The Phoenix Newspaper - February 2013 by The Phoenix Newspaper

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FEBRUARY 2013

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Rajanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Poetry Corner - Page 17

WIN WIN WIN COMPETITIONS

Simply Slim Sessions and Home Renovation Show Tickets to be won - Pages 12 and 24

Saluting Absolutely Fabulous Joanna

ecently honoured for her incredible 40-year TV career at the NTA Awards, typically Joanna Lumley took that opportunity to celebrate championing the cause of the Gurkhas, one of her many charity causes.

Joanna is, of course, best known for playing chain-smoking maneater Patsy Stone in hit sitcom AbFab, yet her impressive CV boasts hit shows like The New Avengers, Sapphire And Steel, Jam & Jerusalem as well as appearances in Lewis, Marple and Coronation Street.

She helped Gurkhas who retired before 1997 to win the right to settle in the UK. Gurkha welfare groups and the Home office estimate that about 8,000 former soldiers and their families have since moved to Britain.

Continued on Page 5

Sworn in for a second term Page 3

The gift of technology; Western Union donates computers to JA schools - Page 2

Page 2

The Phoenixâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;February 2013

NEWS

Partnership to bridge education gap in JA

H Tributes pour in for Lord Tarsem King

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Programme. Western Union are working in partnership with the Kiwanis Club of New Kingston (KCNK) creating new, fully stocked computer lab for over 500 students. With early childhood education a priority, public/private partnerships are a necessity. KCNK refurbished the computer lab, their venture for their 2012/2013 Major Project. Sharon Williams, Immediate Past President of KCNK, ex-

plained: "The needs of the school were voiced by Father Dorsey at a function attended by our then Chairman of the Youth Services Committee, Christina Rowe. Having launch our Bringing Up Grades (BUGS) programme we were moved to further assist in developing the learning skills of the students, hence this project. Partnerships are undoubtedly an effective method of bridging the financial gap. "The power of partnerships can-

Over

l Lord Tarsem King Keith Davies said: "I knew Tarsem for nearly 30 years and worked very closely with him in his role as chair of the West Bromwich East Labour group. He was a leading light for West Bromwich for many years and a wonderful representative for Sandwell." He was 75.

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not be denied," affirms Joan-Marie Powell, Managing Director of Grace Kennedy Money Services, operators of Western Union in Jamaica. "The education of our children deserves unselfish and collective effort by all of Jamaica. We encourage other corporate entities and foundations to forge partnerships like this. The Ministry of Education cannot do it alone".

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ributes are still being paid to Lord Tarsem King of West Bromwich who died suddenly in London last month. A former Leader of Sandwell Council and Mayor of the borough, he served on a number of key committees, before being elevated to the House of Lords where he became a life peer and the first Sikh member. Lord King became an Honorary Alderman in Sandwell in 2008 and then an Honorary Freeman the following year. At his funeral, Sandwell Council leader Darren Cooper said: "As a former leader of the council Lord King made a fantastic contribution to the borough which continued when he was elevated to the House of Lords. He will be sadly missed by all members of the community in Sandwell who he served tirelessly. Sandwell Mayor Councillor

oly Rosary Primary School in Jamaica has been fitted with computers this year courtesy of the remittance giant Western Union. Some JMD$9 million dollars worth of computers will be distributed to 13 schools across the island as a culmination courtesy of the remittance giant Western Union as part of their 2012 I-PLEDGE (I Promise to Lend Encouragement to Develop Growth in Education')

The Phoenix–February 2013

Page 3

NEWS

From ‘Yes We Can’, Obama continues the journey

t was another star-studded day as President Barack Obama swore-in for a second term in US office. From Denzel Washington to Katy Perry, Aretha Franklin to Kelly Clarkson, Beyonce to James Taylor, the great and the good of business, sports, the arts and beyond rubbed shoulders with a million other people, as the President delivered a more assertive side to himself as he spoke of the journey America still has left to trek, stating the importance of unity in helping make the world a better place for all. Based on a theme of “Faith in

America’s Future,” with an overall message centring on equality he paid tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the Civil Rights movement as the country celebrated the national holiday. Paying homage to leaders of the past he said: “The preservation of our individual freedoms ultimately requires collective action. Our journey is not complete until all our children, from the streets of Detroit to the hills of the Appalachia to the quiet lanes of Newton, know that they are cared for and cherished and are always safe from harm.” Following the ceremony, the

first family participated in the Inaugural Parade. The parade featured floats honoring the home states of the president and vice president as well as floats dedicated to the civil rights movement and King. Later that day, the Obamas and Bidens attended the Commanderin-Chief Ball, at which the invited guests were the men and women of the armed services. Jennifer Hudson performed Al Green’s “Let’s Stay Together” as the Obamas danced. President Obama sang a small snippet of the song on his campaign trail in 2012 Send online today at

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Here you can help give shelter to young people living on the streets and protection to those living with domestic abuse. In Africa, hundreds of thousands of people can be protected against malaria and whole communities be provided with fresh water and life-saving vaccines. Again headed by the legend that is comedian, Lenney Henry, array of the biggest names in entertainment, sports, business and beyond will be doing something funny for money on March 15. So, make sure you don’t miss out.

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years on and it’s getting better and better. Red Nose Day is back with us again and everybody is gearing up to polish their noses and be prepared to go all out to raise much more money than we ever did. From kindergartens to universities, offices, community centres, football grounds, shops, clubs, in fact, everywhere, there will be fundraising efforts to transform the lives of countless people, both here in the UK and abroad, in Africa.

*For full Terms and Conditions please visit moneygrameurosport.com. Sends to Nigeria not available online. **No purchase necessary, terms and conditions apply, please visit www. facebook.com/moneygram for further details on how to enter. Post Office and Thomas Cook are agents of MoneyGram International Limited in the provision of money transfer services. Post Office and the Post Office logo are registered trade marks of Post Office Ltd. MoneyGram International Limited is an authorized payment institution regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial service Authority. MoneyGram and the Globe are trademarks of MoneyGram. All other marks are property of their respective owners. © 2012 MoneyGram. All right reserved.

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The Phoenix–February 2013

NEWS Adoption Drive - Lambeth

ou never know what a child may achieve in the future if they are given the right start in life. 80 per cent of children in Lambeth's care are of mixed or Black parentage and deserve a safe and nurturing home. A groundbreaking advertising campaign aimed at recruiting more adopters for boys of mixed or Black parentage was launched by the council in November, running through until the end of January. It was the first time a local authority used commercial television advertising to encourage adoption. A commercial broadcast on OHTV Sky 199 told the story of a Lambeth man, played by actor Fraser James, who was adopted and went on to becomes Britain's first Black Prime Minister, which included filming at Number 10 Downing Street. A docu-film was also commissioned and includes interviews with X-Factor’s Ashley John-Baptiste, who experienced care and foster homes and Songs of Praise presenter, former Blue Peter host, DianeLouise Jordan. Karen McKellar's moving story how she became a mum to Grace, a Lambeth baby who was abandoned at birth is inspirational, unbelievable but true. The film also features Lambeth social workers who discuss the myths and issues why Black boys may not be considered by adoptive parents. Lambeth is planning to double the number of children who are adopted every year.

The Sikh Fortress Turban: Unravelling the history of the turban

ne of the most distinctive symbols of the Sikh faith and history is on show in Birmingham with the ‘Sikh Fortress Turban’ exhibition at the city’s Museum and Art Gallery as part of a British Museum tour. Exploring the story of the warrior’s magnificent turban, it includes contributions from Birmingham’s Sikh community explaining why the turban remains important to them today. Launched in the presence of distinguished, diverse guests including Gurcharan Singh Chandan, Advisor to the Nishkam Centre, one of the eminent sponsors of the showcase, Professor Christopher Bailey from Cambridge Universi-

ty, a prominent speaker on Indian history and learned photographer, Dr. Vanley Burke who has travel and taught vehemently throughout the sub-continent, you can see a replica blue clothed steel blade Sikh Akali-Nihang turban (dastaar boonga), historic swords, daggers, metal throwing discs, plus much more up close and personal. At the Sikh Fortress Turban, a free exhibition, you can unravel the stories of the Sikh turban and discover how and why they symbolise Sikh faith and identity.

A British Museum tour

Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery

Sikh Akali-Nihang turban (dastaar boonga), blue cloth (21st century) with steel blades and quoits, Punjab, India, 19th century. © The Trustees of the British Museum

A British Museum tour

Sikh Akali-Nihang turban (dastaar boonga), blue cloth (21st century) with steel blades and quoits, Punjab, India, 19th century. © The Trustees of the British Museum

Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery

The Phoenix–February 2013

Page 5

NEWS

Absolutely Fabulous Joanna Continued from Front Page

Party for charity supporter brings in £6,300 A l Acorns Children’s Hospice Chief Executive David Strudley welcomes new trustee Mark Hopton

corns Children’s Hospice supporter Mark Hopton has celebrated his appointment as a trustee of the charity with a vital £6,300 donation to help provide care for local life limited children. The money was raised in lieu of gifts at parties to mark his retirement from business life at KPMG. Mark, of Solihull, has been sup-

porting Acorns for more than ten years at fundraising events. Joanne Danaher, Acorns’ Community Fundraising Officer, said: “Mark has been an excellent supporter of Acorns. It costs £750 a day to care for children at the hospice and we rely on voluntary donations for the majority of our income, so it is wonderful to have such tremendous support over many years. “

Mark said: “As one of the most deserving and stand-out local charities, I am absolutely delighted to be joining Acorns as a trustee. At retirement parties for some 200 colleagues, family and friends, instead of giving presents they were encouraged to donate to Acorns.” Thanks to their generosity £6,300 was raised.

Council move to make partying safer

artying in Clapham was made safer with a new high street hub for people who are feeling vulnerable, have minor injuries or need help. The Clapham Night-time Hub, a pilot project by Lambeth Council, opened to revelers for the first time last December, at the Methodist Church in Clapham High Street and despite concerns about high levels of drunkenness, crime and anti-social behavior in the area it ran until the first weekend in February with Cllr Jack Hopkins, Cabinet member for Safer Communities, saying: “Clapham High Street is very popular on a Friday and Saturday night draw-

ing big crowds. And while most people have a great time, too many people are falling victim to crime or drinking too much.” With qualified medical staff on hand, The Hub offered somewhere safe for people to seek

shelter, have a cup of tea, get help if they’ve become separated from friends or assistance getting home if they feel threatened. More than 20 drunk or injured people were helped, with hub

staff also cleaning up broken bottles, stopping people urinating in the street and helping to re-unite potentially vulnerable people with their friends. The Mint group which runs Infernos, a busy nearby nightclub, provided SIA registered security staff, help book taxis and cleaning staff so the church and its surrounds remain tidy. The Methodist Church, NHS Lambeth, Clapham Safer Neighbourhood Team, Sainsbury’s supermarket in Clapham, Street Pastors, the Red Cross, St John Ambulance service and volunteer resident were all also involved in the Lambeth Council Community Safety team led project.

“There would be no Great Britain, no National Health Service and no welfare state was it not for the blood spilt by Gurkhas and others to protect this country,” she said. “British people are fair-minded and believe in loyalty to close friends. I was just grateful that I had a small part to play in helping these fine men and their families,” she continued. A long time supporter of Survival International, an organisation

formed for the rights of indigenous tribal peoples seeking to help them to determine their own future, Joanna is a patron of Tree Aid, PENHA (the Pastoral and Environmental Network in the Horn of Africa), the Peter Pan Moat Brae Trust and Trust in Children which helps children from poor backgrounds to access education and opportunities. She is now also actively working on ridding young women of the “laddish” image, often seeing them drunk and vulnerable to robbed or rape.

“Something in our society that caused young women to behave badly has got to stop,” she said. She will not stop until her work is done.

Page 6

The Phoenix–February 2013

NEWS

New Birmingham scheme to tackle low level community disputes. l Bob Tyler, Jacqueline Harris and Lorraine Lewis

By Joe Holt

Features Journalist

joe.holt@thephoenixnewspaper.com

Great Hampton Row Birmingham B19 3JG

invites you to the launch of

RESTORATIVE JUSTICE

Community Justice Alliance Pilot on Wednesday 6 February 2013 5.30pm Refreshments - 6.00pm Start

Community Hub in Birmingham has been selected to pilot a Neighbourhood Restorative Justice Scheme, in an effort to tackle low-level crime in the area. West Midlands Police received funding from Birmingham Community Safety Partnerships to run the pilot project and St Georges Hub was considered as the ideal place to do it. It will cover the Lozells and East Handsworth area and will deal with lesser offences, such as anti-social behaviour and neighbour disputes. The project, which has been named the Community Justice Alliance, launches at St George’s Community Hub this month and will involve bringing both offenders/harmers and victims/harmed

Community panels are based on the idea that anti-social behaviour and conflicts that occur within a community can be best addressed by members of that community munity

me ar

Ha rm

C om

To book a place please contact Lorraine Lewis Restorative Justice Co-ordinator Tel: 0121 236 9177 or Email: lorraine.stgeorgeshub@gmail.com

l Lorraine Lewis

together in face-to-face meetings. All the community volunteers have received facilitator training from Restorative Solutions, to construct resolutions to the disputes. Those involved in at St George’s believe that it will resolve these issues without the need to criminalise individuals. Not only will this save taxpayers money, but it is arguably more effective in reducing re-offending. It is also wide reaching; it incorporates people of all ages, from teenagers to adults, and whole families have a platform to voice their opinion. The Director of the Community Hub, Dr Bob Tyler, told The Phoenix, “We have spent millions of pounds on justice in the UK, and rightly so, but the notion of Restorative Justice is about providing an economical alternative to locking people up.” Low level crime is something that often affects us all at some point in our lives, and it is a prob-

lem that is ubiquitous in inner-city communities. Dealing with the issue is difficult and there is a growing opinion that new approaches need to be considered. The project originally piloted in Sheffield, and it acted as a well needed opportunity to tackle small scale disputes without having to always resort to judicial intervention. Many of the cases were satisfied with an apology from the wrongdoer. When we visited the Hub, we spoke to Lorraine Lewis, Restorative Justice Co-ordinator, who has recruited the volunteer facilitators and co-ordinated the project. Lorraine has taken part in a great deal of voluntary work in Birmingham with ex-offenders, drug and alcohol addicts and people with mental health issues, as well as working with young people. One of the crucial aspects of the project is that it empowers the victims/harmed. “Restorative Justice gives victims/ harmed a voice. Usually the only time that you really hear how a victim has felt about a crime is in court” Lorraine said. By calmly talking about the disputes with the victims/harmed, it is easier for the offenders/harmer to understand the impact of their actions. Jacqueline, who is one of the volunteer facilitators for the pilot, decided to get involved as she argues that there are genuine people who can be unnecessarily criminalised as a result of stupid actions or a lack of maturity. “There are a lot of petty little things that can easily become big, but those involved are not warranted to be locked up.” Although the concept of restorative justice has been proven to be successful, funding remains limited for the time being, and it relies upon volunteers from the community to support the project. “St George’s is unique because there are so many different organisations based here, so we were able to get volunteers who already work at St Georges to work with us on the project” said Lorraine, who is eager to raise awareness of the project in order to recruit more volunteers and to encourage more agencies, like Midland Heart, to work with the Hub . There will be a official launch ceremony at The Hub on Great Hampton Row in Newtown on the 6th of February, where people will be able to hear more about the project and have the opportunity to ask about volunteering and partnering. Photographs - Tom Cotter

The Phoenix–February 2013

Readers Letters

Citizenship Dear Editor,

2012 was a year all about celebrating 50 years of independence. 12-months of showing just how great a contribution Jamaica has, and still is, making to the world. Into a new year and in the aftermath, for Jamaicans of a certain age and residing in the UK, pre independence, there’s a major concern that seems to be overlooked by too many who has been in this country for over 50-years – citizen issues. I came to the UK in 1958, age 3. By the age of 6, for whatever reason, I was taken into care until the age of 16. By the time I was in my 20s I returned to my place of birth, under a Jamaican passport, as, until quite recently, Jamaica was the only travelling I knew or did. I was blissfully unaware of the plight that was later to unfold. I tried to renew my British passport which was returned with the explanation that I am not a British citizen and would therefore need to apply for the said citizenship. Of course this came as a tremendous shock, stripping me of my citizenship, identity and emotional questions. I am 56-years-old, was married for 35 year, with three grown-up children (all born in the Wyre Forest) and lived in the UK for over 53 years.

NEWS

Stroke Survivors to be recognised

Dear Editor,

As a long-time supporter of the Stroke Association, I’m calling on your readers to nominate someone who’s been affected by stroke for the charity’s Life After Stroke Awards. These Awards recognise the courage and determination of survivors as they struggle to recover after stroke and celebrate the fantastic support given by carers and volunteers. I’ve been personally affected myself and was in danger of having a stroke following a brain aneurysm

in 2006. I’m still at very high risk and know how frightening the condition can be. A stroke happens in instant but its effects last a lifetime. The Stroke Association is doing great work supporting people affected by stroke and celebrating life after stroke. The closing date 28 February 2013 and you can find out how to make a nomination or get more information by visiting www.stroke. org.uk/lasa. Yours sincerely Karren Brady (Life After Stroke Awards Patron)

Celebrate 150 years of Independent Age

Dear Editor,

Now that we’ve returned to our normal day-to-day routines why not add something a little different to your life this year? Why not make a real difference to older people’s lives as well as your own? 2013 isn’t just a new year for us. It marks the 150-year anniversary of Independent Age, supporting older people in need. To celebrate this, we are asking 150 people to raise money by taking on a personal challenge, which will help us to continue to provide information, advice and support for thousands of older people. What you do is completely up to you. You can choose something

from the array of experiences we’ve suggested, such as taking a tandem, skydive, a fancy-dress charity run, or even trekking the Great Wall of China. Whatever you choose, we’ll support you every step of the way to make sure your challenge is something you’ll never forget. You can rest assured in the knowledge that it will be a huge achievement in more ways than one. We hope this will be an experience which stays with you forever – and it will be one which makes a lasting difference to the lives of our elders. Yours sincerely, Amy Scrivener Fundraising Officer Independent Age

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This also leaves me in the position of having to seek right to leave, which I find ironic given the amount of years I’ve lived here.

I would like all Jamaicans in the same position to contact us even if you have already paid for citizenship. Collectively this issue can be taken to the House of Commons to be reviewed, so if you know anyone who has gone through, or is going through, the same citizenship issues, please get in touch: Colonial Citizenship Enquiry: CCE@pressofficeuk.co.uk

Send money for a chance to win Brussels Airlines flights to Africa

‘Year of the Snake’ to be bigger than ever

wide array of music, dance and exhibitions will be on offer as Birmingham’s Chinese community celebrate the ‘Year of the Snake.’ With elaborate displays and exhibitions of dragon and lion dancing, acrobatic and cultural highlights, parades, stalls and a spectacular fireworks finale, the Chinese New Year in Birmingham will be one of the biggest in the world. Following the success of previous celebrations that saw record crowds attending in 2012, Chinese New Year in Birmingham 2013 promises to be even bigger and better.

Lord Mayor of Birmingham Councillor John Lines and Leader of Birmingham City Council Councillor Sir Albert Bore will mark the start of the celebration by performing the traditional Ceremony of Dotting the Dragon’s eyes. Festival Committee Chair, Jeffrey Yap said: “Each year we are thrilled to welcome people from all members of all communities to join in the fun and enjoy celebrating one of the oldest celebrated festivals in the world. Thanks to the involvement of our major sponsors, this year will be bigger and better than ever before for the people of Birmingham.”

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We were not illegal immigrants, but invited colonial guests (British citizens until 1962).

Share the Passion

As all Jamaicans living in the UK at that time, both of my parents were offered free British citizenship when Jamaica went independent

I feel we have a case to be answered as to the responsibilities of important documents whilst in care and under the social services department at the time. This issue uncovers a kaleidoscope of extremely important responsibility issues with wider implications.

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The Phoenix–February 2013

BUSINESS

ACAS to overcome predicted tensions

l Councillor Peter Bilson

Wolverhampton Breaking Records

olverhampton City Council’s regeneration chief has welcomed news of the city’s record-breaking number of business startups. New research from Duport.co.uk reveals that 384 companies formed between July and September last year, more than any other quarter on record for the city. It also shows that there was a record level of net company growth. During the third quarter the company register increased by 163 which is more than for any third quarter in the history of the city. Cabinet Member for Economic Regeneration and Prosperity Cllr Peter Bilson said: “This is encouraging and a good indicator of the fact that Wolverhampton is a place where new ideas and business can nurture and develop enabling a better economy for all. Our ‘open for business’ message is delivering tangible results.” Duport.co.uk Managing Director, Peter Valatis, said: “The statistics show that Wolverhampton is a city on the up. The record level of company formation is a really positive sign for the area. The arrival of new businesses will strengthen the economy, leading to greater prosperity in years to come.” The Duport led data contained in the report was assimilated and analysed using public record data from sources including Companies House, Office for National Statistics and Ordnance Survey.

alcolm Boswell, West Midlands Area Director of ACAS, Britain’s top employment relations service, has predicted that pay will continue to cause tension with ongoing austerity measures within some sectors and skills shortages. He also highlights the need for employers to motivate and engage workforces. "With forecasts for continuing long-term austerity measures and a possible triple-dip we may very well see increasing tensions and conflict around pay,” he said. Suggesting that employers could be more inventive he then said: “Motivating and engaging staff by other ways rather than

Ammo’s "Equal Opps" is an ugly phrase, no doubt about it. Never in the doing, but definitely in the speaking. It joins Special Ops, Belly Flops, Sticky Pops and Having the Chop round by the back door of the English language. How did such a noble cause

pay may well be required.” Mindful that this could clash with the desire by employees to catch up with the cost of living, he sees one way of engaging with staff may be to offer more flexible working arrangements: “The struggling economy will continue to influence Britain’s workplaces,” he says. “The Gov- l Malcolm Boswell ernment is proposing to extend ACAS’ new Chief Executive is the right to request flexible working to everyone not just parents Anne Sharp and she will set out to ensure that major projects, inand carers. It is vital to listen and engage cluding early conciliation, move with your workforce. Every or- forward effectively and effiganisation's success is built on ciently to improve organisations its people - if employers get this and working life through better right then they are likely to have employment relations. happier, more motivated staff and a more successful business.”

find itself keeping such bad company? Trevor Philips won't be dropping in on us any time soon to check our Special Ops policy. Which is a shame, because local businesses would benefit from a few swipes of his Government Procurement Card. Today, Equal Opportunities can be reduced to a cut-and-paste paragraph tacked to the end of a job description or procurement protocol; something to deliver rather than to delight. I want to rescue it from the tick-box oblivion of public sector vocabulary - let's put the "opportunity" back into Equal Opps! Opportunity, of course, is the oxygen of entrepreneurship; it's what we need to keep trading, to keep hiring, and to keep paying

UX-TSI, the accredited for automotive and roadside aplaboratory services plications. It also has a strategic company specialising agreement with the National Physin the testing of pho- ical Laboratory - the UK’s national tonics, energy-efficient lighting measurement standards laboratory and consumer products, has - to provide software and training secured £430,000 inservices for lighting vestment to expand and laser safety apfacilities at its stateplications. of-the-art laboratoDr Gareth Jones, ries in Birmingham is Chief Executive of and headquarters in LUX-TSI said: “We Bridgend. experienced very A preferred partner of strong growth in global testing company 2012 and have signifUL (Underwriters’ icantly strengthened Laboratories), it is con- l Dr Gareth Jones our partnership with tinually under demands from UK UL, offering testing and certificafirms wishing to certify products tion services for LED lighting and for a worldwide markets. other products, with growth proThe testing specialist is also ap- jections for this year even strongproved to carry out photometric er, enabled by the new investment testing of lighting and signage through a combination of public products under the BSI (British and private funding. Standards Institution) guidelines

Equal Opps – Really our share into the UK treasury. At Punch we've developed and promoted Black music and music culture across the region and UK for years, through shows, seminars, exhibitions and books. It’s the diversity of the team that ensures we identify and pursue opportunities as they arise. And I when I say diverse, I mean "diverse"; not only "Black Minority Ethnic BME". We need Black, Asian and White, we need consultants, interns, freelancers and postholders to ensure we deliver with true authenticity and professionalism. If we want to thrive and survive in the next decade, everyone's got to be invited. Equality is a given - I'm an Asian boy from Aston after all

Micah Funeral Director Established Since 1975 • • • • •

LUX-TSI secures investment to expand facilities

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- but I doubt any employer reading this actually still believes that racism or sexism will make their company more effective. Managers who practised unnatural selection have evolved their businesses into extinction. Today's racists and bigots survive on the sidelines; usually on state benefits or donations from likeminded cranks. The Commission for Racial Equality has already morphed into one for Equality and Human Rights - so let's keep what we've fought for, and step up the crease to help others. And there's a business lesson here too; that SMEs survive best when they're flexible, practical and outcome focussed. And this is the lesson that I think we can kick up to the Establishment;

it takes all sorts to make things wonderful I’m off to do a Belly Flop! Ammo Talwar MBE CEO

Micah Funeral Director creates a legacy of great service

ne of the longest in operation, Micah Funeral Director will always pride itself on offering the most compassionate and sensitive service, with nothing seen as too much as they see themselves as privileged to be chosen to take a family’s loved one on their final journey. Serving Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Solihull and the wider Midlands area, they will carry out every individual’s request with the utmost dignity and attention to detail. 40-plus years experience for Funeral Director, Micah Innis, sees him offer a full range of coffins and caskets at exceptional value as well as modern and vintage hearses, horses, carriages and modern cars.

With the very least of stress, he arranges funerals for a massive list of clients by providing a helping hand with every bit of detail, much of which is often over-

looked by the grieving family of the deceased. And with that, a legacy of great service and expertise sees him as the first port-of-call for any of Britain’s multicultural communities and faiths, no matter how near or far. Micah will always make the point that his business is to serve people totally, with no half measures, saying: “It is so important to allow families to have a funeral they feel best reflects the person’s wishes, be it simple or something unusual, or elaborate. We will always endeavour to help you arrange a personal farewell.” Micah Funeral Director’s 24Hour call out service offers visits, a pick-up service from anywhere in the UK, private chapel of rest and any relevant transfer of the deceased to their own chapel of rest.

The Phoenix–February 2013

Advertorial Feature

Page 9

BUSINESS

The Stove Caribbean Cuisine and Fish & Chips Shop

ooking, presenting and serving some of the finest timehonoured Caribbean dishes ever known has really gone leaps and bounds, especially since the opening of The Stove Caribbean Cuisine Fish & Chip Shop. Offering the likes of beautifully made jerk chicken, rice + peas and curry goat, side by side with the freshest made fish, chips, pies and associated savouries, this new-style Birmingham-based eatery gives you the best of both culinary worlds under one roof. Part of the Murco petrol station and lifestyle express shopping complex on Summer Lane, Newtown, it’s created a massive stir in and around the area, and beyond, with some of the biggest businesses and organisations making here their regular call. Whether it be breakfast, lunch, teatime, any time of the day, it’s

exciting times for food-lovers. The Stove is united in its drive to take Caribbean food, along with traditionally made fish and chips, pies and sundries to the highest level, for all: “Food is the staff of life and we want to make the best accessible to absolutely everybody. We look upon this as a start to our great ambitions,” says 31-year old Mickel, who adds: “We setup this family-run business, making the most sumptuous of dishes, at the best prices, for the 21st century generation. We’ve set very high standards here.” Mickel is also looking to take The Stove Caribbean Cuisine Fish & Chip Shop food into major supermar- l

kets up and down the land, taking culinary snacks to yet another level, for their generation and the next. Order Line - 07984145779 335 Summer Lane, Birmingham B19 3QG www.thestovecaribbeancuisine.co.uk

Mickel Tomlinson and Chef Vadean McLaughlin

Photographs - Tom Cotter

Page 10

IMMIGRATION ADVICE

with Jennifer Housen

The Phoenix–February 2013

Come To England To Visit The Queen

he weather may be great for ice-skating and hockey at the moment, but as it brightens up going into the Summer, distant relatives and friends may want to make plans to visit you in the UK. With the ever tightening immigration controls, how do you ensure that your potential guests navigate the visa/entry clearance maze without too much difficul-

ty? This week, we will give you some guidance as to what you may need for a successful visitor visa application. There are various reasons that your relatives/friends may wish to come to the UK to visit. The main reason is for a vacation. To make a successful visitor visa application, the Applicant (your visitor) must meet various requirements. The essence of the requirements are (1) that when

your visitor comes to the UK, he/she intends to return home (so he/she must show ties to their home country), and (2) that there will be adequate accommodation and funds whilst your visitor is in the UK. Thus, the Applicant must prove that he/she will not be seeking employment or medical treatment, or to get married whilst in the UK, is a genuine visitor and will leave the UK after the visit, will not be selling goods or studying while in the UK, and will have accommodation and funds whilst in the UK.

Like all visas, the application must be submitted in the Applicant’s home country, although the documentation (application) can be prepared in the UK and then be sent to the Applicant. The documents required, are those which will prove the immigration requirements have been met. Thus, for example, the Applicant would need to submit bank statements in order to prove the sufficient funds requirement. The person in the UK hosting the Applicant is called the Sponsor. Whilst the onus is on the Applicant to prove the ties to his home country by showing

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020 7738 6081 (876) 754-1170 (Jamaica) To make an appointment in Birmingham call

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evidence he/she has (e.g., utility bills for residence; employment letter; payslips; evidence of family relations in the home country), the Applicant may use documents received from the Sponsor to support certain other requirements, such as bank statement and tenancy agreement or mortgage statement from the Sponsor, in order to show that the funds/UK accommodation are met.

If you and your visitor meet the requirement, there is a good chance of them visiting you in the UK. However, please note that any previous UK immigration history, or criminal convictions, may be taken into account in the consideration of his/ her visa application. Once your visitor arrives in the UK, they should not remain beyond the date of the period allowed by the visa, nor do any activity not allowed by the visitor visa.

threshold for their partner to come and live with them in the UK, a good alternative may be to submit an application for a visitor visa, so that the spouse can visit, return to their home country, and that would assist later on in a spouse settlement application, as it shows the couple’s continuing relationship being fostered. If you have any queries or concerns, contact The Immigration UK Partnership for an appointment in London or Birmingham.

For spouses who cannot meet the immigration

From The Files: A Visitor Applicant’s Story

uriel*, a British citizen, married John*, a Jamaican citizen in Jamaica, in May 2012. Immediately after the honeymoon, Muriel returned to England. Muriel intended that John would be able to make a settlement application to move to the UK to live with her. Unfortunately, because of the new immigration laws, Muriel did not meet the financial requirement as her salary was £13,000 per year. Because Muriel had no more holiday leave remaining, she and John agreed that he would visit for the Christmas 2012 period. In September 2012, John made an application to visit Muriel in the UK. He wanted to visit for three months, from October

2012 to January 2013. John submitted an application to the local British High Commission. In his application, he included Muriel’s wage slips, employment letter and tenancy agreement, as well as documentary evidence showing her immigration status in the UK. Additionally, he included his employment letter from his employment at the local flour mill, his house title, title to his car, and his own bank statement, in order to show that he had ties to Jamaica to return to. By being able to show that although his wife was in the UK, he did not intend to remain as he had his life in Jamaica, John’s application was considered and a decision sent to him within 15 days. If John had had previous convictions this would have impacted his application. As John had no criminal convictions, and he had supplied all relevant documentary evidence which was required to show that he met the threshold for a visitor visa, the visa was granted and he and Muriel had a wonderful Christmas before he returned home. They intend to make an application for him to settle with Muriel, as soon as her salary increases. *Not their real names.

Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general information purposes only. Nothing in this column, or associated pages, advertisements, documents, comments, answers, responses or other communications in connection with it should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. The information in this column and on this page, or viewing of this information does not constitute a legal relationship or legal privilege, nor is it intended to be relied upon, solely or otherwise, as a basis of legal advice for subsequent action.

http://www.facebook.com/immigrationuk

About Jennifer

ennifer Housen is a barrister-at-law qualified to practice in England & Wales. Additionally, she is an attorney-at-law qualified to practice in the USA in the state of New York, and also qualified to practice in the Caribbean island of Jamaica. Jennifer was born in Jamaica and moved to Britain as a teenager. Jennifer gained experience in immigration law having been an oversight Director of Programmes on the Immigration & Asylum Accreditation Scheme when the UK government sought to set an assessment framework all for immigration lawyers and advisors. Building on her academic experience in the area, Jennifer’s immigration practice has helped thousands of applicants with their immigration matters including entry clearance, visitor applications, deportations, removals and leave to remain. She has particular associations with the Caribbean community and has a dedicated immigration office, Immigration UK Limited, in the Jamaican capital of Kingston, which has assisted her many clients over the last few years. She has appeared as a guest adviser on immigration law on several radio and television programmes in Jamaica and the UK. With an expanding immigration practice, and conscious of the needs of her clients in the UK who she had assisted with their entry clearance visas, Jennifer opened The Immigration UK Partnership in July 2011, together with Kemesha Lynch, an experienced immigration solicitor. The Immigration UK Partnership has worked intimately with its clients in their immigration matters including detention, indefinite leave to remain, discretionary leave to remain and deportation matters. The firm continues to go from strength to strength as it takes a personal and sensitive approach to its clients and their needs. The firm further supports its clients and the community by delivering free immigration seminars at various locations/times throughout the year. The Immigration UK Partnership’s office is in Brixton, London, however Jennifer is able to see clients in Birmingham by appointment. Questions can be asked through the firm’s Facebook page, but responses are limited as individual circumstances differ and may require an appointment. Jennifer Housen, Barrister-at-law (England & Wales), Attorney-at-law (USANY & Jamaica).

The Phoenix–February 2013 Page 11

HEALTH AND FITNESS

Olympic torch hero creates ‘Funky’ London 2012 legacy

he London 2012 Olympics legacy is already bearing fruit as Birmingham based fitness coach, Leroy Henry, is testament to its effect. Fitness coach, Leroy, was one of the Olympic torch bearers last year and he is committed to making fitness more all, regardless of age and fitness levels. He’s created ‘Funkalate,’ a unique programme based on a combination of rollerblading, jazz, ballet, free running, Tai Chi and Capoeira martial arts.

Based at the Chessgrove Day Spa, in Hanbury, near Brommsgrove, Worcestercshire, classes are set to uplifting dance tracks, which is put together by Henry, a member of the British Song-

writers Guild who boasts strong musical roots - his uncle Barlo is a Kingston-based record producer.

“We are delighted to have someone of Leroy’s caliber and enthusiasm joining the fitness team at Chessgrove,” says spa manager, Richard Macklin. “His classes bring something new to the area and are great fun. It’s the perfect way for people of all fitness levels to establish an exciting wellbeing routine for 2013.” Funkalates classes are free for spa members, offers numerous benefits including increased flexibility, a better toned physique and a heightened sense of self confidence. Non members are also welcome by simply pay per session.

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Page 12

The Phoenix–February 2013

ADVERTORIAL

elt your excess fat away with a quick and painless Ultrasonic weight loss session at Simply Slim Clinic Birmingham! Most people are familiar with the downsides to trying to lose weight. It's by no means easy: regularly going to the gym or dieting is time consuming, difficult and it can be at times a lonely experience that fails to convince you that you are actually making progress. Offering a solution to these woes is a new and exciting clinic that has opened in Birmingham. Part of a franchise of 36 clinics all around the UK, Simply Slim Clinics have been offering the latest in ultrasonic liposuction over the past three years, and Matthew Black is now heading the venture into Digbeth. The concept behind Simply Slim is, well, simple. By utilising the latest technology, they are removing all of the difficulties that has been previously associated with weight loss, as they specialise in slimming their clients with a treatment that is painless, involves no surgery and delivers near instantaneous results. The magic device that produces these fabulous outcomes is called an 'Ultrasonic Cavitation Machine', although the team at Simply Slim Birmingham prefer to call him 'Dave'. A single session of the treatment lasts no longer than an hour, and it includes more than just the 30 minute ultrasonic treatment. To begin with, there is consultation from one of their trained advisers where you can decide where you want to lose weight and get a feel of your weight loss expectations. After a preliminary measurement, the ultrasonic waves are delivered via the machine's probe directly to the treatment area.

After that, the Birmingham clinic provides a exclusive 10 minute session on their vibrating 'power plate'.The ultrasound treatment is at its most effective with some form of exercise within 6 hours of treatment, and this stimulates the natural fat fighting capabilities of the body. “As we at Simply Slim Birmingham are interested in one thing, getting our clients positive results, we will give them ten minutes of Power Plate immediately after the ultrasonic treatment. It has been scientifically proven that ten minutes on a power plate is equivalent to 60 minutes worth of exercise without the need to sweat.” Matthew told the Phoenix. The power plate session can also reduce cellulite and stress levels, while at the same time improving circulation, skin appearance and increasing metabolism. Having recently won a personal battle with weight himself, clinic owner Matthew is now slim and feeling great, so being able to offer a fast and effective solution to weight problems is something that is very close to his own heart. "It was a real journey to lose weight and if this option had been here for me 12 months ago I would have gone for it. We really care, so we sit down and discuss your goals with you, and we ask you what you hope to get from the treatments. People look for the most convenient way to lose weight; This treatment is quick, the results are quick and there's none of the pain that is associated with dieting, exercise or surgery.” As much as 2cm can be lost in a single session, and their testimonials page on their website contains stories of even greater results. Due to the speed of the procedure and the fact that there is no downtime, it has proven popular with customers looking for a quick session in their lunch break or on short notice. “We find if there is a Christmas party coming up or a wedding they book a block of treatments to fit into that dress or whatever it may be.” Said Matt. “There is no down time, so you can come in, have your treatment and then go back to work, so you can even do it in your lunch

A Simply Slimmer You this year (The Easy Way) l Charlotte Crane, Matthew Black and Morgan Dandy at Simply Slim Birmingham break!" and feel very proud of that fact.” Part and parcel with the Ultrasonic Cavitation is their Aftercare package, which is as important as the treatment itself in order to keep the weight off once it has been dealt with by the treatments. In addition to their consultation from their technicians, they provide fact sheets and advice on nutrition among other things that can be done to get the best and fastest results possible. “Of course, we cannot control what customers eat once they leave, but providing that Aftercare is taken and they do what we advise them to do afterwards then it will stay gone! We understand losing weight / inches and dropping a clothes size is a journey. We embark on that journey together and motivate our clients to achieve all their goals. We basically make dreams come true

Matthew is already looked to expand his range of clinics to bring more areas in the Midlands, such as Wolverhampton, into the availability of the pioneering weight loss service. The whole of the Birmingham postcode are available to for treatment from the Digbeth Clinic and anyone above the age of 16 is eligible. Simply Slim Birmingham are offering readers of The Phoenix the chance to win 3 FREE Ultrasonic and Power Plate sessions as well as honouring their January Sale prices. Given the convenience of Simply

Photographs - Tom Cotter

Competition!

Simply Slim Birmingham have given us 3 Ultrasonic and Power Plate sessions to give away to one lucky reader! All you’ve got to do to have a chance of winning is answer this simple question: What do the team at Simply Slim Birmingham call the Ultrasonic Cavitation Machine? a) Bob b) Dave c) Steve To be in with a chance of winning, email your answer along with your full name, address and telephone number to competitions@thephoenixnewspaper.com. Competition closes at 23.59 on 27th February 2013. The first name drawn will win 3 free sessions at Simply Slim Birmingham. There is no cash alternative. Winners will be contacted in week commencing 4th March 2013.

Slim Birmingham's treatments and the exclusive offers instore for the Phoenix, there is no reason to put off dropping those extra pounds! For all the latest fat fighting tips and special offers please visit their Facebook page www.facebook.com/simplyslimbrum

Also, for readers of The Phoenix Newspaper only, the January Sale prices featured on the Simply Slim website will be honoured throughout February at Simply Slim Birmingham. Simply quote “PHNX10” when booking, and take this voucher along with you to your appointment. l “Dave” - The UItrasonic Cavitation Machine

You can find Simply Slim at Simply Slim Birmingham Ltd Digbeth Court 162-164 High Street Digbeth Birmingham. B12 0LD 0800 6122844

The Phoenix–February 2013 Page 13

VALENTINES DAY SPECIAL

The Cosmopolitan Cutting Edge Entertainment Magazine

www.streetcredmagazine.com

elcome to the new exciting Street Cred Magazine entertainment and lifestyle section to be featured every month in the Phoenix Newspaper. Myself and assistant editor Daniel Riley will bring you the most funky and glamorous news in the Fashion world, weighty news in the music industry and keeping you in the know with what’s

really hot in gadgets. Street Cred brings to you what we see as the in thing. We are very excited about our collaboration with The Phoenix as we are able to reach more readers every month and of course these pages are only a teaser from our 100 page digital edition which you can view online at our website above. SC is always cutting edge bright and devoted to bringing

positive news to our readers. We also accept editorial contributions and ideas you may have for our section. Street Cred entertainment is one of the biggest and most credible features you will ever find in a newspaper. We are a 15 year established name brand so what we will bring to you will be the very best international news.

t started off as a cyber wedding shop, now, for the perfect start for your perfect wedding, what better way to start planning than at the Bridal Show 2013?

you the best start to the year with two truly inspirational events to guide you through your big day, from start to finish and beyond.

After getting the best Valentine’s Day ideas at the show at Leicester City FC’s King Power Stadium on February 14, don’t miss the second perfect cost-effective exhibition solution at the home of Aston Villa FC, Villa Park, on 23 and 24.

Check out the newest edition of Street Cred out now! Mark Dwayne Daniel Riley Ian McLaughlin

Bridal Show 2013 alentines ecial p V S I Brought to you in conjunction with some of the most prestigious venues in the Midlands, the originators of what was the muchheralded Asian Bridal Show brings

Providing well over 100 stands, with some of the country’s biggest names in wedding planning under one roof, the Bridal Show 2013 will be the ideal market place for your big day.

With glamorous and breathtaking fashion shows on hand, the totally free events are both ‘must-goes’ for blushing brides and grooms.

February has come around once again. The snow has melted and so have our hearts, so we at the Phoenix have thought of some different and inspirational ways to express your love to whoever is special to

you on this Valentine's Day. There's something to suit everyone; whether you are on a budget or even if you are a Valentine's Day cynic. In keeping with our close community links, we have both charitable and

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Page 14

The Phoenix–February 2013

BIG SCREEN

The Cosmopolitan Cutting Edge Entertainment Magazine

Life of Pi BIGScreen Edited by Ian McLaughlin

ife of Pi is technically, the most beautiful looking film of the year. A technical marvel. I’ve never heard of or even read Yann Martel’s Booker prize-winning novel about the story of an Indian teenager named Pi shipwrecked in a lifeboat with a ravenous Bengal tiger. They encounter many marvels,

(PG) *****

a sky full of flying fish, an ocean swimming with iridescent jellyfish, a carnivorous island. All these wonders and more are brought to the screen with dreamlike intensity. Ang Lee has brought to the screen a seemingly unfilmable story with breathtaking mastery of computer animation. His previous achievements – such as Brokeback

NEWS!! Spielberg’s Robot Armageddon is on hold!

teven Spielberg had planning to make the film version of the novel Robopocalypse with Anne Hathaway this summer, for a April 24 2014 release. But reasons unknown the project has been put on hold. ‘Cloverfield’ writer Drew Goddard drafted a script for the story, in which a high-functioning artificial intelligence turns against mankind and wages war to wipe every living thing off the planet. In addition to Hathaway, who would have played an unspecified

role, "The Avengers" star Chris Hemsworth was also in talks to co-star. According Hathaway's representatives “the project was a go.” But Spielberg has indicated boredom with action films in some recent interviews, and though no explanation was offered for the delay, aside from a statement from Spielberg's rep that it wasn't ready and was too expensive to move forward without a polished script, the "Lincoln" filmmaker may simply not be as enamored with the brutal extinction story as he once

was. DreamWorks brought the rights to Daniel H. Wilson's novel long before it was published in June 2011. It was originally set to be ready for this July, but last May 20th Century Fox (which is co-financing the film with DreamWorks, and Disney's Touchstone distributing) announced it would be pushed to April 2014. Watch this space to see if the ‘Robot Armageddon’ eventually goes ahead.

Zero Dark Thirty (15)***** Starring Chris Pratt, Jessica Chastain, Joel Edgerton Directed by Kathryn Bigelow

navoidably the movie of the year, Kathryn Bigelow's controversial quasi-journalistic thriller, dramatized from the original reporting of screenwriter Mark Boal, surveys the decadelong quest to bring down Osama bin Laden. A taut procedural spun from the point of view of Oscar nominated Jessica Chastain's lone wolf CIA analyst, the film seems temperamentally more tenacious than triumphalist, and maybe therefore also as lucid an elaboration of the “war on terror” as we can ever hope to get from Hollywood. But has anyone asked why we should ever hope to get such a thing from Hollywood? Neither the Obama re-election commercial nor the torture apologia some blowhards feared it would be, ‘Zero Dark Thirty’ certainly captures the cultural legacy of 9/11 and reveals the euphemized brutalities of recent American foreign policy. It's also a superb example of contemporary political-thriller vernacular, all the way through to its methodical and

disturbingly amazing night-vision climax. If this endorses anything, it's the opportunism of movies. People often approve of historical thrillers whose real-life outcomes they know by saying they got caught up in the suspense anyway. Knowing how ‘Zero Dark Thirty’ ends means very much wanting to see how it ends. There must be some ancient storytelling stuff at work in how it makes us wait, and yearn, for that recreated raid—the indelible spectacle of a methodical and unfortunately amazing night-vision climax. This is not done in a particularly sensational way. We barely even see bin Laden himself, but cannot fail to miss that we’re storming lethally

through a house full of unarmed women and children. On first impression, the scene seems like it might be one of the most brilliantly staged action set pieces in the history of film. If this movie endorses anything, it’s the opportunism of movies. At a time when even the trailers for laughably less-sophisticated films than this can spur deadly riots in the Arab world, it’s hard not to worry about how the Hollywood behemoth that is ‘Zero Dark Thirty’ abetted by its inevitable Oscarseason self-congratulation, may pour fuel on fires already raging within the hearts of bin Laden’s would-be avengers.

Starring Suraj Sharma, Irfan Khan, Ayush Tandon. Directed by Ang Lee Mountain, Hulk, Sense and Sensibility and The Ice Storm have shown him to be one of the most versatile directors on the planet. This is up there with the best of them. It isn’t perfect. It does not fulfil its promise of making us believe in God; on the contrary, it reminds us more of human resilience, thanks in part to an extraordinary performance by the inexperienced first time, leading actor. The twist ending, which calls into question the veracity of all that has gone before, is of questionable merit. But it certainly shows how story-tellers embellish on the truth in order to bring out its deeper meaning. Though it’s more a feast for the eyes than food for thought, the lyricism and visual magnificence make Life of Pi an unmissable experience. And do see it in a good cinema.

OSCAR 2013 F

or this year's awards, director Steven Spielberg's historical drama "Lincoln" earned a leading 12 nominations for the 85th Annual Academy Awards, followed by Ang Lee's "Life of Pi" with 11, while the musical, "Les Miserables," directed by Tom Hooper, and David O. Russell's "Silver Linings Playbook" tied with 8 nods each. "Lincoln" was nominated for best picture and gave Spielberg his eighth best director nomination. A win would be his third in the director category. It's the eighth film Spielberg has had in the running for best picture (''Schindler's List'' won in 1994). "Lincoln" also garnered a best acting nod for two-time Oscar winner Daniel Day-Lewis as Lincoln and supporting acting nominations for Sally Field, a two-time best actress winner who played Lincoln's wife Mary Todd and Tommy Lee Jones as a radical antislavery legislator. "Lincoln" also received nominations for cinematography, costume design, film editing, original score, production de-

sign, sound mixing and adapted screenplay. "Life of Pi", the dream-like fantasy adventure was nominated for best picture, best director, original song "Pi's Lullaby", adapted screenplay, cinematography, film editing, original score, production design, sound editing and mixing and visual effects. "Les Miserables," a film adaptation of the long-running musical set in 19th century France, got acting nods for lead Hugh Jackman as Jean Valjean and Anne Hathaway in her supporting role as Fantine, as well as nominations for costume design, makeup, original song "Suddenly", production design and sound mixing. The Weinstein Company's "Silver Linings Playbook's" eight nominations included best picture and across-the-board nods for its actors: Bradley Cooper, who played a man recently released from a psychiatric institution, and Jennifer Lawrence, his romantic interest and Robert De Niro and Jacki Weaver in supporting roles. The nominations set records

for the oldest and youngest nominees. French actress Emanuelle Riva, 85, received a nomination for best actress for her role in`Amour,'' nominated for both best picture and best foreign film. And 9-year-old Quvenzhane Wallis became the youngest-ever best actress nominee for her portrayal of Hushpuppy in "Beasts of the Southern Wild." Both Riva and Wallis are firsttime nominees, along with Cooper and Jackman. The youngest acting nominee in all categories is still Justin Henry, who was eight when he was nominated for "Kramer vs. Kramer" (1979) and the oldest remains Gloria Stuart, 87 when she received a supporting nomination for "Titanic." "Silver Linings Playbook" is the first film to take nominations for best picture, directing, writing and all four acting categories since "Reds'' (1981). All will be revealed on February 24 at the Dolby Theatre at the Hollywood & Highland Center. It will be televised live domestically on ABC and in more than 225 foreign countries including Sky Movies HD.

The Phoenix–February 2013 Page 15

BIG SCREEN

The Cosmopolitan Cutting Edge Entertainment Magazine

Lincoln (12A)*****

Starring Daniel Day-Lewis, Tommy Lee Jones, James Spader, Sally Field, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Jackie Earle Haley, Walton Goggins and Jared Harris Directed by Steven Spielberg

A S

Jamie Foxx Christoph Waltz, Leonardo DiCaprio, (15) Starring Kerry Washington and Samuel L. Jackson Written and Directed by Quentin Tarantino ***** ome people have ex- plantation-owner called Calvin western and genteel

pressed surprise that Django Unchained has been Oscar-nominated for Best Picture. But this is Quentin Tarantino’s most entertaining film since Pulp Fiction, and its first hour is brilliantly funny. It’s too bad about the second one.

The early scenes are engaging and inventive. Christoph Waltz (an Oscar-winner for Inglourious Basterds) is slyly subversive as a soft-spoken German dentist turned deadly bounty hunter. He intercepts a chain gang of blacks and offers to buy Django (Jamie Foxx, an Oscar-winner for Ray), to help him find a white threeman gang who may be hiding nearby. Django does just that, and they outwit a vengeful Ku Klux Klan, under the leadership of Don Johnson and Jonah Hill. Their problem is the ill-fitting bags over their heads, which mean they can’t see. This is an inspired comic sequence worthy of Blazing Saddles. It’s also a skilful parody of scenes in the 1915 classic, The Birth of a Nation, where director D.W.Griffith glorified the Klan as American heroes. The grateful German entrepreneur helps Django learn to shoot, and offers him a job as his bountyhunting partner: “It’s like slavery, it’s a cash for flesh business”. Django replies, with brutal honesty, that he just wants “to shoot white folks for money.” There follow more splendid scenes, as the two partners ride as equals into southern towns, causing outrage among the men and fainting fits among the women. Waltz’s way with words and his ability to hide behind the law are richly enjoyable. He and the deadpan Foxx make a hilarious double-act. The film starts to falter when it attempts to take a deeper, more emotional turn. Django reveals he has a wife (Kerry Washington) whose German owners taught her German and called her Brunnhilde. She has been branded on her face for trying to run away with her husband. The bounty-hunters learn she has gone to work for a rich, evil

Candie (Leonardo DiCaprio, pictured), who has a taste for black-on-black “Mandingo” allin wrestling to the death, and uses female slaves for his sexual pleasure, as “comfort girls”. The bounty-hunters hatch a plan to rescue Django’s wife under the guise of purchasing one of Candie’s fighter-slaves at an absurdly inflated price.

Once inside Candie’s heart of darkness, however, they have to outwit not only the sharp-witted Candie but his chief slave-butler, a memorably malevolent Uncle Tom called Stephen (Samuel L. Jackson). Things do not go as planned, and there is an almighty shoot-out. A less self-indulgent director would allow the film to end there, but Tarantino lets it ramble on for quite a bit longer, with a spectacularly ill-advised acting cameo by the writer-director,

who attempts an accent that’s meant to be Australian but sounds more South African. Sequences that drag include the pulling of a slave to bits by dogs, portrayed with a little too much gruesome relish. And several overextended scenes suffer from the writerdirector’s infatuation with his own dialogue, which is a mixture of the delectably archaic and the carelessly anachronistic. Just as irksome is the obtrusive score, which conspicuously fails to make a harmonious mix of Ennio Morricone western music, rap, hip-hop and folk. Tarantino is setting out to mash up four very different genres, two of them familiar: blaxploitation (which he did before in Jackie Brown) and racial revenge action film, previously attempted in Inglourious Basterds. He mixes these elements with a couple of genres he hasn’t attempted before, pre-civil war

costume drama. It’s a weird combination, and the second hour, when they all collide, is a bit like watching an exceptionally lurid episode of Downton Abbey interrupted by blood-crazed ninjas. I’ve always admired Tarantino’s flair, and there’s bravery in the way he refers to a subject that few American directors have dared to tackle: the racism of America’s past, and in particular its record on slavery. It’s a lot more fun than Spielberg’s stodgy Amistad. Sadly, QT’s usual weaknesses are also on display. His love of violence, which in Inglourious Basterds looked like racism against the Germans, is here turned against white people in general. You only have to consider what audiences would make of a film that enthusiastically praised the ethnic cleansing of black people by whites, to realise there’s a kind of inverse racism going on here.

dignified, and engaging story of the great American president and the final four months of his life. This is the time when Lincoln, the sixteenth U.S. President, fights to outlaw ‘slavery and involuntary servitude’ by having the Thirteenth Amendment passed at the House of Representatives. It is also during this denouement that Lincoln is expected to win the Civil War against the South. Due to the complexity of American politics, the amendment must be passed as soon as possible, so that the slaves are not caught in a vicious cycle of enslavement. Lincoln is portrayed as a patient yet shrewd individual, playing politics cunningly in order to win the votes required. This film is yet another magnificent piece of cinema from Spielberg. But it is an epic that is unlike his previous pieces of historical work, where he avoids the grandeur, and allows the excellent script, a patient direction, and the acting to work the wonders. The performances are timeless. Tommy L. Jones features as Republican Congressional leader Thaddeus Stevens, a stubborn man who reins in his call for complete

racial equality so that Lincoln may succeed in his political negotiations. Meanwhile, Daniel Day-Lewis gives a powerful performance as Lincoln himself, embodying the intelligent, tolerant, down to earth, and level headed nature of the great American leader. More so, the actor manages to exude a great level of self-confidence as the President, a self-made man who climbed the social ladder with little formal education. In Lincoln, Spielberg achieves the improbable. A film that even renders the subject of politics rather compelling. The political nego-

tiations of Lincoln and his staff are given in a condensed fashion. With the civil war’s end nearby, there is a sense of great urgency and suspense in this highly political film. I must add my all time favourite composer John Williams has surpassed himself once again. I feel there’s a worthwhile message in Lincoln: politics, with all its ways and wiles, can be used by noble leaders for great ends. Hopefully Lincoln will be a film that some of our own leaders can watch and learn from. Though, I probably shouldn’t hold my breath.

simon@inprintz.co.uk www.inprintz.co.uk

Tarantino still isn’t any good at deepening character. The relationship between Django and his wife is fumbled badly. It’s the buddy-buddy chemistry between the two bountyhunters that drives the picture, and blatantly the only human contact in which the director is really interested. He remains fatally obsessed with pastiche. His film is a loose remake of a little-seen film from 1966, the spaghetti-western Django. But the inferior second half borrows most obviously from Mandingo, a 1975 exploitation film notorious for its bad taste. Tarantino has adopted with baffling fidelity its simplistic view of plantation owners as evil, raping racists - along with its taste for lip-smackingly voyeuristic melodrama. Although he’s knocking fifty, Tarantino is still a brash young man at heart. All his movies are flashily brilliant but emotionally callow, films for fanboys when as an adult it is surely time for him to reach out to a wider, more sophisticated audience. But I have an awful feeling that this is one director who will never mature. For good and ill, we’ll just have to take him as he is. He’s certainly unique.

4 Tame Road, Witton, Aston, Birmingham, B6 7DS

Page 16

The Phoenix–February 2013

GADGETS

The Cosmopolitan Cutting Edge Entertainment Magazine Mega Nanodots Blue - 64 Dots Mega Nanodots are the size of marbles and 27x larger in volume to regular Nanodots. This means that they have a much larger magnetic field allowing you to make the same magnetic structures, just on a bigger scale! The balls of magnetic force can be constructed to make any shape your imagination can conjure. Officially the world’s strongest magnets, the Mega Nanodots will stick to each other like glue, you will feel the pull if you try to keep them apart! Forming magnetic structures will be strangely satisfying and addictive. £36.99

IWOOT have got some amazing products on their website, making you suddenly realise they’ve got a very apt name. They have gifts for every pocket, and as we’re heading towards Valentines Day, here is a selection of 3 gifts for Him and Her. For the full range, check out the IWOOT website at www.iwantoneofthose.com

FOR HER Sweet Words - I Love You Send a message with sweets! With the Sweet Words you can send a unique romantic message to your partner to celebrate any occasion. When the recipient opens up the box they’ll see the ‘I Love You’ message that’s made up of 8 seperate boxes, filled with delicious retro sweets, including: Cola Bottles, Refresher Chews, Kola Cubes and many more. The Sweet Words are a great alternative to a greetings card.

Headonizm Head Massager Next time you want to feel as relaxed as a sleepy sloth on his seventh snooze of the morning, simply get someone to run this Headonizm Head Massager through your hair and over your head and feel those endorphins flow freely through your body. This really is as relaxing as it gets. £6.99 D - Looking like a broke egg whisk, the Headonizm Head Massager might look a bit strange, but put it down over your head and you’ll find out one way or the other whether it’s as strange as it looks. This split the office down the middle, some loving it and some hating the sensation, but if you like it, it works wonders, relaxing and soothing your scalp!

FOR HIM

I.O.U. Voucher Booklet The demands of daily life may mean that you don’t have as much time as you’d like to spend with your partner. The I.O.U Vouchers allow you to save the romantic occasion for another time and enjoy your time together fully at a later date. I.O.U options include: dinner out, a big kiss or raise the tempo with a sexy striptease! Make the most of precious moments together, and if you can’t make time for each other then promise an I.O.U! £4.99 D - Does exactly what it says on the paper. Vouchers for your naughty side!

Armour Cladded LED Watch Disguised as a bracelet, this Armour Cladded LED Watch is a funky and cool way to tell the time. The distinctive style doesn’t feature a watch face, but instead tells the time with LED lights that are concealed within the bracelet. Press the button once and you get the time, twice and you’ll see the date. Pressing it three times will display the seconds in bright, futuristic looking LEDs. £14.99 D - Feeling reassuringly weighty, the LED’s are more than bright enough to be read even in direct sunlight. Very stylish, although the clasp could pose a problem as it is quite stiff/strong

£16.99 D - With such a wide variety of sweets inside, there is something for everyone. Coming packaged in the individual boxes you can see, and surrounded in pink crepe paper, this gift is perfect for your loved one on Valentines. Taking many of us back to our childhood, this collection of retro sweets and the “aww” factor make it a winner in our books!

Design Your Own Fragrance Oriental With this Design Your Own Fragrance Set you can be just like the celebrities and create your own signature scent. The set contains a pocket sized 20ml atomiser which is small enough to fit in a handbag, so you can smell fresh wherever

you go. It also contains 6x6ml of ‘Oriental’ blends: Citrus, Floral, Spicy, Woody, Musky and Amber, with which you can create your ideal fragrance. Oriental scents are exotic and sensual, and the rich fragrance will make you stand out from the crowd. £24.99

ollowing an amazing response to the Kickstarter campaign in 2012, $174,804 has been pledged by eager gamers awaiting the arrival of this beautifully styled space shooter. Strike Suit Zero promises to delight fans, due largely to the fantastic talent on board its development team. Featuring jaw-droppingly

New range of PC Gaming Headsets from Turtle Beach

n 2013 Turtle Beach is releasing a collection of gaming headsets that will provide superior quality, comfort, control and customization to meet the unique needs of PC gamers. From the SEVEN Series, the Z SEVEN will be the first gaming headset available for gamers in need of a tournament grade audio that can also deliver an extraor-

dinary experience with movies and music. The Z300 headset further supports Turtle Beach’s commitment to PC gaming with an advanced wireless solution that includes high-end features such as Dual Band WiFi for an interference-free

connection, a rechargeable lithium polymer battery with a 15 hour lifespan and Bluetooth technol-

ogy. The Z300 is the only Bluetooth enabled PC headset capable of answering calls or streaming music via a mobile device while playing a game. Lastly, Turtle Beach is releasing the new USB powered Z22 headset for PC gamers in search

of a high value audio experience. With full mobile compatibility and analog inputs, the Z22 is the first PC headset featuring Chat Boost, variable Bass and Treble Boost for a powerful audio performance across the sonic spectrum. Both pricing and availability for the Ear Force Z300 and the Z22 headsets will be released in the coming months.

detailed mecha and spaceship designs by renowned mecha designer Junji Okubo (Steel Battalion, Appleseed), and a wonderfully atmospheric score created by Paul Ruskay (Homeworld) and Kokia (Tales of Innocence), critics have already been hugely impressed with the aesthetics and gameplay on offer in Strike Suit Zero. In addition to the Mac and Linux versions, Born Ready has previously confirmed that there will be Oculus Rift support planned for later in the year. James Brooksby, CEO at Born Ready Games said “We are incredibly excited that the launch day for Strike Suit Zero has finally arrived. We’ve received overwhelming support from our community, and would like to extend special thanks to our backers on Kickstarter. . We hope everyone is as ecstatic to see the finished result as we are!” Strike Suit Zero is now available on Steam, Green Man Gaming and GamersGate - for £14.99. We’ll have a hands on review of this Kickstarter-funded game in the March edition of The Phoenix.

The Phoenix–February 2013 Page 17

VALENTINES SPECIAL

r e n r o C y r t e o with Rajan P S

omewhere along our lives for some crazy reason we stop truly living and let our personal freedom be sacrificed by things and objects that really have no meaning. The longer we try to keep up with this deep unnecessary adjustment the more life starts to pass us by. The very fabric of our identity starts to dissipate, our sense of self worth, our enjoyment and creativity suffer. We begin to delve into unproductive behaviour and after a while we find that we get stuck in the social momentum of our minds and let 10 years pass as if it were just 1 year. I know we never truly know when the end comes, but one thing I am sure about is that it’s never too late to start living again and rediscovering the essence that is us. The poems are based on my experience on working and liv-

ing around the world. Dealing with presidents, prime ministers, CEOs, athletes and street children in a range of areas from working as a therapist, adviser and coach. I have witnessed some of the worst in human behaviour through to random acts of pure kindness and love in the most unexpected areas. The poems are my gateway to convey the lessons that I have experienced and been taught from people around the world and the aim is to inspire, encourage and provide practical advice to assist individuals in developing their potential and to truly live. I am not a utopian believer but rather a realist in the ever expanding potential of our human existence. The world is changing and as a flower bends to the sun for light, our minds should also bend towards inner realisation to truly understand the real beauty of the world around us.

L-O-V-E

We taint your sacred name with consumerism.

But little do we know your true existence.

Your letters spelt over products of secondary nature.

You lay in plain sight in the gaze of our reflection.

Denim jeans, joint hips, locked lips, double heart beating montages of the metaphors of our emotionally bankrupt society.

In the loving touch that frees the prison of a mind in doubt.

Your meaning now placed undeservingly on anything with a label. As if memorabilia can replace the ancient treasures of you. A diamond, a jewel or a watch cannot hold your power.

In the radiance of true emotion and the glistening shared stares of anticipation. In the very heart beat of the world around us you are beyond price, for your qualities are within reach with every single breath.

Cries of the Sun

We wake up to the glory of the deep unconditional affection of the sun. It creates the warmth, the love and the catalyst for our day ahead. But we use its energy to forge weapons, machinery and slow painful inventions that in turn take its nutrition away from us. Our minds grow weary as the day progresses. We use its light not to escape from the shadows of doubt, but to cast fear into this sacred world around us. Our bodies are no longer ours, but a mishap of social conditioning and confusion that comes from the greed of thinking we need more.

Our legs grow tired with the weight of our minds and our fists fight against us. We become ghosts to the true ambitions of our leaders and the pyrite (fools gold) of religious alchemy stenches the air. Our words are numb with any cause, the life drained from our thoughts, replaced with a cobweb of engineered views. We grow old, as if doing so would ease the burden of guilt and replace a lack of experience with second hand wisdom. As we lay fighting the evils of our day we rest unsatisfied by our lack of courage.

Oh sun, in your everlasting form you continue to shine and now as our mother earth twirls in its optimistic form, you awaken another from its deep slumber, hoping and praying that the atrocities of the day will end. Oh sun, my mind does ask, you stand as a sacred sentinel radiating love, light and offering warmth to all. Age after age you see the destiny of man rise and fall. You are fearless, not because you are “God” like, but because your nightmares have already been played out in front of your gaze. But why does your spirit not harden? Why do you give us another day to start our real voyage of life?

How many defecate the sanctuary that is humanity under your gift, I will never know. But to hide your pain so well is what I despise. Loving sun provider of much, let your tears fall upon this earth and in doing so let the cosmic play begin. Let the shackles of disillusionment disappear and let the power that is within us cleanse our minds and bodies. Let the cool springs of true wisdom repair our minds and let our hardened mentality disappear and become the sweet nectar in which we survive. © R.S. Nazran, 2013 Under the Berne Convention No Reproduction without Permission

(tm) You sustain the message of beauty within and allow yourself to weave into the fabric of our very souls. If only I knew, that you are me, my personal messenger. My guide, my light, my gift to this world, my love. © R.S. Nazran, 2013 Under the Berne Convention No Reproduction without Permission

Page 18

The Phoenix–February 2013

VALENTINES SPECIAL

A History Of Valentine's Day By Joe Holt

nobody really knows for certain how Valentine's joe.holt@thephoenixnewspaper.com Day emerged, and the We all know that the myths and explanations fourteenth day of Feb- surrounding it are both ruary is the most ro- inaccurate and sordid. mantic day of the year, The roots of this rose but why? giving day extend deep down through the soil Not too sure either? of history, right into the Well, it turns out that height of Roman Civilization. The most popular story concerns Valentine of Rome, a Christian who was imprisoned for marrying soldiers, which was against the wishes of the Roman emperor Claudius Features Journalist

Gothicus. Just as the truth of this legend is unlikely, other

historians have related Valentine's day to bizarre

events that took place in the early Roman Festival of Lupercalia. Taking place in February, young men would run around wearing nothing but animal skin thongs and whip the behinds all those they saw to increase their fertility. More akin to what we are used to today, the middle ages witnessed the transfer of notes from loved one to loved one.The first recorded Valentine's day note was written in 1415 by the Duke of Orleans,

while imprisoned in the Tower of London. Hand-made cards started to be given as gifts in 18th century England, until the manufacturing process was refined. Now it is synonymous with love,

Love your partner in a box this Valentines By Joe Holt

Features Journalist

joe.holt@thephoenixnewspaper.com

Valentines best Day to pop the question?

t can be hard to decide who you love more, your team or your club. For the truly indecisive merging the two

together is the only solution. If you are in the mood for something at little different for Valentine's Day without compromising on quality or grandeur, then football hospitality is a popular alternative to more ordinary options. One of the most frequent com-

Aston Villa

Instead of holding their package on the day itself, the Molineux's 'Dinner and Disco' takes place on Friday evening, featuring the customary 3 course dinner in a candlelit atmosphere just metres away from the pitch below. Considering it even includes a gift for your partner, in addition to the provision of a 'heart-felt, loving poem' to woo your guest, this package is great value.

That’s why The National Wedding show asked; ‘What do you think is the most romantic time of year to propose?’

8.4% of people propose to their other half on significant birthdays. Whichever day of the year your engagement takes place, it remains an important occasion for you as a couple for years to come. The National Wedding Show takes place at London Olympia (22-24 February) and the NEC Birmingham (1-3 March).

Birmingham City Birmingham City are also holding their own Valentine's day package at St Andrew's and it contains a little more excitement and entertainment. The event features a special performance by a Michael Bublé tribute act to serenade you while you eat. Taking place in the Jasper Carrott Suite, named after the famous brummie comedian, the package includes an intimate table for two and the added extra of champagne on arrival, so not to be outdone by their local competitors.

Features Journalist

joe.holt@thephoenixnewspaper.com

J Wolverhampton Wanderers

Joe Holt

Seasonal hospitality offered by Football stadiums is becoming ever more popular. When compared to standard restaurant meals the pricing is very competitve, and alongside all the added extras of privacy or entertainment it really is worth a consideration.

For this years Valentine's day Villa park will be holding 'Love in a Box'. It is a real treat for both you and your partner, including a restaurant quality four course meal with champagne on arrival. Its major selling point is where it takes place though: In a private box above the pitch. The whole evening is supported by hostess service to make the evening truly special.

he day that your other half decides to pop the question is undoubtedly one of the most memorable of your life.

Christmas Day came in first place with 32% of the votes followed by Christmas Eve with 26.4%. Surprisingly enough Valentine’s Day comes in with only 19.8%.

plaints I hear from couples who usually treat themselves to a meal at Valentines Day is the lack of privacy. Cramped tables can take the spark out of what should be a romantic evening, so its time for you consider a meal out somewhere more private.

romance and has become the second most popular time to send cards after Christmas.

oe Holt is known at the Phoenix for his love of food, but he’s also working his way to the top of the journalism food chain. Growing up in Birmingham, Joe had a childhood not much different to most of us, starting school in Newtown with dreams of becoming a musician. After school and studying Ancient History at the University of Liverpool, Joe’s ambitions changed to something more secure and achievable; running his own business. With incredibly varied interests and hobbies, Joe could have chosen anything to try and start a career in, but his volunteer work and interest in giving back to the community lead him to the Phoenix newspaper. Since Joe has expressed his interest in writing food reviews, I asked him where his love for food came from. Joe spoke in our interview about how he was known as ‘the dustbin’ at university, as he was always eating whatever he could to fulfill his hunger. And this student style of eating clearly still hasn’t left Joe, as when asked about his favourite fish his instant response was “mackerel, because it’s cheap and it’s tasty”. Joe also likes to travel, listen to music and play any sport he can, so the Phoenix journalist position could be his perfect career to satisfy his thirst for variance.

The Phoenix–February 2013 Page 19

ENTERTAINMENT - VALENTINES SPECIAL

by Liam O’Leary

Entertainment Journalist

liam.oleary@streetcredmagazine.com

Stage Name: Matisyahu Birth Name: Matthew Paul Miller Nationality: American Born: June 30 1979 (33 years old)

atthew Paul Miller, known by his Hebrew stage name Matisyahu which means ‘the gift of god’ is a unique artist that blends Reggae, Reggae Fusion, Alternative rock, and alternative hip hop

Matisyahu

within all of his music. Matisyahu was born in West Chester, Pennsylvania and brought up as a Reconstructionist Jew attending a Hebrew school at Bem Am Shalom, a synagogue in White Plains. Formally known for blending traditional Jewish themes with reggae, rock and hip hop beat boxing sounds, in April of 2005 a fresh voice announced his arrival on the international stage with a stunningly inventive document titled

Live at Stubb’s. Six years later, Matisyahu returns to the renowned Austin venue that helped to launch his career with Live at Stubb’s Vol. II, a new CD-DVD package that demonstrates the continued originality and increasing depth of this long time New Yorker’s craft. You always get different reactions when people hear his music and some tend to be shocked when they realise he’s a Jewish man creating and performing reg-

gae music. A Jewish reggae artist sounds absurd and never to be heard of within the music industry. Sparks Seeker is his latest album which charted at number 1 in the United States reggae charts. It’s an incredible album, and anyone that is a fan of his work would already understand the passion he holds within his music. The essential tracks to look out for on the album are “Crossroads” & “I Believe in Love”

Matisyahu has been nominated for 3 awards over his career, two being a music video award from the MTV awards and he also got nominated for a Grammy. It’s a huge achievement considering he’s someone who no one would have considered to be a reggae artist yet he’s getting the nominations and recognition for his music.

Frost and Snow is that there is a degree of subtlety to their charity work. If you visited their stall with no prior knowledge of the business, you would be hard pushed to recognise that this it is a charitable scheme and not a luxury cupcake brand. It is this humble approach to business that makes Frost and Snow even more admirable.

and corporate markets which their marketing manager, Simi Chopra, hopes to expand into further. Up to now Frost and Snow have sold over 70,000 cupcakes, all of which are handmade and decorated by the previously homeless staff. Throughout its history Frost and Snow has managed to help over 70 homeless people get the training and support they need to help them gain their independence. Paul Kardaszewski, who manages the Bullring stall, is a 32 year old Polish born immigrant, and is a

perfect example of the changing nature of homelessness in modern times. When Paul lost his job as a Photographer he suddenly found himself without a home, however Frost and Snow were there with aid to help him back on his feet. So if your looking for a gift for your partner this February, you can feel doubly charitable with a special box of Valentine's day cupcakes from Frost and snow. It gives healthly eating a completely new meaning.

Give a gift to your loved one and the community

ganisation Midland Heart in 2009 the idea developed into Frost and Snow. The core of their aspirations was to set up a not-for profit business that provided a great tasting cupcake, but which also helped homeless people get back into work and regain both their self esteem and independence.

Extra Special

By Joe Holt

Features Journalist

joe.holt@thephoenixnewspaper.com

alentines day often gets maligned as a purely commercialised, corporate cash generator, however we hope to show you that you need not to envisage your Valentine's day as a merely a show of money over affection; you can in fact buy gifts that are delicious but also good for the community. Frost and Snow bakery is one establishment that is providing just that service. It is a social enterprise scheme that trains people who have been affected by homelessness to make cupcakes. Best of all, all of the profit made from

the cupcakes is used to help prevent homelessness. In time for the holiday, they will be selling gift boxes of cupcakes with seasonal decorations. Cupcake baking has seen a real revival over the last decade, and it is easily visible on TV where there are now many programmes about bakery and the joy and entertainment it brings. Cupcake Wars, Ace of Cakes and The Great British Bake Off all tap into the simplicity of cupcakes but also the craft and skill needed. This skill is something that Frost and Snow bakery have been perfecting for 3 years. The idea stemmed from Sarah Frost, who started out as a keen baking enthusiast, and when she met the Birmingham based housing or-

To celebrate Valentine's day, Frost and Snow have created some extra special vanilla and chocolate cupcakes hand decorated with pink hearts and sprinkles. Presented in a gift wrapped box these romantic cupcakes include a gift card to personalise for your loved one. Their main base of operation is a £10million revamped facility at Old Snow Hill in Birmingham, which houses their bakery and their coffee shop. It represents a sizeable investment into the community and a serious commitment to helping homeless people. They also have recently opened a stall located on the bridge between the Bullring and the Pallasades which stock a whole range of sweet treats that would be a great gift for your loved one. One of the respectable aspects to

Volunteers

Their products are proving incredibly popular with the public too, particularly in the wedding

Page 20

The Phoenix–February 2013

VALENTINES SPECIAL

ea d I l ea M e rs ou -c 3 s u io sc u L t bu Simple Starter

Main

Simply Egg and Asparagus

Salmon and Couscous Wraps

Start by steaming 200g-250g of asparagus for five minutes, or boiling it in lightly salted water. While that is cooking, half fill a frying pan or similar with water and start to let the water boil. Crack 2 eggs into a small bowl (one at a time) and slowly tip them into the centre of the water, making sure to stir the water slightly beforehand to allow the eggs to bind together. Leave the eggs to cook on a simmering heat for 3-4 minutes and remove them with a slotted spoon.

Repeat this step with 2 more eggs, and divide the asparagus onto 2 plates, ready for the eggs. Sit the eggs on top of the asparagus, and grate over a light coating of parmesan cheese just before serving, season with salt and pepper, then Enjoy!

Make up a 100g pack of couscous as per the instructions of the pack, preferably a vegetable or herb based flavour. Once made, place the couscous into 2

Just Divine

Personalised Poem Service

separate sheets of either baking paper or tinfoil. Then, place a skinless salmon fillet on top of each of these beds of couscous, adding spices such as paprika, chilli coriander and cumin. Wrap up the parcels so only a little gap is left for steam. These should be cooked on a 180c-200c oven for 15-20 minutes. Once the fish is cooked, these can either be plated up, of served in the parcel for a rustic feel.

Dessert

Spiced Strawberries with Honey and Ice Cream First, quarter 150g of strawberries then slice another 150g. This will make the strawberries blend in to each other without forming a sauce. Then heat a non-stick pan over a medium heat and add the s t r a w b e rries. Stir for 30 seconds, then add a pinch of mixed spice and a pinch of ground cinnamon. Keep mixing this

Ideas to sweeten your valentines proposals

If your partner has a sweet tooth, try leading them from one room to another using their favourite sweets or chocolates. This is a classic trick and can be used as the lead up to many of the different ideas in this list. Another thing to remember is not to use unwrapped sweets or chocolate in a warm room, as melted chocolate isn’t the most romantic lead up to a proposal.

We specialise in writing A4 poems for friends and loved ones for any special occasion, including Birthdays, Anniversaries and Valentines, to name but a few.

Valentines Special 10% off any completed personalised poem during February 2013.

Call Dave Wilkes

07896787235 www.4realpromotions.co.uk www.facebook.com/justdivinepoems

around for another 30 seconds, then add honey, and mix again until the honey has formed a gloss on the strawberries. Serve this in a small bowl, with topquality vanilla i c e cream and, for an added boost of flavour, another drizzle of honey to finish.

Another classic trick is to give your partner a gift, once a day, for a full week leading up to Valentine’s Day. These can be small gifts like sweets or chocolates, or little notes declaring your love that you hide in their lunch or post through the door. Once the big day comes, present them with a ring in a box or envelope similar to what they have been receiving, but make sure you are there to pop the question and see the look of joy on their face.

or poem as they receive the mail.

For those that prefer funny to romantic, this is the idea for you. Use the classic ‘box in a box’ idea, and take it to a new level. Take your ring, attach it to the cuddly toy with elastic bands. Then put that toy in a box, cover it up with sweets, and then box that up again. This means that when your partner opens the largest box, they will think you’ve just got them more sweets than they could eat in a year. But then you tell them to dig a little deeper and they find the second box with the toy inside. At first they will think it’s just a novel idea to give them a present, but then t h e y will spot the ring box, and you climbing down on one knee.

Take your partner to the spot where you first met, or a favourite spot of yours to visit. If it’s outside, take a basket and some blankets and plan for a picnic. Always plan for something to do before popping the question, even if it involves getting friends and family involved. This makes them less suspicious as to why you are going out to this place, and makes the proposal more of a surprise.

Go to their favourite restaurant in advance and get the co-operation of the manager to design a special menu. Instead of food, this menu should feature the top 10 reasons of why you love them or maybe some of the nicknames you give to your partner like “cutie pie”.

Sticking to the classics, leaving a note or message hidden for your partner to find is a sure fire way to show your love. Set a room up like a romantic restaurant, cook a meal for them, and then hide the message under the tablecloth or in the dessert in chocolate sauce. This idea never fails to impress, as it shows your partner that you are willing to put in the effort to declare your love. Personalised items never fail to pull on the heart strings, so write your partner a poem or song, and say/ sing it to them before getting down on one knee. Make sure it covers points like where you first met, your first kiss, and any other special, personal information you can think of. This is a great accompaniment to the second tip, as you can send them the note, and sing them the song

The Phoenix–February 2013 Page 21

ENTERTAINMENT Staff Introductions

Tom Cotter

Official Photographer

tom.cotter@streetcredmagazine.com

om is a university graduate in Visual Communications and has a major passion for photography. He has always loved the more creative side of photography, which he developed at an early age when he first discovered

ne of the biggest bands of the 2-Tone movement, The Beat present a wall of sound that transcends time and ska fusion rhythms to ignite a crowd. They play with the sole aim of connecting with and entertaining their appreciative audience with their relentless energy and world class musicianship. Known the world over for a string of hit singles, including "Mirror in the Bathroom", "Too Nice To Talk To", "Can't Get Used To Losing You", "Hands off She's Mine" and "All Out To Get You" their songs of peace, love and uni-

ty fuse ska, pop, reggae and punk rock in a dynamic live show.. Formed in Birmingham in 1978, as part of the West Midlands ska revival scene which included The Specials and The Selecter, their first single was an arresting version of Smokey Robinson’s “Tears Of A Clown,” backed with their own composition “Ranking Full Stop”. The single stormed into the Top 10 in December 1979, and saw the band appear twice on Top Of The Pops. Backed by Arista, the band formed their own label Go-Feet Records. The first release in February 1980 was another Top 10 hit, “Hands Off... She’s Mine,” the

first of twelve chart singles for the band on Go-Feet. They released three albums “I Just Can’t Stop It” (1980), “Wha’ppen” (1981) and “Special Beat Service” (1982), which contained many tracks that demonstrated their more politicised and socially-conscious leanings. All three albums were reissued in the Summer of 2012 by Edsel Records with bonus additions. The 2012 line-up features Ranking Roger and Ranking Junior on vocals, Everett on drums plus Andy Pearson, Michael Billingham, Matt Godwin and Steve Harper on sax, keys and guitars.

ince studying media at college Liam O’Leary has always known that he wanted to work within the media be it in journalism, film making, production or music. This is something which he has wanted for a long time, since school in fact, and knowing for so long how he wants his career to turn out has helped him to progress towards this goal sooner than many his age. Although nothing major has occurred within the past year to influence Liam’s direction he has begun to push forward and work in the music industry. He says though how “within the music industry it’s a waiting progress” and nothing can be rushed to achieve the final goal, “You have to wait for your time”. Liam just hopes to be successful

Advertorial Feature

Ways To Live A Successful Christian Life Ten dynamic ways to live a Successful Christian Life in The 21st century

JASMINE P. CHAMBERS

ne of the least expected names on the bookshelf, Jasmine P. Chambers is the latest bestselling author which is reward for four years of labour of love. ‘Ways To Live A Successful Christian Life’ is written for new believers and those who are thinking of following Christ. Ideal for people of other faiths, ministers, lay preachers and all who believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, the book aims to enlighten, empower, and strengthen believers and non believers on how to walk with Christ. Packed with dynamic teachings practical information and advice,

for Birmingham-based Jasmine she sees this as the result, surprising in many ways, as “a calling from God” as she puts it: “I love reading books,” says St. Catherine, Jamaica native, Chambers. “I didn’t know I could write one, though. However, I remember a particular night, when the Lord told me to do it.” With support from people like Pastor Calvin Young, and Pastor Sandra Thomas, at the city’s Mount Zion Community Church, the devout Christian has created a read that easily teaches you how to communicate with, give to, serve and grow with God: “This book is available because

of the goodness of the Lord. His favour, direction and blessing,” says the 57-year-old. She hopes it will inspire many and help to build confidence and empower others who are doubtful, as she once was. Jasmine P. Chambers is already on her second book, based on women’s issues, which is out next year. Published by authorHOUSE, ‘Ways To Live A Successful Christian Life’ is £11.95 at WH Smith as well as on Amazon and other online outlets. To contact Jasmine, call 07503608568.

l Jasmine P. Chambers, Author of “Ways To Live A Successful Christian Life

a passion for the art. He realises that it is a difficult industry to be a part of, yet hopes that within ten years he’ll become an established photographer, whilst becoming popular within the industry. Unfortunately, it tends to be more difficult than others seem to realise. The majority of people seem to think that just by having a camera, it instantly makes an individual a photographer. This doesn’t take into account the skill required You need to be unique if you want to be successful within the media indus-

try especially in photography. Not many photographers can captivate their inspiration within a picture quite as well as Tom seems to do. Being a successful photographer means that one needs to have a flair of seeing things differently from others. Tom takes pride in his ability to make people feel comfortable, thereby capturing a better picture. Tom is distinct within his own talents and has had his work showcased at a live event which was embraced by the public and Kerrang radio staff. Tom advises photographers like himself to capture the moment like no one else can.

Liam O’Leary

Entertainment Journalist

liam.oleary@streetcredmagazine.com

with his career and what he plans on doing, “Whether that is being a songwriter with a successful hit or doing something amazing” he goes on to add. His dream for ten years’ time is to own his own record label producing and recording. When asked which object he would bring to work if he could, Liam answered simply after some thought with “My Piano”. His song writing tool and instrument of expression is something others may not understand. This is how he interprets his music and gets down the experiences that he wants others to appreciate. My final question is which song would he say describes

him best. His response is “Twista Featuring Faith Evans – Hope”. I’m sure Liam has his own reasoning behind this choice but perhaps it is that he has the hope and belief that he will achieve his dreams and career goals and end up where he wants to be in his life.

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The Phoenix–February 2013

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NEWS

HOME NEWS- IN PARTNERSHIP WITH Article by KatybyOakes, Articleswritten and Layout Katy Oakes, Graphics Student--Hereward HerewardCollege College Graphics Student

Stone The Crows

his shop is full of quirky gifts and treasures, the perfect place to ﬁnd a gift for someone hard to buy for this Valentines Day. The ground ﬂoor of stone the crows is an eclectic maze of locally sourced and handmade products, from home wares to furniture and decorations. Some of my favourite items are found downstairs, I quite like the wooden wine racks with bent metal details and the grand leather chairs you could just snuggle up into. What I really love however is the colourful serve ware and some of the larger items like the clocks, mirrors and the ships in the window display.

The Phoenix– February 2013

The Phoenix–February 2013

Hereward College students team up with The Phoenix Newspaper

tudents from Hereward College looking to move into a career in the Media and Journalism industry are to undertake a work placement at The Phoenix newspaper in Birmingham.

It is hoped that their time at the newspaper will encourage the students to become more confident in their skills and enhance their knowledge.

Some of the things the students will be doing include design work for the paper, writing articles for already established features and starting their very own features.

Working in partnership with the newspaper, Phoenix Managing Director Marcia hopes to help the students develop their knowledge and understanding of the world of media.

A student involved in the partnership, Katy Oakes, said, “I am really looking forward to working here and learning new skills. I have already enjoyed the amount of freedom and creativity I have been allowed to have, it’s allowed me to progress quickly!”

Students will be given the chance to work with staff at the magazine to develop their own features which will be featured either in The Phoenix or in our sister publication, Street Cred.

With a diverse range of students, it is hoped that the students will bring a wealth of knowledge and skills to the paper and help further promote it within the local community we serve.

The Phoenix Managing Director commented “I am excited to be working with the students of Hereward College to not only help them develop themselves but also to develop this paper. The skills that these students have already shown to us make me confident that big things will be happening in the near future. Watch this space!”

“

who will oversee their work and give them help on how to improve. Students will be given the opportunity to work either from college or they can work in the office and get a feeling for journalistic life. Phoenix Managing Director added “We are looking forward to letting the students into our office and giving them a real taste of what it is like in the world of media work. They will be given the chance to work with our own designers and writers to further their own knowledge.

To support the students, they will be guided and helped by senior staff at the newspaper

I am really looking forward to working here and learning new skills.

”

About us

Hereward College is a general FE College in Coventry providing both day and residential places. We welcome all students including those with diverse and complex support requirements. In addition to residential students, day disabled an non disabled students also attend the college.

Stone the crows is set back on a road away from the main parade and so sometimes it can get overlooked, but if you’re looking for inspiration and want to find something a little bit different this valentines day, stone the crows is definitely worth a look.

College Address:

Hereward College Bramston Crescent Tile Hill Coventry CV4 9SW Tel: 02476 461231 Fax: 02476 694305 www.hereward.ac.uk

And In case you are still struggling, you shouldn’t shy away from asking for some help, Stone the Crows staff do their best to help you find what you’re looking for or suggest something they think will fit the job.

If you go upstairs you will see a different side of Stone the Crows as the shop also sticks a wide variety of fancy dress costumes and accessories as well as other unusual extras.

Carolyn Rose School of Sewing

f you’re thinking of something a little different for Valentines day, why not treat that special someone to some sewing lessons or workshops.

If you book a Mums With Bumps And Babies session you’ll be pleased to know there’s a pop up playpen as well as a baby changing and feeding area away from the main workspace.

The Carolyn Rose school Of Sewing is perfect for Beginners, new mums and anyone wanting to get more equipped with th ir sewing skills.

Kate Marshall also runs workshops in the studio and makes cushions, roman blinds and other soft furnishings, examples can be found online at http://softfurnishingsbykm.co.uk/

The front of the shop is an area that displays and sells products from Zuri Interiors, who make beautiful shabby chic home decor. There is also a range of fabrics and sewing equipment available for purchase. Workshops run by The School Of Sewing include an introduction to dress making, Mums With Bumps And Babies; making baby changing mats, breast feeding covers, bibs etc. and cushion making.

To find out more or to enrol on a course, you can email carolynroseschoolofsewingyahoo. co.uk Or search Carolyn Rose School Of Sewing Alternatively call into the shop 21 Regent Street, Leamington Spa

The School of sewing is open 10am-5pm Mon - Sat

The Phoenix–February Phoenix–February2013 2013 Page The Page 323

HOME NEWS

Bread & Co.

his Café is something quite different, Bread & Co. have two shops in Leamington Spa which have a homely feel with an eclectic decór with chairs and tables made of different types of wood.

Bread & Co. has a community feel and the little extras like the book exchange, tea timers and choice of music make it a place perfect for a relaxing but different experience. The menu features a selection of meals served on or with Artisan breads, these include ; sandwiches, toast and soup with bread. Cakes, packaged bread, teas, ﬂour and jam are also available to purchase. When I visited Bread and Co. I tasted the mushroom soup served with artisan breads ; one of which had spinach in the dough, the meal was filling and very tasty. Bread and Co. would be the perfect location for a valentines date, with it’s posh menu and breads. Alternatively why not make up a hamper with products sold in the shop or if you’re feeling extra adventurous give bread making a go for yourself.

Berylune

erylune is another small boutique located in Lemington Spa. The shop covers a small space but stocks an array of crafting and handmade products.

The boutique supports UK and local designers and manufacturers such as Zatchels; a satchel company based in Leicester, Nikki McWilliams who makes screen printed cushions and Jane Foster who makes retro kits, to name but a few. Berylune has an assortment of carefully selected vintage items and a range made by the founders of the business themselves including cosmetics, bags, purses

and crafting kits. Studio space is another service offered at Berylune, with private hire and workshops available. Workshops include Introductions to crochet, knitting and screen printing and sewing sessions to create cushions, clothes and decorations. Price can be found online at www. berylune. com.

If you want to hire the studio space for yourself it boasts a large table, wifi, sewing machines, an over-locker, Iron, a kitchen area with teas and coffees and also an assortment of baked goods. The daily rate is

charged at £12.50 pp incl. VAT and studio hours are from 10am 6pm Monday to Friday subject to availability. The studio can hold 10 - 12 people for parties or hen do’s and buffets or refreshments can be supplied.

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The Phoenix–February 2013

ENTERTAINMENT Thea Gilmore With Strings And Special Guests

Cosmo calls everyone to “Think Bigger”

Ardal O’Hanlon Saturday 23 November 2013 Symphony Hall Birmingham

he National Homebuilding and Renovating Show, Britain’s biggest self-build and renovation event is returning for its 22nd year to educate and inspire visitors searching for new and imaginative ways to create their dream home. Whether you’re about to embark on building your own house, re-

model your existing property, or implement eco savvy technology, the show offers a wealth of design and expertise, no matter the size, scale or stage of your project. You will be able to see and touch the latest products, learn first-hand about the hottest innovations and trends as well as soak up advice from specialist key influencers including Michael Holmes, editor-in-chief of Homebuilding and

Competition! The National Homebuilding & Renovating Show, which is on from the 21st to the 24th of March 2013. We’ve got 4 pairs of tickets to give away to our lucky readers! All you’ve got to do to have a chance of winning is answer this simple question: There is a new event at the 2013 show, fill in the blank! The Big ______ Theatre. a) Ideas b) Home c) Bang To be in with a chance of winning, email your answer along with your full name, address and telephone number to competitions@thephoenixnewspaper.com. Competition closes at 23.59 on 27th February 2013.

The first 4 names drawn will win a pair of tickets to the show. There is no cash alternative. Winners will be contacted in week commencing 4th March 2013.

BIRMINGHAM O2 ACADEMY

February 01 Two Door Cinema Club 01 High on Fire 02 Two Door Cinema Club 02 The Next Big Thing Competition 04 We Are The Ocean 06 All Time Low 08 Modestep 09 Brad 09 Rita Ora 09 Emma Scott Presents... 10 Asking Alexandria 12 CASH 13 School of Rock & Pop 13 Darwin Deez 14 Your Demise 14 Kerrang! Tour 2013 15 Parlour Flames 15 Delphic 16 NME Awards Tour 2013 17 LostAlone 19 Deftones 19 Don Broco 21 Rock Sound Impericon Exposure Tour 2013 21 FIDLAR 22 #BLNT UK Tour 23 Ovation Music Management Presents: Diamond Lil 23 The Courteeners 24 Exit Calm. 26 Exit Ten 27 Double D Tour 2013

BIRMINGHAM HMV INSTITUTE February 02 The 1975 02 Uproar – Bring The Noise 09 Ryan Leslie with full live band 09 Frightened Rabbit 12 Everything Everything

13 Awolnation 14 Villagers 15 Swim Deep 16 Matt Sheehan 16 Paul Van Dyk 19 Jake Bugg 21 Stakeout 22 Pure Love 23 The Lumineers

Renovating magazine and one of the country’s leading property experts. The Eco Home Show, adding sustainable features to the home, will be just one of the major features on show. Gary Wilburn, director of award winning Architects HPW, will conduct daily seminars in the new Eco Theatre alongside Eco Home specialist, Tim Pullen, covering everything from Green Deal advice to sustainable building materials, top tips on energy saving and how to create a low energy high performance and sustainable home. The Advice Centre will be an extremely popular feature where you can speak with industry specialists to arm yourself with invaluable information and advice. The Masterclass, free 20 minute, Programme, with the added Big Ideas Theatre, will see demonstrations highlighting the most ground-breaking products new to the market. Jason Orme (editor of Homebuilding & Renovating magazine), Roger Hunt (award - winning writer and eco expert), David Snell (self-build and plot finding expert) and Chris Reeves (chartered builder and lawyer) are some of the other experts on hand. There is no need to book a spot, simply turn up early enough to grab a seat. The show will be able to meet your requirements for eco knowledge, products and services.

BIRMINGHAM ASYLUM

February 01 Dead Harts 03 Legend in Japan 08 Hanging Doll 14 Feed The Rhino 19 Funeral for a friend 21 Haar 22 Nebukadnezza

Bill Bailey: Qualmpeddlar Saturday 22 September 2013 Symphony Hall Birmingham The versatile musician and comic genius shares his doubts about the modern world - which have now grown into Qualms – in a show featuring all the classical Bill Bailey elements

15 Chris meets Acker 16 Tribute to Mick Hipkiss 17 Rising Stars 17 Michaela Strachan’s Really Wild Adventures 21 Brad Mehldau & Kevin Hays 23 Rumours of Fleetwood Mac 24 VIVE LA FRANCE! 25 Lunchtime Organ Concert Thomas Trotter 25 Kenton Cool: Everest

SYMPHONY HALL

NEC

February 08 Handel’s Radamisto 09 Elkie Brooks 10 PIAF - THE CONCERT 11 Lunchtime Organ Concert Thomas Trotter 13 Young Romantics 14 Hagley Catholic High Pyramid of Schools

l Rita Ora is playing at the O2 Academy on 9th February 23 Andy Burrows 23 Jaguar Skills 24 The Prospects – Boxing Event 26 Of Monsters and Men 26 Walk The Moon 26 stooshe

Sunday 5 May Town Hall Birmingham The British folk-rock singersongwriter performs tracks from her brand new album, as well as classic material with her band, orchestra and a few surprise special guests

and Loewe 02 Anton and Erin Go To Hollywood 03 Singalong with the CBSO: Handel’s Messiah 06 CBSO A Boy Was Born: Osborne plays Britten’s Piano Concerto 07 Transatlantic Sessions 08 Jazzlines Free Gigs: Toby Boalch Sextet 09 Musical Picnic: Dominic Harlan 09 Boogie Nights In Concert 10 CBSO Family Concert: Peter and the Wolf 12 Birmingham City University Awards Ceremony 14 CBSO The Year 1913: Ballets Russes 15 Jazzlines Free Gigs: Andy Derrick Quartet 15 Classic Romance 16 Mid-day Mantra: Salim Sabri 17 Fauré’s Requiem and Poulenc’s Organ Concerto 20 CBSO The Year 1913: Falstaff 21 Beyond Classical: Nymphs and Tangos 21 Richard Thompson 22 Jazzlines Free Gigs: John Law Trio 22 CBSO A Night at the Oscars 23 Sax In The City With The Notebenders 24 CBSO Youth Orchestra: Mahler’s Fifth 27 CBSO Mozart and Mahler 28 Folk For Free: Katherine Priddy

TOWN HALL

February 01 Jazzlines Free Gigs: Asaf Sirkis Trio 01 CBSO A Celebration of Lerner

The popular award-winning Irish comedian, star of cult classic Father Ted, author and actor heads to Symphony Hall for one night of comedy gold based around the subject matter of life itself

February 03-07 Spring Fair International (Trade) 10 Toy Collectors’ Fair (Public)

17-19 Craft Hobby & Stitch International (Trade) 17-19 BETA International 2012 (Trade) 17-19 Moda Woman, Moda Menswear, Moda Footwear Moda Accessories and Moda Lingerie & Swimwear (Trade) 19-24 The Spring Caravan & Camping Show 22-23 The National Franchise Exhibition - Spring (Public) 24-26 Printwear & PromotionLive 2013 (Trade) 27-28 easyFairs Packaging & Print Portfolio 2013 (Trade) 27-28 The UK Concrete Show

NIA

February 04-05, 08, 11, 18 Athletics Training 2013 16 British Athletics Grand Prix 26 The Jacksons 27-28 Justin Bieber

CIVIC HALL, WOLVERHAMPTON

February 01 Jimmy Carr - Gagging Order (Civic) 02 Paloma Faith (Civic) 02 VIP Record Fair (Wulfrun) 02 Blast Off Clubnight (Wulfrun) 03 AWW Wrestling - Breaking Point (Wulfrun) 05 Little Mix (Civic) 05 Psychic Tony Stockwell (Wulfrun) 07 Boogie Nights (Civic) 08 Boogie Nights (Civic) 09 Blast Off Clubnight (Civic) 09 Patrick Wolf (Acoustic) (Wulfrun) 14 Mark Tremonti (Wulfrun) 15 Pete Firman - Hoodwinker

he fearsomely talented Cosmo Jarvis singlemindedly continues to demand more than passive appreciation from his swelling fanbase. Now we have his third album Think Bigger which originally came out in November, and in true Cosmo style this special edition not only contains the album but the DVD of his first feature film The Naughty Room and a bonus CD of the Naughty Room soundtrack. The Think Bigger album picked up 4 star reviews in Mojo, the Independent and Q as well as a Radio 4 Today programme feature. It also cemented Cosmo’s growing fanbase in Australia where he has just returned from a 3 week tour where 3 of his tracks made the Top 100 of 2012 on National radio station Triple J. The Naughty Room was premiered on BBC4 at the end of 2012 receiving glowing reviews for a debut feature. The Naughty Room is a black comedy dealing with abuse, death, drugs, sex and redemption and tells the story of Todd, a 20 year old who has been incarcerated since he was a child in a bathroom – the Naughty Room by his disturbed mother. When 20 year-old Subaru discovers the imprisoned Todd he unleashes a daring escape plan with unintended consequences. Cosmo is touring in February, stopping off at the Rainbow in Birmingham on the 28th February.

(Wulfrun) 16 Blast Off Clubnight (Wulfrun) 22 Kaiser Chiefs (Civic) 22 Jerry Sadowitz (Wulfrun) 23 Train (Civic) 23 Blast Off Clubnight (Wulfrun) 26-27 Moscow State Circus (Civic)

SLADE ROOMS, WOLVERHAMPTON

February 02 Forever Young Rock Clubnight 06 Orange Goblin 07 James Acaster 09 Miles Hunt & Erica Nockalls 13 Wes Borland´s Black Light Burns 15 The Bronx 16 Ovation presents Surrender The Coast + guests 23 The Union 24 Emma Scott Presents Greenwood Park 28 Grand Magus

The Phoenix–February 2013 Page 25

FASHION

The Phoenix–February 2013

Page 26 The Phoenix–February 2013

Page 3

NEWS

EDUCATION - IN PARTNERSHIP WITH Hereward College students team up with The Phoenix Newspaper