The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018 by The Phoenix Newspaper

Promoting Diversity for Birmingham Commonwealth Games 2022

Eat Me! I’m Healthy! JUNE 2018

Connecting Communities - Inspiring A New Generation

Love Fire

The Wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle - Pages 23-26 K.G. Miles 349A Soho Road, Handsworth, Birmingham, B21 9SE

Tel: 0121 554 2130 Peter Waite BSc M.C. Optom

Fax: 0121 554 9160 pewaite@eyesforu.net

OPTICIANS We Offer:

• Diabetic Retinopathy Screening • Glaucoma Screening • 3D Eye Imaging (Spectralis)

• Contact Lens Assessment • Home Visits • MECS (Minor Eye Condition Service)

P.E.Waite B. Sc M.C. Optom, 8 Horton Square, Highgate, Birmingham, B12 0YR

Tel: 0121 440 1636 Fax: 0121 440 1636 pewaite@eyesforu.net

Page 2 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018

thephoenixnewspaper.com

To advertise your business

0121 339 5885 0208 865 1922 advertising @thephoenixnewspaper.com Contact us with your details, as well as the details of the advertisement, and one of our team will get in touch with you as soon as possible to secure your place in the paper.

+44 (0) 800 009 6909 +44 (0) 121 339 5885

General Enquiries Advertising

newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com advertising@thephoenixniewspaper.com

/PhoenixNewsUK /ThePhoenixNewspaper

Mandy Phoenix Birmingham Office TPN Media, The Colmore Building, 20 Colmore Circus Queensway, Birmingham, B4 6AT

Nigeria Office (Abuja) Hse 46, Crescent 12, 1st Avenue, Efab Estate Life Camp Abuja, FCT +2349099466961 +2348035653973

Contact - Emeke Alex Akwaeze Africa Correspondent alex.akwaeze@thephoenixnewspaper.com

www.thephoenixnewspaper.com Published by TPN Media

Disclaimer

The views and promises of advertisers in The Phoenix Newspaper do not necessarily reflect the views of or endorsement by The Phoenix Newspaper.

Are you looking for answers about community related issues?

Contact The Phoenix Newspaper Community Talkback team to get us onto the case!

Are you unsure of where to go to find the information you require, or are you being stonewalled when enquiring?

Email us with your story, topic, or enquiry, and you could be one of the lucky ones picked to be published each month.

Knife Attack

Mirror Mirror on the Wall Who is Leader of the ‘Free World’? A Cultural Problem? the By Dr Tony Talburt

o you remember when the 50 bus used to be located outside of Argos on Priory Queensway? Back in the mid 90’s there were a number of stabbings that used to take place between Somalian and AfroCaribbean youngsters. This was a new wave of knife crime that was said to have started with a misunderstanding between Somalian youth and AfroCaribbean youth, this may have been purely from a lack of understanding of each others culture which ties in similarly to the struggles faced by the immigrants arriving on the Empire Windrush when they encountered a similar trend from some of the indigenous people of the UK. Many of the AfroCaribbean men who tell their story of their arrival in the UK talk about the many knife fights that they used to have with the then ‘Teddy Boys’. With a new wave of immigrants coming into the country over the last decade there seems to be a similar reoccurance of knife crime. People were concerned that in many of these war torn countries, young people were witnessing death on an almost daily basis and in some cases even being a part of it. This appears to be happening on our streets in the UK once again. Young teenagers from different countries and cultural backgrounds have arrived in this country, without any preconceptions of other minorities that were born in the UK.

There is a similarity to these knife crimes that have spread out across the country, in particular in London. Many young people are losing their lives senselessly. Community leaders from these areas need to come together and be honest about what is really going on. As Edna quite rightly said, “If you’re sitting in your living room, and a stranger walks in and starts to move around your furniture and dictate where you can walk and where you can’t, you’re not going to be happy with that.” Immigration is a very delicate matter and it is made more difficult when you have a melting pot of so many different beliefs, ideas, cultures and backgrounds that has changed the face of Britain almost overnight. The ordinary people are at a loss as to what to do or where to go to get help to solve this problem but the fundamental problem remains with the government and its immigration policies. We hope that the Police can find some solution to this turf war that we are all facing through no fault of our own. Mothers who love unconditionally, this is the time where you need to speak to your children and guide them in safe ways of which they can avoid being the next victim of a disease that has been left to take the lives of many of our children. Don’t sit back and do nothing, at the end of the day, we understand what it is like to lose a loved one, let alone a child that has been murdered, taken away from this earth far too soon.

n the 1940s, during and just after the Second World War, significant proportions of Western Europe were in political and economic tatters and uncertainty. At a time when Britain was no longer able to independently maintain or significantly influence global stability, up stepped the United States of America. Almost simultaneously, a new politically emotive term, the ‘free world’ was used, to refer loosely, to the industrialised, capitalist or Western nations of the world which championed peace, democracy and liberalism in all its forms. More specifically, the term was also used to describe the United States of America, or the President of the USA, as the beacon and leader of the free world. It was in this context, with American leadership and influence, that the global institutions of the IMF, World Bank, NATO and the United Nations were established. There was no doubting the fact, the conductor of this global political orchestra was America. Fast forward to the end of January 2017, and we find a different kind of America, where, it has to be asked, is the world freer, fairer and safer, and who is the leader? Back in the 1940s and ‘50’s global co-operation amongst the capitalist powers was very much in fashion. Today, the Trump administration seems to be singlehandedly embarking upon a mission of splendid isolationism. A few of its main foreign policies serve to illustrate this. In the first place, it was assumed that a collective insti-

tution like NATO would serve to not only present a show of force, and preventing hostilities from aggressor states, but ultimately ensure global peace. It seems hard to imagine that America could now even consider turning its back on NATO, but the Trump administration sees this institution as obsolete, which is costing America too much money. This anti-collective stance by President Trump was observed when Britain voted to leave the EU, where he regarded it as a ‘good thing’ for Britain.

l President Trump Furthermore, President Trump is against the North America Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Although this deal was originally signed to promote freer trade between Canada, the USA and Mexico, making it potentially the largest free trade bloc in the world, President Trump claims it is not a good deal for Americans primarily because it threatens thousands of jobs. Similarly, President Trump has pulled out of the Paris Agreement signed in 2015, once again saying it is not a good deal for America. President Trump is against the Iran Nuclear deal saying that is the ‘worst deal ever’. The interesting issue with this particular American position, is that it brings America

into a potential clash with its NATO allies, who continue to support the nuclear deal. In a separate policy, where so many countries of the world reject the idea of Israel’s claim of sovereignty over Jerusalem, America has once again gone its own way, by moving the Embassy of Israel to Jerusalem. President Trump is threatening, or debating, a trade war with his country’s most significant trading partner, China. The repercussions of an allout trade war between these two countries, both of which control more than a quarter of global trade, could have adverse impacts on the global economy. If America follows through on all these policies, my original question once again comes into focus. Who is the leader of the free world? Will it be China or America leading the capitalist global economy? As Britain pulls out of the EU and seeks more bilateral deals, will that special relation between these two former war time allies be as strong or relevant? I hope my pessimism is somewhat misplaced, but if America continues down this path of splendid isolationism, with fewer of its traditional allies to rely on, within a context where Britain might also be in isolated from European deals, the world could be on the brink of new era of a leaderless free world. There is also the hope that, as is President Trump’s style, he could embark upon a major reversal or retreat from some of these policy announcements. At this time of political and economic uncertainty, strong, clear and a collective sense of global leadership, is perhaps the best way forward.

@PhoenixNewsUK

The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018 - Page 3

Give Us A Hand (Or Two!)

New Artistic Landmark on the way thanks to Halesowen College Student

lorence Thompson, an 18 year old student at Halesowen College was announced as the winner of a challenge put to second year students by West Midlands based A Perry and Co (Hinges) Ltd. They were tasked with designing a representative sculpture which will take pride of place at A Perry’s new base. The 93 year old company which is independent and familyowned offered the opportunity

to support the students in their final diploma assignment for the B.Tech Extended Diploma in Art & Design. Florence‘s design captures A Perry’s heritage and expertise, as it represents vividly the strong link between the history and future of the brand through two linked hands. Guy Perry, Managing Director of A Perry was on hand to congratulate Florence who will be awarded with a tablet for her achievement The design will be

brought to life over the next few months using A Perry’s products by local artist Phil Bayliss. Guy, who joined the family firm in 1981 as an apprentice, says, “A Perry takes its commitment to nurture and develop local talent very seriously and we are working proactively towards providing opportunities for these

students within our industry aligned with our ‘Progress with Perry’ apprenticeship programme, which provides opportunities for long-term employment within our organisation. We’re opening our doors to fresh, determined minds whose vision aligns with our motto: ‘We don’t do boring’. “The process has been very

exciting so far and now everyone’s on tenterhooks waiting for Florence’s project to be turned into reality.” John Murray, director of organisational development at Halesowen College, says, “The assignment was an ideal opportunity for students to work on a commercially relevant ‘live

brief’. Within the Creative Arts Faculty, staff are keen to provide learners with experience of ‘real world’ applications to enhance their skills. We are eager to stress the employment opportunities that exist within the creative industries and this particular project is both commercially and aesthetically interesting.”

thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 4 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018

Business Insights with Dr Christopher Johnson

istory can be perceived in different ways; as a ‘reflection of the past’, ‘comparison of the present’ and ‘projection of the future’. Opinions tend to differ from one side to the other, although history in itself, ‘never lies’. So while history as a discipline, mirrors almost every facet of human existence, business history per se, is not often seen in that realm, even though its importance in today’s age, is more crucial than ever. How can business history serve a real purpose in today’s fast changing news cycle, where social media is competing inexorably with facts and credibility versus fiction and illusion? Does business history have a place in society? How can it be given recognition in modern economic thinking? Who really benefits from this discipline? Does it really matter whether society believes in its principles or not? Seemingly, more questions than answers on this seldom discussed area of economic import. Business history is not merely limited to academic circles, governmental and/or other sectional interests and concerns. Rather, it is vital towards a better comprehension of underlying elements that contributing to levels of production and productivity in economies – national and international. Economics as a discipline, has been around for hundreds of years, and yet only in the first half of the 20th century, was entrepreneurship included in mainstream literature (Schumpeter 1947: Chandler 1962). More specifically, business history, as part of the science of economics (featuring the laws of demand and supply), is relevant to the origin, growth and development of firms; be they micro, small to medium and large. Since business owners have little time or resources to gauge the impact of their companies on the operating environment, business history can be utilised effectively as a tool to evaluate key performance indicators (KPIs) of firms (The International Business Environment, Prentice Hall: 2004). Consequently, the parameters of a firm’s overall performance can be analysed through these lens –growth and development spurts.

Diagnostic Tools

In optimising appropriate diagnostic tools, various components of firms’ operations can be adduced; namely type of ownership and control, leadership and management competencies, location of firm, structure, industry sector and business segments composite, marketing, distribution and supply chains as well as the type of term-strategy in place. The growth patterns of businesses can be learnt from

Celebrating 27 Years of Somaliland Independence

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

different angles through tactical enquiries. For instance, what has been the growth pattern of the firm over the past 5 years? What is the level of customer retention and how is this measured? What effect does customer loyalty have on profitability? How are profits or surpluses invested or ploughed back [in the case of social enterprises or not-for-profit entities] into the business? What areas of the firm are increasingly likely to benefit from investment portfolio(s)? The question of how growth is measured is also vital to the existence of firms. The notion of business history is also seen in view of a firm’s development thrust. Growth is linked to factors such as leadership and managerial styles, market orientation and the strategic acumen of ownermanagers, to adapt to vagaries such as new ideas, consumer buying behaviour, financial trends as well as new innovative products and services in the marketplace. Further, the typology of development - whether short, medium or long-term- can determine too, the quality of outcomes vis-à-vis the quantum of goods and services firms offer to loyal and potential customers alike. In essence, business history captures the longevity or the ‘lifecycle’ of firms Standard Industrial Classification model (Office for National Statistics 2011). Perhaps the third relevancy of business history is the impact of firms on the micro and macro environment, also referred in strategic terms to strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) as well as political, economic, social, technological, legal and environmental (PESTLE). Understanding the varying degrees of influence these causative factors have on the operating environment, are important for evaluating either performance or underperformance of firms. If business history is to be given a new lease of life for the 21st century, legislators should collaborate strategically, with educational institutions, research centres, civic societies, faith groups and even independent think-tanks, to make this discipline, more accessible and recognised as an intrinsic component of corporate governance. The current ‘Business Studies’ curriculum is underpinned by a high level of technocracy (theoretical constructs) rather than a foci on ‘real-life’ operational systems, procedures and processes of firms, using an industry sector excellence model. Noteworthy, the prospects for integrating business history as a strategic plank of economic governance, can pay rich dividends, as Table 1 illustrates.

l Gathered Dignitaries, Community groups and members of the public attended the celebration

n celebration of 27 years since the reaffirmation of the Independence of Somaliland, an evening reception with H.E. Ayan Mahamoud MBE, the Head of the Somaliland Mission to the UK and the Commonwealth. The event, organised and hosted by Nura Ali, Executive Director of Allies Network, an organisation dealing with a variety of issues facing women from ethnic minorities to support better well-being and assist life changes, was held at the Princes Trust in Birmingham with a host of specially invited guests. In attendance were local dignitaries, politicians and community leaders, including

Vice Lord-Lieutenant of the West Midlands, Dr Beverly Lindsay OBE OD, Martin Levermore MBE DL, Councillors Yvonne Mosquito, Paulette Hamilton and Diane Donaldson, Quaye Botchway, Ode Hye Asiedu Ofei and Amrick Ubhi. The group heard of the difficult history of Somaliland from Dr Edna Adan, Former First lady of Somaliland and Founder of Edna Aden Maternity HospitalSomaliland, but also heard how positive things are looking for the country which is seeking recognition of its independence that was granted to it 27 years ago by Queen Elizabeth II. The youth of Somaliland are looked to as the future, and as we

n 2014, barrister Nisha Katona, a dedicated curry evangelist, had a nagging obsession to create a restaurant serving; the kind of food Indian people eat at home and on the street. She gave up her 20-year career in law (she was the first female Indian barrister in Liverpool) to build Mowgli Street Food, where it blew away the critics. It quickly moved to Birmingham, where it has garnered legions of fans and an amazing following. A branch just opened in Oxford, with Leeds and Nottingham coming soon, with expansion plans across the rest of the country also underway. Nisha's cookbook: ‘Mowgli: Stories and recipes from the Mowgli Street Food restaurants’ turns conventional curry stereotypes on their heads. The simple and creative dishes of a Mowgli menu are a million miles away from the traditional takeaway. These recipes convey the truth that real Indian food is healthy, often vegan, and always packed with fresh flavour. Already known for feeding

saw at an event just a few months ago in Birmingham, they are already doing some great things, both for themselves in society here, and also in raising money, doctors kits and awareness for back home as well. While the atrocities that Somaliland has faced are not to be forgotten, it is good to see they are still looking forward with hope to what the future will bring. There were pledges by the Councillors invited to do what they can to help the Somaliland communities in their constituencies and also in gaining the acknowledgement they so desperately strive for.

Hospital Facing Up To 3 Year Delays The opening of a new hospital in the West Midlands could be delayed by up to three years, as Smethwick's Midland Met Hospital, which was originally due to open in October - before being put back by a year to 2019, following the collapse of Wolverhampton based construction firm Carillion earlier this year - may be delayed until 2022. The board of the Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust meet to discuss the plans, with chief executive Toby Lewis saying that the trust was more hoping for a 2020 hospital opening date, but admitted that 2022 was more likely. He said: “We are continuing to press for an early restart for a more rapid route to a single acute hospital, which, we feel, could be achieved by 2020. Some options being considered, though, make 2022 more likely, with certainty not achieved until early next year." Carillion had successfully bid for a £75m contract at the 670bed hospital. The trust said that a new contractor was needed and costs "may exceed" £75m. The firm was awarded the contract in December 2015, and BBC News revealed that it would cost at least £588m over a 30-year contract. A Department of Health spokesperson said: "The government is working to minimise the impact and discussions with the trust and PFI company are ongoing to ensure there are plans in place to keep any construction delays to a minimum."

From Bar to Street, Nisha is Cooking Up a Storm people incredible, love-inspired, authentic Indian food, her book will allow anyone to do that for themselves, and their friends and family, in their own homes. A judge on the BBC’s ‘Best in Shop,’ presented by Tom Kerridge, TV chef and author, Nisha, says: “There were times

when I thought, ‘Is this going to happen?’ At times it was extremely bad.” But she did it and it’s changed her life. “My family in India think I’m mad. Their view is, ‘Why give up all the respect of being a lawyer for this?’ But I love it.” Now also a regular on Lor-

raine Kelly’s daytime show, Nisha is also appearing on ITV’s new series The Secret Chef. With Britain so uniquely accepting of world cuisines, it now looks like she made a wise decision.…

@PhoenixNewsUK

n the year that celebrates the 70th Anniversary of the Windrush coming to England with people from various Caribbean islands to help rebuild the UK following the 2nd World War, the Corporate Black Workers Support Group from Birmingham City Council have shown their commitment to recognising the work that that generation have done to rebuild the country. “Going forward we want to leave a legacy so our children, and our children’s children, can see how the black community is in Birmingham and the wider UK, “ explained Deborah Moseley, Chair of the CBWSG. The CBWSG commissioned the Kingsway Project to develop an activity book which talks about the journey from the Caribbean to Britain, and demonstrates the achievements of black people in the UK, to get the younger people to engage and understand what Windrush is all about. On the day there were performances from the children attending the launch, as well as a reading of poetry by Victor

l Aisha’s winning design

The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018 - Page 5

Windrush Activity Book Launched To Inform and Entertain

BOOK ONLINE w ww.thsh.co.uk Box oﬃce 0121 780 3333

SINATRA AT THE SANDS PERFORMED BY CURTIS

STIGERS AND THE RONNIE SCOTT’S BIG BAND

FRI 13 JULY 2018, 8:00PM TOWN HALL

KEVIN AND KAREN

l Marcia, right, and the team behind ‘Windrush 70 and Beyond’ Richards, who has been touring with his works for the last 23 years. “We ran a competition alongside the launch,” Communications Officer for CBWSG Marcia Reid told The Phoenix, “and we invited young people from local schools to design a commemorative mug that will go into production.” “Students of all nationalities from Nelson Primary School, Ladywood and Yew Tree Primary School, Walsall took part in the competition, and the designs that were shown outside today were how these children saw the Windrush.” The schools embraced the topic

SAT 14 JULY 2018 2:30PM & 7:30PM SYMPHONY HALL

and the competition, with various assemblies on the topic held to help the young people to focus on their task. The winner was announced at the launch of the book, “Windrush 70 and Beyond” at Birmingham’s Council House on the 11th May as 8 Year Old Aisha from Nelson Primary School who will have her mug presented to her at a later date. 8,000 copies have so far been printed and are available free of charge to members of the community focusing on young people. To get a copy you can call 0121 303 8900 and ask for Marcia Reid.

JOAN ARMATRADING THE 2018 TOUR THU 20 SEPT 2018, 7:30PM TOWN HALL

DIONNE WARWICK DON’T MAKE ME OVER

Cotswolds Roll Out World’s ‘Most Sophisticated’ Supermarket App’

THU 20 SEPT 2018, 8PM SYMPHONY HALL

AT LAST: THE ETTA JAMES STORY THU 18 OCT 2018, 8PM TOWN HALL

l Nicholas Bailey with Host Steve Dourass (SCCB Business & Community Manager

he revolutionary new Ubamarket shopping app is being trialled in a flagship franchise store in Moreton-in-Marsh, in the Cotswolds. The Budgens shop is the first supermarket in England to use the solution the industry magazine ‘The Grocer’ has called ‘the most sophisticated supermarket app out there.’ Ubamarket aims to combine the efficiency of online retail with the benefits of the in-store experience. The app rearranges the products on a shopping list according to their location in-store, tracking each item in order of convenience and alerting shoppers of their total spend and special offers. Users can also enter their store loyalty card details into the app, so with each purchase they benefit from automatic loyalty without the need to search for a loyalty card at the checkout.

Eastenders Star Shines at SCCB InBusiness Evening

ormer EastEnders star, Nicholas Bailey, was the Special Guest Speaker at the South & City College Birmingham InBusiness networking event as he shared his life experiences to business leaders and entrepreneurs, at Birmingham City Football Club. He highlighted his early life living under the spotlight of being the son of a Birmingham superstar father – a member of soul super-group Delegation – his aspirations of entering the legal services, through to fulfilling his dream of being an actor: “I was a qualified lawyer,” he recalled, “and I also worked at the City (Birmingham) Council. But the ‘call’ for a career as an actor was too much then. With unyielding support, he achieved his dream; from his first major role – as Brutus in Ju-

lius Caesar – to his big TV role, as Dr Trueman, in the BBC Soap and beyond. “EastEnders was my biggest break,” he recalled, “and also my most humbling experience because of what it means to people.” Today, alongside his charity work, for Friends of Brandon Hill, and taking part in the Combat Stress Spartacus Race, as well as completing his MBA in Business at Birmingham University, he’s also developing a play about the mental health of Britain’s first Black footballer and soldier, Walter Tull; “There’s too much stigma there,” he said, “especially with the Black and Asian soldiers and the Gurkhas. I want them to be recognised and acknowledged. As leader we have to be about improvement.” A sentiment shared by all at this SCCB InBusiness Network evening.

DARIUS RUCKER

SUN 21 OCT 2018, 7:30PM SYMPHONY HALL

Find us on Facebook Badge

CMYK / .ai

Town Hall Symphony Hall townhallsymphonyhall Funded by

@THSHBirmingham thsh_birmingham Town Hall renovation also funded by

thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 6 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018

WORLD

EXCLUSIVE

Experience An ‘Iconic’ evening with Take 6 by Daniel Riley

en-time Grammy Award winning Sextet Take 6 are bring their Iconic acapella music to Birmingham’s Town Hall on the 20th July. With 3 Gold Albums, 16 albums in total, and a further 10 GMA Dove awards, ahead of this return to the Second City, The Phoenix Newspaper’s Daniel Riley spoke with Lead Singer and founding member of Take 6, Claude McKnight, taking him back to the beginnings of the group. From an early age, singing, and acapella in particular was a big part of Claude’s life, “I grew up singing in choirs at church from the time I was probably 5 or 6 years old. “I had 3 brothers so we had a quartet where we sang acapella quite a bit.” Oakwood University, where Claude first started the then Gentleman’s Estates Quartet, had a rich heritage of acapella groups, choirs, trios and quartets. “It didn’t take long at all to

find people for the group, my roommate was a singer, and literally at that time you could find people very easily who grew up in the same way as I did and pull them together into a group.” Listening to Take 6’s music, you can’t help but notice all of the different genres of music that have influenced the band and that they enjoy, from Gospel to R&B, Jazz and more. What seems like it would be difficult to do for most, Claude says that in reality it comes easily to Take 6. “It’s not that difficult for us to balance these influences, we’re all very like minded. There are elements of everything that stokes our fires. “At any given time, you’ll have influences of Earth, Wind and Fire, Andre Crouch, Nat King Cole and all manner of things that go into our arrangements and writing due to the eclectic nature of what we love. “We try make sure that we feel great about the music we create.” Take 6 have been together for 30 plus years now, but the proudest

l Claude McKnight moment for Claude was their first nomination, and subsequent win of their first Grammy Award. “It was a monumental experience for us, at the time 3 of the guys were still in school, so to even be nominated on such a world stage, and to perform on that programme was pretty groundbreaking for us.” “There was a Grammy that year that we were nominated for and didn’t win, which was for Best New Artist. “You can only be nominated once for that, and that was the year that Tracy Chapman won it. It’s probably the category I’m proudest of, despite not winning.” Very early in Take 6’s career, legends Stevie Wonder and Quincy Jones, two of the band’s ‘uncle’s’ so to speak joined up with the band, and have led them and worked with them ever since. Quincy Jones is even quoted as calling Take 6 “The baddest vocal cats on the planet”. “It’s cool, because they’re friends of our as well as contemporaries, peers, luminaries and legends for us.

“They’re both amazing when it comes to the excellence that they bring.” “They’re so open to what it is that you do,” Claude continued, “and when that happens, your creativity goes through the roof.

INTERVIEW does. Ariana Grande and Adele as well. “Marvin Gaye and Aretha Franklin, such iconic voices would also have been people we’d also have loved to work with.” “When we set out doing music, we started doing things that we loved. The more authentic you are with that, the more genuine you are too, it will find an audience. You don’t know who it will reach, let the music talk for itself.” The band is working feverishly right now to put the tour together, as there is a vast difference between writing and recording a track, and knowing it well enough to perform on stage to an audience. Iconic is an album of songs that Take 6 loves to perform for both themselves, and their fans. This tour won’t just feature the new album, there will be tracks from all over Take 6’s illustrious career. One of their tracks especially has a special place in Claude’s heart. “I’ve got to go all the way back

“There is nothing like seeing us live, because there is an energy that you can only get from a live performance...” There is a respect factor that goes with that as well.” The group have collaborated with a number of people over their career, but one that they haven’t had the pleasure of singing with yet and really want to, might surprise you! “Currently it would be amazing to work with someone like Bruno Mars, he’s so incredibly gifted and brings such an energy to what he

to the very beginning. Spread Love is a song that for me personally has a very special meaning. “It was the first song that 3 of us within the group wrote together, and it was also our very first single.” As for why you should come down to the Town Hall on the 20th July, Claude makes a very convincing statement. “You can buy, or stream, or

download a Take 6 Album, and you can listen and enjoy it, but there is nothing like seeing us live, because there is an energy that you can only get from a live performance, and things change on the spur of the moment depending on what we’re feeling that particular night. “We are really looking forward to coming back to Birmingham for the first time in years, I do remember we had a very raucous amazing crowd last time, so we’re looking forward to seeing the fans and having a great time.” “One thing that I’ve known for a long time that has worked for me is ‘It is always better to give than to receive.’” “Especially in times that feel bleak, find a way to give to someone else, give your time, your experience, your heart. “You never know what someone else is going through, and it will start shaping your existence in ways you can’t even imagine. It will uplift and encourage you, so I would say to everybody, give as much as you can.” Take 6 will continue touring for the rest of the year, before talking about, and then recording the next Take 6 project, which could possibly be called Iconic 2. “What we’re finding right now, especially with the release of this album, is that there is an appetite both within the group and among our fans, for us to do these iconic songs that people know. “It’s a win-win situation, as we get to do songs that we love, but putting that Take 6 spin on it.” Take 6 will take to the equally Iconic stage of Birmingham’s Town Hall on July 20th, tickets are available now by calling 0121 780 3333 or visiting www.thsh.co.uk.

@PhoenixNewsUK

Take 6 ad proper size.indd 1

The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018 - Page 7

29/05/2018 12:07

thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 8 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018

Armed Forces Unite For Charity Skydive

l Abdi Rahman, Brand Somaliland, HE Ayan Mahamoud MBE, Head of the Somaliland Mission to the UK, Keither Stokes-Smith, Chairman of the Birmingham Commonwealth Association, Marcia Lewinson CEO of W.A.I.T.S,, and Nura Ali, Executive Director of Allies Network.

FGM and DA Tackled At Conference

llies Network and Women Acting In Today’s Society (W.A.I.T.S) in collaboration with Birmingham Commonwealth Association and Birmingham City University held a one day conference on Exploring the Culture of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and Domestic Abuse (DA) in the Black & Minority Ethnic Communities. The event brought together an impressive mix of local legal practitioners, school leadership team members, community organisations, corporate business representatives, childrens services, safeguarding leads and more, Introduced by Keith Stokes-Smith, Chairman of the BCA, the event began by defining culture, the values, norms and traditions that affect how individuals of a particular group perceive, think, interact, behave, and make judgments about their world. Through speakers including H.E. Ayan Mahamoud MBE, Head of the Somaliland Mission to the UK, those in attendance began to more clearly understand

the role of culture in supporting women effected by FGM and Domestic Abuse in communities. Throughout the day-long conference, a wide range of topics were discussed, including how the lack of cultural awareness creates barriers in breaking the cycle of FGM and Domestic Abuse, understanding cultural need in designing and delivering services for women affected by FGM and Domestic Abuse, and exploring practical issues and strategies for working with communities and multi-agencies locally, nationally and internationally. A panel consisting of H.E Ayan Mahamoud MBE, Nura Ali - Executive Director of Allies Network, Marcia Lewinson - CEO of W.A.I.T.S, Zoe (a DV Survivor) and Abdi (for a Male perspective on FGM), the debate gave delegates the opportunity to understand the barriers and some effective methods of working against FGM and Domestic Abuse. “It is also important that we collectively improve preventions and early intervention strategies when targeting Fe-

male Genital Mutilation and Domestic Abuse,” said co-organiser Nura Ali, “This conference helped to shape local and regional practice.”

l Keith introducing the event

l Charity Chairman Mr Donald Campbell (Ex Warrant Officer RAF) with serving members of the Royal Navy Engagement Team (Wales and West of England) Petty Officer Fred Perry & Leading Hand Edmund Grandison, Ex Army Bomb Disposal - Prof Martin Levermore MBE, DL (Deputy Lieutenant of the West Midlands), ex RAF - Mr Ronald Lisk-Carew and sculptor Martin Jennings.

n Saturday 26th May 2018, 4 personnel representing the 3 Armed Forces took part in a Charity Skydive and Parachute Jump on behalf of the National Caribbean Monument Charity. The jump was organised by the charities Chairman Mr Donald Campbell (Ex Warrant Officer RAF) in conjunction with serving members of the Royal Navy Engagement Team (Wales and West of England) Petty Officer Fred Perry & Leading Hand Edmund Grandison, Ex Army Bomb Disposal - Prof Martin Levermore MBE, DL, and ex RAF - Mr Ronald LiskCarew. The 4 jumpers leapt out at 14,000 feet, hurtling towards the ground at 120mph for 45 seconds, before safely floating down to earth accompanied by their tandem instructors. All the monies raised will go to the National Caribbean Monument Charity(T-

NCMC), a charity whose aim is to install a monument in the National Memorial Arboretum, Alrewas, Staffordshire in recognition of sacrifices and contributions made by military men and women of the Caribbean for services to Britain. Funds have been raised through personal sponsorship and just giving charity page online. All who jumped thoroughly enjoyed the experience and are very keen to continue to support such a worthwhile charity and look forward to seeing the finished monument in position at the Arboretum by 2021. The jumpers were joined on the day by friends and family, Dr Beverly Lindsay OBE OD VLL, Suzanne Lynch, Lieutenant Commander, Royal Navy, members of the Charity and also the Monument artist and Sculptor Mr Martin Jennings. PO Perry quoted " This was an amazing experience and it is great to be support-

ing such a worthwhile charity to remember current and ex serving personnel from the Caribbean communities that gave and continue to give so much in support to the British Armed Forces". Chair Donald Campbell quoted “ The inspiration of this Project was initiated after a visit to the National Memorial Arboretum, by 4 ladies, 2 of which were at the Parachute Jump, Pauline Milnes & Carol Curtis, ex Army. “It was then initiated out of the need to recognise Caribbean Military Personnel, past, present and future for services to Britain during WW1, WW2 and other conflicts. “This Monument will be a focal point, and an educational legacy for all. “Did you know that there is no positive or tangible representation in the National Memorial Arboretum, Staffordshire for Caribbean Military Personnel?”

Saathi House Celebrating 40 Years Serving the Community

l Ammo Talwar, CEO/Founder of Punch reminiscing about the history of Saathi House

t was a look at Aston’s past, present and future as guests gathered for the special launch of ‘Saathi House Story – A 40 Year Journey,’ a new book which highlights the ups, and further ups of an organisation – a haven – for children and young people from the inner-city district in Birmingham. Closely linked with the very nearby Aston Villa Football Club, it marked its 40thanniversary with a special evening – at the football club then at the House – to launch the book, packed with stories and photographs chronicling the life of a community initiative that is as strong and ongoing, today, as it ever has.

Some of the city’s leading personalities were present, each with their own story and experiences of how the converted town house shaped their individual lives as ‘Saathi House Story – A 40 Year Journey,’ was officially launched by journalist and BBC Television presenter Sue Beardsmore, now Chair of the West Midlands Committee for the Heritage Lottery Fund. Ammo Talwar MBE, Founder/ CEO of music development agency Punch Records, is one who happily shared his fond memories: “As an Aston man Saathi House means a lot to me,” he reminisced; “it was the centre of my life as a child. We needed place like this to make us feel good about

ourselves, and it certainly shaped my life since.” BBC TV presenter, Anita Bhalla OBE, was another who shared her time at Saathi, adding: “I was aware of Saathi House for a very long time and will always be thankful to them for allowing the setting the foundations for the Asian Resource Centre – the first for, and first by, Asian women. Saathi House is a fantastic programme that, I’m sure, will go on for the next 40 years.” ‘Saathi’ means companion; someone accompanying you in something. After 40-years now there’s a perfect opportunity to learn just how much emanates from the little house – with the big heart.

@PhoenixNewsUK

The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018 - Page 9

thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 10 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018

Town Hall Symphony Hall And The Phoenix Newspaper Announce Media Partnership

own Hall Symphony Hall and The Phoenix Newspaper are pleased to announce their media partnership for the upcoming Take 6 concert on July 20th at Birmingham’s iconic Town Hall. Ten time Grammy award winners Take 6 will make their welcome return to Birmingham when they perform at Birmingham Town Hall on 20 July for their only full UK show of 2018. Heralded by Quincy Jones as the “baddest vocal cats on the planet!”, Take 6 is the quintessential a cappella group and model for vocal genius. Audiences can look forward to hearing six virtuosic voices united in crystal clear harmony, against a backdrop of syncopated rhythms, innovative arrangements, and funky grooves that bubble into an intoxicating brew of gospel, jazz, R&B, and pop.

With praise from such luminaries as Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder, Brian Wilson, Ella Fitzgerald and Whitney Houston, the multi-platinum selling sextet has toured across the globe, collaborated across genres, and is recognized as the pre-eminent a cappella group in the world. Speaking about the partnership Daniel Riley, Assistant Editor of The Phoenix Newspaper said; "The Phoenix Newspaper is honoured to be Media Partners with THSH for Take 6's iconic return to Birmingham. We are the UK's only positive non-biased publication that is a staunch supporter of inclusion.

“Our ethos is to connect communities and inspire a new generation and we pride ourselves as being the only publication that is accepted in all churches and other faith-led establishments. “Our aim and objective is to showcase all that is good from all communities for a greater understanding of those around us, in particular the 53 nations that make up the Commonwealth, breaking down barriers where there should be none. “This is why we know that The Phoenix Newspaper is the perfect vehicle for this event with our links and experience within the Entertainment industry through

NOTARY PUBLIC LEGAL SERVICES

154 Soho Rd, Handsworth, Birmingham B21 9LN

Phone: 0121 554 7070

Fax: 0121 554 1400

============================================== ==

Dr. Paul Nischal (Senior Consultant) Email: property@forwardestates.co.uk or paulnischal@yahoo.com website: www.notarypubliclegalservices.com

Notary Public Services Every Tuesday & Thursday From 5pm to 6.30pm

We prepare & Attest all Kinds of documents Including:

Take 6 ad proper size.indd 1

* Power of Attorney * Sponsorship Declaration * * Accommodation * Affidavits * Change of Name Deed * Wills * * Letter of Authority * Passports * Birth Certificate Translation *

Transfer of properties, sale & purchase documents for West Indies & other Countries.

NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARY In addition home or Hospital visits can be arranged by appointment.

our sister publication Street Cred Magazine who has dealt with the likes of Destiny's Child, Quincy Jones, Puff Daddy, Teddy Riley, Whitney Houston, Lauren Hill, David Bowie and Iman to name a few, over the 21 years of its existence. “Take 6 are a phenomenal force with 10 Grammy Awards under their belts, and we are looking forward to them bringing their amazing brand of a cappella, honed over 30+ years in the business to Birmingham. “With legends like Quincy Jones and Stevie Wonder not just as collaborators, but as friends and even mentors, this is one group that you

would be crazy to miss out on. Make sure you get your tickets NOW for this fantastic evening!" Since its inception 7 years ago, The Phoenix Newspaper has been championing unity and the connecting of communities, giving people a live and let live attitude with a non-biased approach to organisations, individuals and places. The paper has a firm and steadfast commitment to promoting positive, objective and informative news and is dedicated to tackling the real issues that affect the multi-cultural communities in Birmingham, West Midlands, and nationwide. Director of Sales and Marketing at Town Hall Symphony Hall, Richard Loftus said; “My first interaction with this national multicultural newspaper was at their seventh anniversary, where The Phoenix’s ability to bring people together was evident by the audience alone. “I hope that with The Phoenix Newspaper’s support, this concert from Take 6 will do just that – bring people across Birmingham together through a cappella gospel music, so they can spread good news through song.” Take 6 will perform at Town Hall on Friday 20 July at 7:30pm. Tickets are priced £28, including £3 ticket commission. Tickets can be purchased via the THSH website, by calling 0121 780 3333 or at Symphony Hall box office.

Monthly views withTony Kelly

National Diabetes Week Monday 11 June to Sunday 17 June 2018

wo years ago in June 2016 I wrote my first monthly article about diabetes for the Phoenix newspaper so this month’s edition marks my second anniversary. With that being the case I always take the opportunity to focus on Diabetes Week as it is a time when the registered charity Diabetes UK with its supporters come together to share their stories and raise awareness of this medical condition. As one of the Diabetes UK Community Champion volunteers in the West Midlands I always try to do my bit via this medium which reaches so 29/05/2018 12:07 many readers. Talking about diabetes can be tricky, awkward, difficult, funny and everything in between. From telling someone you’ve just met about your diabetes, to trying to explain carb counting to relatives or avoiding that conversation with your doctor. This Diabetes Week the aim is to make it easier for people to have those conversations with their doctor, friends, family and others they have just

met. In July there is a one million step challenge that people can sign up for to increase their activity and also raise funds for Diabetes UK. It would be good if readers join in this worthwhile two pronged effort. Registration information • Free to register • No minimum sponsorship requirement; a target of £120 is suggested but please raise as much as you can. • One must be aged 18 or over to register and receive an online Tracker page. Children are welcome to join in with a parent or guardian but can’t formally register. Diabetes UK will support you: Before you get stepping, you’ll receive a welcome pack through the post which will include advice on increasing your steps, fundraising tips, a record card to log your steps and a sponsorship form. You will also get a 1 Million Steps Tracker, an online page where you can log your steps and keep a running total, collect virtual badges, keep track of your fundraising and share your progress with everyone

GDPR Regulations Help Still Available For All Businesses May 25 marked the official implementation day for GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation), which was implemented to enhance privacy for all individuals across the European Union, including EEA countries. Another primary motive is to further the control that citizens have over their personal data and how it is used by data collectors. Julie Cunningham, President of the Black Country Chamber of Commerce, said: “The multi-faceted nature of the GDPR regulations and their implementation means that specific questions for some sectors may not be included in general overviews. The Information Commissioners Office (ICO) website: ico. org.uk has a practical section containing useful links and a rundown of changes for specific sectors, including expanded guidance on data protection.

on Face book and Twitter.

How to count your steps?

Keeping on top of your steps using a Smartphone is the easiest way to track your activity. If help is needed to find the best walking app please phone 0345 123 2399 or email events. fundraising@diabetes.org.uk . One can also use a physical pedometer or activity tracker whilst there are other options at the Diabetes UK online shop. Do keep a log of your daily steps on your 1 Million Steps record card or Tracker website.

Why take part?

You’ll walk towards a healthier you and a future where diabetes can do no harm. At the moment it does too much. Each week thousands of people in the UK suffer heart attacks, heart failure, stroke, amputation and blindness because of their diabetes. But when people manage their diabetes well they can avoid these life-threatening complications and stay healthy. Diabetes UK provide information, care & support for everyone with diabetes – and for their family & friends – so they can manage their condition well. These campaigns improve life for people with diabetes while the research develops new treatments, technologies and will, one day, find a cure. Diabetes UK need help for this fundraising initiative so please step up for people with diabetes. www.diabetes.org,uk Tony Kelly Diabetes UK Community Champion Volunteer (West Midlands)

@PhoenixNewsUK

The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018 - Page 11

Advertorial Feature

resident and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Victoria Mutual (VM) Group, Courtney Campbell will be visiting the United Kingdom from June 15 – June 21, 2018 for the third Victoria Mutual President’s Tour. Campbell, along with Victoria Mutual’s CEO of Building Society Operations, Peter Reid will be engaging with VMBS Members, Jamaicans and friends of Jamaica, during a series of community meetings dubbed ‘Let’s Talk’. The VM executives will share news on how VMBS, which this year celebrates 140 years of operations, is improving to serve Members better, as well as information on investment opportunities in Jamaica. The town hall meetings will take place in Brixton on Friday, June 15 at the Lambeth Town Hall; Tottenham on Monday, June 18 at the Tottenham Town Hall; Birmingham on Wednesday, June 20 at The H Suite (Centennial Centre), Edgbaston and Manchester on Thursday, June 21 at the West Indian Sports and Community Centre, Westwood Street, Moss Side. These events will also feature representatives from Jamaican Government agencies, including; the National Land Agency; the Jamaica Customs Agency; the Registrar General’s Department; the Jamaican

High Commission and the Passport, Immigration and Citizenship Agency. This VM President’s Tour will take place during the week of the Windrush 70th anniversary celebrations in the UK, which is a significant milestone for Jamaicans and other persons of West Indian heritage. The MV Empire Windrush, which arrived at Tilbury Docks, Essex on June 22, 1948, brought workers from Jamaica and other Caribbean islands to meet the post-war labour shortages in the UK. The ship carried 492 passengers – many of them children. Those who arrived in the UK between 1948 and 1971 have been labelled the Windrush Generation. As executives of a Group with a storied history of its own and which has served many Members of the Windrush Generation and their families, Campbell and Reid will be participating in the 6th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference, on Saturday June 16 in Leeds, which is being held under the theme 'Staying Power: 70 Years of the Windrush Jamaican Diaspora'. The VM executives will be focusing on the landmark anniversary and the remarkable achievements of the generation of pioneering West Indians who changed the course of both British and Caribbean history. This is a fantastic opportunity to engage VM Group Leaders. For more information, call 0208-801-6777.

l Courtney Campbell, President & CEO

l Peter Reid, CEO Building Society Operations

thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 12 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018

g n i t o Prom xcellence E

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

Young Refugee Recognised with Major Award

university student and refugee was honoured with a prestigious award for her outstanding volunteering work with The Children’s Society. Maya Ghazal, from Perry Barr in Birmingham won an ‘Asian Women of Achievement Award’ for her outstanding contribution to the charity and volunteering work as a speaker and ambassador. Maya, 19, has been a volunteer speaker for The Chil-

dren’s Society for the last few years after arriving in the UK from Syria in 2015. Speaking no English then, she received help to settle and make new friends at the charity’s My Place project. After receiving support and quickly learning fluent English she decided to give something back and started training as a volunteer speaker and make others aware of the charity’s life-changing work. Ms. Ghazal represented The Children’s Society in the

Guardian’s Christmas appeal for child refugees which saw over £1.75 million donated to support child refugees. The £600,000 raised, the charity’s share of the total split with two other charities, will help keep its vital services for child refugees in the UK open. Last year she also won a ‘Diana Legacy Award’ – a national award for exceptional young people inspired by the late Princess Diana – presented to her by Princes William and Harry. She is currently at Brunel University studying Aviation Engineering with Pilot Studies. On receiving her ‘Asian Women of Achievement Award’ Maya said: “It feels fantastic to have won this award! “I’m really proud of my work with The Children’s Society and also for standing up for young refugees and migrants who live in the UK. The Children’s Society’s Chief Executive, Matthew Reed said: “We are thrilled that Maya has been recognised for her achievements and her volunteering work with us. We are so glad that after receiving help from us she went on to flourish and become a fantastic ambassador on our behalf. She is a true inspiration and so deserving of winning this award.”

Single Mom, Iesha, Inspires Millions after Graduating from Law School

nspiring graduation photos of a single mother with her five children have been going viral on social media. Iesha Champs, who recently receive her law degree, says she owes her success to her children. Iesha, 33, dreamt of being a lawyer since she was seven. However, a lot of things got in the way; “I really didn’t have any stable guidance. My mom was addicted to drugs. My dad was deceased.

What is OUR culture?

by Kesa Nkulu

he definition of culture, according to the teachings of the Bukongo; Culture is the expression of your soul, and your language is the principle vehicle of communication. Your culture/soul should be a reflexion of Cosmic consciousness working in complementarity and union. The culture of our Ancestors mirrored Cosmic consciousness and was therefore totally in tune with Nature/Cosmos. Our culture is our immune system protecting us against detrimental idea’s and practices that are external to our cultural teachings, practices and wellbeing. Knowledge of our culture, more importantly becoming a practitioner and who we perceive ourselves to be ‘identity’, will be what elevates our minds whilst healing it. The truth brings order and intelligence which balances and harmon-

izes and is a powerful medicine for the body and soul. Our Ancestors left us a Cosmic-blueprint hidden in our culture, this does not separate spiritual guidelines from order/politics for that would lead to CORRUPTION. Today the world has adopted a European financial, military and religious model that has led to the rise of Europe and the decline of much older systems of governance. Every Race has its own Patriarchs, Ancestors, Language etc. Which Race’s Ancestors and language do YOU use?

Basics of our Spirituality

For those of you wanting to learn more about your culture, language, practices and various other Africanisms, here are just a few; • Nimi was son of Ne Lukengo. The Great Archangel Ne Muanda Kongo made an alliance with Nimi.(The names of the Bukongo, author Muanda Ns emi) • The children bore by Mama Ngunu wife of KONGO Nimi were, Nsaku, Mpanzu and

Nzinga. • Nsaku represents the colour Blue. The gift of our Spirituality-Kinzambi (God’s divine Love ) = Zola, in the Kikongo kanguage. • Mpanzu represents Yellow. The gift of our Knowledge, Scientific and Technology, Kimazayu (God’s divine Intelligence) = Ngangu • Nzinga represents Red. The gift of our Power-Kimayala (God’s divine Capacity)= Lendo The Bukongo State: Man has a Divine Mission, to FUSE with the Cosmic conscience of God `AKONGO`. Intelligence is the ability to learn and understand. The Nature is the Creator in its billions of forms whether in the mineral, vegetable, animal or human kingdoms. Wisdom is self-judgement, self-discernment, self-knowledge. The Soul is YOUR Black-box that’s records everything you do and is made of celestial matter. Your Spirit is that which links

“And I was homeless,” she recalls. “I lived with friends or whoever would take me in. Then I got pregnant with the first of my five children, and things just went from there.” In the midst of all these, she said she even thought of resorting to suicide. She was grateful to the pastor who practically saved her life through a simple message; “Pastor Louise Holman called me one day and said that God told her to tell me to go back to school and get my GED, because that

you with everything. Rituals are used for connections, initiations and for ceremonies. Singing spiritual songs and dancing to a drum based rhythm helps to create the harmony necessary for the connection. The teachings of the Bukongo was kept alive by great Messengers and Prophets like Yaya Vita Kimpa, Mfumu Kimbangu and Ne Muanda Nsemi just to name a few.

The Kingdom of: KONGO DIA NTOTELA

At the decline of the Egyptian civilization, the Bena Kongo regrouped under the order of Ne Muanda Kongo speaking through the great Seer Mbemba Zulu, who was told to leave the head of Ekipata (Egypt) and go to the heart of Ekipata. • Led by Mbemba Zulu the Bena Kongo people left Ekipata for a land they called Dizimba (santuary/temple) which was Zimbabue. • After the death of Mbemba Zulu, Ne Muanda Kongo (God) devoted the Prophet Isanusi to become the leader of The Kongo People. • After Zimbabue led by The Prophetess Mama Mbangala,

lawyer I wanted to be, I’ll be it!” Iesha recalled. “I thought it was a little crazy because I was too old and I had three children with my fourth child on the way.” Definitely, while raising her five children, Champs enrolled back in school and eventually earned her GED from Houston Community College. She then went to Houston Community College, then the University of Houston-Downtown to get her Bachelor’s degree. “My children helped me review with flash cards while I cooked,” she said. “They would sit as a mock jury while I taught them what I learned that day. “And David, my eldest son, would gather his siblings, give them a snack, make them take a bath, gather their school clothes, all to make things easier for me. And I had no knowledge of him doing that until I went to do it!” Champs commissioned a set of photos to commemorate the achievement. “I took the pictures with my kids because they helped me through school. They’re graduating too!” she said.

The Kongo People entered the Kalahari desert. • In the year 320 of the era of the Fish led by The Prophet Nsakulu A Nkanda and the Bena Kongo , Kongo Dia Mpangala as built. • In 424 The Prophrt Kodi Mpuanga builds Kongo Dia Kuimba • Kongo Dia Ntotela was built in 690, era of the Fish, led by The Prophet Lukeni, and the Bena Kongo. 691 saw the end of the construction by the Great Craftsman Masema Ntoko. • Kongo Dia Ntotela comprised of: Kongo, Angola, Cameroun, Namibia, Gabon, Central African Republic, Botswana. Together they formed The Union of Ntimansi. • Mbanza Kongo, literally means ‘The City of God’ which was the Capital. • In 1885 at the Berlin conference Africa was divided into separate regions/countries, but before this date there were no frontiers or boundaries as we know them today. • Mbanza Kongo was destroyed by the Portuguese invaders in the 15th Century. Extrait from, Names of the

Bakongo, Author Ne Muanda Nsemi. The Bakongo migrated south and maintained their spiritual symbolism and practice, as we can clearly see in these images. Bika Lusakumunu Batata Ba Mpungu Tulendo Lua Sikila mu Ngeye = Let the blessings of the Almighty be upon you… Ingeta

@PhoenixNewsUK

The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018 - Page 13

Music Star Swaps World Stage for School Stage to Surprise Students

nternational recording artist and Birmingham star, Lady Sanity, returned to her former secondary school to surprise students with an exclusive performance. The acclaimed rapper - who wowed audiences across the world at the closing ceremony of the Commonwealth Games in Australia – took to the school stage to inspire a new generation and to share her happy memories of Stockland Green School. Lady Sanity, real name Sherelle Robbins, was a student at the school – now part of the Arthur Terry Learning Partnership (ATLP) - from 2005 to 2010. During her visit, she talked about her journey to musical fame as she was being interviewed by head students Cara Long, Lillie Robinson, Akash Hussain, Anaum Tabassum, Reiss Munn and Nikola Polaka, in front of years 7,8 and 9. She described her happy memories of Stockland Green School and how the support and encouragement she had from staff set her on the road to success.

l Lady Sanity takes centre stage with headteacher Marie George and Stockland Green students

For authentic Jamaican foods, look out for our ‘Made in Jamaica’ badge! TropicalSunFoods.com

As well as performing her latest track to an appreciative audience, she answered questions from enthusiastic and excited students and encouraged them to work hard and to show determination to achieve their dreams. Lady Sanity, a music technology graduate of De Monfort Univeristy in Leicester, happily told staff and students: “It’s great to be back at Stockland Green where I have so many happy memories. “The friends I made here are still my friends now and inspired me to become successful.” Headteacher, Marie George, said: “What a fantastic surprise for us all and enormous thanks to Sherelle – her stellar performance raised the roof on the school hall and really made the children’s day. “With her positive experiences of school and impressive career, she is an excellent role model for these young people, demonstrating the rewards of talent, ambition and hard work. We hope she will return to Stockland Green as she has a real fan club here – students and staff alike!” Lady Sanity’s talent led to her being chosen to represent her home city of Birmingham in the handover ceremony of the 2018 Commonwealth Games. Her smash hit ‘Go the Distance’ tells the story of tackling challenges head on while staying true to yourself and the people around you.

Page 14 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018

The Phoenix Celebrates its 8th Anniversary! T PN Media in Association with The West Midlands Reserve Forces and Cadets is proud to announce its 8th Anniversary Gala Dinner and Awards Presentation 2018. “By pledging to serve the common good in new ways, we can ensure that the Commonwealth continues to grow in scope and stature, to have an even greater impact on people’s lives, today, and for future generations.” – Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II The message above was given by our Queen for Commonwealth Day 2018, a day when the 53 nations are united in celebrating everything the Commonwealth stands for. With the Commonwealth Games in Australia’s Gold Coast now over, and the Games flag and proverbial baton passed over to none other than Birmingham ahead of their games here in 2022, there has been no greater time than now for communities from across the Commonwealth to come together in celebration. As a champion for inclusion, celebrating the melting pot of people that this great city and country has become, The Phoenix Newspaper has worked hard over the last 8 years to Connect Communities and

Inspire a New Generation. Now in our 8th year, we are celebrating the Commonwealth, Women in Business, and the promotion of inclusion as key themes for this years event. We are proud to announce that our Keynote Speaker on the night is Mayor of the West Midlands, Mr Andy Street. The Phoenix Newspaper 8th Anniversary Gala Dinner and Awards Presentation will take place at the ICC in Birmingham on the 30th November 2018. This year we will also be recognising our Armed Forces and Police. These men and women have made pledges to protect the people of our country and do so daily, and the increasing diversity in these roles are not only representative of the general public at large who they serve, but is indicative of a testament to inclusion and diversity across the organisations, which will extend all the way to the top. Many of these individuals are descendants of the Windrush Generation, making it fitting to salute their inclusion on the night. 2018 is also a landmark 70th Anniversary for the Windrush and

thephoenixnewspaper.com

70 Years of The NHS the NHS. Both the Windrush Generation and the extraordinary NHS staff, past and present will be recognised. On 22nd June 1948 the SS Empire Windrush arrived at Tilbury docks carrying passengers from across the Caribbean. Invited to assist with post-war reconstruction by Britain, the 'Windrush Generation' have helped to shape all aspects of British life, from cultural and social to political. In light of the recent scandal, it has never been a more fitting time to recognise the legacy of these pioneers and celebrate all that they have done for us. The NHS has delivered huge medical advances and improvements to health worldwide since its incep-

8 in association with presents

8th Anniversary Gala Dinner & Awards

30.11.18 Tickets via

70th Anniversary

phoenixgalaawards2018.eventbrite.com

tion and has become the envy of the world. From all but eradicating diseases like polio and diphtheria, to pioneering new treatments like the world's first liver, heart and lung transplant, it has been at the forefront of innovation, driven by the wonderful Doctors, Nurses, Researchers and more that work their hearts out to help others, many of whom came from the Caribbean as part of the ‘Windrush Generation’ including our very own Editor In Chief Marcia McLaughlin. As a mark of recognition, we are also highlighting our Faith Leaders in order to recognise the support that the Phoenix Newspaper has had, working with these organisations, making it the first publication that is accepted by all churches and places of worship. The flag of diversity is one that sits in the hearts and minds of the British people, in particular our reigning Queen, Elizabeth II, for whom the Commonwealth is everything, as she said in her Commonwealth Day Message – “There is a very special value in the insights we gain through the Commonwealth connection; shared inheritances help us overcome difference so that diversity is a cause for celebration rather than division.” This years event promises to bring world leaders, High Ranking Military Officials, Governors, dignitaries and specially invited guests together under the same roof to celebrate a newspaper that follows through with its promises. Producing a free, non-biased publication monthly, both in print and online, it has taken the best part of these 8 years for all communities to understand what we are doing. But now everyone knows that there is no hidden motive. Everyone knows that we are working hard to Connect Communities, and everyone knows that The Phoenix Newspaper is the Truth Newspaper. An international newspaper with a local heart, The Phoenix promotes Positive, Informative and Objective news, locally, nationally and internationally through its daily online updates, weekly newsletter and monthly free print and online publication. There are a variety of sponsorship opportunities available to suit a wide range of budgets, and sponsors from all sectors are welcome, contact TPN Media on 0121 339 5885 or email galadinnerandawards@tpnmediauk.com for more information. SAVE THE DATE.

The Army

The RAF

The Navy

@PhoenixNewsUK

The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018 - Page 15

Nominations Are Open!

8th Anniversary Gala Awards • Championing Diversity Award Army Navy RAF Thames Valley Police • Peoples Choice Award Phyllis Peters Robert Walters • Community Engagement Award Pamela Franklin Symphony Hall • Business of the Year Award The Prince’s Trust NDH Care • Charity Of The Year Award St Mary’s Hospice • Faith Connection Award Church of God of Prophecy

• Education Excellence Award HolyHead School Wiggles and Giggles Day Nursery • Leadership And Empowerment Award Deiwight Peters • Entrepreneur Of The Year Award Georgina Mendez Truchio Powell • Sporting Hero Award Mark Walters • Veteran Award Von Reid • Editors Award • Lifetime Achievement Award

Send Us: 1 The name of your nominee 2 Which award you are nominating them for 3 Contact information for the nominee 4 A brief explanation as to why you feel they should be shortlisted

Email: galadinnerandawards@thephoenixnewspaper.com

thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 16 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018

Faye Pressly Promoting Diversity in Hi Tech Industry

ith years of experience in advising some of the fastest growing start-ups and innovative companies in the Midlands, Faye Pressly possesses some of the most unique talent strategies to help to attract, engage, retain and develop the very best technology and digital talent out there. She recently joined Vanti, a Birmingham-based technology business, to help them continue their journey of growth and expansion to becoming a key technology scale-up business in the Midlands. As Chief Operating Officer, her team of expert solution architects, engineers, developers, and project managers build digital experiences for clients from London to Qatar, and beyond – with a very down-to-earth, easy going nature and passion for doing things differently.

For the multi award winning University of Leeds alma mater, leading an ever-expanding team, who, themselves, are winning international awards and working on a growing list of multi-million pound international projects “Helping to drive a more diverse technology workforce in the Midlands is a huge passion of mine,” Faye said. “It’s not about employers having a ‘tick-box’ mind set to diversity, but truly appreciating that ‘diversity in thought’ is far more important and key to business innovation and people growth.” Often highlighting the core ‘Vanti Values,’ she continues; “Unless, however, we break down some of the barriers and proactively work to improve and widen the pools we can choose our talent from things will only remain the same. To be able to work with likeminded,

determined people helping to drive real change, is something I’m incredibly proud of – I can’t wait to look back in a few years’ time and see just how many people we’ve inspired to join our industry.” It’s her/their unique empathy that is the drives that seek out opportunities to provide help, where called on, and support causes and initiatives they believe in. Vanti will remain one of the UK’s most innovative Master System Integrators, leading the way when it comes to Smart Buildings, and internationally award-winning creators of exceptional digital experiences for people who want to work, learn, live and play in smart spaces. “We find and hired many of our team from local universities like; Birmingham City University, Warwick University and Aston University,” Faye proudly says, “as well as technology and coding clubs and tech communities such as Innovation Birmingham and Silicon Canal. Where we have hired experienced team members, we’ve always found good quality people within the West Midlands who share our values and have added to the business in so many ways, other than just for the role they were hired for. By taking a longer-term approach to recruitment for our technology teams in Birmingham, we’re gradually starting to build an incredibly solid, talented and most importantly diverse and inclusive team of amazing people.” Faye Pressly is another example of a ‘woman of excellence’ rising to the challenges in her careers, as she guides and assists companies and organisations to develop more effective strategies for attracting, retaining and promoting a more diverse workforce to senior levels in the tech industry.

Beautiful Fresh Flowers

Prepared Especially For YOU

y prepared Weddings FRESH Birthdays flowers Funeralsespecially Thank You’s for you Retirements Memorials & More! l

Weddings Birthdays Funerals Thank You’s 18this Years the Retro FloralHandmade Arena Retirements NEW yearin 2017 Glass Vases for ALL Occasions 0121 454 4455 Memorials www.misslilysflowers.co.uk Studio 15, Northside Business Centre, 2 Wellington Street, Birmingham, B18 4NR

55 WWW.MISSLILYSFLOWERS.CO.UK

@PhoenixNewsUK

The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018 - Page 17

Music fashion Film Gadgets holiday education health and fitness

JUNE 2018

Tynee THE NEXT GENERATION ACT HEADLINES STREETCRED TENT @ SHARDFEST Partners With

/streetcredmagazine

28 + 29 July 2018

www.streetcredmagazine.com

thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 18 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018

ENTERTAINMENT

www.streetcredmagazine.com

THE HOTTEST ENTERTAINMENT SUPPLEMENT

/streetcredmagazine

Editors note

elcome t o another exciting edition of Street Cred, this month i have personally handpicked over 43 artists to perform in the Street Cred Next Generation Marquee at Shardfest 2018! I will also be the main host on stage and performing brand new material from my It Aint Over Till Its Over 10 track EP! Shardfest has fast become the biggest

community music festival in our city which will have an attendance of 12,000 people. Street Cred represents all what the festival is about and that is platforming new talent to the masses. We as a magazine always encourage independance and branding for the youth and I am proud to be be apart of this forward movement that also promotes multi cultures connecting through music in Birmingham.

www.streetcredmagazine.com

/markdwaynemedia Get ready for Street Cred Next Generation Marquee at Shardfest celebrating 21 years as the no 1 cutting edge magazine brand from Birmingham with international readership. On the weekend we will have great entertainment and some the best business stalls to exhibit around our tent. For more information and tickets go to www. shardfest.co.uk instagram.com/ markdwaynemedia

StandOutWithMe

he multicoloured coats are handmade in Birmingham by Disorder. Tisharna is a brand ambassador for Stand Out With Me and is a Birmingham based up and coming model whom has modelled for many brands and taken part in a variety of fashion shows. Tammy is a plus size model and

performing new single

'BACK IT UP'

the founder of Stand Out With Me which is a new clothing brand aiming to not just dress your size but shape too. Head there to add that black dress to your wardrobe. Casual wear for men and women coming soon with the first male hoodie just launched which can be seen on Tisharna, who shows that women can rock male fashion too.

@PhoenixNewsUK

The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018 - Page 19

ENTERTAINMENT

www.streetcredmagazine.com

Stomp Shines AT Hippodrome

Breakdancing W & Beats at B-SIDE

i r m i n g h a m Hippodrome coproduced a jampacked free Hip-Hop festival at the theatre and in the Southside streets from Monday 7th to Sun 13th May. Across a week of festival fun, there were dance competitions, rap battles and family-friendly workshops, plus graffiti and street art – set to the sounds of the festival from live DJs and MCs. Now in its third year, B-SIDE

Hip-Hop Festival attracted a wide audience of Hip-Hop fans and novices alike from around the world. As well as the usual programme of events, new to this year’s festival, was a HipHop game show where people tested their Hip-Hop knowledge and competed with friends. There were also opportunities for budding creatives to learn from the professionals with artist development labs, artist talks

and master classes with Hip-Hop pioneers such as Henry Link. The festival also included B-SIDE school workshops at key schools in the Midlands, which are part of the Hippodrome Education Network. Festival directors ran workshops in Graffiti art and breakdancing for all school years. Birmingham Hippodrome partnered with festival directors Break Mission, Juice Aleem, Mickael Riviére and

Find your inner Zen with The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience

f you’re on a quest to find your Zen, ‘The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience’ has released exclusive, limited-availability tickets to yoga classes in both its Manchester and London attractions to help you feel calm, cool and focused this summer. ‘The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience’ is encouraging all to wave goodbye to the gruelling gym and try something new that still keeps you active in a cool setting. From only £25 per person, book into one of its unique classes, only available on the 16th, 23rd and 30th June, and find your inner peace whilst having a giggle with your friends at the same time. Crystals are commonly used in meditation to channel energy, promote healing and to feel connected – what better crystal for the job than the iconic crystal dome? Classes commence at 8am and will leave you feeling that little bit smug that you’ve started off your day right. You’ll even receive a souvenir Crystal Maze crystal (retail price of £10.00) to prove it to your friends and family. With only 40 places per class, experience a full 60 minutes of tranquillity and peace taught by yoga industry professionals in the unique setting of the iconic

Crystal Maze dome. Experienced yoga instructor and head of yoga at London-based studio ‘FLY LDN,’ Fiona Clark, said: “I am so passionate about the importance of letting yourself relax in today’s hectic world. I’m incredibly excited to be leading the ‘Crystal Maze LIVE’

yoga class in London as everyone can benefit from a little R&R.” Before you get lost in the bliss, it is advised that you arrive early to make sure you have time to snap that all important picture for the ‘gram to make your followers envious.

GraffitiArtisit.com to produce B-SIDE Hip-Hop Festival.

ell, they threw everything at it… including the proverbial kitchen sink…when ‘Stomp’ arrived at the Birmingham Hippodrome Theatre. From matchstick boxes to shopping trollies, brooms to paint tins, dust bins and lids and cigarette lighters, you would be defied to not be mesmerised by what was put together. A finely-tuned chorographical production – the likes of which you’d have to go far and wide to see any better - by the 8-piece ensemble

proved provocative, engaging, enlightening and simply fantastic! In-tune melodic beats, the kind that make you want dance to, proved the most bizarre but enjoyable sounds crafted from the most mundane of objects. Birmingham Hippodrome was alive with the sounds of…well, everyday items, in fact. The 105-minute percussion showpiece and tribal-like dancing, simple in perception, but hugely complex in production, for the unsuspecting theatre-goer, this proved a ‘Stomp’-ingly great show that, blink and you’ll miss it.

thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 20 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018

ENTERTAINMENT

www.streetcredmagazine.com

BIGScreen

review

wORDS by antony brown

fter surviving a near fatal bovine attack, a disfigured cafeteria chef (Wade Wilson) struggles to fulfil his dream of becoming Mayberry's hottest bartender while also learning to cope with his lost sense of taste. Searching to regain his spice for life, as well as a flux capacitor, Wade must battle ninjas, the Yakuza, and a pack of sexually aggressive canines, as he journeys around the world to discover the importance of family, friendship, and flavour - finding a new taste for adventure and earning the coveted coffee mug title of World's Best Lover. This was the official plot synopsis released by Twentieth Century Fox last year. Seriously, Google it if you don’t believe me. Anyway, while it doesn’t reflect the actual plot of the movie (shock!) it does give you an inkling of the kind of insane, ballsto-the-wall experience you’ll be gifted with when you sit down to watch Deadpool 2.

The more accurate, and arguably less interesting plot synopsis is this; Foul-mouthed mutant mercenary Wade Wilson (AKA. Deadpool), brings together a team of fellow mutant rogues to protect a young boy with supernatural abilities from the brutal, time-traveling cyborg, Cable. The first Deadpool was a mind-blowing success, grossing over $780 Million on a meagre $58 Million budget and going on to be both critically and commercially adored by movie-goers all over the world. It was an event that felt like lightning in a bottle — a one-off experience that couldn’t be replicated. However, Deadpool 2 takes everything the world loved about the original and cranks it to eleven — resulting in a sequel that’s bigger, funnier, gorier and more action packed with some great new characters and a

hell of a lot of heart. The trademark foulmouthed Deadpool humour remains intact

and he’s more scathing than ever. NOTHING IS SAFE. Deadpool takes endless shots at other superhero movies, specific characters, TV shows, filmmakers, politicians. Nothing is off the table and it’s freeing to watch. However, what sets this movie apart fro its predecessor is that it isn’t afraid to let the comedy take a backseat in service of some genuinely heartfelt and emotional scenes, and while things never stay too deep for too long, its actually in these moments that Deadpool 2 really shines. This isn’t a movie about Deadpool cracking jokes while chopping off people’s heads — although it still has that by the bucket-load — it’s a movie with a real story and real stakes that take this franchise to unexplored territory in terms of the kind of person Wade Wilson really is behind the jokes and the bravura. You’ll honestly be surprised

ossa Studios, the crazy people that brought us Surgeon Simulator and I Am Bread have done it again, but this time, removing the rage-inducing part of their gameplay! Worlds Adrift is truly a game like no other. With over 10,000 community-created designs submitted, Worlds Adrift launches with nearly 300 floating islands, nearly all of which have been created by a community member. You can run, jump, grapple and swing your way around islands, looking for new information, and gathering crafting materials from the world around you. The movement is fluid and intuitive, if a little finicky to master, but more than anything, it is just FUN.

how emotionally invested you’ll be in a movie in which the main character is making penis jokes every five minutes. It’s pretty well established now that Ryan Reynolds was born to play Deadpool. It’s difficult to think of any other actor being able to bring what he brings to the character and, considering this is only his second official appearance as this version of the character, that’s a real testament to his passion for Deadpool. He’s the perfect amount of charming, likeable, funny and downright disgusting, all while having a huge heart under that skin-right red suit. There are also some fantastic new additions to the cast. Josh Brolin is absolutely fantastic as Cable; a physically imposing badass who really lives up to his comic-book counterpart, hilariously delivering his dialogue with a deadpan sincerity while also

But once you’ve had enough of that kind of fun, you’re able to have a different kind of fun. To get to other islands, you need transportation, so get going by building your own ship. As you gather knowledge you’ll be able to upgrade from sails to engines, bigger hulls that can hold heavier ships, arm them to the teeth with guns and jazz them up with decorations. Having only just come into Early Access, there is a long way to go for Worlds Adrift, but from what is shown here, the future is very very promising. We’ve got a couple of copies of the game on Steam to give away to our lucky readers, so if this tickes your fancy then get entering now!

having quite an emotional arc in the movie. Then there’s the wonderful 15-year-old New Zealander Julian Dennison as the mutant Firefist, whom Deadpool is tasked with protecting. If you’ve ever seen Thor: Ragnarok director Taika Waititi’s Hunt for the Wilderpeople (2016) then you’ll already know that this kid has impeccable comic timing that transcends his youth and, if I was a betting man, I’d wager that he has a long and successful career in comedy ahead of him. He’s an absolute delight in this movie with enough clout to perfectly balance both comedy and emotion. However, Zazie Beetz is the real surprise here as Domino — she’s endlessly charming and infinitely likeable, often delivering a scene stealing performance with her quirky personality and her adorable nonchalance while embroiled in life-threatening situations. Another big surprise about Deadpool 2 is that just when you have a pretty good idea of where you think the movie is going, it goes in the opposite direction. It throws curveball after curveball, resulting in some genuinely shocking moments, whether that be comedic or emotionally impactful, and it’s one of those rare movies where even if you’ve seen all of the trailers, you’ll pretty much know nothing about the movie. Oh and one more thing, and this cannot be overstated, Deadpool 2 absolutely blows it out of the water when it comes to post-credits content; the audience ERUPTED. However, a little forewarning for you — do not stay until the very end of the credits, because there’s nothing there. So, I guess it’s more accurate to call it mid-credits content, after which you can bail, unless you want to stay for a vaguely humorous original song at the very end, or you just want to stay and pay your respects to the thousands of wonderful and talented people who worked on this movie. Deadpool 2 is everything a second-instalment should be and in the weird and wonderful world of movie sequels, Deadpool 2 is honestly up there with some of the best.

COMPETITION For your chance to win a copy of Worlds Adrift for PC, answer this simple question!

Finish the tagline of Worlds Adrift: “Explore, ________, Unite!” a) Conquer b) Destroy c) Build Just email your answer, with your name and contact number to competitions@thephoenixnewspaper.com with the subject “Worlds Adrift Competition”. Competition closes at 23.59 on 20th June 2018. There is no cash alternative.

@PhoenixNewsUK

The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018 - Page 21

unisia beckons us to visit– and with flights now operating from the UK for the first time since the 2015 – they are welcoming us with open arms. A short 2 and a half hour flight with no time change at the moment (thanks to BST) sees you arrive at Tunis Carthage International Airport to the sun and warmth of this beautiful country. However, even the sun cannot outshine the warmth of the people here. They truly know the meaning of the word “welcome”. I was a little apprehensive about travelling here but from the moment you arrive the genuine smiles of the Tunisians embraces you and makes you feel instantly safe and secure. French, Arabic and English are the spoken languages, and even if their English isn’t good, they are desperate to learn and will try hard to speak it. This trip was all about the capital Tunis, a bustling and vibrant city with over 2 million residents. You’d be mistaken to think you have arrived in Paris due to the influence of the French culture and architecture. A former French colony until 1956 allows you to believe you are strolling down the Avenue des Champs-Élysées when in fact you are on the main Avenue HabIb Bourguiba. This city has style and culture, but also means business. This is a city that has many hotels, a frequent tram service, designer shops, tourist attractions and tons of cafes where you see businessmen at work or locals and tourists sipping coffee and watching the world go by. You could use the words “Tres Chic”. For more insights into Tunis, check out the full feature on the Street Cred Magazine website!

Escape to Tunisia

l Gary Barlow and Special Guests play Symphony Hall this month

BIRMINGHAM O2 ACADEMY

Photo: Jules Annan

Royal Cellist, Sheku, Heading Birmingham Classical Season

s the third year of Birmingham Classical, hosted in two of the finest concert halls in the world, Town Hall Symphony Hall strives to reflect the glorious diversity of the city with a distinctive programme of internationally renowned orchestras, recitals and chamber concerts featuring some of the world’s biggest classical music stars. THSH will continue to add events to Birmingham Classical as the year unfolds. Those booking 3+ concerts at a time can enjoy great discounts, but as concerts are added you can enjoy an accumulative discount – a flexible way of ensuring that the more you book, the more you save. In a continuing effort to make classical music in Birmingham accessible, THSH is delighted to announce a brand-new £5 ticket for Under 30s – available at all Birmingham Classical 2018/19 concerts. In addition, this season will offer thousands of tickets for £12.50 or less, as well as our long-standing ‘Kids Go Free’ offer and discounted tickets for school groups at every event. Keep in touch by checking the

ENTERTAINMENT

www.streetcredmagazine.com

website or the ‘What’s On Classical’ brochure or sign up to be among the first to know of any new events being announced. Richard Hawley, Head of Artistic Programming, said: “Birmingham Classical continues to strive to reflect the city’s glorious diversity, enabling even more music for more people, provides more opportunities for audience to connect with those onstage, and ensures that music in the city remains vibrant, relevant and accessible. “Whether you are just starting out on your discovery of classical music, or are a seasoned attender, we look forward to welcoming you to two of the finest concert halls in the world.” 19-year-old cellist, the exciting young talent that is Sheku Kanneh-Mason – who performed at the wedding of the now Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle – has already brought his character, flair and confident musicianship to his solo recital at Town Hall. "It was such an awesome moment,” said the BBC’s 2016 Young Musician of the Year and student at the Royal Academy of Music. “Just really incredible to perform for Prince Harry and

June 01 Nick Heyward 02 Matchboy 02 The Beat Starring Dave Wakeling 03 G-Eazy 06 Camila Cabello 08 Mo Gilligan 08 Catapult Club feat. Ali Gilbert 12 Doug Stanhope 12 Zach Said 14 Who We Be 16 The Hodgetwins 16 Open Arms 20 M Huncho 21 Starcrawler 21 Billy Idol 22 Catapult Club feat. Seventh Syndicate 23 The Heretic Order 27 Tyler Bryant & The Shakedown 29 Catapult Club feat. Broken Lungs 30 Ashen Crown 30 Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley 30 Kate Voegele and Tyler Hilton

TOWN HALL & SYMPHONY HALL

June 01-03 UK Games Expo 02-03 Film & Comic Con Birmingham Collectormania 25 08-19 Aug Real Bodies The Exhibition 14-17 BBC Gardeners’ World Live 14-17 BBC Good Food Show 22-23 The Autism Show 25-26 UCAS Birmingham higher education exhibition 29-01 Jul The Creative Craft Show

ARENA BIRMINGHAM

SLADE ROOMS, WOLVERHAMPTON

June 01 Stamina 02 ROY WOOD$ 08 Courtney Act - Under The Covers 14 NOFX 19 J.I.D & Earthgang 23 SoundWaves Music Competition UK 29 Paradox 30 Tremonti

NEC

return to Birmingham to perform his 2015 ‘Peshkar,’ a tabla concerto commissioned by India’s National Centre of Performing Arts. This season with the European Concert Hall Organisation, Town Hall Symphony Hall continues to celebrate young and exceptional artists with artists nominated for the European Concert Hall Organisation’s Rising Stars programme. In addition to the work with ECHO, the Birmingham Classical 18/19 season welcomes a further 10 individuals and ensembles under the age of 30.

June 02 GLORY 54 16 Hollywood Vampires 26 Flight Of The Conchords

01 The Shires (SH) 02 The Salvation Army - Symphony Sounds (SH) 02 Classical Opera - La finta semplice (TH) 05 Marti Pellow (SH) 06 Mozarts Jupiter (SH) 06 Sonic Youth Slept On My Floor – An Evening With Dave Haslam (TH) 08 Best Of Bollywood (SH) 09 Keep Fit Association Move To The Rhythm (SH) 11 Symphony Hall Tour (SH) 11 Nouvelle Vague (TH) 12 Celebrating Family Carers (SH) 13 Volkov Conducts Brahms (SH) 13 An Evening with Pete Waterman (TH) 14-15 Gary Barlow (SH) 15 The Life & Rhymes of Benjamin Zephaniah (TH) 17 David Byrne (SH) 17 RAF in Concert (TH) 18 George Benson In Concert (SH) 19 Sheryl Crow (SH) 20 Music of Life Celebration Concert (TH) 22 Windrush: A free celebratory concert (TH) 22 Zimmer vs Williams (SH) 23 Monski Mouse’s Baby Disco Dance Hall (TH) 23 Pelléas et Mélisande (SH) 23 An Evening with Tony Iommi (TH) 24 Zimmer vs Williams (SH) 24 WNO Family Concert (TH) 25 Travis (SH) 27-28 Nicola Benedetti Shostakovich (SH) 28 Caitlin Moran (TH) 30 2018 Birmingham International Piano Competition - The Final (TH) 30 Last Night of the Summer Proms (SH)

O2 INSTITUTE

Meghan at their wedding. What a privilege to be able to play the cello at such a wonderful event." It is also always a special occasion when an international orchestra perform in Symphony Hall for the first-time – this season boasts 18 Birmingham debuts. On 19 February 2019, the Symphony Orchestra of India will perform in the UK for the first time since their founding in 2006 in an evening that culminates in Rimsky-Korsakov’s ‘Scheherazade.’ Before that, tabla master Zakir Hussain makes a long-awaited

GENTING ARENA

June 02 Bill Bailey 12 Demi Lovato 16-17 Trampoline & Tumbling Regional Team Finals & NDP Qualifier 2018 18 Katy Perry 20 Lenny Kravitz

June 06 Ben Hanlin 10 VITAL’s Clean Hearts Only Show 15 Wolvcoll Presents Live, Loud & Local 18 Denny Strickland 23 The Dualers

thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 22 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018

ENTERTAINMENT

www.streetcredmagazine.com

Blank Kanvas – Local boy with a big dream that proves dreams come true!

fter signing with Ecko Records in 2005, BK has gone from strength to strength, from warming up in Moon Lounge & Premonition with DJ Hyper (RIP) to touring South Africa, residencies in Ibiza, playing in Belgium, Napa, Australia, and Canada amongst so many others. To playing on Rinse FM with

A UK legend Marcus Nasty, being introduced on the BBC & performing a live lounge of his new single with Vianne, Cloud 9 on BBC radio live to over 100k people with his band. He’s recently just signed with one of the UK’s biggest labels, Tom Zanetti’s ‘Sleepin’ is Cheatin’ and also Warner Music. His release credits are speed garage classic ‘what a night’ (ecko

fabulous next Generation DJ Line up for the fastest growing Festival in Brum. A selection of the finest club DJ’s Birmingham and the West Midlands have to offer are to play at the massive Shardfest headlined by Bugzy Malone Artful Dodger So Solid Crew Sonique DJ Luck and Neat and many others. The line up is pretty tasty with residents from top brands such as Tin Tins, Zante Shutdown, Seksy Sundays, Sugasuite, Chic to name but a few.

2005) Kymberley Myles – Give it to me. Marika Diamond – Weekend lover, Amnesia – Pums Huge, Amnesia & Slick Don – Pums huffle, Hooligan Dance plus many more! Catch Blank Kanvas return to Birmingham Sunday 29th July for a massive headline Streetcred Shardfest performance.

000Bars is a Flint, Michigan native and Legend in his city. He is also known as Thou now! He is A father of 2, director, artist and a college graduate. Thou has been doing music since middle school, and have fell in Love with process of creating. He’s been doing music over 15years. He also has series out called “810 Trap” …810 is Flint Michigan’s area code. Here’s what he had to say: “810Trap was created from me wanting to experiment with a new DSLR camera I purchased like 8 years ago. I figured I wanted to make my own film and that’s what I did. I used people I knew and were close with to do all the acting and I did all the filming and editing. That’s how 810Trap was created and to this day we have over a million views and counting. We are currently on our third segment of 810Trap which is available on our YouTube channel right now (FamoverrichesTV).” He says everyone should be on the lookout for the 810Trap

1000Bars

soundtrack that will be released digitally on iTunes and all digital sites this summer. Also be on the lookout for Thou’s ep “ALL iN 5”. He and his team are also in the process of finalizing another film

titled “Wasted”, with NBA sports writer Eric Woodyard. They plan to start filming in July 2018. Please subscribe to FamOverRichesTV channel on YouTube and check him out! Thank you!

@PhoenixNewsUK

The

The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018 - Page 23

Royal Wedding

Prince Harry

and

Meghan Markle

One Love CONGRATULATIONS FROM THE PHOENIX NEWSPAPER

thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 24 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018

Nation Together T

he day couldn’t have been more beautiful as The Phoenix team set off for Windsor on the morning of Saturday 19th May 2018 with the early rays of sunshine beaming through the windows of the train. There were extra trains and free buses to ferry people from nearby Slough and Paddington to Windsor to ensure a good flow of people. Considering the estimated 100,000 people that descended on Windsor for this Royal Occasion, it must be said that the journey to the event, if not the journey from the event, on public transport was well coordinated, with frequent announcements and directions on every train and at every station from Birmingham to Windsor, and even though the queue seemed humongous at Slough, snaking its way through the barrier system that had been set up to manage the crowds, everything moved freely and quickly and people were soon on their way. Gifts of free water, sunscreen, treats and more for all travelling to Windsor were gratefully received as it quickly became apparent that the

day would turn out to be a heatwave. Everyone including our talkshow Queen Oprah Winfrey had to ride on a bus! She also had to have a new dress fitted and made by the Stella McCartney team at very short notice due to an almost massive fashion faux pas! After securing our spot with the BBC film crew, a stroll around the roads was in order, soaking up the atmosphere that Windsor had on offer for this giant wedding. The Phoenix met with two ladies who had flown in the night before from USA and camped overnight to secure their special location to even catch a glimpse of Prince Charming and his delightful rose. The event was an absolutely magical day, especially in the crowds lining the streets of Windsor to support them. The Phoenix Newspaper would like to send its sincere thanks and support for a fairytale wedding unfolding in realtime in front of us. The visit was worth every moment, from the comradeship in the crowds to the international visitors and locals standing side by side. We

stood with people from America, the Philippines, Canada, Africa and more. You name it and they were there! Stars from both sides of the pond including George and Amal Clooney, David and Victoria Beckham, Serena Williams and Alexis Ohanian, Idris Elba and Sabrina Dhowre, James Corden and Julia Carey, Charlotte Riley and Tom Hardy were in attendance. Love Fire was the feel of the day, everyone was singing from the same hymn sheet and it was evident that this was a couple truly in love with great responsibilities ahead of them. They are going to be awesome together if they just remember the ‘fire’. Praise also must go to the dutiful police officers that were brought in from up and down the country that lined the streets like human walls. It is at times like this that make you recognise and applaud the people who protect us so diligently. They did their duties with dignity and ‘fire’. On the day, we saw Prince Charles in his role as a father, and the very

@PhoenixNewsUK

The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018 - Page 25

Duchess of Sussex to follow in the footsteps of Queen Sophia

r As ‘One Heart’ kind gesture as he offered to walk Meghan down the second half of the aisle. He demonstrated a deep love for his son, and an open arm invitation to his new daughter in law. Meghan’s dress was designed by Clare Waight Keller for Givenchy and the veil represented all 53 Commonwealth Countries, featuring distinctive flora from each country showing how important the Commonwealth is to the extended Royal Family as well as the Queen. Meghan’s mother, Doria was a solitary pillar of strength on the day, sitting alone anticipating her daughters arrival. Her poise, respectfulness and humility was admirable on what must have been a joyous but difficult day. The crowds listened to the service over the loudspeaker, and those lucky enough to be near a screen or have data to watch on their phones marvelled at the spectacle going on inside just a few hundred metres away, before everyone lining the route burst into rapturous applause as the happy couple were pronounced man and wife.

And that was it, the catalyst that caused an audible buzz in the crowd as they knew that it was only a matter of minutes until they would get a glimpse in person of the new Duke and Duchess of Sussex as the crowd joined in with Stand By Me. First just a ripple, a few people here and there, before a Mexican Wave of sound and energy started further up the road at the bend and this erupted into a cacophony of screaming, shouting and cheering as the procession made its way towards where The Phoenix was. As the beautiful Windsor Grey horses processed past along with the traveling Escort of the Household Cavalry Regiment, which was Harry’s army regiment, you couldn’t help but be taken in by the moment. With sparkling helmets and swords in hand as they approached, The Phoenix Newspaper Editor In Chief Marcia McLaughlin who spoke with Meghan in Birmingham on their recent visit shouted “BIRMINGHAM!” which caught both Prince Harry and Meghan’s attention as they turned, locked

eyes with a smile of recognition and waved as the carriage rounded the bend and continued on its parade path to its classical fairytale ending. Unfortunately, and it must be said this was the only dampener on the day, was attempting to get home after the Wedding and Parade. The station and buses were closed at one point for an extended period, with nobody present having any answers or seeming care as to the people missing booked trains, and couldn’t offer any suggestions as to alternative routes, but for such a minor detail, it was worth every minute! The happy couple are rumoured to be taking their honeymoon in the crisp air of the Rocky Mountains in Canada, at Outlook Cabin, which is part of the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge complex, located in the Unesco World Heritage Site of Jasper National Park. This is a message to Meghan, our new Duchess, keep on cooking the chicken for Harry and keep the ‘fire’ going!

ntering the Royal household, is is said that The Duchess of Sussex becomes the second Black woman in history to be part of the British monarchy, following in the footsteps of Queen Sophia Charlotte of MecklenburgStrelitz. The German princess arrived in London, from Germany, in 1761, where King George III had been impatiently awaiting her – he was 22 and she, 17. Historian Mario De Valdes y Cocom argues that Charlotte was directly descended from a Black branch of the Portuguese royal family: Alfonso III and his concubine, Ouruana, a Black Moor. She was the youngest daughter of Duke Carl Ludwig Friedrich of Mecklenburg-Strelitz and Princess Elisabeth Albertine of

Saxe-Hildburghausen. After George ascended the throne in 1760, according to Buckingham Palace, he set upon a search for a bride. In the following year, he announced to his council his intention to wed Charlotte. Following a difficult stormy journey Sophia arrived with crowds of commoners stretched to see this first encounter between the king and his princess. 257 years later, Prince Harry married American actress Meghan Markle, hailed as Britain’s first Black royal, but history proves that Duchess of Sussex, of African descent, is, thus, Britain’s second recorded Black royal on any high seat of power. And, with mother, Doria, so regal by her side, history has gone full circle…for ever.

U.S. Bishop, Curry, Wows Royal Wedding

e electrified millions – in Windsor Castle and around the world - with a barnstorming sermon on the power of love. Bishop Michael Curry, the first Black head of the Episcopal Church in the United States, started by quoting civil rights hero Dr Martin Luther King and powered on citing spirituals, medieval poetry and the experiences of slaves in the American south.

By the end, he was referring to Prince Harry and Meghan as “my brother, my sister,” telling them “God love you, God bless you” before the opening notes of the soul standard “Stand By Me” started. Barely glancing at the transcript of his speech in front of him, Curry talked directly to a congregation saying that love was not just for young couples but part of God’s plan with the power to change the world.

thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 26 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018

e wowed guests at the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex with his short set that took place at St George’s Chapel, another milestone in the short life of cellist Sheku Kanneh-Mason, after the Nottingham-born maestro being crowned BBC’s Young Musician of the Year in 2016. The newlyweds personally asked him to play after hearing him perform at an event for the Halo Foundation in London in June.

aren Gibson and the 20-strong Kingdom Choir’s stirring rendition of Ben E. King’s soulful classic ‘Stand by Me’ created a moving moment during the royal wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. Personally chosen by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, the British-based multi-denominational outfit, who has performed for other notables, including former President Bill Clinton, Bishop Desmond Tutu and the late Nelson Mandela, more than ‘wowed’ the 600plus special guests at Windsor

Beginning cello lessons at the age of six he enrolled in a junior program at the Royal Academy of Music in London, where he is currently studying full-time and will always remember May 19: “I was bowled over when Ms Markle called me to ask if I would play during the ceremony,” said the unassuming 19-year-old. “It was such an awesome moment and a day I will remember for the rest of my life.” A performance, too, that will be remembered…in more ways than one!

pecial thanks g o e s out to HRH Princess Moradeun Adedoyin-Solarin whose grandfather was the inspiration for a number of the costumes in Black Panther for the gift of the material for the dress. Thanks also to dress designer Reenie Boutique especially in this time of Ramadan for designing and making the dress for the occasion. We wanted to document this day for our devoted readers. The Phoenix newspaper is all about connecting

communities and is an ambassador in highlighting the benefits of the 53 countries of the commonwealth. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are to be heavily involed with the Commonwealth making it fitting for us to make that journey as part of the world press to make that connection. Thanks also to the BBC whom we shared one of the best locations with to capture that moment in time.

Castle, as they’ve also done alongside American Gospel artists such as Fred Hammond and Donnie McClurkin along with British acts, including The Spice Girls and Sir Elton John. The choir included The Voice UK Contestant Wayne Ellington, who was chosen by Tom Jones this year. It's not the first time The Kingdom Choir has performed for the royalty family, having perform at the Golden Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II, in 2002. The ceremony was recorded live by Decca Records is available on sale now.

@PhoenixNewsUK

The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018 - Page 27

www.streetcredmagazine.com

ENTERTAINMENT

House & Garage Duo makes Sunday’s Seksy

Shardfest 2018 is a very popular topic on the lips of ravers all over the country who are gagging to be apart of this monster line up in the Norman Chamberlain Fields park. ‘Many festivals do specific genres for specific people’Says Paul Smith founder of Shardfest ‘But we here are a peoples festival and want to cater for everybody and i genuinely want something Shard End can be proud of. To see the acts like we have usually you would pay a fortune but with us we want to be fair on peoples pockets’

celand’s Secret Solstice festival, set in 96 hours of continuous daylight June 21-24, is once again presenting the world’s most expensive festival ticket retailing at $1 million USD with all new uber luxurious perks. From private jet travel to extravagant Icelandic dinners and luxury sightseeing to private parties with headline artists, this is without a doubt the most exclusive festival pass ever offered on the planet.

With just one golden ticket up for grabs, the princely priced pass gets roundtrip pick up via private chartered business jet for six people, as well as luxury accommodation for the entire festival week including an exclusive private party with a Secret Solstice headline artist. Other standout benefits include daily pampering with luxury spa access and a personalized glam squad, private dining with prominent Icelandic chefs in unique Icelandic locations, chartered heli-

he Seksy Sunday Collective is comprised of DJ MJ and MC Delta. Combined, the pair have 29 years of experience in DJing and MCing and they are the Midlands popular Underground House and Garage Duo, and have performed alongside some of the biggest names in the industry across different events up and down the country and abroad. The pair are residents of Birmingham’s No1 Garage X-perience, the Midlands Platinum Garage and have strong involvement in the scene across London and Birmingham with regular bookings. MJ and MC Delta bring to you (exclusively) the sounds of the Underground with strong affiliation with some of the biggest

copter tour over the stunning landscape of southern Iceland across volcanoes and glaciers, horseback riding, catered World Cup viewing parties, 24/7 access to personal drivers, sledding across the world famous Langjökull glacier, complimentary gear from 66North, and all the usual VIP perks like priority festival and backstage access, an on-site fully-stocked private lounge, and plenty more.

names and brands in the industry. SEKSY SUNDAYS is all about the original old skool bumpy and nostalgic House and Garage as well as future Soulful Sounds. They currently hold a Sunday Show from 6pm LIVE from Jeremy Sylvesters Urban Dubz Studios and often invite guests from the scene on to their platform. Their style is Bumpy, Soulful, Old Skool, Nu Skool, Energetic

and Vibrant….but always Underground!

thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 28 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018

ENTERTAINMENT

Sean Paul Heading to Ricoh Chart-topping Jamaican superstar, Sean Paul, is heading to the Ricoh Arena and he will by playing in the Arena’s Ericsson Indoor Arena and will be supported by BBC Radio 1 DJ Charlie Sloth, Fat Man Scoop and one more special guest to be announced. Sean shot to fame in the UK in 2003 with a flurry of Top 40 hits such as ‘Gimme The Light’ and ‘Get Busy,’ before hitting the No.1 spot with ‘Breathe’. Since then his presence within the music industry has grown – amassing 25 Top 40 hits in the UK Official Charts - thanks to his ability to work with international stars such Beyoncé, Rihanna and Nicki Minaj. More recent hits include ‘No Lie’ with Dua Lipa and ‘Mad Love’ with David Guetta and Becky G. See him at the Ricoh Arena, in Coventry, on Sunday, August 19 - Age restriction : Over 14’s only, under 18’s to be accompanied by an adult.

www.streetcredmagazine.com

RETURN TO YOUR ROOTS 2018

By Joan ‘LJ’ Hunter

n week ending the 5th & 6th of May 2018, six months of endless planning with a very focused and dedicated team was finally here. Organisers of any event will tell you, they can only hope their vision becomes a successful reality. In its FIFTH YEAR the 'Return To Your Roots Festival, did return to the H-SUITE and was 'resounding success'. With a host of experts in their fields, 65 stalls promoting and education, selling and sharing good news about 'Returning To Your Roots', which drew in a crowd of over 1,200 over both days, which included two well known celebrities. Rudolph Walker (from Eastenders) combined his visit to promote prostate cancer awareness with a show of support for RTYR, and the Vivacious Alison Hammond a local, star of one the most popular day time TV shows, This Morning, was also happy to be at the festival, It easy to see why Khembe Clarke the brain child behind this annual RTYR festival stated she was 'overjoyed with the turnout'. This celebration is about instilling' 'Pride and Acceptance'

l Alison Hammond with reveller Verona Green

l Khembe Clarke with Sharon Thompson, Rudolph Walker and Canon Reverend Eve Pitts of our natural beauty, health and event. International Marketing witnessing fantastic performers wellness. educate celebrate and Manager Sharon Thompson, for and great Fashion shows. empower youngest to oldest in their research arm, McBride The workshops addressed the community to their African Research Inc was proud to share our hair matters, as well as our Caribbean heritage. that this African American owned wellness, from our diet, to health The workshop on how to care company of 28 years, McBride issues, some that are prominent Natural Hair, had the place Research Inc, hails from in the African Caribbean buzzing. Special guest from the Atlanta Georgia, it is the second Community. USA, My Lady Lox was a sure hit, generation family of the history Tony Kelly gave vital her knowledge and her vibrance in makers who gave the community information from Diabetes her delivery as she willing share Sta-sof-fro and Soft & Free hair UK, and there was a powerful her passion, and showcased her products. presentation on Prostate Cancer skills, was something special to The weekend was a great mix of by Vasco Stevenson and a behold. workshops that allowed revellers personal from Denton Wilson with Design Essentials, were the to participate practically, and join his book 'How I Cured My Cancer main sponsors for this year's in panel discussions, as well as Naturally.

0121 643 2047 www.thehatman.com

info@thehatman.net

outletstore@thehatman.com

54 Stephenson Street, Birmingham City Centre, B2 4HD

The H-Suite was a buzz with music, and positive energy, that saw a finale of the traditional 'two step formation dance ' to seal a truly wonderful event. The festival achieved it's aims, which was to give the attendees a well organised fun and factfilled experience, whilst opening up opportunities to be educated and to provide upliftment and empowerment. The organiser sees this annual festival as a this positive platform for entrepreneurs to launch promote their products. The feedback on the day and across social media was one of people feeling very uplifted, and humbled to be apart of the weekend, and that this is something they want more of. The word is watch this space for next year's event. 'Congratulations RTYR'

@PhoenixNewsUK

The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018 - Page 29

www.streetcredmagazine.com

Ford SYNC: That’s the Waze to do it Waze users around the world can now project the app’s realtime traffic and navigation service onto the touch screen in Ford vehicles via SYNC AppLink and control it through voice command. For owners of Ford SYNC 3-equipped vehicles, this allows easier access to features including finding efficient traffic routes, locating cheaper fuel prices and reporting traffic accidents. To use, customers simply connect their Waze-equipped iPhone to the USB port of their Ford vehicle and view the service as it is projected onto the vehicle touch screen. With Ford SYNC AppLink, users can now conveniently access the app’s features on a larger display and have voice guidance through their own vehicle speakers and microphone system. “Our goal is to make it as easy as possible for people to access the smartphone features, apps and services they care about most in the car, without having to pick up their device,” said Don Butler, executive director, connected vehicle platform and product, Ford Motor Company. “With Waze, our customers get the benefits they’re accustomed to with the added luxury of experiencing them on a bigger screen.” In addition to the ability to report on heavy traffic, accidents and fuel prices, Ford’s integration of Waze includes recent app updates such as talk to Waze, which lets you control the app via voice command.

City Set For Super Prix Revival

Young Talent Recognised At Apprentice Of The Year Awards

elebrating the top apprentices from across the retail network, the Mercedes-Benz Apprentice of the Year Awards took place in Weybridge earlier this month. Recognising young people who go above and beyond in the workplace, at the academy and for their customers, the apprentices have truly shown their worth. Georgia Parslow, from Mercedes-Benz of Epsom, was awarded ‘Passenger Car Parts Specialist Apprentice of the Year’, while Charlie Mason was chosen as ‘Passenger Car Technician Apprentice of the Year’ thanks to his hard work at Mercedes-Benz of

North Wales. Kane Hindmarsh, from Northside Truck and Van Sheffield, was awarded ‘Commercial Vehicle Parts Specialist Apprentice of the Year’ and William Stewart from City West Avonmouth was chosen as ‘Commercial Vehicle Technician Apprentice of the Year’. Andrew Mallery, Training Operations Director, Mercedes-Benz Cars UK, said: “All four winners have gone the extra mile in their work by displaying dedication, positivity and extremely high standards in all areas.” “We’re committed to recognising and nurturing young talent, and preparing them for life in our retail network. Our aim is

ROLLS-ROYCE DAWN ‘INSPIRED BY MUSIC’ TAKES TO THE STAGE

he social, convivial atmosphere of Dawn has been encapsulated in a light-hearted music video introducing Dawn ‘Inspired by Music’. In a playful twist, Dawn ‘Inspired by Music’ was taken for a spin in Rolls-Royce’s anechoic chamber, at the Home of RollsRoyce in Goodwood, West Sussex. The special sound-deadening

MOTORS

room is most commonly used during the build process of all Rolls-Royce motor cars to detect any unwanted extraneous sounds, resulting in models such as the world’s most silent car, a RollsRoyce Phantom. A hyper-sensitive microphone was used to capture the mechanical and electrical tones of Dawn, including the soft closing doors, the umbrella exciting from its home in the door, the windscreen

wipers, indicators and the Spirit of Ecstasy proudly taking her place on the prow of the motor car. These sounds were then mixed together with deconstructed music stems to create a wholly new track. Dawn ‘Inspired by Music’ follows in the footsteps of its hugely successful stablemate, Wraith ‘Inspired by Music’.

to ensure every apprentice has the ability to deliver quality technical expertise, in-depth product knowledge and outstanding service to our customers.” The winners were nominated by managers, mentors, assessors and

trainers. Candidates were judged according to four different categories including initiative and flexibility; cooperation and teamwork; accomplishments/contributions and quality of work.

After 30-years a Grand Prix-style race is set to return to the streets of Birmingham with the 2019 leg of the all-electric Formula E series navigating a course along closed city roads at up to 200mph. The Formula 3000 Super Prix attracted crowds of thousands when it was staged in Birmingham between 1986 and 1990. West Midlands Mayor Andy Street said: "I remember the original Super Prix fondly. It’s part of the city folklore and remind us of how those events thrust Birmingham firmly into the spotlight.” Though no deal had yet been finalised, he said: “This will be the UK's race and it's brilliant that it's here rather than in any other UK city.” A Formula E spokesperson said: “It’s imperative that a race is back on British soil. We want to find the right venue for the long-term. A number of options are being looked at and Birmingham is one of them."

thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 30 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018

ENTERTAINMENT BIRMINGHAM PRIDE 2018

www.streetcredmagazine.com www.streetcredmagazine.com

he two-day festival that brought out an incredible kaleidoscope of glitz, glamour and colour to the streets of Birmingham saw Pride 2018, once again, being bigger and better than ever before. In its 21st year, it remains the UK’s biggest LGBT event ever, as tens of thousands of people packed in the city streets to take part in a colourful festival, supported by HSBC UK. Kicking off with a parade of floats including the West Midlands Police, West Midlands Ambulance Service, West Midlands Fire Service,

Birmingham City University, University of Birmingham and a further large list of prominent, ever-supporting businesses and organizations, from Victoria Square, as it meandered through to the main festival area in and around Hurst Street. Under the theme of ‘Be You,’ headline acts including; Beth Ditto, Rudimental, Kym Mazelle, Courtney Act, Tight Fit and many, many more, there was never any shortage of people to see, or things to do – from minute 1 of day 1, through to the bitter end. “This is a fantastic celebration of people being who they want to be,”

@PhoenixNewsUK

The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018 - Page 31

www.streetcredmagazine.com

said West Midlands Metropolitan Mayor Andy Street. “The parade and festival shows just how proud we are in being such a diverse and inclusive city - in ways no other place in this country can match.” Birmingham Pride Festival Director, Lawrence Baton, said; “This year’s theme of 'Be You' was particularly significant in its timing, its unashamed celebration of people’s uniqueness, and the right for people to be who they are without fear of prejudice or hate regardless of their gender, sexuality, colour, religion or sexual identity.” Of note was the incredible line up of

Drag acts in the Manchester Airport Cabaret Marquee, with the likes of the DE Experience, Miss Thunderpussy, and local talent Sum Ting Wong, who blew the crowd away with her rendition of “This Is Me” from the Greatest Showman to end her set. Other celebraties taking part included; Mr Birmingham Michael Andrew, former Birmingham City and WBA striker Geoff-Horsfield, Jax Jones, Howard Jones, Livin’ Joy, Jamaal Monarch and others.

BIRMINGHAM PRIDE 2018

thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 32 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018

TEEN FLAIR WITH RHEA DEHANEY

www.streetcredmagazine.com

W WITH RHEA DEHANEY

Your Questions

I have 4 months before I head off to university and I have no idea what to do during it! All my friends have plans, and I really don’t want to be the person who is sleeping in all summer (even though I deserve it!). I guess I want this summer to make a real impact on people’s lives not just my own, I’m just not sure what to do. Anonymous, 18 Dear Anonymous, Summer is the best time to make an impact as you’ll have

all that free time. Now the first thing I would advise you to do is volunteering!! Of course you don’t have to spend all your summer doing this, but there are so many places you can volunteer (concerts, hospitals, care homes). I also would advise you to begin looking for either a part - time job or someway to earn income. If you do want to help someone, babysitting might be a job that a lot of adults may look for, as many people

continue working during the summer. Also, if you do not want to sleep in and to be able to travel a lot then you will need money. Start a blog, or a youtube channel? Are you creative, is there something important to you that you want people to hear? Use social media platforms! There’s many ways you can communicate in the comfort of your own home, and you may even be able to earn some income! - R.Dehaney

elcome to another edition of Teen flair where I give you advice highlight real people and much more! This month I want to introduce you to a young man named Christian Owens who at just the age of 16 made his first million! This was by teaching himself

web - design in middle school and by the age of 14 he started his own design company. Amazing right? In this month’s edition I will be sharing my tips and various ways you can get creative this summer. Summer is around the corner! How will you spend yours?

Philippians 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.

Mom, I’m bored! START YOUR OWN BUSINESS

There are many ways to enhance your creativity. So if you’re a person who loves to interact with people, has ideas you want to share with friends/ family then this one is great for you! At just age 16, I started my leaflet design business, I’m selftaught and I would watch videos on YouTube to help me. I realized how easy is if you just have the right tools and people around you. What are you good at? Or maybe you’d like to learn. Try and see what gap there is in the market for you to fill. You can gain income from dog walking, babysitting, cleaning (even with your own kitchen tools!). Ask a friend, a parent, an aunt or uncle and see what they need help with. Set yourself longterm goals and see where it takes you!

VOLUNTEER!

There are so places looking Here’s some you should JennyBlogger volunteered in places.

many different for volunteers! reasons why volunteer by who has many different

volunteering is meeting the other volunteers! They are likely to be very interesting and inspiring people and might just turn out to be great friends too.

3. It’s a way to gain confidence.

Many people who do voluntary work say that it has helped them to feel more confident in all sorts of ways. For example, I have always been quite a shy person, but my volunteering experience has helped me to gain confidence in talking to strangers and even in front of a crowd!

4. You can have lots of fun!

Doing an activity that you wouldn’t normally do, with likeminded people, should mean that you have a really fun time. You will also feel good knowing that you are doing something for a good cause. These are just a few of the many reasons why I suggest that you look for volunteering opportunities in your local town or city. There are many different

things that you can get involved with, and remember that any type of volunteering is good volunteering. If you like, you can start with something small and who knows what it will lead to! The most important thing to remember is that as well as helping others, you can get a great deal out of it too!

SPONTANEOUS TRIPS

I love to explore, if you’re tired of being in the same place, there are many ways you can enjoy your summer. Ever been on a hike? Camping? Or a road trip. I urge you to travel this year whether it’s with friends or family. You can document your time, and make loads of memories. Sometimes, staying in your local area can get boring, don’t be afraid to try new things! You can save up for, many activities, horse riding, diving! Explore and even set yourself different goals you would like to meet throughout the summer! You only live once!

1. It’s an opportunity to gain experience and skills.

By volunteering, you are carrying out a job – even though you’re not being paid – so you can gain valuable experience and skills which are likely to be useful in the future. For example, many volunteering roles will help you to gain experience in working as a team.

KEEP IN TOUCH

2. You can meet new people.

One of the best things about

Check out my first Youtube video ‘Rhea Dehaney’ I hope you are blessed :)

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

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

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

@PhoenixNewsUK

The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018 - Page 33

The Sky’s The Limit For The City of Birmingham Rockets

l Most Valuable Player MVP - Tyrese Lacey

M l Most Improved Player MIP - Alasan Njie-Morgan

l Coach’s Player CP - Shakeem Dunkely

Series of free events as City marks Carers Week

ore details have been revealed about the events taking place in Wolverhampton as the City marks Carers Week next month. Members of the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Carer Support Team will be out and about from 11-15 June, 2018, offering help and advice to people who care for a loved one. The extensive programme of activities begins on Monday 11 June with a special poetry session for people living with dementia and their carers courtesy of Poetry on Loan.

Popular poet Mandy Ross will lead a morning of poetry and song, engaging and entertaining with gentle humour and activities at East Park Library from 10am-noon. ACCI – the African Caribbean Community Initiative – will be holding its annual Carer’s Day of Celebration at the Heritage Centre, Clifford Street, on Tuesday 12 June from 10.30am-3pm, featuring guest speaker Dr Malcolm Philips from Hestia Housing and Support. For full details check out the Wolverhampton Council website - search ‘Carers Week’.

onday 14th May saw the stars of the City of Birmingham Basketball Club U14 team, based at Nechells Wellbeing Centre honoured for their achievements this season. On Saturday 24th March, the Under 14s took the win against Manchester Giants which secured their place in the play offs, and they now hold the Premier North Title. The season didn’t end there, with the team making their way all the way to the Final 4’s in May, where they ultimately finished 3rd in the competition, a massive achievement for the boys. Coach Mathew Catlow spoke enthusiastically of the passion of

the team, praising them for their performances which saw the team take the Premier North title. “The hard work and effort that we’ve put in has been great, and the boys have listened to everything I’ve said. We’ve had low rocky patches and massive highs, and it’s been a fantastic season to take these boys to Final 4s.” The whole squad received trophies, and a certificate, while “Even though we lost the Final 4’s, we did really well this season,” one of the U14 Squad Tyrese Lacey, reflected. “The team is like a big family, we always have each others backs and support each other. Hopefully we can continue this form into next season.” “The fight and commitment in every game is what I like about this team,” said Assistant Coach Beva, “I also like CoB and what they’re doing for Basketball, trying to get it back on the map in Birmingham.” One of the mothers, Caroline Tuddenham, couldn’t praise the club enough. “My son has grown in confidence since playing with CoB, has really come out of himself. The physical and more importantly mental coaching that these children get is phenomenal, the staff really care.” Robert Palmer, Director of Basketball, City of Birmingham Basketball Club said “This group are the flagship of the club this season. Many of the kids have been with us since they were 9 or 10 years old so it’s not an overnight thing. They’ve had an unbelievable season, and to come as close as they did to winning the national competition we’re just so immensely proud of them.” Trials for next season are on Saturday 9th June at Nechells Wellbeing Centre. Whether you’re a beginner or an elite level player aged from 11 to 18 years old there are pathways in the club available. “We’re about 300 playing members across the club, but there is always room to grow the club,” added Robert.

thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 34 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018

Promoting Excellence In Education With A Wiggle And A Giggle

by Daniel Riley

entrally located on Birmingham Business Park near the NEC, Wiggles and Giggles Day Nursery has gone from strength to strength since it opened its doors for the first time just under 12 months ago.

Janna Geiregger, Director and Manager at Wiggles and Giggles Day Nursery, took the time out to talk to The Phoenix Newspaper to tell our readers a bit more about how the nursery came around. Janna used to be a primary school teacher after completing her Primary Education degree at the University of Derby. After 4 years in the position, she left and went back into Early Years, where she had lots of experience from her degree and also from summer temp work. “I ran the 2+3 year old division at the school I worked at at the timne,” explained Janna, “and as an idea, the nursery came about following discussions with my sister-inlaw, Samantha Rutter.” Samantha was awarded Outstanding Business Person of the Year at Solihull Chamber

Awards 2017, for her work running a successful, award winning education-based business, and along with co-owners Shawna Baker and Mark Rutter, the dream of setting up the Nursery became a reality. Back in August 2016, the draft business plan was drawn up and things stormed through since then, taking up their current venue on the business park in January 2017, and following OFSTED approval, had their first child start in July 2017. “Wiggles and Giggles Day Nursery offers an Early Years curriculum,” Janna continued, “and we pride ourselves on having individual personalised service for each child, both in terms of their daily routines and their approach to learning. “It’s really important that the child is always at the centre of everything we do, making it about what is best for them, rather than hitting number targets. We want to create a genuine love for learning, and this initial exposure is critical.” Janna’s next milestone aim is to be rated Good or Outstanding by OFSTED in their first inspection, and of course grow the number of children at the nursery. Wiggles and Giggles can take up to 80 children, with 20 in the

baby room, 28 in toddlers and 32 in preschool and children range from 6 weeks, to 5 years old. “Our biggest day at the moment is 40, so there is still room to grow our extended family, but on certain days our Baby Room is almost full to capacity on certain days, al-

though there are limited spaces available.” There are also government funded places available, and places for local families as the nursery is close to Chelmsley Wood. “Most of our children come from parents who work on the business park. When we set up the structure it was designed around the working parent, with flexible start times and 50% off for 4 weeks a year – the national average holiday for a working parent.” The location cannot be overstated, as it allows parents the flexibility to come and check on their children if there is a problem during a break without causing issues. “It has been a godsend for some parents,” mused Janna, “because we’re not allowed to give non-prescribed medication to the children, but there is nothing stopping that parent popping in to give their child some calpol.” Wiggles and Giggles has already grown to 15 staff members, in line with the number of children they have and the nursery is still recruiting – “We are looking for Qualified Nursery Nurses from Level 2 upwards, and there are a few playworker roles as well. We’re also more than happy to take on freshly qualified graduates, and will bring them up to the Wiggles and Giggles standard.” Wiggles and Giggles is certainly

a labour of love for Janna, who hand painted the wonderful images and murals on the walls, following the complete refurbishment of the building they had acquired. “It used to be a wine bar, which we had to tear everything out of and start over. We purpose built the Office and Reception area to be able to monitor and control access of people coming in and out, and the murals came about because we wanted children to see something familiar and recognisable when they started with us so coming to nursery wasn’t such a daunting experience for them.” Down the line, Janna would like to open other Wiggles and Giggles nurseries, but only if they can ensure that they would not lose the personalised aspect that the parents have come to love. “We still want that close relationship with our families,” she beamed, “we actually use an app called Tapestry

@PhoenixNewsUK

which allows parents to log in and see their childs personalised learning journal, keeping them fully involved.” “It also allows them to add things that happened at home, such as a weekend trip to the zoo, to enable staff to keep up the conversation as they start the week.” This, alongside the first class service that Wiggles and Giggles provides, has really hit home with their parents, netting them an award within their first year of business. “We were rated in the top 20 nurseries in the West Midlands out of 592 in the region, as voted for by parents themselves.” “We are over the moon with the awards, as it is a reflection of what our parents truly think of the nursery and staff and not just an OFSTED score.” Their location on the Business

The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018 - Page 35

Park is great not only for the nursery itself, but for the children as well. “We’re very lucky, we have a secure fenced off area as an outdoor learning space. We have more physical toys out there that they can climb on, but we can take anything that happens inside into that space as well. “We are also surrounded by ponds and lakes and beautiful woodland walks. OFSTED have agreed with our risk assessments and decided that we can keep the children safe in those areas so it really expands the experiences that we can offer to the children. “During nature week, we got to meet the Business Park Beekeeper, and they also removed a fish from the pond so that the children were able to see and interact with it.” Running a business, and especially working in education, is never an easy task, but for Janna and the team at Wiggles and Giggles it is one of the most rewarding things you can do. “It isn’t a job, it’s a lifestyle that you can’t help but fully invest everything you’ve got into, but what you get back is amazing.” Encouraging others to follow their dreams Janna had a few words of encouragement for those difficult first steps. “It’s not easy to start up your own business but it is worth it. Be prepared for it to become your life, not just a job, and read all the policies and documents and make sure you do it properly. Always do the best you can.”

y t i l a u High q e from r d a l c o d s l i r a ch e y e iv f o t birth

Day Nursery

Open CominNow a Birm BirmiinnghamgBsootn to gham uB sines usinses Park s ! Par

g n i k a T s n o i s s admi now For more information or to enquire about admissions visit:

www.wigglesandgigglesdaynursery.co.uk Contact us: 4360 Waterside Centre, Birmingham Business Park, Solihull Parkway, B37 7YN 07825082937 contact@wigglesandgigglesdaynursery.co.uk

thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 36 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018

You Have Outdone

l AB Cakes’ Paz Heer and the Predator Cake

hen you think of world class cakes, your mind immediately jumps to American TV shows like Cake Boss or Ace of Cakes, not necessarily to Wolverhampton. But out of the West Midlands has emerged a new contender for the top tier of cake creation, AB Cakes. Paz Heer never wanted to be a baker, his passions lay elsewhere as he explained to The Phoenix Newspaper, “I was a normal kid, out playing all the time, but never really got

involved with cooking at home. “I went through school, and college and really wanted to do something around business, so I went into Business and Marketing and I got my Marketing and Retail Management Degree at Uni.” It was only a chance opportunity that turned his life from one of marketing to one of baking. “I was in a job that I got straight out of Uni, nothing to do with marketing but it was a job, that I progressed through until I became a Team Leader and even a covering

Manager,” Paz reminisced, “when my mum was given the opportunity to buy a business, namely AB Cakes.” The previous owners had in fact approached Paz’s mother previously to take over the business, but as it would be a labour intensive job, and all her children were at University, she turned it down. “This time though, she spoke to us all and said ‘Let’s go for it, what have we got to lose?’ My mum was the first Female Asian Driving Instructor of her era, breaking down

l Arnold Schwarzenegger cutting into the Predator cake

l Paz with Ginuwine

barriers and said ‘If I’ve done these things, why can’t you guys do it? A male making cakes is no big deal!’ “ So off Paz went, back to college to learn and get the certification needed before shadowing the previous owner to see their methods. “I believed that there were new and better ways to do things, so I started experimenting with things like wiring lights through the cake, making them more into showpieces/ art pieces.” So in 2008 Paz took over the running of the business, and continued from where the previous owner left off, putting in the hours to make the business work. “I’ve been there til midnight, only to get up at 4am to continue baking and decorating. I’ve been in tears doing this job due to sheer physical exhaustion.

“I always remembered what my mum used to say – ‘Keep at it and it will pay off!’” Sadly Paz’s mother passed away, and as she was the one who pushed him to do it, and also helped out in the business as well, this loss hit him hard. “I was ready to give up, I told my wife I couldn’t do it anymore. I really hit rock bottom, but I had so much support and love from my community when I was that low, so I carried on. It’s hard, but I do it.” And without that support, AB Cakes wouldn’t be in the position it found itself in just last year. Having done an Asian celebrity, Jassi Sidhu’s Wedding Cake, Paz was approached to create a cake for Floyd Mayweather for his 40th Birthday celebrations.

“When we rolled up with the Mayweather cake the people at the venue crowded us as the paparazzi started clicking away! For that small moment I felt like a celebrity!” laughed Paz. “Floyd shook my hand and said thankyou for the cake, I just couldn’t believe I was standing there next to him!” That was the turning point for AB Cakes. While by day Paz continued make the usual birthday, wedding and cupcakes that AB Cakes were known for, by night he was coming up with amazing designs for all manner of celebrities. From Jazzy B, Migos, Cardi B and the Warris Brothers to Bugzy Malone, Anthony Joshua, Ginuwine and the terminator himself, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Paz has been

@PhoenixNewsUK

The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018 - Page 37

l Bugzy Malone with Paz

l Paz with Cardi B

inundated with these celebrity cakes ever since. “Anthony Joshua was the unified champ, so there was a theme for his cake. I put a boxing ring on there, the belts he had won, lots of tiers and flashing lights. “Each project is different and difficult in its own way. Regular Birthday and wedding cakes, most people know what they want so I don’t get to go creative on those, so this is a nice outlet. And the celebrity ones just leave me to make it and it has really helped me to get my creative mojo back.” Out of all the cakes he has made, the cake he made for Predator star Arnold Schwarzenegger on the 30th anniversary of the release of the movie really stands

out as his favourite. “His reaction was amazing – ‘I’ve never seen anything like it’ he said, ‘You’ve outdone Hollywood!’” “I know how much work went

into that cake, from the masks, creating UV Predator Blood, LED’s, a Cinema Screen and clapper board, and even a mister to create a mist around the cake for the lasers to show up!” AB Cakes is in the process of moving into new premises, expanding its show room and con-

sultation space as well as giving Paz a dedicated and expansive area for his experimentation. “My inspiration now is my 1 year old son. Every time I feel tired, I look at him and think I’m building something to make him proud of me.” After 10 years of running AB Cakes, Paz has really discovered a niche for himself that will only increase his notoriety and popularity as his creations get more extravagant and exciting. You can find out more about AB Cakes on their website at www. ab-cakes.co.uk. We’re looking forward to a Phoenix cake in the future!

thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 38 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018

Chelsea’s Abramovich Granted Israeli Citizenship Following the unusually long delays in renewing his UK visa, billionaire owner of Chelsea football club, Roman Abramovich, was granted Israeli citizenship and has decided to move to Tel Aviv, an Israeli government spokesperson has said. Israel’s interior ministry confirmed the offer of citizenship on a local television station saying: “Roman Abramovich arrived at the Israeli embassy in Moscow like any other person. He filed a request to receive an immigration permit, his documents were checked according to the law of return, and he was indeed found eligible.” According to the Ynet website, which belongs to Israel’s biggest selling daily newspaper, Yedioth Aharonoth, Abramovich flew to city in the Jewish state and received documents confirming his status as an Israeli citizen. He has reportedly bought a property in the city.

Celebrating at Europe’s largest Eid ul Fitr

urope’s largest Eid celebration returns to Birmingham as the city’s Green Lane Masjid & Community Centre estimates some 150,000 people expected to take part in the day’s festivities.

Now in its seventh year, the festival has grown rapidly since its first celebrations, in Small Heath, in 2011. Following the month of Ramadan Eid ul Fitr is celebrated on the 1st of Shawwal as Muslims thank Allah (SWT), celebrating

the festival with religious fervour. Each country’s celebrations vary as there is an influence of thei to their traditions. Muslims all over the world celebrate the festival of Eid al Fitr by starting the day with the Eid prayer. After the Eid prayers, people greet each other with the customary Eid greeting, Eid Mubarak with a formal embrace, three times. Festival-goers in Small Heath Park will be able to take part in family activities including laser clay pigeon shooting, miniature golf, rodeo bull riding, fairground rides, food stalls and much more.

"Celebrate Eid is open to the entire community,” said a Celebrate Eid organiser. "Eid is one of the most important holidays in the Islamic calendar, and this year we aim to bring together our largest ever congregation - to once again be Europe’s largest celebration of Eid. We welcome people of all faiths to join. As our numbers grow, so does our commitment to our community and our passion for peace and inclusion. Eid is one of the most important holidays in the Islamic calendar, and this year we aim to bring together our largest ever congregation - to once again be Europe’s largest celebration of Eid.”

All Change to Irish Abortion Law

he people in the Republic of Ireland have voted on replacing or amending the part of Ireland's Constitution which strictly limits the availability of abortion in the country – which is upheld in the Eighth Amendment of the Irish constitution. Since 2013, terminations have been allowed in Ireland but only

when the life of the mother is at risk, including from suicide. The maximum penalty for accessing an illegal abortion would be 14 years in prison. Following a referendum the Catholic country voted overwhelmingly to overturn the abortion ban by 66.4% to 33.6%. Prime Minister Leo Varadkar, who campaigned in favour of

‘Untouchable’ Groom Is Challenging Caste Prejudice in India When Sanjay Kumar Jadav, from India’s lowest caste, proposed to take his marriage procession past the homes of wellto-do Hindus, uproar ensued. The dusty road has long been a no-go area, on pain of death, for bridegrooms from the Dalit caste and their wedding processions. The 27-year-old is a new kind of Dalit, the lowest caste in Hinduism. The formerly known ‘untouchables,’ are fed up with the humiliating customs and class prejudices and are mobilising against a system that refuses to sit back. Slightly greater prosperity and higher levels of education have made the younger generation aspirational. There is a new assertiveness. Next month, he will lead his parade of male relatives – called the “baraat” – down the road in Nizampur village, past the houses of upper caste Hindus who fear they will be “tainted” by his passing, to where his fiancée Sheetal lives. There, the couple will be married. “I refuse to be defined by my caste,” he says. “I am much more than that.” After months of wrangling in Nizampur, a truce was finally reached. Prodded by the police and a media storm, the Thakurs agreed to let his wedding procession travel along the main road.

liberalisation, said: “This was an historic day for Ireland," and that a "quiet revolution" had taken place. Addressing a packed crowd at Dublin Castle, he said: “The result showed the Irish public trust and respect women to make their own decision and choices." It's also a day when we say no more. No more to doctors telling their patients there's nothing can be done for them in their own country, no more lonely journeys across the Irish Sea, no more stigma as the veil of secrecy is lifted and no more isolation as the burden of shame is gone."

@PhoenixNewsUK

The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018 - Page 39

Dame Tessa Jowell

Former Aston Villa and Bolton defender Jlloyd Samuel

he former Trinidad and Tobago international made 199 appearances for Villa after signing with the club in 1998, and played 83 times for Bolton between 2007 and 2011 – representing England at Under18-Under21 levels and retired after a period playing professionally in the Iranian Pro League.

Most recently he was player-manager at non-league side Egerton, in Cheshire. A winner of two international caps for Trinidad and Tobago, his vehicle was in a collision with a van and was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics, leaving a wife, Emma, and three children. He was 37.

Neale T Cooper

he former Ross County, Peterhead, Hartlepool United and Gillingham manager was part of the Aberdeen team that won the European Cup Winners' Cup in 1983 before overcoming Hamburg later that year to clinch the European Super Cup. He also played with Aston Villa, Rangers, Reading, Dunfermline Athletic as well as the afore mentioned Ross County. He also won two league winners’ medals following the Dons’ championship triumphs of 1984 and 1985, while he won the Scottish Cup four times and League Cup once. He died after being found injured outside his home – aged 54.

Notice Board

John Bain A.K.A. TotalBiscuit

he impact of the former Labour cabinet minister on politics was enormous, especially the major role she played in securing the 2012 Olympics for London when she served as Culture Secretary, as well as advancing equal pay for women and starting the Sure Start programme for children throughout the UK. She was diagnosed with brain

cancer in May, and in recent months she campaigned for more cancer treatments to be made available through the NHS. She earned a minute-long standing ovation in the House of Lords in January for speaking about the issue. Dame Tessa suffered a hemorrhage before falling into a coma until her death - age 70.

Margot Kidder B

est known for her role as Lois Lane, to the late Christopher Reeve’s Superman in the 19702 and 80s blockbusters, the Canadian-born actress, who acquired American citizenship in 2005, also starred in horror classics ‘Black Christmas’ and ‘The Amityville Horror.’ An outspoken critic of the Gulf War, of fracking by energy companies, she became a political and women's rights activist alongside her acting. As an act-

ivist, she was arrested in 2011 while taking part in a protest at the White House against the Keystone XL pipeline, which remains controversial today. She also suffered from mental health problems, which resulted in her high-profile disappearance for several days in 1996. She died at her home, aged 69.

urprise!

, Big S p o h S e l t t Li

If you’ve got an event, notice or information that you’d like to advertise on our community notice board, get in touch with us on:

0121 339 5885

ebrating the cultural This is an annual event cel The event will be heritage of the Filipinos. d and goods from the filled with live music, foo hlighted by a Special Philippines. It will be hig lippines. Guest Artist from the Phi 8th & July 7th try Park Woodgate Valley Coun Birmingham

The 2018 Intern at Urban Develop ional Conference on m researchers fro ent will bring together m sociology, polit urban studies, geography, ical science, ur ban planning, urban managem en as China studie t and public policy as well s, from all over share research findings on the the world, to process of urba n transformation.

University of Glasgow, G 9 to 12 July 20 lasgow, UK 18

aming guru and YouTuber with the online aliases ‘TotalBiscuit’ and “Cynical Brit,” studied law at De Montfort University and ran World of Warcraft Radio, a popular World of Warcraft fan radio station and Cynicalbrit.com, where he posted more generalized gaming content which received special acknowledgment and recognition. On YouTube, his TotalBiscuit channel had 2.2 million

subscribers. He reported that he had bowl cancer, in 2015, before going into remission, unfortunately it was later revealed that the cancer had spread to his liver. Knowing he did not have long left to live, he announced he was fully retiring from game criticism, believing he was no longer capable of performing his work that would satisfy himself and his fans. Widow Genna announced that he had passed away - aged 33.

Ray Wilkins

he former England player started his career for, and made his international debut whilst at, his boyhood club Chelsea – captaining them from the age of 18. After a successfully long period at Manchester United he had equally successful spells at AC Milan, Paris Saint-Germain and Glasgow Rangers before returning to England playing at QPR and Crystal Palace. As well as managing QPR he managed and coached at clubs, including; Fulham, Chelsea, Millwall and Aston Villa. He also coached the Jordanian national team and England U-21s. His media work included the Football Italia show on Channel 4, co-commentating on Sky Sports and talkSPORT Radio.

Capped 83 times for his country, he was 61.

Back To Basics

Page 40 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018

wenty-two years ago Josephine Williams-Brown founded the Jamaica Basic School Foundation (UK), to assist in the early development of early childhood education on the Caribbean island-state by improving the quality of pre-school education and learning environment. In continuing her relentless quest to give young children, there, the opportunity for the very basics – at least – of education, distinguished guests, and patrons; including former England and Liverpool football legend, John Barnes MBE, Jamaican High Commissioner to the UK His Excellency Seth George Ramocan and Communities Initiatives Consultant Delores Cooper OD were present, at the Pimlico Primary School, in south west London, for a fund-raising dinner and concert; to help building maintenances and utilities, aid school feeding programmes, for books, stationery and teaching equipment. That the JBSF (UK) & Grace Foods (UK) ‘Celebrities In Concert,’ in association with Victoria

Mutual Building Society, was set in a primary school – with basic education a ‘given’ for children in the UK – was apt, highlighting the great need for the support, to allow children there the very ‘basic’ opportunity for an equally brighter future. “We are pleased with, and honoured by, the ongoing work that the Jamaica Basic School Foundation is doing,” H.C. Ramocan said in his opening remarks, “especially in fulfilling the needs for repairs and maintenance of schools like, for instance, the Mount Salem Open Bible School, in St. James. “The Foundation has provided tangible support by way of millions of dollars for equipment, stationary and support – gestures of ‘goodwill that is fully appreciated.” With a blessing by Priest-inCharge of St Mary-at-Hill, City of London, the Reverend Prebendary Rose Hudson-Wilkin QHC, Chaplain to Her Royal Highness The Queen and also the Speaker of the House of Commons, the tone was set what proved to be a memorable night. For Josephine, the very special list of distinguished guests, and all who contributed, made sure it would be an unforgettable night.

l Chaplain to Her Royal Highness, Reverend Prebendary Rose Hudson-Wilkin QHC, Dame Karlene Davis DBE, Delores Cooper OD, John Barnes MBE, Organiser Josephine Williams-Brown from JBSFUK and High Commissioner Seth George Ramocan “You have to congratulate Josephine for thinking outside the box,” compere Delores said. “Doing something like this takes a lot of courage and determination.” It was a sentiment fully appreciated; as each man, woman and child present, at this highly classed benevolence bash, were all in the mood to party – and to give. “The Jamaica Basic School Foundation has achieved many

milestones,” Josephine said. “But, we will continue to fund more basic schools and basic school projects each year and shall endeavour to a get a wider spread of funding across the island. Jamaica is well aware of the Foundation and fully appreciative of what we are doing - Jamaican Diaspora support is always welcomed there.” The incomparable Delores would

get everyone present in a fine mood with jokes-a-plenty – one of which that, from the off-set, was ‘going down a raunchy road,’ before she so skilfully steered the right way. It had all in stitches as the night truly began. In line with the theme of the evening - celebrities and dignitaries doing things you wouldn’t normally associate with them, John Barnes took to the stage rapping along to Sugar Hill Gang, ex-Eastender Richard Blackwood had the crowd in fits of laughter doing stand-up comedy, and the High Commissioner of Jamaica Seth George Ramocan and his wife Lola performed an off the cuff skit of Rasta Man Vibration including iMan, iPad, iPhone and many more iTings. The Foundation, whose patrons also include; former trade union leader Lord Bill Morris of Handsworth and ex-West Indian cricketing legend Courtney Walsh OJ, was set-up to assist in the early development of early childhood education in Jamaica by improving the quality of pre-school education and learning environment. For Josephine Williams-Brown, Jamaica Basic School Foundation (UK) will not stop until every child has the rights to ‘Basic School Foundation’ for basic education. Photos by Tony @ Black Ink.

thephoenixnewspaper.com

@PhoenixNewsUK

a n I n o i t a r b i V n a M a t Ras ! n o i s s i m m o C h g i H e Th

The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018 - Page 41

thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 42 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018

Biggest Ever Transplant Games in Birmingham this Summer

ne of the largest annual multi-sports events in the United Kingdom will be taking place across Birmingham as the Westfield Health British Transplant Games, organised by the charity Transplant Sport, will see over 1,000 recipients of a life-saving organ transplant - together with 1,500 their supporters - arrive in the city to competing in over 25 sports over 4 days, and nights. Organised on behalf of the charity Transplant Sport, the Games, which has been held annually since 1978, has grown from an original 99 entrants (nicknamed the 99 blooming miracles) to 800 competitors today, with the aim of promoting the benefits of transplantation, the desperate need for organ donors and to celebrate the many incredible achievements of transplant athletes. It also embraces the Donor Family Network and Adult Live Donors, celebrating the many families who have enabled the ‘Gift of Life’ to be fulfilled. Using some of the city’s iconic venues, like; Alexander Stadium, Symphony Hall, the ICC and the new University of Birmingham Sport and Fitness Centre, the build up to the Games has begun, as it’s estimated to inject £2m into the local economy

ocus F on Social Care

and generate significant national media profile. It will also help increase numbers on the NHS Organ Donor Register. Professor James Neuberger, Chair of the Games Local Organising Committee, said: “We are delighted that the UK Transplant Games is coming to Birmingham. “The city, University of Birmingham and the NHS are committed to making it an overwhelming success - in not only showing how transplant recipients of all ages can lead a healthy, active and normal life but will also honour the donors without whom most of the athletes would not be alive today.” The Games will highlight the benefits of sport, celebrate the donor families and encourage organ donation from the BAME (Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic) communities have a greater need for organ transplant but often experience some of the lowest rates of consent for organ donation therefore many wait longer and have a higher risk of death awaiting a transplant. A sub group is currently being set up to target this issue and seek increased sign ups to the organ donor register amongst the BAME Community. The Westfield Health British Transplant Games takes place from August 2 to 5.

Personal health budgets

Diabetics denied FreeStyle Libre Thousands of diabetics in the UK are being denied access to technology which could help improve their blood sugar levels. According to leading charity, Diabetes UK, getting Flash Glucose Monitoring technology on prescription is a "postcode lottery" and only certain areas are benefitting. Currently the FreeStyle Libre, considered to be a ground-breaking device, made by Abbott Diabetes Care, is the only Flash Glucose Monitoring device on the market, which was made available on the NHS in November. It provides glucose readings and trends whilst omitting the traditional finger pricking method, and has shown to reduce hypoglycaemia and improve blood sugar control. Diabetes UK says 52 areas in England have decided not to allow the Libre to be made available - 38 clinical commissioning groups across England and nine health boards in Scotland which are reviewing their policies. Helen Dickens, assistant director of campaigns and mobilisation at Diabetes UK, said: "Everyone should be able to access the care and treatments necessary to safely manage their condition.

n Thursday 3rd May 2018, I was elected to the new seat of Holyhead ward, which crosses the boundary of Perry Barr and Ladywood constituency. I am also delighted that I was appointed by the Leader to continue as the Cabinet Member for the adult health and social care portfolio for a fourth year. I feel it is important to reference the forthcoming green paper that is expected in the summer of 2018, and setting out the importance of understanding personal budgets and what is meant by integration. On the 20th March 2018 Jeremy Hunt MP the Secretary of State for health and adult social care outlined some key principles that will guide the government’s thinking around the area of personalisation. Personalisation is not new, but the government have made it clear that they want to “turbo charge” this area of work. Many service users have been sceptical about the reasons behind this, and feel it is a way of saving money. Hence, this has led to it being difficult over many years to encourage personalisation and direct budgets to older people. I believe if we communicate better we can bring people along with us, it is an excellent way to introduce independence to service users. I am also of the belief that it can build local communities, if done well. Personalisation has always been easier to introduce to younger adults with disabilities, but continues to be a challenge with older adults. A personal budget allows people to have greater control and choice over the health and social care services they receive. The personal health budget or an integrated budget that can be managed in three ways: 1. Through a notional budget-the council or NHS manages the budget and arranges the care and support. 2. Third party budget- an independent organisation manages the budget and works with the individual/ family to ensure the right care is put in place to meet the service users outcomes. 3. Direct payment in social services is an amount of

l Cllr Paulette Hamilton money given to the individual to support care needs. The care or support needed is planned and agreed between the individual and their representative through a social worker’s assessment. The money is then paid into a bank account. The service user is then able to decide from whom and where to access the support they need to meet their assessed needs. In Birmingham we have been working hard to ensure we capture all the services available in the private sector, voluntary sector and organisations run by churches, gurdwaras, mosques and other places of worship. A person with an integrated health budget will have all their health and social care needs considered during one, single assessment. This is still at an early stage, but this is the link to the current web site birmingham.connecttosupport.org This means the service user will have one single assessment, and the package will be designed with the user to meet their needs. This month I am asking readers to be aware of what is being proposed in the Health and Social Care sector relating to Personalisation. I will keep readers updated over the next few months on key issues and changes being brought forward by government in relation to Health and Social Care. Birmingham is a City that wants to promote independence and wellbeing, and is working with the health sector, the citizens panel, Health Watch, BVSC and the voluntary, community and faith groups to achieve the goal of putting the service user first, and building services around the needs of citizens with their communities.

@PhoenixNewsUK

The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018 - Page 43

Air India Increase Flights to Amritsar from Birmingham

ir India has increased the frequency of its nonstop service to Amritsar from twice weekly to three times a week, just a few months after starting the route. The additional service is scheduled for Saturday evenings, arriving into Birmingham at 18:15 and departing for Amritsar at 19:45. This means the service now operates every Tuesday, Thursday and Sat-

Improvements for Grenada to increase Visitors The Grenada Tourism Authority has announced a number of new initiatives and programmes aimed at improving the product offerings as well as increasing visitors to the tri-island destination. Following the 2017 visit to Grenada of a high level delegation of the Florida Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA), Grenada’s Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation Hon. Clarice Modeste Curwen spearheaded a policy initiative to engage a cruise consultancy to improve the Pure Grenada Cruise Guest Experience. Since then, Mico Cascais with 30-plus years’ experience in the global cruise industry has been engaged to fill this role. A six-month consultancy was approved by Minister Modeste-Curwen with the aim of developing a Grenada Cruise Guest Experience project proposal and road map. The project is a 50/50 public private partnership between the Ministry of Tourism/Grenada Tourism Authority and private tourism stakeholders to be funded by both parties.

urday. Amritsar allows direct access to the major commercial and cultural centre in the heart of the Punjab and it is home to the Golden Temple. Air India has been a successful partner at Birmingham Airport for over four years after launching a Delhi flight in August 2013. This service alone has already carried over 600,000 passengers since its launch. Tom Screen, Acting Aviation Director at Birmingham Airport,

said: “Amritsar was a new route which Air India launched from Birmingham in February this year. It’s great to see the airline increase the frequency of flights within only the first few months of this route starting. “No other UK airport currently operates a direct service to this destination and so we expected it to be popular. With over 200,000 British-Indian people travelling to India each year, this additional flight shows the large demand within the region

for direct Amritsar services from the Midlands.” Air India Commercial Director and Board Member, Pankaj Srivastava, said: “We are committed to serving the needs of Indian Diaspora settled world

wide and the long-standing need for direct connectivity between Punjab and Birmingham. “We are delighted to add one more frequency per week between Amritsar and Birmingham, making it a three times a week operation. We are confid-

What’s New in Victoria?

he Victorian hills are alive with the sound of music after Melbourne was named live music capital of the world. However, music isn’t the only thing keeping up the tempo as the latest hotels in Melbourne opened their doors, the award winning Peninsula Hot Springs announced a number of exciting developments and there are a host of new tours and wildlife experiences for visitors to enjoy. With a total of 465 live music venues, Melbourne has become the live music capital of the world, according to new Census data. The city is home to more live

music venues per capita than any other major global city including London, New York, Tokyo or Los Angeles. The music industry generates in excess of $1.42 billion in the city; with 62,000 annual performances attracting more than 12 million patrons in Melbourne. Victoria is Australia’s second-smallest state and features a wealth of diverse regions and attractions which are easily reached from its lively capital Melbourne: from national parks teeming with wildlife to one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives (Great Ocean Road) – plus superb wineries and dining options.

ent that with the strong partnership with Birmingham Airport, we together will be able to grow traffic flow from the Midlands to India”. The additional Amritsar flight will be operated by the new Boeing 787-8 ‘Dreamliner’ aircraft. The cabin comprises of 256 seats with 18 lie flat business class seats and 238 in economy class.

Sizzling Summer Evenings at Efteling Efteling – the fairytale theme park in the south of Holland – has announced details of this year’s Summer Festival, or Negen Pleinen Festijn, taking place every Friday and Saturday in July and August. Allowing families in the park to make the most of long summer days and warm evenings, Efteling will stay open until 11pm on Summer Festival days, launching 6 July. All attractions are open as usual, with the only difference being that visitors will experience them under fairylights, while special events and live entertainment activities take place in nine of Efteling’s nine squares. The Summer Festival at Efteling features fairy-tale performances, pop-up stalls offering tasty summer delicacies and spectacular live musical entertainment throughout the day and into the evening. During the afternoons, a bandstand with an orchestra will perform at restaurant Het Witte Paard, while visitors can cool down with a fresh smoothie at pop-up street stalls or decorate their own ice cream.

thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 44 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018

History Beckons for Barbados’ First Female Prime Minister, Mottley

aking history, Mia Amor Mottley was recently elected as Barbados’ first female prime minister. As leader of the Barbados Labour Party she will sworn in as the country’s new PM after the party won all 30 seats in the country’s House of Assembly. With a campaign on a platform attacking high taxes and the expensive

cost of living on the island, she attributed these issues to policies ushered in by the Democratic Labour Party, which held a majority of seats in government since 2008. The landslide victory is considered a strong rebuke of the incumbent’s agenda. Leader of the Democratic Labour Party and current Prime Minister Freundel Stuart conceded defeat with the win making Mottley just the eighth prime minister to lead Barbados since the island first gained independence from Britain in 1966. While the soon-to-be prime minister now basks in her historic win, she has also faced unprecedented attacks along the way. During the campaign, some detractors accused Mottley of orchestrating an illegal tax write-off for her father in the early 1990s, and others even demanded that she publicly declare her sexuality. Supporters allege the criticism and attacks have more to do with her being female than unqualified, as Mottley has held positions in Barbadian government for nearly 30 years.

l Mia Amor Mottley

Australia Pledges Investment to Save Great Barrier Reef

ustralia’s government has pledged hundreds of millions of dollars toward protecting the Great Barrier Reef, in what’s being called the largest single investment in the embattled ecosystem ever. The administration of Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull announced Sunday it is earmarking more than AU$500 million, or $379 million in U.S. dollars, to protect the reef in partnership with the Great Barrier Reef Foundation. The reef has lost a large percentage of its coral in recent decades due to a variety of environmental stresses. Josh Frydenberg, Australia’s environment and energy minister, said: “The funds will go toward combating water pollution, predatory coraleating starfish, increasing public awareness and reef monitoring, as well as modifying surrounding businesses so that they are more environmentally sound. “Our contribution, through the

Great Barrier Reef Foundation, represents the single largest funding commitment ever for reef conservation and management in Australia’s history.” In an op-ed he stressed that “the right plan and the right investment” will ensure the reef’s survival. Some environmentalists, however, fear that the action doesn’t target the real issue at hand: global warming. The world’s largest coral reef, spanning 133,000 square miles, has endured extreme environmental strain in recent years, to the point that a fake obituary that was written for it in 2016 went viral. Coral bleaching caused by warming water temperatures has already destroyed nearly 30 percent of the reefs, according to one recent study, while crownof-thorns starfish, which eat coral, have also been blamed for a large percentage of the decline in coral cover between 1985 and 2012, according to the Australian Institute of Marine Science.

@PhoenixNewsUK

Grenfell Inquiry Open after Panorama BBC TVs recent in-depth Panorama programme highlighted the fact that hundreds of buildings, including Grenfell Tower, were fitted with plastic foam insulation. The insulation that was fitted on tragically profiled building in west London never passed the required safety tests and should never have been installed. The programme reported that Celotex, the manufacturer of the RS5000 insulation, used extra fire retardant in the product so that it qualified for a safety certificate. It is then believed that a more flammable version of the product was sold for public use, and the plastic foam insulation was used on hundreds of other buildings, including the refurbishment of Grenfell. The RS5000 insulation gives off toxic fumes, which contain cyanide, when it burns. Fire safety expert Arnold Tarling said he was shocked by the revelation about RS5000 insulation, saying: “Words fail me. This is absolutely mindblowing.” The Fire Brigades Union’s general secretary, Matt Wrack, said the allegations should be investigated. “If there are breaches of the law then those people need to be held to account,” he said. The inquiry, now open, will be look into all the deaths - including one victim who died in January, having been in hospital since the blaze.

The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018 - Page 45

A Third Of Millennials May Never Own Their Home

ne in three of British people born between 1981 and 2000 - the socalled millennial generation - are likely to be renting their homes into their retirement, according to a forecast from the think-tank Resolution Foundation. Its report found that in the current trend, less than half of millennials will own their own homes by the age of 45 with that rate likely to rise in the years after, as aging millennials inherit money or property from older generations, but around a third will remain without property when they reach retirement. Resolution Foundation’s senior policy analyst, Lindsay Judge, said: “Britain's housing problems have developed into a full-blown crisis over recent decades. A shortage of housing stock was driven property prices beyond the reach of many, with young people bearing the brunt.” Home ownership has, for generations, been the cornerstone of British selfimage but has been in steady decline in recent years. The percentage of homes occupied by their owners rather than by tenants has dropped by around 10% over the past decade, hitting a record low of 63.4% in 2016. Four in ten 30-year-olds now live in privately rented accommodation. In response to the surge in private rentals,

The record level of construction activity in UK cities is highlighting the buoyancy of city development. The latest reports in the Deloitte Real Estate Crane Survey series monitor construction activity in Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds and Belfast, each city seeing a significant increase in development across a range of sectors including: offices, residential, hotels, retail, education and student housing. In the Midlands the Birmingham Crane Survey identifies 1.4 million sq ft of new office space under construction, a 50 per cent increase on the previous year (969,000 sq ft). The surge signals the highest level of activity since this report was first published in 2002, affirming developer confidence. Birmingham has also witnessed a 10-fold increase in residential schemes starting construction last year, totalling 2,331 units in the city centre. Across the cities, the hotel sector is benefiting from serious investment as all deliver and diversify their tourist offer. the Resolution Foundation recommends introducing European-style indeterminate tenancies to bring greater stability for tenants. In the long-term, however, politicians, it is said, must take major action to resolve the shortage of affordable housing ‘before it becomes untenable.

Royal Mint site a new home for Chinese Embassy?

hina is building a new London embassy on the site of the former Royal Mint, near the City of London, deciding against relocating to the so-called new "diplomatic quarter" on the South Bank. China approached the owners of Royal Mint Court after having conducted a search across a huge number of locations in what was said to be a "very careful and considered process." The sites it is thought to have reviewed include one close to the new £750m US embassy, in Nine Elms, where the Dutch embassy has also decided to relocate, prompting some to brand the area the new "diplomatic quarter." However, rumours that China too could be moving there from its current site in Marylebone were quashed by the announcement it had agreed to buy the plot further east on Friday. It did not reveal how much it was paying for the site, which it decided on at the end of last year. The purchase of the 5.4 acre site, located opposite the Tower of London and overlooking the River Thames, comes almost

eight years after the UK Crown Estate sold the freehold of the site for £51m. As the home of the Royal Mint, ten centuries of coin production had taken place at the site. The owners, real estate adviser Delancey and LRC Group, received planning permission to build a 600,000 square foot, £750m office scheme on the land

Cranes Highlight Increase in Construction

just last year. Delancey said it had been "fully committed to building out the office development, having spent the last four years designing the scheme in conjunction with Tower Hamlets and the GLA". However, it said it was "undeniably perfect for the needs of a prestigious embassy."

thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 46 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018

SPORT - WITH STEVE WILLIAMS

Putin Invites Leaders to World Cup

Russian President Vladimir Putin invited leaders of the member states of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) to attend the FIFA World Cup in Russia. "You are all invited,” Putin told EAEU leaders during a meeting of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council in the Black Sea resort city of Sochi. “I had already said this before. Thank you for your warm wishes." The EAEU is an international organization that encourages regional economic integration through the free movement of goods, services, and people within the union. It comprises Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Russia. Russia is hosting its first-ever FIFA World Cup in 11 cities across the country.

A Sir Mo and Hero double success at Industry Awards

he wait is finally over. It might be missing some big nations, but that's what makes the FIFA World Cup the best in sports. With perennial tournament favorites Brazil looking to bounce back from their national embarrassment of 2014, defending champions Germany looking to holding on the trophy, whilst the likes of England, Spain, Argen-

tina and France, or even slight outsiders Belgium or Portugal looking to making a big splash this time round, just what can be expected in Russia? Or, indeed, what can be expected from the host themselves? Could there be, as the great Pele once predicted, an African nation anywhere near likely to lift the Trophy? Or, is there - you just never know – a complete and utter

THIS SPOT COULD BE YOURS! Reach a diverse audience worldwide Postive, Informative and Objective News Inspiring a New Generation Keeping you connected with your community

• locally • nationally • internationally

• monthly in print • weekly newsletter • daily online

0121 339 5885 0208 865 1922 www.thephoenixnewspaper.com

‘outsider’ on the verge of pouncing on an ‘unlikely’ and shocking us all? Any one of the 32 countries who have qualified must feel that they have a chance – whatever the likelihood – otherwise why be there? So, despite the usual likely ‘runners ad riders’ – Italy apart, of course, this time round – which other country can be sitting at the top table this summer? Could it be Belgium – rich in quantity and quality – but can these world beaters play as one? Portugal; despite, in fact some say because of, the early injury to talisman Christiana Ronaldo in the Finals currently holding the title of European Champi-

he ECB (England and Wales Cricket Board) have announced a wide-ranging Action Plan to transform the way it engages with South Asian communities and draw more players, fans and volunteers into every level of the game. This will involve a series of events in three ‘core cities’ including a Chance to Shine Street Tape-ball competition at Sparkhill Park in Birmingham, a schools’ cricket competition at Bradford Park Avenue Cricket Ground in Yorkshire and a women's and girls’ cricketing session at Leyton County Ground Sport Centre in East London. Lord Patel of Bradford, the ECB Senior Independent Director, who has driven the development of the Action Plan, said: “As a British Asian who grew up playing cricket in the streets and on the pitches of Bradford in the 1960s, I have first-hand experience of the enormous benefits of our sport. “Cricket gave me the confidence, connections and opportunities to meet new people outside my community, as well as develop life-long friendships. The passion South Asian communities in the UK have for cricket remains high but, over 50 years later there is still so much untapped potential. This plan will help to change that.” As part of the ECB’s ambition to make cricket more representative and reflective of modern com-

ons. Can they add the global title 2-years on? What about the host nation? Can they ride on the coat-tale of them staging the FIFA World Cup Finals? "It's impossible not to dream about lifting the World Cup,” says England captain, Harry Kane. "I believe we can win it anyone can.” It’s a sentiment surly shared by the likes of Ronaldo, Messi, Neymar, Dzyuba, Reus, Lukaku, Giroud, Morata, Lewandowski and, in truth, all the world’s greats who will be on show this month. “It's the biggest competition in the world," says Kane. No argument there – so, ‘Bring it On!!!’

The 17th BT Sport Industry Awards provided a double celebration for athletics as Britain’s four time gold-winning Olympics legend Sir Mo Farah was presented with the ‘Coutts Outstanding Contribution to Sport Award,’ while the organising committee of last year’s IAAF World Championships won ‘Entertainment Experience of the Year’ for the creation, development and production of official mascot Hero the Hedgehog. Farah’s track career came to a close last summer with 10,000m gold and 5,000m silver at the IAAF World Championships in London as well as victories in his last UK race and last ever over 12 and a half laps in Zurich. A proud and delighted Sir Mo said: “It’s a real honour to be receiving the Outstanding Contribution Sport Award. We all know that success is really about the hard graft and the sacrifices behind the scenes – and it means a lot for that hard work to be recognised.” Hero, created by nine-year-old Elinor after a nationwide competition hosted by organisers and Blue Peter, was arguably the unexpected star of the Championships, hitting 1.6 billion potential social media impressions and 4 million views alone from two videos.

ECB Focusing on South Asian Communities

munities, a South Asian Advisory Group was put together by Chief Strategy Officer David Mahoney. The group includes experienced individuals from within and outside the game such as Wasim Khan, Isa Guha, Mark Nicholas, Manoj Badale, Ron Kalifa among many others. ECB Chief Executive Officer, Tom Harrison, said: “Cricket is a force for good in society and our job is to ensure that it makes a positive impact on as many people’s lives as possible. We now have a much deeper

understanding of how the game can play a part in multi-faith, multi-lingual, multi-cultural communities, whether that’s creating a match-day experience which respects everyone’s customs, renovating derelict council buildings into cricket centres in urban areas or putting the game’s talent scouts into more diverse communities. Cricket has a wonderful opportunity to grow and become a sport that is truly diverse and representative of its broad fan base.”

@PhoenixNewsUK

The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018 - Page 47

Page 42 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2018

NFL & Subway Expand Schools Flag Tournament Riders Retain BBL Trophy as Suns hold on to WBBL Crown

eicester Riders retained their Play-Off title, and continued their impressive winning streak, thanks to an impressive display that saw them overcome London Lions 81-60 at The O2 Arena, in the capital. The victory marks the Riders' fourth BBL Play-Off Final win and also completes the team's 2017-18 treble, having already secured the BBL Trophy and BBL Championship - the club's second consecutive treble winning season. After a tight opening 10 minutes, they produced a decisive 10-2 run to end the half and seize the game's momentum. Leicester outscored London 2714 during the second quarter. Riders’ Trayvonn Wright was

voted MVP, for his 11 points, 13 rebounds and 2 blocks off the bench. He said: "We stuck to the game plan and we made the shots we are used to hitting. Everyone did their jobs individually and that always works for a team." Head Coach Rob Paternostro, said: "It was disappointing coming into the game that people weren't given us the credit of favourites and I could sense at the hotel last night that the players were ready to prove people wrong. “We are a Championship calibre team and we did it on the defensive end today - to hold them to 60 points and 34% shooting, when they average 87 points a game, just goes to show how important defence is to the guys."

Two-time Slammer Returning for Edgbaston Classic

i m b l e do n champion Garbiñe Muguruza is among the players set to compete at the Nature Valley Classic in Birmingham this month that will see some of the world's best tennis stars take to the grass court in the hope of winning the coveted trophy. Australian Open and world number one Caroline Wozniacki also intends to compete, along with last year's champ Petra Kvitova, Nottingham winner Donna Vekic and British No.1 Johanna Konta who also plans to play at the Nottingham Open and the Eastbourne International on the run up to Wimbledon. The two-time Grand Slam champion said: “It was an incredible few weeks for me playing on the grass last year. Winning my first Wimbledon title was so special and I can’t

l Garbiñe Muguruza wait to play in front of British crowds again. The courts in Birmingham are great and it’s always a very strong line-up. It’s a wonderful event that I always enjoy playing." The Spaniard reached the semi-finals last year before going on to win at Wimbledon.

chools from the West Midlands gathered to compete in the NFL Flag regional tournament in partnership with the Subway brand aimed at helping primary school children develop their characters by focusing on the NFL core values of respect, integrity, responsibility, resilience plus the importance of getting active through NFL Flag. Held at the University of Birmingham, pupils from Oasis Academy Woodview, Hawkesley Church Primary Academy, Sacred Heart Primary school, George Betts Primary Academy and Woodthorpe Junior & Infant School took their part in the programme which aims to bring the gridiron sport closer to everyone and encourage families to get fit and active. Running in London since 2014 and expanding regionally in 2017, more than 10,000 school children across the UK have been involved since its launch with the first stage of UK expansion rolled out to Leeds and Birmingham. The programme has since expanded with Bristol and Manchester joining in January this year. Currently, the University of Birmingham, Leeds Beckett, Manchester Met University, Brunel, University of Greenwich and The Pride Football Academy have signed up to provide NFL ambassadors, with more universities to follow.

Ambassadors from The Pride Football Academy were also lead coaches for each school team at UoB launch. “This programme is all about teaching the children core values,” said NFL Head of Communities, Jason Brisbane. “It’s about teaching them how to play, healthy eating and making healthy choices, how to communicate and respect. “It’s an all-inclusive game – there’s a position for everyone.” Grassroots Development Officer, Phoebe Schecter, continued: “We are tapping into the UK because there is a growing number of Brits who are succeeding in the NFL The NFL Flag Tournament is currently aimed at children aged between 9 and 12, but we are also targeting older players who have the natural attributes – but are not aware, plus former rugby players who want to try their hand out in a new game.” Phoebe, from Connecticut, in the US, played gridiron for the University of Birmingham herself. In the days NFL Flag Tournament-sponsored by Subway stores, George Betts Primary Academy were crowned winners and as a result, they have qualified to play in the NFL Summer Bowl the season finale flag football tournament for UK schools - taking place on July 18 at King’s House Sports Ground in London.

l Phoebe Schlecter, centre, coaching children at the NFL Flag Tournament