The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2018 by The Phoenix Newspaper

Promoting Diversity for Birmingham Commonwealth Games 2022

12 PAGE ANNIVERSARY SUPPLEMENT STARTS ON PAGE 19

DECEMBER 2018

Connecting Communities - Inspiring A New Generation

Inside This Month

signing the

covenant C elebrating and recognising the very best of the Commonwealth The Phoenix Newspaper 8th Anniversary Gala Dinner & Awards Show – in association with the West Midland Reserve Forces & Cadets

Association, truly was ‘The Very Best There Ever Was!’ It was also the perfect opportunity for all to celebrate the ‘Windrush Generation’ and the landmark 70th Anniversary of the docking of the Empire Windrush in Tilbury – plus

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marking the 70th Anniversary of the National Health Service as Professor Paul Cockwell from the NHS spoke alongside Paul Sabapathy CVO CBE. With specially invited guests, dignitaries, and business people gathered alongside high ranking

Armed Forces officers and service personnel, all those present left the ICC Birmingham with memories that, many themselves said, will last for a lifetime…and beyond.

Continued on Page 19

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oncerning asthma rates are revealed after the Council announce their plans to deal with pollution in the city centre. Birmingham City Council is planning to introduce a congestion charge as part of the bid for cleaner air by 2020. Figures have been released by the City Council after a study completed last year revealed that the concentration of nitrogen dioxide in Birmingham’s air is up to 50% higher than recommended levels. If the city’s air continues to worsen, pollution in Birmingham is estimated to reach illegal levels by 2027. A new initiative piloted on social media as #brumbreathes is encouraging Brummies to get involved in Birmingham’s journey to cleaner air. The proposed ‘Clean Air Zone’ is set to include all roads within the A4540 Middleway Ring Road. The cost of the charge is yet to be announced by officials, but it is rumoured that low emission or electric cars will not be charged. Rachel Albutt, from Cradley Heath, works in a retail store in the city centre and suffers with asthma. She told The Phoenix, “I definitely notice [the difference in the air] compared to the small town where I live, I can often taste the fumes at the back of my mouth. “When the council was redoing the

Will New Charge Make A Change? l Above: the Birmingham City Centre Skyline. Right: The Proposed Clean Air Zone

pavement outside using a diesel engine it was hard to walk by and I was wheezy for the two weeks [whilst road repairs were taking place].” This bid for cleaner, healthier air has come at an extremely important time for Birmingham as the population is growing, new buildings are going up, the rail services are developing, and the 2022 Commonwealth Games are just around the corner. A spokesperson for Birmingham City

Will there Be Trouble Ahead? A Political Review and Forecast

By Dr Tony Talburt

s we come to the end of another year, it is useful to look back at some of the major global political stories that made news headlines and consider the prospects for the new year. Four of the major issues are briefly examined here. All of them could have significant impact on the nature of global politics in 2019. The first of these that got everyone talking in one way or another, was the extreme weather observed all over the world, and the debates over climate change. The year began with news of the extreme winter as the east coast of America experienced the coldest temperatures on record in January. Remarkably, that month also witnessed snow in parts of the Sahara Desert! The UK experienced a severe heatwave in June and July and Sweden also suffered from unprecedented wild

fires in July which were associated with the very hot weather there. In fact, July could be classed as a truly crazy month as in Greece, some 93 people died as a result of wild fires there. This was followed by Japan’s heatwave of July and August as temperatures were also the highest ever recorded. To make matters worse, the country then experienced one of its worst typhoons in a generation. Unbelievably, July also saw some of the coldest weather in parts of South America where temperatures fell 20 degrees below the seasonal average for that time of the year. We then witnessed the destructive floods in France in August and finally California’s wildfire that destroyed the town of Paradise leaving several dozen people dead and thousands homeless in November. Politicians may argue whether these are due to global warming, but while they debate, it is quite likely that we will witness more extreme weather patterns in 2019.

Council says, “We are committed to improving air quality in Birmingham so people who live in, work in or visit the city can breathe clean air.” Asthma UK released figures last month showing that on average three people die from the disease every day, and it is becoming an increasingly worrying issue for the UK. Will the ‘Clean Air Zone’ really help people suffering from asthma in Birmingham? Dr Andy Whittamore, a GP said, “An estimated 3.3 million people who have asthma in the UK say that pollution triggers their asthma. Terrorism has been around for several decades, but the event on 11 September 2001, marked a turning point. According to the Guardian.com, (June 14 2018) The number of terrorism-related arrests in Britain reached new record levels. In the year ending 31 March, 2018, 441 people were held on suspicion of terrorism-related activity, the highest number of arrests in a year since data collection started in 2001, and an increase of 17% on the 378 in the previous year. Furthermore, If Statista sources are anything to go by, at least 8,584 terrorist attacks took place across the globe resulting in 18,753 deaths and 19,461 injuries in 2017. Despite the increased security measures and sophisticated technologies to combat terrorism, such attacks have continued to take place in parts of Asia, Africa, and Europe. One sure way to end terrorism is for the bellicose parties to come together and have dialogue, but since there is no major indication that this is happening with regard to the major terrorist groups, it is difficult to see significant improvement over the coming year. One leader who is making news all the time, is President Trump. He is certainly giving new meaning to Frank Sinatra’s song, ‘I did it my way.’ In May he announced that the embassy of Israel would be moved to Jerusalem. In June he held talks with North Korea’s Kim Jong Un and proudly declared,

“Poor air quality can leave people with asthma struggling for breath and increase their risk of a lifethreatening asthma attack especially at this time of year when there are viruses and colder air also triggering asthma symptoms.” The City Council has not yet announced a date for the Clean Air Zone charge. upon arriving back in Washington, that the nuclear threat from that country was over. We have to wait and see if this is really so. At least, North Korea has stopped hurling insults at America. We hope for Trump and everyone else’s sake, that they don’t start hurling nuclear weapons. There is, of course the continuing trade war with China over its unfair treatment of American goods. However, with the recent mid-term election results bringing the Democrats some degree of influence in the Congress, will this help to control some of the more audacious plans of the president? Only time will tell. Finally, for the last 18 months, Brexit has divided Britain and much of the debates concerning the other 27 members of the EU. Now that the EU has accepted the UK’s offer, all eyes will be on the UK to see whether the country, Parliament and the Conservative cabinet, will get behind Theresa May. If they do, we will witness two more years of debate, drama but possibly no dissolution of Parliament or leadership contest. If the country cannot come together, over this grand compromise that initially seems to please none of the extreme leave or remain camps, then there may be trouble ahead. Dialogue and compromise might be needed in all four areas cited above, but if personal egos dominate, then it will become difficult to see significant changes in 2019.

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Statue honours Sikh WW1 soldiers

10ft bronze statue of a Sikh soldier was unveiled to commemorate 100 years since the end of World War One (WW1). The work, in Smethwick, in the West Midlands, honours service personnel of all faiths from the Indian subcontinent who fought for Britain during it and other conflicts. Marked with a parade, the unveiling of ‘The Lions of the Great War’ was followed with Guru Nanak Gurdwara, who commissioned the statue, saying

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it made them "proud to be Sikh and proud to be British." The Gurdwara's president, Jatinder Singh, said: "We are so proud to be unveiling this memorial to honour the sacrifice of all those brave men who travelled thousands of miles to fight for a country that wasn't their own." Guru Nanak Gurdwara in Smethwick commissioned the £30,000 work by Black Country sculptor Luke Perry, which has been paid for by the local Sikh community. Perry said: "Great Britain owes

The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2018 - Page 3

much of its greatness to people whose history started in another land." Edgbaston MP, Preet Kaur Gill, who is chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group for British Sikhs, said: "Despite being small in number in British India, Sikhs played an important part in the War, making up more than a fifth of the British Indian Army. This statue will serve as a reminder to those Sikh soldiers who sacrificed their lives in defence of democracy and in the fight for freedom."

£5,000 Gift from The Cadbury Foundation

mployees from M o n d e l ē z International have chosen Sense, the national disability charity, to receive a grant of £5,000 from The Cadbury Foundation, as part of its ‘Your Charity, Your Choice’ scheme. The charity’s pioneering, multi-purpose TouchBase Pears centre, which provides specialist services for people with complex disabilities in Birmingham, will benefit from the grant. Staff from Mondelēz International have been supporting Sense throughout the summer. In May, they volunteered at a disabled-led arts festival at TouchBase Pears. Employees have also raised over £200 through fundraising activities at the Sense shops in Kingstanding and Shirley. Carl Williams, Community

Fundraising Manager at Sense, said: “We are delighted to have been chosen as a charity to benefit from the generosity of Mondelēz International. TouchBase Pears is a place that brings people together in a welcoming environment. The grant will enable Sense to continue to provide opportunities to the people we support in Birmingham.” Kelly Farrell, Community Affairs Manager at Mondelēz International, said: “We are extremely proud to be able to support the charities that are important to our employees through our ‘Your Charity, Your Choice’ scheme. Sense supports people with complex disabilities to be understood, connected with and valued. It is the perfect choice for this donation, and we’re delighted The Cadbury Foundation will be making such a difference.”

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Triple Award Win for Kuti’s Brasserie

Kuti’s Brasserie, the new fine dining Indian restaurant which opened in on the historic Royal Pier in Southampton this summer, has received three major accolades inside a week. On Sunday 17th November restaurateur Kuti Miah and chef Ravi Rai completed an incredible week when they were presented with the trophy for Best Newcomer, from BBC TV News presenter, Babita Sharm at the Asian Curry Awards 2018 at Grosvenor House, Park Lane in Mayfair. Earlier in the week Kuti’s Brasserie was named Restaurant of the Year by Scottish-based celebrity chef Tommy Miah at his International Indian Chef of the Year Awards 2018, also in London. A remarkable triple began when the restaurant received a prestigious Certificate of Excellence from Cobra Good Curry Guide Editor, Pat Chapman. “This is the proudest week of my life and is testament to the hard work we’ve put in in creating one of the most impressive destination venues on the south coast,” said Kuti Miah.

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Students Pay Respects With Touching Tribute S tudents from Great Barr Academy took part in a very touching tribute on Friday 10th November in their own Remembrance Day service. Held in the courtyard by their flagpole, students from every class from every year group in the school brought a handmade wooden poppy along with a handwritten message from the class. Messages, readings and the Last Post were performed, and

after the 2 minutes silence, they came up in pairs and added their part to the tribute. Each poppy had been handmade and the messages were heartfelt and touching. Headteacher Mrs Abrahams explained, “The students respect the tribute and these will be left untouched until they are sold for donations to the Poppy Appeal. “Some people will buy them, and contribute to the fund, but we will be keeping some for the school.

“We will also give some to the local care home that we do a lot of work with, they’ll really appreciate that.” This isn’t the first time that the school has made a tribute, the wreath from the previous year remained in place all year round without anyone tampering with it. It was a beautiful service, a lovely tribute and refreshing to see such polite and respectful students taking part in the day.

Reggae Music gets UN Sign of International Recognition

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has finally inscribed Reggae music on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity after Jamaica applied for it to be added to this year’s list. The confirmation came after a UNESCO meeting in Mauritius, where officials reviewed 40 proposals of which reggae was part.

In a statement UNESCO said; “While in its embryonic state Reggae music was the voice of the marginalized, the music is now played and embraced by a wide cross-section of society, including various genders, ethnic and religious groups. Its contribution to international discourse on issues of injustice, resistance, love and humanity underscores the dynamics of the element as being at once cerebral, socio-political, sensual and spiritual.”

Originating in Jamaica in the 1960s, Reggae music gained global acclaim especially in the United Kingdom and the United States thanks to Jamaican immigrants. Jamaica’s Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, said; “Reggae is uniquely Jamaican. It is a music that we have created that has penetrated all corners of the world.”

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HARE & HOUNDS l Channel 4 had been looking for a new home for months

Failed Ch4 bid a catalyst for creative future

o, whilst keeping a headquarters in London, broadcaster, Channel 4, decided to set up their new national HQ in Leeds (moving roughly 200 of its 800 staff to Yorkshire) as opposed to one-tie favourite, Birmingham and Manchester, in an attempt to boost the way it reflects life away from the capital. West Midlands Mayor Andy Street, who led the Birmingham bid, said: “While the news that Birmingham was not successful in

the bid to house the broadcaster’s new national HQ, the work that went into the bid has not been wasted. The one positive was the growing sense of collaboration and commitment across the region between local authorities, organisations and our creative industries leading to developments that are set to improve the creative landscape regardless of Channel 4’s decision. Through our Local Industrial Strategy, we remain committed

l Andy Street CBE, Mayor of the West Midlands

to ensuring we are home to a pre-eminent national creative and media cluster, and we will respond to high demand for production by investing in the television and film production capacity of the region by establishing new studio and production facilities. The West Midlands region came together as part of this process and now we look to the future as one, as commit to delivering initiatives and funding that will transform our creative industries." Birmingham City Council Leader, Councillor Ian Ward, added: "With a wealth of knowledge and creativity, talent and energy combined with one of the youngest and most diverse populations in Europe, Channel 4’s decision is a massive disappointment to all of those who have worked so hard to bring the broadcaster to here. That said, however, we will continue to be successful as city reinventing itself for the 21st century. I’m confident we will see many more successes in Birmingham in 2019.” The channel has also announced it will open "creative hubs" in Bristol and Glasgow, with around 50 staff in each.

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Library celebrates 80th anniversary in 1930s style

London library has celebrated its 80th anniversary, with residents attending a celebratory event with flamenco guitar playing, photography and poetry. The event, at St Ann’s Library, in Haringey, started with a welcome speech by Madam Deputy Mayor, Councillor Shelia Peacock. Visitors also heard a reading from local poet Abe Gibson, and there was face painting for younger guests. The era the library was opened in Tottenham was evoked with a 1930s photographic exhibition, book display and a 1938 film screened. Attending the event, Councillor Zena Brabazon, Cabinet Member for Civic Services, said: “Libraries play a vital role in the community, and it was fantastic to see residents coming together to celebrate 80 years of St Ann’s. We can all enjoy our libraries, whether it is attending craft,

singing or poetry sessions, joining free computer training classes, or picking up your favourite book. Haringey has some wonderful libraries and we had a fantastic day

of celebrations.” St Ann’s was built to a high standard of design and encouraged readers and literacy in the 1930s. All these years later in the 21st

Sikh Langar Group Receives Queen’s Award For Voluntary Service BUILD A BETTER YOU

Health and Wellbeing Starts Page 40

Sikh organisation in the Midlands was one of two to receive the highest Queen’s Award for voluntary service. Midland Langar Seva Society (MLSS) and Slough-based Langar Aid have won the award, which as per the UK Queen’s Award website is the ‘highest award given to local volunteer groups across the UK. MLSS was rewarded for ‘providing hunger reliefs, street feeds and aid in accordance with the teachings of the first Sikh Guru, Guru Nanak Dev Ji’, while Langar Aid was selected for ‘supporting

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the vulnerable and promoting equality by following the Sikh principle of sharing food.’ Randhir Singh Heer, co-founder of the Walsall-based Midland Langar Seva Society, said: “It has all been meher (blessings) of Guru

century, it is still providing a wonderful public service – and shows the value of public services more than ever.

Nanak Dev ji. We started as a small group in 2013 with 20-30 meals a week and now we are serving 20,000 meals a week in 22 cities of UK. We also run ‘Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Langar Bus’ which tours across UK and serves food to poor, homeless and needy.” Langar Aid is a project by UK-based global humanitarian aid organisation Khalsa Aid International (KIA) which aims at fighting hunger worldwide. CEO and founder, Ravi Singh, said: “There is nothing more rewarding than providing a meal to a hungry person. We are doing it in UK and worldwide. In UK, we did same during nationwide floods in 2014.”

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No Room At The Inn

ver 2000 years ago the birth of Jesus Christ was and still remains the real reason for the Christmas season and why it is celebrated later this month all over the world. His parents Mary and Joseph could find no room in the inn. He was born in Bethlehem the land of Judah in a manger in a stable and was wrapped in swaddling clothes. A clear case of homelessness, poverty and humble beginnings. One cannot think of a worst-case scenario for a pregnant woman to give birth during that time period surrounded by animals. Fast forward to 2018 and the level of homelessness, rough sleepers, people with no roof over their head and leading a nomadic lifestyle in 21st Century Britain is shocking beyond belief. Many understandably have complex needs and surely did not choose to join the ever growing numbers of people without a place to live. I remember reading media reports in the build up to the 2012 London Olympics and various royal weddings where in order to save face, avoid shame and embarrassment various councils cleared the homeless from city streets as visitors came to this country. That was their cynical way of masking the growing problem of homelessness by pretending it does not exist. The Group of Seven (G7) consisting of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United States and the United Kingdom are the richest nations in the world and the alarming level of people facing yet another winter of misery sleeping outdoors in Britain has reached a crisis level that cannot be ignored. The austerity measures the country has faced over many years and lack of altruism have blighted Britain in so many ways and

homelessness ranks highly among them. Sometimes the term ‘cardboard city’ is used as a reference to the large number of places where the homeless pitch their tent so to speak. Paul Young’s classic song Where Ever I Lay My Hat That’s My Home springs to mind as the conscience of both local and central government leaves a lot to be desired in allowing this situation to have developed over such a long period of time. For some rough sleepers it has become the norm and is a way of life which needs to be dealt with in a meaningful way as nobody in the 21st Century in Britain should be caught up in this dire situation. We need to remain non-judgemental as the adverbial phrase ‘There, but for the grace of God, go I’ is a recognition that others’ misfortune could be one’s own, if it weren’t for the blessing of the Divine or for one’s luck. Homelessness is truly a scourge of modern day Britain and much more needs to be done to address this problem and not just shelters and cooked meals being offered at Christmas after which the people affected are forgotten for a whole year. Where there is a will there is a way and although some religious denominations and other charitable organisations play their part in addressing the plight of the homeless all year round with soup kitchens, etc I urge Government officials to do play a vital role in alleviating the misery, heartache, pain and suffering of a large neglected population of society. Make room in the inn for others and distribute the vast wealth that is in this country in a more equitable fashion for everyone to benefit. May I end by with compliments of the Yuletide season to all the readers of the Phoenix newspaper.

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Page 8 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2018

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t the National M e m o r i a l Arboretum business leaders, dignitaries and members of the armed forces came together to celebrate those companies who have achieved Silver Award in the Employer Recognition Scheme, launched in 2014 by the Prime Minister. Recognising employer support for the wider principles of the Armed Forces Covenant, and those who pledge, demonstrate and advocate support to Defence and the Armed Forces Community, including Reservists, Service leavers, Veterans, the wounded, injured and sick, Cadets, military spouses or partners and their families. Those recognised on the day included Accord, Aspire

Supported Living CIC, Black Country Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Black Country Housing Group, The Busters Group, E.ON UK, Highways England, The Next Step (Veterans Transition) Ltd, North Warwickshire Borough Council, Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council, Samuel Jones Pearls, University Centre Shrewsbury, Wace Morgan Limited and Wasps Rugby Football Club. Compered by Michael Collie from the BBC, and Honorary Colonel of the Warwickshire and West Midlands (South Sector) Army Cadet Force and a with a keynote message from Air ViceMarshal Aroop Mozumder CB, the celebrations concluded with a short remembrance service at the National Memorial.

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Tropical Sun Shines T During Jamaica Visit

The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2018 - Page 9

ropical Sun’s‘Made in Jamaica’ range has been produced at their factory in Central Village Jamaica for over 20 years. The factory, which is owned and staffed by Jamaicans, currently employs over 200 members of the local community, and sustains several hundred more jobs outside of the factory. The range includes Jamaica’s national fruit, Ackee, Callaloo, Jerk Seasoning, Breadfruit, Scotch Bonnet Hot Pepper Sauce, Crushed Red Chilli Sauce, Guava Jam and Rundown Sauce. The ackee that supplies the factory is consistently of the highest quality due to it being sourced through a network of suppliers who are all trained to identify and source the best of the best. Unlike many foods, which are industrially farmed, ackee grows on trees on hillsides and in peoples’ yards. “Our suppliers build relationships with people who own ackee trees; families, retirees etc, and buy the ackee from them at an agreed price,” explained Tropical Sun. “Many of these people depend on this ackee money to feed their families, buy their medications etc. Sales of our ackee go to supporting a huge network of people across Jamaica. “The ackee is truly a gift from the soil of Jamaica, to its people.” Representatives from Tropical Sun recently visited the Central Village factory, where they met

with the local people that create their products. During their visit, the Tropical Sun team met with the Minister of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture & Fisheries, Audley Shaw CD MP, and Minister without Portfolio the Honourable J C Hutchinson MP who were full of praise for the brand as innovators and investors in Jamaica. He also acknowledged the company’s extensive 20+ year contribution to Jamaica. Besides growing the international demand for Caribbean and African foods, resulting in the creation of many hundreds of jobs in Caribbean and African countries, Tropical Sun has, for many years, also quietly supported a number of community projects in those regions. Notable examples include its ‘Classrooms for Jamaica’ and ‘Marfo Children Care Foundation’ campaigns. In addition to continuing projects with each of the schools, the company also wants to aid in connecting the Diaspora in the United Kingdom with what they are doing in Jamaica. They also want to boost that connection through their community projects. Tropical Sun Foods remains committed to investing in the communities where their factory employees live and work while maintaining their legacy of providing high-quality, authentic Jamaican products to their target market.

l Paul Harrison with Kapil Wadhwani, Director of Tropical Sun (middle right) presenting Minister of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture & Fisheries, Audley Shaw CD MP, and Minister without Portfolio the Honourable J C Hutchinson MP with a Tropical Sun Hamper

l Workers at the Central Village Tropical Sun factory preparing a variety of products including the national fruit, Ackee.

l Kapil Wadhwani with two of the factory workers.

Page 10 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2018

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- EDUCATION, TRAINING & RECRUITMENT -

g n i t o Prom xcellence E

As part of our ongoing commitment to promoting the positive and inspirational individuals and organisations in our communities, The Phoenix Newspaper presents Promoting Excellence - a closer look at our role models, entrepreneurs, community figures and success stories.

Kids shame speeding drivers into slowing down

rivers caught speeding outside a West Midlands school have been shamed into slowing down – by being hauled in front of a court of schoolchildren. Motorists caught in an operation outside Bristnall Hall Academy in Oldbury were given the option of a fine or to face Year 8 pupils asking difficult questions about why they were breaking the speed limit. Nine motorists were caught speeding near to the school during the operation yesterday (Thursday 8 November) – with the highest speed recorded being 38mph in a 30mph zone.

It’s the first time a Sandwell high school has hosted the ‘Kids Court’ sessions, which have already been run at several primary schools around the borough. The campaign is run by the council’s road safety team in partnership with West Midlands Police and West Midlands Fire Service. The sessions see children educated about the dangers and consequences of speeding. They also design banners urging drivers to slow down outside their school. One driver caught speeding who ended up being quizzed by the pupils said: “It was very intense and made me feel very

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vulnerable. Probably like the people I could have hurt.” He added that attending Kids Court had made him feel: “so bad, I’m embarrassed. Speeding affects other people not just me. I will be more aware in the future of my speed.” Sandwell Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Environment, Councillor David Hosell, said: “These sessions are really valuable – not only for educating the speeding drivers who get stopped, but for the children as well. “Although road safety has improved hugely in Sandwell over the past decade, we can’t be complacent.”

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l Kids Court in session at Bristnall Hall Academy

BCU Graduate Wins National Accolade

University Research Sniffs Out How the Black Country Smells In partnership with Black Country Living Museum, Wolverhampton Art Gallery and the Black Country Chamber of Commerce the University of Wolverhampton secured funding to undertake pioneering research that explores past and present smells of the Black Country. Two community research events, entitled; ‘Snidge Scrumpin,’ were held at the Black Country Living Museum and Wolverhampton Art Gallery as part of the Being Human Festival, the only national festival of the humanities in the UK. In Black Country dialect, ‘Snidge’ means ‘nose’ and ‘Scrumpin’’ is ‘foraging’. The University has secured over £2,000 funding to conduct the research with a Philosopher of the Senses, a psychologist and a Black Country writer giving introductory talks, following the research activity. The events, themed around

‘origins and endings,’ were selected to be part of Being Human by the festival organisers, the Arts & Humanities Research Council (AHRC), the British Academy (BA), and the School of Advanced Study, University of London (SAS). The Being Human Festival, were part of a 10 day national programme of big ideas, big debates and engaging activities for all ages, championing excellence in humanities research in the West Midlands. Sebastian Groes, Professor of English Literature in the School of Humanities at the University of Wolverhampton, said: “Smell is unique because it has the ability to take us right back to our childhood. “Snidge Scrumpin’ maps the specific smells that belong to the Black Country, from Banks’s Brewery’s hoppy stink to groaty pudding and spicy curry.”

A Birmingham City University Radiotherapy graduate has won a prestigious award which will be presented by the Society of Radiographers at a ceremony in November. Lily Aston, who now works in the Cancer Centre at Royal Stoke University Hospital, was nominated by Lisa Pharaoh-Stokes, Birmingham City University’s Course Lead for Radiotherapy, after achieving a first class degree from the institution. Birmingham City University offers a three year Radiotherapy course, the only one if its kind in the Midlands, covering oncology, radiotherapy technology and psychosocial issues surrounding cancer care, preparing graduates to become fully qualified Therapeutic Radiographers. As part of her degree, Lily decided to travel to Antigua and study at the Cancer Centre Eastern Caribbean, where she worked with a diverse population across a group of islands. In May, Lily became the face of therapeutic radiography in Health Education England’s latest campaign to raise the profile of the profession as a career option. Lily said: “It is such an honour to be recognised by the Society of Radiographers, and I am absolutely over the moon to win this award.”

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The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2018 - Page 11

Be The Change

he first ever Gandhi Peace Centre in the United Kingdom was opened on November 10th 2018, during the two-year long celebrations of the 150th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi’s birth. Set in the grounds of the Shri Venkateswara Balaji Temple in Tividale, the centre was inaugurated by Mrs Rajashree

Birla, Director of the Aditya Birla Group who supported the creation of the centre. Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands unveiled the statue of Mahatma Gandhi after the Consul General of India, Dr Aman Puri unveiled the plaque for the Peace Centre. On the eve of UK Interfaith week, the event included in attendance the Chairman

of Balaji Temple Trust Dr. Kanagaratnam, Mayor of Sandwell Cllr Joy Edis, Vice Lord Lieutenant, Deputy Lord Lieutenant Prof. Gatrad Lord Bhikhu Parekh, Lord Popat, Mayor of Telford and Wrekin Rajash Mehta, Baroness Sandip Verma, Deputy Lieutenant Gurpreet Bhatia and Mr. H.S. Bhatia, Chairman, Sandwell Confederation of Indians.

Minister A.S. Rajan from the High Commission of India, London shared his views on relevance of Gandhi’s message in the contemporary world with the attendees. He lauded the efforts of Balaji Trust and Aditya Birla Group for setting up the Peace Centre, and hoped that it will be able to carry the message of Mahatma Gandhi far and wide.

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Page 12 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2018

The impact of Information Technology on Community Resilience with Dr Christopher Johnson

ince May 2017, a small reputable social enterprise, SIAN Computers Community Initiative, has been utilising its core competence of informatics to effect technology resilience. Situated at 16 Broadway, Bushbury, the firm provides invaluable services to residents in Low Hill, Heath Town and their environs in Wolverhampton. IT users – young and matured citizens as well as firms - are affected by cyber bullying, data theft and fake news. These trends have given rise to distortions and falsities of what fundamentally, information technology represents in the modern age. Directors Robert Allen and Alfred Williams, are convinced that SIAN’s motto, “To improve the quality of digital orientation for local neighbourhoods to contribute to the development process” can aid in changing perceptions about new technologies. Recently, the organisation won a European Social Fund (ESF) bid to deliver training and vocational support, using in part, gaming technology. The objective is to build the capability and capacity of individuals, groups and communities with collaboration from traders, faith groups, schools and voluntary organisations. According to the Standard Industrial Classification (SIC, 2017) model, IT is worth billions with high levels of unitary segmentation. These range from computer games, software programming, database management, consulting, data analysis and systems analysis among other sub-sectors. Unlike other fledging and under-resourced IT companies, SIAN’s work is evidenced by a variety of needs analyses: • Early school-leavers are unable to work because of ‘no

ward-wInnIng journalist, editor and publisher Dr Christopher Johnson writes his monthly column in The Phoenix aiming to inform, educate and entertain.

qualifications’, with little over 10% reaching ‘A-Level stage’, lacking confidence, self-esteem with no idea of time-keeping and discipline (Big Local Plan, Wolverhampton 2018, page 39). • Impoverished families are struggling with obesity and related forms of ill-health, poor or low literacy and numeracy rates. Unable to manage complex issues affecting their overall wellbeing (Digital technology focus group July 2018, Wolverhampton). • Residents with learning and physical disabilities experience anxiety and depression. The proportion of disabled learners including special education needs, is higher than the national average (Scotlands and Bushbury Hill Profile, Wolverhampton 2018, page 39). • Elders are keen to redevelop literacy and numeracy skills, as they lack confidence in the use of technology. They are keen to improve team work, networking and communication skills overall (IT Practice Sessions July 2018, Bushbury). Local Member of Parliament, Emma Reynolds, and city officials, have commended SIAN for its cultural and social regeneration endeavours which entail maximising technology to bridge the generation gap. The firm’s example has greatly inspired further interest in local agency co-operation to widen the scope of local and city-wide employability and entrepreneurial opportunities. To their credit, Allen and Williams see their main goal as “providing communities and groups chances to utilise technology to enhance their cultural, economic and social lives”. From all indicators, SIAN will accomplish this redoubtable informatics feat.

l Director Rob Allen with one of SIAN’s successful apprentices

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Brave Aseefa starts awareness campaign Woman of Excellence: A young woman battling the same disease that killed her siblings creates a campaign to raise awareness.

l Aseefa Sultan

“

By Esther Ogunfeitimi

I used to hide away because of my face, and I’ve never been the most confident of people, always feeling out of place and ‘weird’.” But after overcoming the fear of being judged, Aseefa Sultan – a former student from Birmingham - started her campaign to raise awareness about the disease she lives with, but which killed two of her brothers. Aseefa was diagnosed with the rare disease Osteopetrosis at just 6 weeks old. Sounding similar to Osteoporosis, it’s dangerously different. Osteopetrosis causes special bone cells called osteoclasts to function abnormally. When they work normally, they break down old bone tissues to help form new tissue. But in someone who has Osteopetrosis, the old tissue remains, building up and overcrowding the bones, leading to immense pressure on nerves, usually in the head and spine. Those pressures can often be fatal. As Aseefa’s family soon discovered. She never got to meet one of her two brothers. Adeel, the eldest, was only 8 when he died due to multiple organ failure from complication from a bone marrow transplant. Then her younger brother Deen died at the age of 4. It was inevitable that she would also inherit the disease, and after an early childhood filled with regular doctor’s appointment and surgeries, in 2008 she needed neurosurgery at Birmingham Children's Hospital due to haemorrhages in the back of her eyes, caused by the increased pressure on her skull. “Anyone who has known me since before then will agree when

NHS charity’s Christmas single has the ‘X Factor’ It’s got the X-mas Factor – that’s the verdict from one famous music mogul for the new charity single released by an NHS Trust as ‘Simon Cowell’ made a special appearance at the launch of ‘O Holy Night,’ performed by The Heartbeats Choir at an West Midlands school – or so it seemed. In fact it was Dudley-based lookalike Andy Monk who attended the official first performance of the single, which has been recorded in conjunction with Bristnall Hall Academy, in Oldbury, and Your Trust Charity, which is run by Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust. Featuring the vocal talents of students, teachers, school governors, Police Community

l Richard Samuda, Chairman at Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust, with Johnny Shah, Head of Your Trust Charity, Simon Cowell lookalike Andy Monk, Amanda Winwood, Fundraising Manager for Your Trust Charity, and Ru Safety Officers, healthcare workers, and local celebrity Kash “the Flash” Gill, the four-times world Kickboxing champion, the

song will go head-to-head with the winner of this year’s hit TV show X Factor and other charttopping artists.

I say I’ve never been the same since, and I never will be”, Aseefa told The Phoenix “My biggest regret was not pursuing my education due to my health. I ended up sitting at home a lot, wondering what I was doing with my life. I got diagnosed with depression.” But in the end Aseefa found her passion: dedicating her time to researching her condition with the hope of finding more people in the UK who have it. Her Mum, Sham, has also managed to find positives through the heartache of losing her boys. When the doctors told her about her daughter’s condition, she made the decision to study Childcare. She now works with children with Special Needs. The mother of five, aged 54, told The Phoenix, “I broke down. I couldn’t believe it. It had happened again. Why?” “Things started coming back to me. Adeel in a hospital bed, tubes coming out of him, oxygen being given. I prayed and prayed that Aseefa was ok.” Aseefa has never let her health or the daunting stares from people in the street stop her. Part of her jaw had to be replaced by a titanium plate, after surgery three years ago at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital. She now works tirelessly – driven by the memory of her brothers and the lack of awareness about the condition, offering supporting to other sufferers around the world. Aseefa’s also designed shirts and jumpers to spread the word and hopes to one day even take steps to find a cure. She will be holding a talk in early December to raise awareness for Osteopetrosis. To find out more visit: https://www.facebook. com/Osteopetrosis.Awareness

There was also support from the West Bromwich Albion mascot Baggie Bird. Cash raised from sales will go towards enhancing the experience of patients, visitors and staff to Sandwell, City and Rowley Regis Hospitals, which are run by the Trust. The idea was conceived by Amanda Winwood, Fundraising Manager at Your Trust Charity with record producer James Callaghan. Amanda said: “We are so excited about the release of our single ‘O Holy Night.’ Even ‘Simon Cowell’ gave it the thumbs up. It’s a heart-warming song with every penny raised through sales of this single going straight towards helping our charity enhance the patient experience our Trust is known for. “I’m asking everybody to support us by downloading the single for 99p or buy one of our limited edition CDs for £5.”

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The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2018 - Page 13

Music fashion Film Gadgets holiday education health and fitness

DECEMBER 2018

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THE CHAMP

HAMILTON the ‘Fresh Prince’ on the starting GRID

Page 14 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2018

ENTERTAINMENT

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THE HOTTEST ENTERTAINMENT SUPPLEMENT

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Editors note W

e are on a high from the amazing Phoenix 8th Anniversary Gala Dinner and Awards Presentation. The Armed forces, Birmingham City University amongst many others had a triumphant win at this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most glitzy award ceremony. Street Cred magazine presented the next generation award to well deserved winner T Roadz who out voted the likes of Lotto Boyzz, Lady Leshurr and

www.streetcredmagazine.com

/markdwaynemedia

Stormzy.

Our readers knew who they wanted to win in this competitive category. The ICC was filled with Celebrities, dignitaries and government officials on all tables. The event was truly remarkable and many left saying it was the greatest event they have ever been too. You had to be there to experience the atmosphere, all communities connecting

under one roof and sharing positive energy which is exactly what our Newspaper is about. Rush to our massive section boasting beautiful pictures of the star studded event and now everyone is already excited for the next one in 2019.

/markdwaynemedia /bigscreenphoenix /thephoenixnewspaper /streetcredmagazineonline

Stefflon Don is smashing it differently Stefflon Don's Instagram is so entertaining she really gets her fans involved, she shares with us what outfits she should wear in videos and even does live conversations with big stars so we can all see. The legendary Lil Kim went live with her on Instagram and believe it was a moment who would have thought that this link up would happen? Its all poppin off for many UK Artists right now and personally this is my favourite at this time. She has it all going on and I am not just talking about her body, I do like her songs ha.

Keyshia Cole and Joe set for tour 2019 Two R&B greats are set to tour the UK, Joe and Keyshia Cole headline O2 Academy Birmingham Manchester Academy and the Apollo London This will be an amazing Old

Skool R&B show that we at Streetcred look forward to as we have championed the genre for many years. For events 2019 is looking pretty fly!

UK Legend Craig David announces another big tour

Stormzy to headline Glastonbury 2019 /MarkDwayneMedia /MarkDwayneMedia

We missed Glastonbury this year but now they have announced 2019 return and their first headliner Stormzy OMG we cant wait already!

Music festivals in the UK are getting more diverse each year. Big up to Jay Z who broke the mould of it being a rock festival.

Every year since the combecak has been nonstop work for the phenomenal artist that is Craig David. There is no denying that musically he is a genious and that is what sells him, unlike many other stars who use gimmick

Front Cover Image by User Jen_ross83 on Flickr under Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0)

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The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2018 - Page 15

ENTERTAINMENT

New Market adding to Frankfurt Success

s the ever-popular festive Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market embraces its regularly huge following for yet another year, the city has added a new Christmas Market and Santa Grotto for 2018.

Whilst visitors from near and far returning to Birmingham's Victoria Square and New Street for what is the largest outdoor Christmas market in the country - sitting at the centre of Birmingham’s festive celebrations, the new Christmas Market and Santa grotto, at

Birmingham Cathedral, is home to one of the largest Christmas trees in the city. The new outdoor market, in the grounds of Birmingham Cathedral, is offering an alternative festive family experience to the annual German market as Christmas

Velvet Saturdays Broad St Birmingham

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he ultimate party with DJ Corey Mark Dwayne and Mister

The no 1 award winning night rocks each and every Saturday with djs playing the best in Club Classics R&B Hiphop and Dancehall. Get your skin down there and enjoy all the entertainment provided throughout the night.

Prayers in their Millions have been sent to P Diddy and his children lately for the loss of his close and longest relationship Kim Porter who was found dead in her home. This has been a very traumatic time for the combs family, Diddy has been very brave and still continues to be positive and share his words of hope to people who are going through the same thing he is.

Prayers for Kim Porter

at Birmingham Cathedral (St Philip's) includes an outdoor market and grotto in Cathedral Square this year. With the Frankfurt Markets featuring its wide range of traditional handmade toys, art, and items from throughout the world, as well as plenty of food and drink, including German mulled wine (Glühwein), German beer, German sausages (including bratwurst, currywurst, krakauer and more) vegetarian options, pretzels, pizza, burgers, carols singers, live music and an ornate carousel and much more, the new and unique Christmas market with its own Santa grotto in the heart of the city is another major addition to ever-changing, ever-developing second city. Declaring the Cathedral’s commitment to engaging with the local community, Anna Pitt, chief executive at Birmingham Cathedral, said: "I am delighted

that the market is offering commuters and those who work in the city an opportunity to dwell in Cathedral Square, enjoy the market and spend time with their family and friends in the city centre. Those who visit the cathedral this year, whether for worship, the market, carols or events will find a very warm welcome." Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market is a firm fixture in the city’s annual calendar and, together with the neighbouring Christmas Craft Market, a massive

favourite with both residents and visitors to the city from across the UK and Europe. Birmingham comes alive every winter with the arrival of the Market, a clear sign that Christmas is just around the corner. With more than 80 stalls there is something for everyone. The largest authentic German Christmas market outside of Germany or Austria, Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market runs until December 23 whilst the new, equally-vibrant Christmas Market and Santa grotto is open until December 22.

Page 16 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2018

ENTERTAINMENT

www.streetcredmagazine.com

Hype-Man, Will, an additional ‘Honour’ for Champ, Lewis Hamilton went on to claim a comfortable victory -- capping off the most impressive championship win of his career -- but arguably his and Smith's finest display came shortly before they

by Steve Williams

ewis Hamilton credited an unconventional spot of preparation with "big brother" Will Smith for his victory in the final race of the Formula One season, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix having already tied-up the title beforehand, as he now sits

supreme at the top of the sport’s zenith – alongside his fellow ‘greatest ever,’ Juan Manuel Fangio and Michael Schumacher as the only driver to win at least five F1 Championships. Hamilton, crowned champion in October, invited his friend Smith to the race, as the Hollywood actor had put attending a Formula One

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grand prix with the British driver on his bucket list. The two men were front and centre for the prerace drivers' parade, and Smith continued to play a starring role in the broadcast, running across the track with a green flag before the start and trying his hand at working a trackside camera.

made their way to the grid. In a staged piece for the cameras, Hamilton appeared tied up while Smith told him he was taking his spot inside the cockpit for the race. "Look, here's the deal,” Smith said. “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for me, man! You already won, man! Just save something for other people. You Black, I'm Black, ain't nobody gonna know the difference." On the track – and it was definitely Lewis in the Mercedes cockpit - his 11th season-win, which he accredited to his ‘hypeman,’ Will, was clear indication that, at 33, and already equally Argentine Fangio’s record, he’s still hungry for more and to, perhaps, surpass German legend, Schumacher’s 7-time total. Something Her Majesty might bear in mind come her ‘New Year’s…’ Suits you ‘Sir,’ eh, Lew - the ‘Fresh Prince’ on the starting block.

Jordan Retro 13!

The bosss Basketball trainer Jordan is still the past present and future. No stopping the phenomenal designs from the man Michael Jordan Himself ..what a range!

Gig Listings BIRMINGHAM O2 ACADEMY

December 04 Midland 04 Cypress Hill 05 Chase Atlantic 06 The Cardigans 07 Graveyard 07 Blossoms 08 Popcaan 08 The Smyths 09 Hozier 10 D Block Europe 10 WSTR 12 Fireball 13 Jacob Banks 13 Ocean Colour Scene 14 Denzel Curry 14 Ocean Colour Scene 15 The Twang 15 Ryders Creed Xmas Party 21 False Modesty 22 Clutch 23 Nathan Dawe Live #0121

O2 INSTITUTE

December 07 Nuns Of The Tundra 08 808 State: 30 08 August Burns Red 08 Black Water Fiend 10 Razorlight 11 Sneakbo 11 Von Hertzen Brothers 12 Bury Tomorrow 14 Skengdo X AM 14 Lily Allen 31 MTV Base - The Big NYE Birmingham

RESORTS WORLD ARENA

December 08 Jeff Wayne’s The War Of The Worlds 16 BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2018 20-24 Elf: A Christmas Spectacular

ARENA BIRMINGHAM

December 07 Lea Michele and Darren Criss 10 Nightwish 11 Black Stone Cherry 13 André Rieu 15 Madness 16 Nile Rodgers & CHIC 17 Def Leppard 21 UB40

NEC

December 01-22 Christmas Party World 15-16 Ladies Kennel Association 27 Toy Collectors Fair

TOWN HALL & SYMPHONY HALL

December 06 Jools Holland 06 David O’Doherty 06 Soweto Kinch 06 Jazzlines Free Gigs: Sally Minchin 07 Handel: Messiah 2018 08 The Overtones 08 Town Hall Gospel Choir: 10 Year Anniversary Concert 08 The Overtones 08-09 Christmas with The Salvation Army 09 John Wilson & John Wilson Orchestra “At The Movies” 12 Bruch’s Violin Concerto 12 BBC WM Christmas Show In Memory of Ed Doolan 13 John Rutter’s Christmas Celebration 14 Midlands Hospitals’ Choir: Sing Noël! 15 Christmas Spectacular with Special Guest Kimberley Walsh 15 A Choral Christmas with Matt Baker 16 Gaelynn Lea 16 Choir Of Kings College Cambridge 17-18 A Choral Christmas with

l Nile Rodgers & CHIC hit Arena Birmingham on the 16th Alan Titchmarsh 18 Christmas Music by Candlelight 19 Maddy Prior and The Carnival Band: Carols & Capers 19 Love Actually with Live Orchestra 21 Monski Mouse’s Baby Disco Dance Hall– Christmas Special 22 White Christmas 22 Talon - The Best of Eagles 22 Families Together At Christmas 23 Christmas Carol Singalong 23 A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens 24 Carols By Candlelight 24-30 The Tiger Who Came To Tea 28 Glenn Miller Orchestra 28 The Music of Zimmer vs Williams 29 Star Wars & Beyond: A John Williams Spectacular 29 Tchaikovsky Spectacular 30 Piano Legends 31 New Years Eve Gala

SLADE ROOMS, WOLVERHAMPTON

December 07 Cheeky Monkey 08 Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club 13 Heather Findlay Trio 14 Bon Jovi Forever - ‘One wild night tour 15 Pop Will Eat Itself - Xmas Show 21 The Final Wolftown 31 Laugh Out Loud Comedy

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The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2018 - Page 17

NEED A NEW CAREER?

Are you driven to succeed?

Looking for a career in Media?

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Page 18 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2018

ENTERTAINMENT

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X Factor Live Tour line up announced

he X Factor’s eight quarter-final acts will star in The X Factor Live Tour 2019. The top eight artists confirmed to go on the tour are: Dalton Harris, Scarlett Lee, Anthony Russell, Danny Tetley, Acacia & Aaliyah, Brendan Murray, Shan Ako and Bella Penfold. Dalton Harris has had three of his songs enter the iTunes Top 30 during the live shows so far, including I Have Nothing, Creep and California Dreamin’, while his Big Band Week performance of Beyoncé’s Listen entered the Top 20 on iTunes, peaking at No. 15, the highest peak of the series so far. Anthony Russell’s rendition of Eye of the Tiger was the stand out performance of Movie Week with the audience reaction overpowering even the judges’ comments. Scarlett Lee has been impressing the audience and judges every week with her beautiful vocals and incredible range. Also joining the line-up are Brendan Murray, whose powerful

Judges’ Houses performance brought tears to guest judge Nile Rodgers; the youngest act in the competition Acacia & Aaliyah; inspirational singer and rapper Bella Penfold; Shan Ako, whose emotional and raw performances have created some of the series’ most memorable moments; and Northern singing powerhouse Danny Tetley.

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Experience The

Magic

The X Factor Live Tour – with each concert to be hosted by presenter Becca Dudley – will hit Birmingham in February 2019. The X Factor Tour has been seen by more than three million people since it began 14 years ago, making it one of the UK’s most successful annual arena tours.

f there is something that is sure to light up the world for any child, it is seeing their favourite Disney characters brought to life on the ice. 2019 brings a new Disney

On Ice to the UK and to Birmingham’s Genting Arena from the 3rd April to the 7th. You will enter the dazzling world of adventure at The Wonderful World of Disney On Ice! Joining hosts and favourites, Mickey and Minnie Mouse you will be taken on an inspiring walk down memory lane in celebration of

magic and family fun. Dory, with friends Nemo and Marlin return to embark upon a new adventure across the ocean as they look to discover the real meaning of family. The mystical

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- 8TH ANNIVERSARY FEATURE SPONSORED BY MCDONALD’S

The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2018 - Page 19

8th Anniversary Gala Dinner And Awards

sponsored by

Celebrating the International Paper with a Local Heart l Marcia is showcased to the room by Nigerian Royalty following her Traditional Head Wrapping Continued from Front Page

Sponsored, supported by and supporting the likes of the Army, Royal Navy, Royal Air Force, the Birmingham Commonwealth Association (BCA) & the Greater Birmingham Commonwealth Chamber of Commerce, Town Hall/Symphony Hall, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, West Midlands Police, McDonald’s, the Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO), Love Your Postcode, Birmingham City University, Tropical Sun, Victoria Mutual Building Society, Tasty Pastry, Crownsway Insurance Brokers, KG Miles Opticians, Grace Foods UK, Saleh & Sons, representatives from the Jamaican and Nigerian High Commissions, and the Indian Consulate, the Guru Nanak

Nishkam Sewak Jatha (GNNSJ), and BOPA (British Organisation for People of Asian Origin), ‘diversity’ was the narrative – as it always is. Celebrated individuals present included the Jamaican Deputy High Commissioner Angella RoseHowell, CTO’s Johnson JohnRose all the way from Barbados, Thandiwe Banda, former First Lady of Zambia, BCA Chair Keith Stokes-Smith, President of the Greater Birmingham Commonwealth Chamber of Commerce, ITV quiz show The Chase’s ‘Dark Destroyer’ Shaun Wallace, Olympics Games javelin gold medal-winning legend Tessa Sanderson and Mo George (who played EastEnders’ lovable Gus Smith). It was a magic night which proved,

yet again, to be the zenith of the dreams and aspirations met by TPN Media Founder/Editorin-Chief Marcia McLaughlin – and, boy, did people turn-out in droves to acknowledge her achievements. Keala Settle’s hit; ‘This Is Me’ would describe a night where ‘The Phoenix Newspaper 8th Anniversary Gala Dinner & Awards Show’ was also broadcasted live, on Power 106 FM, in Jamaica – the radio station’s Communication Specialist, Dervan Malcolm, producing it live to the Caribbean direct from the UK with additional coverage by Ricky Dehaney from the BBC. This night was bigger than some might have realised – highlighting the

very best of Britain’s diverse and connected communities on a world stage! You couldn’t get better. In a spiritually-charged evening, emotions would prove to be on a high

Page 20 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2018

- 8TH ANNIVERSARY FEATURE SPONSORED BY MCDONALD’S

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l Keith Stokes-Smith, Chairman of BCA and President of GBCCC l Air Vice Marshal Mozumder

l Johnson JohnRose, Communications Specialist, Caribbean Tourism Organisation

l HRH Princess Moradeun Adedoyin-Solarin

l Bhai Sahib Bhai Dr Mohinder Singh OBE KSG

l Henry Bonsu

from the ‘get-go’ as the introduction video set the theme for the night. As a champion of inclusion, connecting communities and inspiring a new generation whilst celebrating today’s diverse melting pot, The Phoenix Newspaper 8th Anniversary Gala Dinner & Awards Show was under way as broadcaster, Anita Bhalla OBE, opened proceedings. Fellow broadcaster, Henry Bonsu, for the second year running, showed his stellar class as, again, as compere, he would make sure this was a night to remember for all. With opening speeches by Ms. McLaughlin and Assistant Editor, Daniel Riley, the tone was set. “Marcia McLaughlin is a pure and powerful mother fiercely protective of her community – a community that is not divided by ethnicity, culture, or class,” said Birmingham Lord Mayor, Councillor Yvonne Mosquito. “Hers is unified in its humility.” Cllr. Mosquito went on to say: “She is, without doubt, a living and highly influential woman who is loved by all who understand what it takes to achieve anything in an often hostile environment – Marcia is one of our own ‘Royals’.” Heart-felt sentiments that would be the catalyst for a very special night. In his speech, West Midlands Metro Mayor, Andy Street CBE, said. “Thank you for being a beacon. And thank you for bringing our community together and bringing to focus the vital contribution that the Windrush Generation made to our great region.”

Representing the Armed Forces Air Vice-Marshal Mozumder took to the stage and talked of his elevated rise and emotional battles along the way. In talking of the importance of The Phoenix Newspaper and its role in bringing communities and cultures together, he also talked of his struggles in overcoming acceptance in the Royal Air Force and struggles to being accepted in his own community. But, with the likes of The Phoenix Newspaper – and especially with Ms. McLaughlin at the helm, showing that barriers of whatever difficulty can be overcome, “that was – and still is to an extent, my story. “And I thank the RAF for affording me the opportunity to reach my life’s ‘goal’.” A very special moment would follow and the signing, by Ms. McLaughlin, of the ‘Armed Forces Covenant’ - a promise from the nation that those who serve or have served, and their families, are treated fairly took place on the stage with Brigadier Jock Fraser and Brigadier Richard Carter joining the Air Vice-Marshal and Marcia. Courting support for his ‘Win Sabapathy Foundation for Kidney Research’ former Lord-Lieutenant of the West Midlands, Paul Sabapathy CVO CBE (the first nonwhite Lord-Lieutenant) was another impassioned speaker who took to the stage to mark the achievement of Ms. McLaughlin and The Phoenix Newspaper team, and for the way the newspaper champions diversity and community cohesion like no

l United Nigeria Welfare Organisation and Mr Emmanuel Nammah Special Assistant to the High Commissioner

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- 8TH ANNIVERSARY FEATURE SPONSORED BY MCDONALD’S

The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2018 - Page 21

l Deputy High Commissioner for Jamaica, Mrs. Angella Rose-Howell l The Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Councillor Yvonne Mosquito other media outlet. He also took the opportunity to highlight his journey from humble beginnings in Chennai, in India, to Chief Executive of North Birmingham Community NHS Trust, Pro-Chancellor and Chair of the Board of Governors at Birmingham City University, and on the boards of both Black Country and Birmingham Heartlands Development Corporations. He went on to be appointed the lofted position of Lord-Lieutenant of the West Midlands from 2007 to 2015. With performances on the night by headline act Camara Fearon, The Phoenix’s own Daniel Riley, and Street Cred Magazine Founder/Editor and songwriter Mark Dwayne, and David Largie, fantastically complementing Japanese saxophone sensation Megumi Mesaku, aka ‘Miss Megoo,’ and her night-long energy and original reggae-jazzed fusion this was, for sure, a night to remember. With a blessing by GNNSJ’s Bhai Sahib Bhai Dr Mohinder Singh OBE KSG, Awards proceedings would commence. This wasn’t the only blessing on the night Marcia, who was describe as the ‘21st Century PanAfrican ‘Change Agent’ received a special head wrap placed on her by Their Royal Highnesses - HRH Princess Moradeun AdedoyinSolarin, direct descendant of The Royal House of Oba Adedoyin Akarigbo Anoko II, Monarch & Paramount Ruler of Sagamu Remo

Kingdom and HRH Princess Toyin Onagoruwa of The Royal House of Oba Philip Onagoruwa Elesi II, Monarch & Paramount Ruler of Odogbolu Kingdom. It proved a tearful and fulfilling moment for all concerned. It was great to see the diversity in the room as businesses from all sectors came together, championing their diversity as a positive, especially with the Commonwealth games in Birmingham 2022, diversity needs to be at the forefront of the city. A very special recognition must be made to Bhai Sahib Bhai Dr Mohinder Singh, a selfless individual that has made a mark in the city by connecting all faith leaders, providing one unified voice of peace. Then, following the loyal toast, the Awards began. International Reggae star, Apache Indian – an Awards recipient on the night – summed up The Phoenix Newspaper 8th Anniversary Gala Dinner & Awards: “This Awards Show deserves an award.” A lasting gambit that was shared by all. With production led by the experienced, and well-respected Jahmi Williams, and afterparty music supplied by Wassifa Showcase, it was a night of shared memories - for all. As everyone came down from the high of the night, Marcia reminded all in attendance that it will be back again next year with a Masquerade Ball.

- Minister for Welfare & Community Affairs and Mr Folowosele - Senior

l Andy Street CBE, Mayor of the West Midlands

l Derek Herbert as Winston Churchill

l Anita Bhalla OBE, Chair of Performances Birmingham Ltd

l Lord-Lieutenant of the West Midlands, John Crabtree OBE

Page 22 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2018

- 8TH ANNIVERSARY FEATURE SPONSORED BY MCDONALDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

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l Community Champion Award 2018 - Maz Iqbal

Editors Cho

Sponsored by Crownswa l Big Daddy Diaspora Award 2018 - Ben Cunningham

l Leading Light Award 2018 - Michelle Ugwueze

l Emissary of Peace Award 2018 - Jamila Usman

l Woman of Excellence Award 2018 - Dr Saroj Duggal, Managing Director, Crownsway Insurance Brokers Ltd

l Man of Excellence Award 2018 - Barry Tomes

l Heart of the Community Award 2018 - Shirley Finch

l Inspiring Minds Award 2018 - Georgina M

l Legend Award 2018 - Mark Walters

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The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2018 - Page 23

l Commonwealth Connection Award 2018 - His Excellency, The Nigeria High Commissioner to the UK, Justice George Oguntade (Jsc) Rtd CON CFR

oice Awards

ay Insurance Brokers Ltd l Literary Award 2018 - Adedamola Aminu

Mendez

l Shopkeeper of the Year Award 2018 - Saleh & Sons

l Social Inclusion Award 2018 - Cllr Paulette Hamilton

l Connecting Communities Award 2018 - Ammo Talwar

l Visionary Award 2018 - Bobby Ayyub Syed

l Youth Inspiration Award 2018 - Apache Indian

Page 24 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2018

- 8TH ANNIVERSARY FEATURE SPONSORED BY MCDONALD’S

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Celebrating Succ Phoenix Newspap

l Windrush Award 2018 - Tasty Pastry - Sponsored By Birmingham City Council

l Charity of the Year Award 2018 - Birmingham Childrens Hospital - Sponsored By West Midlands Police

l Championing Diversity Award 2018 British Army - Sponsored By Birmingham City University

l Veteran Award 2018 - Trevor Gatecrash Sponsored By Victoria Mutual Building Society

l Community Engagement Award 2018 - Birmingham Hippodrome - Sponsored By Tasty Pastry

l Educational Excellence Award 2018 - Birmingham City University - Sponsored By WMRFCA

l International Excellence Award 2018 - Sir Lenny Henry CBE - Sponsored By BCA & GBCCC

l Leadership and Empowerment Award 2018 - Desiree’s Studio - Sponsored By K.G. Miles Opticians

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cess Through The per Awards 2018

The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2018 - Page 25

l Best Eatery Award 2018 - Funky Bear - Sponsored by Tropical Sun

l Street Cred Next Generation Award 2018 - T Roadz - Sponsored By Street Cred Magazine

l Sporting Hero Award 2018- Rushian Hepburn-Murphy

l Business of the Year Award 2018 - U Juice - Sponsored By The Caribbean Tourism Organisation

l Entrepreneur of the Year Award 2018 Tru Powell - Sponsored By Love Your Postcode

l People’s Choice Award 2018 - Ryan Swain - Sponsored by Town Hall / Symphony Hall

l Faith Connection Award 2018 - New Testament Church of God Handsworth

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- 8TH ANNIVERSARY FEATURE SPONSORED BY MCDONALD’S

www.streetcredmagazine.com www.streetcredmagazine.com

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The Pan-African Royals, Their Royal Highnesses HRH Princess Moradeun were invited as Special Royal Guests. At the end of the night, the Royals her the Honour of “21st Century Pan-African Change Agent” follow

l The Phoenix Newspaper Lifetime Achievement Award 2018 - Paul Sabapathy CVO CBE

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n Adedoyin-Solarin & HRH Princess Toyin Onagoruwa s surprised Ms Marcia McLaughlin by bestowing upon wed by the Traditional Headwrapping Ceremony!

The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2018 - Page 27

l Air Vice Marshal Mozumder with Marcia McLaughlin, Editor In Chief of The Phoenix and Jamila Usman, Director of Marketing, Phoenix Nigeria

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The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2018 - Page 29

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Daring to Dream

- 8TH ANNIVERSARY FEATURE SPONSORED BY MCDONALD’S

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A Tribute to my Sister, Marcia By Maxine McLaughlin

Like the legend of the Phoenix Who found the strength to rise from the ashes A woman of imagination and creativity A visionary who like the Reverend Martin Luther King had a dream That’s my sister Marcia It’s taken faith and great courage for this firstborn from Clarendon, Jamaica To stand strong in the face of adversity and crushing odds; I remember the first play written by a young Marcia titled The Devil’s Bubble Trap, I remember the invitation to teenage Marcia from leading broadcaster Tom Coyne to visit the BBC Studios at Pebble Mill, Edgbaston Her destiny was written back then…. As I made my way to Hall 4 of the ICC I felt immense pride Witnessed the marching band that heralded the evening’s events I looked out at the sea of faces, gathered together by a single individual And thought to myself “Look at what my sister has done” A touch of class was there for all

to see As only Marcia could do Performances from lovely Camara Fearon, the exceptional Megumi Mesaku, among others The special acknowledgement of our Armed Forces A history of the Windrush generation The contribution of Sir Winston Churchill’s impersonator, speaking words of wisdom Eloquent speeches by the leading movers and shakers Intertwined with a prestigious awards ceremony All from the heart of Marcia I write these words to say how proud I am of you, Marcia I salute you for sheer determination and hard work For realising your dreams and making them happen To my brave, beautiful sister, one of a kind You are blessed and loved - SALUTE! “Victory at all costs, Victory in spite of all terror, Victory, however long and hard the hard may be; For without Victory there is no survival”. Sir Winston Churchill

Thank You!

The Phoenix Newspaper would like to thank all of our sponsors for their unwavering help and support in producing this years event and recognising the true meaning of diversity. Special thanks must go to the West Midlands Reserve Forces and Cadets Association for agreeing to work in association with us, in demonstrating the importance of our Armed Forces. The signing of the Armed Forces Covenant strengthened the bonds between the Armed Forces and The Phoenix Newspaper. Thanks to Birmingham City Council, The Caribbean Tourism Organisation, Street Cred Magazine, Tropical Sun,Victoria Mutual Building Society, Love Your Postcode, K.G. Miles Opticians, Birmingham Commonwealth Association and Greater Birmingham Commonwealth Chamber of Commerce, West Midlands Police, Birmingham City University, Town Hall / Symphony Hall, Tasty Pastry McDonald’s, Grace Foods UK and Crownsway Insurance Brokers, and especially to Paul Ramsey for his continued support. Thank you also to all our speakers, especially Keynote Speaker Andy Street CBE, Mayor of the West Midlands, Deputy High Commissioner for Jamaica Mrs. Angella Rose-Howell, Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Cllr Yvonne Mosquito and Johnson JohnRose who flew in all the way from Barbados. We’d also like to thank Bhai Sahib Bhai Dr Mohinder Singh for his blessings, and also the performers including Camara Fearon, Megumi Mesaku, David Largie, Mark Dwayne and Daniel Riley. Photography by Jas Sansi and Elijah Thompson. We’re looking forward to next year, with great anticipation as we let our hair down at our Masquerade Ball. For sponsorship opportunities, please contact galadinnerandawards@thephoenixnewspaper.com or call us on 0121 339 5885.

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BIG SCREEN

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Joy

With her powerful sophomore feature, Austrian-Iranian filmmaker Sudabeh Mortezai doesn’t so much present a view of the modern sex slave trade as fully immerse the viewer in the bitter experiences of two Nigerian women forced into European prostitution. Centred around two exceptional performances, and taking an intimate, documentary-like approach to the drama, ‘Joy’ effectively explores the devastating traps of abuse and extortion without ever becoming exploitative itself. ‘Joy’ is likely to achieve massive

Arendelle greets audiences with Anna, Elsa and hilarious snowman Olaf from Disney’s Frozen, where they learn that true love is the greatest power of all. Nothing is out of reach for Rapunzel as her friends help light the way. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs make their own magic and reveal we can do

ANYTHING with our friends in tow. Buzz and Woody will have you jumping out of your seat in a foot-stomping throwdown; Simba, Timon and Pumbaa prowl the Pridelands; Jasmine, Aladdin and Genie show friendship is fearless; and your favourite Disney Princesses stay strong and journey

interest; particularly from those events focused on women’s issues or world cinema. Its difficult themes may prove something of a challenge for distributors and viewers alike, but audiences with a taste for expertlymade social dramas should respond to positive reviews. The painful irony of the film’s title intensifies with each passing frame, as Precious and Joy find themselves trapped in a situation from which there’s little chance of escape. Not only must they make enough money to send back home, but they are also in debt to Madame (Angela Ekeleme Pius) and must pay back every penny with interest before they receive the forged papers which will allow them to settle in Europe. The violent power wielded by the

acerbic Madame — and her two male colleagues — is shown in a harrowing but well-handled early scene involving the punishment of a smart-mouthed Precious. Despite everything, Joy determinedly clings to an ember of hope. We see her visiting her young daughter, working hard to pay off her debts and make a life for them both. In taking Precious under her wing, there is a flicker of compassion — “Don’t look at the faces, look at the money,” she advises — but, ultimately, it’s all about individual survival; if Precious doesn’t bring in enough cash, then Joy will have to pay her way. Yet, as cinematographer Klemens Hufnagl (who also helmed Mortezai’s 2014 debut ‘Macondo’) stays tight on Joy’s face at key moments, the flicker of emotions speak volumes about her inner turmoil.

l Sudabeh Mortezai

on. Plus, if you arrive early, you can learn the Mouse Bounce Dance at the Fit to Dance preshow, free for everyone! Disney on Ice is truly and unforgettable night for the whole family, so make sure you don’t miss out on the Wonderful World of Disney On Ice!

FROM BRITAIN’S GOT TALENT

0844 338 5000 birminghamhippodrome.com Calls cost 4.5p per min. plus your phone company’s access charge.

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Fantastic Beasts - The Crimes of Grindelwald

n an effort to thwart Gellert Grindelwald’s plans of raising pure-blood wizards to rule over all non-magical beings, Albus Dumbledore enlists his former student Newt Scamander, who agrees to help, unaware of the dangers that lie ahead. Lines are drawn as love and loyalty are tested, even among the closest of friends and family, in an increasingly divided wizarding world. Picking up just a few months after the events of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, we are reintroduced to Johnny Depp’s Gellert Grindelwald, who has remained in custody in America since being captured at the end of the first movie. The opening scene is a suitably exciting one, as Grindelwald executes a daring escape during a transfer from America to England, where he is set to be put on trial for his crimes. The sight of a horse-driven carriage hurtling through the night sky during a storm is an impressive one and results in some exciting visuals in an opening sequence that perfectly sets the tone for the rest of the movie. However, it also begs the question — is a horse-drawn carriage honestly the most secure way of transferring the most powerful and evil wizard on the planet? In a world where we’ve seen wizards and witches teleporting at will and a world where Newt Scamander can keep an entire magical safari park in a suitcase, are we really supposed to believe that this was the safest way of

transferring a maximum-security inmate? Come on now. David Yates returns to the directors chair, to the surprise of absolutely nobody. Yates has become the resident Wizarding World director, having overseen every instalment since Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix way back in 2007. The Crimes of Grindelwald marks his sixth foray into the wizarding world and with another three sequels already announced and Yates is onboard for all of them. Luckily, that also means that Yates now knows and understands this world like the back of his hand and knows how to craft an exciting and emotionally engaging adventure and The Crimes of Grindelwald is no different. However, whats most striking about this sequel is just how different it feels in comparison to 2016’s Fantastic Beasts and Where

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to Find Them. While there were dark elements present in Where To Find Them, it was still a relatively light-hearted journey packed with comedy and cute animals, as Newt and Jacob raced across New York in an attempt to recapture the titular fantastic beasts. But The Crimes of Grindelwald takes a sharp turn into ultra-dark territory in a surprisingly ballsy follow-up. It is difficult to imagine younger audiences being as engaged with this movie as it’s a little lighter on action and heavier on exposition, as characters spend a lot of time standing around talking and laying the foundations of a much more intricate story. This is the problem with stories that take place in a completely fabricated world — the writer will constantly introduce new ideas and have to explain what they mean or

how they work within that world so audiences can make sense of them when they come in to play later and while J.K. Rowling struggles to find a balance between too much and not enough, her screenplay is still solid and takes us into some new and exciting territory. The returning cast are all fantastic and not much needs to be said about them; if you liked them in the first movie, you’ll like them here too. Zoe Kravitz is an intriguing addition as Leta Lestrange, the mysterious woman from the photos Newt carries with him and we get to see the intricacies of their relationship unfold and learn what exactly happened between them. It is an engaging side-story with a great payoff. Jude Law steps into the shoes of a young Albus Dumbledore with a flamboyant ease and never gives you a reason to second-guess his casting as such an iconic character.

review His arc in this movie is a strange one, as we see him enlist the help of Newt to embark on a life or death mission and you are left wondering “why the hell isn’t he helping?”. In fact, Newt himself asks the question and Dumbledore’s reply is simply “I can’t move against Grindelwald” which will leave you rolling your eyes as it seems like a lazy copout on Rowling’s part, but as the film progresses and the plot thickens, you begin to understand the true nature of whats at play and it is actually pretty awesome. Then, of course, you have Johnny Depp as the big bad Gellert Grindelwald. Depp has built a career on being that weird and quirky actor who always takes on the strangest roles and I’ll be the first to admit that I am not the biggest fan of his style of acting. However, I was surprised to find a much more subdued Johnny Depp here, who dials back the weirdness for something far more subtle and unsettling. There are two ways to identify a good villain — either they are so unfathomably evil that you’re left in a state of utter shock or they are

wORDS by antony brown

logical and methodical and actually put forward a solid and sincere argument for how they are acting. Grindelwald is the latter and while he is very clearly the villain of the story, you may find yourself agreeing with more than a few of his points. While The Crimes of Grindelwald may be a far-cry from the better instalments in the ever-expanding “Wizarding World” it is also the necessary progression of a story that has suddenly become far more deep and rich than I think any of us expected. It suffers from some pacing issues and excessive exposition, as J.K. Rowling attempts to build upon, break down and rearrange this magical world she created over twenty years ago and even though the resulting movie is a little rough around the edges, there are also some great developments and shocking revelations in a story that explores some surprisingly dark territory while paving the way for a third instalment that is sure to be a much bigger and more exciting entry in the ongoing Fantastic Beasts saga.

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BIG SCREEN

Christmas Classics Returning to Cineworld

hristmas movies – you either love them or you hate them. It is a genre unto itself and it is packed to the rafters with a wide variety of movies ranging from brilliant to moderately entertaining – but rarely bad. Even the worst Christmas movies tend to be at least cute and charming, even if everything else is pretty dire. However, there are certain movies that blur the lines between being a good Christmas movie and straight-up being a good movie, period – and this

month, Cineworld are bringing some of those classics back to the big screen. On December 5th, The Wet Bandits return to burglarise the screen in Chris Columbus’ Home Alone. On December 20th, a 4K restoration of Frank Capra’s It’s a Wonderful Life is set to tug at heartstrings across the UK and on December 22nd, scream Yippee-Ki-Yay as John McClane returns to kickass in John McTiernan’s Die Hard. Don’t fight it, guys – it’s a Christmas movie and the sooner you accept it, the sooner we can all move on with our lives.

DECEmber

Mission: Impossible – Fallout (03/12/18)

Ethan Hunt and his IMF team, along with some familiar allies, race against time after a mission gone wrong.

Ant-Man and The Wasp (03/12/18)

As Scott Lang balances life as a Super Hero and a father, Hope van Dyne and Dr. Hank Pym present an urgent new mission that finds the Ant-Man fighting

Releases

alongside The Wasp to uncover secrets from their past.

friend Winnie-thePooh, who helps him to rediscover the joys of life.

A working-class family man, Christopher Robin, encounters his childhood

After escaping an attack by what he claims was a 70-foot shark, Jonas Taylor must confront his

Christopher Robin (10/12/18)

The Meg (10/12/18)

fears to save those trapped in a sunken submersible.

Yardie (26/12/18)

A young Jamaican man named D embarks on a life of crime after the murder of his older brother.

aif Ali Khan has returned to screens through the first Hindi Netflix Original drama; Sacred Games - a series based on the criticallyacclaimed best-selling novel of the same name by author Vikram Chandra. Launches globally on Netflix in July, the series focuses on Sartaj Singh (Saif Ali Khan), a seasoned and cynical Bombay police officer, summoned by an anonymous tip one morning, a voice which promises him an opportunity to capture the powerful Ganesh Gaitonde (Nawazuddin Siddiqui), criminal overlord of the G-Company. As the stakes mount and Sartaj seeks knowledge of his

‘Sacred Games’ a First for Netflix prey, it becomes clear that the game the two players thought they were engaged in is in fact part of a much larger scenario, one that expands beyond their city.

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DECEMBER

Asha Bhosle to come to Birmingham

cinema releases

Mary Poppins Returns (21/12/18)

Decades after her original visit, the magical nanny returns to help the Banks siblings and Michael’s children through a difficult time in their lives.

The Old Man and the Gun (07/12/18)

70-year-old Forrest Tucker escapes from San Quentin prison and embarks on a string of heists that confounds authorities and enchants the public - based on a true story.

White Boy Rick (07/12/18)

Teenager Richard Wershe Jr. becomes an undercover informant for the FBI during the 1980s and is ultimately arrested for drug-trafficking and sentenced to life in prison – based on a true story.

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (12/12/18)

Spider-Man crosses parallel dimensions and teams up with the Spider-Men of those dimensions to stop a threat to all reality.

Aquaman (14/12/18)

Arthur Curry learns that he is the heir to the underwater kingdom of Atlantis, and must step forward to lead his people and be a hero to the world.

Bumblebee (26/12/18)

In 1987, Bumblebee finds refuge in a junkyard in a small Californian beach town. Charlie, on the cusp of turning 18 and trying to find her place in the world, discovers Bumblebee, battle-scarred and broken from a war raging on his home planet and together, they must protect each other from a shady government agency known as Sector 7

Legendary Indian movie playback singer Asha Bhosle is returning to the UK for one last time, and as part of her tour she will be performing at Genting Arena (soon to be renamed Resorts World Arena) on 02 March 2019. Bhosle has lent her voice to many famous Bollywood movies including Gumrah, Waqt, Aadmi aur Insaan, Hamraaz and Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge. Her biggest movie hit songs include Parde Me Rehne Do, Chura Liya Hai, Ude Jab-Jab Zulfein Teri and Zara Sa Jhoom Lu Mein. Today, Asha Bhosle holds the Guinness World Record for the most recorded songs by an artist. This tour is dedicated to Bollywood’s Greatest Music Director and her late Husband RD Burman. She will be accompanied with most versatile singer Sudesh Bhosle. Asha Bhosle will come to the Genting Arena on 2nd March 201

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MOTORS

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Suzuki Graduation For Apprentices Suzuki GB hosted the annual graduation ceremony for its Advanced Apprenticeship Programme at Rockingham Motor Speedway earlier this month. Out of the 24 trainee technicians from Suzuki’s automobile, motorcycle and ATV divisions who graduated this year, a total of 18 collected their certificates from Suzuki GB’s managing director, Nobuo Suyama, and director of aftersales, Denis Houston. Throughout the practical, hands-on learning initiative, participants from across the country – who this year spanned Devon

‘Make in India’ Harness India’s Potential

ndian Consul General Aman Puri, Ms. Kiran Khatri, Second Secretary (Economic and Public Diplomacy), High Commission of India, London, Dr. Param Shah, Director, Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry – UK (FICCI-UK), Jaguar Land Rover CEO, Professor Dr Ralf Speth, Amo Kalar, Deputy Trade and Investment Commissioner, British High Commission in New Delhi and Coventry and Warwickshire Chair Jonathan Browning were just some of the esteemed guest speakers as Warwick Manufacturing Group (WMG) saw titans of industry highlight the huge potential for British businesses to tap into the ever growing Indian market. The conference saw the soft opening of the National Automotive Innovation Centre, a GBP 150 million facility, the largest single automotive facility in Europe, now renamed as Lord Bhattacharya Building in honour of the Founder and Chair of WMG who has made extraordinary contributions to the regeneration of British industry over the last four decades. He was also instrumental in

the acquisition of JLR by Tata Motors, in addition to supporting several well-known Indian automotive companies in their R & D strategies. Speaking at the conference Professor Lord Kumar Bhattacharyya KT CBE FREng FRS Regius Professor of Manufacturing stated that Tata Motors and JLR specialists are working together with academics and experts from WMG to develop the cars of the future, and the soon to be opened centre will become an innovation hub, setting a new benchmark for the world. To which JLR’s Prof. Dr Speth, stated; “Ten years ago, Ratan Tata had the vision to bring Jaguar Land Rover into the Tata family. “Since then, JLR has grown to become a global player in the luxury, premium and performance marketplace, an exemplar of British invention and engineering excellence. “For many years at the helm of Tata Group and now as Chairman Emeritus, Ratan Tata has encouraged group companies like JLR to continuously rethink about how we do business, how we innovate.” He went on to say: “Collaborations are vital – for

no company alone can deliver Destination Zero. This is why JLR, Tata and WMG have together now invested £ 150 million in the largest single automotive technology facility in Europe, now officially named as Lord Bhattacharya building. “India is well positioned to respond to the rapid pace of change because it has innovation embedded into the fabric of its society. The opportunity for today and tomorrow is to harness India’s rich expertise and skill in a new mobility ecosystem. Not just to Make IN India, but to Make ‘WITH’ India and to Make ‘FOR’ India. Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi said ‘Make in India’ is a lion’s step. From the home of the British Jaguar, we encourage and support you in taking this Indian ‘Lion’s step’.” C.G. Puri stated that both the UK and Indian Governments are collaborating to support businesses, and strengthen the two-way ‘Trade & Investment’ relationship between the two countries; stating that India will become the fourth largest automotive producer globally by 2020 after China, US and Japan.

in the south, to Dumfries in the north – are rewarded with mentoring and fulltime employment at a Suzuki dealership that has also committed to paying for their apprentice’s training and qualifications. Amongst many other benefits, individuals equally receive one week’s tuition every two months at the £1.5 million state-ofthe-art Bosch-run training centre training facility in Doncaster as well as a fully structured career path. All of Suzuki’s motorcycle apprentices follow a three-year technical apprenticeship and leave with a level three advanced apprenticeship – equivalent to an A-Level.

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W WITH RHEA DEHANEY #Thisworldneedsyou

Who are you, and what does your work in the community entail?

I’m Julian and i’m one half of Found UK. Found UK is an outreach organisation based in Hockley, Birmingham. It’s aim is to encourage, enable and equip young people to be the best versions of themselves. As a Christian company we believe that showing the love of Christ in a practical sense is what’s most important. Obviously in church sometimes we get caught up in just sticking to the four walls and we decided that it’s our duty as christians to really show love, in a practical sense. To actually help and establish relationships with those in the community. So far we’ve had community forums such as child sexual exploitation, mental health, working with police and working with the educational system. We’ve had a forum for that with parents, youth workers and guardians. We have put on summer schemes, we’ve put on park initiatives and there’s so much more to come from us.

How exactly did you come up with this vision and what can we look forward to in the future for Found UK?

The vision came from 2 different perspectives, for Tia she was really provoked by someone she went to a youth club with when she was younger, was fatally shot and killed. As Tia is from the Hockley area and she sees an area that needs help, and has potential but not enough opportunity to really be the arms and feet of Christ and create a place for opportunity to be birthed. For myself I have always had a longing to help inner city youths, because I feel like Tia. There is

a lot of potential here but it’s not realised because of all the external factors that come in. We want to be able to stir some of these young people down the correct path and not necessarily tell them to go to university, but tell them to be the best version of themselves. Creating entrepreneurs and creating creatives in this day and age in the 21st century there is so much opportunity that you can have at the click of your finger.

What would you say the main issues are in Hockley and why is this programme important to the young people that you are trying to help?

In Hockley, we see a lot of issues such as gun and gang crime, criminal behaviour, CSC, poverty, deprivation, low educational standards. One thing that we recognised and really see as a massive issue is family. We see that break down of the family unit, is something that has tremendous effects on the community. When there is lack of fathers and a stable family unit, it can cause dramatic effects in a child’s life. We really want to be able to encourage and build families back, providing great ro - models and strong male ro models and strong female role - models for young people who may not have any. Re - affirming and re - stabilizing the standard all these factors cater to the trajectory of life that a lot of young people end up having. But it has to start-up, there’s so much potential. Myles Munroe says ‘There’s no where in the world that has the greatest potential than the graveyard’ and we do not want to see anymore young people dying early, and not fulfilling the best versions of themselves.

Through these opportunities, and creating these safe spaces how do you think this will help to improve the lives of young people?

We want to provide safe spaces that enable them to exercise their brain and mind and give them the opportunity to try new things. Even in the summer scheme that we just did, first, we made it really affordable and made sure the kids had food and we gave them the opportunity to try different things, dance, music, drama, poetry public speaking, fashion workshops and sports. We try to ignite the creative and ignite the person inside where they may not get the opportunity to test out some of these skills in schools, they can test it out here. A lot of young people suffer with confidence issues and we found that a lot of people who did the public speaking workshop the workshop, felt a lot more confident speaking in front of crowds. I think it’s important that we do these things, the things that aren’t necessarily the norm. To draw out the parts of young people who are left neglected. It’s important that we provide the safe space, when we can and how we can. Somewhere where you can come and relax, somewhere where you can do your homework, somewhere where you can get help, and meet other people. Safe space, opportunity, enable, encourage and equip.

I can’t wait to to see what’s in store for Found UK! Where can those who want to get involved contact you?

We are accessible via our email which is projectfound29@gmail.com and follow us on Facebook

elcome to another edition of Teen flair where I give you advice highlight realer people and much more! This month I want to introduce you to a remarkable man of God Julian who has been doing such an amazing job with the youth in a community in Birmingham. I applaud Julian and Tia and the team for Found UK for the hard work they have been putting in to help change young people’s life! For anyone who is seriously interested in making a difference in a person’s life, or want to know how to actively get involved in making a difference, keep reading on as Julian gives me a deeper insight into Found UK and how many lives has been affected so far! We are getting closer and closer to the Christmas and the year has gone so fast! What have you achieved this year? And what are you looking forward to next year? I’m currently in my first year in University of West London,

and Instagram and uk.found, everything we do is up, you can message us you can get in touch with us, we are always looking for people to help! We want people that have the same drive, the same understanding, the same mindset to really help these young people selflessly. Not for any gain of yourself but to selflessly help young people develop and become better, helping families, helping mothers and helping fathers and grandmothers in the right way.

Any advice/ encouragement for those who might want to start a programme in there area?

My advice personally to anyone that is looking to do something

studying broadcast and digital journalism and it has been a whirlwind of excitement and emotions! In London I recently partook in the protest, which aims where to get justice for Asia Bibi. “Ms Bibi was held for eight years under a death sentence for supposed blasphemy after she drank from the same well as Muslim co-workers, before her conviction was reversed by the Pakistan Supreme Court.” Asia Bibi is a young christian women, who for 8 years and has been going through an unjust system which disenabled her from seeing her family, facing harassment from inmates and only having 1 hour daylight, every 3 months. It has been confirmed that the Pakistani Government is protecting her in an undisclosed location and that her whereabouts are being kept secret. Due to the serious death threats to her and family, Asia Bibi had to go into hiding. There are many protest groups and churches and even non -

very similar, is believe in what letting the young people know that your doing. the world needs them. There are serious hard times, We want young people to times where you might put on an understand and know that they initiative and no one turns up but are important and valuable, and it’s about being consistent. anyone that is interested in doing And about having perseverance this, make sure young people are and believe in what you’ve been your passion, if they’re not your given, believe in the vision you passion, it won’t last. have, believe in the fact that i’m going to help somebody. If you help 1 young person, it’s 1 more young person that’s been helped and you help to stir a young person down the right road, and think about the snowball effect that can have in there friendship circles and extended Check out my first Youtube video friendship circles. ‘Rhea Dehaney’ I hope you are It all begins with one. And understanding that blessed :)

KEEP IN TOUCH As we are all aware there is power in social media, I will be using these networking sites, to promote this newspaper page, and #TEAMFLAIR which will not only advertise, but will promote

christians still praying on Asia Bibi’s behalf in hope that she will be able to leave the country with her family, to be held in safer place. I hope that me sharing this story, encourages you to always speak up in what you believe in, and never feel ashamed to express your faith and who you are!

what to look forward to in the newspaper. I’m not only hoping to create just another column, but a movement, for young people of all races.

To Advertise on my page, or to send me news, information and more, contact me at rhea.dehaney@thephoenixnewspaper.com

Scripture of the month

@PhoenixNewsUK

Trevor McNaughton

orn in Hanover, the Jamaican reggae singer, along with Brent Dowe and Trevor Brevett. founded The Melodians, in Kingston one of the most successful acts of the 1966-68 rocksteady era, recording mainly for producer Duke Reid. Winston Dias and Taurus Alphonso joined the band in the

last four years, and along with McNaughton performed at events in South Florida, the United Kingdom and Spain. Many of their songs, including ‘Little Nut Tree’ and ‘By The Rivers of Babylon,’ are reggae classics. Dying as a result of respiratory failure, he was 77.

Stan Lee

comic book writer, editor, and publisher from the 1940s to the 2010s, the New Yorker was Marvel Comics' primary creative leader for two decades, leading its expansion from a small division of a publishing house to a multimedia corporation that dominated the comics industry. Co-creator of numerous popular

fictional characters, including superheroes Spider-Man, the X-Men, Black Panther, Iron Man, Thor, the Hulk, Fantastic Four, Daredevil, Doctor Strange, Scarlet Witch and Ant-Man, he challenged the restrictions of the Comics Code Authority, indirectly leading to changes in its policies. He died in Cedars-Sinai Medical Centre, Los Angeles, aged 95.

Richard Baker

he London-born broadcaster studied at Cambridge University served on a minesweeper with the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve during WW2, attached to the supply convoys to Russia before going on to introducing the first BBC TV news bulletin broadcast in 1954. Presenting BBC TV news bulletins until 1982, he also fronted the Last Night of the Proms and present on Radio 2, 3 and 4. He also voiced the animated

The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2018 - Page 37

- OBITUARIES & NOTICE BOARD -

Ajuma Ameh-Otache children's series ‘Mary, Mungo and Midge,’ and made guest appearances on Monty Python's Flying Circus. He was 93.

Notice Board

ne of Nigeria's most successful women internationals, she played in the Olympic Games in Athens, and also won the African Women's Cup of Nations – both in 2004. She also played for the Super Falcons at the 2003 All Africa Games in Abuja.

The former Pelican Stars player was in charge of Goodland Rangers Football Club of Lagos and made headlines as a successful female coach in charge of a male side. Survived her husband Peter Otache and three children, there was originally no details for her cause of death. She was 33.

were conducted in Panama and the Persian Gulf; the Berlin Wall fell in 1989, and the Soviet Union dissolved two years later. After his son, George W.'s, victory in the 2000 presidential election, they became the second father–son pair to serve as president, following John Adams and John Quincy Adams - with second son, Jeb, serving as the 43rd Governor of Florida before soughing the Republican presidential nomination in 2016. He was 94.

Lee Min-Hye

he South Korean professional racing cyclist represented her country at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing alongside great success in road racing at the 2010 Asian Games Individual Time Trial event by winning the gold medal in the 35.6 km course in the time of 49 minutes and 38.35 seconds. She also competed at the 2012 Summer Olympics, in the women's omnium, finishing in 15th place. Dying of leukemia, she was 33.

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Page 38 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2018

- REMEMBRANCE FEATURE -

l Navy, Army and RAF representatives with Lord Mayor of Birmingham Yvonne Mosquito

l The procession to the service

l Crowds lined Colmore Row and all of Cathedral Square

l Chaplain Rev Msg Canon Robert Corrigan

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Lest We Forge

l Veterans lined Colmore Row

Birmingham Falls Silent As The Second City Remembers the Fallen

l Wreaths laid at the Cenotaph

l Cadets and serving personell o

@PhoenixNewsUK

- REMEMBRANCE FEATURE -

The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2018 - Page 39

l The Lord Mayor laying a wreath at the Cenotaph

et B

irmingham fell silent on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month, as the city remembered the fallen 100 years after the World War I ended. A ‘Day of National Remembrance Service,’ attended by military veterans and representatives of the region’s armed forces, took place with a parade which included exservice personnel, regular, reserve and cadet units from the Armed

of the Armed Forces processed past

Forces who, with representatives of other local uniformed organisations, with the city’s Lord Mayor, Councillor Yvonne Mosquito, and Chaplain Rev Msg Canon Robert Corrigan, along with senior representatives from the Army, Royal Air Force and Royal Navy walking arm-in-arm from the Council House to Colmore Row for the service which began at 10.55am. The Lord Mayor, who unveiled a commemorative stone outside the

l The Cenotaph flanked by two soldiers Hall of Memory before the service, said: “This year, as we mark the centenary of the First World War ending, we honour our promise never to forget all those who sacrificed so much. While we mark this poignant anniversary, we take the opportunity to remember all men and women who died while serving their country, at war and in peacetime.”

l Veterans of all ages turned out to pay their respects

Page 40 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2018

thephoenixnewspaper.com

- AZUZA STREET -

Poem by The Lord Mayor For the navy, army, royal air force officers here, the veterans, their families and the families of veterans gone, I want to say;

An Indescribable Love I hope in the indescribable, unimaginable love, that exists for you, it diminishes, into insignificance, when compared to any human love.

Creating a Movement for a Peaceful World T he Parliament of the World’s Religions (PWR) – the single largest interfaith gathering in the world – held its seven-day programme in Toronto, drawing an enthusiastic audience interested in learning more about interreligious harmony. It was created to cultivate harmony among the world’s religious and spiritual communities and foster their engagement with the world and its guiding institutions to achieve a just, peaceful and sustainable world. The themes for this year being: The Promise of Inclusion, the ‘Power of Love: Pursuing Global Understanding, Reconciliation and Change. Bhai Sahib Bhai Mohinder Singh OBE KSG, the Coconvenor and Co-chair of the

Charter for Forgiveness and Reconciliation addressed the opening, reflecting: “Humanity’s journey with the interfaith movement has been long and arduous. The world is still in agony and the learning continues. Peace eludes us.” He expressed continuing support of his organisation, Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha (UK), for the work of the Parliament and also highlighted a proposal for advancing and accelerating the work of the interfaith movement, to achieve harmony and peace. “Before we seek peace outside,” he said, “we have to generate peace within ourselves. To create and sustain peace, we must reconcile. But to reconcile we must forgive. “This is why in a humble effort we are proposing together, with committed friends, a Charter for

Forgiveness and Reconciliation. The love in our hearts has to be stronger than the disagreements in our minds.” Having heard other faith leaders share their commitments to reconciliation, Bhai Sahib finished his address with a prayer for the days ahead “May the promise of oneness of humanity guide us as this Parliament begins.” The Preamble of the Charter states: “The vision of the Charter for Forgiveness and Reconciliation is that the process of forgiving is vital if healing and reconciliation are to take place, as part of our collective efforts to seek justice, harmony and sustainable peace.” A Seminar on ‘Forgiveness and Reconciliation: Perspectives from the World’s Religions,’ hosted by the Charter project, was attended by 140 participants.

They listened to the highly informative presentations of the world class speakers on the panel. Bhai Sahib Bhai Mohinder Singh (Sikh), Rabbi David Rosen (Jewish), Prof Mohammed AbuNimer (Muslim) and Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati (Hindu) spoke with great passion about forgiveness and reconciliation in the context of their respective faith traditions. The panel was moderated by Dr Josef Boehle, the Director of the Charter for Forgiveness and Reconciliation. With over 6000 participants attending the Parliament, with dozens of high-profile guest speakers and more than 1000 spiritual programs, lectures, and interactive cultural experiences, the event offered an opportunity to advance interreligious dialogue and cooperation, responding to the critical issues of our times.

I trust in the indescribable, unfathomable love, that exists for you, that will heal, more than any medicine, or operation can ever do - when the time comes. This indescribable, incredible love, will cover, any scars, seen and unseen, and make our defenders whole again - when the time comes, I believe in the indescribable, uncontainable love, powerful and all consuming, yet so gentle, we can all feel it, hear whispers, from inside our souls, if we try. There is an indescribable, indefinable, and beautiful love that has inspired us, to be here, laying the wreaths, where we give absolute respect, admiration and love to, the families and friends, of their outstanding beloveds, who have passed on, and to those, who are still here. It transcends, time, space and sky. I know there is an indescribable, inexpressible, love that exists for you, defendes, still alive, within this great City of Birmingham. It will never be extinguished. Know, that, we will always remember, who carry and carried, wounds for us. Know, that, we, know, who lost, for us. So, in all grateful appreciation, we recognise, who, and what, was sacrificed, for us. We, give cannot, give God, enough, thanks them, for their indescribable bravery, and ask, that He gives them, an indescribable peace, Resting in His indescribable, everlasting and infinite love. by Birmingham Lord Mayor Councillor Yvonne Mosquito

#WRAPUPBRUM

oungsters at Wylde Green Primary School brought donations to the school, based in Green Lanes, before lessons started on Thursday 29th November. The school’s council formed entirely with youngster’s aged as young as four have chosen to back Birmingham Cathedral’s coat donation scheme #WrapUpBrum. Children and their families The school’s donations will tip the overall number of items collected for the scheme to a record amount.

Last year, the cathedral received over 3,000 coats. All were given to the homeless community and those in need. On a daily basis donated items are placed on a rail outside the cathedral entrance. #WrapUpBrum will run at Birmingham Cathedral until Friday 21 December. The cathedral team will then be handing coats, scarves, hats and gloves out to the homeless community at the annual Christmas Dinner inside the cathedral on Saturday 22 December.

@PhoenixNewsUK

- PROPERTY -

The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2018 - Page 41

Local authorities splashing out billions on commercial property

Buyers eyeing up Christmas discounts

ears of a Brexittriggered property market crash in the UK lit a fire under Britain's negotiations to leave the European Union with EU regulators concerned that a disorderly Brexit could hit UK property prices and trigger a contagion effect elsewhere. Red flags were raised in Brussels when the Governor of the Bank of England, Mark Carney, said that the Bank had stress-tested UK lenders to ensure they could withstand a fall of up to one-third in property prices. One of the key financial questions facing the UK, now it has voted ‘out’ is what will happen to house prices? - with indication showing that traders believe the UK housing market could be set for a severe slowdown, developers are crashing on the FTSE 100. With widespread predictions during the campaign that the economic shock of Brexit would drive prices lower, the Treasury

predicted a fall of between 10 and 18 per cent in the coming couple of years. Figures suggest stand-off between buyers and sellers may be coming to an end. And, while prices typically edge down ahead of the Christmas period, a higherthan-usual drop is signalled as sellers lower their demands in a bid to lure in cautious buyers amid Brexit uncertainty and wage stagnation. While London prices bear the brunt of Brexit angst, house prices there are set to suffer as the northsouth divide narrows. Homeowners in the capital hoping to sell their property before Christmas are slashing prices, offering a rare opportunity for buyers in the run-up to the festive season while in the North West property prices are predicted to go up by 21.6% over five years, with most of the rest of the country set for double digit growth. The Midlands, driven by

the increasing popularity of Birmingham; Yorkshire and Humberside; Scotland and Wales are expected to have the capacity for mortgage borrowing to increase relative to incomes and so are expected to experience strong double-digit price growth, according to Homes and Property. By contrast, property prices in London and the South East are only expected to increase 4.5% and 9.3%, respectively. Lucian Cook, head of residential research at Savills, said that house prices in these areas were recovering more slowly from the financial crisis than London. "Brexit angst is a major factor for market sentiment right now, particularly in London. But it is the legacy of the global financial crisis - mortgage regulation in particular - combined with gradually rising interest rates

Government-backed plans to raise standards in property agency Housing Minster Heather Wheeler MP has announced plans to help further professionalise the housing sector to ensure home buyers, sellers, tenants, landlords and leaseholders receive the best service possible. RICS will join representatives from the National Landlords Association, Citizens Advice, the Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA Propertymark) and the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA Propertymark), to

ensure the needs of both businesses and consumers are considered. Chaired by Lord Best, the working group will look to consider the entire property agency sector to ensure any new framework, including any professional qualifications requirements, a Code of Practice, and a proposed independent regulator, is consistent across letting, managing and estate agents so tenants, homebuyers and sellers can be confident they are

getting a professional service and are being charged fairly. RICS Director of Regulation, EMEA & working group representative, Luay Al-Khatib said; "Housing is at the top of the nation’s agenda – with standards in the supply and management of homes of serious public concern. For that reason, I am delighted to contribute to this working group, which will inform and shape the Government’s moves to ensure robust consumer protection in the sector."

that will really shape the market over the longer term," he said. Nationwide Building Society say that many homeowners were choosing to stay put, leading to relatively few properties being placed on the market.

Local authorities have spent a huge £4.1bn on commercial property over the past four years and are on track to set a new annual spending record this year, according to exclusive data from Savills. Last year they spent a record high of £1.8bn, a whopping 1,868% up on the £93.8m spent in 2014. As a result, local authorities have seen their share of total investment in the commercial property market grow from 0.2% to 3.4% - sparked by the government’s announcement in December 2015 that local authorities would need to finance their spending entirely from locally raised revenue by 2020. With the supply of central

government funding due to be cut off, councils need to find alternative sources of income to ultimately pay for the services they need to supply to their residents. Mark Garmon-Jones, of Savills Estate Agents, said: “Councils are buying property in their own town centres to kick-start regeneration projects “that the private sector can’t or won’t do,” citing the example of retail-led regeneration schemes. “Interestingly, there hasn’t been a shopping centre bought by a local authority outside its jurisdiction.” He predicts spending in the second half of 2018 will cool and end of year totals will be about the same.

Page 42 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2018

thephoenixnewspaper.com

- HEALTH AND WELLBEING -

Diabetes UK Praises Food Labelling Proposals

ocus F on Social Care

Spare a Thought This Christmas

Petition for prescription exemption for Sickle Cell sufferers

Whilst prescription charges once again rose last April (to £8.60 an item) people living with sickle cell disorder still do not have medical exemption, which means that paying the fees can be difficult and some people may skip doses of medicine. At best, it is, at times, advised, if it is possible, to buy a prescription prepayment certificate, which will save you some money. The Sickle Cell Society is a member of the Prescription Charges Coalition, the campaign for medical exemptions for all people with long-term health conditions. The coalition is currently gathering evidence of the impact of prescription charges. Sickle Cell Anaemia is a genetically inherited haematological condition with patients suffering acute chronic pain affecting the bones & joints caused by vaso-occlusion, ischaemic injury, high risk of infection & stroke. Stress, low temperature & physical activity are a few of the triggers of this condition. Patients struggle to qualify for benefits as the requirements don't seem to cater to disabilities that include intermittent asymptomatic states and they also require lifelong monthly

prescriptions. As many patients are unable to work, this is an extra financial burden that is stressful. If this burden can be lifted, it will contribute somewhat to a slightly better quality of life for people who already suffer so greatly. Morgan Vine of Parkinson’s UK who Co-Chair the Prescription Charges Coalition, a group of nearly 40 organisations campaigning to end prescription charges for people with long-term medical conditions, said: “This is a blow to people with long term conditions, who already have to deal with additional living costs, and rely on regular medication to manage their condition. The outdated and illogical medical exemption list for England is 50 years old. It is unfair that some conditions are exempt from all charges, where others are required to pay for everything. It is the Government’s duty to support everyone with a long term condition to take their medication as prescribed. They must take urgent action to address this unjust situation.” A petition to provide prescription payment exemption for people with Sickle Cell Anaemia is at: https://petition. parliament.uk/petitions/228671.

he Government is looking to introducing mandatory calorie labelling for the ‘out of home’ food sector. If the consultation progresses into legislation, calories would be listed alongside meal descriptions in restaurants, cafes, and online outlets across England. Diabetes UK has been campaigning for clearer food labelling through their ‘Food Up Front’ campaign, and they see this as a promising step in the right direction if the consultation does translate into legislation. Helen Dickens, its Assistant Director of Campaigns & Mobilisation, said: “More than three quarters of the British public have told us that they want

more information about what’s in the food and drink they buy, to help make healthier choices – especially when they’re out and about. “These bold, ambitious proposals from the government are – if put into legislation – essential to making the healthy choice the easy choice for British consumers. “The UK is facing a Type 2 diabetes crisis. With around two thirds of adults in the UK classed as overweight or obese, and therefore at increased risk of Type 2 diabetes and other chronic health conditions, these measures are the next vital step in making this a reality and – potentially – beginning to stem the tide of Type 2 diabetes.”

Fighting-fit MP, Watson, fronting drive to beat diabetes epidemic Labour Deputy Leader Tom Watson recently revealed that he had to lose an incredible seven stone in a year after radically changing his diet to combat Type 2 Diabetes. The MP for West Bromwich East told how he was fighting weight increase for 25 years but, come the time he tipped the scales at 22 stone he finally cleared out his cupboards of his beloved chocolate biscuits and other savouries. Once nicknamed ‘Tommy Two Dinners,’ he is now on a crusade to improve the health of a British public addicted to sugar. Skipping, boxing and cycling his way to losing an incredible seven stone and now one new wardrobe later, he is determined to help other people get fit and live longer. “Nothing beats feeling fit and alive,” he said. “I’ve been battling weight gain for 25 years and have tried every type of diet thinkable - I even tried the cabbage soup

diet. I was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes a few years ago but I was in denial – mainly through fear! But it was when I hit 22 stone last year I knew I had to do something.” The hardest thing was admitting the illness.” But he says, now: "I feel like a cloud has been lifted from my brain, my memory is a lot better and I'm more compassionate." A keen political historian, father of two Watson, 51, noticed how a lot of politicians had died in their fifties. He was there in 1994 the night the then Labour leader, John Smith, died of a heart attack aged just 56. He added: “A lot of men feel guilty and keep it to themselves - they're too embarrassed of their condition. I didn't want to admit it either. “One in ten of my constituents in West Bromwich have Diabetes and so many of our children are obese too.”

his time of year, in the run up to Christmas for many are happy times with everyone looking forward to the festive break and spending time with their loved ones. But for many, Christmas is a very lonely and isolating time, not helped with the colder and darker nights. For far too many families it is a stressful time as parents want to create a bit of Christmas magic for their children but finances are already stretched tight. We can see the challenges with the austerity cuts over recent years with changes to welfare support more and more families are struggling. This is evident on our streets, in our neighbourhoods and our City Centre blighted by the effects of austerity – the numbers of people living in poverty is sadly growing. Foodbanks and rough sleeping are becoming sadly the norm. We are shifting the focus and as providers of health and social care we are looking at what we can do deter ill health and wellbeing outcomes through early intervention and prevention. It is for this reason that this year the Public Health annual report has focused on children and is titled ‘Fulfilling Lives for Under Fives’. It has been well documented that the first five years of a child’s life and pre-birth care are the key foundation years that do influence the outcomes of a child. The underlying theme throughout the report is poverty in its widest context as there are a number of factors to this including reducing homelessness, increasing the number of suitable homes, greater access to education, training and work opportunities. Birmingham has the largest population of under five years olds of any English local authority. As a City we are also the most ethnically and culturally diverse in the UK outside of London. In 2011, 42% of the general population and 60% of children under five years old were from Black, Asian and minority ethnic groups. Health outcomes such as infant mortality, tooth decay, asthma, obesity can vary considerably between ethnic groups. A key objective is getting the fundamentals right and trying to encourage healthier lifestyle

l Cllr Paulette Hamilton choice and ensuring families have access and aware of health and social care services when needed. Work is underway to increase the use of Health Start Vouchers will provide low income families with vouchers for the purchase of milk, fruit and vegetables. We will also be looking at how we can improve the uptake of childhood vaccinations as we in Birmingham we are below national averages. We are focusing much on ensuring economic growth and opportunity is inclusive to all our citizens, and as part of this, the City Council has a social value policy. Through this policy we led the way in terms of the development of the Birmingham Living Wage policy. Another example of this is in Longbridge Section 106 money (funds raised by the City Council through housing developments) was used to fund family nutrition and physical activity. We have been asking providers who procure contracts from the City Council to demonstrate their social value within tenders bids. Through the use of these policies we can shape the way the City Council and other organisations realise and discharge their social responsibilities to benefit our local communities. Our children are our future we need to ensure that we provide the best possible start for them and I hope that Public Health report and its recommendations helps to better shape the opportunities afforded to our future citizens. I would like to wish everyone a wonderful festive season, and a peaceful new year. Enjoy all the fun of the season, but please be careful and I am looking forward to doing this again next year!

@PhoenixNewsUK

- HEALTH AND WELLBEING -

The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2018 - Page 43

Cannabis now to be medically prescribed

On Your Marks, Get Set,

GO!

All the Sport action from Page 46!

One Day Raises £635k for Cure Leukaemia D l Gareth Southgate was one of the many celebrities giving their time for One Day

uring this year’s ‘Blood Cancer Awareness Month,’ Deutsche Bank employees across the UK were invited to donate a day’s salary to its two UK Charities of the Year through the bank’s ‘One Day’ initiative – which proved a huge success with a record £1.27m raised with Cure Leukaemia receiving a staggering £635,000 in total. Over 120 volunteers, beneficiaries and celebrity guests, including England football Manager Gareth Southgate, singer Olly Murs, broadcaster Matt Barbet, ITV News editor Geoff Hill, Aston Villa assistant manager John Terry, former England Rugby Union captain Will Carling, England Under-21 football manager Aidy Boothroyd, master magician Dynamo, newsreader & journalist

Sameena Ali Khan, radio presenters Ed James and Gemma Hill and Olympic medallist Katharine Merry visited Deutsche Bank’s offices in Birmingham and London to encourage staff to donate on One Day. Cure Leukaemia’s Chief Executive James McLaughlin said: “One Day was an extraordinary initiative and we are overwhelmed by the generous and selfless support of Deutsche Bank’s staff. We always knew that this partnership would be transformational and clearly emphasises the positive impact Deutsche Bank is having in the global fight against blood cancer. This single day of fundraising is £100,000 more than Cure Leukaemia raised in an entire year back in 2012 which highlights how far this charity has come in the last six years.”

The Home Office has confirmed that, from November, specialist clinicians in the UK are able to prescribe cannabis-derived medicinal products for the first time after a change in the law, which will not limit the types of conditions that can be considered for treatment. Doctors will no longer need to seek approval from an expert panel in order for patients to access the medicines. Home Secretary, Sajid Javid, declared: “Having been moved by heart-breaking cases involving sick children, it was important that we took swift action to help those who can benefit from medicinal cannabis. We have now delivered on our promise and specialist doctors will have the option to prescribe these products where there is a real need.” He was speaking after using special power to issue licence for 12-year-old Billy Caldwell to be allowed receive medicinal cannabis for his epilepsy treatment. Ash Soni, president of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society, added: “This will be welcomed by many patients with a range of serious health conditions. The prospect of a future where safe and effective licensed cannabis-based medicines can be prescribed to help relieve suffering is genuinely exciting.” NHS England, the British Paediatric Neurology Association and the Royal College of Physicians will provide clinical advice to doctors ahead of the law change.

Helping to make sure vulnerable children are not alone this Christmas Churches across West Midlands are inviting local communities to come together and celebrate Christingle’s 50th anniversary to support The Children’s Society and show vulnerable children they are not alone this Christmas. Research from The Children’s Society has found that 200,000 10 to 17 year olds in the UK are experiencing emotional neglect on a regular basis and some are struggling with other difficulties at home that create far from a picture of a happy Christmas. A number of Christingle services, including a special service at Birmingham Cathedral, are being held throughout

December and beyond. This year, The Children’s Society has created an original song for schoolchildren, congregations or community choirs to include in their Christingle services. The whole community is welcome to join the festivities and all money raised will go towards helping children dealing with a range of complex issues including violence, abuse and emotional neglect. Christingle is an opportunity for people of all ages to come together, light a candle and enjoy the warmth and joy of this special festive occasion. It is a celebration named after the

Christingles given out at the event – these are oranges decorated with red ribbon, sweets or dried fruits on cocktail sticks and a candle, to highlight different parts of the Christian story. The Children’s Society brought the Christingle tradition to England 50 years ago and in that time the collections at these events have helped the charity to work with more than a million children and young people. With the help of the local people attending this year’s anniversary Christingle event the charity aims to raise even more crucial funds to help children who are facing Christmas alone.

Page 44 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2018

- OVERSEAS NEWS -

Ethiopia Elects its First Female President

Don’t miss our Education, Training & Recruitment Section Pages 14 & 15!

l Mohamed Salah

Voting Up for Africa’s Best

The BBC African Footballer of the Year 2018 is promising to be as strong a fought contest this year as it ever was with a five-man shortlist that will make it a difficult decision to reach for the selected expert African football panel. With voting now closed, this year's nominees include Juventus centre-back Medhi Benatia, 31, who won his fourth consecutive league title this year - two with Bayern Munich and two with Juve and captained Morocco at this summer's World Cup, Napoli defender Kalidou Koulibaly played his part in his club's battle with Juve for the Serie A title, including the winner against the eventual champions in the run-in. Atletico Madrid midfielder 25-year-old Thomas Partey who established himself as a first-team regular for Diego Simeone's side, including a late appearance as a substitute in the Europa League final win over Marseille. The final results will be announced in Focus on Africa on World News and World Service Radio on December 14.

thephoenixnewspaper.com

Venice floods a climate change issue

l President Sahle-Work Zewde, the first female President of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia

or the first time in its history, the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia has chosen is a woman as its President. Born in the capital city of Addis Ababa, Sahle-Work Zewde, a former Ambassador of the United Nations and the diplomatic corps, is modern Ethiopia’s first female head of state. Sahle-Work, 68, went on to study

natural science at the University of Montpellier, France. She fluent speaks three languages – English, French, and the country’s native language Amharic. She formerly served as the Ethiopian Ambassador to France, and was also the first woman to become the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Representative to the African Union and Head of the United

Nations Office to the African Union (UNOAU) at the level of Under-Secretary-General. "In a patriarchal society such as ours, the appointment of a female head of state not only sets the standard for the future but also normalises women as decisionmakers in public life," tweeted Fitsum Arega, the top aide to Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who leads Ethiopia's government and

policy. Zewde herself also tweeted: “It is an honor and immense privilege to have been appointed as the 4th President of FDR#Ethiopia. I am very much humbled by this unique opportunity to once again serve my beloved country Ethiopia.” She replaces Mulatu Teshome, who resigned the presidency.

Venice has always been a sinking repository of old stories. But what current floods make clear is that it is also an overflowing petri dish of what is to come. The so-called ‘Acqua Alta’ is a high tide that strikes Venice on average four times a year. According to a 2009 article in the New Scientist, a team of researchers studying the impact of climate breakdown and erosion on the city made a conservative estimate that: “by the end of the century high water could swamp the city between 30 and 250 times a year.” Back then, the lead scientist described this as “unsustainable aggression.” In March 2017, the UN General Assembly High-Level Event on Climate Change and the Sustainable Development Agenda concluded that: “The climate and sustainable development agendas are more than mutually enforcing, their fates are intertwined.”

WWI Centennial Project Brings Forgotten Stories to Worldwide Audience Forgotten stories of Black American WWI veterans are being made available to students through immersive storytelling technology thanks to a collaborative partnership with Google Expeditions, the Friends of the Victory Memorial and the West Virginia University Reed College of Media Innovation Centre. ‘WWI Through the Eyes of the Chicago Defender’ brings history to life through virtual reality taking viewers on a tour of WWI-era United States as seen through the eyes of the nation’s most influential Black weekly newspaper at that time. The project has been commissioned for Google

Expeditions, a product that allows teachers to take their classes on virtual field trips, immersing students in experiences that bring abstract concepts to life, virtual objects into the classroom, and gives students a deeper understanding of the world beyond the classroom. On the expedition, students will follow stories encompassing broad themes from that era including Jim Crow laws, the Great Migration, women’s struggle for civil rights, the second rise of the KKK and the individual story of the 370th Infantry Regiment, formerly the “Old 8th” Illinois National Guard unit, the only entirely Black combat unit during World War I

commanded by Black officers. Joel Beeson, an associate professor at the WVU Reed College of Media and expedition producer, explained; “This technology was designed for gaming and entertainment, and we’re adapting it to engage communities that have been historically marginalized from authorship of stories. For this project, we’re used new technology that really wasn’t intended for what we are doing.” While the technology itself is ground-breaking, Beeson says that what’s really innovative is how it’s used to give new audiences a better understanding of and appreciation for their historical past.

“Innovation comes out of problem-solving and being open to how you can tell stories to create new knowledge,” said Beeson. “For example, it might be easiest to document a story by writing it, but with VR and Augmented Reality, we can engage young people by letting them experience it [almost] firsthand.” Teachers are able to download the Google Expeditions app for Android or iOS and lead the class using a tablet, while students view it with a smartphone and headphones with Google Cardboard or any virtual reality headset. A narrated standalone version of the project is scheduled to launch later this month.

l Forgotten stories told through images

Send in your stories to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

@PhoenixNewsUK

The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2018 - Page 45

- HOLIDAY AND TRAVEL -

A Month of Colour and Christmas Spirit

Despite its tropical setting, Mexico’s Pacific Coast radiates traditional Christmas character. Throughout December, you’ll find brightly decorated streets, festive scenes and restaurants serving up the finest seasonal cuisine. Add Puerto Vallarta, in the state of Jalisco and Riviera Nayarit, in the state of Nayarit, with its pristine beaches, crystal waters and cheerful events, and you get two unmissable Christmas destinations.

A Colourful Christmas Month

In Puerto Vallarta, the run-up to Christmas starts 1 December with the Guadalupe processions. Bearing the name of Puerto Vallarta and Mexico’s patron saint, this 12-day series of parades is a sight to behold. Expect floats, folk dancers, great music and fireworks to kick off the month with a bang. 12 December marks the Festival of the Virgin of Guadalupe, an important religious and social holiday. Hundreds of people gather in Puerto Vallarta’s central plaza to enjoy the region’s specialties along with a fireworks display. You can also head to Quimixto, a small south shore community, where a “flotilla” of decorative fishing boats illuminates the coast. During Christmas Week, 16–24 December, everyone celebrates with gatherings called posadas, reenacting Mary and Joseph’s search for a place to stay in Bethlehem. Then, on Christmas Day, there’s a big party full of festive dishes, piñatas and Mexican Christmas traditions.

Switch-on as First Christmas at Beaulieu Trail Opens

fter months of planning the very first Christmas at Beaulieu has opened to visitors with a switch-on of over a million lights in the grounds of the New Forest attraction. Beaulieu has been transformed with over 11 individual installations on a mile-long shimmering trail. Over 437 theatrical lighting units have been put in place and 11 miles of power cable laid to create the magical Christmas at Beaulieu experience. Lord Montagu said: “The gardens of Palace House are usually difficult to appreciate in the dark winter evenings, so this first illuminated trail is presenting the landscape in a new, magical light. “The varied forms of

illumination, changing scenes and music really accentuate the Christmas atmosphere in different ways throughout the grounds and gardens. “I am looking forward to seeing people’s faces light up as they make their way around the trail.” Visitors will marvel at the 200ft long Cathedral of Light with a tunnel of 30,000 bud lights and the Canopy of Lights with over 20,000 twinkling pea-lights. A musical installation set to the tune of The Twelve Days of Christmas will play over 2,200 times during the course of the event and Father Christmas and his elves will give 1,110 performances to greet visitors from the roof of Beaulieu’s veteran bus.

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Page 46 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2018

SPORT - WITH STEVE WILLIAMS

England to host Women's Euro 2021 England will host the 2021 Women's European Championship, Uefa has confirmed. The Football Association was the only bidder but had to meet strict guidelines before being awarded it by European football's governing body. The draw for next summer's World Cup in France will take place at the Seine Musicale, near Paris, on 8 December and be shown live on BBC Two. Eight venues were included in England's bid, alongside the national stadium including;Brighton & Hove Albion's Amex Stadium, Brentford's Community Stadium, MK Dons' Stadium MK, Manchester City's Academy Stadium, Notts County's Meadow Lane, Peterborough's Abax Stadium, Rotherham's New York Stadium and Sheffield United's Bramall Lane – with the final to be held at Wembley.

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- SPORT -

Edgbaston Already a ‘Sell-Out’ for 2019 Ashes Edgbaston Already a ‘Sell-Out’ for 2019 Ashes

dgbaston Stadium has already announced a sell-out for the first three days of next summer’s opening Test match of the Specsavers Ashes series between England and Australia following a public ballot and priority booking window for Warwickshire County Cricket Club Members and previous Test match purchasers, hosts an Ashes Test match for the 15th time from Thursday 1 August 2019. Neil Snowball, Chief Executive of Edgbaston Stadium, said: “We changed our ticketing model for this 1st Specsavers Ashes Test match by operating a ballot process for the first time. This ensured that we could be as fair as possible in allocating tickets, whilst also providing a priority window to our most loyal supporters and keeping a smaller general sale allocation for new supporters. However, the results of the ballot exceeded everyone’s expectations, with applications

for almost 65,000 tickets across the first four days, which demonstrates how highly the Ashes is valued as a major global sporting contest.” England secured an eightwicket victory over Australia in the 2015 Ashes Series Test match at Edgbaston, which started a run of four consecutive Test victories at the Birmingham venue. Overall, England have now won their last nine fixtures across all three formats of cricket in Birmingham, leading to the ‘Fortress Edgbaston’ nickname. Snowball added: “The noise that England supporters generate here at Edgbaston is different to anything else in the country, arguably the world. “We know that Joe Root and the team love playing here and we believe that there’s nowhere better to start an Ashes Series. “It promises to be a fantastic occasion,” Snowball added. “Not just for Edgbaston, but for Birmingham and the wider West Midlands region.”

Ice Cube and LL Cool J to buy sports TV networks Rap legends turned actors, Ice Cube and LL Cool J, are joining forces, this time not as musicians, but as part of a dynamic group of investors hoping to place a bid on 22 regional sports television networks that the U.S. Justice Dept is forcing Disney to sell after their previous $71 billion acquisition of 21st Century Fox. Officials have determined that Disney, already the majority owner of ESPN, should not be allowed to control 22 more sports stations as that would

mean they have monopolized the whole market. That's why they are forced by the Justice Department to sell off the channels as soon as possible. The channels in the package reportedly include Fox Sports San Diego, Fox Sports Arizona, Fox Sports Detroit and Fox Sports Southwest, as well as YES Network which is thought to be worth $5 to $6 billion alone. The whole deal for the 22 stations is worth about $15 to $25 billion.

Racism and Homophobia Still Rising say Kick It Out Figures from antidiscrimination charity ‘Kick It Out’ have revealed a total of 520 reports, up from 469 in 2016-17, with discriminatory abuse in football increased 11% last season - a sixth successive annual rise. Reports of racism make up 53% of the overall total - up 22% from the previous season - while reports of homophobia have increased 9%. Kick It Out's education manager, Troy Townsend, declared: "We are at our most worrying period of time within the game. “As we go into 2019, the risk to the game is that it's taking us back to a time which some people thought never existed. “Twenty five years ago, hatred towards Black players was at its highest. But how far have we come? “Whilst there is great work being done, there must be more resources and stronger messages put out. “The game has to look at itself. These figures should be a sharp reminder that we are not as far as forward as maybe we thought.”

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- SPORT -

Page 42 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2018

The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2018 - Page 47

The Ashes Are Hotting Up - Page 46

Kick It Out - Page 46

New Brand for Team England T

Celebrating The Phoenix Newspaper 8th Anniversary Gala Diner and Awards and much more!

eam England has revealed its new look and feel at the proposed site of the Birmingham 2022 Athlete’s Village as five members, who represented the nation at the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games, alongside Chief Executive Paul Blanchard unveiled the new logo on the proposed site that will aim to host 6,500 athletes and officials at the 2022 Commonwealth Games. While the organisational name for Commonwealth Games England remains the same, Team

England is being pushed as the consumer facing name of the team, with its diverse group of athletes at the heart of it. As part of this re-brand, Commonwealth Games England – working with award-winning creative agency Matta – consulted a number of its athletes that competed at the Glasgow 2014 and Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games, to establish their understanding of Team England and its proposed position. At the proposed site of the future Athletes’ Village, Commonwealth Games England

Chief Executive, Paul Blanchard, was joined by Birmingham artistic gymnastics star Dom Cunningham, hockey star Lily Owsley, double Commonwealth S14 swimming champion Tom Hamer, Birmingham-born rhythmic gymnast Mimi Cesar and Commonwealth bronze medal winning basketball player Siobhan Prior. Blanchard said: “Team England is a brand that the nation can get behind – it is diverse, united and representative of England. With a home Games on the horizon, and after a hugely

successful 2018 Games, now is the right time to refresh our brand as we begin preparations for Birmingham 2022.” Birminghamborn Cunningham added: “Birmingham is my home town, and England is my nation – so to be able to represent Team England at Birmingham 2022 will be an incredible honour. I am very excited to be here today where hopefully I will be in less than four years’ time wearing this logo and getting the chance to compete for Team England in Birmingham, in front of my home crowd.”

Sitting alongside Commonwealth Games England Chairman, Ian Metcalfe, Interim CEO for Birmingham 2022, Ian Reid, and Paul Oldfield from the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Head doctor, Dr. Mike Rossiter, was also on a panel discussing Team England at the 2018 Commonwealth Games – reflecting on the nation’s successful medal haul, including 45 gold medals, as well as the achievement of taking the largest ever sporting team to leave the UK for an international Games.

Australia thrash England to win T20 title Winning captain Meg Lanning called it: “A really satisfying win,” whilst losing captain Heather Knight declared: “They were better than us,” as Australia completed an emphatic eight-wicket win over England to secure their fourth Women’s World Twenty20 title. England, bidding to

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become double world champions, was bowled out for 105 with two balls remaining in Antigua, with Australia proving ruthless with the bat, before making a comfortable 106-2 in 15.1 overs. “One thing, though,” Knight went on to say, “I’m hugely proud of the girls for reaching yet another world final.”

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