The Phoenix Newspaper - February 2014 by The Phoenix Newspaper

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Is Jim representing of today’s Britain?

Reality really bites on Benefits Street

illed as revealing the harsh realities of benefit-dependant life, Channel 4’s ‘Benefits Street’ has not only unveiled the true hardships that many feel is ignored, but, on the other hand, has created a fresh

breed of characters who, with due time and extended exposure, will be household names as the newest set of TV “Reality Stars.” Derided by many, especially in the city where it is set, there are those who see the much-watched ‘Benefits Street,’ set in Birmingham, as ‘mustwatch’ TV. Following the lives of residents on Winson Green’s James Turner Street, it highlights the trials and tribulations of

people like ‘White Dee,’ ‘Black Dee,’ ‘Fungi,’ SB, and Caitlin among others as they struggle to make their everyday life bearable at the very least. As viewers take to radio phone-ins and newspaper letter pages, to be-goad their collective ‘spleens’ at the mere thought that these ‘ne’er-do-wells’ are ‘bigging themselves up’ on national TV, they are, after all, the next set of television’s ‘Reality Stars.’ As the characters on

Benefits Street who, whilst keeping viewers intrigued, also have us asking the question; “Is this really happening in Britain, today?” you have to say it is compelling viewing. Breaking it down, though, you have to look at each individuals circumstances and, instead of looking down our noses at the less fortunate, why not look at the efforts they are making to

Continued on Page 2

f all the housemates this year, it was the controversial comedian Jim Davidson whom the public found the most adorable. So is he a changed man? Was he really the best of the ‘Celebrity Big Brother’ bunch? Better than one-time squeaky-

clean former girlie popster; Linda Nolan, overly-charming Chelsea-setter, Ollie Loche, more female eye-candy than Blue’s Lee Ryan, Dappy from NDubz, or Lionel Blair (Whatever takes your fancy). As the grumpy old man of the house, whose said to be sexist, homophobic and has a gripe with just about everybody who’s not like him, perhaps he deserves the accolade, after all, he is a changed man. Or, is his win a reality check on the state of today’s Britain.

Costas, THE star of CBB

t was so close for Costadinos Contostavlos, but, for him this is perhaps a new begginning for the ‘hard-core’ frontman, Dappy, of N-Dubz. The little cutey-Did you see the pic of him as a child?-cut a charming figure on Celebrity Big Brother, so, we might be seeing a new man cutting a dash on this year’s celebrity scene. Good on ya, Costas!

Page 2

The Phoenix – February 2014

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lobal meg a - s t a r, Prince will play a series of concerts at "iconic venues in and around London" this month. With no initial indication of which venues he will play, be they bars, arenas or stadiums, details were to be given during a press conference held in the flat of his close friend, UK soul singer Lianne LaHavas. After arriving in the UK Prince teased about the dates coming in support of his new album 'PlectrumElectrum,' which he recorded with his new all-female band, 3rdEyeGirl. A statement revealed: "Details about the event are hush-hush but as we find out more, you will be the 2nd ones to know." Prince last performed in the UK

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he death of legendary folk singer and banjo player, Pete Seeger, was felt by many in a wide variety of diverse cultures and communities as, not only was he seen as an American icon, but a world icon for using protest songs to push for social changes over the 20th century and beyond. Seeger, a titan in folk music, spent his celebrated career appearing at benefit concerts that continued through his final days, remaining politically engaged with issues including farmers rights, frack-free issues of late, and was an integral figure at Dr. Martin Kuther Link's march on Washington DC in 1963, singing his; "We Shall Overcome" anthem. At the age of 91, he performed at President Obama’s inauguration, received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, a Kennedy Center honor, and a National Medal of Arts. He is also a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame — but in later years, he was known to decline as many honors as he accepted. At a star-studded concert marking his 90th birthday at Madison Square Garden in 2009, Seeger was honored by musicians like Richie Havens, Joan Baez, Bruce Springsteen, Arlo Guthrie, Dave Matthews and dozens more. Always shunning publicity, Seeger once said: “I’m a most lucky person, but my life has almost been ruined by too much publicity. My mail comes in by the bushel.” At the Farm Aid concert in Saratoga Springs in September 2013, singing new lyrics to “This Land Is Your Land” with rock stars like Neil Young and Dave Matthews that claimed “New York was made to be frack-free,” referring to the controversial gas drilling process. He died at the age of 94 of natural causes.

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'We Shall Overcome' legend remembered Reality really bites on Benefits Street Continued from Front Page

Prince returns to UK

in 2011 at Hop Farm Festival, and has a habit of playing 'hit and run' shows announced just days before the gig. He has drip-fed fans with tracks from the new album including 'Breakfast Can Wait' and 'Screwdriver.'

make life easier, for them and theirs. Take father-of-three, Fungi, for instance, who, as he said “took the wrong road,” in his life decisions, but is looking for genuine help to guide him to the realities of the responsibilities of fatherhood. It’s like a wake-up call for all concerned, in our times of family values? There’s Mark Thomas and partner, Rebecca Howe, who, between them, spent in excess of £8.00 (in bus fares) in order to get much-needed food, from the Food Bank, for them and their children to survive. Was all that tooing-and-frowing necessary? Couldn’t there be any semblance of compassion from

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the authorities at the off-set? Mmm! Black Dee, forthright in ‘advising’ how to claim “what’s yours,” as she put it. Her per-

ers,’ so, just as long as she concerns herself on the positives around her, then, only time will tell. And then there’s ‘White Dee’ who has proven to be the star of the show. The ‘matriarchal’ figurehead on Benefits Street, she’s always there, looking to pro-

sona, too, is a result of her situation. There’s also SB whose high ambitions to become a model, though probably not openly shared by some, isn’t shared by many others. There’s a lot of love and support for her on James Turner Street, and beyond. They’ll always be ‘player hat-

vide a shoulder for anyone on the street who needs one. Is a fountain of considerable knowledge-adequate enough to help overcome their travails, and the strong support mechanism for fast-growing daughter, Caitlin, and her siblings. Poverty is no joke, so to have the lives of people, struggling to make ends meet, flashed on our screens for our own verification,

is schadenfreude at its worst. ‘Benefits Street’ is highlighting what is happening in cities, town, villages and hamlets up and down today’s Great Britain, so, as PM David Cameron says: “We’re all in it together,” make no mistake of that. Some say that the residents of James Turner Street were ‘played’ by Channel 4, for the ‘Benefit’ of us, but perhaps it’s us, the viewers, who are being ‘played’ after the programme producers, Love Products, who were said to have targeted this particular street for it community spirit. Once it runs its course, though, look out for some of the more ‘juicier’ characters to be eating their way through stomach-churning whichitty grub, skating on thin ice…literally, or being ‘locked away’ with a host of Britain’s z-listers looking for a way back onto our television screens. It’s the logical conclusion to ‘Benefits Street.’

Page 3

The Phoenix - February 2014

NEWS

Can You Help? l Ed and Katrien

l Seriously ill Ed Fox needs a stem cell donor. he girlfriend of  a Birmingham man who is seriously ill with a very rare form of blood cancer is appealing for potential stem cell donors to come forward to help save his life.      Ed Fox, a keen  volunteer and advocate of human rights, was diagnosed

with Epstein Barr Virus driven lymphoma and hemophagocytosis just days after moving to Belgium to be with his girlfriend Katrien. Since May, 27-year-old Ed has been undergoing heavy chemotherapy to hold back the illness whilst he waits for a suitable donor, which is proving difficult.     As well as constantly being by Ed's side, Katrien has been raising awareness  via the internet, the local media and has set up a page on Facebook: "Red EdWord Stamceldonor" in a desper-

as many people as possible will You can help Ed in two ways. If you are in good health and register.”      Despite dealing with the hard- under 55 years old you can regest thing he’s ever dealt with in ister as a donor with the Delete his life, Ed continues to look Blood Cancer Trust at www. on the bright side.  He says,  deletebloodcancer.org.uk  or the “Chemo wasn’t that bad, I’ve Anthony Nolan Trust at  www. had worse hangovers. Some- anthonynolan.org. They will times I have tough days, but I send you a free do-it-yourself swab/spit-it, which will be TELECOMMUNICA VOICE IS ONE OF THE MOST PROMISING Donor know that I can count on my girl- ICOM BASED UK. SIMPLIFYING THE LATEST used INtoTHE analyse your DNA andCOMMUNICATION T Katrien explains, “The chance friend, family and friends. AMONG THE GLOBAL ETHNIC ICOM VOICE IS ONE OF THE MOST PROMISING TELECOMMUNICATION PROVIDERS ICOM VOICE IS ONE MOST PROMISING SERVICE PROVIDERS test for aSERVICE match. YouCOMMUNITIES can also IS THE ULTIMATE A of a match is barely 1 in 50,000, andOFITHE haven’t been TELECOMMUNICATION BASED IN Katrien THE UK. SIMPLIFYING THE LATEST COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY JARGONS BASED IN THE UK. SIMPLIFYING THE LATEST COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY JARGONS his online campaign  Ajoin TRUE ASPIRATION SIMPLIFYING THEat: GLOBAL COMMUNICA AMONGtogether THE GLOBALfor ETHNIC COMMUNITIES IS THE ULTIMATE APHORISM OF OF ICOM VOICE. but without the help of a stem that long, so what AMONG THE GLOBAL SERVICE ETHNIC COMMUNITIES ICOM VOICE IS ONE OF THE MOST PROMISING TELECOMMUNICATION PROVIDERS IS THE ULTIMATE APHORISM OF ICOM VOICE. VERY THOUGHT BEHIND THE CONFINEMENT OF ICOM VOICE AN www.facebook.com/edneedsyou   cell donor theSIMPLIFYING love of my is she is doing for me now is undeBASED IN THE UK. THE life LATEST COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY JARGONS THE VERY BEST SERVICE TOTHE OUR CUSTOMERS ACROSS THE GLO A TRUE ASPIRATION OF SIMPLIFYING THE GLOBAL COMMUNICATION ARGOTS WAS A TRUE ASPIRATION OF SIMPLIFYING THE GLOBAL COMMUNICATION ARGOTS WAS THE AMONG THE GLOBAL ETHNIC COMMUNITIES IS THE ULTIMATE APHORISM going to die. That is why I hope scribable.”         OF ICOM VOICE. VERY THOUGHT BEHIND THE  CONFINEMENT OF ICOM VOICE AND OUR AIM IS TO DELIVER VERY THOUGHT BEHIND THE CONFINEMENT OF ICOM VOICE AND OUR AIM IS TO DELIVER ate plea to save her boyfriend’s life. Momentum is being gathered with people like Derren Brown, Ross Kemp and The Good Men Project all supporting Ed's cause and helping raise awareness, however they are not out of the woods yet.

T H EGLOBE. S E RVI C E S T HAT W E S P EC IALI S E I N : THE VERY BEST SERVICE TO OUR CUSTOMERS ACROSS THE THECOMMUNICATION VERY BEST SERVICE TO OUR CUSTOMERS ACROSS THE GLOBE. A TRUE ASPIRATION OF SIMPLIFYING THE GLOBAL ARGOTS WAS THE VERY THOUGHT BEHIND THE CONFINEMENT OUR TO DELIVER TH ICOM EOFS ICOM E VOICE RVIVOICE C EISSONE TAND HAT W EAIM S PIS EC IALI S E I NTELECOMMUNICATION : OF THE MOST PROMISING SERVICE PROVIDERS THE SE RVIGLOBE. C E S T HAT W E S P EC IALI S E I N : THE VERY BEST SERVICE TO OUR CUSTOMERS ACROSS THE BASED IN THE UK. SIMPLIFYING THE LATEST COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY JARGONS LO N G - D I S TAN C E I P AMONG THE GLOBAL ETHNIC COMMUNITIES IS THE ULTIMATE APHORISM OF ICOM TELEPH ON Y S EVOICE. RVI C E S

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The Phoenix – February 2014

NEWS

Celebrating The 'Year Of The Horse'

irmingham will be welcoming in the Year of the Horse as the city’s Chinese community stages yet another festival of colour and vibrant activities for the start of the Chinese New Year. Based on the lunar and solar calendars, the actual date of Chinese New Year varies, but always falls between late January and midFebruary. Each year in the Chinese calendar is represented by one of the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac. The Birmingham Chinese Festival Committee have announced that the celebrations would be in the Arcadian Centre, Birmingham, from 11.30am to 5.30pm on Sunday, February 2

Say goodbye to the Year of the Snake and hello to the Year of the Horse as the stage programme, including parades, fireworks,

lantern festivals, dancing and other performances, begins at 12.30pm. Admission to the event is free. The Lord Mayor of Birming-

ham, Cllr Mike Leddy, and the Leader of Birmingham City Council, Cllr Sir Albert Bore, will mark the start of the celebration with the traditional ceremony of dotting the lion’s eyes. Birmingham Chinese Festival Committee chairman Jeffrey Yap said: "These celebrations are, in no way, exclusive to the Chinese community. We always welcome people from all our city's communities to join in the fun and enjoy one of the oldest celebrated festivals in the world. It’s a great day out for all the family." The event is a huge festival among Chinese communities and across the world.

The Phoenix - February 2014

he death of BBC World News presenter, Komla Dumor, is still as big a shock as sudden it was. One of Ghana's best-known journalists, the 41-year-old who joined BBC World Service radio in 2007, four years after winning the Ghana Journalist of the Year, for the first time is the grandson of Philip Gbeho, the composer of the Ghanaian national anthem. He died suddenly in London drawing reaction from family, friends and colleagues alike. In a statement posted on the BBC website, thie Global News Director Peter Horrocks said Dumor was "a leading light of African journalism. Africa's energy and enthusiasm seemed to shine through every story Komla told." The Ghanaian President, John Dramani Mahama, mourned Dumor's death, posting on Twitter; "Our nation has lost one of its finest ambassadors." Former UN Secretary General, Kofi Annan, said: "With Komla Dumor's sudden and tragic death,

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Page 5

NEWS

Ghana loses one of its finest ambassadors

Africa has lost one of its brightest young talents. Komla was an inspirational journalist, always determined to find the facts and report on the truth. I shall miss his smile and wonderful sense of humour. May his soul rest in peace." He graduated with a master's

degree in public administration at Harvard University, after which Dumor, who was born in Accra, in 1972, fronted BBC World Service radio "Focus on Africa" programme. He died of a heart attack, leaving his wife, Kwansema, with whom he had three children.

Sewing for Pleasure

collection of three, Sasha Baron Cohen. Catwalk Fashion Shows, hostindividually themed There's the popular Sewing ed by Brenda Killigrew of IDC 9ft Giant Books from Club, sponsored by Freduen- Academy, will be taking place textile extraordi- bery/Vilene, sewing author, place and visitors will be invited naire Alison Murray will be Laura Strutt who will be running to enjoy all that the show has to on display at Sewing for Pleas- an exciting range of free mini- offer and there's the history of ure, Fashion Embroidery & workshops and resident expert, fashion, viewed through an excitStitch and Hobbycrafts at the Thelma Judge, with her wealth ing collection of handbags, hats NEC, Birmingham from 20-23 of dressmaking knowledge in the and gloves from 1890 to 1960. March, as well as all the latest ‘Sewing Clinic.’ The Craft Club is back and supplies from more ready to beat their curthan 300 exhibitors rent world record of the with the very latest longest knitted chain products, ideas and and with everything All you have to do to be in with a chance of winning innovations. from sewing, knitting one of 10 pairs of tickets to the Sewing for Pleasure A selection of cosand quilting to paperShow in Birmingham, is answer this simple question: tumes from the film craft, cardmaking and spectacular ‘Les Mijewellery making, the Costumes from which film spectacular sérables’ will also be latest innovations from will be on display at the Sewing For on display as one of the world of creative Pleasure show? the main features at craft and stitching will the show, with exclube there, all visitors can a) Les Misérables sive costumes created enjoy a free programme b) Les Ferdinand by Oscar nominated of Quick & Easy Workc) Les Dennis Paco Delado and worn shops, Talks and DemTo be in with a chance of winning, send your answer, by an all-star cast inonstrations each day along with your name, address and contact telephone cluding Hugh Jackof the show and disnumber to competitions@thephoenixnewspaper.com man, Russell Crowe, plays from a wealth of with the subject “Sewing for Pleasure Show”. Closing and comedy duo ‘The the finest textile artists date is 10th March. There is no cash alternative. Full Thénardiers’, Helena from around the world. T&C’s on our website. Bonham Carter and

COMPETITION

Send at:

Page 6

The Phoenix – February 2014

COMMUNITY NEWS

‘You’ve Got it so Use It’

new independent African and Caribbean grassroots politically non-aligned organisation will be launched simultaneously in Birmingham and Wolverhampton to encourage people of African and African Caribbean Heritage to register and vote on February 5th. Working in partnership with the Church of God of Prophecy and other Black-led churches, TickIT is on a mission to let people of African and African Caribbean heritage know just how significant political force they can be in the 2015 General Elections.

he National Homebuilding and Renovating Show returns to the NEC in Birmingham, and remains a must for those building a new home from scratch or tackling a renovation project. For 2014, the exhibition, sponsored by Anglian Home Improvements, aimed at the serious self-builder, is reenergising itself with a host of new features including the ‘Energy Saving Home’ and ‘Sustainable Homes Show’. Visitors will be inundated with niche products and over 500 specialist exhibitors that you won’t find on the high street. Piers Taylor, award-winning RIBA architect and co-presenter of BBC2 series ‘The House That £100k Built,’ will be making his debut appearance at the show this year by joining one

COMPETITION

All you have to do to be in with a chance of winning one of 2 pairs of tickets to the National Homebuilding and Renovating Show in Birmingham, is answer this simple question:

What is the name of one of the new features at the National Homebuilding and Renovation Show? a) Energy Saving Home b) Energy Spending Home c) Energy Banking Home To be in with a chance of winning, send your answer, along with your name, address and contact telephone number to competitions@thephoenixnewspaper.com with the subject “Homebuilding & Renovating Show Competition”. Closing date is 20th March. There is no cash alternative.

TickIT is looking to inform and educate the community about the ‘power of their votes’. If the voting trends of other electorates remain the same, voters of African and Caribbean descent can decide who will win in those 56 seats. Along with the encouragement to vote will be a comprehensive political education programme.

of the country’s leading property experts, Michael Holmes, editor-in-chief of Homebuilding and Renovating magazine, and Charlie Luxton, sustainable architectural designer and presenter of More4’s ‘Building the Dream,’ who makes a comeback for the first time since 2011, to educate and inspire visitors about the innovations and trends within the industry. During the show, from 27-30 March, all the experts will provide credible commentary and recommendations for every aspect of your project, ranging from design, finance, renewable, energy sustainability, restoration and legal issues. The team of specialist property experts to join Michael Holmes, Piers Taylor and Charlie Luxton this year also includes: Jason Orme (editor of Homebuilding & Renovating magazine); Roger Hunt (award-winning writer and eco expert); David Snell (self-build and plot finding expert); Chris Reeves (chartered builder and lawyer); Hugo Tugman (architectural designer and Real Homes magazine design expert); and Bob Branscombe (chartered surveyor and builder). No matter how small or large your project, visitors will leave with an abundance of credible information to help you along with your self-build or renovation plans.

“The voting record of our people is historically low due to a lack of confidence that politicians will do anything to address our concerns” said Camille AdeJohn Chair of TickIT. “But we have to take the initiative and tell people about the political leverage and influence we now have through our votes,” she continued. A recent study by Operation Black Vote, states that unless political candidates engage and seek to win black and minority support, there could be a setback in their election prospects. Some ethnic demographic calculations even suggest that there is a race deficit that could cost political parties between 20 and 40 seats in the 2015 elections. TickIT is staffed by community activists and concerned individuals who all work in a voluntary capacity on account of their passion to increase local community involvement in the democratic process. Members firmly believe that one of the ways to challenge disparity in

such issues as stop and search, unemployment and funding cuts to community groups, is through the ballot box.

“There is a democratic deficit that results in those who do not vote being unable to realise their potential and to influence the decision making processes within society.” Chester Morrison, a TickIT organiser says. “The effect of this is to make society less democratic because the structures are designed to operate even when only a minority of people vote.” Recognising that the UK elections can no longer be won by politicians who cater only for their own core support, TickIT is targeting marginal seats in Birmingham, Wolverhampton, London and Sandwell. Bishop Wilton Powell, Church of God of Prophecy said: “Its time we move from the margins for the transformation of our communities by using our votes."

The Phoenix - February 2014

Know who you are and embrace it!

COMMUNITY NEWS

A word with Bishop Joe Aldred

“

Page 7

f you aren’t happy with yourself, you aren’t happy with whom you want to be, or even worse, where it is you want to be in life. This is the reality for many people today. A person with no understanding of their history is a tree without roots. My message this month is to embrace who you are. Break free from the confinement of ‘the box’. Everybody wants you to be boxed in, but don’t be! I say to myself I’m a Father, a husband, a public speaker and a Bishop, so how can I be placed into one box? Acknowledge that you are in fact working a multitude of titles and

personality, regardless of the colour of your skin or where you are from.”

Speaking exclusively to the Phoenix Newspaper, Dr Aldred provides insight into leading a more fulfilled life. Many of his teachings and acknowledgement come from his book, ‘Thinking outside the Box’. “Birmingham is rich in its ethnic mix based upon many

nationalities and cultures that co-exist here… in recent times new migrations and changing demographics have meant that the ethnic landscape has become increasingly complex.” The challenge therefore, is to understand you first, before judging anybody else.

Space the ‘Final Frontier’ for 1st Black African Astronaut

istory will be made when Mandela Maseko becomes the first African to be blasted into space. Maseko, a 25-year-old DJ from South Africa, is one of 23 people who will make an hour-long sub-orbital ride out of the Earth’s atmosphere, in 2015, after beating off one million other entrants who competed for the priceless seat. After passing a number of gruelling tests, which included standing in a room that spun without a floor, pushing him against the walls by G-Force, he proved one of the most prepared for what would be an historic space mission. "I want to go down in history as the first Black South African in space," he said. “I was chosen out of 30 who undertook some

very intense challenges, at a test station in Free State and nailed them all. I was meant to go and be the first Black African in space – I earned it by being simply the best prepared for the gruelling demands." After further tests, and the numbers dwindled, he undertook further, even more daunting, examinations, in Orlando, Florida, which he overcame: "I'm a typical township boy,

taught to face all the challenges thrown at me," he said. “It still hasn't really sunk in,” said the proud Mandela. “We only ever hear about this kind of thing achieved by people who are not from the townships, but now it has, it's an overwhelming feeling. I hope now that more African people will be interested in space.” Now, the 'Final Frontier' is reachable to everybody.

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AZUZA STREET WITH ROLAND JOSEPH TETTEH

REETINGS FROM GHANA TO THE BELOVED PEOPLE OF GREAT BRITAIN. My name is Roland Joseph Tetteh. I am your brother in the Lord. I was born in October 3, 1966 in Ghana. I now work as a logistics manager at William Pitt construction in Accra Ghana.

Knowledge

nowledge is basically defined as acquaintance or familiarity with facts, truths, or principles. It could be the state of knowing something especially observable phenomena implicitly or explicitly. Awareness, consciousness, or familiarity gained by experience or learning or affinity with a particular subject constitutes knowledge. Since primitive times, mans ultimate quest for meaning, identity, understanding and the place he occupies in the vast seemingly incomprehensible universe has been the search for knowledge. Everything that exists, be it observable phenomena or that can only be perceived by the senses or experienced intuitively seems to have some mystery revolving around it and in other to unravel that mystery, gain control or understanding of it, One must possess knowledge of it. The biblical injunction or aphorism which states that lack of knowledge thereof one will perish makes the centrality of right knowledge to human existence unchallengeable.

by Roland Joseph Tetteh

The controversial nature of the subject of knowledge calls for clarification right from the outset. In a materialist sense of the nature of knowledge, no accurate or perfect knowledge of a subject, thing or object could be known.

To reinforce this notion of the problems of knowledge, I will briefly digress from the point am making so that we can examine other methods and ways which has been developed to help clarify the path to perfect knowledge. Epistemology is the branch of philosophy that studies knowledge. It attempts to answer the basic question: what distinguishes true (adequate) knowledge from false (inadequate) knowledge? Or the study or a theory of the nature and grounds of knowledge especially with reference to its limits and validity The definition of knowledge is a matter of ongoing debate among philosophers in the field of epistemology. The classical definition, described but not ultimately endorsed by Plato, specifies that a statement must meet three criteria in order to be considered knowledge: it must be justified, true, and believed. The development of the scientific method has made a significant contribution to how knowledge is acquired. To be termed scientific, a method of inquiry must be based on gath-

I love the lord and the lord love us all, every month I will be bringing to you God’s News from various different perspective. As a little background to myself presented in this document, I am persuaded to bring certain things to light because until we receive the understanding of God, we will continue to walk in darkness. This write-up is aimed at

ering observable and measurable evidence subject to specific principles of reasoning and experimentation. The scientific method consists of the collection of data through observation and experimentation, and the formulation and testing of hypotheses. Though the scientific approach to attaining knowledge has been useful to gaining knowledge, it is not the ultimate approach therefore has limitations. Hindu Scriptures present two kinds of knowledge, Paroksh Gyan and Prataksh Gyan. Paroksh Gyan (also spelled Paroksha-Jnana) is secondhand knowledge: knowledge obtained from books, hearsay, etc. Prataksh Gyan is the knowledge borne of direct experience, i.e., knowledge that one discovers for oneself. The Old Testament's tree of the knowledge of good and evil contained the knowledge that separated Man from God: "And the LORD God said, Behold, the man is become as one of us, to know good and evil…" (Genesis 3:22) The cultivation of knowledge in a spiritual platform is a sure way of arriving at divine, true and perfect knowledge. The above mentioned methods all points to the fact that there are several ways of gaining knowledge though the methods are blighted by obvious limitations. Man possess an intuitive or latent abilities which makes it pos-

The Phoenix – February 2014

going beyond the ordinary; to appreciate the spiritual blessing that comes to us very second in our life. Every man’s ignorance is his mountain. The solution that changes our lives is the revelation of God. Like the good book says, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be

sible for him to experience what the bible calls the Knowledge of good and evil. This has made known knowledge that previously was deemed unknowable. The clue to be picked from this piece of revelation is that there i s a true

path to perfect knowledge which is unknown to science neither can the wranglers of ma-

no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children”. Hos 4:6 I present this document as an access to proper knowledge and this revelation should surely be the cause of great anxiety for those truly in search of God’s redemption.

terialism fathom or the approach adopted by philosophers who expounds epistemology. The world over, false knowledge has gained ascendency due to personal and corporate interest. Doctrines and false teachings abound, theories are formulated aimed at hiding the truth. In essence, the approach to gaining true knowledge of the Godhead, spiritual injunctions and righteous path that will further lead man to the perfect knowledge of the divine is discouraged. The path to God consciousness, higher spirituality and righteousness is based on knowledge of the creator and the laws he has in his infinite wisdom designed for our spiritual fulfillment. Until we are able to desist from knowledge that is contrary to the knowledge of good, it will always be a fruitless search for knowledge and when we lack the true Godly knowledge, destruction follows. We perish.

The Phoenix - February 2014

R.I.P. Beresford Mortimer McLaughlin Sunrise - 14th January 1934 Sunset - 9th December 2013 See our March edition for a special tribute. Flowers courtesy of

Page 9

AZUZA STREET WITH ROLAND JOSEPH TETTEH uxury boutique resort, The Sarojin, has devised a special package to bring guests closer to traditional Thai customs, as well as to each other, this Valentine’s Day. On 14th February, couples staying at the five-star resort have a unique opportunity to receive a spiritual blessing from a Buddhist monk and celebrate their union as the songlike Buddhist chants help to create a romantic setting for loved ones. Its new package, entitled ‘A Buddhist Blessing of Love’, is perfectly suited for those seeking something a little out-ofthe-ordinary this Valentine’s Day. Not only will it offer a rewarding glimpse of local life – something which The Sarojin specialises in – it will also present a meaningful and memorable way for couples to connect with each other and the Buddhist ethos of Thailand. The experience begins with a morning journey to give alms to local monks as they leave their temples to walk through the local town, as they have done for centuries. From there the loving couple will transfer by luxury car to wander through the nearby town and market, before visiting one of The Sarojin’s favourite pagodas to truly engage with Buddhist rituals. Offering a small basket of items to the monks is a sign of respect and the head monk will return his thanks with a blessing as he gently pours holy water over the couple while chanting ancient Pali-Sanskirt ‘mantras’.

A Buddhist Blessing Of Love At The Sarojin

This simple yet deeply moving spiritual experience is exclusively available to guests of The Sarojin and marks a special way to honour a relationship, marriage or simply a special holiday with a partner. It has been introduced for Valentine’s Day, but will be available all year round. One of Thailand’s most idyllic resorts, The Sarojin offers an endless array of special touches to make this romantic day a truly memorable one. In addition to the blessing ceremony, loved ones can enjoy spectacular private dining settings both in out of the resort. Options include an incredible dining venue beneath a cascading jungle waterfall that flickers with hundreds of fairy lights; on a beautifully-decorated pool pavilion in the tropical grounds of the property; or on its 11km stretch of secluded white sand beach where stars twinkle in the night sky and the gentle lapping of the waves adds to the setting. There is also a multi-award winning spa, two gourmet restaurants, a sparkling infinity-edged swimming pool and complimentary sail boats for couples to enjoy at The Sarojin – perfect for lazy afternoons spent in the company of that special someone. The Sarojin’s new ‘A Buddhist Blessing of Love’ experience starts from THB 1,100 (approximately GBP 20) for two people. Rooms at The Sarojin start from THB 6,325 (approximately GBP 116), inclusive of accommodation in a luxury Garden Residence, plus all-day à la carte breakfast with sparkling wine for two people.

The Phoenix – February 2014

Page 10

BUSINESS AND FINANCE

Financial Results on the up for local CCC

arwickshire County Cricket Club has reported a yearon-year increase in annual turnover and EBITDA (Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and Amortisation) for the financial year ended 30th September 2013. In a year that the club's Edgbaston Stadium hosted five games, including the final, of the prestigious ICC Champions Trophy and t20 Finals Day, the Club's primary profitability measure increased by 90% from £755k to £1.4m whilst turnover increased by £222k to £11.74m. The operating result for the year was a profit of £4.5k against a loss of £668k in 2012 - including a depreciation charge of £1.4 million following Edgbaston's recent £32 million redevelopment. Craig Flindall, Finance Director of Warwickshire CCC, said: " 2013 was the first in which the club operated according to its new Strategic Plan, which maps out our main targets up until the end of 2016. This plan has the support of both the ECB and our main funding partner Birmingham City Council. Warwickshire's Chief Executive, Colin Povey, said: "The way in which we delivered the ICC Champions Trophy matches made a lasting impression on all major stakeholders. Hosting India on two occasions and the changes to domestic twenty20 cricket schedules are great opportunities in 2014."

JLR make statement of intent J aguar Land Rover appears to be in cruise control, racing down a single carriage freeway as the region’s leading business development strategy. The afore mentioned statement has undoubtedly been confirmed with JLR’s takeover of the world famous Dunlop facility off the M6, not to mention an unprecedented annual profit which has been shared across television platforms in recent weeks. JLR’s expansion has seen the motor giants relocate from Castle Bromwich to the vast 11 acre site previously occupied by the Dunlop Motorsport tyre and manufacturing facility. Dunlop Motorsport said in a statement: “We have confirmation from our landlord that they have agreed to sell the Fort Dunlop Motorsport site in Birmingham to Jaguar Land Rover. Our lease agreement remains valid until

the expiry of the current lease contract in May 2014.” The motor industry in Britain continues to blossom in our industrial region, with JLR one of the benefactors of a first time seen growth in six years.

Contingency

Yet despite the news of progression for one motoring giant, another in Dunlop faces repercussions and potential redundancies. Jean-Felix Bazelin, general manager of Dunlop Motorsport Europe, said contingency plans were being implemented after news of the move was broken to staff at the tyre factory on Friday. “We have a robust contingency plan to ensure continued supply of our motorsport tyres to our key customers. Our aim is to as-

sess impact and evaluate possible alternatives,” he said. With the company’s continual growth attracting worldwide renowned business through their F-Type sport models and Land Rover’s Evoque, the Castle Bromwich site appears to be the ideal destination to deliver the companies rate of expansion.

Partnership

It isn’t just the Fort Dunlop precinct where all the noise is coming from. The nearby Lode Lane plant in Solihull is developing contemporary aluminium parts to ensure production of the eagerly anticipated Range Rover and Range Rover sport models are completed. Progression in Castle Bromwich has somewhat been handicapped in recent years

due to the lack of space, whereas for the first time this year Jaguar Land Rover have acquired a larger multiplex on the Lode Lane border to enhance capacity. In a statement, the company said: “Jaguar Land Rover has exchanged unconditional contracts with Canmoor Developments Ltd to acquire approximately 11 acres of land adjacent to its Castle Bromwich manufacturing plant. “Jaguar Land Rover continues to work in partnership with local authorities and businesses to ensure that our growth plans support the local economy and community.” After a record 375,000 commercial vehicles were sold last year, and with JLR forecasting another year to be boastful, the West Midlands appears to be the companies citadel in a long fought battle for motoring excellence.

Check out entertainment, valentines, news, gadgets, big screen, horoscopes and more in the Street Cred Entertainment section starting on Page 15

ADVERTORIAL

Preserved Pensions

f you haven’t reviewed your preserved pension recently, you should.

Those who cannot afford to use an independent financial adviser because the size of your pension does not justify the charges for advice, need not despair. Admittedly, the world of pensions can present a maze of bewildering options and terminology that can drive many of us to sleep. The first step in getting the answers to questions such as: • How much is your pension currently worth? • What is the cash equivalent

transfer value? • What benefits are preserved if you transfer? • What benefits are lost of you transfer? Is to ask for a cash-equivalent transfer value. This will be the pensions admin team in the case of company pension or the pension provider or life company, in the case of a personal pension. Usually, at least one transfer value (company pension) can be obtained every 12 months, free of charge. Once you understand what the true value of your transfer is, you are then more equipped to

compare what you might gain or lose depending on where you transfer. So, why would you be interested in transferring your pension? The most common answers are: • More control as to where your funds are invested • Lower annual charges • To take or less risk in the hope of achieving your target. Apart from the above reasons, why should you take more of an interest in your preserved / frozen pensions? The

overwhelming

reason

has got to be the tax treatment of pensions when you come to take your benefits. These are staggeringly high. In some scenarios the tax treatment will be 75%, which is comprised of 20% on your income (annuity) and 55% on death. The benefits that are payable depend on the type of annuity you purchased. If you buy an annuity that guarantees to pay a pension for a minimum period of time and you die before the end of your guarantee period, any remaining payments will be paid to your estate. If you buy a joint life annuity, a dependant’s pension will be paid to your surviving spouse or civil partner.

If your annuity is guaranteed to pay out a certain amount and you die before you’ve received that guaranteed amount, the balance will be paid as a lump sum. This lump sum can be paid to anyone you wish. Income Tax will be due on the lump sum at a rate of 55 per cent. The above figures are based on best-case scenarios. In other words, if you buy no guarantees at the time you take your annuity and you die prematurely, the pension provider keeps the lot. Whatever choice you end up making, having more in your pension before those taxes are applied, means there will be more left for you and your loved ones.

l Adrian G Walker To find out more or to have a no cost consultation, please call me on 0845 475 3467; email me at enquiries@agw.uk.com or schedule a telephone appointment: www.timetrade.com/ book/RF7G2 or visit www.agw. uk.com

The Phoenix - February 2014

brand new 75 million pound investment is set to restructure Bourneville’s status within the manufacturing industry according to the Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce (GBCC). The injection of cash provided by the snack giant Mondelez Group, is a response to Lord Heseltine’s ‘no stone unturned’ report back in 2012. The report highlighted the inherent differences between trans-Atlantic production here and in comparison to that of the U.S. The injection of capital is will go towards replacing substandard equipment at the Birmingham site and provide better technology. If successful it will be fore-

casted that the level of production will match that of those working in the United States. Tim Pile, President of the Birmingham Chamber of Commerce said: “Lord Heseltine’s report highlighted that it takes a British manufacturer ten hours to achieve the same output that an American worker can do in eight hours. This has to change, so it is no surprise that at Bournville, things need to improve. But the fantastic news is Mondelez believe in the potential of Bournville. Capital is global and moves round the world easily and fast.” “Mondelez could have chosen to invest in Germany,

Page 11

BUSINESS AND FINANCE Birmingham Enterprise Zone to boost city economy

Mondelez group to help aid Bourneville in production fight back where chocolate bars can be manufactured at just half the cost. By putting this investment deal on the table, Mondelez is signalling its belief that Bournville has a great future. Industry experts have drawn parallels with the car industry, as to the state of UK production in line with American. Pile went on to state that for many years, UK factories for the likes of Honda, Toyota and Nissan have had to compete to build cars with other plants within the parent companies. He continued: “Because of heavy completion, this has resulted in the UK factories now being able to com-

pete with the best in the world. It is this prize of global competiveness that now sits within the grasp of Bournville and the achievement of which will secure the future of the factory for many years to come.” Other countries bring competition too; with chocolate reportedly produced at just half the cost in Germany. Jerry Blackett who oversees all commercial output for the Chamber as Chief Executive believes it would appear by putting this investment deal on the table, Mondelez is signalling its belief that Bournville has a great future.

l Board Director, Chris Webster he City of Birmingham will be boosted by a fifteen million pound windfall to secure future business and forward planning, Phoenix sources understand. Ran through the Birmingham City Centre Enterprise Zone (BCCEZ), the initiative will consist of 26 sites over the next 25 years, in hope of delivering 40,000 jobs within key industries. Financial services, creative industries and digital media will all benefit from the scheme. Birmingham City Council approved a £128m investment plan back in July 2012. Paradise Circus will be just one venue from a long line targeted for the surplus, with a whole host

of other locations in mind for forthcoming investment. If approved, this will provide grants and loans to developers who have been struggling to access finance. Board Director, Chris Webster who holds responsibility for the Enterprise Zone, said: “Already at sites including Arena Central, the Beorma Quarter and at Snow Hill we can see tangible progress being made with the EZ as well as important projects in the pipeline. “But we realise there are sites that may require support to get them off the ground given the challenges we know developers face in getting finance.” It is hoped this will build on the progress with the Zone, which is forecast to create 2,500 by 2015 with a number of key developments already underway.

ADVERTORIAL

Kathy shows off the Weight Loss Plan; The Cambridge way

fter yet another Christmas of excessive drink, food and repeat TV programs many of us spend the early part of the new year with our feet up, television still very much the focal point and the new, expensive gym-membership card unused on the fireplace. However, there is one highly soughtafter ‘program’ that will help you lose the weight and you don’t need to spend pounds, on leather and lycra, for the privilege. The Cambridge Weight Plan is a flexible, convenient weight-loss program, for real people, with real results. With fully Accredited Independent Consultants who are by your side, from start to finish. One successful consultant is Kathy Fraser who, herself, is testimony of the Cambridge Weight Plan: “I was overweight and always ‘promised’ myself to lose the excess. But, it was when my daughter visited me from London on one occasion. At a time in my life where I often felt lethargic she looked slimmer, svelte and fantastically healthier than ever before. And it was then that she introduced me to the Cambridge Weight Plan.” From her Cambridge Centre office, in Birmingham City Centre, Kathy has a growing list of men and women, from ages 17 - 75, who have taken on the Cambridge Weight Plan, with an endless number already having a brand new look, a new life, with new verve and, in pretty much every case, a new wardrobe. The Cambridge Weight Plan is unlike many other weight loss options. As men-

tioned, with this, you are never on your own. You have your own Cambridge Consultant who is on hand to give encouragement, support, advice and guidance whilst on your weight loss journey. With products from soups, porridges, snack bars and a selection of Eat Easy meals, everything is medically tested and approved: “Everything is tailored to the individual,” says Kathy. We talk about changing the mindset of an individual, and understanding proper eating patterns.” There are 6-steps to the Cambridge Weight Plan and the bottom line is maintaining your goal weight. You are what you eat, that's why they offer valuable eating tips. From making the smart choice in coffee shops and takeaways, to meal and recipe ideas, we'll help you stay looking your best. There is a fantastic range of meals available for example Chicken Curry, Mediterranean Chicken and Vegetarian Chilli, plus snack bars to keep you going throughout the day. More than 25 million people from all over the world have used Cambridge Weight Plan since its launch and it’s growing faster every. “It’s about rethinking your diet,” says Kathy. “And we’re here to give you a helping hand, every step of the way.”

Get in contact with Kathy: Kathy Fraser Room 610, 2nd Floor, Quayside Tower 252-260 Broad Street Birmingham B1 2HF Tel: 07539 537 802 Email: kayg61@btinternet.com There is also an office in the Handsworth area, please enquire for more details.

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BUSINESS AND FINANCE

by Jonathan Maley

ing boroughs still hold some of the worst levels of employment deprivation across the United Kingdom.

Features Coordinator

hen the BBC embarked on moving a large segment of their organisation on a journey north, really, they were sending a message. That message said the corporation existed away and outside from the M25. This rearrangement of enterprise is catching on, with Birmingham leading the light where innovation has been concerned. New Street station has seen dramatic improvements to accommodate the incoming HS2 not to mention the imminently arriving retail giant John Lewis. Commercially the city’s face has been lifted and away from the excitement of future retail and travel opportunity, Birmingham’s private sector is also undergoing a dramatic transformation. For the first time, Brindleyplace welcomes Deutsche Bank to their premises and with it, over 2000 jobs. The doors are expected to be opened this summer in what is already a thriving business and arts landmark. Richard McCarthy, Managing Director and Site Head for Deutsche Bank, Birmingham, said: “Brindleyplace has a real sense of community and its connection to the main transport hubs enables us to both attract and retain the very best talent. The estate is eco-friendly, the level of service being offered is outstanding and it complements the work/life balance that we are trying to cultivate” Birmingham has competed with the capital in attracting new business opportunities since the Bullring came to town in 2001. Culturally however, Brum has been ahead of the pack. The

Skilled Talent Pool

Brindleyplace excited to welcome global Bank to the City cities immeasurable diversity and blend of cultural heritage has been recognised in the global banks decision to relocate, something recognised by Chief Executive of Market Birmingham, Neil Rami: “Deutsche Bank has chosen to expand in Birmingham over a number of potential locations, but our talent and quality of life and potential to fuel their growth globally, has helped us secure one of the largest property deals in the UK this year.”

Prestige

What this means for the city is further global recognition, away from the motoring expansion of

Jaguar Land Rover and strength in sporting circles. The hope for the region now is that further enterprise will be capitalised with the movement of such a prestigious Bank. Jeremy Marchant of Moorfield and Ross Blair, Managing Director, of Hines UK, said: “We knew that Brindleyplace provided the ideal environment for large corporate occupiers and were confident that Five Brind-

leyplace would provide an opportunity to deliver a market-leading product for such a user. This substantial corporate investment by Deutsche Bank in Birmingham is a major boost for the city and its business community. It is a great reflection of the city’s international commercial status and impressive talent pool.” Birmingham’s future inhabitants have also been welcomed by those seeking employment. For the first time since 2008, employment in the UK has been raised by an approximated 1.7%. Despite the numbers, Birmingham and her surround-

Jamaican Real Estate founder looking to kick start your investment

l CEO Damion Wongsong

he ways in which money exchanges hands through private or commercial business is changing. Thanks to the World Wide Web, opportunities have arisen whereby faster and safer transportation of investment can be completed. Kick-Jamaica, a real estate investment business model was founded to ensure exactly that, your future investment is made easy. CEO Damion Wongsong saw the web as an ideal way of transporting large sums of capital between the U.S and his homeland, Port-Antonio in Jamaica and believes there is scope for you to be able to do the same. Speaking with the Phoenix, Wongsong stated: “Kick Jamaica is a focal point for capital providers and industry professionals to join forces

in a synergistic, focused format. Our carefully selected advisors consistently deliver “under the radar” deal flow, specifically geared towards the objectives of our capital clients” With that in mind, what ‘KJ’ is offering is to create an online profile based on your individual need, whilst Damion’s team of experts explore ways in which your investment can be capitalized.

Investment

“Kick Jamaica is a focal point for deal making, and we have created a platform for capital providers and industry professionals to join forces in a synergistic, focused format. Our carefully selected advisors consistently deliver “under the radar” deal flow, specifically geared towards the objectives of our capital clients” Mr. Wongsong’s creatively de-

vised website breaks down the future of real estate and its worth between the Caribbean and the rest of the world. To put that into perspective, Kick-Jamaica forecast that within residential and commercial Real Estate, the traditional route of buying and selling is dissolving, with regulations become less clear. “CNN recently predicted over six million homes will become REO's in the next three years. It may simply become, as we stated, the time for the 'Gold Rush' of real estate investment... but one needs to know how to 'pan for the gold.” With Offices in New York, South Africa and Jamaica respectively, it is looking likely the reported gold mine could become a global takeover, and with that, the future of large money transactions being revolutionized on the net.

Despite this, Leader of Birmingham City Council, Sir Albert Bore spoke positively regarding why the ‘Second City’ was chosen, he said: “Birmingham generated more inward investment than any other city in the UK outside London last year, and this decision is an important indicator that we have got the offer right. The combination of great buildings, an extensive, skilled talent pool and a wealth of cultural events and facilities, as well as having the youngest population in Europe, is helping to cement the city’s position as a most significant international commercial centre… we’re fast becoming one to watch for companies looking for a location that can help them tempt the best talent.” The challenge for the City now is whether those definitive factors which persuaded such a lucrative contract with the Banking Giants can withstand the barrage of competition elsewhere. With Liverpool embarking on a vociferous challenge to topple Manchester’s commercial assets sine their capital of culture status, back in 2008, the stage is set for Birmingham to ensure the future of nations growth lay in the heart of the United Kingdom. Sir Albert Bore concluded: “Deutsche Bank’s decision to base their new center of excellence in Birmingham endorses our strategy to promote the city’s ability to meet the needs of an increasingly international financial services sector. Birmingham’s financial services sector is the second largest in the UK outside London and is expected to grow on average by 3.5% every year for the next five years.”

The Phoenix - February 2014

MoneyGram 2nd Most Improved Brand in UK for 2013

eading global money transfer and payment service company, MoneyGram, was ranked 2nd as UK’s most improved brand, outperformed its category rivals and other top UK banks like Barclays, Santander and RBS. According to the latest report published by YouGov Brand Index in measuring brand perception among the public, MoneyGram International, is the highest new entry this year, leading the way as the most improved brand in its category as consumers trust and confidence continue to grow in the money transfer company.

Relentless Efforts

Richard Levy, Marketing Director of UK & Ireland MoneyGram said: “This is a welcome development for our brand and the entire UK team for their relentless efforts in promoting MoneyGram and we will continue to work closely with our customers in making sure we remain top of mind when transferring money to families and friends all over the world” MoneyGram International enables consumers who are not fully served by traditional financial institutions to meet their financial needs. It offers money transfer services worldwide through a global network of 334,000 agent locations – including retailers, international post offices and financial institutions – in 200 countries and territories and also offers bill payment services in the U.S. and Canada.

The Phoenix - February 2014

LEGAL SERVICES - SUPPORTED BY

ach month, we will bring you the latest legal news and advice, which is suitable to you with the full backing and support of the Birmingham Law Society.

We will present editorial from participating law firms who feel the need to share some advice on the options available to a person in particular situations.

It is hoped that this section will help to establish links between the legal profession and the wider public and break down barriers to legal advice for ordinary people.

My Learned friend doth Protest!

he sight of barristers in wigs and gowns with solicitors carrying placards on the steps of our law courts on Monday 6th January was a first in our legal history. Lawyers staged a mass half day walk out from criminal courts bringing the wheels of justice to a temporary halt. The national protest was repeated in cities as far apart as Birmingham, London, Leeds, Liverpool, Newcastle, Bristol, Winchester and Cardiff. Lawyers are not known for direct action and militancy but many now say “enough is enough”. Cut any more from the legal aid and justice budgets and the system will become unworkable. What has happened to bring us to this? We are all aware that the difference between what the government raises in taxes and what it

spends on services needs to reduce. The books have to be balanced and cuts have fallen on (nearly) every sector and group. The court system and the legal aid budget cannot be exempt and must share the pain along with health spending, local services and the military.

Afford

What is happening though is that cuts in spending are being heaped on top of earlier cuts leaving a system that is not capable of delivering justice as we have previously understood it. It was long said that only the wealthy could afford to go to law. Access to justice was traditionally possible for only a privileged few. Then a state backed legal aid system introduced in 1948 changed all that. Legal aid became available to a broad section

Office Hours: Monday - Friday 9.00am - 5.00pm Saturday & Sunday Closed

of society who could not afford to pay for lawyers without some financial help. There was means tested of course but by the early 1980s the line was drawn such that a police constable with a family to support facing divorce was able to get help from legal aid to deal with fairly splitting the family finances.

Cuts

There was a sliding scale ranging from free representation through to receiving a contribution towards the overall cost. Both parties ended up being legally represented and, as importantly, being supported through a difficult time. The eligibility criteria have been left to wither on the vine by successive governments. Eventually, an elderly person with a small private pension found themselves unable to obtain legal

Education Law Child Care Law Harassment Law

Page 13

Supported by

aid to investigate a claim as to why their spouse had died unexpectedly in hospital during a routine procedure. By stages, legal aid was withdrawn from more and more types of case. Personal injury, medical negligence, divorce, housing and the list goes on. At first conditional fee arrangements – known as “nowin-no-fee” agreements were introduced by Parliament so as to soften the loss of legal aid in some cases. These though proved too successful and popular so were, at a stroke, made much less attractive on 1st April 2013 by new laws relieving the wrong doer from responsibility for paying all of the costs of the innocent victim.

Closures

Instead they shifted to the victim responsibility for a significant part of their lawyers fees for winning the case. At a stroke it became harder to put right a wrong suffered without having to pay for the privilege of doing so. The result will be that fewer cases will be brought. Insurers, landlords and government departments will suffer fewer payouts to aggrieved citizens who will be left carrying the costs and consequences themselves. Already these changes have contributed to the closure of many smaller law firms who had in many cases served their local communities for years. An increasing number of brave (and in some cases desperate souls) are choosing to represent themselves in court i.e. without a lawyer. This though is a recipe for disaster and at best court hearings get longer and longer as unrepresented parties struggle with the procedure, the law and the sheer

emotion of appearing in court without a lawyer. The “other side” of course with deeper pockets will be fully represented by an experienced advocate. The Judge will try to keep the playing field level but it will be an unequal contest. Advice in the voluntary sector is also under the cosh. As Martin Allsopp, president of Birmingham Law Society, pointed out. “Birmingham Law Centre closed after 100 years last year, when its funding was cut. The Citizens Advice Bureau is battling with the weight of cases and many High Street solicitors in inner city areas have already ceased trading or will be forced to close if the cuts are implemented.”

Enough

So what about the placards and the protest? This arises in the one area of law where most people cannot choose simply not to go to court. In the criminal law world a defendant charged with an offence has to turn up to face the charges. If they do not believe they committed the offence they will need expert representation the more so

in complex or serious cases. And this is what the specialist criminal lawyers, barristers and solicitors alike, are protesting about. The rate for the job has been cut so low that it only covers the criminal lawyers’ overheads barely providing an income to live on. No one goes into criminal law practice to become rich. Most do it out of a sense of vocation, service and commitment to fairness. The latest cuts proposed by Justice Secretary Chris Grayling of £120M will tip the baby out with the bathwater. It will no longer be possible for many lawyers to afford to do this vital work. More defendants in criminal cases will go unrepresented and more miscarriages of justice will result. It is time to say enough is enough. Most of the legal aid system has gone and the justice sector has shouldered all the cuts it can. The next round of cuts will probably prove fatal to criminal justice. Richard Follis Birmingham Law Society

Tel : 0845 475 1996 Employment Law 0121 270 1566 Injunctions Law Fax: 0121 523 5295 Domestic Violence Law

SOLICITORS in England and Wales. Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. www.sra.org

Branston Court, Branston Street, Birmingham, B18 6BA

Page 14 The Phoenix - February 2014

HEALTH AND FITNESS

Keep warm, keep well this winter

P’s have warned patients to take extra care this winter as ever changing

weather conditions and outbreaks of flu must be accounted for. Simple hygiene routine can

prevent further illness for our communities as cases of influenza have been known to continue, in some cases as late as May last year. Doctors are suggesting patients take the time to keep healthy and use their due diligence to stay fit and fighting. Dr Andy Carson, representing GP for the West Midlands Ambulance Service has seen the way the flu has affected his patients. He said: “There is a big difference between your average cold and a dose of the flu. It’s definitely not too late to get vaccinated. It takes about two weeks after getting the jab for antibodies to develop in the body that provide protection against the flu. Even if you get it next week, you’ll have protection for the best part of four months. If you’ve had it, you’ll know it is not something to have more than once.”

City Councillor ups game in antismoking fight

irmingham based Councillor Steve Bedser has reinstated his plea to the Government to introduce plain packaging for cigarettes. The cry comes after Birmingham City Council became the largest local authority to sign the Local Government Declaration on Tobacco Control, which was signed last month. Birmingham has fast become one of the most prevalent cities to endanger its population through smoking and passive smoking. Every year almost

5,000 people die in the City from what can only be accounted for through smoking and smoking related disease. The new treaty is hopeful of reducing smoking prevalence and health inequalities, and if backed further action will be taken.

Action

Cllr Bedser, who represents health and wellbeing, said: “Every single day in our city, nine young people take up smoking. By signing the declaration, we signal our determination to reducing those depressing statistics…The evidence in

Sugar and spice aren’t all things NICE state Health body

A l Councillor Steve Bedser support of plain packaging is overwhelming and we need action now.” Leading figures within the health sector have backed the anti-smoking push. Of those, include the Public Health Minister and the Chief Medical Officer, who underline the city council’s commitment to protecting local communities from the harm caused by smoking.

Government backed health body has warned for those of ethnic diversity living in the UK to take extra care with their sugar intake. People of African, Caribbean and Asian descent are reportedly, six times more likely to suffer from type 2 diabetes. NICE, the National Institute for Care and Health has released a brand new Local Government briefing, aimed to aid those more susceptible to be treated for severe illnesses. The briefing underlines that those of a lower body mass index (BMI) should be more aware and able to recognise potential triggers. Those of ethnically diverse backgrounds are also more likely to develop illness at a younger age. The new Local Government Briefing has published a set of guidelines for those believed to be under threat, to make sure they’re abiding by in their diets.

A wider remit of race and food culture is now spread across local authorities; therefore those in medical power believe now more than ever new briefing will highlight the importance of taking steps to address diabetes, cardiovascular disease and strokes to improve the health of local people. Professor Mike Kelly, Director of the Centre for Public Health at NICE said: "Type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke are potentially life-threating conditions, which people of African, Caribbean and Asian descent and other minority ethnicities are significantly more likely to develop than the wider population. So it's vital that local authorities are supported in taking action to prevent these illnesses in people who have a high risk of developing them.” Local authorities and partner organisations seemingly play an important role in not only com-

missioning services but providing the right information. As well as improving health levels amongst the elderly within the community, such Government backed reports cater to prevent chronic conditioning at an early age. lifestyle interventions amongst Inactive high-risk individuals makes has provingly saved lives. Professor Kelly continued: “As well as improving the health and wellbeing of individuals, taking effective action now also reduces future demand on health and social care services by enabling people to remain as independent as possible." NICE have been an active body working closely with the NHS since 1999, dedicated to providing advice for those less tolerant or more suspect to developing serious illness. The details of their listings can be further researched online at www.nice.org. uk/whatwedo

The Phoenix – February 2014

Page 15

ENTERTAINMENT

The Cosmopolitan Cutting Edge Entertainment Magazine

THE COSMOPOLITAN CUTTING EDGE ENTERTAINMENT MAGAZINE

JANUARY 2014

www.streetcredmagazine.com

£3.95 (where sold)

Idris Elba’s unforgettable ‘Long Walk’

Valentines Special Ideas for you!

Disorder Boutique Birmingham an inside look

Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour Review

PharRell Happy and hot at 40

BACKSTREET’S BACK

ringing their 2014 headline arena tour to the UK, Backstreet Boys commence the worldwide promotion of their new album “In A World Like This” at the LG Arena in Birmingham on 26th March, culminating at the Manchester Phones 4u Arena. Supporting the boys on the UK dates of the world tour are one of the biggest and best loved UK girl bands of all time, All Saints, who are reforming especially for this tour. The band were last in the UK for the “NKOTBSB” 2011 tour, the band return with Kevin Richardson,

marking these dates as the first they have done with all original members in nearly 10 years. Announcing the UK dates, the band said: “Last time we were in the UK we were living in a house together recording our album, which was incredible. Our last UK shows were with NKOTB and we had a fantastic time - the reaction was out of this world. We can’t wait to come back and blow you away with our own full headline show. We’re really excited for our UK fans to see us again as a five-piece. The original Backstreet’s back!”

Editor’s Note

really managed to stuff myself this Christmas. I planned not to, as usual, and have put on an obscene amount of weight so the profile pic you see on the editors note will not be coming down anytime soon as I feel that is my best look ha. Right now I am looking at Bootcamp Cambridge diets and ordered Insanity vids with the hope I get back in shape for 2014 as I have promised myself a well deserved break in the Caribbean. If I do not get my weight target I wont be leaving the country because going over to the beach with a belly is not exactly cool ha. Anyway Streetcredders how did you enjoy your Christmas? I am sure many of you relate to the first paragraph and feel just like me. Although the pop belly is there I am very thankful for the family Christmas meals had. Did I party? Sure did and I saw you guys enjoying yourself too. Took so many photos at different clubs, God Birmingham city nightlife was buzzing this year, we passed through TE Bar Boxxed and finally ended up in someones house slumped on their couch ha ha yes I sure brought in the new year with a bang, start as you mean to go they say. So up next is valentines the one day of love then we go back to hate and aggro ha loads coming up to look forward too as you will see in this edition guys. Always look to Streetcred as we are truly the eye of entertainment. Enjoy!

@MarkDwayneMDG1 @StreetCredMag /markdwaynemdg /streetcredmag Mark Dwayne MDG

COMPETITION!

We’ve got 2 pairs of tickets to the Backstreet Boys and All Saints concert at the LG Arena on 26th March. To be in with a chance of winning, all you have to do is answer this simple question.

Which member of Backstreet Boys has rejoined the group for this tour? Send your answer, along with your name, address, and contact number to competitions@streetcredmagazine.com. Competition closes 23:59 on 16th March. There is no cash alternative.

The Phoenix - February 2014

Page 16

ENTERTAINMENT

The Cosmopolitan Cutting Edge Entertainment Magazine

CassandrA London

Hi Cass, how are you? Hi Mark, I'm good thank you!

So looks like you have been singing for a while. Tell me when did you recognize your gift? I realised I had a voice when I was 14, I was away on a family holiday at haven holidays in Hastings and entered a talent show and won. Where was the first place you performed and what was the most memorable for what reason? Hahaha my first performance was at the talent show in Hastings. My most memorable I would have to say was with the amazing Susan Cadogan (who is best known for her lovers rock hit 'hurt so good'. She invited myself and he other singers on the night on stage to sing with her, it was a beautiful moment. What is your story? Do you have something to offer? My story...wow. which one? Lol I do have a story but it is rather long for a first interview. Let's just say it's been difficult (like it

Music

Theatre

Comedy

Dance

is for most people) and I have overcome a lot to get to the start of my new journey. I have lots to offer, at first as it stands now, I offer a unique sound to music, positive and uplifting lyrics in an industry over ridden with sex and violence. I see you are working on a debut album, tell me what are the subjects we can expect? Everything I write I have been through, so you can expect real life experiences and you can also expect to relate to some of my lyrics as we generally go through the same things. What song means the most to you and which one do you feel will make the best impact? The song that means the most to me.... I can't answer that as it changes day to say and sometimes minute to minute, they are all personal to me. I cannot predict which song will have the biggest impact as I generally get mixed reviews as to which song is their favourite. Although I have been told 'Why does it hurt so bad' has given a few people goosebumps. Tell me about some of the producers you are working with and how you got your management deal?.

Literature & Spoken Word

I am working with Monnei Lamar from Bacpay records, I have worked with Monnei on and off for a number of years and will continue to work with Monnei for as long as I have a musical career. I am also working with Dillie from Stingray records who I have a nice catalogue of songs building up. Currently I am managing myself with help from trusted experts. You’ve been through a lot of trauma personally, do you feel your bad experience helps you to be creative? Definitely, as a child I would escape reality with music. It definitely sparked my creative streak. What do your children think of your music? They have the songs they like and the ones they don’t care for haha they are brilliant little Simon Cowells hahaha. Music business is quite a lonely road when starting out, would you say you have the support from the people that matter? Hmmm.... support is definitely important. I would say I have support from those that matter, my family are supportive, without

Film

Visual Arts

them music would still be something I wanted to do. Where would you like to take your career? Wherever possible, the sky really is the limit, I won’t apply pressure to myself to be what people want me to be...or start grinding on a lamp post hahaha in order to get popularity but I will work hard to be better each time. I will let the most high (God) guide me on this journey and see where it goes So you’ve been in the studio a lot and your sound has got you recognition at the BEFFTA awards. Tell me how did you feel when you got such amazing news. It was amazing performing at BEFFTA 2013, I was on after Starboy Nathan, it was incredible. Along the journey of being an independent artist, what are the highs and lows? The highs are definitely the live performances, and the lows are I guess working with unprofessional people, although I don’t have that issue any more, fingers crossed.

Events

Workshops

I know you are very much into woman power and not into all the sex sells kind of thing. Tell me more about your views on women who feel they need to do that to make it in the tuff industry. I think it’s sad that young girls show off their body before their mind is developed enough to realise the implications that they will have. If you are fully aware of what it is you are doing and still want to show off your body, good for you. But impressionable minds are minds I believe aren’t ready for such decisions. What do you think people like about Cass? Lol I dunno, you tell me. Hahaha What would you like people to know about you? I’m just a regular person trying to be on the right path and I sing quite well too. They can check me out on facebook.com/ clondonmusic, Twitter - @clondonmusic, reverbnation.com/ clondonmusic and my first single is available for download on iTunes and all other good online stores just type in Cassandra London and you can purchase it, my second single is available for download on Stingray stores just type in Cassandra London and poof!

Young People

MUSICAL SPECIALS @ Cornell Campbell meets The Soothsayers Fri 21 Feb, 9pm Tickets: £13 (£10) £15 OTD

US Embassy London and The Drum present

The Drum and Gatecrash Promotions presents

Up Close with Mary Wilson of the Supremes

Legends of Legends 2014

Tue 25 Feb, 7pm Tickets: £12 (£10)

Sat 15 Mar, 10pm Tickets: Advance £20, MOTD

THE UK’S PREMIER INTERCULTURAL ARTS CENTRE www.the-drum.org.uk 0121 333 2444

The Phoenix – February 2014

ENTERTAINMENT

The Cosmopolitan Cutting Edge Entertainment Magazine

Stars wow on

hen the curtain is raised on the night of a live performance, so is the bar. Years of preparation and an unrivalled dedication were showcased to an expectant audience. The greatest dancers hailing from all corners of the globe are witnessed, in awe, by eyes fixed on the beautifully elegant females and the physical strength and prowess of the males. With all that in mind, it was little surprise that when Strictly

BIRMINGHAM O2 ACADEMY

February 01 Bands On The Run 02 Protest The Hero 05 School of Rock & Pop Showcase 06 Killswitch Engage / Trivium 06 We Are The In Crowd 07 CASH 07 The Boxer Rebellion 07 Dapper Laughs @ Propaganda 08 Less Than Jake & Reel Big Fish 11 Foals 12 The 1975 13 Kerrang! Tour 2014 14 A Day To Remember 14 Propaganda 15 Hidden Skies 16 London Grammar 18 Alexander Morain 19 Red Method 20 Martin Walkyier’s Viking Funeral 2013 20 Newton Faulkner 21 Propaganda 21 Catapult Club 22 Rizzle Kicks 22 M.A.D 22 Beneath The Remains 23 Reconnected 25 Soulfly 26 Room 94 27 Reverend and the Makers 27 Rock Sound Impericon Exposure Tour 2014 27 Catapult Club 28 The Dear Hunter & Anthony Green 28 Propaganda 28 Catapult Club

Come Dancing kicked off their tenth live tour in Birmingham, Mark Benton received the biggest cheer! Now in its tenth year, strictly’s unrivalled success has grasped the hearts of an audience, who have ensured the Ballroom buoyancy has now surely become a global phenomenon. Up for yet another National Television Award, the BBC’s show stopper isn’t showing any signs of taking its foot off the pedal; The Phoenix was ever present to witness the tour’s

BIRMINGHAM INSTITUTE

February 01 The Time Machine 02 Sepultura + Primitai 08 Dapper Laughs 10 Anna Calvi + Woman’s Hour 11 Little Comets + Catfish & The Bottlemen 13 Heather Peace 14 Tich + Mike Dignam 15 Shadow Demon Valentines Ball 16 The Strypes 19 Twenty One Pilots 19 Sweet Gum Tree 20 Orla Gartland 21 Sonic Boom Six + Rat Attack 22 Taking Hayley – Farewell UK Tour 23 NIPSEY HUSSLE 25 Foxes 26 Gavin Degraw 26 THE GRAVELTONES +THE CADILLAC THREE + BUFFALO SUMMER 27 Bonobo 28 Sam Smith + Josh Record

LG ARENA

February 23-24 Beyoncé

TOWN HALL

February 02 Rising Stars: Juliette Bausor and Alisdair Beatson 02 The Classic Rock Show 03 Lunchtime Organ Concert: Thomas Trotter 03 Suzanne Vega 05 The Great Big Dance Off (West Midlands Heat) 06 Handel’s Theodora

opening extravaganza. First arrived the dancers, dressed to impress and with moves that befit the name Jagger, their tireless energy shone through. True to the television series, then came the presenter Lisa Reilly; last year’s dark horse and family favourite. Reilly was keen to boast her joy at being invited back this year to present. “It really is wonderful to be here Birmingham, and I just know we have a

07 The Straits in Concert 08 Kraftwerk Uncovered - Live 13 Hagley School - The Music of Abba 14 Heaven 17 17 Lunchtime Organ Concert: Thomas Trotter - All the President’s Men 20 Carl Palmer Band performs Emerson, Lake and Palmer 21 2014 BANFF Mountain Film Festival World Film Tour 22 Ingrid Fliter: Chopin Birthday Concert 23 Mahler’s Third Symphony 24 Town Hall Tour 25 Pavel Haas Quartet plays Brahms 26 Classical Masterpieces 26 Punt & Dennis 28 Beth Nielsen Chapman

SYMPHONY HALL

February 05 CBSO Ultimate Vaughan Williams 06 Folk for Free: Boat to Row 06 Transatlantic Sessions 07 Jazzlines Free Gigs: Jonathan Silk Quintet 07 CBSO Gilbert and Sullivan Gala 08 Mid-day Mantra: flux 08-09 Anton Du Beke: Ballroom to Broadway 09 CBSO Singalong with the CBSO - Singers Tickets 09 Singalong with the CBSO: Carmina Burana - Audience Tickets 10 Music Mark West Midlands Singing Consortium 11 Irving Berlin: From Rags to Ritzes

Page 17

the dancefloor show f o r you!” Then, just before the contestants themselves, the judges! Len Goodman, Bruno Tonioli and Craig Revel Horwood full of expectancy and whit, wide smiles and raised eye brows. The three men throughout were never short in expressing, in many cases, their overwhelmed praise but in some, their outright disdain. Despite the judges sharpened knives, little deterred the spirit

13 Symphony Hall Tour 13 CBSO Mendelssohn in Birmingham: Hymn of Praise 14 Jazzlines Free Gigs: Steve Ajao Jazz Quartet 14 Love Classics 15 Musical Picnic: Sara Colman and Friends 17 Kodo 19 CBSO Mozart and Elgar 19 Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain: A Fistful of Ukuleles 20 Beyond Classical: Havid Duo 21 Jazzlines Free Gigs: Ric Yarborough Trio 21 Shane Filan 22 Gala opening concert of the Anglo-Russian Year of Cultural Exchange 2014 23 CBSO Youth Orchestra 25 Ultimate Rhythm & Blues 26 CBSO Mozart’s Gran Partita 27 Folk for Free: Abie’s Miracle Tonic 27 Richard & Adam : The Impossible Dream 28 Jazzlines Free Gigs: REALMS 28 CBSO Songs for Swingin’ Orchestra

of this year’s dancers in ensuring their partners success. First on, Deborah Meaden and the ever impressive RobinWindsor who waltzed and whirled their way across the stage. They notched a respectable seven and eight, yet falling at the first hurdle, Revel Horwood, who awarded a lowly four! Then, well of course it had to be televisions very own Mr Funny Mark Benton and the irrepressibly beautiful Iveta Lukosiute. They burst onto the stage with a tribute rich in South Ameri-

20-22 Pool & Spa Expo 23-25 PRINTWEAR & PROMOTION LIVE 26-27 Packaging Innovations 27-28 The UK CONCRETE Show 28-02 The National Wedding Show 28-01 Dentistry & Dental Showcase

NIA

February 02 TNA Impact Wrestling 08-09 Midland Counties Indoor Track and Field Championships including U13 Quadrathlon 15 Sainsbury’s Indoor Grand Prix 16 Birmingham Games Open

CIVIC/WULFRUN WOLVERHAMPTON

February 01 Blast Off Clubnight (Civic Hall)

NEC

February 02-06 Spring Fair International 09 Toy Collectors’ Fair 11-13 The ACR Show 14-15 National Franchise Exhibition 16-18 Moda 16-18 BETA INTERNATIONAL 16-18 Craft Hobby & Stitch 18-23 Caravan & Camping Show 2014

l Beyoncé at the LG Arena

can flavour and modern dance. Or at least, that’s how they justified their moves to the judges with Iveta stating; ‘We’re just too ahead of our time, trust me, in years to come people will all be dancing like this!” Despite the judge’s comments, the strictly debutant amassed huge applause when he ripped off his multi-coloured shirt at the end of his opening dance. Read the full article in the January edition of Street Cred Magazine!

Words by Jonathan Maley

01 VIP Record Fair (Civic Hall) 02 Vintage Fair (Wulfrun Hall) 06 Del Amitri (Civic Hall) 08 Blast Off Clubnight (Wulfrun Hall) 09 Tom Odell (Civic Hall) 11 Jimeoin (Wulfrun Hall) 12 Jack Whitehall (Civic Hall) 14 Monster Magnet (Wulfrun Hall) 15 An Evening With Dream Theater (Civic Hall) 15 Blast Off Clubnight (Wulfrun Hall) 21 Gipsy Kings (Civic Hall) 21 Midlake (Wulfrun Hall) 22 Ed Byrne (Civic Hall) 22 The Twang (Wulfrun Hall) 22 Blast Off Clubnight (Wulfrun Hall) 25 Rudimental (Civic Hall) 28 Organ Concert - David Redfern (Civic Hall)

SLADE ROOMS, WOLVERHAMPTON

February 01 Kirvana 02 Battle Of The Bands - 1st Quarter Final 07 Laugh Out Loud - Steve Harris 08 The Treatment 09 Battle Of The Bands - 2nd Quarter Final 15 Ovation presents Upon Descent 16 Battle Of The Bands - 3rd Quarter Final 18 Turisas 20 Gary Delaney 23 Battle Of The Bands - 4th Quarter Final 28 Richard Herring - We’re All Going To Die!

The Phoenix - February 2014

Page 18

ENTERTAINMENT

The Cosmopolitan Cutting Edge Entertainment Magazine

words: mark dwayne.

oung people in Birmingham are doing so many positive activities especially on the music side of things. Here we have a young ambassador for The Princes Trust by the name of Adam Ambitious Nightingale who has successfully ran his own recording studio in Birmingham since 2006. At only 28 Ambitious is seen as the no1 studio and engineer for the urban scene and very popular for producing a wide range of R&B, hiphop, Pop, Funky house, Grime and rock music. Adam realised his musical gift at tender age of 14 and knew that this was exactly what he wanted to do. He studied Music technology at Matthew Boulton College then set up his own home studio to then run a professional recording studio in the Works art Gallery Complex in City Centre Birmingham. Many celebrities have passed through and worked with Adam such as Sway, Terry Walker, Usg, Platinum and K Koke. 'I was known as a DJ, Guitarist and garage MC but by building my own studio I was able to do everything I wanted to do and more but my main aim is to help artists create great music.' Adam Ambitious is very passionate about working with young people and does various youth projects, a lot who have behaviour problems. Adam says 'i want to let people relax in a friendly environment and come out with a great product, I don’t like to pressure

people as that sometimes this can come out in the music, people come here because we are friendly and helpful but i do put pressure on when needed [laughs] Adam says that the music business can be competitive and of course the social climate we are in makes it more difficult but he says

that he runs his studio steady and people come back to him because it is at affordable price . Not many studios work at Adam’s speed and have an ear for all types of genres, help to write, engineer and master the track. It is pretty much an amazing skill for one guy. Ambitious says he calls the studio that name for many reasons, being that he wants himself to grow as well as the people who work with him. If you know Adam he really is a nice guy and easy to get along with and you really don’t find that in many recording studios, a lot can be too tense and scary

but with Adam you get a cool welcoming atmosphere. Alongside the studios, adam launched his own online TV show where artists could showcase themselves and of course it was a visual opportunity to see the many acts that he has produced in the country. His vision is big and would like to be known as well as the producers who inspired him as a young man such as Teddy Riley, Pharrell, Quincy Jones and Judge Dreddie. It hasn’t been the easiest road for Ambitious recordings as he set up the business on his own and had to make it work for himself. In the early stages of building the studio sadly his equipment was robbed and was very hard to build himself back being that this business was all he relied on for income. This setback didn’t stop him from wanting to do music for the community in fact it made him more ambitious. 'I am an easy going guy' Adam smiles 'when i started this as kid it just felt right and I know this is what I need to do. Along the journey there have been more positive than negative. I have met many great artists and had massive opportunities and every year I’m growing from strength to strength' To book time with Adam Contact: 07411006732 ambitiousrecordingstudio.com/ @ambitiousmusic Adam is currently looking for great artist/singers to work with and develop.

You may have to revise a project during the first week of February, when Mercury goes retrograde. Don't make any permanent changes yet, as the powers that be haven't decided what the finished product should look like. It won't be possible to attend an expensive social event toward mid-month, due to budget constraints. You can have fun without spending lots of money. Valentine's Day will be quite romantic, but beware of pushing things on the sexual front with someone new. You'll have a fantastic relationship breakthrough in the second half of February, when you and your partner will work together to meet a mutual goal. Pay careful attention to your dreams during the third week of February, as they could inspire a successful creative endeavour. Don't buy into a relative's get rich quick schemes at the end of the month. Keep your hard earned cash safe in the bank, where it might earn a little interest.

Yo in e chan emergency. Tr Work takes month. Late n let your family on Valentine’s You need to work assignme chance to shin donate time, m Don’t make or you could tu tive as possibl month.

Don’t sign any contracts this month, as Mercury retrograde will complicate all formal agreements. If you commit to an arrangement, it will cost you more time and money than you imagined. It’s better to keep things informal at this stage of the game. Mixing romance with finance isn’t the best of ideas this February, either. Keep your money separate from that of your lover, or an angry power struggle will ensue. Valentine’s Day will bring an ethical question to the forefront. You need to decide whether you can maintain a partnership with someone whose values are different from yours. If the two of you can reach a compromise, your relationship will fare much better during the second half of February. Ask a teacher, community leader, or spiritual guide to write you a letter of recommendation in late February. Don’t press your luck with an authority figure toward the end of the month.

G coun crea tant Have a seriou during the sec frustrating if y tic partner. It’s probably relatives. Exci move forward dend will arriv a glamorous tr Someone wi month, hoping break the rules

You could get put on a waiting list or even rejected from a social, cultural, or educational institution. Don’t worry. Nothing is set in stone when Mercury is retrograde. Things will straighten themselves out next month, when the planet of communication goes direct. Finance and romance will not mix in the first half of February; don’t lend or borrow money during this phase. Valentine’s Day may tempt you into steering a friendship into romantic waters. You’re better off keeping things platonic. If you’re looking for love, you could find it while exercising during the second half of February. Sweaty is definitely sexy. A spa treatment will relieve stress toward the end of the month. Treat yourself to a massage, facial, or pedicure. Don’t share personal stories about your best friend or lover during the final days of February. Don’t discuss private matters or raise intimate emotional issues in public. You never know who will be listening.

N cury The beca It will be diffi ily matter. Rela problems. Vale laration of love You’re better ner won’t enjo will be fulfillin chance to mak A tender enc heart with joy. have to work w Grin and bear

Misunderstandings with colleagues will abound, starting in early February. Mercury will be retrograde, causing people to say one thing and do another. Take these discrepancies with a dose of salt. A socially prominent person will disapprove of your decision in the first half of February. You won’t appreciate being judged by someone who has no experience with such matters. Valentine’s Day will be charged with sexual energy. Don’t be surprised when a friend makes a pass at you. Your boss will give you a lucrative work assignment in the second half of February. If you do a good job with this project, you’ll get a raise, promotion, or both. Good news regarding a sibling, cousin or neighbour will be music to your ears as the month draws to a close. Be ready to comfort your best friend or lover during the final days of February, when an authority figure makes an unfair decision.

Jo days to g have these problem week of Febru Nothing you their nasty beh ance between Day. You may You’ll get a gl leader during t You’ll have deavours durin setting work d

Will Smith And Jay Z Team Up For TV Comedy Show

robably the most unlikely double-act, but global superstars, Will Smith and Jay-Z are to team up to make a brand new American sitcom. Together with British DJ-producer, Calvin Harris, are set to make a fictional comedy based

on the world of electro music, set to be called 'Higher,' for the HBO channel in the States. Plans for the show are already well underway, with Hollywood star Smith and hip-hop mogul Jay Z both acting as executive producers alongside Smith's wife Jada Pinkett-Smith.

A HBO spokesperson said: “The show has been bought by HBO and is currently in development with the pilot being penned by critically acclaimed 'Trainspotting' author Irvine Welsh.” HBO is yet to make a commitment to either a pilot or series.

H R M

H t W

h s m

o fi w

The Phoenix – February 2014

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The Cosmopolitan Cutting Edge Entertainment Magazine

You might have to reverse a decision concerning a child early February. Mercury retrograde will force you to nge plans due to altered schedules or an unforeseen ry to be as flexible as possible. a toll on romance during the second week of the nights at the office are a strong possibility. Don’t get y have too much influence on your love life, especially s Day. o be with the person who makes you happy. A plum ent will be handed to you in mid-February; this is your ne. Your reputation will get another boost when you money and resources to a charitable organisation. promises you can’t keep toward the end of February, urn an influential person against you. Be as conservale when giving estimates during the final days of the

Avoid making serious decisions about household matters in early February. Mercury retrograde will cause all sorts of unforeseen circumstances. Feel free to renew a lease, but avoid moving to a permanent residence until March. You won’t be happy with a test result or legal decision; you may have to cut your losses and move on. Resist the urge to put pressure on a prospective partner on Valentine’s Day; it’s best to keep things light and friendly. You’ll start to see exciting movement on the romantic front during the second week of February, when the object of your affection warms to your charms. You’ll assume a more prominent role at work later in the month, when an authority figure delegates an important creative assignment to you. Resist the urge to go over budget. The more frugal you are in later February, the happier everyone will be. Just because other groups are breaking the bank doesn’t mean you need to follow suit.

Go over your credit card statements and checking acnt with a fine toothed comb. Mercury retrograde will ate financial confusion early in the month. An import career decision will affect an intimate relationship. us talk with your best friend, business partner, or lover cond week of February. Valentine’s Day will be fairly you let your family comment on your choice of roman-

y best to keep this aspect of your life a secret from nosy iting news will arrive at mid-month, allowing you to with a partnership venture. A gift, inheritance, or divive in the second half of February, allowing you to take rip. ill tell you a sob story during the last week of the g you will take pity on them. Remain firm and don’t s. This scam artist isn’t worth the trouble.

You’ll be easily misunderstood this February, due to your ruling planet’s retrograde motion. It may be necessary to explain your motives several times. Try not to take all the scepticism personally. If you’re not satisfied with a medical diagnosis, get a second opinion. There may be additional factors that are contributing to a health problem. Valentine’s Day will spark a serious conversation about the future of a relationship. Give careful thought to what kind of partnership you want. Salary negotiations are highly favoured for mid-February; push hard for the high end of the scale. Doing something special for your best friend, business partner, or lover will prove rewarding during the second half of February. You alone will have the power to make a dream come true. A friend will break their promise during the final days of the month. It may be time to decide whether this relationship is worth your while.

Neither a borrower nor a lender be this February. Mery retrograde blurs boundaries and creates confusion. e last thing you need is for a friendship to fall apart ause a cherished item goes missing. ficult to express your feelings about an upsetting famatives aren’t willing to hear the hard truth about health entine’s Day may tempt you into making a grand dece. r off keeping things private and romantic, as your partoy being put on the spot. Working behind the scenes ng during the second half of February. This is your big ke a good impression on an executive. counter during the third week of February will fill your Trust your instincts with regard to lovemaking. You’ll with a temperamental expert at the end of the month. it.

A raise or promotion could be stalled this month thanks to Mercury going retrograde. Put your expectations on hold until March, when the tide will turn in your favour. Your inner critic will prompt you to stay silent in a public forum during the first half of February. Although you hate pretending to go along with a bad plan, it’s probably the best course of action right now. Valentine’s Day could find you debating an ethical matter. Try not to pass judgment on a lover who was raised with very different beliefs from yours. A friend will offer practical help with a repair job in the second half of the month. Accept this assistance with a grateful and happy heart. You could find a wonderful temporary residence toward the end of February. Seek a place near a pond, lake, or river. Someone will try to buy your affection toward the end of the month. Beware.

oint finances will be a source of strain in the opening s of the month. Mercury retrograde will cause people go back on their promises or spend money they don’t e. Try to be patient and calm when working through ms. Your boss will bear down hard during the second uary. u do or say will satisfy their demands. Try not to take haviour personally. It will be difficult to strike a balyour personal and professional lives on Valentine’s have to postpone a romantic evening for another time. lowing recommendation from a teacher or community the third week of the month. a great opportunity to make money from creative enng the final week of the month. Be conservative when deadlines as February turns to March.

You’ll have to revise a partnership arrangement in the early days of February. Mercury retrograde will force you to become as flexible as possible with setting schedule and trading duties. A forbidding teacher will shatter your confidence during the first half of the month. Be kind to yourself during this ultra-sensitive period. You might have to work on Valentine’s Day, but don’t let that derail your love life. Schedule a candlelit dinner the next day, when you’ll be able to devote all your time and attention to your amour. Lovemaking will be passionate and frenzied throughout the second half of the month. Word of your psychic abilities will spread during the third week of February. Don’t mix business with pleasure during the closing days of the month, or you could lose your hard earned money. You shouldn’t have to buy expensive gifts to prove your worth, especially in the early stages of a relationship.

Hit The Road Mack!

ould I Lie To You? and Not Going Out star, Lee Mack is bringing his first live show for four years, Hit The Road Mack, to Wolverhampton Civic Hall on Tuesday 16th and Wednesday 17th December 2014. Fans can expect his trademark brand of high energy banter, well crafted gags and sharp one-liners in what will be one of the most hotly anticipated shows of the year. Tickets are priced £27.50 and are on sale now from Midland Box Office on 0870 320 7000 or online at www.wolvescivic.co.uk.

ENTERTAINMENT

Miss STREET CRED PRESENTS

camara Fearon

Seventeen year old Camara already has an achievement list longer than most people twice or three times her age, but what is next for this months miss street cred?

eventeen years young and Miss Camara Fearon is ready to set the stage alight. At the tender age of nine this edition’s leading light made her stage debut at the little known venue called the Hackney Empire, London. Today, Miss Street Cred is dubbed an award winning multiinstrumentalist… And take it from us this girl is a star in the making. Our very own award winner has blossomed into a beautifully talented teen about to embark on a journey of tour dates and performance … and to think the year has only just begun!

i understand you’re a spirit oF london stateswoman? “If there’s a passion there, we’ll find it and that’s what the Spirit of London Awards are about. We go and mentor different age groups across London and

For someone so young you’re running out oF space in that trophy cabinet? “I know, I started at a really young age and was given the opportunity to perform by the late Tony Lee Fielding His impact on my performance lead to me performing at the Empire, it was incredible!” you’re a busy bee right now aren’t you, what’s it all about? “I do a great deal for youth empowerment and encouraging young, London teenagers to express themselves through music. Many of them come from difficult backgrounds so I think it’s important to find that common ground, which music gives you.”

This month’s miss Street Cred has even been praised from the man at no.10, Downing Street that is. For someone so young, you don’t seem shy oF motivation? “I lost a dear friend through knife crime and sadly that is something many people in London can say has happened. I work with a unit called ‘street Wyze’ who dedicate their time to those in the Dagenham and Barking districts. It is such activities that make the work a reward because you’re not sitting their feeling sorry, you’re out and making a difference.” Juggling a-levels around a busy schedule must be hectic, right? “It is so hectic! But I love it, It’s what I chose to do. I moved secondary school to college at Chigworth, in West Hatch and they’ve been so supportive”

give speeches in schools. We get a terrific response from the community.” Modelling, singing, acting, you name it Camara has turned her hand to it and all in such a short space of time. The stage is her home and her presence is profound. The ‘Hackney hunny’ prodigy isn’t one to be unnerved by meeting celebrity figures either.

so why should we be keeping a close eye on you lady? “Watch this space, I’m working hard to get a single released this summer and other supporting material. It’s all go-go-go and sometimes only a few hours sleep but it’s what I live for!”

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VALENTINES

The Phoenix – February 2014

The Cosmopolitan Cutting Edge Entertainment Magazine

Food

Drink W

hether you’re out on a limb this year or ready to splash the cash, Birmingham has a range of restaurant locations for you to wine and dine this Valentines Day… Feature by Jonathan Maley

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Asha’s

Edmund House 12-22 Newhall Street Birmingham B3 3LX

he fine Indian cuisine restaurant is a based in Birmingham’s financial district and close to an array of exciting bars. The multiple awards winning business hosts the very best in contemporary Indian flavour, topped off with a delightfully filled bar. For you and that special person, Asha’s will be taking bookings now. With a truly original menu designed to spice up your taste buds and set the scene for love, this is somewhere that blends the very best in Birmingham’s cultural offering. For further booking details call 0121 200 2767, or email: reservations@ ashasuk.co.uk

Branded Bull Steakhouse 175 Broad Street, Birmingham, B15 1DT

f you’re looking to ‘moo’ your loved one this Valentine’s, why not treat them to seeing you participate in the Steakhouse challenge? In this challenge participants will have exactly one hour to eat a whole 72 ounce steak including sides… For bookings contact: 0121 643 59 68 or email: info@branded-bull.co.uk

Bar Bodega 12 Bennetts Hill, Birmingham, B2 5RS

ver fancied being lost in a sea of cocktails and to experience the very best in South American gastronomy? Then Bar Bodega is just the ticket. Water down your appetite with a handpicked range of wines sourced from the finest vineyards across the Atlantic and beers seen by those who dare to explore. Located in the hub of Birmingham’s centre and open 7 days a week, Bodega offers an alternative to dining out at a modest price! Bookings 0121 448 4267

Bistro 1847 26 Great Western Arcade, Colmore Row, Birmingham, B2 5HU

ight on the doorstep of the romantic Great Western Arcade, the Victorian inspired restaurant is the ideal destination for vegetarian and vegan eaters alike. A unique 6 course taster menu is available for booking now consisting of anything from cheese and pineapple to caramel popcorn labneh. Course starts at £36, per person For bookings, call: 0121 236 2313

The Phoenix – February 2014

The Cosmopolitan Cutting Edge Entertainment Magazine

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VALENTINES

A room with a view Madame? Street Cred’s Valentine suggestion

oo late for a booking at that special Restaurant and you’ve tried palming your younger brother off to his mates for the evening in an attempt to create that ‘special evening’ , yet nothing seems to be going your way… Street Cred may just have the answer. The Electric Cinema Birmingham is the upcoming venue with bookings coming out of the ticket office’s ears (if it had any!). The former Charleston Picture House still feels and looks like something from a Martin Scorsese’ Blockbuster, with the original Edwardian feature’s recreating a that romantic feel to your evening. Sit back, relax on a Sofa, enjoy a glass

of wine, the Electric offers a whole host of fascinating films from years gone by to the very latest action thriller. Two specially maintained viewing rooms that reflect a bye gone era in style, the staff at the Electric work hard to ensure your experience is one to remember! “We’re not a mainstream cinema, we’re an independent boutique picture house and that means every one of us that works here, simply, loves film!” For cinema bookings or information on upcoming information, Contact Sam@ theelectric.co.uk Or call the box office on 0121 643 7879

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Feeling involved with your partner’s life is the key to long-term happiness

e’ve all sat and watched Mr and Mrs and joked with our half ‘it’s a good job we aren’t answering these questions’. But surely that begs the definitive question; how much do we know about our partner and ultimately, how much are we involved in what they do? Research states time away

from your loved one is healthy for a long term relationship that can flourish and grow. If you are in your dating infancy it would not be wise to invade that special person’s space, yet how refreshing would it be to consider their ambitions and talk with them regarding their hopes. By doing this, an unbreakable level of trust will be built.

Whether we admit it or not, we all look to be involved in people’s lives, especially those we have fallen for. From here evolves an understanding regarding each other. Instead of talking about our day and what we have achieved, it becomes a shared conversation with invitations to find out more from our very own Mr or Mrs.

Becoming a Mary Kay Beauty Consultant will allow you the opportunity to build a business around your lifestyle whilst earning 40% commission on sales. With Mary Kay you can be a part of a company that is dynamic, motivating and successful. Contact me today to discuss the following: Becoming a Mary Kay consultant l Product Purchases & Advice Arranging a Mary Kay Party l Bridal Make Up Packages. Call Mary Sewell on 07834 517 097

The Phoenix – February 2014

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VALENTINES

The Cosmopolitan Cutting Edge Entertainment Magazine

Swan Lake production opens audiences to the meaning of true love

here many writers have strived to recreate their version of a classic to the very last detail, Matthew Bourne, creative director behind this season’s theatre sensation Swan Lake, has chosen a different direction. The message is simple; affection doesn’t always have to be expressed through bold signals or declarations of emotion, but one act or demonstration of understanding can actually be the greatest way to win your partner’s heart. The modern day take on Tchaikovsky's famous ballet delivers a unique performance of a classic tale, shedding new light to something steeped in stage history. This Valentines, it is likely not every word spoken is one of reverence and not every gesture is done in good faith. Yet, just as a Swan’s deafening cry leaves little to be desired on the ear, their iconic symbol remains

one of elegance and beauty. Speaking ahead of the ten day spectacular that will be hosted at Birmingham’s Hippodrome, Bourne breaks down his often misplaced attitude towards love, art and the direction took delivering his writing: “To capture the essence of the swans, I spent hours watching them in parks and on film, reproducing their often ungainly movements in my choreography… Adam Cooper, the Royal Ballet dancer, took a huge gamble in agreeing to play the Swan.” Seemingly, that gamble has paid off. Sell out box offices nationwide and a plethora of interest has built. A not so ungainly

Bridal event to return to NEC this spring

response towards the Russian fairy tale turned famous ballet. For more information on the upcoming shows, visit http://www.birminghamhippodrome.com/whatson_focus. asp?showid=1794 or alternatively call, 0844 338 5000

he National Wedding Show have confirmed an exciting beauty lineup for Spring 2014, with the return of official show partner bareMinerals and debut appearances from Essie and Fudge. Multi-award winning mineral make-up brand bareMinerals will once again return to The National Wedding Show as the headline sponsor this spring, revealing their expert bridal beauty know-how of the

season. Brides can see the stunning looks on the Catwalk and learn how to re-create them at bareMinerals’ Beauty Bar, where they can meet the experts and discover essential products for their wedding day make-up bag. bareMinerals makeup specialists will be sharing their top tips and advice during the Inspiration Sessions, uncovering everything from keeping your skin hydrated and achieving complexion perfection to testing and trialling your make-up and how to make it last all day. Iconic nail brand Essie will make their All you have to do to be in with a chance debut appearance at of winning one of 2 pairs of tickets to The National Wedthe National Wedding Show at any of the ding Show. From venues is answer this simple question: their famous shade Who is the official show ‘Allure’, the nail polpartner for the ish of choice for Kate National Wedding Show? Middleton on her wedding day to ‘Long Stem To be in with a chance of winning, Roses’, the perfect send your answer, along with your red to complement a name, address and contact telephone vintage dress, Essie’s number to range of nail polish competitions@thephoenixnewspaper.com boasts a spectrum of with the subject “National Wedding shades to suit every Show”. Closing date is 14th February. style. Visitors can There is no cash alternative. treat themselves at

COMPETITION

the Nail Bar, where Essie will be offering exclusive show offers and discounts including a complimentary File and Polish with Essie purchases (subject to availability). This season’s team of hairstylists will be led by Cinta Miller, Celebrity Hairdresser and Artistic Director for Fudge, who will create showstopping hairstyles on the Catwalk. bareMinerals, Essie and Fudge will join over 250 exhibitors at The National Wedding Show this Spring. From the largest collection of wedding dresses to an unrivalled host of experts and new features, The National Wedding Show provides brides and grooms nationwide with the ultimate inspiration to plan their big day. Diary Dates - Olympia London 21st -23rd February / NEC Birmingham 28th – 2nd March / Manchester Central 15th-16th March 2014 For more information visit The National Wedding Show website www.nationalweddingshow.co.uk Facebook – www.facebook. com/nationalweddingshow Twitter - @nationalwedding / #TNWS

o first there was the rom-com '27 Dresses.' Now, according to psychologist and relationship expert Martyn Stewart, there are 27 Men and the traits of each one will determine their relationship success. In his new book 'Why Men Really Cheat,' author Martyn addresses the number one relationship killer that has tormented women for centuries. It has even baffled some men about their own behaviour. Following years of research into human relationships, Stewart provides extracts from real interviews and questionnaires with hundreds of men, providing the psychological understanding behind the excuses. "Infidelity is so intertwined in human existence that we have all experienced it in some format at some point; whether personally or by extension," he says. "After writing several studies into relationships during my psychology studies; constantly being the refer-

Why Men Really Cheat: Study Identifies 27 Different Types Of Men ence point for friends and colleagues about their relationship queries and working on several different relationship projects I soon realised that there was one question that continually surfaced: Why do men really cheat?" Gathering information from gyms, barber shops, sports

changing rooms and boys nights out (all male safe havens) Martyn analyses the results and identifies the characteristics of 27 different types of men, including The Opportunist, The Charmer and The Enigma. Revealing for the first time, why men really cheat.

The Phoenix – February 2014

The Cosmopolitan Cutting Edge Entertainment Magazine

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ENTERTAINMENT

Wireless Launch

URBAN REWIND@BEL AIR On Boxing Day we decided to go to Urban Rewind at the Belfry and what a class night. Djs Aycee 3 Style and many more showed you why this is is the Midlands no 1 old skool event. Take a look at the pics!

BEYONCE PRIVATE MASQURADE PARTY Its great to see how the rich and famous get down, here we have exclusive shots of Beyonce at her mates private celeb party where there was no more than 80 guests having a great time just like we would. In attendance was Jay Z solange and Tina Knowles

the midlands Exclusive classics Party is Back...

ith big heavy hitter names on the line up of this year’s Wireless Festival such as Kanye West, Pharrell Williams, Basement Jaxx, Drake, Bruno Mars, Ellie Goulding, Clean Bandit and many more, Wireless Festival is the must see event for 2014! Tickets are on sale, and now, the Wireless Festival has branched out. Not only will the Wireless Festival take place in London, as for the first time in 10 years, Perry Park in Birmingham will play host to these big names. To celebrate the launch of Wireless Festival in Birmingham a launch event at Birmingham O2 Academy on Tuesday 28th January was held, with Spanky from Free radio getting the night started by giving us a taster of who’s on the line up for this year. It’s a line up that’s

sure to make your eyes water. Street Cred attended the launch event and was also entertained by DJ Charlesy on the night. Ella Eyre was a surprise special guest performing at the launch, well known for her hit collaboration with Rudimental, “Waiting All Night”. Rudimental are also on the line up this year along with Ella Eyre. Ella’s performance was electrifying, with stunning vocals and an amazing live band. Ella performed 6 tracks of her debut EP “Deeper”, giving us a taster of her album due out for release this summer, as well as what to expect at the Wireless Festival in July. Steve Homer, Wireless Festival event organiser said he’s been looking to expand Wireless festival for many years, and felt this was the right year to expand, especially with such a huge line up, Birmingham felt like the right place to start ex-

panding. Look out for the interview with Steve Homer. Birmingham and London will host the Wireless Festival from Friday 4th July to Sunday 6th July, don’t miss out!! Words: Mystikle Blue

treet Cred had a quick chat with event organiser of the Wireless Festival, Steve Homer.

Mystikle Blue:Wireless Festival has been going on for 10 years now, and for the first time, Perry Park in Birmingham is now playing host as well as London. What inspired you to make this move? Steve Homer: Well, we’re glad to be here, put it that way. We were looking to expand Wireless for a couple of years now, and we thought this was the right year to do it when the line-up started to come together, and also we’ve been looking at alternative cities. The type of music that’s made Wireless what it is today has always been very big in terms of touring acts in London and Birmingham as the second part of it, so it was always the best place to expand to. MB: When putting your line up together, what is it that you look for in an artist?

thE old skool ValEntinEs Ball

Friday 14th FEB 2014

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ARCADIAN BIRMINGHAM

SH: Well one of the key things about it, is we’re always looking to have a good mix of American acts and UK acts, and they tend to complement each other quite a lot. So there are a couple of obvious names that come to mind almost immediately, acts like Drake, Rhianna, Kanye West, so when we see which of the big names are available in the market, we chase those down first, and then we try and compliment it with acts like Rudimental and Ellie Goulding on the bill which is a little bit poppy. We’ve gone for a more heritage act like Outkast, so we’ve tried to

l Wireless Festival organiser Steve Homer with Mystikle Blue mix it up a bit, so really there’s sponse to our Urban and Hip no hard or fast rule about what Hop acts and so we went more makes a Wireless suitable act. and more into that field and kept We have a very online and so- going till the last couple of years ciable community, and they cer- where we’re now known almost tainly let me know as well which exclusively as an urban festival acts they like. which has proved to be very popular. It’s unique, there isn’t MB: Now Wireless started 10 another festival like it in the UK years ago, what inspired you to and certainly Europe. start it? MB: Have you ever thought of SH: Well when we first started doing a Wireless Unsigned? it, we were looking for a different style in London, a one day SH: Well there’s always an opevent, or an event where you portunity for that, and we will be didn’t have to camp, so even a having a New Act Stage at both series of one day events, and it sites. What we’ll do for that is was based on a more alternative, we’ll look at local acts that are dance based market. suitable from Birmingham as well as London and we’ll make it MB: What inspired you to keep very much a local stage. going? It’s a good opportunity, there’s a lot of acts I’ve worked with SH: We had a number of acts ap- over the years which have been pear over a number of years, we very small acts to start with and saw a growth in it, but it wasn’t have then developed very very until about year four or five, quickly to become major artists. where we started to get more of an identity, and we started to get Tickets are available for sale more of a niche. from Friday 31st January, don’t There was a very good re- miss out!!

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BIG SCREEN

The Cosmopolitan Cutting Edge Entertainment Magazine

BIGScreen 1. 12 Years a Slave This movie tells the true story of Solomon Northup, a free black man in the antebellum United States, who is kidnapped and sold into slavery. 12 Years a Slave is already being hailed as “a game changing movie event” by The Rolling Stone’s Peter Travers and “one of the best films ever made” by Black book’s Daniel Hardy - That alone should excite even the most difficult to please film fans. Release date: 10th January, 2014.

The Phoenix - February 2014

2. The Wolf of Wall Street Legendary filmmaker, Martin Scorsese, returns with this epic, three-hour biography of Jordan Belfort; a wealthy stockbroker living the highlife whose life crumbles in a whirlwind of crime and corruption. Initial reviews for this movie have been absolutely brilliant and let’s face it; Scorsese is one of the most consistently great directors of all time, so I’m sure we’re in for another classic. Release date: 17th January, 2014.

TOP 10 I for 2014

t’s the start of a new year and one of my favourite things to do is to look ahead at what the upcoming 12 months has to offer in terms of film. From hard-hitting dramas to mega-budget blockbusters, here are ten movies to look out for in 2014.

by Antony Brown

Big Screen Journalist

3. The Raid 2 The Raid (2011), an Indonesian action-thriller written and directed by welsh born filmmaker Gareth Evans, is one of the greatest action movies ever made. This year sees the release of the highly antici4. Captain America: The Winter Soldier Marvel are one of the best, most profitable production companies in the world today. In the space of a year, they have made two of the top five highest grossing movies of all time – The Avengers (2013) and Iron Man 3 (2013). Their movies are so consistent

pated sequel and, if the trailer is anything to go by, The Raid 2 looks like it’s going to be even more insane than the original. We’re in for one hell of a ride. Release date: 28th March, 2014 (TBC) that it has reached a stage where I and millions of others are automatically excited by the mere prospect of a new Marvel movie. Captain America: The Winter Soldier looks to continue the companies unbelievable run and comic book fans can rejoice! For The Winter Soldier looks amazing. Release date: 28th March, 2014.

6. Godzilla Plot details are tightly under wraps for this big budget reboot of the Godzilla franchise, so I can’t tell you anything in terms of story. However, a young and hungry director, an amazing cast and a truly breathtaking, visually striking trailer all seem to suggest that we are in for something truly special. Godzilla looks absolutely amazing. Release date: 16th May, 2014. 7. X-Men: Days of Future Past The X-Men send Wolverine back in time in a desperate effort to change history and prevent an incident that results in doom for both humans and mutants. Bryan Singer returns to the franchise he kicked off with this action-packed, time travelling extravaganza that brings together the cast of the original X-Men (2001) and X-Men: First Class (2011) into one huge star-studded cast. This is shaping up to be the superhero movie event of the year. Release date: 22nd May, 2014. 8. Dawn of the Planet of the Apes Rise of the Planet of the Apes was the surprise hit of summer 2011 and has since acquired a large and loyal fan base. This sequel is set eight years after the original, in a postapocalyptic world that has been ravaged by the simian virus where survivors trigger an all out war on

Caesar and his growing forces. A dark and chilling trailer for this movie debuted in late 2013 and it was absolutely mesmerising. It looks a lot darker and more action-packed than the original. Dawn of the Planet of the Apes is shaping up to be the Aliens to Rise of the Planet of the Apes’ Alien. Release date: 17th July, 2014.

5. Transcendence Wally Pfister, Christopher Nolan’s long time Director of Photography, makes his directorial debut with this big budget science fiction movie starring Johnny Depp and Morgan Freeman. Transcendence tells the story of a terminally ill scientist who finds a way to download his mind into a computer, granting himself immortality – but at a cost. He is no longer the same person and, eventually, he becomes more powerful than he could have ever imagined, triggering a race against time to stop him - Intriguing. Release date: 25th April, 2014. 9. Interstellar Christopher Nolan makes his highly anticipated return to the world of cinema with this sci-fi epic that follows a group of explorers who make use of a newly discovered wormhole to surpass the limitations on human space travel and conquer the vast distances involved in an interstellar voyage. Christopher Nolan has never made bad movie. In fact, he has never made anything less than a great movie, so expect big things from this one. Release date: 7th November, 2014.

10. The Hobbit: There and Back Again After the intense cliff-hanger that brought The Desolation of Smaug to a close, it is impossible not to be excited for this one. With the colossal dragon Smaug on the loose and hungry for blood and with war looming, There and Back Again promises to be an immensely epic conclusion to another great trilogy from Peter Jackson - He was born to make these movies. Release date: 19th December, 2014.

The Phoenix – February 2014

he NES cartridge you see on the left looks like something you’d find at a car boot sale and you would just pass over as junk. But not this time. This Nintendo Entertainment System game cartridge is one of 116 copies of the Nintendo World Championships made by Nintendo for a competition, but the game never made it to general sale. Because of this, it is now one of the rarest games money can buy, even with the label missing and someone scribbling “Mario” onto it. The seller mentioned in the listing: “Obviously, you’ll immediately notice the ripped label. This is quite unfortunate but happened many decades ago by this point in time. someone probably wrote on there long ago not having a clue what they actually had. Still, case in point, this is an authentic, original NWC cart from the championship back in the early 90s.” Don’t think

The Cosmopolitan Cutting Edge Entertainment Magazine

GADGETS

because this is old technology that it would be going for cheap though, in recent years copies of this game went for nearly £7,000 apiece and even taking into consideration the condition of this game, that looked sure to be a high seller. As the auction drew to a close, the highest bid was of $99,902 (approximately £60,000) after 328 bids thrown out by 72 bidders over 7 days. Sadly for the seller, it seems that since the auction closed, a large number of the higher bids have been retracted as “mistakes” once they were contacted for payment, and he now has the painstaking task of going through every bidder until he finds one who is honourable enough to stick by their bid.

It may not look like much...

HP to offer Windows 7 on new computers after declining sales

he second largest PC maker in the world, HP, have taken the bold step of reintroducing Windows 7 as an option for install on their new computers and laptops. Windows 8 has ultimately proved unpopular, especially with people without a touchcapable device. The Metro layout (left) is very tablet friendly, but with a regular keyboard and mouse, many have found themselves wishing to go back to Windows 7. Putting things in perspective,

Page 25

Windows 8 is only installed on 8.1% of PC’s, with XP on 19.8% and Windows 7 taking the lions share of the market with 54.8%. With PC sales in general on the decline at the moment, this

is a clever move from HP, hoping to bring back customers who were put off by the Windows 8 requirement of their new computers. If you’re one of those 19.8% of PC users that are still on Windows XP, and don’t like the look of either Windows 7 or 8, don’t worry, because there are rumours that Windows 9 could be out as early as this year. What it will bring to the table in terms of design and functionality is anyones guess, but it surely can’t be as big a flop as Windows 8 has been?

Page 26 The Phoenix – February 2014

FOOD

Dairy Giant provide food for thought with 2014 forecast

A Indian Restaurant takes gold at broad street award’s night

irmingham pride was the reason behind Pushkar’s latest award winning performance at the annual BOBS. The fine dining Indian restaurant scooped the ‘best restaurant’ award, at the annual Best of Broad Street Awards, held Sunday 26th January. The nominees are chosen from a host of entertainment and food cuisine destinations, from Hotels, Night Clubs and of course

the coveted Restaurants along Birmingham’s very own ‘Golden Mile’. A glittering occasion now in a ninth year awarded the winners at the Birmingham ICC. A host of business minded men and women along with a host of entrepreneurs engaged in what was a wholly enjoyable event. The Restaurant now famed for its collection of awards, added Best Restaurant to last year’s ‘Best Fine Dining’ accolade. With over twenty categories on offer,

the Indian food experts stifled opposition and dedicated their award to a belief in their location. Pushkar’s Creative Director, Rai Singh, comments: “Once again, the BOBS Awards did not disappoint. Not only did we all have a fantastic evening but we scooped up an award too! We are delighted to be awarded the ‘Best Restaurant’ on Broad Street and we’re proud to represent Broad Street and Birmingham.”

rla, the global diary giant have proposed they will serve an excessive 25 billion glasses of milk in 2014. That’s a staggering, 3.5 glasses of milk for every person on the planet. (If you were still struggling to come to terms with those figures, if one was to line up all of those glasses there would be enough to circle the Earth’s equator 47 times.) The confounding figure which specifically translates to well over 25 trillion units will be sourced from the company’s UHT and milk powder operations located around the world. In According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations, “milk

And the survey says? Midlands up their game in green eating contest

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is one of the most unique foods. Globally, milk and dairy products are considered of high importance in human nutrition, as milk contains numerous nutrients” Arla, whose cooperative is shared by over 13,500 farmers across Europe are hugely endorsed within the UK food market, which made over a quarter of ther last annual turnover. With production facilities in 12 countries and sales offices in a further 30, Arla is the sixth largest dairy company in the world.

egetable shy Midlanders have improved their image in recent years, a new survey has revealed. An improved 11% of those accounted for were eating their greens whereas a tallied 6% weren’t eating any at all in accordance to the British Association for Applied Nutrition Therapy (BANT). Now 10 years on since the campaign was launched, the region has shown signs of improvement when it comes down to negligence in healthy consumption. The nutritional body state although there has been progress, there’s still cause for concern. The intake just some vegetables and a variation of fruit could make for a dramatic reading, next year. Chairman Miguel Toribio-Mateas said: “The message to eat more vegetables is a serious one. Research has shown a correlation between mortality rates and l o w e r con-

sumption of these types of foods. “The consumption of vegetables is particularly important – they help our bodies to gain the nutrients we need to function. The idea that fruit and vegetables are interchangeable is no longer supported by current evidence, with vegetables being much more nutrient-dense than fruit, gram per gram.”

Health Concerns

The bigger picture for our townsfolk is long term deficiencies in much needed nutrients can lead to further health problems. Ethnic minorities within the United Kingdom are reportedly six times more likely to develop heart disease and diabetes. BANTS message therefore reads ‘fruit contains valuable nutrients, but it can be high in sugar, so we have to be careful how much fruit we eat, alas eight pieces o f

fruit and one vegetable portion a day would not be an ideal fruit/ vegetable spread.’ Further research ran by the YouGov lead initiative suggests the East of England is the ‘healthiest’ region, with 13% of those living in East Anglia, Norfolk et al whilst respondents in the North East and South West have the poorest intake, a measly 6% fruit and vegetable intake.

The Phoenix–February 2013

Page 3

NEWS

The Phoenix – February 2014

EDUCATION IN PARTNERSHIP WITH -

Hereward College students team up with The Phoenix Newspaper

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“

AND

Page 27

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

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

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

”

About us

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

College Address:

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

Local recruiters should resist ‘natural urge’ to hire people just like them says Law Society

T State, or Academy - Which is best?

l Education Secretary Michael Gove

n the wake of its rapid expansion, according to of Ofsted inspections, schools in England which opted to become academies have improved more quickly than those staying as local authority schools. The Department for Education has published a report on how so-called "converter" academies have performed after their change of status. The report looks at the performance of such converter academies, many of which would have been higher-attaining schools before changing status. This analysis looked at what happened to inspection results in 2012-13 in which academies are now becoming England's most common form of secondary school. Among England's state sector secondary schools, 56% are now academies. Among primary schools, 11% have academy status.

Launched in 2002, academies are state-funded and non-fee charging, but have greater autonomy, such as not having to follow the national curriculum. A largest number are more than 2,500 converter academies, which opted to become free-standing, directly funded state schools, outside of local authority control. Education Secretary Michael Gove said: "The report shows that academies are doing much better than local authority schools. It lets teachers get on with the job, free from bureaucratic interference and are raising standards, giving more parents the choice of a great local state school." A Labour spokesman said: 'It is not the legal status of a school that matters most, it's the quality of the teaching in the classroom." Whether State or Academy, the choice is yours.

hose responsible for recruitment in the legal profession should resist the urge to recruit only in their own image, says the Law Society. Recruiting from the old school tie network or a limited range of universities makes it hard for many talented people to enter or progress in the legal sector. While the diversity of legal talent in the profession is increasing every year, this is not reflected in the those who become partners or leaders of law firms, where women, who make up half the solicitors profession, represent less than one third of partners. Meanwhile, nearly 12% of solic-

itors are from an ethnic minority background, but make up only 6% of partners. In response to this, the Law Society has produced a guide for firms that want to improve procedures. Diversity and inclusion in law firms- the business case, focuses on small firms as well as the wider profession and offers clarity as to why it makes economic sense to have a diverse workplace. Law Society Chief Executive Desmond Hudson says: “There is a natural tendency to recruit in our own image- but this attitude builds barriers to many talented people gaining entry or progressing their careers in the legal sec-

tor. In order for a firm to keep up with the competitive market, it needs to demonstrate an inclusive workplace and robust diversity and equality policies. “Law firms that have good diversity and inclusion practices will have a competitive advantage in the long-term over those that do not.” With the demographics of the UK changing rapidly, diversity is essential for law firms wanting to attract the best people and meet clients’ needs. In addition, corporate clients are increasingly looking to ensure their panel law firms match their values and commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Wolverhampton school’s results top of the class for Black Country region

econdary schools in Wolverhampton are celebrating better GCSE and A-Level scores than their Black Country competitors, recent results have shown. The announcement comes from the national ranking for the performance of schools, (NRPS). The figures revealed a marked improvement in both GCSE especially, with pupils attaining at least five passes of A*-C grade, which include English and Maths at a figure of over 60 per cent. Wolverhampton had made significant improvements in 2013 compared with the year before. The good news for the City is that despite stiff competition from Sandwell and Birmingham Schools, competing regions averaged fewer pass marks, despite also beating the national average of 59 per cent. Wolverhampton as a result, has

leapt in the national league table from 201nd out of 151 local authorities, to 71st for the year of 2013. Further delight for the City came in the form of the accounted A-level summary. The regions schools have seen a marked

l Councillor Phil Page

improvement on the year 2012 where they were placed 84th out of 151; Wolverhampton’s results have since climbed to 39th. Councillor Phil Page, Wolverhampton City Council’s Cabinet Member for Schools, Skills and Learning, said: “This is wonderful news and a testament to the hard work of all schools staff and the pupils themselves. We are keen to ensure children and young people leave school with the relevant qualifications to enable them to go on to further education, training or employment.” The main focus for improvement lay in the performance at Key Stage 4 and Post-16 level in the city’s schools. Councillor Page concluded: “But we are not complacent and we are always striving to keep on making improvements and climbing the ranking table in future years.”

Desmond Hudson added: “We know, from direct experience as well as through extensive research, that if a firm has a good reputation for equality and fairness, it is more likely to attract good calibre candidates from diverse backgrounds when recruiting. “And with the ever expanding international market, it makes sense for law firms to have a wide understanding of language, cultural and religious influences. “The Law Society has a dedicated equality and inclusion team who are on hand to assist our members with any questions they have about progress in this area.”

Have you got any educational stories that you would like to see featured, or are you looking to advertise your institution in a vibrant multicultural newspaper reaching over 400,000 readers? The Phoenix is the perfect platform for showcasing local events, and the ideal way for your company to reach out to every community across our cities. Send your information to newsdesk@ thephoenixnewspaper.com or advertising@ thephoenixnewspaper.com

The Phoenix–February 2013

Page 3

NEWS

Page 28 The Phoenix - February 2014

EDUCATION IN PARTNERSHIP WITH -

Hereward College students team up with The Phoenix Newspaper

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

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

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

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

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

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

A community united as College “ reflects on the Holocaust

AND

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

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

elebrating unity was the message when Walsall students paid homage towards the millions of lives lost in a special Memorial Day. The ceremony, held at Walsall College on Monday 27th January, addressed all those who tragically lost their lives during the Holocaust.

”

About us

A message of wellbeing was sung aloud after some poignant reflection by those present at the service. Of those present, was Town Mayor Councillor Mohammad Nazir. A message of ‘journeys’ unravelled throughout the ceremony which was fittingly shared between a host of guest speakers and students in the College’s

Wisemore Campus. Four Public Services students cited the famous Martin Niemoller poem ‘First They Came…’ to the audience. Further representatives came from all corners of the community. Birmingham-based Rabbi Arkush was in attendance to witness a ceremony filled with Sikh, Christian, Hundu and l

College Address:

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

Deputy Mayor of Walsall, Councillor Graham Wilkes with members of Walsall Multifaith Forum

Muslim practitioners. Gail Houghton, Student Finance and Support Co-ordinator at Walsall College, said: “Holocaust Memorial Day enables us to raise awareness of the process of genocide and remember past atrocities. Events like this are really important so students are encouraged to take an active role in speaking out if they know something is wrong in the community. It also shows the solidarity that now exits in the Walsall community between the different faith groups.” Valerie Morris, who helped to

organise the event, said: “I wanted to extend the idea of journeys to include each one of us. Our lives are journeys and I feel so privileged to live in Walsall where my life journey is enriched by the vibrant cultural and religious diversity which I can embrace every day.” As well as students, the community also gathered to reflect on the historic day. Councillor Nazir received signatures which had been collected all week to sign a new ‘respect pledge’, an initiative procured by the Walsall Multi Faith Forum. Student Governor for Equality and Di-

versity Officer Bradley Hesom handed over the pledge to Councillor Nazir. Councillor Mohammad Nazir concluded: “One of my pledges when I first came into office was to promote ‘unity in the community’ which means we stand shoulder to shoulder with people and have tolerance for everyone. I am privileged to promote unity in the community here today because together we can make the place safer and stronger for all of us.”

Educating our future the IDEAL way

lready established as one of the UK's most established and respected Sound Systems, Wassifa Showcase is equally famed for using music as a basis to uplift, motivate and empower communities around the world. Fronted by founder Mykal “Wassifa” Brown, since its foundation, in Birmingham, in 1972, it has been at the forefront in engaging vulnerable, disengaged communities back into education/chosen careers. "We are not just a sound system," he says “We are the knights of the turntable. Wassifa means; IDEAL (Innovation, Development, Education, Arts, and Leisure)." Brown, Assistant Director at South & City College Birmingham, has always engaged the college and the Sound System in uplifting the lives of children and young people, sponsoring and undertaking events for the better good. In its collaboration, Wassifa, synonymous for performing in major venues around the world, was part of the team, from the college, who supported the '7inSeven Challange,' a series of cycling related initiatives, including cycling through seven cities, from Zurich to Birmingham, in seven countries, in seven days, to raise monies for the Harry Moseley Charity 'Harry Training Hub,' when staff, including col-

l Anfield to Albion walk lege Principal, Mike Hopkins, the venture through film and and students played their parts in camera. Not only does it help contributing to the 77,777-mile others in the community, but it target. gives students the excellent opAs part of this year's Birming- portunity to put their skills to the ham's Caribbean Food Festival, test in a real work situation. in June, the Wassifa/SCCB colFor creating a better future for laboration also launched the children and young people, just 'Soul Kitchen,' an initiative for think Mykal, SCCB and Wassifa inspiring young chefs to write Sound System. The IDEAL comsongs, with help from UB40 star, bination. Astro, an accomplished cook himself, to go with their culinary achievements. The final heat takes place in April, with the winners being announced at the festival in June. They also supported the The Albion Foundation's charity event in which five blind footballers walked 86 miles in the 'Walk The Albion Way' taking on the challenging task of walking from the Anfield Stadium, in Liverpool, to West Broms' Hawthorns in five daysfrom January 27 Feb 2, the day Albion faced Liverpool at home. The college provided a team of media students and staff who document l 7inSeven Challenge

The Phoenix – February 2014

Page 29

ADOPTION AND FOSTERING

ith a national shortage of Foster carers across the UK, there are more children than ever who need a caring and loving environment, which every child has the right to experience. Whether a crisis in the family, illness or relationship difficulties could be some of the reasons

why a child is placed in care. There are already so many fantastic individuals who foster and adopt children into their families- but we need more ! At the Phoenix, all of our team are committed to raising awareness of fostering and adoption through our campaign not just for the month of May, but for an entire 12 months!

We will be highlighting the inspiring work of current carers, the extensive support and training that is available and the difference that you could be making in a young persons’ life. If you feel that you can offer this, or even if you would like to find out a little bit more – don’t hesitate! It could make the greatest difference to a child’s life.

With support from

Adoption & Fostering Our ongoing campaign to help the children in need in our communities

Search for new adopters and foster carers

anruary saw the launch of ‘Little Moments,’ a new campaign by Birmingham City Council’s Adoption & Fostering Recruitment Team to help place the 177 children currently waiting to be adopted. Centred around the magic moments that children create – from a hug before bedtime to making mischief at tea time – the aim is to attract new adopters to help place children that are being looked after by Birmingham City Council. In recent years, the UK has seen a decrease in the number of people enquiring into adoption and fostering. However, Birmingham City Council has achieved record levels of recruitment for fostering in both 2011/12 and 2012/13 financial years, following initiatives like ‘Time to Care’ and events like ‘Fostering Fiesta.’ They have now launched ‘Little Moments’ with the hope of seeing similar success with adoption. With many people discourgaed by myths surrounding who is eligible to adopt, this

campaign will help to educate people that may be interested in taking on a child, or children, from Birmingham. Anyone over the age of 21 may be eligible to adopt, and the service will consider single parents, unmarried and married couples, whether same sex or opposite sex. The Adoption & Fostering l Recruitment Team looks for people of good health – although there is no age limit – that can provide a loving home for a child. However, people can be employed or unemployed and in rented or owned accommodation. Added to this, any religious background is accepted. Councillor Brigid Jones, Cabinet Member for Children and Family Services at Birmingham City Council, said: “The Adoption & Fostering Recruitment Team has welcomed great success in fostering over the past few years, signing up a record number of dedicated foster carers who are now providing children with a loving home and brighter future. We want to continue this success and ‘Little

Councillor Brigid Jones

Moments’ helps us to show potential parents those magic moments that children create, whilst also educating people that far more people can apply than probably realise. We know that this can be a very daunting process but we want people to see just how much difference they can make to a child’s life, as well as their own." ‘Little Moments’ will see a TV advertising campaign across ITV Central West from 20 January-2 February and 24 February-2 March, during high viewer shows like Loose Women, Emmerdale and Coronation Street.

LGBT Adoption 2 014 is our 34th year of supporting, advising and campaigning for better outcomes for children in care. We work with everyone involved with adoption and fostering across the UK. We know that lesbians and gay men can and do provide positive parenting and a warm, nurturing family environment, together with the security and love children need. In recent years we have worked hard to recruit LGBT adopters and foster carers, including being a partner in the firstever LGBT Adoption & Fostering Week. We also publish a range of books and guides aimed at the community, and have a regular stand at the Alternative Families show in London. BAAF Director, Alan Wood says: “This vital work has included work with government; local authorities, voluntary agencies and those interested in fostering and adoption. One central theme has been to work with all these stakeholders in terms of dispelling myths that exist about who can and who cannot foster or adopt. Together with our work in the LGBT arena, we cover: Family finding: BAAF’s family finding

services cover the whole of the UK and specialise in finding parents for those children who wait longest.

Services

This includes sibling groups, older children, children with disabilities and black and minority ethnic children. Together, our services help agencies find hundreds of adoptive and permanent foster families for children every year.

Our family finding services include: Be My Parent, Adoption Register, Scotland's Adoption Register, Adoption Regional Information System Northern Ireland (ARIS), and South Wales Adoption Agencies Consortium (SWAAC). Publications: We publish an extensive list of highly respected expert publications for social workers, adoptive parents, foster carers, children, adopted adults, students and academics, and the wider children’s workforce, covering a range of issues relating to adoption, fostering and children

in the care system. We also publish the UK’s only journal dedicated to adoption and fostering issues. Training, conferences and consultancy: Our training, seminars and conferences tackle the vital issues facing practitioners today and our courses and programmes are available nationwide. Our consultants carry out expert independent assessments of local authority adoption and fostering services and are regularly asked for advice on complex cases. Campaigning: We campaign nationally and locally to improve the lives of children separated from their birth families. Our flagship campaign is National Adoption Week, which runs in November every year. Membership: we are the UK's leading membership organisation for agencies and individuals that have an interest in fostering, adoption and the well-being of children. Advice: Every day our members ask BAAF for expert guidance to support their work. We also receive thousands of calls each year from people who need advice about all aspects of adoption and fostering. For more information visit www.baaf.org.uk

The Phoenix – February 2014

Page 30

OVERSEAS NEWS

Palm Springs’ eclectic style is famous for its futuristic buildings of steel, glass and concrete, with open plan designs that embrace the desert landscape. In the past, many of the mid-century modern retreats were owned or rented by 20th-century stars, including the likes of Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis and Elvis Presley, and today these legendary homes can be enjoyed by families and friends seeking a truly unique experience. Much more than just a place to stay, these buildings are true works of art and many have fascinating stories to tell. One iconic building is the Elvis and Priscilla Presley honeymoon home, where the King carried his bride over the threshold as he sang a Hawaiian love song.

Palm Springs Celebrates Mid-Century Modern Design

he Californian city of Palm Springs will be throwing open its mid-century modern doors this month, offering an exciting 11-day schedule of films, parties, talks and tours during Modernism Week. From February 13-23 design buffs and retro enthusiasts – or simply those looking for a quirky holiday experience – can celebrate one of the largest concentrations of mid-century modern architecture in the United States and immerse themselves in modern-day history in a city like no-

where else. A distinctly retro celebration with more than 100 events including architectural design tours and swanky cocktail parties in cool desert modernist homes, Modernism Week pays tribute to the outstanding design, architecture and culture developed during the mid-century modern era in Palm Springs. It is a wonderful time to visit for a unique blast from the past, stepping out of the 21st century and straight into a bygone era with interiors and exteriors preserved just as they were.

Architecture

The new-found interest in desert modernism can be seen everywhere in Palm Springs, from the martini pool parties hosted in hip new hotels to the curvaceous and boldly-coloured 1950s furniture on display at the fabulous interior design boutiques of the

Uptown Design District. Many of Palm Springs’ boutique hotels are mid-century classics and these retro retreats are quite the attraction for visitors looking to experience desert modernism. Mostly built between the 1940s and 1960s, properties such as the Del Marcos Hotel and Palm Springs Rendezvous boast a distinctive architectural design, hip furnishings, lush landscapes and sparkling pools. Mary Jo Ginther, Director of the Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism, says “Our quirky Californian city is packed with the most amazing architectural highlights. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of architectural modernism, curious at what lies behind the doors that once housed famous inhabitants, or just keen to find out more about the fascinating history of 20th-century America, there’s no better event than Modernism Week – and no better place than Palm Springs.” In 2006 the National Trust for Historic Preservation named Palm Springs, California as one of America’s Dozen Distinctive Destinations, an annual list of unique and lovingly preserved communities in the country. In 2009 Palm Springs was designated a Preserve America City.

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The Phoenix - February 2014

Page 31

TRAVEL

olidays are on the forefront of our minds this winter, that’s in accordance to new research conducted by TSB Avios, the credit card holder. 29 per cent of us have booked a Holiday already, with 19 percent looking to have booked by the end of January. Whether it’s through a desire to banish January blues or a case of ‘something to look forward to after Christmas’, a whopping 27 per cent, with a fifth at 19

per cent intend to jet off overseas as soon as February. A recorded 76 per cent accounted for have stated the importance of booking fast. Jatin Patel, Credit Cards Director, TSB says: “Holidaying abroad this year doesn’t need to be a financial burden. For people booking their holidays so soon after Christmas our Avios Credit Card could help to ease the pressure, customers can make the most of the Avios points they

City breaks top winter wish list for UK Holiday makers Qatar Airline awarded global take off

atar Airways swept up the silver wear at this year’s UK Business Travel Awards, London, taking home ‘Business Airline of the Year’ as well as ‘Best LongHaul Airline’. The hugely acclaimed titles come just twelve months after being acknowledged for an excellent long-haul service. One year on, the worldwide airline provider are celebrating a double. The 19th annual ceremony paid homage to a surfeit of Business representatives with over a thousand personnel invited. The event organised by Buying Business Travel celebrated the achievement and entrepreneurial spirit of leading airlines. The gala event is widely considered as one of the highlights of the business travel calendar. Paul Johannes, Vice President Commercial North, South and

Western Europe, said; “We are delighted to have been recognised in two categories for our high-quality product and business class offering at these prestigious awards. It is an honour to win two award categories against such strong competition…This award reiterates Qatar Airways’ commitment to providing excellent customer service and prominence as one of the world’s leading airlines for

business travellers”. In attendance to witness the awards, were British stand-up comedian Omid Djalili, who added a touch of fun to the glitzy occasion. Further commercial advocates for the airline were also present, with Corporate Sales Manager UK & Ireland Emma Deering and Senior Vice President Diners Club International UK & Ireland John O'Hagan. Qatar Airways has enjoyed great success in the seventeen years it has operated. Recently named Best Business class at the Business Traveller UK Awards and Best Middle East Airline by readers of Business Traveller Asia-Pacific, it would appear the awards are showing no sign of stopping. The airline is currently flying a modern fleet of 129 aircraft to 134 key business and leisure destinations across Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific and The Americas.

earned over Christmas to pay towards a holiday of their choice.” Many of Europe’s best known capitals are first choice for early winter breaks. Paris, Barcelona, New York and Rome make the wish list selected for 2014, with City breaks appearing the most popular escape. In contrast, TSB Avios data shows the top holiday destinations in 2013 were Amsterdam, New York and Costa del Sol.

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MOTORS

The Phoenix – February 2014

Motorpoint lauches Same Day Driveaway Service

Jaguar and Land Rover both winners in the 2014 BusinessCar Awards

est Midlands based Jaguar and Land Rover both emerged winners from the 2014 BusinessCar Awards. The Jaguar XF maintained its Executive Car of the Year title for the third year running, solidifying its superb reputation among fleet operators and business motorists, the people whose informed opinions decide the annual awards.

Paul Barker, BusinessCar Editor, said: “The Jaguar XF is a car that’s constantly evolving to become more and more relevant to the fleet community, and that’s reflected in its hat-trick of BusinessCar Executive Car of the Year awards. The Range Rover Sport secured the Large 4x4 of the Year award after what has been a remarkable first six months for this secondgeneration model. Paul Barker remarked: “The

Range Rover Sport has stepped up to become BusinessCar’s Large 4x4 of the Year for the first time and its impressive quality, driving experience and prestige are all factors in the car’s success. Jeremy Hicks, Managing Director Jaguar Land Rover UK, said: “We’re very grateful to BusinessCar and the motorists and fleet professional across the country who have honoured the Jaguar XF and Range Rover

Sport. It is reflective of our increasing focus on the fleet market in our product strategy.” “Our development programmes for Jaguar and Land Rover models demonstrate that our use of advanced manufacturing and powertrain technologies is delivering luxury products with strong performance and customer appeal, combined with the lower emissions and fuel economy that today’s motorists – especially in the business arena – require.”

he UK’s leading car supermarket launched the Same Day Driveaway facility in response to demand from customers across the country. All vehicles currently on display at Motorpoint’s seven sites in Birmingham, Burnley, Chingford, Derby, Glasgow, Newport and Peterborough are available for Same Day Driveaway. This new seven day a week service will enable customers to not only drive away in a new car but also agree a part-exchange value on their current car as well as arrange finance at the same time. To take advantage of the facil-

ity customers will be required to bring both parts of their driving licence plus any handbooks and V5 for any part exchange vehicle. Mark Carpenter, Managing Director of Motorpoint, said: “Our Same Day Driveaway service forms part of a concerted campaign by Motorpoint, alongside our current ‘Click and Collect’ facility online, to make owning a new car easier than ever before for our customers.” Last year Motorpoint experienced a 21.5% increase in the total number of new and nearly new cars sold compared with the previous year – saving customers over £230m off list price in the process.

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The Phoenix – February 2014

Page 33

CLASSIFIEDS

Nissan’s Taxi For London To Be Built In Coventry

he new Nissan Taxi for London that is due to hit the streets of the Capital later this year will be assembled by Coventrybased ADV Manufacturing as part of a joint investment of £6 million to build a brand new dedicated taxi manufacturing facility in Coventry. The news was revealed by Andy Palmer, Chief Planning Officer and Executive Vice President of Nissan Motor Coporation while delivering the prestigious Bugatti Lecture on the future of motoring to students at Coventry University.

Carer Assistants (Drivers) Mainly in Northfield, Yardley, Kings Heath, Moseley and Small Heath areas. Passion 4 Care offers NVQ courses and Diplomas and all other relevant training although experience is essential. CRB Check.

With an all-electric variant of the black cab set to be launched by Nissan in 2015, the petrol-engined versions are to be delivered in December 2014. The production facility for Nissan's new Taxi for London will be built adjacent to ADV's existing premises. The base vehicle will be sourced from Nissan’s Barcelona factory and shipped to the ADV plant in Coventry for final taxi assembly. The extensive taxi transformation includes new bodywork, taxi interior refit and revised suspension and steering. Andy Palmer said: “Our new Taxi for London is part of a wid-

er, international taxi programme that forms a key part of Nissan’s global strategy, so we are naturally being very prudent in selecting our partners. ADV has demonstrated that it has the proficiency and capability to deliver what we believe will become a new icon for London. “We are pleased to be reinforcing once again our commitment to the British automotive industry and the fact that our black cabs will be rolling off the production line in Coventry, with its long history in the taxi business, is an added bonus.”

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SPORT - WITH STEVE WILLIAMS

Choosing Breakthrough Breast Cancer for June Fun Run

his year’s Great Midlands Fun Run is a fantastic opportunity to dust off your trainers and start jogging in aid of Breakthrough Breast Cancer’s Sutton Coldfield Group. Last year, the event raised £1,450 and this year they are encouraging even more people to sign up and run for them. Every penny they raise goes towards the life-saving work of Breakthrough Breast Cancer – the UK’s leading breast cancer charity dedicated to stopping women getting, and dying from, breast cancer. Rebecca Wilcox, Community Engagement Executive at Breakthrough Breast Cancer, says: “It’s so important that people sign up to run for Breakthrough Breast Cancer. Every year, we need £20 million to continue our vital work, so the more people who sign up to run for us, the closer we get to our goal. Breast cancer kills 1,000 women every month and is still the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the UK. Breakthrough Breast Cancer is committed to ensuring that fewer women die from the disease, and this is only possible from the money raised by our fund-raisers.” From February 1, you can sign up for the 8.5 mile route around Sutton Coldfield giving fun-runners four months to get in shape before the

l David Curwen, Director of Hunter’s Estates and his youngest son, Olly, having just completed last year’s run

Samba Magic to soar this spring thanks to Brazilian coaching initiative

he world’s largest football coaching school is to embrace the West Midlands ahead of this year’s World Cup in Brazil. Challenger Sports Uk are set to ignite fair play and fun to the region through a dynamic programme ran through a number of Schools, with ‘Goal Keeper Icon’ being an entirely new franchise that will be tested. The sessions will provide a wealth of after lesson coaching with the Samba seasoned strategy aimed to get children driven to achieving their potential as well as working part of a team. With the potential to keep Children busy and active away from their curricular activities, the initiative is also looking to spark employment opportunities with coaching roles available and

ready to be filled. Chris Sharman, Global Franchise Director of Challenger Sports, said: “Parents want to know their kids are getting the most out of their time spent at clubs, learning something new, being physically active, developing social skills and importantly in the care of responsible and engaged professionals. That’s why we are looking for dedicated sports professionals with a strong interest in the holistic advantages sport offers to child development.” Chall e n g e r Sports has been dedicated to coaching the game since the 1980’s. Relocating to Kansas, U.S.A in 1985, the body backed by

the N.S.P.C.C. is now returning home. The ‘soccer camp programme’ is now split into three creative categories and hopes to attract further attention in the home of the beautiful game. Those interested in earning their coaching badges have been welcomed to approach Challenger Sports over the coming months, with further working opportunities with the sport body to be unveiled later in the year. Children from as young as 5-18 will be taught with an understanding of varied levels of ability wanted to endear the coaching school to parents and budding footballers alike. Similar opportunities will be opened for pre-schoolers, in the TinyTykes school, aimed at eighteen month to five year olds. For further information, go to www.challengerfranchising.com

The Phoenix – February 2014

race. The fun-run, in June, is open to everyone, from seasoned pros to those who prefer a more scenic and leisurely pace. David Curwen, Director of Hunter’s Estate Agent, who ran the Great Midlands Fun Run in aid of Breakthrough Breast Cancer last year, said: “The Great Midlands Fun Run is a wonderful summer event which means a lot to me personally, having taken part in the race last year in memory of my mother, who unfortunately passed away of this devastating disease. I highly recommend this fun run, regardless of your age or fitness levels; it is a very manageable distance and a great challenge to take on with friends to get this year off to a healthy start. Not only is it a great opportunity to take part in a fun challenge, you’ll be helping to raise vital funds for Breakthrough Breast Cancer, an amazing charity very close to my heart.” In total the Great Midlands Fun Run raised over £300,000 last year, and has benefited more than 300 charities since it began in 2003. To run for Breakthrough Breast Cancer Sutton Coldfield Group, simply choose Breakthrough Breast Cancer as your charity on your registration form at: www.greatmidlandsfunrun.com

The Phoenix - February 2014

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SPORT - WITH STEVE WILLIAMS

Agent Shehneela breaking football taboos

ne of the signings to outshine Juan Mata's move from Chelsea to Manchester United, during January's transfer window, was that of Shehneela Ahmed. As she's not one of Europe's leading goal-scorers, or defensive linch-pins, hers wasn't at the top of any clubs 'wanted' list. Shehneela made her own name last month as she became the latest top-line football agent, wheeling and dealing in a world that, up till now, has been a domain alien to her in more ways than one. In registering her name at the FA, she became the football's first qualified Asian, female agent, and the first Muslim woman to qualify as an FA-approved football agent, to boot. Miss Ahmed, a 41-year-old solicitor from Rochdale, in Greater Manchester, is not just in it to cut players the best deals, though, she's on a mission to open the Premier League to a generation of British Asian

stars, on the pitch, and encourage more from South Asia to be more involved in the game, on the field, on the terraces and in the boardroom. It's a pioneer venture by her, but insists that the idea of dealing with players, charm and managers isn't too intimidating for her. Stepping into the male-dominated world of the football agent is more an exciting challenge. She said: “After dealing with criminals all day, dealing with high-profile footballers isn't such a big worry as people make it out to be for me." She is hoping that her appointment will encourage more women from ethnic backgrounds to follow in her footsteps. She is looking to inspire parents from South Asian back-

grounds, to put sports up there as a traditional career choice on a par with law, medicine or the family business. "I want to prove to ethnic minorities and females that if you put your mind to it, you can achieve anything,” Shehneela beamed. With players of Asian descent representing only eight of the players in the Football League, perhaps Miss Ahmed's appointment will speedily improve that figure in the very near future.

Ashes victory Lourdes bright future for female game

t wasn’t the sheer devastation caused from skipper, Charlotte Edward’s 92 not out neither was it the tumbling tally of that matters is the level of impact that a Women’s Ashes victory represents. With that in mind, should our Lionesses disposal over their opponent, in record breaking style be shunned, be looked at with bemusement because yet again the men’s national game failed to deliver? The answer is a definite no. With thirteen balls to spare, England’s Ladies achieved what the men couldn’t, an Ashes victory and not only that, an Ashe’s victory in Australia’s back yard. Edward’s led with attacking intent throughout, disposing a rich of Aussie spoils in record breaking style, notching an impressive 92 off 59 balls. The facts will highlight an English triumph; the headlines however highlight a much bigger picture. The Football Association have worked tirelessly to correct attitudes towards homophobia both in the dressing room and on the terraces whilst the Interna-

tional Cricket Council (ICC) has placed the Women’s game as a priority for progression. And how that faith has been repaid Skipper Charlotte Edwards (92 not out) and Sarah Taylor (50 not out) saw the Women cruise home with an unbeaten stand of 114. Despite a previous bite from Australia skipper Meg Lanning (78 not out) little could be done to deter an impressive rollover. England led the multi-format series 10-4 with two T20 games remaining. The only sledging on offer here, was that of on watching fans back home in parts of the snow struck UK. A tearful response from the experienced captain Edwards, now 34, who mustered the form and performance to match that has given the women’s game so much to cheer in recent weeks. "I knew it was important that we played well here today and we did that. This has been a real team effort over the series and I am so proud of the girls and what they have done. It is a pretty special win."

Sport Relief challenges schools and nurseries to join in the fun and games

s the nation bends, stretches and contorts itself into shape for the Sport Relief weekend, its organisers are calling on all schools and nurseries in the West Midlands to get active on Friday March 21 and help to raise some serious cash. For the last Sport Relief campaign, in 2012, schools and nurseries from the West Midlands raised more than £390,000. For Sport Relief 2012, year 11 sports leaders at King Edward VI Handsworth Girls School in Birmingham organised their own Sport Relief Mile raising an amazing £4,477, making them one of the biggest school fundraisers in the West Midlands. This year the school will do their

mile dressed as famous sports people and donate money to see their teachers take on ‘I’m a Celeb’ style trials. Mr Charles Trotter, Head of Charities at Kings Edwards, said, “We are always astonished at the fundraising efforts of our pupils and hope to make our event for Sport Relief 2014 even bigger and better. I think the pupils already have a good idea of who they will be voting for to do the teacher challenges!" Aleks Leimanis, Schools and Youth Manager at Comic Relief said: “Schools and nurseries are some of the best fundraisers for Sport Relief and we are hugely grateful for their continued dedication and hard work. Schools and nurseries up and down the country have already signed up

to take part in Sport Relief 2014, So come on, join in the fun and games and be a part of something truly fantastic!” There are loads of ways schools can get involved in Sport Relief 2014. As always, you can organise your own Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile on Friday 21st March, but there are lots of other ways you can join the fun and games too – it’s up to you. The free School Fundraising Resource Pack contains exclusive materials to help you organise your event. The best bit is that all the cash raised will help people living incredibly tough lives, here in the West Midlands, across the UK and in the world’s poorest countries.

Rowers complete amazing challenge

Continued from Back Page

lives few of us have the luxury of time and beautiful surroundings in which to enjoy complete unadulterated contemplation.” Witnessing pods of dolphins, schools of whales, sharks and flying fish, the latter causing hilarity on board as both men have experienced a slap in the face whilst rowing. Massive support came from far and wide and pupils from Ridgemount their former boarding house at Shrewsbury School held their own rowing challenge raising an additional £2836 for the charities. After meating with their family and friends, at the end of their journey, in Barbados, James McLaugh-

lin, Chief Executive of Cure Leukaemia said, “We have the utmost admiration for Harry and Alex. Their drive and determination is truly inspirational for everyone. On behalf of the charity I extend our heartfelt thanks to them.” JDRF Senior Media Manager, Michael Connellan, said: “Harry and Alex proved themselves phenomenal fundraisers as well as athletes. Among the long list of heroic challenges that people have undertaken to support type 1 diabetes research, this stands out as something truly exceptional. Their magnificent journey is taking us closer to finding a cure for type 1 diabetes, a condition which affects 400,000 people in the UK alone.”

Ashes Victory - Page 35

Intrepid transatlantic A rowers complete amazing challenge

fter setting off from Gran Canaria in December, two remarkable young men spent seven weeks crossing the Atlantic waters, to the Port St. Charles in Barbados, to raise money for two Birmingham-based charities. Harry Martin-Dreyer and Alex Bland both left their London jobs to take on the 'Rowing 4 Research' challenge and raised over £137,000 for Cure Leukaemia and JDRF, the type 1 diabetes charity. The school friends, from Shrewsbury in Shropshire, set-off on this, their epic adventure, after Harry’s mother passed away with leukaemia, last year. And with Alex’s brother, Ross, suffering from type 1 diabetes, the duo felt compelled to embark on a remarkable test of human endurance to raise a staggering amount of

money for both charities. That personal sadness was the inspiration behind Harry’s decision to take to the high seas. The pair have celebrated Christmas and New Year on board their trusty vessel, ‘Alexandra,’ named after Harry's mother, as they progressed steadily along the way. They have kept all their followers updated with weekly newsletters that gave a flavour of the challenges and experiences they faced on the ocean. Massive waves, blisters, sores, extreme heat, exhaustion and mind-numbing boredom tested their strength and resolve to the limit but never broke their will to complete the crossing. Both men described the awesome beauty, solitude and magnificence of the open Atlantic Ocean stating; “In our every day

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