Culturepulse issue 33

September2015

Issue 33

Sophy-Yah charms London

The Global Inability To Eradicate Poverty 1

Contents The Rich is Getting Richer p.3 Logos to London, Sophy-Yah charms London p.4 Servizio clienti per eccellenza p.6 Cull on Cash p.11 Tribute to Russ p.12 Canada and Antigua signs deal p.15 The Good & the Ugly p.16 Farewell Russ p.17 North Sea Cod on the Rise p.23 Global Poverty p.23 Production and concept: D.T. Kalloo

Culturepulse is designed and produced by Cashewmedia ltd and published online through www.issuu.com Copyright 2015 Views and comments expressed by contributors are not necessary those of Culturepulse but of the author/s For all enquiries, please contact Culturepulse at 07920752131 Email: culturepulse@hotmail.co.uk Culturepulse list of contributors’ to making the magazine a success.

August/September has been tumultuous to say the least on both sides of the Atlantic. In Trinidad and Tobago we saw the PNM grapple power away from the People’s Partnership and end the reign of the country’s first ever woman prime minister. In the UK, despite the negativity surrounding Jeremy Corbyn he managed to secure the post of Labour Leader with the hopes of steering Labour to victory in the next election.

Back in the Caribbean storms wreak havoc across the region with the idyllic island of Dominica bearing the worst of the fury from Tropical storm Erika. The island suffered millions of dollars worth of damage to property, infrastructure and also loss of lives. The Caribbean community and the US and the UK responded swiftly to end aid to the island.

In Europe, a different crisis loomed putting European borders on high alert as the migrant crisis reached overwhelming proportion creating division and . headache for European leaders as they wrangled for a solution to the problem that a long way from being solved.

Notting Hill Carnival was dealt a blow as police cordoned off the area used to judge the bands on parade, making it a sterile area. It meant bands only performed to the judges and a handful of invited guests. What a way to celebrate 50 years of Notting Hill Carnival and more to the point, pay tribute to Russell Henderson MBE, the man to who carnival owes a great debt.

David Kalloo

Natalie Alicia Dookie Lyndon Brathwaite, Ansel Wong, David Wears, Chris Boothman, Nasser Khan, Malaika Crichlow, Amos Armstrong, Soshina Stephen, David Rudder, Jimmy Kainja, Paul Ade, Akilah Holder-Stewart , Michael La Rose, Rhianna Kalloo, Angelique, Dorothy Scott, Memory Pincheck, Erica Williams-Connell, Darren Lewis and Afridiziak.

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The Wealth Boom The old adage that the ‘rich is getting richer’ is not a myth, according to the World Wealth Report. High-net-worthindividuals (HNWLs) in the last year were ‘wealthier and more plentiful’ than they were in 2013, so much so that it has seen a growth by 7 per cent.

In 2014 there were ‘920,000 millionaires added’ to the existing 13.7 million with a combined pool of $56.4trn.

However, global luxury spending only grew by 5 per cent compared to 7 per cent in 2014. It has been cited that the sluggish growth may have been from a lacklustre approach from luxury goods retailers to embrace the digital age.

predicted to rise over the next five years wit sales ‘exceeding $43bn.’

President of the French luxury company, Chanel doesn’t share the digital optimism. Bruno Pavlovsky said. ‘To be able to wear Chanel clothes, you need to try them on you need to be in the fitting room, in the boutique to see the product, to touch the product, but also to try the product. And that for me is the most important part.’ One thing is certain, the digital age has revolutionised the way we exist today and more importantly, how we shop.

The consumer market is constantly expanding with the speed of digital mobile technology. Almost three in four people owns a Smartphone and half of us tablets. According to Bains, ‘half of 3000 shoppers surveyed had conducted internet searches through their mobile phones.’ Clearly, this should act as barometer for luxury goods retailers that consumers are in-tuned with the digital age.

According to RBC’s Wealth Management, the rich will continue to get richer as ‘robust equity returns and improved economic performance for the world’s HNWLs will in turn drive their willingness for expensive goods.’

Luxury goods are also the stronger middle class over recent years. A study

by Bains & Company found that Europe has the ‘largest market in terms of revenue’ yet it is still a latecomer in the digital age.

Luxury brands have been reluctant to embrace e-commerce and the digital age especially, heritage brands who are steeped in tradition. According to some analysts, they are sometimes ‘blind to the benefits of a strong digital presence.’

Others such as Yoox and Net-a-Porter have embraced the e-commerce market and have seen their revenues exceed over €1.3bn.

While global luxury brands are continually looking to strengthen their e-commerce platforms there is the challenge of maintaining exclusivity with luxury goods.

Something that many retailers believe happens with the presence of the customer or those representing buyers from around the globe.

This puts them at risk of being alienated from the next fight for market share of luxury goods will be fought note connected consumer.

The report suggests that the next fight for market share of luxury goods will be fought, not in the high- profile shopping districts, but online.

More than 40 per cent of all luxury brands choose not to sell the wares online according to the Bains report which also cited that luxury sales saw a growth of over 20 per cent in 2013. One analysts working for BNP Paribas said.

Digital could be the next China for luxury goods’ as growth in this sector is 3

Gospel singer Sophy-Yah charms London Soft- spoken Nigerian-born gospel singer Sophy-Yah wooed the packed St Lucia High Commission in London at the launch of Notting Hill Carnival 2015. Her rendition of Hallelujah had the audience in awe as she brought a touch of gospel to carnival proceedings.

Sophy-Yah migrated to London 10 yeas ago and the move has seen her singing career go from strength to strength. She has etched her way into the echelons of the London gospel music scene recording her first album titled, ‘God Can’ and two music videos on YouTube. Riding on this wave of success, Sophy-yah is set to release a new single later this month titled ‘Open Door’ as she continues to build a career with gospel music. She has also been nominated for a Praisetek Gospel Music Award in London for her work as a gospel artiste.

and she has followed her dream. Sophyyah said. ‘I was always surrounded by music as a child. My father ran a record store so I was always listening to all different types of music. It stirred something inside me as a child and, as a result made me the artist I am today.’

She wears a warm smile and her brown eyes dances in the light as she reflects on her migration to the UK. ‘I am grateful to God and migration, this has helped me to birth my visions. The lord delivered me and my walk with God has really formed and shaped me. God has given me a gift of singing and I use it to give Him praise.’

Sophy-yah is one of seven children who grew up in Logos, Nigeria. Her father owned a record store and being in this proximity, exposed her to a wide genre of music which is where, she admits. ‘I fell in love with music.’ However, gospel music was her calling

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There is an aura of fulfillment as Sophyyah expresses the joy of recording her first album ‘God Can’ which she gives thanks to God’s grace for all of her inspirations. Speaking candidly Sophyyah revealed ‘It was my most memorable moment when I finished recording in the studio. My life-long dream finally achieved. It was a milestone along with being picked for the choir to perform the BBC Olympic 2012 theme song ‘First Steps’. The press, TV coverage and recording at the legendary Abbey Road studio were indeed memorable moments for me.’

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Sophy-yah is concentrating on doing more music videos and with the release of her new single ‘Open Door’ out later this month and the prospect of an award in October she’s elated with her journey as a gospel artist. ‘Gospel music is my calling’ she says brushing her hair gingerly behind her ear. Ask whether she might crossover to another genre, Sophy-yah said. ‘The future holds great things for me and gospel music.’

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D.Kalloo

www.sophyyah.com Twitter: @sophy_yah Facebook: Sophy-Yah Godwin Bookings@sophyyah.com

Promoting business in the Diaspora

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Servizio clienti per eccellenza who believe in the product they are offering consumers.

I stood and watched this youngster, precise in her engagement with visitors as she carved thinner than paper strips of cured halal lamb and beef products for guests to sample. Stand A14 Dimensione Carne was by far the stall that epitomizes customer service, least of all by a 12yr old. Victoria Scipani was as graceful as a violinist producing, instead of classical music, superbly crafted cured lamb and beef to awaken the taste buds of her audience. Her attitude spoke volumes for the company she represented there over the three days that transformed North London into an Italian quarter. As I observed this young lady, I couldn’t help but pay her a much deserved compliment on a wonderful job she was doing.

Victoria Schipani

By David Kalloo

I am quite sure that most people would have walked past, sampled Slinzega and Grand Duke, two of the cured meat products offered by Dimensione Carne.

Victoria is without a doubt an asset to the company and should she continue with this tremendous act of confidence she will indeed develop into an astute and confident adult capable of achieving anything she set out to achieve.

I am by no means a food or wine connoisseur-far from it. My quest for knowledge in this department led me to Bellavita ‘made in Italy’ food expo at the Business Design Centre in London recently.

Putting the fine wines, food and various hams and cured meats and other Italian cuisine on display for you to sample and enjoy. The experience was truly and education into fine cuisine and wines but what really impressed me at this event was a 12yr old girl, Victoria Schipani. I am passionate about customer service and people

Dimensione Carne srl Via Ungheria, 2 35028 Piove di Sacco (Pd) info@dimensionecarne.it www.dimensionecarne.it

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DOMINICA NEEDS YOU! Tropical Storm Erika wreaked havoc and destruction in the idyllic island of Dominica in August rendering hundreds of people homeless with loss of property and lives. So far more 30 people have been confirmed dead and dozens are reported missing since the storm hit the island.

According to a Dominican UK based charity Colihaut in Focus UK ‘the storm has severely damaged the infrastructure, setting the country back 20 years.’ The charity is very much at the core of spearheading donations and collecting food, clothing and non-perishable items such as tin food, water and medicinal supplies to aid the island.

The first shipment of aid to leave the UK from the charity left on September 14.

However, they are appealing to people to continue donating supplies. There has been a call for people to cease clothing as they inundated with clothing. The appeal now is for items such as: dried food, tin food, batteries, nappies, wipes, school supplies, sanitizers’ footwear and medical supplies.

People wishing to make cash donations to aid Dominica can do so at the following banks in the UK: Dominica High Commission Disaster Relief Account Barclays Bank Sort Code: 20 80 14 Acc No: 93148602 with your name as reference Donations through CIFUK can be made at: Lloyds Bank Plc Sort Code: 30 99 08 Acc No: 01998405 BIC: LOYDGB21244 IBAN: GB13LOYD 3099 0801 9984 05 Ref: Colihaut ERIKA – www.cifuk.org To find out more about donating or what you can do to assist please contact: Julie 07983 222 423 - Diane 07957 688 361 Dominica Needs You! 7

By Diane Jean Since the tropical storm Erika struck Dominica on August 27th, Colihaut in Focus UK group has been keeping people informed on news, donation sites and information via social media Facebook and our website. We are also collecting Donations for Dominica as a whole and for Colihaut Village which we are in the process of sending approximately 7 barrels of aid.

The village unfortunately lost a resident, Walfgan Severin, aged 66 whose body was found in Guadeloupe waters, he was identified by a tattoo. CIFUK will continue to send aid and keep in touch with the Chair of the Colihaut Disaster Management Committee for other ways to assist the villagers of Colihaut and Dominica.

CIFUK would like to thank all those who donated to the Dominica relief and for Colihaut Village which our charity represents.

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Cull on Ca$h From 2016, all retailers across Europe will have to start using contactless payment and by 2020 ‘every single payment terminal across the region should have the ability to offer consumers tap and pay facility.’ A senior spokesman for MasterCard said ‘Government, financial institutions and economists are calling for a ’cull on cash’ with some experts calling ‘coins and banknotes an anachronism’ making it harder for central banks to enforce monetary policy.

than we envisaged. Global financial institutions are paying much closer attention to Bitcoin, the digital currency.

Despite its reputation that was shrouded in doubt, a recent report by KPMG suggests that businesses should ‘think seriously about the currency’s future.’ The Financial Times hinted that banks, clearing houses and exchanges are becoming increasingly excited at the process and, the direction of Bitcoin, further preparing the nails for the coffin in the ‘cull on cash.’

The Danish authorities have already announced that retailers are no longer legally bound to accept cash from as early as next year. Experts and economists from financial institutions claim to move ‘would help to reduce certain types of crimes, for starters, especially robbery. However, for small businesses it would mean that the cashin-hand deals would become obsolete, thus stifling many small businesses that trade in cash.

Spending via mobile devices is on the increase, something that could have serious effect on our reliance on hard cash. The absence of cash could also manifest a problem for those with difficulty using mobile devices and many smaller businesses that cater on a local community level.

Whilst contactless payment methods are on the increase, the amount available per transaction is quite at a minimum presently, mainly to protect cardholders from fraudulent use, should to cards fall into the hands of unscrupulous persons.

In time, when ample security can be implemented then customers may see an increase in how much they can spend using contactless payment method.

Not everyone is in favour with the ‘cull on cash’ as professor of Sociology at London School of Economics; Michael Busk-Jespen said ‘Cash is a more socially inclusive form of payment. I don’t think that cash should be stigmatised or banned, notes and coins still have their uses.’ In Britain however, the ‘cull on cash’ may have some way to go yet as the Bank of England is set to put into circulation in 2016, polymer notes, starting with a trial of five pound notes.

D.Kalloo

The picture is somewhat different for online economics as a cashless society may be, even nearer upon us

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A Tribute to Russ absorbed the music. While his fingers danced on the keyboard, he said, ‘I still play at the 606 you know.’ He switched from the piano to the lone tenor pan at the other end of the room. That moment was magical to me and one I will never forget, just Russ on the pan and me the audience. The sweet sound that emanated from the pan filled the room with a joyful vibrance.

I was toiling with the idea of how to write a tribute to Russell Henderson MBE. Most people would be writing tributes to the great man of music, charting his achievements and I did not want to follow this norm. Out of the blue, Vernon ‘Fellows’ Williams voice, echoed in my ear.

Vernon and Lincoln Rahamut were the first two people I knew in London’s carnival arena and it was while at a function ‘ole talking’ with Vernon, he turned to me and said. ‘This is Russ Henderson, the man who started carnaval.’ At that time I had no idea what Vernon was talking about for as far I can recall, everyone and, all that I had read said something different.

Russell Henderson greeted me with a warm handshake and a captivating smile beamed on his face and he spoke only three words: ‘Hello young man.’ His smile lingered on his face, a genuine smile as he disappeared into the crowd chatting and being jovial with everyone.

Many years later when I went to interview Mr. Henderson at his home, I was in awe that he remembered me.

Here was a man in his 80s, ambulant and a memory as sharp as honed blade.

His smile still warm but not as lingering and his face more weathered.

After the musical interlude he opened the door that led to a small garden and introduced his chickens to me and said; ‘So young man, what you want to know?’

As the interview progressed, it became clear to me that the man sitting in front of me dressed in jeans, Ben Sherman shirt and braces was indeed, Mr. Carnival. Here was a man, humble to the point where he said. ‘It’s the people who started carnival, not me.’

Sitting in his room was like being in the presence of a king. I felt privileged to be there, in the house of a truly great Trinidadian, a man who had sowed the seeds of our culture into a soil that resisted its growth since the days of colonial dominance.

Looking around the room, I felt I was transported back in time. Russ, as he’s affectionately known sat at his piano and started caressing the keyboard producing a jazzy rhythm. I sat and

This humble individual who, not only did he produce mellifluous music, he also transformed the tapestry of 12

London’s culture that is today hailed as the ‘biggest street festival’ in Europe and, which is known the world over as the Notting Hill Carnival.

Born in Belmont, Trinidad, Russell Henderson came to Britain in 1951 to study piano tuning.

Instead, he etched out a vibrant pan Jazz culture with his Jazz quartet. It was through his stint at the Colherne Pub in Earls Court, London that Rhuanne Laslett invited him to come along and play at her Children’s Carnival. The sound of a single steel pan was enough to entice West Indians out of their homes and into the streets and thus Notting Hill Carnival was born.

Russell ‘Russ’ Henderson MBE 7 January 1924 – 18 August 2015 Photos supplied by Linda Kalkov First published in panpodium.com

Russell Henderson’s contribution to music in the UK has earned him an MBE in 2006 and a commemorative Blue Heritage plaque, presented by the Nubian Jak Trust. The plaque was unveiled on 24 August 2012 by the former Trinidad and Tobago High Commissioner to London, HE Garvin Nicholas.

It was with some irony that the last time I saw Russ was at a farewell function. It was a beautiful moment to savour as I watched the great man, absorbed in the music coming from the tenor pan of Brent Holder. He smiled, that warm smile, he touched the brim of his hat to Brent and, his smile lingered.

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In recent years, the Caribbean has been a sought after destination for film makers after the success of Pirates of the Caribbean. The region as a whole is investing in this new sector that has seen a new trend of growth potential for its economy.

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The Good & the Ugly The Walkie Talkie building has been voted the ugliest building in London. It has been described by many as ‘gratuitous glass gargoyle’ that has more or less ‘graffitied’ the London skyline.

The Rafael Vinaly-designed building in Fenchurch Street has come under stark criticism recently when it was claimed that it melted car parts and created gusts of wind that blew people of their stride. James Hughes from the Victorian Society said. ‘It looms and bulges into many historic views.’ To some extent, I want to agree with Hughes as from some angles ad views it protrudes into the skyline like an insignificant bulge.

There is no room around it for new structures to compliment its design.

While I hardly see the name fitting for the design another commentator argues that ‘in time the building will soon fit snuggly and imperiously into the London skyline.’

Not a stone throw away from the Walkie Talkie another recent addition to London’s skyline, the Leadenhall building (Cheesegrater) has won the City of London’s Building of the Year award. Lord Rogers- designed skyscraper has been hailed as ‘an extraordinary example of contemporary architecture.’ No doubt we await what the city makes of the new structures that are emerging in close proximity in the square mile.

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Farewell Russell Henderson …always the Pan Man

By David Kalloo Saturday September 19th the grey clouds cast a sombre tone over London, more so, on a quiet avenue in NW10, the residence of the late Russell Henderson MBE. Inside, family members and close friends paid their respects as his body lay in a crafted wicker coffin.

Outside, mourners gathered and the drums rolled and from the concaves of Nostalgia steel band came How Great thou Art. This was a celebration of Russell’s life and, with the beat of drums and steel pan music calling to the heavens, the sun smiled, it was Russ’s smile. The day belonged to Russell Henderson, just as that historic day in 1964 when Russ claimed the streets of Notting Hill for the people. Russ had weaved the first yarn in the cultural tapestry that was to shape the future for Caribbean people in London.

Russ remained a true ‘Trini to de Bone’ with the old lavway ‘anytime is Trinidad time’ with the cortège leaving the home almost an hour from scheduled. The drums summoned a ‘dudup’ and the symphonic sound of steel pans rang out in fitting tribute as Russ was driven by his son Angus in a Volks Wagon camper van towards Harrow Road crematorium with a glorious white angel carnival costume, a guardian looking after Russ on his journey.

There must have been some moments of nostalgia for some of those attending the funeral with reminiscence of that historic day in 1964 when West Indians, on hearing the sound of steel pan came out and joined Russ as he inaugurated pan into British history. Today, traffic paused and gave way as many reached for their mobile devices to record the event with curiosity. Those in vehicles alongside or waiting at bus stops or just watching as the procession ‘chipped’ merrily to the to beat of the pans as hundreds of mourners joining along the way on Russ’s final journey.

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St Mary’s of the Angels church was filled with more music in his honour.

Sterling Betencourt’s solo was harmoniously sombre and a hearty rendition of ‘Oh Danny Boy’ by Irving Lynch would have pleased Russ no end.

Pan diva Debra Romain and Alexander D Great summed up Russ with their composition of ‘Always the Pan Man’ and Alysha West paid homage to him with a sombre jazz version of ‘What a Wonderful World.’ Father Hugh Logan officiating said, Russell had inspired a generation and it was ‘now in us to call up and from within us, to summon a new vision for the Caribbean community.’ Fitting words for it was through Russ’s inaugural sound of the steel pan not a stone throw away from where Father Logan stood that Notting Hill carnival became indelible into the history of London, through Russell Henderson.

Russell’s life was celebrated with the same exuberance as he had lived his life, each tribute painting Russ’s glorious and humble persona even in his departure. Family and friends remembered his fondness, his welcoming heart and open house. A quiet, gentle man whose talents helped shaped many musicians in London and those who had journeyed to London from Trinidad and found the generosity of Russell Henderson.

The celebration of this iconic Trinidadian son that changed the course of history in London continued into the late hours of the evening at Tabernacle in Powis Square, amidst the installation of Carl Gabriel’s exhibition, Carnival Garden. It was a true, generous and gratifying celebration of the life of Russ Henderson. You could not help but feel his presence mingling with the crowd in his signature bow tie, his hat cocked to the right and his warm smile that humbly said, ‘I’m here, thank you.’

Saturday September 19th was a day of tribute to Russell Henderson MBE. At each stage of a well executed

Russell Audley Ferdinand Henderson 7-January 1924 – 18 August 2015

celebration. Just as his house had been a hub for musicians, his farewell celebrations were intrinsically consumed with musical tributes. The echoes of pan and drums may have still been reverberating at Harrow Road crematorium when the church service at

Photos courtesy: Joan Achong, Cashewmedia and Nottinghillpost.com

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FORTHCOMING EVENTS/PROGRAMME

*Dominica High Commission & Dominica National Development & Disaster Fund Benefit Showcase, Friday 2nd October 2015 * Dominica Independence Service, Our Lady of Lourdes RC Church, 51 Cambridge Park, Wanstead E11 2PR, Sunday 25th October, 2.30pm * Dominica's 37th Anniversary of Independence Celebration Party, 31st October 2015 19

Grace Jones

with her first album with Island Records.

However, she moved to Paris in 1977 and found success. Her album was a hit across Europe including, Italy and the

I’ll Never Write my Memoirs Grace Jones remains one of the most dynamic and iconic daughters hailing out of Jamaica in the last four decades. Her memoir ‘I’ll Never Write my Memoirs’ is published this month.

Netherlands.

She was well received and soon made the covers of Vogue and Stern magazines. Jones, when pressed on the topic of racism in an interview with The Observer said. “That’s never going to go away – there are just demons there.” She recalls having to deal with racism, especially from the black community when she was dating actor Dolph Lundgren and Jean-Paul Goude, the father of her son. The editor of Essence magazine once said to Jones that she never would have appeared on covers had it not been for her white partners and her appearance in A View to a Kill with Roger Moore.

Born in Spanish Town, Jamaica in 1948, she was raised by her grandparents when her parents migrated to the US, like many Caribbean families did during the 60s. Thirteen years later, along with her other siblings they joined their parents in New York. After graduating from Syracuse High School she went on to work on a play in Philadelphia. She later signed with a model agency but at the time she said ‘I didn’t have the black American sound’ that w favoured by casting directors.

Grace Jones has worked with some of the tops names in the fashion, art and music industry including, Andy Warhol, Jessica Lange, Jean Paul Gaultier, Issy Miyake and Jean-Paul Goude with whom she collaborated with and won her a Grammy nomination in 1882. Many may remember Grace Jones for that infamous slapping of Russell Henry on air in 1981.

They may also recall her iconic tunes such as Slave to the Rhythm and Pull Up To The Bumper. In regards to Pull Up To The Bumper, she says “If you think the song is not about parking a car, shame on you.”

Writing in her book Jones says playfully ‘I am not a Diva, I am a Jones.’ She writes that “I had no childhood.” Jones described growing up with her grandparents saying that her grandfather ruled with a ‘ferocious religious discipline that was both psychological and physical.’ She speaks openly about racism and sexism in her book recalling when Capitol Records prevented her from directing a video, pronouncing her unstable and went as far as trying to get her sectioned. ‘Same old caveman shit’ she writes.

Jones did not get quite get the adulation from the US as she anticipated, especially

I’ll Never Write My Memoirs by Grace Jones is published by Simon & Schuster 20

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North Sea cod on the rise Basque people that first commercialised cod back in medieval times that led cod to be the most prolific and profitable fish in history.

To read more about this fascinating fish, see Mark Kurlansky’s book Cod: A biography of the fish that changed the world.

After more than two and a half decades Cod has finally been take off the red list by the Marine Conservation Society. Over fishing of North Sea cod led to the reduction of Cod fishing and the species put on a red list to allow the fish to thrive after fears that it could be eaten into extinction.

The Marine Conservation Society said that levels of North Sea cod had risen to a sustainable level but warned that cod should be eaten occasionally in an effort for continued sustainability. Most of the cod eaten in the UK are currently imported from Iceland and northeast Arctic making cod the most imported species to Britain.

Cod had reached dangerously low levels in the North Sea which required drastic action to protect the species from being lost altogether.

While the Marine Conservation Society is happy to give the amber light for North Sea cod it said “This is a milestone for North Sea cod, the job is not done yet.� According to the society there are nine other species on the red list in the North East Atlantic.

Cod spans over a thousand years on four continents, Vikings and the Basques pursued cod across the Atlantic. It was the

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there are other nations in the world suffering poverty at the same catastrophic proportions, or worst.

However, lighter skin tones perhaps doesn’t sell poverty to the extent, much the same as using females in advertising campaigns in a; sex sells environment.

In the case of poverty-darker skin tone sells poverty.

The Global Inability to Eradicate Poverty

By David Kalloo The UN has again dreamt up another brilliant idea for solving extreme poverty, injustice and ending climate change. On September 25th 193 world leaders signed the UN Global Goals, with a 17 goals scheme with the general impetus to eliminate extreme poverty, fight injustice and end climate change.

It makes one wonder how in the entire history of the UN, they have not managed to eradicate poverty in a single village, let alone a country. My question is; how on earth are they going to mastermind a plan to accomplish this across the globe?

Let us not forget Band-Aid for the millions raised worldwide for the effort of hunger and poverty, not a single village in Africa, India, Jamaica or Sri Lanka is free from poverty, yet it earned Bob Geldof a Knighthood. Clearly we can see who the obvious beneficiaries are.

Not many moons ago, former prime minister for Britain stood holding hands with Nelson Mandela and vowed to ‘Kick poverty out’ so far the only thing that has been kicked out is Gordon Brown and the Labour party. Be assured that not a single Director or CEO for Global Goals will be working for free.

However, the hundreds of thousands of volunteers from the 193 countries that

The root of poverty cannot be dealt with in foreign lands when locally; the issue is given scant courtesy. Just log on to the Global Goals website and you would find that it is plastered with African faces. Once again dehumanising a continent as being the world’s most destitute, on the planet. It is images such as these that I abhor. Mainly, because 23

have signed up with Global Goals will be giving their time and efforts free of charge.

where the land its resources are being raped for the benefit of the West.

Since its inception Global Goals claims it has spent over â‚Ź910m in more than 50 countries yet it has no record to show that it has eradicated poverty in at least a small village anywhere on the planet. I am not by any means saying that charitable aid has not helped some people in many different ways and transformed the lives of a select few in different parts of the world. However, for over three decades and the millions spent and, raised by good wishers, the level of poverty today should not exist in any city, town, village or country.

Britain as the leading financial hub in the world cannot, domestically solve its own poverty problems. There are hundreds sleeping rough in London alone and millions living below the poverty marker. If Britain can demonstrate that it is capable of solving its own poverty crisis, I can safely say that there is hope that the model can be used to tackle poverty on a wider scale.

There must be a model by which to expedite a sustainable plan to at least narrow the margin of poverty.

Reading the Global Goals mission statement gives the impression of a well crafted sales pitch devised by exorbitantly priced corporate identity creators whose fees alone could possibly eradicate poverty in many towns in their own city, let alone in another county.

Poverty cannot be eradicated unless there is a model plan that could be implemented into a working system thereby creating employment through a sustainable scheme regardless of city, village, town or country and when the profits from such ventures are not siphoned by the very conglomerates seemingly acting in good fate, then I believe we could be on the road to bringing some hope for people trapped in destitution.

If Global Goals and the UN are hell bent on working ‘towards ensuring that the poorest and most vulnerable in our world and those affected by humanitarian crises have access to the fundamental rights of life, including but not limited to adequate shelter, food, water and sanitation, healthcare and education’ why on earth are they allowing places like Kenya, where water is short supply to satiate the appetite of the West with their dwindling resources?. There are hundreds of such projects across Africa and so-called third world countries

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Miss Gabrielle Joseph (Miss North London) Grand Finalist Miss Junior Teen Great Britain 2015

competition from across Great Britain to be named as one of the grand finalists in this nation wide contest.

15 year old Gabrielle of Trinidadian parents, was born and lives in North London , she attends Skinner’s Academy says all her family , friends and school have been very supportive of her involvement in pageants as it has had a absolute positive impact on her school achievements and has built up her confidence considerably.

Since winning Miss Teen Caribbean UK, Gabrielle had been doing a lot of appearances as a teen ambassador for the Caribbean, now she is broadening her horizons, to embrace her British culture she continues to models, perform street dance with her local performing arts school, and does professional makeup for fashion shows and photo shoots. She aspires to follow a career in the fashion and entertainment industry as an entrepreneur.

She says‘I am so excited to have made it to the finals of a national competition, it is a great achievement, I feel proud and privileged to be a visible, positive young female role model for peers of my age group, you are never too young to explore your talents or pursue your dreams, hard work, technique, and dedication will help you succeed. Being a young ambassador committed to so many activities does mean sometimes I miss out on fun with my friends , but there are a lot of girls who wish they could have the opportunities ,I get ?

Former Miss Teen Caribbean UK 2014, Gabrielle Joseph has now won a place in the grand finals of Miss Junior Teen Great Britain 2015/16. Gabrielle from North London, England has beaten off

The pageant is raising funds and awareness for the charity Together for 25

short lives, who help to support terminally or severely ill British children and their families. in their time of need. Please check out their website www.togetherforshortlives.org.uk

Please email mariajoseph732@gmail.com or call 07974321645 If you would like more info about Miss Teen Great Britain, the event or taking part, you check online www.missteengreatbritain.co.uk or email info@missteengreatbritain.co.uk

Gabrielle along with other teenagers from across Great Britain will compete for the crown in a spectacular grand final. The winner of Miss Teen Great Britain will walk away with some incredible prizes – including £500!

The grand final of Miss Teen Great Britain will be held 24th -25th October 2015 at The Globe in Blackpool. The weekend of Miss Teen Great Britain is set to be full of fun, with the finalists enjoying a Beauty Queen Challenge Day, a pyjama diva party and much more!

You can register your support for Gabrielle Joseph, by liking her model/dancer/makeup artist community group Facebook page also the MISS TEEN GREAT BRITAIN facebook page send supportive messages for her , clearly stating Gabrielle Joseph” MISS NORTH LONDON”.

Gabrielle wishes to thank everyone for their on going support. Gabrielle would be honoured to receive invitations to appear, or speak at any North London community or charitable events, especially ones that involve young people like herself.

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JUS SOLI to Premiere at Raindance Film Festival JUS SOLI has been Officially Selected for Raindance Film Festival as part of the Radical Agendas short film programme

Friday 2nd October, Midday at the Vue Cinema Piccadilly 19 Lower Regent Street, London SW1Y 4LR JUS SOLI opens up a discourse on the Black British experience; interrupting the emotional transition between generations and questioning what it means to be British.

An experimental film that charts the changing emotions of Britain's Black population, from a Caribbean on the SS Windrush: full of hope and love for the “motherland” to a disaffected British youth angry, alienated and marginalised in British society. Splicing together archive footage, filmed scenes, sounds and images to build an image of Britain struggling to relinquish its colonial powers.

The film shines light on the under represented tragedy of 13 British youths killed in The New Cross House Fire, 18 January 1881.

Drawing on feelings and emotions of the time the film opens up a discussion on race and immigration, making a powerful statement about identity and belonging. The current migrant crisis in Europe and Donald Trump's recent comments highlight the need for constructive discourse on these issues.

The film features a powerful performance from Nicholas Pinnock ("Fortitude,"Topboy") and a never heard before re-recording of "New Craas Massahkah" from acclaimed dubpoet Linton Kwesi Johnson.

Created by London film collective Somebody Nobody after securing funding through the Ideas Tap short film award. Creating films with visceral potency Somebody Nobody construct experiences that leave viewers with questions and challenges to assimilate ideas.

Executive produced by James Rogan and Paulette Randall MBE Paulette Randall, said: “JUS SOLI is a deeply moving and emotionally charged

experience which reminds us never to forget."

Trailer: https://vimeo.com/106484999

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On Sale Now

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Is rum ready to be crowned as king of spirits? the rules vary immensely from country to country. This poses a great challenge to rum in today's world where consumers are more and more enlightened and demanding when it comes to transparency on manufacturing methods and purity of a product. This is particularly true for connoisseurs of fine spirits.

Readers who follow discussion around fine spirits may have seen articles claiming that rum will be the next "big thing" in the world of fine aged spirits.

The suggestion is that after the decades of whisky, single malt in particular, dominating the scene, rum will be the next fad that connoisseurs will turn their attention towards. But is rum really ready for the pole position yet?

Several obstacles remain in the way to glory and recognition as the king of spirits. Connoisseurs tend not to take rum very seriously yet for a number of reasons.

Most of today's rum sold in the market as "pure" rum actually contains a number of additives in the bottled spirit.

These additives are there to enhance the flavour and make the spirit more pleasant to the consumers. The most commonly used additive is sugar, which softens the mouth feel or rum, and makes it taste sweet on the palate. All the sugar in rum is added to it by the bottler after distillation. Rum in its natural form is actually totally dry as no sugars survive the distillation process.

How much sugar bottled rum contains varies a lot but the amount is typically between 5 - 50 grams per litre. Other additives that rum may contain include glycerine (used in spirits to give a smoother palate) and artificial or natural flavouring essences like vanillin.

Problem is none of these are actually mentioned anywhere on the label or in the marketing of the products. For comparison, Single Malt whisky is not allowed to contain any such additives, nor is Bourbon or Irish whiskey.

Rum is made in nearly 100 countries across the world. All these nations have their own views and traditions of how to make this spirit. What is commonly agreed on is that it is a spirit derived from sugar cane, more precisely from the cane juice, or in most cases from the molasses that is left after the extraction of sugar from the juice. But this is where the common understanding of what is rum ends. No international legislation or rules exist to govern and control making of rum despite of many such initiatives.

This is largely what separates rum from Cognac, Armagnac, and Canadian whisky. Scotch single malts, or American Bourbons, all of which are made in a well-defined region or a single country, under strict regulations controlling the definition of the product. Each rumproducing country typically has its own legislation for production of spirits, and

Mika Jansson 29

Now available online at Amazon or30 to order a copy direct please contact Michelleyaa@waywivewordz.com

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