taveuni with a captured adult valued at $10, $5 for juvenile and 50c for an American iguana egg.
Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama said concrete announcements on his new political party will be made in the coming weeks. While speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony of the Amex Resources Lautoka port, Commodore Bainimarama said he is glad that his first day as a civilian Prime Minister is
to participate in the first ever iron sand mining project in Fiji. He said his focus will continue on important issues like improving health services around the country, creating new jobs that pay a living wage, continuing the fight against corruption, improving services and upgrading infrastructure into the 21st century.
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Aspiring independent candidate, Roshika Deo, on Tuesday was one of 10 women from 10 countries who received the 2014 American Secretary of States International Women of Courage Award. 4 First Lady, Michelle Obama joined Safety Program (Saudi Arabia) government accountability. (Guatemala) Deputy Secretary Higginbottom and Since the inception of this award in 2007, - Laxmi, Campaigner, Stop Acid Awarded in absentia the award winners as a special guest the Department of State has honoured 76 Attacks (India) - Oinikhol Bobonazarova, Director, at the morning ceremony at the US women from 49 different countries. - Fatimata Tour, Community activist NGO Perspektiva Plus (Tajikistan) Department of State. Following the award ceremony and and Executive Director, Groupe de - Ruslana Lyzhychko, EuroMaidan The Secretary of States International meetings with US government officials Recherche, deEtude, de Formation volunteer and Peoples Artist of Women of Courage Award annually and NGO counterparts in Washington, Femme-Action (Mali) Ukraine (Ukraine) recognises women around the globe DC, the winners will travel as a group - Dr. Maha Al Muneef, Founder and - Beatrice Mtetwa, human rights lawyer who have demonstrated exceptional to Pittsburgh, then separately to cities 4 Executive Director, National Family (Zimbabwe) courage and leadership in advocating across the United States to engage for peace, justice, human rights, gender with the American people through equality and womens empowerment, an International Visitor Leadership 4 often at great personal risk. Programme. Ms Deos citation said: Ms Deo has They will visit Denver, Des Moines, been a vocal advocate for Fijis return Indianapolis, Portland, Dallas, Fiji's Ministry of Health has confirmed the death toll from dengue fever in to democracy and for the participation Minneapolis, and Syracuse on their Fiji has risen to seven. of women and youth in her countrys individual programmes. The women democratisation process. will reconvene in Chicago to reflect It says over three and a half thousand their surroundings and clear out all vessels She was one of the very first candidates on their visit and discuss ways to work people have contracted the mosquito containing stagnant water as this is the in the country to announce her intention together to improve the lives of women borne illness. main breeding ground for mosquitoes. to run in Fijis 2014 elections, the first and girls around the world. The Minister of Health, Dr Neil Sharma The Centers for Disease Control and since a military coup in 2006. The 2014 awardees are: says the risk of dengue infection will Prevention in Honolulu and Puerto Despite intense criticism and threats - Dr. Nasrin Oryakhil, Director, continue in the aftermath of heavy Rico are helping Fiji with expertise of violence and financial difficulties, Malalai Maternity Hospital Kabul downpours last week. assessment and surveillance. Roshika and her Be the Change (Afghanistan) He says the Ministry is carrying out an The World Health Organisation, political campaign are inspiring a new - Roshika Deo, Feminist and Political extensive clean up campaign after the UNICEF, the Secretariat of the Pacific generation of Fijian women and youth Activist, Be the Change Campaign adverse weather in an effort to curtail Community and the Australian and to believe in democracy and the power (Fiji) the outbreak. Chinese governments are also helping of civic participation. - Bishop Rusudan Gotsiridze, Bishop, He says he wants the public to clean up with public health and safety. Roshika has also been one of Fijis Evangelical Baptist Church of Georgia most outspoken critics of violence (Georgia) Read the Fiji Times Canada online and discrimination against women and - Dr. Iris Yassmin Barrios Aguilar, girls, and has publicly stood up for Tribunal President, High Risk Court, www.fijitimescanada.com
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A Fijian overstayer who was set to be deported on Friday ahead of a kidney transplant he needs is being 3 Year Fixed given a little more time to make travel arrangements. 2.69% Immigration New Zealand suggested that Auckland-based Sanil Kumar, 30, would be deported if he hadn't left by Friday. Mr Kumar says he will die in Fiji where he cannot get the right dialysis treatment or a transplant. But Immigration NZ (INZ) said that Mr Kumar would be given more time to make the necessary arrangements for him to travel to Fiji after speaking to his representatives earlier in the day. INZ had agreed to give the representatives a week to provide details. No deportation action will take place in the meantime. Mr Kumar came to New Zealand on a work visa which expired in July last year, but has failed to have it extended. His case was taken up by Labour MP Rajen Prasad, who says a kidney donor
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has been arranged and his community is raising the $130,000 needed for his transplant operation. "His only request is not to be sent home and be given a grace period for him to continue receiving dialysis treatment in New Zealand." INZ said it was urging Mr Kumar to leave voluntarily so that he can apply for a visitor visa and return when the money has been raised for his operation. A voluntary departure does not preclude people returning to New Zealand if they are able to obtain the necessary visa, says acting compliance operations manager Natalie Gardiner. Please change 5 years But if he is deported he rate will to face a fivefixed 3.15% & year ban. also write 45 days Quick She says INZ Close has been told the necessary dialysis facilities are Please fwd new PDF available in Fiji. INZ is aware the $130,000 transplant operation money is being raised, "but he has already incurred significant health debts in the region of $30,000".
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It will be back to it where it all started when the new Parliament holds its first sitting after this years general elections. The Attorney-General, Aiyaz SaiyedKhaiyum, made the announcement Tuesday. The old Parliament complex in Government Buildings, Suva, currently houses the Supreme Court. Old memories about the historical significance of this building keep flooding back. It was in the press gallery overlooking the Parliament chambers that I started my stint as a political journalist in post independent Fiji. It was also in the two corridors that I mixed and mingled with politicians from different political parties. Morning tea breaks were great opportunities to ask politicians for their reactions to any topical issues of the day and whatever was said in Parliament. While heated debates might rage in Parliament, the atmosphere was different in the corridors. It was not uncommon to see political opponents congregating over the yaqona bowl and cracking jokes. Before Fiji became independent in 1970, the old Legislative Council, had used the same debating chambers. Under a grandfather clause in the 1970 Constitution, the Legislative Council, which had operated in various forms since 1904, was renamed the House of Representatives and continued in office until 1972 when the first postindependence general elections were held.
Membership of the House of Representatives was increased from 36 to 52 in 1972 and to 70 in 1992 and later to 71. The increase in seats necessitated the shift to the new Veiuto complex because the old complex could not accommodate the extra seats. The reduction of seats to 50 as stipulated in the new Constitution would fit in nicely with the space available. After the smooth transition from colony to independence and the first general election in 1972, the first real test of the new democracy was when firebrand nationalist Sakeasi Butadroka stood in Parliament and called for the repatriation of Indo Fijians back to India. The fierce debate that ensued led to his expulsion from the ruling Alliance Government. He subsequently formed the Fijian Nationalist Party which was instrumental in the defeat of the Alliance Government in the 1977 general election. Internal bickering in the victorious National Federation Party prevented it from forming a government. The Alliance bounced back in the fresh election the same year. The other major event was of course the first military coup in 1987 when Sitiveni Rabukas soldiers stormed the old Parliament and took Prime Minister Dr Timoci Bavadra and his MPs hostages. That was the last time the old Parliament was used before it was converted to accommodate the Supreme Court.
energy sources by next year. Mr Patel said FEA had carried out awareness programs on energy savings. "We have done awareness in schools, villages and communities. "We are working with Department of Energy and customers are rewarded when they decrease their consumption over a period of time. There are certain customers who have reduced their usage," Mr Patel said. In terms of investment, he said, they had many projects earmarked for this year. Meanwhile, Mr Patel said they had increased the operating hours for cashiers from 7.30am to 4pm from Monday to Thursday, and 7.30am to 3.30pm on Friday at their Suva and Lautoka Customer Service Centres. He said they had implemented Bill Pay at all MH outlets throughout the country to assist customers with payment-related concerns.
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Airport Upgrade
Airports Fiji Limited has confirmed funding for its $75million modernisation project will not come from the collection of departure taxes. AFL chairman Faiz Khan clarified the issue saying the company had been receiving $8.70 for departure tax per passenger for many years. "There has been no increase of this amount. On whether the source of funds for this project is coming from an increase in departure taxes, it is not," he said. While announcing the 2014 National Budget, Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama said airport departure tax would increase from $150 to $200, with $10 being directed towards the conservation of the environment. Commodore Bainimarama said this would be effective from January 1 this year and $5 from this amount would go to Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji (CAAF) and $10 would be given to AFL. Mr Khan earlier said funding for the project would be provided by the company through tenancy payments, fees charges and other fees paid to the company for the use of the airport. He said they would not receive funding from government or any other organisation. "When we refer to Nadi truly becoming comparable to best international airports, we refer to the likes of Auckland and Brisbane in our neighbour region," he told this newspaper. "Every square meter of the airport terminal will go through an upgrade." In terms of hired contractors to oversee the design and construction phase, Mr Khan said AFL would make a public announcement when it completed its tender process and executed contracts. "We are two weeks away on this process."
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Good news for families of former military officers who have pending applications for compensation before the Labour Ministry. The first case was called when a woman, the daughter of an army corporal who died in 2000, was handed a cheque for more than $20,000. RFMF Chief of Staff Brigadier General Mohammed Aziz said the case set the platform for similar compensation payouts. "There are other cases of similar nature pending," he said following the cheque presentation. "This case sets the platform for the determination of other pending cases, so this is a case principle for the others. "The RFMF had thought prudent that this soldier was entitled for compensation, and as such we had lodged the appeal, there was reconsideration and we are grateful that determination has been made on the compensation claim."
Lesila Kamikamica, the only daughter of the late Lance Corporal Rusiate Kamikamica, said she was shocked when she received a call on Monday night that her family would be awarded compensation for her father's death during training in Nadi 14 years ago. Ms Kamikamica received her father's compensation cheque of $24,000 in Suva. "I received a call last night (Monday) to come today and receive the cheque. "I'm happy, especially when we have been waiting for it for a very long time and I thank the Labour Ministry and the RFMF now that this has been worked out. "This case was closed but I wrote to the ministry again and asked if they could reopen the case. And I'm thankful that my prayers have been heard." The 26-year-old mother said she would use the money to further her education and invest in her son's future.
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The Labasa Tourism Association is requesting the FSC to help build passenger trains to transport tourists from Malau to Labasa Town and vice versa. Association chairman Paul Jaduram said they wanted FSC to come on board and help them with their longterm project. "It is only wise to request their help because they have railways to transport cane crops to the mill," he said. "We have already approached them and we are still waiting for their response. "We really want them to help us because the trains are worth an investment." Mr Jaduram said the support from other stakeholders was intact but he
was also calling on government heads to support the project. "There is a lot of support from the stakeholders towards this project but we really want them to come on board and join us in making this project happen." It was earlier reported the suggested train would have the capacity to carry 100 people on one trip. When contacted, FSC chairman Abdul Khan said he was not aware of the project. He, however, said the important issue was the safety of passengers as transporting cane was different from transporting people.
FORMER Prime Minister Major General Sitiveni Rabuka has confirmed he will contest the 2014 general election. In an interview, Major General Rabuka said he was preparing on his own and was not joining any political party at this stage. "Yes, I will contest the general election in September. I don't want to reveal my plan but I am doing my own groundwork, setting up my own locality network and trying to consolidate my plans," he said.
Maj-Gen Rabuka said he still had a lot to offer to the people of Fiji. He said they had "unfinished business" about uniting the people of Fiji so that they had a common pride in the nation. Maj-Gen Rabuka said Fiji, right now, was not doing well. He said Fiji was stagnant and blood was being drained from its citizens by the use of natural and financial resources. He added he was looking forward to the election and praying it would be fair.
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Political parties will most likely wait 8 till after the appointment of a supervisor of elections to find out whether they can be given soft copies of the electoral roll. In the absence of the elections supervisor, the electoral commissioners may have a say, however efforts to get comments from the chairman of the commissioners, Chen Bunn Young, on the issue have been futile. In the meantime, Elections Minister and Attorney General Aiyaz SayedKhaiyum says the copies are not available. "Hard copies have been made available to them so they can use the hard copies to put in whatever database they want." Meanwhile, the AG also confirmed the provision of almost USD$50,000 (FJD$94, 387.50) grant from the
Turkish Government towards the The LTA will erect safety billboards in about road safety and this is the whole conduct of elections this year. Levuka and the Northern Division soon. idea behind this move. The grant is expected to be made Authority spokesman Iliesa Sokia "We did surveying in the West last available this week. said these would advocate on the week and we have moved to the Old Still on grant, a delegation from the importance of road safety to the public. Capital and the North this week." Papua New Guinea government is "We are working with the Fiji Roads Mr Sokia hopes the billboards will in the country this week with a view Authority in doing a road survey to find send the proper message for people to to sign an MOU with the Fijian out the proper areas where billboards adhere to simple road safety tips. government on the disbursement of a 8 can be erected," Mr Sokia said. The billboards are expected to be 24 million grant they had pledged to "It's important for the public to know erected next month. give to the Fijian Elections office. The first trench which is half of the 8 total grant, expected to be made available this month, will go towards the elections office. This is expected to A HIGH-END fashion boutique is a production office operating out of be spent by September end. The balance will be released next year. expected to invest $300,000 in the set- Pacific Harbour, which produced their The MOU is expected to be finalised up of a new outlet at Damodar City children's clothing line. "I will probably have close to 20 staff and signed today before the delegation Centre in Raiwai. Treehouse Boutique director Natalia members by the time the Damodar returnsShamima to PNG. Ali Larsen signed the tenancy agreement City outlet is opened," Mrs Larsen with Damodar Group of Companies said. CEO Div Damodar and said the new "Div and I have been friends since outlet would create nine jobs. high school and the complex has nice Fellow Certificate and medal from the The two high school friends turned designs and style. I also like having business partners were equally pleased other stores around that compliment Rotary Foundation," WIB said. with the development. my store." Finalist Executive Woman WOMEN'S rights activist, Virisila "We are very great friends at high She said they produced garments for Buadromo, has been chosen as another school and she is the most successful women and children, and sold some of finalist for the Executive Woman of lady in the fashion industry today, those to resorts. the Year award. She has been the Fiji which actually branched out to retail," Mrs Larsen said they were planning to produce homeware items such as gifts Women's Rights Movement (FWRM) Mr Damodar said. executive director since November Mrs Larsen said they had a boutique at for weddings, home re-decorations and 2001 and boasts more than 12 years of MHCC with six full-time workers and soft furnishings. experience in the promotion of gender equality and women's human rights. "Some of her greatest achievements include being appointed as general secretary of the People's General Immigration Counsellors Ltd. Assembly." She is also the recipient of the International Women Have Wings inaugural Courage Award in 2012 (one of three worldwide), US Secretary of State award for international woman of W E K N OW I M M I G R AT I O N M AT T E R S! courage in 2008 and co-founder of the Pacific sexual reproductive health and WE ARE AN EXPERIENCED AND rights coalition. FULLY QUALIFIED CERTIFIED TEAM OF IMMIGRATION EXPERTS.
The Fiji Red Cross is reminding people that their distribution of relief packs is only for those who need it according to their assessment. Disaster risk management co-ordinator Eseroma Ledua said their volunteers have faced issues from people who demanded relief packs. "Some people think when we come with our truck of supplies, that Father Christmas is coming," Mr Ledua said. "Volunteers have been sworn at, told to come back and bring more packs. We have had people come here to our office asking for packs." Mr Ledua said while many homes were affected by the flood, not all needed
relief assistance. "We have done our assessment and only the people that we have seen that need it will receive packs. "Distribution is based on need identified through assessment. "The perception from the public is a little different from how we distribute." Mr Ledua said only after an assessment was done will the distribution of relief packs be conducted. This, he said, was a transparency process the Fiji Red Cross had always practised. "We expect to complete all relief assistance at places affected by the flood by the end of the week.
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A high court in Lautoka has sentenced three men, all over 30 years of age, to life imprisonment over a robbery with violence in late 2009 in which a father of two was killed. High Court judge justice Paul Madigan sentenced cousins Joji Rokete, Josua Waka and Jonetani Rokoua to life imprisonment over the murder of Vinod Sharma of Yalelevu in Ba in early September 2009. For their dominant roles in the murder, Rokete and Waka were each told to serve at least 18 years before they can be eligible for parole. For Rokoua, a former clerk, who made no admission and there was no evidence of his actual role apart from the fact he told another on the next day that a man died because "he was sickly and we tied a cloth around his neck." Judge Madigan said his comments along meant he was well aware of the murder. Accordingly he was ordered to serve a minimum of 15 years before being eligible for pardon. Each man was also sentenced to 14 years on the charge of robbery and five months on the charge of unlawful use of a motor vehicle, the terms to be served concurrently with other sentences. The court heard that in the early hours of September 8, 2009 the three men who are also related entered the home of the deceased by removing burglar bars and louvers from a bedroom window. On searching the house they found the deceased was asleep on a bed in the living room. He was tied up and a cloth-gag applied to his nose and mouth and held there forcibly until he was motionless. The pathologist reports that bruises to the face and mouth evidence a use of force to the area. The house was searched leaving it in disarray and items were stolen, including a portable telephone, a ring and a watch. The key to the deceaseds vehicle was found and his vehicle parked outside the dwelling was driven away by the accused. In mitigation for the first accused, the court heard that he is 31 years of age and he had worked as a farmer before his arrest. He lives with a woman in a
defacto relationship with two children of that union. His wife is expecting to deliver another child in 7 months. His counsel submitted that he was young and a first offender, factors which should be considered in sentencing. However, the court noted that it does not regard 31 years as young and noted his leading role in the enterprise as one who attacked the elderly deceased without provocation and who held a cloth over his face with an intention to kill. The second accused is aged 34 years, also a farmer and he is married with two children. His counsel had submitted that his role in this enterprise was minimal but this court does not agree. One of his admissions in the caution interview was that he held and pressed down the body of the victim while another applied force to his nose and mouth. The third accused is 39 years of age and was employed as a law clerk before arrest. He lived with a defacto wife and children and had many previous convictions of which seven are current. At the time he had one previous conviction for robbery with violence in February 2005 for which he served a term of four years imprisonment. In handing down their terms, Judge Madigan said the robbery was especially violent with at least one if not all of you subjecting the lone householder to violence of being tied up and suffocated with a cloth gag until he was motionless. "Even if it was only one of you who did the suffocating you must all bear responsibility for that violence," Judge Madigan said. "I take a starting point for the robbery a term of ten years. For the aggravating features I add four years bringing the total sentence up to fourteen years. For the offence of murder I have no option but to pass a sentence of life imprisonment. That is the sentence fixed by law. I do however have the discretion to determine a minimum term which you must serve before you are eligible for parole."
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Acting Commissioner of Police Ravi Narayan has given his team of officers until the end of the month to finish their investigation regarding the alleged murder of Sereima Berwick. ACP Narayan said the investigation on the case is still continuing and they have questioned a few suspects. I cant disclose anything yet on the case but investigation is still in progress and should be completed by this month, Narayan said. He added the case was bit complex due to the time frame it took for them to return and do investigation. Its sort of complex because of the lapse of time, we need to pursue the basis so that when we go to court we have evidence we need. Narayan said it was an inquest before
and now they were going for murder charges. There are some complex cases that we had to deal with but we have started questioning suspects and we have given time till end of the month, he added. Berwick, 13, was found hanging from a tree beside her home in Nabouciwa village six years ago. The case was reopened in December following an inquest by Nausori Magistrate Charles Ratakele which ruled that Sereima was murdered and did not commit suicide. Four men from the village were linked to the murder after a witness decided to break his silence last year. Police were also to carry out an internal investigation into how the initial investigation was conducted.
A tertiary student alleged to have befriended someone through the social website, Facebook, where her new friend later transferred more than $72,000 to the womans account via internet banking. The 20-year-old accused has been charged with one count of possession of property suspected of being proceeds of crime. It is alleged the accused upon receiving
instructions from her online friend then withdrew $10,000, of which $7,000 was later sent to several recipients in Nigeria. It was upon investigations that Police discovered that the money sent to her account was illegally transferred from an account in Australia. The case has been transferred to the High Court and will be heard on March 21.
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I C B C C a s e s
Puneet P.K. Sandhar B.A. (Hons.), LL.B. Amandeep S. Sanghera B.A., LL.B. Barinder S. Sanghera B.Comm., LL.B. Jagdeep S. Khun-Khun B.Comm., LL.B.
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MY
After my accident I had constant neck and back pains. I felt sad most of the time and became very anxious about the future. ICBC said I was overreacting and offered $17,000. My case settled for $400,000 at mediation. MR. S. ___________________________________________________________________________________________
CY
CMY
The damage to my car was only $700. ICBC said I could not have been injured: but I was. My lawyer finalized my claim for $28,000 plus expenses. MISS M. ___________________________________________________________________________________________ ICBC offered me $32,000 to finish my case. I was off work for 6 monthsand saw a specialist because of my jaw injury. I couldnt mop the floor or clean our bathroom without help from my children. I received $200,000 through my lawyers efforts. Mrs. S ___________________________________________________________________________________________ The damage to my vehicle was about $1,700. ICBC said this was a Low Velocity Impact (LVI) and refused to pay me for my injuries and physio costs. My lawyer obtained more than $45,000 for me. Mrs. B ___________________________________________________________________________________________ A car hit me as I walked across the street. ICBC blamed me because of the color of my clothing. My lawyer worked hard and obtained necessary evidence. My case settled for over $300,000. MRS.C. *Past cases are not necessarily indicative of future results and amounts recovered may vary according to the facts in each case.
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I Am Free, Says PM
Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama was pulled out in a military tradition to symbolize his exit as Commander and declared Now, I am free to form my political party. After 39 years in military service, 15 as Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, Commodore Bainimarama handed over the reins to his successor, Brigadier-General Mosese Tikoitoga. He was towed by senior officers from Tuvasu Hall to the main gate, where he said he was now ready to embark on his political career. He said the new party would be launched soon. The partys name was a secret, he added. You will soon know when we make the launch, he said. He had earlier said that the name of the party would be inclusive. In his address at the handover ceremony, he said: Today, I leave behind my 39year career in the RFMF to become a civilian and lead a political movement to contest the 2014 General Elections a political movement that we all started together. He said the 2013 Constitution required him to relinquish his military career if he wanted to contest the forthcoming election. It is the supreme law of the land and the blueprint for the new Fiji we are building. Like all Fijians, he said he was obliged to obey the terms of that Constitution and he did so willingly. I solemnly pledge before you all today that I will do everything in my power to uphold the 2013 Fijian Constitution. And I ask you all to do the same. His reminded the RFMF that it is the guardian of the nation and the protector of every Fijian. And this duty is now guided by our nations Constitution, which it is your solemn duty to defend and protect. I am intensely conscious of the solemn duty that rests with me to continue the revolution that we began together seven years ago to create a new Fiji, a better Fiji for ourselves and for future generations, he said. Wonderful memories As he left the military he said he would take with him some wonderful memories of comradeship and shared experiences, of the many challenges of a career at sea and on land, moments of high drama, tragedy and crisis. And, of course, the many laughs and good times they had shared over the years. But above all, I take with me a feeling of intense pride pride in the RFMF, pride in our servicemen and women, pride in our service to every Fijian, pride in our beloved nation. Thanking those serving abroad He thanked those men and women serving overseas. 508 personnel serving in the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force in the Golan Heights, Syria; 328 in the MultiNational Force and Observers in Sinai; 195 in the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq; 23 in the United Nations Mission in Liberia; 20 in the United Nations mission in Darfur, Sudan; 15 in the United Nations Mission in South Sudan. And two in RAMSI, Solomon Islands. He said they were not only assisting their fellow Fijians when they needed them most. We are assisting vulnerable ordinary people in other parts of the world. We punch above our weight in global affairs. We are respected by other military forces because we serve. That record of service is something that every Fijian can take pride in. Last parting shot If every man and woman in the RFMF leads by personal example, then together as a force, we lead by example. We show every Fijian that we are worthy of their respect. We lead the nation on the march to greatness. That is our vision. That is our dream. And it begins here, with every one of us. Sadly, this is the moment when us becomes you you, the men and women of the RFMF, me, from today, a civilian Prime Minister. The time has come for me to say goodbye. The time has come to welcome the new Commander.
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Former Prime Minister and Fiji Labour Party Leader, Mahendra Chaudhrys trial will go ahead on the 31st of this month. This follows the dismissal of Chaudhrys application for the charges against him to be dismissed. Justice Paul Madigan has ruled that the trial will go ahead at the end of the month. Chaudhry is facing three counts of breach of the Exchange Control Act. The first count against Chaudhry is in relation to failure to surrender foreign currency, where it is alleged that Mahendra Chaudhry between November 2000 and July 2010 retained the sum of AUS$1.5 million for his
TWO non-resident ambassadors presented their credentials to His Excellency the President, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau at Government House. Fijis head of state welcomed His Excellency Archbishop Martin Krebs, who holds the title of Titular Archbishop of Taborenta-Apostolic Nuncio, and the Ambassador of Mexico to Fiji His Excellency Armando Gonzalo Alvarez Reina. The Archbishop represents the Holy See to various Governments and was earlier accorded an iTaukei ceremony of welcome by the Catholic Church of Fiji. He hails from Essen Germany and completed his Doctor of Philosophy in Canon Law from the Pontifical
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Gregorian University. He has represented the Catholic Church in various countries including Burundi, Japan, Austria and currently serves as the Apostolic Nuncio to New Zealand and several states of the Pacific. His Excellency, Ambassador Alvarez Reina, who is based in Canberra, is a career diplomat who joined the Foreign Service in 1988 and was promoted to the rank of Minister in 2005. He holds a Masters Degree on International Relations with Speciality in Pacific Studies from Deakin University of Melbourne and on Management and National Security from the Centro de Estudios Navales de la Armada de Mexico.
own benefit without the consent of the Governor of the Reserve Bank of Fiji. The second count is in relation to dealing in foreign currency otherwise than with an authorised dealer without permission. The third count relates to failure to collect debts where it is alleged that Chaudhry having the right to receive a sum of AUS$1.5 million from the financial institutions in Australia and New Zealand, caused the delay of payment of the sum, in whole or in part, to himself by authorizing the continual investment of the sum together with interest acquired back into financial institutions without the permission of the Governor of the Reserve Bank of Fiji.
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Attracting and retaining the best international talent to fill skills shortages in key occupations is critical to Canadas economic success.
- Hon. Jason Kenney, P.C., M.P.
Minister of Employment and Social Development
The Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs, Government of India, has announced the tentative schedule of the 28th & 29th Know India Programmes to be conducted by the Ministry. The Know India Programme (KIP) is a kind of an Orientation Programme expected to provide the participants exposure to various facets of the Indian way of life, culture, spirituality, adventure and sports, creativity and composite character of India and interaction with youth from different parts of the country. The tentative schedule of the 28th and 29th Know India Programmes is given below: KIP Proposed Tentative Period Proposed Partner State Last date for receipt of application in the High Commission of India, Suva 28th KIP 9 30 June 2014 Jammu & Kashmir 25th March 2014 29th KIP 29 Aug -18 Sep 2014 Himachal Pradesh 25th June 2014 The following may, however, be noted: This programme is open only for
Persons of Indian origin (PIOs) in the age group of 18-26 years from all over the world. Minimum qualification for applying is graduate or studying for graduation. Applications from Fiji are required to be made to the Indian High Commission in Suva by the stipulated dates give above. Applications received after the prescribed last date would not be considered. Selected participants would be required to purchase air ticket for their journey from the country of residence to India and back. The High Commission would reimburse 90% (ninety percent) of the total cost of air ticket (at lowest economy excursion fare) to the participants on successful completion of the programme by them. Detailed guidelines and application forms are available at the High Commissions website: www. indianhighcommission.org.fj as well as the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs website moia.gov.in.
Newly appointed Army Commander, Brigadier Mosese Tikoitoga says taking up the position of Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama will be difficult, in the sense that he is replacing someone better at the job. Tikoitoga said that would be the only arduous part of his new post in the military. The only difficult bit is Im putting on the shoes of a very good commander, I hope I can live to his expectations of the RFMF, Tikoitoga said. But he is happy of his new appointment, and the faith they had bestowed on him to lead the RFMF. I think its a very happy moment for
me not to be commanding but to be given the responsibility to command and given the trust by the Prime Minister and the senior members of the RFMF; that in itself is a very humble feeling for me. Tikoitoga said like all other RFMF officers that grow up as an officer, they all continue to aspire to be in the highest office but it does not come easily. For the few and for me to be amongst the few that can reach that position is very humbling and really happy to be given the trust." It doesnt necessarily come to all that has aspired to hold that position.
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InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa is proud to announce the appointment of their local Business Development Director, Jocelyn Whiteside, to the position of Director of Sales & Marketing at Holiday Inn Resort Benoa Bali. Ms Whiteside, a Suva born and Yat are incredible, and my success would Sen graduate joined InterContinental not have been possible without the Fijis sales force with thirteen years support of my team here at the resort. experience in Fijis tourism industry Im looking forward to discovering under her belt, and now joins the ranks Bali, taking on the challenges of of InterContinental employees to my new role, and continuing my pursue their career in the international journey with IHG. This is an amazing arena. opportunity and I am beyond excited! We were thrilled to have someone she continued. of Jocelyns caliber join the team and IHGs Room to Grow program she has been an incredible asset and supports and develops their people a key influencer in driving results in to pursue rewarding careers through the Wholesale, Meetings, Incentives, personal development plans, mentoring Conference and Events markets for the programs, cross training opportunities, resort for the last two and a half years, structured learning, and the IHG job says Scott Williams, General Manager. referral program. Holiday Inn Benoa Bali, due to open We make it our priority to ensure the later this year, and InterContinental success of our employees both here Fiji Golf Resort & Spa are part of in Fiji and abroad, concluded Mr the Intercontinental Hotel Group Williams. We are extremely proud (IHG). With over 4,600 hotels in over of Jocelyn, and although she will be 110 countries and territories there is missed, this is a great opportunity to literally a world of opportunity for fulfill her career ambitions and develop IHG employees who aspire to grow her career with IHG. and develop their careers. Affectionately known as The Peoples Jocelyns work ethic and commitment Resort due to its ownership by the to delivering excellence speaks for Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF), itself and were thrilled to see her hard the resort is dedicated to developing work rewarded with the opportunity to local talent and supporting employees move overseas within IHG, continued as they pursue a rewarding career. For Mr Williams. more information on InterContinental Ms Whiteside said, The professional Fiji Golf Resort & Spa visit fiji. development opportunities within IHG intercontinental.com
Fijis Ambassador-at-Large, Major General Ioane Naivalurua has completed a weeks visit to New York focused on UN peacekeeping activities. He led the Fiji delegation to the United Nations Special Committee on Peacekeeping Operations that began its 2014 session. Ambassador Naivalurua and Fiji Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Peter Thomson, held a bilateral meeting with the UNs Department of Peacekeeping (DPKO). The meeting was attended by DPKOs Under-Secretary-General Herv Ladsous and DPKOs Military Adviser Lt Gen Maqsood Ahmed. At the meeting, USG Ladsous expressed the deep gratitude of the United Nations for the prompt and professional manner with which Fiji took up its UNDOF peacekeeping duties in the Middle East in 2013. The DPKO meeting provided the Fijian Ambassadors with the opportunity to discuss current peacekeeping issues of importance to Fiji, and for them to hear from DPKO an assessment of the current situation and emerging trends in UN peacekeeping demands.
The Fijian Ambassadors affirmed that UN Peacekeeping is a central plank of Fijis foreign policy, underlining Fijis commitment to the international communitys efforts to maintain peace and security. The Ambassadors also met with the UNs Department of Field Support (DFS) that is responsible for the administration and logistics of supporting UN field missions. They met with DFSs Under-SecretaryGeneral Ameerah Haq to discuss operational matters affecting Fijis UN Peacekeeping deployments in the Middle East and Africa, along with the improvement of support and security conditions. Separate meetings were also held during the week with the Permanent Representatives to the United Nations and the Military Attachs of India, Ireland, the Philippines and Nepal. Like Fiji, each of these countries is a troop contributing country to UNDOF, and the Fijian Ambassadors used these meetings to discuss matters of common concern regarding the operations of UNDOF and the welfare of its personnel.
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The Parliament elected in this years general elections will sit in the historic parliamentary chamber used from before independence until 1987. Attorney-General and Minister for Responsible for Elections Aiyaz SayedKhaiyum confirmed the move back from the Veiuto complex used 1992-2006. Parliament will return to the former chamber in Government Buildings in a move that symbolises the parliamentary authority of times past. It also leaves behind distasteful events that happened at the Veiuto parliamentary complex in the 2000 Speight coup and hostage taking there. Attorney-General and Minister Responsible for Elections, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum said: The parliamentary complex that was at the Government Buildings that currently operates as the Superior Courts will be reconverted to the Parliament House. Mr Sayed-Khaiyum said the Government Building site gives a significant projection as a firm building that defines something that is permanent and concrete. The reality is that in order to ensure that members of the public have a sense of trust in the institutions, your complex, your settings, your environments must reflect that also. It must be professional, it must be solid, it must be permanent and this complex most definitely gives all of those, he said. Mr Sayed-Khaiyum also gave the following reasons for the move: - It already has the infrastructure thats in place - It has its own separate entrance - It is part of the Government building complex - It is closer to the Prime Ministers office - It is closer to the amenities in the city
- It has its own Post Office - Accessibility to members of the public - A lot more compact - Cheaper to renovate compared to the Veiuto complex - A lot more solid structure - Better presentation What to expect in the newly renovated Parliament: Best facilitated as possible with wifi and desktop screens so if a minister presents a bill in Parliament they can see it on the screen so you can have good and healthy discussions as opposed to people falling asleep at their sitting positions, Mr Sayed-Khaiyum said. Reasons for leaving Veiuto - The acoustics are terrible - Cant have air-conditioning when required - Ceiling will have to be lowered - A lot more money will need to be spent to renovate Moving to what will now be the old Parliament house in Veiuto are the: - Supreme Court - Court of Appeal - Family Law Court - The Juvenile Court may also be relocated to Veiuto The Attorney-General also confirmed that political party offices (leader of the opposition) will also be based in the wooden buildings on the left hand side Government Building. Offices currently there, will soon be relocated. This will ensure that political parties will be a lot more accessible to members of the public, he said. From the $15 million allocated in the National Budget for the elections, $1m has been set aside for the refurbishment of the Parliamentary complex. Renovations will begin soon.
Fiji Airways says the rise in departure tax from its home base is not putting off travellers as the airline embarks on an ambitious five-year plan to increase revenue. Departure tax went up from just on NZ$96 to NZ$128 on January 1, disappointing some in the industry. Fiji Airways chief executive Stefan Pichler said the airline had at first been worried about the new fees. We were scared that might have influenced demand but it hasnt there was zero impact on demand. Pichler said the extra charge would add about 2.5 per cent to average package tour prices. The extra income was tagged for infrastructure development, environmental projects and education. Island competition Flight Centres general manager of product, Simon Mckearney, said customers will not have noticed the charges as they are included in the price of package tours but it could be a deterrent for the budget-conscious. Fiji is always going to be a popular destination and the consumer doesnt see it when its built into ticket cost, he said. Would it drive the consumer away? Probably not but as it gets up there, the other islands like the Cooks which are really competitive at the moment will start to promote their pricing. Plan next five years Fiji Airways last year changed its name from Air Pacific, the culmination of three years of change as it swapped its fuel-hungry Boeing 747s for more efficient Airbus A330s. Mr Pichler said during the next five years, the airline would concentrate on improving profit, aiming to grow from the current break-even position to profits of FJ$68 million by 2017. The airline also wanted to add a new aircraft to its fleet every year, which would increase capacity 35 per cent from 1.3 million seats, and boost passenger numbers by 39 per cent over the next five years. The airline aims to increase capacity in New Zealand by 59 per cent from 237,000 seats a year at present.
No aggressive discounting Mr Pichler said Fiji Airways would not get drawn into aggressive discounting to fill seats. With a better product youre always trying to get more money out of it. Its driven by the market, were not dumping capacity, were not discounting our product, he said. We want to be in a win-win situation with everybody we want to have a sustainable price. Schedule to suit needs Fiji Airways has altered its schedule to allow same-day connections from Auckland to Los Angeles. While Air New Zealand remains the only airline flying directly across the Pacific, Fiji is the only other carrier flying the route daily. Mr Pichler said his airline was deepening ties with Qantas, which included enhancing interline agreements and lounge access. Management shakeup Fiji Airways was nearing the end of a big management shakeup in which external consultants had been replaced by senior airline managers. You choose the right people to fit the boxes, its a very clinical process, Mr Pichler said. Mr Pichler had appointed Carolyne Gregory, formerly director of inflight services at Aer Lingus, to take charge of product and service and was also about to appoint a yet-to-be-named Australian as executive marketing and sales director. The airline was also eyeing fuel and currency hedging policies. When you run an airline you have factors you cannot manage, fuel, currencies and the interest charged on loans, he said. Right now the fuel price is okay, its below our budget levels. Fiji Airways Aims to build staff numbers from just over 1000 to 1300 in the next five years. The fleet: - 3 Twin Otters - 2 ATRS - 4 737s - 3 A330s
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An investment banker who claimed an imposter stood for him at his own wedding has lost a bitter divorce battle after losing an appeal against a ruling deeming his marriage "valid". Former UBS banker Amit Goyal, 36 told court his wife, Ankita, married "another Amit Goyal" at a ceremony in a four star hotel in the Indian city of Meerut while he relaxed at home in September 2003. The reluctant husband claimed Mrs Goyal, 33, could neither divorce him, nor claim financial compensation, because they were never married in the first place. His testimony was dismissed as "unreliable" at an earlier hearing last year, confirming that "there was a valid marriage between the couple". Challenging that decision at the Court of Appeal, the former banker pointed to a mysterious thumb print on his marriage certificate and an absence of wedding photos in an attempt to prove he was not present at the ceremony on 15 September. Mr Goyal also told court he is saddled with debt amounting to 300,000 (NZ$596,000) - despite earning 185,000-a-year (NZ$368,000), plus bonuses, before he was made redundant. His appeal was rejected. The couple first met on Shaadi.com, an Indian dating site, and married soon after in Meerut, India, with the consent of Mrs Goyal's senior army officer father. They shared a home in Canary Wharf and have a daughter aged six. As part of the couple's divorce proceedings, Judge Mark Everall QC
said: "Mrs Goyal and her parents were happy to go along with the plan. Mr Goyal was a well-educated young man with evidently good prospects in the well-paid world of international finance." The judge added that "the overwhelming probability on all the evidence is that Mrs Goyal did not marry, and did not intend to marry, a different Amit Goyal on 15th September, 2003" Mr Goyal was working in London at the time and had been accepted to INSEAD business school in Paris, but agreed to fly back to India to marry Mrs Goyal in a "short" ceremony in a bid to speed up her application for a French visa. However, the banker insisted that he was not present when the vows were made and his subsequent marriage celebrated three days after was invalideven though the groom's name on the wedding certificate from the previous ceremony matched his own. He claimed that he "not read the certificate carefully enough" and only noticed the "discrepancies" a year after they had separated. The pair moved to Paris soon after the wedding took place and eventually settled in London. Their relationship "irretrievably broke down" when Mrs Goyal moved out of the family home in 2011. At the Court of Appeal, Lord Justice Kitchin said: "Standing back and having regard to all the evidence and Judge Everall's reasoning, I do not detect that he had any real difficulty in arriving at his conclusion."
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Prince William and Kate Middleton, will visit Australia and New Zealand for three weeks in April with their nine-month-old baby, George. A spokesman for the Royals says they will base themselves in Wellington, Canberra and Sydney. The Australian public will see baby Prince George at least once on the tour, the spokesman said. He says the Royals are tremendously excited about the tour. From Sydney, they will visit Blue Mountains residents affected by last year's bushfires, Taronga Park Zoo where a bilby enclosure will be named after the young prince - and the Sydney Royal Easter Show. The couple will also visit the Royal Australian Air Force base at Amberley during a stop at Brisbane, before later visiting Adelaide and Uluru, where
they will walk around the base of the iconic rock. The trip, which will be the Duchess's first official visit to Australia, follows Prince William's last official visit in March 2011 to Queensland and Victoria. The couple briefly touched down at Brisbane airport in 2012 on the way back from a tour of the Asia-Pacific region. The young prince will be nine months old in April - the same age as Prince William when he first came to Australia with his parents, Prince Charles and Diana, in March 1983. Prince George will spend two nights in total away from his parents as they fulfil their tour duties. The Royals will be in Canberra for Anzac Day commemorations to mark 100 years since the start of World War I.
A 12-year-old boy who raped his sevenyear-old sister after watching porn online has walked free after a judge ruled he is not a danger to society. The boy pleaded guilty to rape, two counts of indecent assault and inciting a child to engage in sexual intercourse. Blackburn Youth Court heard he had viewed hardcore porn films with his friends leading to "a desire to try it out". The sex offences took place between March and May last year. District Judge James Prowse said the boy, now 13, does not represent a danger to society and it is "highly improbable" he would re-offend given the "unsophisticated" and
"immature" reasoning that triggered the attack. He added that keeping him in custody would "tear the family apart" and expose him to "hardened and sophisticated" youth criminals. In a statement, the boy said he was "disgusted" with his crimes and promised not to do it again. His sister said she missed him and wants him to return to the house despite feeling "sad" for what he did. The boy will be placed on the sex offenders register for two-and-a half years. He is set to return to the family home in the coming months with the help of social workers.
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World News
An Australian flight attendant wanted over a grisly kidnapping and murder has been placed on Interpol's highpriority watch list. Monique Neeteson-Lemkes is wanted by South African authorities after being accused of masterminding the torture and killing of a restaurant worker in South Africa in 1999. A group of men are currently standing trial in South Africa over the murder of Thandiwe "Betty" Ketani. Three of the men have cut a plea deal with authorities and have implicated Neeteson-Lemkes and others. Also implicated in the kidnapping though not the murder - is Mark Lister, a former South African soldier who emigrated to Australia and joined the Queensland Police Service. Lister has since resigned from the force and is being investigated by the Queensland Police ethical standards department. South African authorities have indicated they will seek the extradition of Neeteson-Lemkes and Lister, but are likely to wait until the murder trial is completed. The Interpol notice has likely been issued to stop Neeteson-Lemkes travelling overseas. Neeteson-Lemkes' Melbourne lawyer,
Flight Attendant Monique Neeteson-Lemkes Placed On Most-Wanted List Over Murder Of Thandiwe 'Betty' Ketani
David Galbally QC, said he was aware of the Interpol red notice and was monitoring the trial. Both Neeteson-Lemkes and Lister deny having anything to do with Ketani's murder. Uncovered letter details alleged murder, kidnapping plot The South African mother-of-three was working at a restaurant owned by Neeteson-Lemkes' father in South Africa when she went missing. The disappearance then languished in the cold case files for 13 years until the chance discovery of a letter under some carpet at a house in South Africa. The letter, written by a private detective who was once NeetesonLemkes' boyfriend, alleges Ketani was kidnapped and murdered because of a dispute over wages. The letter alleges Ketani was kidnapped and stabbed by the conspirators, then left for dead. However, it was later discovered that Ketani was alive and in a hospital, suffering from mild brain damage and trauma. The conspirators then allegedly posed as medical staff and kidnapped Ketani before killing her. In an interview with the Seven
Thandiwe "Betty" Ketani, second from left, was kidnapped and murdered in 1999. Network's Sunday Night program last trial. year, Neeteson-Lemkes denied any To date, the trial has predominantly been involvement with Ketani's death and concerned with the DNA identification said she would not return to South of Ketani's remains, which were found Africa to face the allegations as there encased in concrete after the discovery was no way she would receive a fair of the alleged confession.
At least 11 people, including a judge, were killed and 25 wounded after unidentified terrorists fired randomly before blowing themselves up inside a court in Islamabad on Monday. This was the first such attack in Pakistan's heavilyguarded capital since June 2011. Police said three gunmen, wearing explosive vests, detonated handgrenades to clear their way into three chambers of judges in posh F-8 sector. "They fired indiscriminately inside courtrooms and then two of the attackers blew themselves up,'' said Islamabad police chief Sikandar Hayat. He identified the slain judge as additional sessions judge Malik Rafaqat Awan. Doctors at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences said five of the wounded, including three lawyers, were critical. Initial police inquiry report revealed three gunmen came to target Awan. But several eyewitnesses claimed they saw six attackers. "As the firing started, I took shelter behind a wall. It continued for about 20 minutes and no one attempted to stop or capture them. I saw two gunmen replacing magazines in their AK-47 rifles," said Jehanzeb, an eyewitness, who had come to attest his documents. At least 15 people had been killed in a suicide attack at the same court complex in 2007 minutes before then chief justice Iftikhar Chaudhry was to address a convention.
The fresh attack came a day after Pakistan announced to halt aerial bombings on Taliban hideouts in the country's lawless tribal regions bordering Afghanistan in response the terror amalgam's unilateral month-long ceasefire announcement. The Taliban disassociated themselves from the attack. "The outfit had nothing to do with the attack on Islamabad's court complex and the recent attack on security officials guarding polio teams in the Khyber tribal region,'' said Taliban spokesman Shahidullah Shahid. Maulana Sami-ul-Haq, head of the Taliban negotiators, said both sides should not blame each other for any attack and jointly look for the third enemy. "We should be extra careful against forces trying to destabilize Pakistan.'' Last month, Islamabad started peace talks with the Taliban to end a sevenyear insurgency in the country. But the talks broke down after Taliban-linked insurgents executed 23 abducted soldiers. This triggered air strikes against suspected Taliban hideouts in the north-western tribal regions. Supreme Court chief justice Tassaduq Hussain Jilani took suo motu notice of the fresh attack and summoned home secretary, inspector general and commissioner of Islamabad. Pakistan Bar Council announced a boycott of court proceedings and called for country-wide protests on Tuesday.
Workers at a Mississippi funeral home in the United States say they found a man alive and kicking when they opened a body bag. Holmes County Coroner Dexter Howard calls it a miracle that 78-yearold Walter Williams is alive. The coroner was called to Williams' home in Lexington, a community north of Jackson, where family members believed he had died. Howard says Williams had no pulse and was pronounced dead last Wednesday
at 9pm. Early last Thursday, workers at Porter and Sons Funeral Home were preparing to embalm Williams when he started to kick in the body bag. Family members were called and Williams was taken to a hospital. Howard says he believes Williams' pacemaker stopped working, then started again. Family members say Williams, a farmer, told them he's happy to be alive.
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A 14-YEAR-OLD girl who was killed by a train last weekend was allegedly sucked into its vacuum after reaching for her mobile phone. Jenna Betti, of California, was sitting on She was pronounced dead at the scene. the train tracks with her boyfriend when Thank you for all your love, support an eastbound Burlington Northern Santa and prayers during this very difficult Fe Railway freight train approached time, her mother wrote. Why they about 5pm on Sunday, authorities said. made such a horrible decision well Both jumped off the tracks but Jenna never know. went back to retrieve her phone. Jennas classmates at Martinez Junior Three crew members on board saw High School have been wearing pink, two people on the tracks, railway her favourite colour, in memory of her. spokeswoman Lena Kent said. She was always laughing. If you Both individuals got off of the track, would see her at the lunch table, sitting she said, and for some unknown with her friends, shes laughing and reason, one of the individuals came smiling, said principal Jonathan back on the track. Eagan. In class, she was a good Her mother, Dana Betti, posted the student, but she also had a smile and following message on Facebook to try and was kind of the life of the party, in a explain what she has been told happened. very positive way, and she was also a She dropped her phone and went back phenomenal athlete. to retrieve it, she wrote, according Jennas brother Stephen Bielecki, 20, said to the San Francisco Chronicle . She he believes his sister just reacted badly you hear stories, books, movies about mainstream, from the media. people walking the train tracks. You For me, myself, I feel like you should didnt judge the approach, and the train and that split second cost her her life. creates a vacuum, we were told, and it He said many teenagers were drawn see cool pictures of people on train just be nowhere near the tracks, he sucks you in. to train tracks to hang out on because tracks, so they get the idea from the said.
Jenna Betti, 14, Killed After Being Sucked Into Trains Vacuum While Retrieving Her Phone In California
An Iranian man should be sentenced to having his eyes gouged out after pouring acid over a young girl's face leaving her blind, an Iranian court has ruled. Opposition group, The National Council of Resistance of Iran, said the man could have his right ear and nose cut off as punishment for attacking the girl with acid, causing her to lose her eyesight and right ear. The man was convicted last October of intentionally attacking the girl, haartez. com reported. The national council said Iran's high court defended cutting off the body parts of those found guilty of a crime, and removing eyes, as part of the country's judicial system. Last month, the state-run Mehr news agency, reported another Iranian man was sentenced to have one hand and one foot cut off as punishment for an unspecified crime. As many as 95 people are thought to have been executed in Iran this year. The dramatic rise in the use of the death penalty has dashed hopes for human
Iranian Man May Have Eyes Gouged Out Over Acid Attack
rights reform under President Hassan Rohani, the United Nations said earlier this year. President Rohani won a surprise election last year, after pledging more openness with the West. In September, the country released dozens of political prisoners, prompting hopes Iran would improve their human rights record. "There were some encouraging signs last year where political prisoners were released ... But it appears at least in the past seven weeks that in fact executions have been scaled up," UN human rights spokeswoman Ravina Shamdasani told a news briefing. "We regret that the new government has not changed its approach to the death penalty and continues to impose capital punishment for a wide range of offences. We urge the government to immediately halt executions and to institute a moratorium." Last year Iran executed between 500 and 625 people, including at least 28 women and two children, Ms Shamdasani said.
A STRAY dog has chased away an adult leopard that had wandered into a residential area in Mumbai from a wildlife park nearby. Footage captured by surveillance is a big task for a dog and from today, cameras published in the Mid-Day we have decided to call Rocky, Tiger, newspaper shows the big cat sidling because only a tiger can chase away a into the apartment premises in the leopard," he added. Goregaon area and approaching a Residents said the leopard could have couple of strays in the parking lot. strayed from the nearby Sanjay Gandhi The canines didn't scamper to safety. And National Park. one of them, Rocky, barked and managed This is the second instance of a leopard to chase away the ferocious feline. wandering into a city and sparking The incident took place early on panic in recent days. February 26 and Rocky has become a In the last week of February, another big hero for the residents, the report said, cat entered an army hospital terrifying calling it "Mumbai's chase of the year." patients, before it strayed into the They said the brave dog deserves a northern city of Meerut, prompting the new name - Tiger. closure of markets and schools. "When the leopard entered our Rampant deforestation around Indian building, it was Rocky who chased it cities is forcing wild animals to come out, not only saving his life, but that of out of their natural habitats. another dog lying next to him," resident Similar incidents have been reported Rajan Mayekar was quoted as saying. from other states, pointing to a growing "Running a leopard out of a building conflict for space.
22
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1) Which two fundamental freedoms are protected by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms? A. Aboriginal peoples' rights and to volunteer. B. Basic living rights and obey laws. C. Freedom of belief and freedom of religion. D. Equal employment rights and opportunities. 2) What form of transportation did Aboriginal people and fur traders use? A. Roads. B. Highway.
D. British Columbia. 9) What does Confederation mean? A. The joining of provinces to become a new country. B. The combination of neighborhood to build a larger community. C. The merger of colonies to form a province. D. The United States Confederate army came to settle in Canada. 10) Who are the Aboriginal peoples in Canada? A. United Empire Loyalists and Mtis. B. The first inhabitants of Canada. C. Early Australian immigrants. D. Refugees from the American Revolution. ANSWERS 1 C 6 A 2 D 7 C 3 C 8 A 4 D 9 A 5C 10B
Entering Canada
long as you are willing to pay the duty and taxes and any provincial or territorial assessments that apply. This rule applies even if you do not qualify for a personal exemption. You are eligible for a personal exemption if you are a Canadian resident returning from a trip outside Canada a former resident of Canada returning to live in this country, or a temporary resident of Canada returning from a trip outside Canada. Even young children and infants are entitled to a personal exemption. As a parent or guardian, you can make a declaration on behalf of a child as long as the goods you are declaring are for the child's use. You cannot combine your personal exemptions with those of another person or transfer them to someone else. You cannot combine your 48-hour exemption (CAN$800) with your seven-day exemption (CAN$800) for a total exemption of CAN$1,600. In general, the goods you include in your personal exemption must be for your personal or household use. These goods include souvenirs, gifts that you received from friends or relatives living outside Canada or prizes that you won. Goods you bring in for commercial use or for another person do not qualify for the exemption and are subject to applicable duty and taxes. You should have all purchases made abroad and your receipts readily available. Be prepared to make a full and accurate declaration, including the amount of goods you are bringing with you, in Canadian dollars. Making a full declaration and paying any duty and taxes you owe is a simple, straightforward process. You can pay by cash, travellers' cheque, Visa, American Express or MasterCard. The CBSA also accepts debit cards at most offices. If an amount is no more than CAN$2,500, you can sometimes pay by personal cheque with suitable identification. A border services officer will give you a receipt showing the calculations and amount you paid. Arriving with $10,000 or more Under Canada's Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act, there are no restrictions on the amount of money that you can bring into or take out of Canada. You must, however, report amounts of currency equal to or greater than CAN $10,000 or its equivalent in a foreign currency to the Canada Border Services Agency. These rules apply whether you are bringing the money into, or taking it out of Canada, or carrying the money with you or sending it by mail or by courier. Food, plants, animals and related products Certain food, plants, animals and related products pose a risk to Canada. Food can carry disease, such as E. coli. Plants and plant products can carry invasive alien species, such as the Asian Long-Horned Beetle. Animals and animal products can carry diseases, such as avian influenza and foot-andmouth disease.
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Canada News
27
Hillary Clinton Calls Vancouver A Dynamic Link Between East And West
Former U.S. secretary of state spoke to a record crowd in Vancouver Wednesday night More than 2,700 people packed into Vancouver's Queen Elizabeth Theatre to see Hillary Clinton on Wednesday night, and the high-powered U.S. politician did not disappoint her audience. The former first lady, senator, and secretary of state is the front runner to become the president of the United States in 2016, and what Clinton had to say, had many people in Vancouver interested. Clinton had kind words for the City of Vancouver, saying Americans think it is a dynamic place that links the East and West. The Vancouver Board of Trade won't reveal how much it cost to bring Clinton to town, but some people paid more than $400 for the best seats in the house. Board president Iain Black says the event was the biggest in his organization's history, outselling even two past appearances by her husband, former president Bill Clinton. "The draws from Ms. Clinton are both the prospects of what she might do, and what she has done," said Black. Cameras weren't allowed inside, but afterwards those who watched shared their thoughts on her speech. "We were impressed she didn't use any notes, She's obviously brilliant. We expected her to talk on some broader issues, the scope being wider, but other than that was fantastic," said one guest. Warnings on Ukraine One of those issues Clinton touched on was Ukraine. Earlier this week she raised eyebrows saying Russian President Vladimir Putin's military intervention was like Adolf Hitler's aggression before World War II. In Vancouver her comments were much less pointed on Ukraine, saying she doesn't want to see Russia's takeover of Crimea drag on, like the invasion of Georgia several years ago. She also used a great deal of her talk encouraging women to get involved in politics, saying when women are involved, changes happen, but they need to "grow skin like a rhinoceros."
Clinton said it would be "unfair to comment" on the Keystone XL pipeline, when she was asked about the controversial issue during a question and answer session by event host Frank McKenna, a former premier of New Brunswick and a former Canadian
ambassador to the U.S. Outside the event, those in attendance were enthusiastic about the speech. "I think she was really good. She presented really well," said one guest. "I think overall it just was really a great night," said another.
and said the policy is clearly posted at the front door entrance. The message, however, is only in French, a language Murray admits he cannot read well enough to understand. He said he didn't understand the
severity of the penalty, and wished the daycare had given a warning. "I didn't realize it was so strict that a two-year-old would be suspended. I didn't realize there was a giant line, and I obviously crossed it," he said.
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Canada News
Justin Stark, centre, with his parents Wayne and Denise before his deployment to Afghanistan Canadas defence minister has apologized to the family of a soldier whose mother received a government cheque for one penny following her sons death upon his return from Afghanistan. Rob Nicholson says an insensitive bureaucratic screw-up resulted in the one-cent cheque being sent to the mother of Cpl. Justin Stark. The cheque, dated Feb. 28, was sent from the Public Works Department, and was marked as CF Release Pay. Its not clear why it was sent, but a clearly incensed Nicholson told the House of Commons that he would look into the matter. Stark was a 22-year-old Canadian Forces reservist who died in late October 2011 in an incident at an armoury in Hamilton. His seven-month tour of Afghanistan had ended earlier that same year. Several tribunals were held to determine whether Starks death was related to his tour of duty, but it was unclear whether they ever reached a conclusion. New Democrat MP Wayne Marston says the cheque has made matters worse for Starks mother, Denise, who he described as being in a fragile state. Marston says he appreciated Nicholsons pledge to look into the matter, but that he didnt want to assign blame for the cheque being issued. Rather, he said, Nicholson should put measures in place to ensure that a similar incident doesnt happen in the future. Stark was an infantry soldier with the Argyle and Sutherland Highlanders of Canada. Word of the cheque came as NDP veterans affairs critic Peter Stoffer called on the Harper government to provide more help for the spouses of Canadian Forces veterans suffering from post traumatic stress disorder. There shouldnt be any hesitation when it comes to helping the families of our heroes, Stoffer told a news conference Tuesday on Parliament Hill. Veterans families arent asking for much they simply want to be treated with dignity. Spouses including Paula Ramsay told a news conference that the military should hire social workers to help soldiers and their families suffering from PTSD, rather than wait to hire more psychiatrists. Canadas veterans ombudsman recently issued a report that included several recommendations to assist military families, including more education and counselling services.
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Canada News
29
After Canada announced plans to cancel its immigrant investor program, wealthy Chinese are pleading for the federal government not to wipe out the programs backlog. Chinese millionaires on Tuesday pleaded for the Canadian government not to throw away the immigration applications of thousands of Chinese nationals as part of its plans to end a backlogged investor program. At a news conference, 10 investor applicants delivered their crestfallen message that their faith in Canada as a trustworthy country, with its attractive rule of law, environment and welfare system, was wavering. Last month, Canada announced its intention to terminate its immigrant investor program and eliminate the long-standing backlog of applications amounting to more than 65,000 people, most of whom are Chinese. It said immigrant investors pay less in taxes than other immigrants and are less likely to stay in Canada over the medium to long term. Investor applicants, some of whom had applied five years ago, said they were discussing their options with lawyers in Canada and whether to claim compensation for the years they had been waiting. As Chinas top leaders meet during this weeks ceremonial legislature, the National Peoples Congress, it is a reminder that all is not well at home, and suggests for some citizens, the Chinese dream that President Xi Jinping talks about is to be found on other shores. Shanghai-based Duan Wuhong said for her, Canadas education system, environment, social welfare and rule of law were pull factors. But she added: The most important thing is the government is trusted. This is the most important thing for us to choose Canada. She said at the time of her application she had considered other countries including the U.S. Applying to Canada is the worst decision I have made in my life. Before I thought it was the best. Immigration consultant Larry Wang said that Canadian governments policy was unjustified and the investor applicants want Canada to correct its mistake. They are not refugees. They can have a very good life in China. They just want to have a better life in Canada, said Wang, a Beijing-born Canadian. Wang said it was Canadas right to stop its investor program, but it should not disqualify candidates who had already applied. Program applicants had to have a net worth of 1.6 million Canadian dollars ($1.4 million) and invest 400,000 Canadian dollars, or $800,000 if they applied after 2010, which would be returned after about five years without interest. Father-of-two Yu Qingxin, who manages commercial buildings, schools and hospitals in China, said he had already bought a house in West Vancouver for nearly $2 million Canadian dollars ($1.8 million) in preparation to emigrate. The most impressive thing about Canada, said Yu, is its sense of morality. Another applicant, Du Jun, said he had moved his child out of the Chinese school system to a Canadian school near Beijing. Now, after two years studying at this school, it is almost impossible for his child to return to the Chinese education system, he said.
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Offering tax tips is a bit of a growth industry these days, and we here at CBCNews.ca aren't about to fight the trend. So, we've gathered a few general tax-wise suggestions and sprinkled in some specific tips to produce the following list of actionable ideas that could pay big dividends. 1. Consider making a $2,000 overcontribution to your RRSP. Tax rules allow you to contribute up to $2,000 more than what you're eligible to contribute to your RRSP without attracting the usual excess contribution penalty, which is one per cent of the excess amount for every month of the contribution year that it stays in the RRSP. Why might you want to do this? Even though you can't deduct the $2,000 over-contribution, it could be residing inside your RRSP for many years, continuing to grow on a taxdeferred basis as long as it's in the plan. That $2,000 excess contribution can be deducted in a future year when your actual RRSP contribution is less than the maximum you're allowed to put in. "Consider using your $2,000 overcontribution when you quit working," accounting firm Grant Thornton suggests in its tax planning guide. "The earned income you have in your final year of employment will entitle you to an RRSP deduction in the following year." 2. Proceed cautiously if a CRA auditor asks you to sign a waiver. Under normal circumstances in other words, no suggestion of outright fraud the tax department has three years to carry out a reassessment of your tax return. Sometimes, if the clock is ticking down on that 36-month deadline, a CRA auditor will ask you to sign a waiver to allow the agency to conduct its reassessment after the three years are up. KPMG advises you to consider the request "carefully" and get professional advice. "You are under no obligation to file a waiver simply to make the auditor's life easier," it points out in its 2014 tax planning guide. "If the three-year reassessment period is about to expire, and the auditor does not have enough information to justify a reassessment, it may be to your advantage not to sign a waiver." And if a waiver is signed? KPMG says a revocation (which would cancel the waiver in six months' time) should be filed at the same time the waiver is signed. 3. Be sure to take advantage of all income-splitting and pensionsharing opportunities. Taxpayers can apply to share their Canada Pension Plan (CPP) retirement income with their partners if both are 60 or over. While pension sharing is not considered to be the same as pension income splitting, CPP pension sharing
accomplishes much the same thing putting more income into the hands of the lower-income partner. You can find out more about CPP retirement pension sharing here. The post-retirement CPP benefit, which was introduced in the 2012 tax year, is not eligible for pension sharing. Those 65 and over can split several kinds of pension income, such as life annuity payments from a company pension plan, RRIF payments and annuity payments from an RRSP or deferred profit sharing plan. This is also possible for those under 65, when the spouse has died. Income splitting can save thousands of dollars in tax as income is shifted from someone in a higher tax bracket to someone in a lower bracket. Sometimes, splitting can succeed in reducing or eliminating the clawback on Old Age Security payments or the age credit for the higher-income spouse. Pension income splitting can also allow both partners to claim the $2,000 pension income tax credit. Tax software programs can be especially useful in suggesting income splitting scenarios. 4. Don't assume that you dont need to bother filing a tax return because you have no income. Some low- or zero-income earners still think there's no need to file a return. This misunderstanding can cost thousands of dollars in lost benefits and credits like the GST/HST credit and the Canada Child Tax Benefit. More and more benefits are being distributed through the tax system these days. So if no return is filed no benefits get sent. For some benefits, like the Guaranteed Income Supplement and the Working Income Tax Benefit, recipients need to apply every year. Provinces also offer sales tax credits and property tax credits for low income earners. But again no tax return, no credit. Teenagers who earn a few thousand dollars should also consider filing. That creates RRSP room that can be carried forward indefinitely to use at a time when they will owe tax. 5. Be sure to report all T-slips. Here's a possible scenario: You file your 2013 return and later discover that you've failed to include a T-slip reporting income or a dividend payment. No problem, you think, because you know the slips issuer also sends the same information to the Canada Revenue Agency. You think you don't need to bother forwarding this late slip to the tax department because the CRA will know about it. That turns out to be a big mistake. If you fail to report income in 2013 and also failed to report income just once in any of the three previous years, you can be nailed with what's called a "repeated failure to report income penalty."
The penalty, which is automatically generated by the CRA's computers, is 20 per cent of the amount you fail to report in 2013. 6. If you're emigrating from Canada, don't collapse your RRSP too early. If you leave Canada and become a non-resident for tax purposes, it could benefit you to wait until you're a non-resident before you collapse your RRSP and move the proceeds to wherever you're moving. That's because Canada imposes a withholding tax of just 25 per cent on the proceeds of an RRSP for nonresidents. But if you want to wind up your RRSP while you're still a resident of Canada, KPMG notes that "the proceeds will be taxed at your marginal tax rate, which will be about 45 per cent if you're in the top tax bracket, depending on the province you live in." 7. Be sure to transfer any unused credits. A variety of tax credits such as the Child Tax Credit can be transferred between spouses. Several credits for students such as the tuition, education and textbook credits can be transferred to a spouse, a parent, or even a grandparent once the credits are first used to reduce the students tax payable to zero. The credits can also be carried forward indefinitely so the student can use them later when he or she starts earning money. 8. Know the limits of using tax software or online tax-filing programs.
Once you tell most of the well-known tax software programs that you're a student, or a senior, or a parent, or have medical expenses, or have a spouse or equivalent, they'll prompt you with relevant questions and automatically make sure you end up applying for any relevant credits. You can also avoid those pesky math errors. Many of these programs will also offer suggestions to transfer credits and optimize deductions between spouses and family members. They're also great for performing some of those "what-if" scenarios. But for those with a more complicated tax life, such as those with rental properties or self-employment income, it may be a good idea to call in a pro. 9. Be sure to claim all eligible medical expenses. Tax experts say missed medical expenses are one of the most overlooked tax breaks. Many people don't bother to add everything up because of the incomerelated threshold: only expenses that exceed the lesser of $2,152 or three per cent of net income can be claimed. But what they don't realize is that there's a long list of expenses that qualify, so it's often not too difficult to reach that threshold. Travel expenses even qualify when people need to go more than 40 kilometres (one way) to get medical treatment that isn't available closer to home. Medical expenses can be claimed by either spouse or partner.
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31
Learn what phrases to banish from your vocabulary and how to talk so your kids will really listen. I was trying to do two things at once -cook (in the kitchen) while deciphering some paperwork (in the next room). I'd been interrupted a thousand times with requests for snacks, shrieks over spilled paint water, questions about what squirrels like to eat, and arguments over whether clouds could be blue and flowers could be green. And did I mention that a ruptured disk in my back was throbbing even worse than my head? Still, nothing can excuse my behavior that afternoon. I erupted like Mount Momsuvius: "Enough! Get out! Stop bothering me!" The look on my daughters' faces said it all. The 2-year-old's eyes widened. The 4-year-old furrowed her brow and jabbed her thumb between her lips. Immediately I wished I could stuff the hot-lava words back into my mouth. They certainly hadn't come from my heart, or my brain. We all say the wrong thing sometimes, leaving our kids feeling hurt, angry, or confused. Read on for some of the most common verbal missteps moms and dads make, and kinder, gentler alternatives. Next: Why you shouldnt say, Leave me alone! "Leave Me Alone!" A parent who doesn't crave an occasional break is a saint, a martyr, or someone who's so overdue for some time alone she's forgotten the benefits of recharging. Trouble is, when you routinely tell your kids, "Don't bother me" or "I'm busy," they internalize that message. They begin to think there's no point in talking to you because you're always brushing them off. If you set up that pattern when your children are small, then they may be less likely to tell you things as they get older. From infancy, kids should get in the habit of seeing their parents take time for themselves. Use pressure-release valves -- whether signing up with a babysitting co-op, trading off childcare with your partner or a friend, or even parking your child in front of a video so that you can have half an hour to relax and regroup. At those times when you're preoccupied (or overstressed, as I was when I exploded at my girls), set up some parameters in advance. I might have said, "Mom has to finish this one thing, so I need you to paint quietly for a few minutes. When I'm done, we'll go outside." Just be realistic. A toddler and a preschooler aren't likely to amuse themselves for a whole hour. Next: Why you shouldn't label your
Coloring
kids "You're So..." Labels are shortcuts that shortchange kids: "Why are you so mean to Katie?" Or "How could you be such a klutz?" Sometimes kids overhear us talking to others: "She's my shy one." Young children believe what they hear without question, even when it's about themselves. So negative labels can become a self-fulfilling prophecy. Thomas gets the message that meanness is his nature. "Klutzy" Sarah begins to think of herself that way, undermining her confidence. Even labels that seem neutral or positive -"shy" or "smart" -- pigeonhole a child and place unnecessary or inappropriate expectations on her. The worst ones cut dangerously deep. Many a parent can still vividly, and bitterly, remember when her own parent said something like "You're so hopeless" (or "lazy" or "stupid"). A far better approach is to address the specific behavior and leave the adjectives about your child's personality out of it. For example, "Katie's feelings were hurt when you told everyone not to play with her. How can we make her feel better?" Next: Why you shouldn't say "Don't cry." "Don't Cry." Variations: "Don't be sad." "Don't be a baby." "Now, now -- there's no reason to be afraid." But kids do get upset enough to cry, especially toddlers, who can't always articulate their feelings with words. They do get sad. They do get frightened. It's natural to want to protect a child from such feelings. But saying 'Don't be' doesn't make a child feel better, and it also can send the message that his emotions aren't valid -- that it's not okay to be sad or scared." Rather than deny that your child feels a particular way -- when he obviously does -- acknowledge the emotion up front. It must make you really sad when Jason says he doesn't want to be your friend anymore. Yes, the waves sure can be scary when you're not used to them. But we'll just stand here together and let them tickle our feet. I promise I won't let go of your hand. By naming the real feelings that your child has, you'll give him the words to express himself -- and you'll show him what it means to be empathetic. Ultimately, he'll cry less and describe his emotions instead.
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Your Health
Eye surgeon Dr Mehta talks about exercises for your eyes and how they are beneficial to you Looking after your eyes should be a book while sitting down or lying on your top priority, especially if you your stomach, it doesn't affect vision. spend most of your time in front of the However, it is the effort to maintain a computer, phone or TV screen. Do you fixed gaze at a rapidly moving object stare at the computer for very long? that tires the internal mechanism of the If you do, you probably know how eye leading to strain. draining and tiring it can be to your Similarly, reading in dim light leads entire body, not just your eyes. to strain. This is because your pupils Even if you're lucky enough to have dilate in order to allow more light to perfect 20/20 vision, taking care of enter the eyes. Straining the eyes can your eyes is important to keeping lead to persistent headaches, fatigue, your peepers in perfect condition. And blurry vision and loss of the ability to believe it or not, exercising the eyes is focus on objects. as important as exercising the rest of One of the most common causes of your body. eye fatigue is staring for long periods Exercising your eyes is important at digital devices such as computer Eye exercises help the eye both screens, smart phones or video games. mechanically and optically says This type of eye fatigue or eye strain is eye surgeon. Exercises improve the known as computer vision syndrome. mechanical stability of the eye by It affects about 50%-90% of computer coordinating and strengthening the workers. Exposure to extreme eye muscles. They increase the ability brightness or glare is bad for the eyes. of the eyes to focus and optically, Also any activity that causes you to they improve the optical image co- focus intensely for extended periods of ordination between the two eyes. time may result in decreased blinking, This allows the eyes to relay a three- which leads to dry eyes. This is why dimensional accurate image to the reading on the go or reading in dim brain, which then sends us a signal that light is a definite no. allows us to see the image. Exercises to refresh your eyes While the exercises may not reduce On a roll your dependence on spectacles, they Roll your eyes clockwise, then are very necessary if you want healthy counter-clockwise. Repeat this every eyes. Your eyes are just like any other 30 minutes. This is especially needed, part of your body - they need rest and if you are sitting in front of a computer recuperation after a day's work to repair monitor or studying for long hours. and strengthen them. Palming Exercising your eyes regularly will Close your eyes and cover them help you make sure you don't feel lightly with your cupped palms. Avoid fatigued or tired at the end of the day applying pressure on your eyeballs. and ensure that you have dewy fresh This relaxes tired eyes. eyes always. Focus Causes of eyestrain Focus on an object far away from you Our eyes are designed to work best in for about half a minute. Try to maintain a position of depressed convergence. your focus, then blink rapidly several This means at an angle that is 25 times. Then focus on a nearby object degrees below the eye level in a for about 15 seconds. Try to maintain downward direction. As long as you your focus, then blink rapidly several maintain this angle, whether you read times. Do this 10 times.
Eye Exercises You Need To Know Why Dark Chocolate Is Good For About Your Heart
Researchers have suggests that consumption of dark chocolate lowers the augmentation index, a key vascular health predictor, and reduces adhesion of white blood cells to the vessel wall Dark chocolate helps restore flexibility to arteries while also preventing white blood cells from sticking to the walls of blood vessels. Both arterial stiffness and white blood cell adhesion are known factors that play a significant role in atherosclerosis. The scientists also found that increasing the flavanol content of dark chocolate did not change this effect. Diederik Esser, Ph.D., a researcher involved in the work from the Top Institute Food and Nutrition and Wageningen University, Division of Human Nutrition in Wageningen, The Netherlands, said that they provide a more complete picture of the impact of chocolate consumption in vascular health and show that increasing flavanol content has no added beneficial effect on vascular health. He said that, however, this increased flavanol content clearly affected taste and thereby the motivation to eat these chocolates. So the dark side of chocolate is a healthy one. To make this discovery, Esser and colleagues analyzed 44 middle-aged overweight men over two periods of four weeks as they consumed 70 grams of chocolate per day. Study participants received either specially produced dark chocolate with high flavanol content or chocolate that was regularly produced. Both chocolates had a similar cocoa mass content. Before and after both intervention periods, researchers performed a variety of measurements that are important indicators of vascular health. During the study, participants were advised to refrain from certain energy dense food products to prevent weight gain. Scientists also evaluated the sensory properties of the high flavanol chocolate and the regular chocolate and collected the motivation scores of the participants to eat these chocolates during the intervention.
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Your Health
33
A new study has found that yoga can benefit women who are undergoing treatment for breast cancer, as it regulates stress and fights fatigue. The research has found that patients, who participated in yoga exercises that incorporated controlled breathing, meditation and relaxation techniques into their treatment plan, experienced improved ability to engage in their daily activities, better general health and better regulation of stress hormone cortisol. The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, revealed that Women in the yoga group were also better equipped to find meaning in the illness experience and it can benefit
cancer patients by comparing their experience with patients in an active control group who integrated simple, generic stretching exercises into their lives. According to the study, women who practiced yoga had the steepest decline in their cortisol levels across the day, which have been earlier linked to worse outcomes in breast cancer. Lorenzo Cohen, Ph.D., professor and director of the Integrative Medicine Program said that combining mind and body practices clearly have tremendous potential to help patients manage the psychosocial and physical difficulties associated with treatment and life after cancer, beyond the benefits of simple stretching.
People Suffering From Sleep Apnea May Face Higher Risk Of Pneumonia A new study has revealed that people According to the research, higher
who have sleep apnea, may be at a higher risk of contracting pneumonia. According to researchers from department of Chest Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, pneumonia was more likely to develop in the people with sleep apnea than the people without it. The study, conducted on 34,100 patients, found that people with pneumonia were older and had more co-morbidities such as heart disease, diabetes, dementia and other diseases.
Detoxing may be important but it is also important to do it the right way. Evelyn Toner, senior specialist dietitian at London Bridge Hospital, dishes up the truth on detox diets and offers her top five tips for detoxing the healthy way. "Detox diets may lead to weight loss due to their extreme nature, calorie restriction and the fact that they cut out whole food groups. There is no evidence for them, the weight loss is not sustainable and is usually regained once a normal diet is resumed," said Toner. However, to keep the body functioning well, optimise health, increase energy levels and improve skin, hair and nails, follow the five tips below: * Include a variety of fruit and vegetables every day: The more colourful and varied, the better it is. They can be fresh, frozen, tinned, dried
or as juice. Include some at each meal and as a snack between meals, aiming for five portions a day. These will give you a wide range of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fibre. * Drink plenty of fluid: All nonalcoholic drinks count but try to avoid sugary soft and fizzy drinks and excessive caffeine-containing drinks. This will keep you hydrated, help flush toxins and keep skin glowing. * Choose high fibre starchy foods: This will help you feel full for longer and provide important vitamins, minerals and fibre which will keep your digestive system healthy and prevent constipation. * Eat less salt: Even if you don't add salt to your meals, many foods are already high in salt. Excessive salt intake can increase your blood pressure and risk of other diseases.
Workaholics tend to skip breakfast or indulge in fast food to save time. But the habit is unhealthy, says a nutritionist adding that consuming fatty and oily food is not an ideal way to start the day. Here is a list of food items that should be avoided: - Paranthas dripping with oil or ghee are a big no. Even if you wish to eat them, avoid using excess oil and ghee and have them with curd. - Poori-Aaloo is a common breakfast for those who stay in hostels. It is not a healthy option. If there is no other choice, use a paper or tissue to soak the excess oil in Pooris. - Junk food like chips, fried fast food and soft drinks or sweets like candy must be avoided too.
incidence of pneumonia in people with sleep apnea could be because of increased risk of aspirating contents or liquid from the throat. Dr. Vincent Yi-Fong Su and Dr. KunTa Chou said that the study showed that sleep apnea is an independent risk factor for incident pneumonia, and that there was an exposure response relation in that patients with more severe sleep apnea, as they may be at a higher risk of pneumonia than patients with sleep apnea of milder severity.
This information is provided for knowledge and educational purposes only. Individuals should visit their physicians for more information on their health.
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Astrology
Aries
Except for your temper, this is going to be a rather auspicious week for you. And if you can keep your temper from flying off the handle, you will experience a very satisfactory week. You may expect your co-workers to give you full support, in return for which you too will support them, making work overall a good teameffort. You will also be in a mood to take initiative, which is bound to please your superiors, but don't expect immediate rewards, and take setbacks, if any, in your stride. The planets suggest that there may be some niggling problems on the health front. Ailments related to the skin or nervous system may cause concern, so you should meditate and take good care of your health. Also, completely avoid eating junk food.
good rapport with your spouse, while if you are single, the chances of finding someone with whom you can forge a long-term relationship are quite high. You will have no time or patience with issues that are not directly or indirectly related to matters of the heart. Even monetary matters will not interest you. However, you may be forced by some ailment to pay some attention to your health. The doctor is likely to suggest that you need some major changes to be made in your lifestyle and habits. Remember to keep yourself healthy and fit, you will be able to perform better at your work-place too.
changes very carefully. Your family members will be very demanding, both in terms of finances and in terms of your time, so try to appease them as far as possible. Strengthening your relationships with your family members are important, an aim which can be achieved by fulfilling even their minor necessities. Your health, too, will need attention, for if you don't maintain your health you will not be able to work to your full potential. This week you will be extremely logical and analytical in your approach to life and people around you, subduing your emotions, and thus the chances of your making mistakes or losses is minimal. Metaphysics, occult sciences and such exotic things will draw your attention, and you may decide to seriously pursue the subjects. People with similar inclinations will look up to you to take the lead and will be glad to follow you. However, this does not mean that you will become impractical or eschew materialism; on the contrary, you will stay grounded and make every effort to fulfill the worldly needs of yourself and your near and dear ones. You shall enjoy the time you spend with your friends and family members. There is a lot of social activity in the works, and you may look forward to making new contacts.
Scorpio
Leo
Taurus
The cosmos is very much in your favour this week, and you are likely to make rapid strides in your profession or business. Your strong point is that you will remain very practical, and not get carried away by whims and fancies. As far as your work is concerned, you will lay more emphasis on the quality of your output rather than on quantity, a strategy that can cut both ways, but you will stick to your guns and eventually your superiors will come around to accepting that you are right. You may even have to take some tough and tricky calls, which will please some people and displease others. Do what your conscience tells you are right, and let other people think what they want to. On the personal front, you will share a good rapport with your life partner.
The most important thing for you will be monetary matters. You will be preoccupied with trying to figure out as to how to earn an extra buck on the side, and also how to save and invest it in the most profitable way. You must also realize that it is all very well to help others out financially when they are in need, but you should not do it by sacrificing your own interests. On the work front, all your hard work of recent times will now start bearing fruits, which not only includes financial gains but also a boost in professional and social status. However, the immediate future may not be so smooth and there will be people around you who will try to put hurdles in your way. No need to get disconcerted, just bulldoze your way through of course, without harming anyone else. You will be preoccupied this week with the task of trying to figure out the solution to problems that have been lingering on for too long. Your bosses will put you under pressure to expedite the issues and close them. Once you are through with it, of course, you will feel much relieved. You need to concentrate on your strengths, which is in the area of planning, not executing, and then present those plans to the appropriate authorities for taking action. Businessmen, on the other hand, can attempt to hasten ongoing projects, and even implement some new lofty ambitions. No matter how hectic the week may seem, you will still manage to squeeze out some time for your personal life. Your family members will be thrilled and may insist on a short excursion, which will be in your interest; too, as it will help you replenish your energy reserves.
fact that you will not be able to do much about it will make you more frustrated. On top of it, your workload will go on increasing, and you may get physically and mentally fatigued. Confusion will increase and you could end up wasting your precious time in unproductive activities. Sit down calmly, meditate deeply about your circumstances, try to figure out what your priorities should be, whether you have gone offtrack as far as your long-term goals are concerned, and then finally arrive at a decision as to what to do next and how to tackle the week ahead. Unless you really apply your mind, you will keep running around in circles. This holds true for both businessmen and professionals.
Aquarius
Sagittarius
Virgo
Gemini
Methodically make records of your work and prepare an impressive slideshow to present to your superiors so that they at least know exactly how much you have been contributing to the growth of the company in concrete terms. And, once the company becomes aware of your worth, you could very well be given a promotion or an increment, and you will make rapid strides in your career. Businessmen need to be very careful while dealing with clients or rival businessmen. If you can use your communication skills to the optimum level, you could very well become the voice of the industry. On the personal front, mixing with people of different backgrounds during social gatherings will broaden your mind and give you a profound perspective of your circumstances. Over the weekend, you shall enjoy a leisure trip or picnic with your near and dear ones.
The planetary configurations this week suggest that you will be brimming with zest and energy, and no task will be too difficult for you to perform with excellence. Besides, you may also be consumed with the desire to gain more money, power and fame, which you will, but only if you keep yourself grounded and not become too proud or arrogant about them. Many of you will gain remarkably in wisdom, and will be the leading light for your friends and colleagues. They will turn to you for guidance in every little matter. Certain monotonous tasks will get under your skin this week, but be patient and complete them with as much zest that you do challenging tasks. As far as your romantic life is concerned, you will strike a very good rapport with your sweetheart and thoroughly enjoy the time you spend with him/her.
Personal matters are going to dominate this week, as your professional life will shift to the background. The two most important things that you will have to deal with are money and romance. You will have to be very careful about how you spend your money, because there is unlikely to be any change in the amount of inflow. Try to cut out unnecessary expenses, and strictly avoid impulsive shopping. You are definitely going to need more money, so you may even start thinking about how to make a quick buck on the side. On the love front, you may expect some positive developments. You may pamper your beloved, whether you are married or single. There is a lot of romance on the cards, so you may look forward to a candle-lit dinner or a picnic.
Pisces
Capricorn
Libra
Cancer
The focus this week will be on your romantic life and the planets suggest that you shall enjoy the company of your sweetheart if you are in a relationship. If you are married, you will enjoy a
This week may be offered a more lucrative job, and while you are in dire need of more funds, you need to take into account may things before accepting it, such as whether the work profile will suit you and whether you will be able to adjust in the new atmosphere. Unless you have a flexible attitude to life, you need to make such
The cosmos this week is not very favourably aligned for you. You may get a negative feeling that life is spiraling out of your control. And the
Major changes taking place in your life this week. Businessmen may expect some new clients or, surprisingly, bulk orders from some far-off place. Professionals are likely to get a more lucrative job offer. You will be full of zest and energy, and will taste success in all your activities. Your success can be attributed also partly to the fact that you have planned well, done your homework thoroughly, and executed your tasks perfectly. This may seem unusual to you, but you will be happy to see how positively things are shaping up due to your efforts. The planets suggest that your health may need close attention, and you must do everything in your capacity to keep yourself fit as a fiddle. Things on the domestic front may not be very smooth, and you may not see eye to eye with your spouse, but assure that this is just a passing phase.
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The war between Kapil and Sunny Leone seems to be a thing of the past. There was major talk in December that Kapil had refused to have Sunny on his popular weekend show, which did not go down well with Sunny. But equations have changed now. Comedy Nights With Kapil has pulled off a major coup by getting Sunny Leone and Ekta Kapoor together on the same platform. The show is
known to invite youth icons as guests too, which explains the appearances made by popular cricketers in recent times. The producers were keen to have an otherwise camera-shy Ekta Kapoor on the show and she consented as it was to promote the keenly awaited 'Ragini MMS-2', featuring Sunny Leone. Ekta and Sunny are expected to shoot for Kapil in Mumbai.
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No films, no commitments, not even the captaincy of the CCL. Suniel Shetty has put aside his entire career and priorities for his father's sake. To make sure his ailing father is comfortable Suniel Shetty has converted an entire flank of his home in South Mumbai into an ICU. At the moment nothing matters more to the worried son than his father's health. Sigh,s Suniel, I haven't had a proper night's sleep for three months now. It's a very mixed kind of feeling for me. On the one hand my daughter Aathiya is getting ready for her film career. On the other hand my father is very unwell. So the excitement of Aathiya's debut is sadly diminished. At the moment we're all focusing on looking after my father. This is the reason Suniel Shetty has not been playing the CCL matches. I haven't been able to practice for the matches. So how can I play? In fact I cancelled my flight to Hyderabad on the morning of the game this week. Aftab Shivdasani who is the vicecaptain is far more familiar with the one-day format of the game. I do play cricket. But I belong to the old test-
match style of cricket. Suniel is aghast about the stories that he had an on-field fracas with Aftab. `How can I 'come to blows' with anyone, least of all a guy as sweet and gentle as Aftab? It is very embarrassing to read such stories, especially at a time when I am going through a personal crisis. Right now nothing is more important to me than my father's health. Suniel is in fact saying no to movie offers. There will be many opportunities for work later. The time spent with my father now is much more vital and valuable. Suniel is not the least perturbed about his precious darling daughter's shooting schedules outside Mumbai. I know she's in completely safe hands. Salman Khan's production crew is like family to us.They look after both Aathiya and Sooraj like their own children. Suniel gives Salman a pat on the back for standing by Sooraj. Salman instinctively knew the boy was being victimized. He stood by Sooraj, insisting that he will make Hero only with Sooraj and Aathiya. I think it requires courage to stand by people in this industry.
Jaya Bachchan, last seen on the screen of any size in 2008 playing her own son's mother in Drona, is all set to return to acting with her maiden television appearance in a television adaptation of Gujarati author Kajal Oza Vaidya's novel Yog Viyog. While a major chunk of the story would feature the accomplished actress , another substantial part of the story would require another actress to play the younger version of Jaya's character. A hunt is on for an actress, preferably a fresh face, to fit the bill. Says a source close to the project, `The adaptation of Kajal Oza Vaidya's novel is nearly done. Jayaji is in preparation for her mother's part. But the producers Endemol are yet to find a younger actress to play Jaya's role.` Apparently the prerequisites for the
young actress are not so much physical as emotional. Says the source, `We are not really looking so much at a physical resemblance as the younger actress' ability to emote as powerfully as Jayaji.` Names are being short-listed for Jaya Bachchan's younger version. In the meanwhile the senior actress would begin shooting for the serial next month. Says the source. `It was always Jayaji or no one else for the part. The author Kajal Oza Vaidya agreed to part with the television rights only on condition that Jayaji agrees to play the central role.` The television adaptation is being considerably revamped . It promises to be very different from the novel.
Salman Khan will be throwing a party for American rapper-DJ Sky Blu (best known as one half of the musical duo LMFAO) at his brother Sohail's nightspot in Bandra. The singer apparently is keen on
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meeting Salman. The Champagne Showers, Sexy & I Know It singer calls him the Sylvester Stallone of the East. Actor-singer Ayushmann Khurrana will be jamming with the singer for the Mumbai concert.
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Jeetendra And Hema Malini Miss The Press Conference Held In Support Of Subrata Roy
Several film personalities came in support of Sahara chief, who was arrested recently
issues in India and filmmakers have not lagged behind they are reinforcing the concepts with their stories on celluloid, with the movies being a mirror of society Remember Nargis Dutt playing a her husbands death. Her performance strong female role model who had was lauded by moviegoers across the the courage to kill her son in the 1957 country. Even actor-social activist film Mother India? Cut to the present Shabana Azmi, who has been a part of Madhuri Dixit is seen as a leader women-centric movies like Godmother of a female vigilante group in her and Fire, was bowled over by her forthcoming film Gulaab Gang, based performance in the thriller. on a real life story. English Vinglish (2012): The movie, The last few years saw quite a directed by Gauri Shinde, was Chandni few narratives with strong female star Sridevis comeback film, focussing characters. On the occasion of Womens on a housewife and her struggle with Day March 8, we lists women-centric the English language in the US. The Hindi films that were commercially actor, known for delivering livewire viable and critically acclaimed: performances in movies like Mr India Kahaani (2012): In Sujoy Ghoshs and Chandramukhi, got under the skin directorial venture, actress Vidya of a housewife who masters the English Balan pretended to be pregnant and language after being mocked at by her tricked the police department to avenge husband and daughter. If her character
Womens Day Special: Nargis Dutt, Sridevi, Vidya Balan The Real Heros Of Bollywood Economic and social empowerment of women is one of the most talked about
Various personalities from the film industry, including director Ramesh Sippy, lyricist Sameer, singers Nitin Mukesh, Sadhna Sargam, Saapna Mukherji and Rahul Vaidya, actors Fardeen Khan and Johny Lever held a press conference to defend the Sahara Group chief Subrata Roy. The Sahara head honcho was arrested for failing to appear before the Supreme Court in a fraud case. Roy has been accused of not repaying the money, which amounts to Rs 24,000 crore to the investors. Each film personality present at the press conference recalled their private association with Roy. Mr Sippy was the most vocal of all. He (Subrata) has helped thousands of people in the film industry. He is a very nice man but mirrored the woes of women who are not fluent in English, it also showed their determination to succeed. No One Killed Jessica (2011): Based on model Jessica Lalls murder, the film initially saw Vidya Balan as coy and introvert who later musters the courage to fight to get justice for her dead sister. Her performance was complemented by Rani Mukerjis as a journalist. The Rajkumar Gupta directorial showed that if they want, women can take on
nobody is talking about it, Sippy said. While Fardeen said, Today when someone lands in trouble, people part ways with that person, but we have come together for Sahara shree. He is an honest person and should get a chance to defend himself. As the conference continued, members from the media fraternity started asking uncomfortable questions after which the conference had to be called off mid-way. The reporters asked about the source of Roys wealth and asked if the industry would stand up for film stars accused of other crimes as well. Apparently, Hema Malini and Jeetendra were also set to arrive at the press conference, but before they could reach the venue, the conference was over. anyone. Lajja (2001): Although Rajkumar Santoshis Lajja was not commercially viable, the critically acclaimed film was about womens empowerment. The male-bashing movie artistically highlighted various crimes against women. Starring Manisha Koirala, Madhuri Dixit, Rekha and Mahima Chaudhary in strong roles, their characters were seen fighting abusive husbands, dowry and the like.
Sports Recipe
Ingredients 1 tbsp cumin seed 1 garlic clove tsp red chilli or pinch of chilli flakes juice 1 lemon 4 tbsp olive oil 8 lamb chops 250g quinoa 5 spring onions, sliced small handful coriander steamed stem broccoli, to serve Method In a food processor crush cumin seeds then add garlic clove, chilli and some salt and pepper. Make a paste. Stir in the lemon juice and olive oil and pour half the mix over the lamb chops and
leave to marinate. Set the other half aside. Rinse the quinoa in cold water then place in a saucepan with twice the volume of water. Place on the heat and bring to the boil then turn down the heat slightly and boil gently for 10 mins. Turn the heat off and stir through the reserved dressing. Cover and leave for another 10 mins. Meanwhile heat a griddle pan or grill to high and cook the lamb for about 3-5 mins on each side or until cooked to your liking. When ready to serve stir the spring onions and coriander through the quinoa and serve with the lamb and steamed stem broccoli dressed in a drizzle more oil.
Ingredients 1 container (15 oz.) ricotta cheese 1 egg 1 box (10 oz.) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry 1/2 tsp. salt 1/4 tsp. ground black pepper 1/8 tsp. ground nutmeg (optional) 1 jar Bertolli Alfredo Sauce 12 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained 1 lb. fresh mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced Directions Preheat oven to 350. Combine ricotta cheese, egg, spinach,
salt, pepper and nutmeg in medium bowl; set aside. Spread 1/4 cup Sauce in 13 x 9-inch baking dish. Arrange 4 lasagna noodles, then top with 1/2 of the ricotta mixture, 1/4 cup sauce and 1/3 of the mozzarella cheese; repeat layers, ending with noodles. Top with remaining 1/4 cup Sauce. Cover with aluminum foil and bake 40 minutes. Remove foil, then top with remaining mozzarella cheese. Bake an additional 10 minutes or until cheese is melted and lasagna is lightly browned. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.
Ingredients: 12 Large prawns 1 tbsp Chinese wine or dry sherry 1 Clove garlic, crushed 2 tbsp Light soy sauce 1 Egg, beaten Breadcrumbs for coating Peanut oil for deep frying 1/2 tsp Finely grated fresh ginger 1/2 Cup corn flour Salt to taste
Butterfly Prawns
How to make Butterfly Prawns: Shell the prawns don't remove the tails Remove black veins From the interior curve, cut the meat leaving the thin layer on the back Mix soy sauce, garlic, wine, salt & ginger Dip prawns into corn flour Now dip the prawns into the beaten egg Use breadcrumbs for coating Fry the prawns properly until they become crispy.
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Relationships
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May be your man is ready to be awarded this title already. Read on to see the signs... You must have heard from women When the man starts giving you who harp about how their men can't ultimatums, he's just started off with do without them. While a part of you being needy. Has he ever done that? goes 'Aww', there's another part that It starts from asking you to make a wonders how clingy their man really is. choice between him and the things that And then, you're more than convinced you want to do. Such a man should about the same when you get to know be avoided before you lose your mind a man ditto that Mr. Needy we call pleasing him by the minute. him, someone who wants to be around 4. I need you too: you 24/7. Here are the signs to know He needs to be with you when you are if you're in a relationship with such with your friends. Who doesn't like a a man, who doesn't understand the little 'we time' with friends, without concept of giving you any space at all. the partner. But what when your guy 1. Constant sweet talker: is more than adamant to be a part of Post first date, this man will sweet the girl gang, even if that means when talk, but 'always'. Yes, that's the first he's uninvited. Imagine what you'd sign that he just can't do without you ever feel if your friend got along a ever. If after the first few dates, a man date when you girlies are having that is constantly texting you throughout bonding time. Wouldn't you think, he the day, narrating to you that he's busy can't leave her alone even once. daydreaming about you, naming his 5. Let's do this faster: unborn kids with you, and is more than Has he initiated talks about sex, living willing to meet you every now and in, marriage, baby names already! Well, then (embarrassing you outside your there he is, wants it all at once, actually workplace with that pretty bunch of 'needs it now'. He needs you to the flowers), well, he's just too desperate extent of not willing to even wait for and clingy. Think of it, either the man time to pass before he knows you better. is just trying to get hooked on, or he's 6. On and on: so in need of a woman. He met you in the morning, calls you 2. Friends no more: in the afternoon to show interest of Does he bail out his friends for you? wanting to meet you at night. Then Well, at first this may sound really again the next morning.... This sequence sweet of him, who doesn't like a man goes on in the life of a man who can't who prioritises his date over his friends. do without a woman. Whether he has a But if he's the kinds who cancels every job, has friends to count on is besides single plan with his friend just for you, the point, the only thing that you can that's an initial Mr. Needy sign. Come decipher here is that he needs a woman to think of it, he's about to mould a in his life. relationship with you where in he's 7. Sly stalker: convinced you he's ok with lying all Is he always liking your posts and day on that couch with you rather than pictures, posting comments and you being at the bowling alley with friends know he checks his social networking (always, that is). And soon, he'll need page only to stalk your profile. Well, you to do the same. that's a man who just can't do without 3. Do this, not that: you and has you on his mind.
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Lifestyle
43
Orange Peel
Watermelon Rind
Potato Skin
Apple Peel
According to a study, a chemical in the peel of oranges and other citrus fruits may have a cholesterol-lowering effect stronger than that of some prescription drugs. The compounds, polymethoxylated flavones, may also account for citrus fruits protective powers against heart disease and inflammation, according to the study. But not to worry: You dont have to bite into the thing whole. Grate or zest the rind to flavour your favourite dishes.
Beet Greens
The watery flesh of this summertime favourite contains an amino acid called L-citrulline, thought to improve athletic performance and ease muscle soreness. But citrulline, which also helps remove nitrogen from the blood, was discovered to be in the rind of the watermelon too, in a 2003 study from the USDAs Agricultural Research Service.
The flesh of your spud has a lot to offer too, but, ounce for ounce, the skin provides more fibre. It also contains a host of B vitamins, vitamin C, iron, calcium and potassium, among other nutrients, according to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. That doesnt mean ordering the potato skins at the bar; stick to baked spuds with the skin on, please.
Turnip Greens
Pumpkin Seeds
An antioxidant called quercetin awaits in the skin of your apple, providing benefits to the lungs and the brain. Apple peel also packs more fibre and vitamins than the flesh of the fruit. Swiss chard Stems A study found that within those brightly-hued stalks have substantial amounts of glutamine, an amino acid that plays an essential role in the bodys healing and repairing processes. Try chopping and cooking those stems right along with the leaves.
Although now we harvest these plants for their roots the beets they were grown first for their leaves, according to The Complete Leafy Greens Cookbook. Cook em for major fibre, calcium, iron and more, plus heaping helpings of vitamins A and K. Expect a taste thats half beet, half kale, all yum.
Like turnips, these not-to-be-discarded leaves are a sweet and spicy mix. Like beet greens, theyre sky high in vitamins A and K, as well as a very good source of fibre, iron, potassium and more.
Next time youre carving a pumpkin, set aside the gory guts as you scoop em out. About half a cup contains more than your daily recommended intake of magnesium, low levels of which may lead to heart problems, osteoporosis and headaches. Pepitas are also rich in iron and protein, as well as certain plant-based compounds called phytosterols, which have been shown to reduce bad cholesterol.
Got dull, lifeless skin? While skin texture is mostly hereditary, there is a lot you can do to improve it. The effect of diet is seriously Studies say that the antioxidants and underestimated in beauty care. While cytokinins present in coconut water consumption of fruits and fruit juices have an age defying effect on skin. The is said to be good for the skin, it is best nutritious value of the drink has always to avoid oily and masala rich foods. been acknowledged. If you are feeling While orange juice has been voted the weak or have stomach problems, drink best for skin, not many are aware of coconut water for an energy boost. the benefits of coconut water when it An advantage it has over fruit juices is that comes to skin care. you can easily have a glass a day since it The liquid, considered the purest one is almost entirely fat free and sugar free. after water, hydrates the skin, making Well, drink coconut water every day it look more youthful and supple. and watch your skin glow!
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You're shopping for a new car. You know which model you want. But how should you pay for it? Financing it with a loan may require a $600 monthly payment, whereas that very same vehicle could be leased for perhaps $350 a month. (Of course, some people will find a way to justify using that $600 a month to lease a fancier car.) It's one of those perennial questions, and everyone seems to have an opinion. The big dangling carrot of leasing is clear: cash flow. The problem, of course, is that if you always lease, you will always have a monthly payment. Let's break down the difference between a purchase loan and a lease to the fundamentals. If you buy a car outright and you don't have the cash to pay for it, you take out a loan. Let's assume no down payment. If the car sells for $30,000, you'll need to take out a loan for $30,000, and you may be charged interest for borrowing that money. With a lease, instead of borrowing the full purchase price of the car, you are only borrowing the amount the car will depreciate over the term of the lease. With a three-year lease, and the expected market value of $15,000 in three years based on regular wear and tear (known as the "residual value"), then you only have to finance the difference between the purchase price and the residual value. Financing $15,000 is going to have a lower monthly payment than financing $30,000, even with a shorter lease term. This is the basic reason lease payments are lower than loan payments. So with leasing, you have peace of mind. You also have the upgrade factor: Since leases are generally between two and four years, the vehicles are almost always going to be fully covered by warranties and driving them should be problem-free. These are the best years of a car's life. Once the lease is up, you get to trade in your car for the latest model. You can keep up with the Joneses. On the other hand, if you took out a five-year loan to purchase the car outright, your monthly payments would stop after five years. It would be only a matter of time before the breakeven point was reached. Of course, you have to consider more than just the difference between
monthly payment amounts and length of payments. Over longer periods of time, there will be major maintenance requirements that need to be calculated into the equation. But, for the most part, a person who drives responsibly and pays attention to routine maintenance is going to come out ahead if they buy. There is no law that says you have to drive a bought car into the ground. If you want to upgrade, you have the option of selling the car any time. After a few years, there should be equity in the car over and above the balance of the loan, which can be used toward a down payment on the next vehicle. So, as usual, there is a tradeoff: With leasing, you will pay a premium over your lifetime in exchange for a lower monthly payment and very few concerns about reliability. With an outright purchase, you're going to come out ahead if you can commit to proper maintenance and resist the urge to constantly upgrade. For those who think solely in terms of monthly payments, a $0 monthly payment at least some of the time is pretty attractive. DO THE MATH Here's a comparison of leasing and buying the same car for 10 years (in pretax dollars). Vehicle list price MSRP: $34,000 Lease details: 36 months, 24,000 km annual allowance, $0 down offered at 1.9-per-cent financing and some incentives. Lease payment: about $520 a month for 10 years, assuming continual roll over to new car at term expiry. Total financing cost over 10 years: $62,400 Loan financing details: 60 months, $0 down, offered at 0-per-cent financing, miscellaneous incentives. Loan payment: about $567 a month for five years. Total financing cost: $34,000 Timing belt, water pump, tensioner in fifth year: $1,500 Replace brake rotors and pads every three years: $1,000 x 3 = $3,000 Miscellaneous parts and labour over 10 years: $10,000 Total financing, maintenance and repairs: $24,500 Potential savings in this example: $13,900 plus the value of owned car at 10 years.
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TIMES
TIMES SPORTS
Chand Eyes Fiji Meet
JAPAN-based professional golfer Dinesh Chand has expressed his desire to play at the inaugural Fiji International at the Natadola Bay Championship course in August. Chand is participating in the OneAsia's Q-School at the Sutera Harbour Golf and Country Club in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia which started Wednesday March 5th 2014. A top finish will guarantee the 42-yearold a spot in Fiji's most lucrative sporting event. Chand boasts three wins on the Japan Professional Tour. "I'm here to do a job and it would be great for me to do well for several reasons," Chand said in a press
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in the second tier competition last year. Billiards and Snooker Association secretary Praneel Singh said the draws for the tournament would be finalised today. Singh said three venues would be utilised. "Fiji Club will be the main host," he said. "Matches will also be played at Merchants Club and Defence Club. Already 21 players have registered in the A Grade. In the B Grade there are 28 players."
statement. "First of all, there are really good events across Asia and you also have the co-sanctioned tournaments that give you the chance to rise on OneAsia and in Japan. "But then there is the Fiji International later this year, which will really be something." Chand earned his Japan Tour card in 1998 and went on to win the Descente Classic. He won the Munsingwear Open KSB Cup in 2001 and the Mandom Lucido Yomiuri Open in 2004. Chand lost his card in 2009 after a drop in his performance but regained it in 2010 after excelling on the Japan Challenge Tour.
The Vancouver Whitecaps have added to their offence by signing Chilean international Pedro Morales. The attacking midfielder arrives on a free transfer from Spain's Malaga. The 28-year-old joins Scottish striker Kenny Miller and Argentine midfielder Matias Laba as designated players on the Whitecaps roster. Morales arrived in Vancouver on Tuesday night and was slated to train Wednesday with the Whitecaps.
The Chilean spent the last two seasons in La Liga after spending three seasons in Croatia with GNK Dinamo Zagreb. Prior to that, Morales played five seasons in Chile. The five-foot-11, 170-pounder has represented his country 11 times, scoring three goals. The Whitecaps open the 2014 MLS season on Saturday against the visiting New York Red Bulls.
Suliasi Toroca of Dakua House dashes for the finish line in the 200-metre heats during Dilkusha High School's inter-house competition DILKUSHA Methodist High School Defending champions Yaka were will rely on the field events for glory challenged by Damanu, Dakua and in the 2014 Coca-Cola Games which Vesi. will be held next month at the ANZ Meet manager and assistant principal Stadium. Ledua Akapusi said the athletes The school, which last won a medal at competed in 48 track and field events. the secondary school meet in 2012, is "Last year we won five gold medals in eyeing two gold medals in senior girls' the Triple N Nausori, Nasinu, Naitasiri discus and javelin events. zone meet and we will try to improve Yesterday, the Nausori-based school on it," he said. held its inter-house which featured four Akapusi said they sent five athletes to teams and about 400 athletes. the Coca-Cola Games last year.
The Vancouver Whitecaps acquired an international roster spot from Eastern Conference side Chicago Fire in exchange for midfielder Matt Watson. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Whitecaps FC have 12 international roster spots through the 2014 season and 10 international roster spots through 2016. "Matty is a hard working player with great character and a tremendous attitude," Whitecaps FC head coach
Carl Robinson said. "This move was made in the best interest of both Matty's career and the club. We thank Matty for his dedication to the club over the past two seasons and we wish him the best of luck with Chicago Fire." Watson joined Whitecaps FC in December, 2011. In two seasons with the club, the native of Redditch, England, started 28 of his 39 appearances, recording two assists.
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TIMES
TIMES SPORTS
Players On The Move
This newspaper takes a peek at who's after who in the 2014 transfer window. Nadi The Jetsetters are serious about this season given that they are competing in the O-League competition for only the second time. First was back in 1999 when the team finished runners-up. The side already has a fiery striking pair in youngsters Napolioni Qasevakatini, Rusiate Mateirerega and the addition of former Fiji under-23 ace Jone Salauneune has added the strength upfront. Nadi is now seeking release for Suva hitman Samuela Drudru, who is the leading goal scorer in the NFL competition. The Westerners may need to brush its midfield and defence but they do have the legs to carry them through this season and beyond. Ba According to media reports, former Labasa striker Maciu Dunadamu and Rewa youngster Iosefo Verevou are being eyed by the Men in Black. If the deal falls in place, these two will hugely benefit the giants in the O-League and the domestic competitions. But what the Yogendra Dutt-coached side needs is an experienced goalkeeper following the departure of Jone Ralulu. Defensively, the side is pretty sound, but the inclusion of a strongman won't hurt given the commitment this season. Hopefully Malakai Tiwa returns to add strength in midfield. Suva The loss of Drudru, if Nadi succeeds in the bid, will leave a vacuum upfront and coach Gurjit Singh needs to get prolific finishers to pair with upcoming Ravinesh Karan Singh, Shahil Dave, Nickel Chand and Sakaraia Naisua to remain lethal this season. The Capital City side will also have to look for a suitable understudy to midfield general, warhorse Pita Rabo, who doesn't seem ready for a long run. The return of Emori Ragata should put their goalkeeping worries to rest but an experienced defender would give the team a more secured look. Lautoka The Sugar City side is on a mission to make a wholesale change this transfer window. They already secured the services of youngsters Eron Underwood and Poasa Bainivalu, who have not had much game time in their respective sides last season. Zibraaz Saheb and Alvin Avinesh are staying put which eases its midfield woes. The return of "old boys" Maika Waqa and Abinesh Salesh Samy (Bula) will certainly help bring back the pride factor, hopefully. Quote of the week "No player is bigger than the association and the game. No players' demand is bigger than the pride of wearing that Navua jersey," Navua FA vice-president and coach Manoj Kumar reacting to five of their top players applying for release.
THE rainy spell, flooding and cancellation of the National Football League matches last weekend may have come as a blessing in disguise for some teams. Especially for those that are at the bottom end of the Fiji Sun/Skipper Tuna-sponsored competition points table. Lautoka and Rewa, in particular, as they prepare to fight for some breathing space in what is building up to be choking season in domestic football. As I wrote last week in this weekly column, Offside, the transfer window has come in timely for some teams in the revamped national league competition.
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