CHAMPIONING DIVERSITY, EQUALITY & INCLUSION ACROSS ALL COMMUNITIES Join Us And The Commonwealth Celebrating HRH Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee!
JUNE 2022
Connecting Communities - Inspiring A New Generation
Look Out For My Jamaica Birthday Special As Part Of The Jamaica 60th Supplement in the July Edition!
DARE TO DREAM A
former nurse has become the first Black person to be appointed mayor of Wolverhampton. Councillor Sandra Samuels OBE is the first politician of African Caribbean heritage to hold the post in 200 years. She is also the 11th female
mayor of the city and hopes her appointment will inspire underrepresented groups. Cllr Samuels took over the role from Greg Brackenridge at the annual council meeting. "Becoming Mayor of the City of Wolverhampton will be my life’s greatest honour," she said.
Her appointment follows the election of Joanne Anderson in Liverpool, who became the first Black woman to lead a major UK city as mayor in 2021. Ms Samuels said that she hoped to inspire others from underrepresented groups to believe in themselves and know that anything is possible.
Councillor Samuels said: “I am proud beyond words that my fellow city councillors are due to make me the first person of African Caribbean heritage in 200 years to hold this most prestigious role.
Continued On Page 5
Meet Birmingham's New Lord Mayor, Just In Time For The Commonwealth Games! - Page 10
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or the last three months or so, the President of Russia, Vladimir Putin, has been leading his country in a ‘military operation’ (or invasion) of Ukraine. Part of President Putin’s reason for this attack is his fears and concerns about the eastward expansion of member states of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO). Russia fears that, if Ukraine joins NATO, the forces of this collective military alliance would be at its very borders. It is not surprising, therefore, that the Russian government is alarmed at this. The question is, however, by attacking Ukraine, has Putin’s attempts to curtail or reduce the impact of NATO, back-fired? At the height of the Cold War in the 1950s and 1960s, the Soviet Union's power was at its peak, and the USSR and its associated Warsaw Pact countries made up about half of Europe. By the early 1990s, the USSR no longer existed and Russia’s political influence in Eastern Europe had been significantly reduced. Gradually, over the next two decades, NATO membership expanded from an original group of 12 states to 30 in 2022. Back in 1949 when NATO was established, the primary aim of this intergovernmental organisation was to serve as a military deterrence against the Soviet Union and its underpinning communist ideology. Today, whilst Russia and the Warsaw Pact countries have experienced a relative decline, the military alliance of NATO has expanded to 30 states, of which 28 are in Europe and the other two are the USA and Canada. By contrast, many of the former Eastern European communist countries, once part of the Soviet Union, are now members of NATO. So, although President Putin claims his military operation in Ukraine is driven by the need for a ‘demilitarisation and de-Nazification’ of Ukraine, perhaps the real reason is the President’s fears over the creeping expansion of NATO on his country’s borders. In fact, just before the Russian invasion, President Putin warned against the expansion of NATO in Eastern Europe. His fears are that if Ukraine becomes a member of NATO,
HAS RUSSIA’S ATTACK ON UKRAINE IN ORDER TO REDUCE NATO’S INFLUENCE BACKFIRED?
then Russia would be totally encircled, and possibly, eventually attacked by the West. By attacking Ukraine, therefore, this sends a powerful message to the Western alliance making up NATO. Ideally, President Putin would prefer for NATO to retreat to its pre 1997 position. The difficulty here, is, to what extent former communist states of Eastern Europe would want to go back to such a situation. Afterall, they volunteered to
join NATO, wrongly or rightly, because of the perceived economic and collective security it would offer them. Ideologically, President Putin is also worried that Ukraine might develop into a stable prosperous democracy, similar to other Western states, which could demonstrate the success of Western democracy over communist and totalitarian regimes. This, of course, would further isolate President Putin
ideologically. The dual and simultaneous enlargement of the EU and NATO over the last three decades have been associated with the general economic success and stable democracies. This is in stark contrast to Russia, which is still very much an emerging economy, alongside Brazil, India, China and South Africa. One of the major impacts of the current war in Ukraine is that both Finland and Sweden are now keen to join the NATO membership. Prior to the conflict, they were both historically neutral countries. The fact they are both seeking to do this, amid concerns over Russia ’s war in Ukraine, is most telling. This should be a cause for concern for Russia because both countries actually cover more of Russia’s border than Ukraine. By joining NATO, the Stockholm and Helsinki governments want to protect Finland's 830-mile border with Russia against Putin's aggression. In effect, therefore, as a result of the war, Russia’s border with NATO states, that it is seeking to reduce, would be more than doubled. This is the main reason why Putin invaded Ukraine. Even if Ukraine now decides that it will put its application to join NATO on hold for the time being, Russia’s military operation or invasion in Ukraine, has potentially resulted in doing the very opposite of what President Putin originally intended. Not only will Russia have more of its country sharing borders with NATO countries, but the organisation would have increased from 30 to 32 member states. Surely, this is not what Putin wants, but if he continues his invasion, it seems NATO will increase rather than decrease in size and military and economic significance.
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The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2022 - Page 3
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Don't miss our Commonwealth Supplement 'Get Set'
l A few of the thousands of bikers have helped raise more than £100,000
Check Out Page 41 For The Full Feature!
TENTH ANNIVERSARY BIKE4LIFE RIDE OUT & FESTIVAL RAISES RECORD FUNDS FOR LIFESAVING MISSIONS T housands of bikers have helped raise more than £100,000, funding 61 future lifesaving missions, after taking part in Midlands Air Ambulance Charity’s most successful Bike4Life Ride Out and Festival. 3,500 motorcyclists and hundreds of pillions took part in the annual organised 23mile route from Meole Brace, in Shrewsbury, to one of the charity’s three operational airbases at RAF Cosford, in Shropshire. The event, which took place late April, was the most successful yet, helping to raise the six figure sum for Midlands Air Ambulance Charity. This means that 31 air ambulance and an additional 30 critical care cars missions have been made possible. The event, which was officially sponsored by the RAC, was supported by a number of famed VIPs including:
• Mathew ‘Ollie’ Ollerton – A former UK Special Forces Soldier and widely known as a directing staff (DS) from Channel 4's popular SAS: Who Dares Wins. • Carl 'Foggy' Fogarty MBE – motorcycle racer and one of the most successful world superbike racers who holds second highest number of race wins at 59. Sunday saw Carl take part in his fifth Bike4Life event. • Steve Parrish – British former professional motorcycle and truck racer, and television commentator who was a teammate to Barry Sheene in the 1977 500cc world championship. • Douglas "Dougie" Lampkin MBE – former professional motorcycle trials and endurocross rider, notable for being a seven-time motorcycle trials world outdoor champion. • Danny Buchan – British superbike racer for the SYNETIQ BMW Racing 2022
team and two times British superstock champion. Emma Gray, chief operating officer for Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, said: “Since its humble beginnings in 2010 as a small ride out, now in its tenth year, Bike4Life has grown in popularity and support, and we have now reached a record number of riders, festival goers and lifesaving missions funded by the event. “Road traffic collisions made up a third of the incidents our clinical crew attended in 2021, and sadly a great number of these involve motorcyclists in time critical need of rapid, advanced clinical intervention. "We are truly grateful for the support shown by the biker community at Bike4Life and are truly amazed by their kindness and generosity, which has helped fund future missions for our rapid response, prehospital service”
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Page 4 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2022
NEWS
Youth Homeless Parliament Stresses The Importance Of Early Intervention THIRTY YOUNG people from across the UK who have all experienced homelessness came together to influence positive change as they took part in national Youth Homeless Parliament. An idea inspired by the late Jack Dromey MP, a man who was fiercely passionate about ensuring children and young people could experience the democratic process first hand in the heart of Parliament, Youth Homeless Parliament (YHP) aims to ensure that the voices and lived experiences of young people who have experienced homelessness are heard, and that Government has the information it needs when making policy that impacts young people across the country. Almost ten years later, YHP continues to support decision makers with a list of recommendations that come directly from those with lived experience. This year’s report
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TALENTED ARTIST BRINGS SPLASH OF COLOUR TO NEW OFFICE SPACE
focused on a variety of topics, including the impact of COVID 19 on young people, the importance of early interventions and why teaching people about equality and inclusion is so vital for society as a whole. Jean Templeton, chief executive of St Basils and Chair of the YHP, said, “ For the last 10 years, young people with lived experience of homelessness, from around the country, have consulted and supported each other to turn their lived experience into advice and recommendations which help government and those with power to improve responses and ultimately prevent other young people from experiencing homelessness. This contribution is unique and invaluable, and I am hugely grateful to young people for their commitment and to government for providing the mechanism that is Youth Homeless Parliament."
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talented artist has scooped £150 after winning a competition to brighten up office space. The Open College Network West Midlands has recently redecorated its offices and training rooms, and while they look clean and smart, they were sorely lacking artwork on the walls. It held an Art for the Office competition and invited students on creative courses with all its partner organisations, including Adult Education Wolverhampton, to submit entries. The winning entry came from Bernadette Brady. Her watercolour abstract of Adult Education Wolverhampton’s art group shows their feelings and their imagination of colour surrounding them as they paint on canvas. Bernadette, 63, said: “Adult Education Wolverhampton
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has enabled my fellow students and I to have use of an art studio, and my creative learning development and practical experience have not only encouraged my self-confidence and belief that I have the potential and aspiration to become a fulltime artist, but also led me to enter the Art for the Office competition.” Councillor Dr Michael Hardacre, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, said: “Bernadette has demonstrated that the talents of our Adult Education Wolverhampton students know no bounds, and I warmly congratulate her on winning this competition for her excellent piece of abstract art.”
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The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2022 - Page 5
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WOLVERHAMPTON ELECTS FIRST BLACK MAYOR IN NEARLY 200 YEARS Continued From Front Page
“It is my sincere hope that wearing the Mayoral ceremonial chains of office of our great city as a proud black lady will inspire others from underrepresented groups to believe in themselves and know that anything is possible. “This is why the theme for my year in office will be ‘Dare to Dream’ - it’s the ability to hope and desire a better future. “The city will have my unwavering commitment as Mayor, there is so much to look forward to with Her Majesty the Queen’s
Platinum Jubilee celebrations and Wolverhampton’s participation as a venue in the Commonwealth Games. “I’m so looking forward to being a hard working ambassador for the people of this city, getting out and meeting them and celebrating the rich tapestry of our diverse communities.” Following a four-decade career working as a nurse, theatre sister and manager in the NHS, she became a councillor in 2004 and currently represents the Ettingshall ward for the Labour Party.
In 2015, she was presented with an OBE by the Queen for services to local government and politics. The new mayor's chosen charities will be Wolverhampton African Caribbean Community Initiative (ACCI), Compton Care and Wolverhampton Sickle Cell Care and Activity Centre. Councillor Samuels’ consort during her Mayoral year will be her husband of 40 years Karl Samuels. Dr Michael Hardacre is set to become Deputy Mayor for 2022 to 2023.
l Councillor Samuels’ with her consort Karl Samuels.
Royal Appointment For Head Of Adult Education Wolverhampton THE HEAD OF ADULT Education Wolverhampton was among the special guests at a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace last month. Joanne Keatley was nominated to receive an invitation to the event by HOLEX, a national network for over 140 adult and community learning providers across England in recognition of her services to education. She said: "I was thrilled to be nominated, and because this happened before the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, my excitement lasted for several years before the Garden Party was finally able to go ahead. "I took my eldest son, Joab with me, and it was special to share the day with him. The day was lovely, despite the
l Joanne Keatley with her son Joab at the Royal Garden Party absolutely appalling, very British, weather. Prince Charles, Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, and Princess Anne spent hours with guests who were lined up for a glimpse, a hand shake or,
even better, a chat." Joanne qualified as a teacher in 1991, and enjoyed teaching hospitality and catering in colleges for nearly a decade. Her passion for adult education started in a small voluntary sector organisation before progressing through various layers of management to vice principal and principal roles. She said: "I joined Adult Education Wolverhampton almost four years ago and have loved working for the service ever since. It may be a cliché, but I continue to be inspired by the dedicated teachers and staff around me and the many stories of how adult education has given people a second chance and helped them on a positive journey."
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TEAM BIRMINGHAM CELEBRATE TENTH TRIUMPH AT CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW
A Wanis Recognised By Her Majesty The Queen In Birthday Honours IT’S NOT EVERY day you get recognised by The Queen, but on the occasion of Her Majesty’s 96th birthday, Wanis International Foods was delighted to be honoured with a Queen’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade. A family business founded nearly six decades ago, when Queen Elizabeth was in her mid-thirties, Wanis was recognised for five years of uninterrupted growth and commended for its commitment to equality and diversity. To celebrate, their Export Team was joined by H.E. Anthony B. Severin OBE and
Angela St. Denis of the Saint Lucian High Commission, to discuss opportunities to increase trade with Saint Lucia.
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display, celebrating Birmingham’s status a Proud Host City for the 2022 Commonwealth Games, has earned the city council its tenth consecutive Gold Medal at the Chelsea Flower Show. Flowers grown at the council’s own nurseries and features linked to the Birmingham 2022 sporting competition and venues made up the eye-catching display, which has an interpretation of the official Games logo as its centerpiece. Councillor Ian Ward, Leader of Birmingham City Council, said: “Congratulations to everyone from our parks and nurseries team – they have done a fantastic job of promoting the city and our status as Proud Host City for the Commonwealth Games with their bold and brilliant entry. “The Chelsea Flower Show is a prestigious platform to promote the biggest event Birmingham will have ever held, and in winning this gold medal, we are getting a taste of the spirit of friendly competition that will be coming to our city. This amazing floral display perfectly combines some of our most iconic landmarks and the various sports that will be contested at venues across Birmingham and the West Midlands during what will be an unforgettable summer.” During press day for the show, the council hosted visits by Team
England athletes, who expressed their appreciation for the artistic skills behind the display. Diver Tonia Couch said: “It is so beautiful. I just love the amount of colour, it’s just so eye-catching and meaningful because there are lots of different sports involved in
the Commonwealth Games. My favourite part of the display has got to be the diving! The diving board with the water coming out is absolutely beautiful.” Race walker Tom Bosworth added: “It’s absolutely incredible. To learn all about it and see all
the little pointers to the different sports is just absolutely amazing and to know there is 3000 flowers in it is just remarkable. The whole thing is great. I’ve always wanted to come to the Chelsea Flower Show.”
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HUNDREDS TURN OUT TO SAY THEIR FINAL ‘FAREWELL’ TO BARRINGTON PATTERSON A s his cortege left Birmingham City’ St. A n d r e w s ground, with fans and loved ones setting off flares and waving blue and white balloons, hundreds of mourners turned out for the funeral of much-loved community anti-gang campaigner Barrington 'Baz' Patterson. Boxing legend Frank Bruno was among the guests seen attending the service at St. Philips Cathedral. Known affectionately as One Eyed Baz, his death, and subsequent funeral, united a city in grief as crowds upon crowds including a biker gang turned up to pay tribute to Baz, a former member of
Birmingham City's Zulu Warriors hooligan group in his youth. Dying suddenly from a massive heart attack, the prominent figure received huge rounds of applause as a huge banner reading 'RIP Baz' and bearing a picture of the former gang member was unfurled from the roof of the Birmingham City football stadium. A shining example to younger people, after he turned his life around to become a famous actor, mentor and dedicated charity worker, the ex-thug, nicknamed ‘One-Eyed Baz’ - because he was blind in his left eye – was part of Birmingham City's hooligan firm the Zulu Warriors in the 1980s. He went on to star
on Danny Dyer's TV show Deadliest Men, with the EastEnders regular calling Barrington one of the most terrifying people he had ever encountered. He was blinded when he was a child after his sister threw a can at him. Tributes poured in from the former hooligans as well as from the footballing community following his death. Former Zulu Warrior Tyson Leon said: “He was a Birmingham legend who lived for his family and the Blues. He did things no other had done.” Birmingham City FC said they were saddened to learn of the passing of lifelong Bluenose, Barrington Patterson. He was 56.
The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2022 - Page 7
NEWS
New Campaign To Tackle Loneliness PUBLIC TRANSPORT will be used to connect people in a new way as part of a new Department for Transport funded 12 month pilot scheme aimed at tackling loneliness in the West Midlands. Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) has secured £460,000 funding to set up the Let’s Chat scheme which will offer those most at risk from loneliness new opportunities for social interaction as well as help and advice on a range of topics. People will be able to access the service in one of three ways: • Four dedicated buses/ mobile units going out to communities, acting as a focal point for conversations, advice
and assistance. • Opening up community meeting space within vacant shop or commercial units at five bus stations; Bilson, Coventry, Dudley, Walsall and West Bromwich. • Using eight community transport minibuses, to offer a door-to-door service for people where the lack of transport is a barrier to social contact. TfWM, which is part of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), has developed the scheme with support from Walsall Community Transport, Shencare and Community Transport (group) and is looking to work with further organisations across the region.
Simmer Down
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Page 8 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2022
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Business & Finance
RTPI READY TO SUPPORT LEVELLING UP AND REGENERATION BILL T
he Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) welcomes the inclusion of the planning system within the ‘Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill’. Planners can be an asset to the Bill, increasing living standards and home ownership, cultivating pride in place, improving transport infrastructure and population health and strengthening local leadership. Victoria Hills, Chief Executive of the RTPI said: “We welcome government recognition that a strong planning system will be essential to levelling up. We hope that such a system will help communities better shape the places they live, work and enjoy. “ O u r members stand ready to support the
Legal Comment: Response To London Law Firm Saying Staff Can Work From Home But For 20% Less Pay
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h i l i p Richardson, head of employment law at Stephensons Solicitors, commented following the announcement by London law firm Stephenson Harwood, saying it would allow staff to work remotely but pay them 20% less than their current salary. He said: “Postpandemic, many firms are trying to navigate a completely different world
of work. How and where that work is conducted has changed completely. Now employers are having to make tricky decisions about how best to keep physical office space thriving whilst also acknowledging the wants and needs of their employees. “There will be many different approaches to this issue, but cutting pay is going to raise eyebrows. Many employees feel just as productive, if not more so than if they were commuting into the office
every day. If their work and output is of a high quality, some will view the decision as harsh to penalise employees solely on the basis of where that work is done. “The risk, ultimately, is that employees don’t feel trusted and that may lead some to seek alternative employment. That said, it seems likely that this is just the tip of the iceberg and we will begin to see many more firms try and tackle this issue in the months ahead.”
Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities to develop a system. But, if we’re going to achieve the overall ambitions of Levelling Up and regeneration, we need to ensure we’re building the right homes in the right places. “It is essential that any reform comes forward as soon as possible to help prevent further delays. It is also key that all local areas have an up to date local plan, are sufficiently resourced, and open to a dialogue with their local communities, including businesses and residents current and future.” The RTPI will continue to work with Government, officials and parliamentarians based on its member’s experiences, its expertise and timely research to help shape these planning reforms. The RTPI will follow up with further analysis on the role of planning within the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill as news develops.
Skills Development To Re-charge The UK Economy by Dr. Christopher A. Johnson
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s life returns to a semblance of normality in the UK and around the world, the issue of the human factor will be more imperative as key sectors of the economy strive towards increasing production and productivity at pre-COVID-19 levels. How dire is the current situation regarding skillsets? Estimates suggest that UK productivity has reduced by 20% since the last global financial debacle (Script&Go 2021). Among the key sectors of the economy that need an infusion of human, financial and technical capability are: • Construction - worth over £100 billion per annum cand contributes to 7% to the gross domestic product (GDP). It has an ageing workforce, poor image and lacks diversity. Young people are not very attracted to careers in construction management, administration or supervision for that matter. Then there are other lucrative skilled areas such as engineering, plumbing and other technical professions that youngsters are unable to compete. • The Creative Industries sector is worth £115.9 billion accounting for 5.9% to the economy. There is a shortage of project management, financial and business consulting skills. Artists and cultural producers find difficulty to access adequate funding from the public purse due to lack of essential business planning and marketing strategic skills. • The Education and Training sector requires combined academic, professional, vocational and related competencies. It’s market value stands at £43.6 billion with international students worth £28.8 billion per annum (2020 estimates). This sector is performance-driven and programmes have to be integrated with curriculum and
A
ward-wInnIng journalist, editor and publisher Dr Christopher Johnson writes his monthly column in The Phoenix aiming to inform, educate and entertain.
industry standards. Workers need to have suitable interpersonal skills to complement technical proficiency. • The Health and Social Care sector benefitted from UK household purchases of approximately £21.3 billion. COVID-19 has affected staff levels, and as of March 2022, there were 100,000 plus vacancies. There are fears that low pay, fatigue, stress and shift pressures will further stymie workforce productivity. • The Social Enterprise sector contributes about £60 billion to the UK economy with competencies lacking in areas such as project management, financial management, auditing, business planning and international marketing, to name a few. This sector has tremendous potential since it often complements or supplements essential services that are lacking in mainstream or the public sector. • Transport and Logistics also represent another burgeoning sector of the economy that is often misread in terms of competitive value. The transport industry alone is worth £23.6billion to the UK's GVA employing around 735,000 including private operators. The contract logistics market was valued at Euro 88.9 billion in 2021 and is projected to be valued at Euro 109.12 billion by 2027, registering an increase of 3.47% during 20222027. This industry requires trained and skilled technicians in logistical management, technology as well as micro to small distributors and supplies that can manage in increase demands. E-commerce which is also worth billions, is a big driver of this twin-sector. While the UK economy sluggishly recovers, despite recessionary signs, the epicentre of ‘economic gravity’ will be not only be demand-side but also supply-side economics.
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i9 Development Wins Regional RICS UK Award CITY OF WOLVERHAMPTON’S new i9 development has won a regional Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) UK award. The city centre office complex came out on top to claim the best Commercial Development honour in the West Midlands. It will now go forward, with the other eight regional winners from across the UK, to the Grand Final, at the Londoner Hotel, London, on Friday, October 21. The RICS UK judges said: “This project showcased a great collaboration between public and private sectors, linking property and infrastructure, and delivered throughout a challenging period.” i9 emerged following the success of the i10 building on the opposite side of Railway Drive in the city centre, with both being delivered by the Council and leading property developer, Ion. It is the next step in developing a commercial quarter on the back of the development of the award-winning Wolverhampton Interchange.
The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2022 - Page 9
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BIG WEEKEND WREXHAM AIMING TO EMULATE COVENTRY FOLLOWING SUCCESSFUL CITY OF CULTURE YEAR
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fter celebrating the final month as the UK's City of Culture, Coventry saw multiple events of varying sizes take over the city, including seeing over 1000 local people taking part in This Is The City a parade through the streets of Coventry, with the procession spanning 1km in length. Each section of the parade was based on the 12 themes that have led the UK City of Culture year: Welcome, Sanctuary, Harmony, Freedom, Peace, Utopia, Coventry in the World, City of Light, Being Human, Hope, Amazing Women and Green Futures. A unique and dramatic drone display showed a city rising phoenix-like from tough economic times. And that is what the project aims to do - bring communities together, tap into creativity and attract investment. There was the world premiere of 2 Tone: The Sound of Coventry, the film that tells the remarkable story of how a global music sensation was born in Coventry. Co-produced by Coventry UK City of Culture Trust and Full Fat Television, this special hour-long documentary took a deep dive into the history of the
2 Tone movement in Coventry, featuring a rare interview with 2 Tone founder, Jerry Dammers, who revealed how he came up with the ideas behind the 2 Tone revolution.
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Research into the value of such events both in the UK and Europe has found that they work best when they help projects grow even after their year in the spotlight ends.
Coventry looks set to be one of those, according to Dr Franco Bianchini, an associate director of the Centre for Cultural Value at Leeds University. "I think it's a very good example
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of a new type of City of Culture programme," he said. "They paid great attention to projects in the community and projects that are going to last and have a legacy. It's really a step in the right direction." Being host city brought a boost for some like Femi Dokunmu, who runs a music studio. He said: "With music being a big part of culture I've been working with a lot of youth foundations trying to bring people together to work with the whole City of Culture and hopefully bring Coventry more into the light." Positive Youth Foundation’s Larna Andrews added: “City of Culture has laid the groundwork for future success. "The different events in the city mean that our young people have had opportunities, paid placements and exposure which I think is so important. It doesn't stop here! Having finished on a high – with the star-studded Radio1 Big Weekend line-up and passed the City of Culture baton to its successor (Wrexham), Coventry aims to remain a vibrant part of the UK's cultural life, and aims to build on its success …despite its Covid-affected travails!
CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS
Page 10 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2022
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NEW LORD MAYOR TAKES OFFICE As Eyes Of The World Focus In On Exciting Summer
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by Steve Williams
irmingham city’s councillors have elected Maureen Cornish as their new Lord Mayor who, she says, will be the focal point of the communities she will be representing, as well as help promote the city to forge national and international links. Born in the heart of the city, in Hockley, she joined the Conservative Party in Sutton Coldfield before becoming Chair of the Four Oaks Branch – a position she held for 19 years. And, as Birmingham's new Lord Mayor, she said that as the first citizen of Birmingham, she will conduct her duties accordingly, and with great pride. “I feel great honour and I’m very fortunate to take on the position,” she said. “It's going to be an amazing
year – one in which everyone will enjoys.” She went on: “Everyone has worked extremely hard and, come out of an 18-month lockdown; people are just so looking forward to coming out, meeting people and having joy.” After a highly successful career in sales in her early years, at 23, she and her husband set sail for Australia, where she continued in that field – from Sydney to the New South Wales border to Brisbane. Settled with two children, she always took an active part in community life. On her return to the UK, she served as a Justice of the Peace in Adult, Youth, and Family Courts and a Governor in primary and secondary schools in Sutton Coldfield and also undertook voluntary work in a local cancer support unit. Always passionate about helping and
supporting young people and their families, Maureen served on both statutory and legislative bodies with contributions including being on the planning committee, where she witnessed first-hand Birmingham’s transformed. "It has been a privilege to have played a part in the city’s progression," she said. “And now, it’s going to be so again serving as Lord Mayor – especially with the eyes of the world looking at this great city during this summer’s Commonwealth Games.” Standing centre stage, she will be welcoming those who have travelled to Birmingham during the opening ceremony. As Lord Mayor, Maureen Cornish is looking forward to meeting and sharing experiences with community groups across the city of Birmingham…and beyond!
l Lord Mayor Councillor Maureen Cornish
Call For Volunteers To Trial App Designed To Support Disabled People When Travelling THE WEST MIDLANDS Combined Authority (WMCA) are on the lookout for disabled volunteers who can help trial a new journey planner aimed at removing barriers on public transport for those with long term health conditions. The new service will look to allow better coordination of personal travel assistance needs, between the transport operator and the destination host, by alerting each stage of a journey when a person is on the way who needs additional support. The creation of the planner is part of IncludeMe WM, a regional approach to making the West Midlands an exemplar region for engaging disabled people and people with long term health conditions to be physically active. It aims to put disabled people and people with long term health conditions at the heart of all conversations. The trial will take place on transport routes serving four West Midlands leisure facilities in Coventry and Wolverhampton: • Coventry Life The Wave • Coventry Life Alan Higgs Centre • Wolverhampton Active Central
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• Wolverhampton Active Bert Williams Leisure Centre Those who participate in the trial will have their cost of the journey covered automatically on booking and as a thank you, volunteers will also receive Amazon vouchers at the end of each journey. Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands, said, “We are always striving as a region to make our transport network as friendly, welcoming and accessible as possible. With this aim in mind, I am pleased as a region we champion our IncludeMe WM agenda which sets out
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our ambition to be an exemplar region for engaging with and encouraging physical activity amongst disabled people and those with other long term health conditions. “We are inviting residents to volunteer to trial a new app that provides the less able bodied with a journey planner designed to remove barriers they may face whilst navigating public transport. I encourage locals to step forward and help improve quality of life for the fellow West Midlanders.”
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The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2022 - Page 11
A ROYAL INVITATION
THE PHOENIX NEWSPAPER 10TH ANNIVERSARY GALA AWARDS AND LEGACY TOUR
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PRESS RELEASE
he Phoenix Newspaper is proud, privileged, and humbled to announce it will be celebrating its Glittering 10th Anniversary Gala Dinner and Awards Presentation Ceremony, as well as Jamaica’s 60th Anniversary of Independence, and the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Year at an exclusive venue in Accra, Ghana on the 30th September 2022. As a Commonwealth Newspaper, we are proud to celebrate with all the countries of the Commonwealth, most of which will have descended on Birmingham just a month prior for the fantastic Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, the home of The Phoenix Newspaper. In the year of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum
Jubilee, it’s fitting that her Commonwealth will be coming together for such an unforgettable event, and in the United Kingdom too! Once the festivities of the games are over, all roads will lead to Accra, to celebrate Queen Elizabeth’s Jubilee, and most importantly, to recognise the traditional Kings and Queens across Africa. For the first time this year the awards categories will not be up for public vote, as this year we will be awarding significant figures across Africa and the diaspora. On the night, it will be a glorious and spectacular enlightenment as the traditional Kings and Queens of Africa proceed in their glory to an occasion that is fitting for this special Jubilee year. They will be joined by world leaders, governors, high ranking military officials, dignitaries, specially
invited guests and of course our wonderful readers, supporters and friends coming together to share in the successes The Phoenix Newspaper has had over the last 10 years, as well as celebrate their legacy. In 2019, at the 9th Anniversary of The Phoenix Newspaper, the Jamaica High Commissioner, the Rt Hon George Ramocan made the announcement of the special relationship that Ghana has formed with the Government of Jamaica, and there is a similar agreement that has been reached between Jamaica and Nigeria. Ghana has one of the fastest growing economies in all of Africa, so it’s an auspicious time for us to bring the positivity of The Phoenix Newspaper to the region. We invite you to come to Africa, introducing “The Legacy Tour: Be Bold” – a 3 day conference from the 27th
- 29th September in Accra, Ghana, going back to where we started, showcasing the best that Ghana has to offer, with study tours, talks from our keynote speakers and many networking opportunities. In Ghana’s Year of Return 2019, President Nana AkufoAddo invited Africans in the diaspora to unite with Africans. Many Jamaicans took up the invitation during this time, and therefore we will be celebrating the continuation of the Year of Return by highlighting the existing, thriving Jamaican community in Ghana. This will be a continuation of the celebrations for Jamaica’s 60th Anniversary of Independence, with people invited to share in this conference and to hear from our Keynote speakers about the opportunities and investments that are available to them.
An opportunity for Birmingham and the West Midlands to seize the opportunity to connect and partner with Africans and the diaspora to continue the legacy of ‘Be Bold’. Regardless of your race, colour, creed, gender or sexuality, The Phoenix Newspaper is here to spread positive news about all people, combatting the overhyped and sensationalised news pushed by the rest of the mainstream media. Only by coming together in solidarity can we move forward in such uncertain times. The Phoenix has been promoting and celebrating the power that the diversity of our nation has, inclusive of all of the sectors that make Britain ‘Great’ for a decade, and while it wasn’t an easy journey for us by any means, we now have a publication that is accepted, trusted, and loved by people of all walks of life and nationalities. This is an awards ceremony that recognises diversity, inclusion and success from all sectors and walks of life, so this year make sure you don’t miss out. This will be a royal occasion with an exclusive audience of over 500 seated guests for a grand dinner and networking opportunity with the elite. There are sponsorship opportunities
for business and commerce to engage in. These opportunities will be beneficial to all participants.
SAVE THE DATE. ANNIVERSARY GALA DINNER Friday 30th September, 2022
Special legacy 3 day conference Be Bold!! Finale Celebration of Jamaica 60th Independence Celebration to be held at Movenpick Ambassador Hotel Accra Independence Avenue Ridge, Pmb Ct 343, Accra - Ghana. We are inviting individuals, entrepreneurs, local authorities, organisations, who have a vested interest in Africa to join us as we celebrate the Commonwealth, Connecting Communities to Inspire the Next Generation. For further information, or to express an interest, please email us at info@phoenixgalaawards.com.
Page 12 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2022
CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS
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ADOPTION & FOSTERING
CHARITY HIGHLIGHTS URGENT NEED FOR MORE FOSTER FAMILIES T oo often, due to a lack of foster carers, children are placed with foster families away from their local communities, and sibling groups are separated, the UK’s leading fostering charity, The Fostering Network, warns. This issue was highlighted during Foster Care Fortnight. Across the UK, around 9,265
more fostering families are needed, to make sure every child that can’t live with their own family gets the care they need and are well supported within their community. Foster carers who can support sibling groups are particularly needed, to ensure that children can be cared for together and don’t lose vital connections to their family. Currently, there are over 70,000
Find The Best In You By Fostering For Wolverhampton
children living with almost 56,000 foster families in the UK, and the number of children coming into care keeps rising. The reasons children become looked after vary widely. What they need from their community is local people to come forward to become foster families, to stand by their side and to be there for them no matter what. Foster carers provide support
and care in a family setting and enable children to stay in their local community with everything that is familiar to them. This minimises further disruption to their lives by helping them stay in their school, close to their friends, and maintaining connections with family members. Kevin Williams, chief executive of The Fostering Network, says: “We urgently need more foster
carers to come forward to care for children within their local communities. Foster carers are the bedrock of children’s social care; they are vital in our society and our young people rely on their care, dedication, passion and skills to support them when they need it most.”
Barnardo’s NI Announces New Foster To Adopt Service
CHILDREN’S CHARITY, Barnardo’s Northern Ireland, has announced ‘foster to adopt,’ a new service that allows children in need of a safe and loving home to be placed with prospective adopters on a fostering basis. Introduced during Foster Care Fortnight 2022, the vital service will help to achieve the best match for both a child and their prospective adopter and will reduce the number of moves that vulnerable children experience. By placing children with their prospective adopters
on an initial fostering basis, Barnardo’s Northern Ireland provides an opportunity for the child and foster carer to develop a relationship while the legal process of agreeing the plan of adoption is undertaken. The service will focus on placing children with complex needs, older children and siblings. Priscilla McLoughlin, operations manager of the fostering and adoption service at Barnardo’s Northern Ireland, said: “By approving applicants as both foster carers
and adopters, children can be placed as early as possible with foster carers who will hopefully become their legal family, through adoption. This also enables the foster carers to develop their relationship with the child so they can feel confident that progressing to adoption is right for them, their family and importantly, the child.” The Charity reports that children across Northern Ireland enter the care system for a multitude of reasons, and that there is often a combination
PEOPLE WANTING to find out more about fostering for Wolverhampton were invited to get in touch or take part in an online information event during Foster Care Fortnight (9-22 May). Information events took place via Microsoft Teams with each event, lasting no more than an hour, offering an opportunity to find out more about this rewarding career, including the support and financial benefits on offer. It was also an opportunity to speak directly to existing foster carers and find out first-hand what it is like to be a foster carer. The theme for this year’s Foster Care Fortnight #FosteringCommunities - celebrated the strength and resilience of fostering communities in Wolverhampton and all they do to ensure children are cared for and supported to thrive. Foster carers can be single, married or in a relationship – and they won't be on their own as help and support is available 24 hours a day. They receive ‘buddy support’ from experienced foster carers who are there to help and guide them and carers receive a regular, tax exempt fee and allowance to cover the cost of bringing up the child. Fees and allowances start from £383 to £440 per week depending on the child’s age. of factors in any one case, for example, drug and alcohol dependency, coupled with poor family support. Other reasons may be mental health concerns, domestic violence, a relationship breakdown or parents who have been through the care system themselves, who have experienced disrupted attachments, and may be unable to sustain relationships or parent their child safely. Heather Watson, Barnardo’s foster carer and adopter, explained: “If I had to give somebody advice, or go back in time, I would have started this journey sooner. We’ve been doing this for ten years. You see the difference you can make in these wee children’s lives.”
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CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS
The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2022 - Page 13
MARKING 70 YEARS OF UNFALTERING SERVICE TO HER PEOPLE T by Steve Williams
he sheer amount of confidence and admiration that the British public, as well as the Commonwealth, have for Queen Elizabeth II is testimony of her tenacity to solidify her claim as one of the greatest of British monarchs in history. In the past few years, many royal family members – such as Meghan Markle, Prince Harry, Sophie, Countess of Wessex, Prince William, and Kate Middleton – have taken up the mantle and become extremely popular. Throughout her over 70 years on the throne, Her Royal Highness has never let her people down when it comes to communicating heartfelt emotions. And that’s why she is beloved my many. In a time where monarchies across the world seem to be losing steam and public appeal, Queen Elizabeth II has steered the British monarchy into a path of continuous relevance and impact. “I declare before you all,” She once said, “that my whole life, whether it be long or short, shall be devoted to your service and the service of our great imperial family to which we all belong.” Holding the record of being Britain’s longest-reigning monarch succeeding her father King George VI in 1953 - Elizabeth became the head of Commonwealth realms and has carried herself in a manner that befits a true monarch for 70 years with her ability of keeping up with the changing times and earning enormous praises from all corners of the world. Seeing it all: World War II, the Korean War, the Cold War and the Falkland Islands War, in spite of all that, she showed nerves of steel in shepherding her subjects out of some pretty difficult situations. And even as Princess Elizabeth, she notably played a vital role in keeping the nation upbeat and strong during the Battle of Britain in WWII. Portraits of her being projected onto Stonehenge in tribute to Her Majesty The Queen’s 70-year reign, was just one of the highlights to mark an unprecedented anniversary, with events and initiatives taking place throughout the year, which include a unique, unprecedented four day UK bank holiday weekend, ahead of her Platinum Jubilee celebrations. The Queen’s traditional birthday parade, Trooping the Colour, at Horse Guards Parade in London, starts proceedings, with Her Majesty also attending The Derby at Epsom Downs, followed by the Platinum Party at Buckingham Palace and the Platinum Jubilee Pageant; featuring over 10,000 participants from across the UK and Commonwealth - and broadcast around the world.
Local street party plans saw over 60,000 people signed up to host a Big Jubilee Lunch, offering friends, family and neighbours the chance to reconnect and celebrate. People have even been planning their own with free starter packs that were on offer. Tea dances, community bake-offs, street parties and simple family gettogethers are to be the order of the day, as plenty of ways to celebrate the Jubilee come into play, like planting a tree as part of The Queen’s Green Canopy initiative, to encourage everyone across the UK and the Commonwealth, to commemorate her service by helping their local environment. Although tree planting season doesn’t start again until October, you can start planning now. “Over the years I have observed that some attributes of leadership are universal,” She said, “and is often about finding ways of encouraging people to combine their efforts, their talents, their insights, their enthusiasm and their inspiration to work together.” 2022, though proving challenging at times, is a year where Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II stands supreme as she observes a modem, vibrant and connected Commonwealth.
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NEWS
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CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS
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THE EDUCATION, FUNERALTRAINING OF MOMMA AND JEN RECRUITMENT
g n i t o Prom xcellence E
As part of our ongoing commitment to promoting the positive and inspirational individuals and organisations in our communities, The Phoenix Newspaper presents Promoting Excellence - a closer look at our role models, entrepreneurs, community figures and success stories.
HOMEBUILDER HELPS STORIES COME TO LIFE
F
or National Share A Story Month, tales were recently brought to life for pupils at Little Hill Primary School in Wigston, thanks to an event organised by David Wilson Homes. Around 420 schoolchildren from Key Stages 1, 2 and 3
were able to attend a morning of magical storytelling hosted by professional storyteller Sue Perks. Sue created and performed a tailored experience for the pupils, who enjoyed interactive sessions bringing to life the traditional stories and tales. Fiona Gavagan, Head of Literacy
at Little Hill Primary School, said: “Our school community were captivated by Sue's story sessions; we were engrossed and hanging on her every word! “Sue adapted her stories for each age phase and every member of Little Hill left the session with a smile on their face and a story in their heart. Huge thanks to Sue
l
Pupils at Little Hill Primary School enjoying storytelling sessions delivered by storyteller Sue Perks
for such an entertaining morning and huge thanks to David Wilson Homes for making this happen for our children.” Storyteller Sue Perks said: “It was such a wonderful day and a real joy and privilege to share my stories with such a lovely, happy school. “Thanks to everyone involved for the opportunity.” The children experienced first-hand how oral storytelling has allowed stories to survive and evolve over thousands of years, and across continents.
Rachael Harrison, Sales Director at David Wilson Homes East Midlands, said: “It was a real pleasure to be able to invite pupils from Little Hill Primary School to experience classic storytelling sessions. Events such as these give us the opportunity to make a difference in the communities in which we build, and provide local children with inspiration and opportunities to enhance key skills such as reading, writing, listening and creativity.”
David Wilson Homes is building a collection of high quality properties at Wigston Meadows off Newton Lane, including a variety of four bedroom homes, designed with growing families and working professionals in mind. The location of the development places is within easy reach of a number of Ofsted rated ‘Good’ and ‘Outstanding’ schools, as well as the convenient amenities offered by the town of Wigston.
REF Results Hammer Home Importance Of University & Business Collaboration THE RESULTS of the latest Research Excellence Framework (REF) identify ‘world-leading’ and ‘internationally excellent’ research across the UK. Indeed, 41% of submissions were judged to be world leading, and 43% as internationally excellent. Crucially, REF2021 – through the increased weighting for ‘impact’ – recognises the transformative effects of successful university-business collaborations. Commenting on the results of REF2021, Dr Joe Marshall, Chief Executive of the National Centre for Universities and Business (NCUB), said: “REF2021 shows that universities in all regions of the UK are working – frequently with businesses – to produce research. This research is internationally significant, and in many cases world-leading. The UK’s research base is a distinct national asset that attracts business, investment and talent. Today’s results reinforce this.” Marshall concluded: “It is vital that the integrity of the UK research base is protected. The
Hannah Receives Award For Supporting Home Educating Families Covid-19 pandemic has shown the importance of effective university-business collaboration and this has been illustrated in REF2021 case studies. “However, whilst today’s results should be celebrated, now is no time for complacency. The effects of the pandemic coupled with more recent economic instability, are limiting the capacity of both to work with one another. “Universities and business require the full support of Government to continue to deliver, independently and in partnership, research that improves our economy, health and society.”
A CITY OF WOLVERHAMPTON Council worker who supports home educating families has been presented with a national award. Elective Home Education and Travelling Children Support Officer Hannah Finch, from the Elective Home Education Team, received the Education Otherwise KIT award for excellence from Wolverhampton's outgoing Mayor Councillor Greg Brackenridge recently. The KIT award was developed as a quality mark to reflect the collective experiences of home educating families, with respect to the quality of support they have received, and recognises officers who have achieved high standards in their role. Awards are based on nominations from home educating families who have direct experience of their own education officer’s work practice.
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CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS
The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2022 - Page 15
FUNERAL OFRECRUITMENT MOMMA JEN EDUCATION,THE TRAINING AND
WEST MIDLANDS DIGITAL SKILLS PARTNERSHIP TALKS ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITIES DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION CAN BRING
T
l Clare Boden-Hatton, Director of Employment and Skills at WMCA, speaks to business leaders and digital skills practitioners at the event.
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he West Midlands Digital Skills Partnership, part of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) in collaboration with Birmingham Tech, hosted an event which brought together business leaders and digital skills practitioners to help SMEs understand how digital transformation can help them deliver at a much higher level. Taking place at iCentrum in Birmingham, it discussed the importance of digital skills, the role technology plays in business transformation and the option of speaking to companies and individuals who have benefitted from taking part in digital training themselves. As part of the event, Henrietta Brealey, CEO of
the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, delivered a keynote address. Henrietta commented: “Digital transformation represents such an amazing opportunity for our members, and I’m delighted to have delivered a keynote as part of this event.” Clare Boden-Hatton, Director of Employment and Skills at WMCA, added: “Digital skills are critical to increased productivity in our businesses. “Through our training providers we now have a fantastic service for businesses, providing them with new talent and training to improve the skills of current employees. "The support of our Digital Skills Partnership has been instrumental in helping us create an offer that is current and relevant.” A number of digital skills providers shared their thoughts during the event, including executives from Birmingham Metropolitan College, School of Code, University of Birmingham and the West Midlands Combined Universities. The event, run in collaboration with Birmingham Tech comes after last month’s West Midlands Tech Review which saw the region celebrate being named the fastest growing tech sector in the UK.
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Opportunities On Offer At Jobs Fair OVER 20 EMPLOYERS and training providers showcased a range of opportunities at a Jobs Fair organised by Jobchange and Adult Education Wolverhampton last month. The fair was aimed primarily at 16 to 24-year-olds who were able to find out about jobs, training and other opportunities with RAF Cosford, Balfour Beatty, West Midlands Ambulance Service, West Midlands Police, Gazebo Theatre, Juniper Training, the Princes Trust, RMF Training Group, Nova Training, Walsall College, Skills Training UK, The Apprenticeship Works, Wolves at Work 18-24, the City of Wolverhampton Council, the University of Wolverhampton, Wolverhampton Homes, Connexions, Dudley Council, Jobchange and Adult Education Wolverhampton. Head of Adult Education Wolverhampton Joanne Keatley said: “Helping people into work and training is a key priority for the council. “The jobs fair was an opportunity for young adults to find out about local vacancies with a variety of local employers and in a variety of roles, and about learning opportunities with Adult Education Wolverhampton which can help give you the skills to find or change your job.” The Jobs Fair was held at Adult Education Wolverhampton, Old Hall Street.
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WOMEN OF EXCELLENCE
CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS
RHIAN K. BHATOE FINDING THE ‘SIMPLY EFFECTIVE’ WAY W
ith a life-long love for writing and telling stories, Rhian K. Bhatoe is always trying to find a way to get her story out to a wide and varied audience. A prominent exponent of the ‘spoken word’ style of poetry, she is never afraid to speaks out loud to her readers in her unique style of poetry to highlight the questionable actions that take place in and around her life today. And, as a leading figure in the dramatic, theatre, and playwriting art genres, she writes and produces work that has been observed by audiences of all age groups, in various communities – of various ages and generations. A native of Birmingham, she has been writing poems from the very first time she was able to write and has been doing it non-stop ever
since – and loving every verse, line, and word she created. Using a unique and visual storytelling style in her poetry, Rhian makes it ‘simple’ for her readers to be immersed in her emotional and personal life experiences, whilst allowing them to self-reflect upon matters of the heart when dealing with love, life and loss. “It was as if a voice inside me said ‘What difference are you going to make in the world?’ My purpose was to get my words out there. Rhian’s lifetime of work can now be seen in her exciting new book – Simply Effective - highlighting a bold selection of modern poetry that’s relatable, poignant, funny, life-assuming and enjoyable throughout. With a passion for her community, family and friends, she uses love, humour, irony and pathos to capture the hearts of her readers as she offers
some sound advice as her writing connects to everyday situations. As she takes her readers on this inspirational journey through life, she provides a deeper insight into emotional understanding and ways of forward-thinking. She suggests a positive outlook in difficult situations and to open up ourselves in all aspects of our lives. “I was inspired by and performed with Dreadlock Alien,” she recalls, “who encouraged and cajoled me to perform – before I became the 1st Lady of the Artistic Soul collective (7 years) open-mic nights, before doing Mix Messages events at Berkley Lounge to encourage fellow-writers to perform.” She then went on to support Ethiopian World Federation, where her already-acknowledged skills were further-developed. With ‘Simply Effective’ already causing massive reverberations –
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following its recent launch, a second book is already being looked at. And with the ongoing support of her family and friends, Rhian K. Bhatoe will just continue to get her words out there as she make herself and work more available to the public. “Take heed of your words,” she says. “because they (words) are the most import ‘tool’ in your armoury. “It’s all about supporting each other.” Rhian’s poetry is poignant to society and can be easily visualised by her readers and she is now going through a raft of promotional programmes – with being part of this year’s Black History Month being the zenith of that. Simply Effective is available at major book stores, including Waterstones and WH Smith. For this Woman of exceptional Excellence, her life is just that!
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CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS
The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2022 - Page 17
MUSIC FASHION FILM GADGETS HOLIDAY EDUCATION HEALTH AND FITNESS
JUNE 2022
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JASON DERULO IS
Page 18 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2022
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R&B star Billy Ocean set for Solihull Summer Fest 2022
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he award-winning R&B singer-songwriter, Billy Ocean, is joining the incredible Sunday line-up at this year’s Solihull Summer Fest. Dubbed the biggest Black recording star that Britain has ever produced, Billy has sold more than 30 million records worldwide, achieving number one spot on pop charts in the UK, USA, Australia, Germany and Holland. The Trinidadian-English musician won a Grammy Award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance for Caribbean Queen (No More Love On The Run), and in 1987 was nominated for the BRIT Award for Best British Male Artist. His
other hits include ‘When The Going Gets Tough, the Tough Get Going’, ‘Love Really Hurts Without You’, ‘Suddenly’ and ‘Red Light Spells Danger’. In addition to Billy Ocean, the show on Sunday 24 July, features Belinda Carlisle, Kool & The Gang, Bad Manners, The Real Thing and Dr & The Medics. Saturday 23rd July 2022 will see Shaggy, Sister Sledge. Boyzlife, Shalamar, Lemar and back by popular demand, Artful Dodger returning to the main stage. The Solihull Summer Fest team are very proud of what is clearly their biggest line up to date are promising “the ultimate feel-good music festival”.
Throughout the weekend, the Second Stage will be hosted by The Soul Selection featuring the finest 70s & 80s Soul & Funk Anthems. The Soul Selection stage is headlined on the Saturday by Kenny Thomas and on Sunday by Trevor Nelson. Organiser, Ian Rogers, said: “After a very challenging couple of years, event life is in a much more positive situation and our team are completely focused and passionate about delivering the best-ever Solihull Summer Fest. "There are some huge names in our line up and I truly hope the Solihull borough support this increasingly popular festival on their doorstep."
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The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2022 - Page 19
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MORE EVENTS ANNOUNCED AS PART OF THE BIRMINGHAM 2022 FESTIVAL
B
irmingham 2022 Festival today announces more events as part of the six-month programme. Incorporating dance, live music, narration and an outdoor exhibition of original artworks and historic photographs, ME Dance Company’s Chain Stories takes you on a journey along the canals and across the sea to Ghana and Grenada, and back again. Exploring the struggles of those exploited in the Industrial Revolution’s push for cheaper labour and higher profit, it tells real life stories of people who literally came into contact with the chains that were forged in the Black Country and their fight for equality and freedom. Jambo Cinema - The 1980s Indian Living Room & Bollywood VHS Rental Shop Experience - is a multifaceted immersive exhibition emerging from a nostalgic time in artist Dawinder Bansal's childhood in Wolverhampton. The project is influenced by her time growing up as a young girl in her parents' electrical shop, Bansal Electrical, which also rented VHS Bollywood films. It draws upon her memories of
watching Bollywood films with her Sikh extended family, pays homage to her Kenyan roots, and explores the social history of South Asian home entertainment in 1980s Britain. The Birmingham 2022 Festival iteration will feature a new short film called Asian's Don't Kiss (but we know how to make babies) inspired by the classic film Cinema Paradiso (1988) and the humorous musings of Dawinder's life growing up as a young indian girl in the Midlands during the 1980s. Additionally, Dawinder will draw on her experiences of attending 'daytimers' which were daytime discos for young South Asians. This underground moment meant that teenage South Asians had a safe space to experience the nightlife they were forbidden to engage with due to cultural traditions and in some cases, safety from racial abuse. Nightclubs were taken over in the daytime, starting at midday and finished at 6pm. One Birmingham nightclub to hold these daytime gigs was The Dome. Dawinder will exhibit posters and material not seen by the public before
and it is her hope to make this an exhibition that represented the lived South Asian experience in Birmingham and beyond. All Roads Lead to Alexander takes you on a fully accessible, creative journey across the Commonwealth at the SAFS Windmill Community Centre, Smethwick, co-curated by children and young people with a range of special educational needs
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and disabilities from schools and colleges across Birmingham. Led by K’antu Ensemble, this showcase celebrates Birmingham's diverse communities through the joy of art and music making, empowering those with quieter voices from the SEND community to have their place in the spotlight. Throughout the day, there will be a range of music and dance performances, art exhibits and
foods available and performances will be relaxed, inclusive and participatory to cater to the needs of both participants and audience members living with disabilities in our communities. Imagine Bamboo Summit explores what extraordinary structures, stories and circus performances we can build, make and imagine with UK grown bamboo – widely held to be one
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of the most sustainable materials on the planet. This is an epic international adventure, bringing together artists, craftspeople, growers and communities from the UK, India, Ghana and Bali, alongside performers and engineers from NoFit State, the UK’s leading contemporary circus theatre company. Artist Beverley Bennett presents Nation’s Finest, Putting Down Roots and Birthing, an homage to the pioneering Blk Art Group. This multifaceted work will comprise of local gatherings, photographic public billboards and a short film displayed on digital live sites across Wolverhampton, Coventry and Birmingham. Wolverhampton is famously cited as holding the First National Convention of Black Art at Wolverhampton Polytechnic in 1982, organised by the Blk Art Group, who were all art students at that time. This historic event was a defiant demonstration of agency and ownership by young black creatives that continues to be heralded as an example of young people taking direct action. All confirmed Birmingham 2022 Festival events can be found online at birmingham2022.com/ festival where you can also join the mailing list to stay up to date as more events are announced. Birmingham 2022 Festival is generously supported by Arts Council England and The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
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Monjola shares the new single ‘Extrovert’
RISING ALT-R&B talent Monjola is one of the most exciting artists to be emerging from the burgeoning Dublin scene. Tracks such as ‘Smile’, ‘Where u at’ (with fellow rising star Aby Coulibaly) and ‘Know You’ have highlighted him as one to watch, his blend of stylish R&B innovation and his multifaceted vocal winning key admirers. Highlights of his support to date have included Radio 1Xtra, COLORS and Spotify’s New Music Friday. His reach is going global too, with airplay from KCRW in the States and triple j in Australia. Monjola now makes a fresh statement of his huge potential as he shares his new single ‘Extrovert’, his first release of 2022. ‘Extrovert’ is a song that shows Monjola’s diverse talents, as he switches his voice seemingly effortlessly from sweet, serene soul to rhymes that are as
laidback as the song’s chilledout summer heat. Written by Monjola with the help of his younger sister, Mope and produced by his brother Moyo, the song’s instrumentation also unites two contrasting worlds as sprinkles of soothing, jazzy guitar are underpinned by punchy R&B beats. Monjola says, “Extrovert is about not wanting to be alone but also feeling alone when you’re around people. Pushing people away cause you don’t wanna get hurt but at the same time also craving the company of the same people.” As ever, ‘Extrovert’ is released via the Dublin music scene’s best kept secret, Chamomile Records. The label is a tripleventure that was co-founded by Monjola, Moyo and Abi Coulibaly.
David Tennant and Catherine Tate to return to Doctor Who
D
avid Tennant and Catherine Tate are set to return to Doctor Who, with the pair currently filming for the sci-fi show's 60th anniversary to be celebrated in 2023. Tennant played the 10th Doctor on the time travel drama from 2005-2010, while Tate played companion Donna Noble. The news comes a week after the BBC announced that Sex Education star Ncuti Gatwa will be the next Doctor. Tennant and Tate's involvement means they will be reunited with returning Doctor Who head writer Russell T Davies, who was in
charge of the show when it was successfully revived in 2005 before leaving at the same time as Tennant. Their last episode together was broadcast in 2010. Tennant briefly returned before, joining then-Doctor, Matt Smith, for the 50th anniversary in 2013. It's not clear whether this return will be a similar one, with Tennant and Tate appearing alongside Gatwa. Davies has teased fans, saying: "Maybe this is a missing story. or a parallel world, or a dream, or a trick, or a flashback. The only thing I can confirm is that it's going to be spectacular, as two of our greatest stars reunite for the
battle of a lifetime." Tennant and Tate's 2008 series of Doctor Who is the most successful that the show has had since its revival in 2005, with an average audience of more than eight million viewers per episode. The 13-episode run also enjoyed a high degree of critical acclaim, and was nominated for best drama at that year's Bafta TV Awards. Jodie Whittaker's current incarnation will appear in one more special episode later this year, as part of a collection of programmes celebrating the BBC's centenary. The show will then return in 2023.
Gary Barlow Announces Residency At Wolverhampton Grand Theatre ACCLAIMED SINGER, songwriter, composer and producer, Gary Barlow has announced ‘A Different Stage’, his theatrical one man stage show telling his story, in his words will play at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre from 17 – 20 November 2022. Tickets are on sale exclusively to Friends of the Grand and members from 8am online on Thursday 12 May. Public sales open at 9:30am on Friday 13 May online at grandtheatre.co.uk. A Different Stage premiered at The Brindley, the award-winning theatre in Runcorn, Cheshire, in February to a rapturous reception from his delighted fans. He has since played to sell-out audiences in Salford, Liverpool and Edinburgh and has announced his
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West End debut at the London’s Duke of York’s Theatre in August. Today Gary confirmed dates in Wolverhampton. Created by Gary and his longtime friend and collaborator Tim Firth, A Different Stage sees Gary narrate the journey of his
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life alongside the music from his incredible discography. In a project unlike anything he’s ever done before, Gary will take the audience behind the curtain, with nothing off limits in this special performance.
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J
amie T announced details of his forthcoming new album 'The Theory of Whatever' and first single ‘The Old Style Raiders’, launched as Hottest Record In The World on Radio 1, alongside a video directed by Niall Trask. The singer songwriter’s fifth studio album will be released on July 29 on Polydor Records. It follows the 15-year anniversary celebrations of ‘Panic Prevention’, his seminal debut album which went platinum this year. The announcement included details of Jamie T’s first live show in 5 years, an intimate show at Subterania in London. South Londoner Jamie T – born Jamie Treays - had some 180 songs written in the five-and-halfyears since the release of 2016’s Trick. “I was struggling to find my direction with the record for a few years, really,” he admits. Bunkered in his East London home studio, he wrote and rewrote, playing all the guitar and keyboard parts himself. “I went home one day, and I found this track that I had recorded, pretty much fully finished,” he recalls, “and I was really upset, because I realised that I'd spent the last six months asking other people to tell me if something was good. Then I heard this track and I just immediately knew I'd kind of found my path.” That song is ‘The Old Style Raiders’, a lean, taut indie-rock anthem with a heads-thrownback chorus. “It's got hope in it,” he answers when asked what makes ‘The Old Style Raiders’ his album’s opening statement. “It's fighting to find something that means enough to you that you love. The fight to find that,
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NEW JAMIE T ALBUM ‘THE THEORY OF WHATEVER’ SET FOR RELEASE
and to carry on striving, to find something you love enough to hold on to. Rather than kid love or movie love or, gushy love or lust love, whatever you have when you're younger – it’s actually trying to fight for something that
means more than that. It's the struggle to find that.” Produced by Hugo White, the song was a pathfinder, a direction forward for a boundlessly productive artist who will freely admit that, for a minute there,
he lost his way creatively. From there, he drilled down and focused on 13 vital, pin-sharp, melodyrich, spikily provocative, visually vivid and narratively expansive tunes that make up ‘The Theory of Whatever’.
ENTERTAINMENT
Oliver Samuels Is Back - And Guilty With Explanation AFTER A three-year break, Oliver is back to celebrate 50 years in comedy in Patricks Browns hilarious and thoughtprovoking play ‘Guilty with Explanation.’ A side splitting laugh a minute blockbuster, when 65-year-old Papa imagines that his wife of 40 years is being unfaithful, he moves out of his matrimonial home and seeks refuge in the tenth floor apartment that his only daughter, Sophie, shares with her husband, Sean. Papa has never ever approved of any man Sophie dates, and Sean is no different. So despite the fact that Sean seems to always have a reasonable explanation for his questionable behaviour, Papa soon convinces himself that his son-in-law has a trailer-load of outside women, including Sophie’s BFF. Sophie knows that her daddy’s head ‘nuh good’ so she initially ignores his accusations against Sean. Nevertheless, Papa embarks on a one-man mission to ‘mash up’ his daughter’s marriage. A series of suspicious phone calls and strange coincidences eventually convince Sophie that Papa is right, and that she is being played by Sean. Sophie’s thirst for revenge leads her to concoct an elaborate
and potentially deadly plot to get even with Sean. But... Are Papa’s suspicions justified? Is Sean really guilty or are his explanations true? Does Sophie’s revenge end in murder? He does all he can to convince his daughter to end her childless marriage and the results are hilarious! For all these answers see Jamaica’s king of comedy, Oliver Samuels, in Patrick Brown’s hilarious and thoughtprovoking play Guilty With Explanation... Also stars Lekeisha Ellison and Tesfa Edwards, Guilty with Explanation will be touring the UK stopping at Birmingham's Alexander Theatre on Sunday July 24.
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FOOD
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Food & Fine Dining M
ulti-awardwinning KIBOU Japanese Kitchen & Bar has opened its fourth restaurant located High Street, in Solihull. Taking guests on a culinary and sensory journey to Japan, new KIBOU Solihull is a feast for all the senses. Exuding glamour, the design mixes opulent, lush fabrics and traditional Japanese block prints with exotic geisha murals and uber modern projector animations, all created by talented Gloucestershire illustrator, Martyna Sabadasz. Inside, the restaurant has been cleverly structured to create a range of intimate and chic drinking and dining areas. From the centrally located cocktail bar, the spacious restaurant featuring a range of table and booth seating, and the open sushi bar offering an enviable view of some of KIBOU’s most celebrated sushi being created by hand. With space available for both bookings and walk-ins, the 60-cover bar and restaurant also benefits from a further 25-cover Japaneseinspired terrace. The menu at KIBOU Solihull continues the theme of lavish attention to detail, with work of art Jo Moriawase mixed sushi sharing platters, delicately hand sliced to order sashimi, traditional hand-pressed nigiri and signature sharing sushi rolls, such as KIBOU’s famous volcano roll. Alongside these you’ll also find a range of other classic and contemporary Japanese dishes,
Solihull welcomes new award winning Japanese restaurant ‘Kibou’ Bottega Releases 300,000 Bees Into Its Vineyard In The Prosecco Hills On The Occasion Of World Bee Day
including steaming bowls of ramen, made with pork, chicken or vegan broth, crisp tempura, a selection of pillowy steamed bao buns and handmade spiced pork gyoza. Catering for all Japanese food lovers and those eager to try Japanese cuisine for the
first time, KIBOU’s diverse and contemporary menu also includes an extended vegan selection and an elegantly rich menu of Japanese-inspired desserts. To complement the restaurant offering, KIBOU will also feature a standalone cocktail
bar serving signature Japaneseinspired cocktails, no-and-low options, an ambitious selection of Japanese whisky, sake and umeshu, Japanese brewed beers and authentic high-balls.
ON THE OCCASION of 20 May, World Bee Day, the Bottega winery has decided to release 300,000 of these precious insects into the unspoilt nature of the Prosecco hills. It is a choice in the name of sustainability, which the Treviso-based company has always pursued at 360° in its business activities. Bees play a very important role in maintaining biodiversity. They are insects that facilitate pollination and consequently the formation of fruit, transporting pollen from one flower to another and contributing to the conservation of nature. Their presence is a
thermometer for measuring the healthiness of an area. The vineyard concerned is part of a plot of land owned by Bottega, located on the heights of Vittorio Veneto, in an area that is partly wooded and characterised by great scenic beauty. In this context, the bees have been freed from 6 different hives and have found a natural habitat fully compatible with their needs. Only Glera grapes, from which Prosecco originates, are cultivated here. On 20 May, World Bee Day, Bottega toasts to these insects and their important contribution to our health.
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After ‘Letting Go’ acclaimed author Kent Hung is back and is feeling ‘Entitled’ By Mandip Singh Taunque
I
t has been two years since The Phoenix Newspaper interviewed author Kent Hung about his life and publishing his debut novel ‘Letting Go’. Now he is back with a new novel ‘Entitled’ and The Phoenix caught up with him to ask him all about it.
Congratulations on your second novel ‘Entitled’, how excited are you now that it is released?
I feel blessed and excited at the same time. It has been an intriguing journey. As it has for many people the Covid lockdown period beginning in 2020 proved to be challenging so writing had kind of saved me from total isolation. I was able to use the time to create the ‘Entitled’ storylines and connect with the characters and their voices.
Just going back to when we last interviewed you for a moment, what was the reaction to your first novel, Letting Go?
Many readers contacted me and told me they were able to relate. In Letting Go I wanted to write about the struggle of processing
grief and learning to let go of selfinflicted pain and guilt. I want to raise awareness of this topic, especially for men, as men don’t often talk about their emotions and the main character Andrew is no exception. My aim of writing this novel was that I hoped that readers will see that it is OK to share with your friends, family and colleagues about grief and losses in life and that it is important to make allowances for others and in particular for yourself.
As a reader, we really connected with Andrew in your first book. Is there any link between the first and second novel?
Yes, I created a fictional character, Tom in my second novel, ‘Entitled’. Tom is the author of my first novel, Letting Go. It was due to Tom’s complete upbringing and personality that he was able to write Letting Go.
was released in May 2019 and the inspiration came to me in autumn of the same year. It took me a year to write to develop all the characters and storylines but much longer to rewrite it to be able to put souls and voices to my characters. In this book the main character is Tom and he was raised by this grandparents as his mother died after giving birth to him and his twin sister. Tom’s father was already married with a family of his own and they never accepted or included him. This was the source of Tom’s complicated personality which causes a life-long quest for validation and blaming others for his own failures and unhappiness. At one point Tom finds solace in writing. Through the journey of writing Tom gradually gains an understanding of others’ circumstances and points of view. His mother had come into
someone’s marriage, which resulted in Tom's birth. He is then able to see that actually he was the one who had been acting in an entitled way throughout his life. He starts to question what would it be like if he had acted differently or if the position was reversed?
It’s very deep and moving isn’t it?
For me personally, I discovered through writing this book that acceptance or validation from others does not mean anything unless one accepts oneself. It was really an “aha!” moment for me.
Will there be a third novel?
An idea came to me when I visited Orkney last year. It's about a family searching for long lost family members. The characters from my first two books will reappear. I want to explore how they are interlinked. It will be almost like a grand finale. I have sketched out most of
the characters and done a rough skeleton of the storylines, but my plan is to spend some time developing the storyline in my head before I continue writing.
On behalf of The Phoenix Newspaper, we wish you the very best for your new book!
As an avid reader myself, that is a very meta and a fresh and exciting way to approach your writing. Where did the inspiration come from and what can you tell us about ‘Entitled’?
My first novel “Letting Go”
Tributes Pour In For Iconic Goodfellas Actor Ray Liotta HOLLYWOOD DIRECTOR Martin Scorsese and actor Robert De Niro have led the tributes to Goodfellas star Ray Liotta, who died this week. Scorsese, who directed both in the 1990 gangster crime, called Liotta “a uniquely gifted and courageous performer.” The late actor is best known for his portrayal of mobster Henry Hill in the film, opposite De Niro and Joe Pesci. In a statement shared to US media, De Niro said: "I was very saddened to learn of Ray's passing. He is way too young to have left us." It was confirmed that Liotta died in his sleep in the Dominican Republic. The US star had been on location filming the movie Dangerous Waters,
his publicist Jennifer Allen said. His fiancée Jacy Nittolo was on location at the time of his death. Scorsese said: “I was absolutely shocked and devastated by the news and I would always be proud of our work together. "Playing Henry Hill in Goodfellas was a tall order, because the character had so many different facets, so many complicated layers, and Ray was in almost every scene of a long, tough shoot. He absolutely amazed me, and I'll always be proud of the work we did together on that picture. While best known for Goodfellas, Liotta also appeared in Field of Dreams. He got his big break playing ex-convict Ray Sinclair in 1986 black comedy Something Wild.
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Kent Hung was born in Taiwan, grew up in Sweden and is now settled in Scotland. ‘Entitled’ is out now and can be ordered from Amazon and directly from the Pegasus publishers’ website.
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Aspiring film director strikes gold at a trio of prestigious film festivals FOLLOWING THE SUCCESSFUL launch of a crowdfunding campaign to bring to life his latest film, Sam Turner, a Kidderminster-based writer and director has successfully won eight highly sought-after film awards across three of the greatest amateur film festivals in the UK. Point Five, a light-hearted short film that tackles a number of real life social issues with the ultimate message being that everyone should do their bit to help the environment, won Best Comedy, Best Story, the Diamond Award and the 5 Stars Award at the British International Amateur Film Festival. It also struck gold as the Best Comedy at The Kings Cross Film Awards and successfully nabbed Best Comedy, Best Director and Best Short Film at the Falcon International Film Festival. The short which features real British characters in relatable situations with the overall look and feel of a gritty urban drama also won judges' favourite at Pinewood Studios Lift-Off competition and will be screened in Los Angeles next year so
- it’s going to Hollywood! Sam Turner said: “I worked throughout the tricky covid period and multiple lockdowns to crowdfund and bring this film to life, so for it to have been nominated, let alone win this many amateur film awards is a huge testament to the hard work and dedication put into Point Five by myself and the whole team, not forgetting those that donated to our fundraising campaign making our dream a reality. Film is my greatest passion so I’m on a complete high following its recent accolades and feel truly inspired for what’s next to come, not only for Point Five and its debut in Hollywood but the next project on the horizon.” Still in the early stages of his career, Sam has already produced a number of other award-winning short films including ‘Hush Hush’ that premiered at the second annual Brave Blackbird Film Festival in Wolverhampton.
Jason Derulo summer with M ulti-platinum global superstar Jason Derulo is back with his new summer anthem, “Slidin’ (Ft. Kodak Black)”. Self-Produced by Jason Derulo, Shawn Charles, Jason Evigan, Lionel Crasta, Bluf & Smile High; the track is permeated with the energy and enthusiasm of a surefire smash. Bringing their Haitian influence, the Florida natives turn up the heat in their new single. Listen HERE. With Derulo’s knack for laying undeniably catchy melodies on top of fun, upbeat productions, the TikTok king is once again in full effect. Doing what he does best, Jason challenges his fans to his own version of the electric slide. This summer is almost certainly his for the taking.
“Slidin’ is right on time feeling exactly like a muchneeded summer vacation,” says Derulo. Hailed by Billboard as “The Crown King of TikTok” and named atop the influential “Future 25” in its 2021 “Future of Music” issue, Derulo is among TikTok’s biggest superstars, currently the 4th most followed male on the video-sharing platform with the 11th biggest account overall. Indeed, the multi-talented singer-songwriter, digital guru, and entrepreneur continues to see his already astronomical TikTok presence growing daily, now boasting more than 52.3M followers worldwide and over 1.2B likes, amassing more than 5M views with each and every post. Forward-thinking, genredefying, and massively creative, Derulo has staked his claim as
one of the most dynamic forces on the global pop landscape. Since breaking through with his 5x RIAA platinumcertified single, “Whatcha Say,” the award-winning singersongwriter has sold more than 200M records worldwide earned over 18.2B worldwide streams, and built an unstoppable social media following of over 117M followers across all platforms. Now at work on his anticipated fifth album - and full-length debut for Atlantic Records Derulo has delivered an ongoing series of smash singles that have drawn a stunning 500M+ views, including the irresistibly buoyant "Acapulco", the RIAA platinum-certified “Take You Dancing,” and Jawsh 685 x Jason Derulo’s 3x platinumcertified chart-topper, “Savage Love (Laxed – Siren Beat).” The latter track – and its
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Ncuti Gatwa Announced As The New Doctor Who STAR OF STAGE and screen Ncuti is best known for his critically acclaimed performance in Sex Education as the iconic Eric Effiong, for which he was awarded Best Actor Award at the Scottish BAFTAs in 2020 as well as numerous nominations, including Best Male Performance in a comedy programme at this year’s BAFTAs. Speaking of his new role, Rwandan-born Ncuti said: “There aren’t quite the words to describe how I’m feeling. A mix of deeply honoured, beyond excited and of course a little bit scared. “This role and show means so much to so many around the world, including myself, and each one of my incredibly talented predecessors has handled that unique responsibility and privilege with the utmost care. I will endeavour my utmost to do the same. "Russell T Davies is almost as iconic as the Doctor himself and being able to work with him is
a dream come true. His writing is dynamic, exciting, incredibly intelligent and fizzing with danger. An actor’s metaphorical playground. “The entire team has been so welcoming and truly give their hearts to the show. And so as much as it’s daunting, I’m aware I’m joining a really supportive family. Unlike the Doctor, I may only have one heart but I am giving it all to this show.” Russell T Davies, Showrunner, adds: “The future is here and it’s Ncuti! Sometimes talent walks through the door and it’s so bright and bold and brilliant, I just stand back in awe and thank my lucky stars. “Ncuti dazzled us, seized hold of the Doctor and owned those TARDIS keys in seconds. It’s an honour to work with him, and a hoot, I can’t wait to get started. I’m sure you’re dying to know more, but we’re rationing ourselves for now, with the wonderful Jodie’s epic finale yet to come. But I promise you, 2023
o heats up the Kodak Black official BTS remix – proved an unstoppable international sensation upon its 2020 arrival, peaking at #1 on Billboard’s “Hot 100” as well as atop charts in 16 additional countries around the world. A truly multi-dimensional creator, Derulo has also established himself as an actor and businessman, investing in enterprises like Catch L.A. and Rumble Boxing, becoming part-owner of Bedlam Vodka, launching an innovation-minded podcast, and developing a line of supplements and fitness products with the Najafi Group and BodyBuilding.com. What’s more, Derulo recently unveiled Jason Derulo’s UZO, an immersive new graphic novel from Z2 Comics based on a TikTok character created by the artist himself.
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will be spectacular!” Charlotte Moore, Chief Content Officer, said: “Ncuti has an incredible dynamism, he’s a striking and fearless young actor whose talent and energy will set the world alight and take Doctor Who on extraordinary adventures under Russell T Davies’ new era." Further details will be announced in due course.
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BBC Proms Series To Visit Birmingham FOR THE FIRST TIME ever, the BBC Proms is taking its successful chamber music series across the UK this summer – and Birmingham is one of the dates. Claire Barnett-Jones will give a song recital as part of the world’s largest classical music festival on Monday 29 August at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire’s Bradshaw Hall, part of Birmingham City University. The world class mezzosoprano, who is an alumna of Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, won the 2021 Dame Joan Sutherland Audience Prize at the BBC Cardiff Singer of the World, one of the most prestigious international singing competitions. She is now a sought-after voice
on both the operatic stage and the concert platform, with one critic writing that she “stole the stage at every movement” in English National Opera’s recent The Cunning Little Vixen. In her Proms at Bradshaw Hall lunchtime concert with pianist Simon Lepper, she includes the world premiere of a new work by Errollyn Wallen – a Royal Birmingham Conservatoire composition tutor – plus music by Proms featured composers Ethel Smyth and Ralph Vaughan Williams in his 150th anniversary year. She’ll also bring all her theatrical flair to a Shakespeare sketch by the late Joseph Horovitz.
BIRMINGHAM INDIAN FILM FESTIVAL RETURNS TO THE CITY T
he Birmingham Indian Film Festival (BIFF) has announced its programme including the world premiere of Dobaaraa directed by Anurag Kashyap and starring award winning actress Taapsee Pannu. The thriller is produced by Shobha Kapoor and Ektaa R Kapoor (Cult Movies, a new wing under Balaji Telefilms) and Sunir Kheterpal and Gaurav Bose (Athena). The opening night red carpet screening at MAC Birmingham will be attended by Anurag Kashyap followed by a Q&A. Supported by title sponsor Blue Orchid Hotels, Integrity International, the BFI (awarding National Lottery funding), Arts Council England and Birmingham City University, this year’s BIFF runs from 24 June – 5 July, screening at MAC Birmingham and new cinema partners Electric Birmingham, Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery and the city’s Royal Birmingham Conservatoire. It is part of London Indian Film Festival and Manchester Indian Film Festival and together it is the UK and Europe’s largest platform of South Asian (Indian, Bangladeshi, Pakistani, Sri Lankan) independent films. Festival Director Cary Rajinder Sawhney MBE says: “It’s wonderful to have director Anurag Kashyap return to the Festival with supernatural thriller Dobaaraa following his visit to the city in 2019. We have UK premiered a number of Anurag’s films over the last 12 years - including That Girl in Yellow Boots and Gangs of Wasseypur.” Female filmmakers are at the forefront of this year’s Festival including the European premiere of The Rapist starring Konkana Sen Sharma and Arjun Rampal.
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Rebana Liz John’s documentary Ladies Only explores feminist themes through observing the female only compartments of Mumbai’s hectic trains. Among other Midland premieres are Pan Nalin’s uplifting homage to celluloid Chhello Show and Anik Dutta’s Aparajito – a tribute to legendary director Satyajit Ray’s journey of making his first film, the cult classic ‘Pather Panchali’. An intimate look at modern day Calcutta, Once Upon A Time In Calcutta by Aditya Vikram Sengupta also features in the festival line-up. Under the Festival’s ‘Save the Planet’ strand, ecological and climate themes are explored in No Ground Beneath My Feet. The ‘Young Rebels’ strand includes The Very Fishy Trip and Girls For Future. Ahead of the Commonwealth Games the Festival will be screening Taangh with cinematography by Yugesh Walia, a Birmingham film maker who trained at the then Birmingham School of Photography. It tells the story of a daughter who embarks on a journey to find the champion her father was when he won the hockey gold for India at the 1948 London Olympics. Professor Rajinder Dudrah, Professor of Cultural Studies and Creative Industries, Birmingham City University commented: "It's exciting to see the varied programme for BIFF this year. Birmingham City University enjoys partnering with the festival that brings diverse stories to a wider audience in the city and beyond. BIFF is also supporting and helping to develop local and global creative industries in South Asia and the city region. BCU as a champion of the creative industries is a proud supporter of the festival."
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BrainBox - This Year’s Travel Essential
THE BRILLIANT, brainy card game that’s great for keeping children engaged and entertained. Plus it’s perfectly compact so ideal for traveling and holidays with the youngsters. The May half term is fast approaching and parents may be dreading flights abroad or long drives to the grandparents with their sprogs fighting in the backseat. Instead of turning the car around, keep them entertained with Brainbox. This popular 10 minute brain challenge game whilst fun, is also educational and the children won’t even notice that part. To play, you study a card for
10 seconds and then answer a question based on the roll of a dice. If the question is answered correctly you keep the card and the person with the most cards after 10 minutes is crowned the winner. The game tests your eye for detail, with all the answers on the card but with only 10 seconds to study and remember! You won’t get bored either as there is over 38,000 questions to answer. You can choose from a wide variety of topics to explore: Football, Maths, The World, Dinosaurs, Animals, Once Upon a Time, French and that famous wizard, Harry Potter! Suitable for those ages 7+ and great for 2 or more players.
Craig Revel Horwood taking the All Balls and Glitter Tour on the road
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BC1’s Strictly Come Dancing star, Craig Revel Horwood, is taking to the road in the Spring with his debut solo tour. Join Craig as he talks about his life from Australia to the West End to Strictly, reveals a wealth of backstage gossip with his trademark wit and candour, and gives a very special performance of some of the music which has been the soundtrack to his career. Best-known today for being a judge on BBC1’s Strictly Come Dancing, Craig's professional training began in his home country of Australia where he appeared in productions including West Side Story and La Cage Aux Folles. On arriving in Europe Craig joined the famous company at the Lido Du Paris as a dancer and then as principle singer at the Moulin Rouge, finding himself a year later in the UK tour of Cats. Since then, Craig appeared in the West End in Miss Saigon and was an original cast member of Crazy For You. He crossed over into choreography to huge success, being nominated for an Olivier Award for the West End productions of Spend Spend Spend and My One and Only.
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Since then he has had numerous credits as director/ choreographer across the world, ranging from the hugely successful UK tour of Sister Act to the movie Paddington 2. Craig continues to perform onstage, with ten years in pantomime and as Miss Hannigan in Annie in the west end and on tour. But he is of course best known as the judge on all 18 (soon to be 19!) series of Strictly Come Dancing and was also as Head Judge on Dancing with The Stars Australia. His many other TV credits range from discovering his ancestry in Who Do You Think You Are, winning BBC2’s Maestro at the Opera, runner up on Celebrity MasterChef, and most recently as ‘Knickerbockerglory’ on ITV’s The Masked Dancer and touring the UK with Bruno Tonioli in Craig and Bruno’s Great British Road Trips.
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ENTERTAINMENT MOTORS Motorpoint Marketing Executive All Set & Ready To Support The Work Of Derby County Community Trust In Kenya INTREPID MOTORPOINT Marketing Executive, Lucy Hadfield, is all set for a trip of a lifetime in the service of others when she joins the Derby County Community Trust team who are heading off to help with the refurbishment of a school in Kenya. Lucy, who works at Motorpoint’s UK Headquarters in Derby took up the original volunteer charity endeavour for Derby County Community Trust before the pandemic but like many others was unable to pursue her quest when Covid-19 hit. The Derby County Community Trust (DCCT) is Motorpoint’s Headquarters’ chosen charity for the past 4 years. As well as the many local Derby based community projects undertaken by DCCT, they also support 5 schools in Kenya as part of ‘Rams in Kenya’. DCCT has been using the power of Derby County Football Club to improve lives and communities of local people through Sport, Physical Activity, Health and Education for the past 20 years and have been delivering Rams in Kenya for the last 9 of those. Lucy along with 64 others is now set to help the pupils and teachers at The West End School in central Kenya by building new classrooms and sanitary blocks to accommodate young people from 3 to 16 years old.
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1955 MERCEDES-BENZ 300 SLR UHLENHAUT COUPÉ IS SOLD FOR €135,000,000
A
1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupé from 1955 has been sold at auction for a record price of €135,000,000 to a private collector. The car, which is one of two created in 1955, has always been regarded as one of the great jewels of motoring history, but few ever imagined that it would be offered for sale. One of just two prototypes built by the Mercedes-Benz racing department, the car is named after its creator and chief engineer, Rudolf Uhlenhaut, and is considered to be one of the finest examples of automotive engineering and design, often cited as being ‘the most beautiful car in the world’ by automotive experts and enthusiasts worldwide. The remarkable 300 SLR was based on the hugely successful W 196 R Grand Prix car which won two World Championships in the hands of Juan Manuel Fangio, but with its engine enlarged to 3.0 litres for sports car racing. The car was capable of 180 mph, making it one of the fastest road legal cars to have ever been created at the time. The sale of the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut
Coupé took place on May 5th at an auction held at the Mercedes Benz Museum in Stuttgart, with RM Sotheby’s working in close cooperation with Mercedes-Benz throughout the entire process to ensure the sale was concluded to the highest possible standard. Among the invitees were selected Mercedes customers and international collectors of cars and art who share the corporate values of MercedesBenz. The winning bid on the car was an incredible €135,000,000, making it the most valuable car ever sold and a price which exceeds the existing record by more the €90,000,000. In what felt like a surreal experience, the bidding opened at a price higher than the selling price of the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO sold by RM Sotheby’s in 2018, the car which previously ranked as the most valuable ever sold at auction. The 300 SLR now sits in the top ten most valuable items ever sold at auction. The proceeds will be used to establish a worldwide “MercedesBenz Fund” that will provide educational and research scholarships in the areas of environmental science and decarbonisation for young people.
Volkswagen and Mahindra sign Partnering Agreement Volkswagen and Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. (M&M) are exploring the use of MEB electric components for Mahindra’s new “Born Electric Platform”. Both parties announced today that they have signed a Partnering Agreement on 18th May to evaluate the scope of collaboration. Mahindra intends to equip its “Born Electric Platform” with MEB electric components such as electric motors, battery system components and battery cells. The Partnering Agreement evaluates the scope of collaboration – it indicates binding rules for the evaluation phase as well as the non-binding scope of supply. The binding supply agreement will be negotiated in a continued constructive and legally compliant way to conclude by the end of 2022.
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MOTORS
Passing On The Passion
LAMBORGHINI’S BEES BUSY SUPPORTING ENVIRONMENTAL BIO-MONITORING O n the occasion of World Bee Day on 20 May, the growing population of 600,000 Lamborghini bees is busy monitoring CO2 levels in the area surrounding the super sports car manufacturer’s Sant’Agata Bolognese headquarters. With 13 hives established in the Lamborghini Park apiary, around 120,000 of the bees forage within the local area and provide data for the company’s environmental bio-monitoring program, initiated in 2016 as part of its commitment to safeguarding the ecosystem. Through its partnership with the Audi Environmental Foundation, last year Lamborghini established new ‘technological’ beehives, featuring instrumentation to
measure the internal and external temperature, humidity and wind speed. They also contain electronic scales to weigh the hive, in order to remotely monitor whether the bees are collecting enough nectar and pollen and whether the family is growing in line with expectations. The two technology beehives have an integrated SIM that can transmit the measured data. One of the hives also has two cameras, one internal and one external, which film access to the hive and show if the bees are working normally. The second hive has an electronic bee counter and draws graphs that compare the measured data with the number of bees entering and exiting the
hive. This information helps researchers understand how climate change can affect the development of bee colonies, and enables timely action to be taken to sustain them in abnormal seasons. The long drought of 2021, for example, reduced the apiary’s annual production by around 100 kg of honey. Through their intensive collection of nectar, pollen and water, foraging bees are efficient and targeted foragers in an area of 3km radius around the hive, including not just the Lamborghini Park where the apiary is located, but also the surrounding countryside; the industrial area where the company is located; and the town of Sant’Agata
Bolognese. From the analyses of the hive matrices Automobili Lamborghini, in collaboration with entomologists and apiologists, can detect a wide range of pollutants: from pesticides used in agriculture and
on u r b a n and private green spaces, to heavy metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, dioxins and many others.
Local Schoolchildren 'Sign Off' New Car Park Provided By Rolls-Royce Motor Cars PUPILS FROM The March CE Primary School recently attended a special ceremony to mark the completion of their new school car park. The unveiling of new official signage was the final stage in the project, which includes a ‘kiss and drop-off area’ and 40 parking spaces, all funded by Rolls‑Royce Motor Cars. The car park forms an integral part of a wider parking improvement scheme carried out at The Home of RollsRoyce at Goodwood, which adjoins the school premises. During the construction work, pupils made site visits to inspect the works and learn about how the car park was designed and built, and the
different materials used. Beau and Jake, who took part in the early-stage inspections, were on hand again to sign off the works and give the project the final, all-important seal of approval.
They were joined by guests including their headteacher, Nicky Metcalfe, and Andrew Ball, Head of Corporate Relations at Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.
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THE FIRST global symposium on the challenge of attracting young people to the historic vehicle community was held in Marrakech, Morocco, on 14 May 2022. Supported by FIVA (the Fédération Internationale des Véhicules Anciens or international federation of historic vehicles), the event identified key steps to safeguard our automotive heritage for future generations. According to FIVA, as historic vehicles have grown older, so too has the average age of the people who care for them. Yet ‘passing on the passion’ to the next generation is a vital step if classic cars, motorcycles and utilitarian vehicles aren’t to disappear from our roads forever. Hosted by the Fédération Royale Marocaine des Véhicules d’Époque (FRMVE), the FIVA-supported event gave senior enthusiasts the chance to hear directly from young delegates, representing 10 nations – America, Japan, Slovenia, India, Romania, Brazil, France, Belgium, Turkey and, of course, Morocco. Interestingly, countries that are relative latecomers to the historic vehicle community often have the most forward-looking ideas when it comes to involving young people. Addressing the symposium in Marrakech, Tiddo Bresters, president of FIVA, stated, “I’m very happy to learn from the youth of today: it is for them to tell us the direction we need to take to ensure their interest in historic vehicles.”
Page 30 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2022
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DOCUMENTARY SET FOR BROADCAST TO MARK 40TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE WORLD-FAMOUS HAÇIENDA Chariots Of Fire Composer Vangelis Passes Away COMPOSER VANGELIS, who was known for his celebrated film themes for Chariots of Fire and Blade Runner, has died. The musician first tasted fame as the keyboardist in a band with singer Demis Roussos in the late 1960s. The Greek-born composer went on to be a groundbreaking electronic solo artist, as well as the composer of popular film soundtracks - winning an Oscar for the stirring theme to 1981's Chariots of Fire, which was followed by Blade Runner a year later. His other film credits included The Bounty, Francesco, Bitter Moon, 1492: Conquest of
Paradise and Alexander. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis tweeted: "Vangelis Papathanassiou is no longer with us. The world of music has lost the international (artist) Vangelis." Vangelis's Chariots of Fire theme famously accompanied shots of athletes running along the beach in St Andrews, Scotland, at the start of the film, which was set before the 1924 Olympics. It went to number one in the US, and later topped the UK's classical singles chart in 2012 after being performed by Mr Bean at the opening ceremony of the London Olympic Games. He was 79.
I
t’s 40 years since the opening of this legendary Manchester nightclub and music venue which unleashed the acid house and rave scene, brought us bands like New Order via Tony Wilson’s Factory Records and influenced many others including Oasis. The Haçienda was at the forefront of music and youth culture in the 80s and early 90s. An iconic venue, as one of the most famous music and night clubs in Britain, it was cemented into history in the 2002 film 24 Hour Party People. Now, the BBC is to screen a new one-off documentary about the venue In this new star-filled documentary, an array of key ‘players’ and club regulars will play their nostalgic parts in rare and unseen archive and firsthand testimonies highlighting their involvement during the Hacienda’s heyday – telling their stories of how the Haçienda
changed Britain’s musical landscape. Formerly a yacht warehouse and founded by Factory Records and New Order, from 1982 until 1997, the club influenced some of the most exciting and game-changing moments of 20th Century youth culture. The epicentre of a dynamic music, clubs and bands scene throughout the Eighties and Nineties and named ‘The Most Famous Club In The World’ by Newsweek Magazine, its influence extended across the globe and inspired a generation and artists including The Stone Roses, Happy Mondays, A Guy Called Gerald, The Chemical Brothers, Laurent Garnier and many more. Also celebrating the anniversary is a new book curated and compiled by a team headed up by Rebecca Hook and written by James Anderson, called ‘Haçienda Threads’. Also featured will be a wealth of rare and previously unpublished photographs of the club’s everyday ravers, local heroes and international music icons alike, whose collective explorations with fashion and style back in the day have since gone on to influence high profile fashion designers and luxury brands including Raf Simons, Kim Jones, Martine Rose, Versace and Balenciaga, among many others. A date for broadcast is still to be confirmed.
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Key To The City Begins In Birmingham 2022 Festival Open Auditions For Local Community Cast CHINA PLATE and Birmingham Hippodrome are searching for exciting local talent to take part in their new concert musical To The Streets! Over the weekend of 10 – 12 June, the creative team will hold open auditions at the Hippodrome, with a view to finding strong singers and dancers from the local community, particularly those that represent the wide diversity of Birmingham and the West Midlands. The community cast will perform alongside the principal cast at three parks in Birmingham, Coventry and Wolverhampton in August as part of the Birmingham 2022 Festival. To The Streets! is an uplifting new musical by Roy Williams and Tim Sutton inspired by the 1963 Bristol Bus Boycott, a pivotal moment in the UK’s civil rights history. To The Streets! follows the story of Paul Stephenson, an idealistic youth worker who takes to the streets to stand up for equality in Bristol where tensions are running high as the Omnibus Company refuse to employ Black or Asian drivers or conductors. Lorraine, a teenager newly arrived from Jamaica, joins the fight and in so doing, finds her voice and becomes part of a movement that changes history.
A FIRST LOOK AT WOULD YOU BET AGAINST US? AT BIRMINGHAM REP
B
irmingham Rep, the city’s only major producing theatre, and theatre company Told By An Idiot released production images for Would You Bet Against Us?. This world premiere production
June Gig Listings BIRMINGHAM O2 ACADEMY
June 01 NBA Leather Tour featuring Action Bronson & The Alchemist plus Earl Sweatshirt 02 KennyHoopla 03 Eighty Eight Miles 03 Roachford 06 Conan Gray 07 Run The Jewels 11 LP 14 TLC 17 MOTE 18 Leon Bridges 21 KALEO: Fight or Flight Tour 22 Khruangbin 24 The Wonder Stuff performing Never Loved Elvis 25 Devout… Depeche Mode Tribute 25 Waterparks 26 Phoebe Bridgers
O2 INSTITUTE
June 01 Hang Massive 02 Stand Atlantic 02 NOISY
02 Teddy Swims: Tough Love World Tour 03 BNXN (Buju) 04 Sonic Wave 2022 05 Dadi Freyr 06 Mayday Parade 10 The Mojo City Rebels 10 I Love Reggaeton UK Tour Birmingham 11 UK Fleetwood Mac 11 Emma Blackery 13 Tate McRae 15 Tems 16 Parquet Courts 16 Rome Streetz 17 PiL 18 Dom Malin 18 Sharon van Etten 19 Yung Gravy 25 Rare Americans 25 Gemini & Cancer Link Up Part 10
RESORTS WORLD ARENA
June 01 RuPaul's Drag Race Werq The World Tour 2022
marks 40 years since Aston Villa’s historic win at the European Cup and is now playing at The Rep until Sat 4 Jun. European Cup Winners Dennis Mortimer, Tony Morley and Kenny Swain will join the cast for a post-show Q&A supported by AV40.
It’s 1982. Aston Villa beat Bayern Munich 1–0 to win the European Cup. They remain one of only five English teams to win the biggest prize in club football – yet no one thought they stood a chance. Around the corner, 16-year-old Paul’s geography
13 Kings of Leon 17 Barry Manilow Special guest : Curtis Stigers 24-25 Mrs Brown’s Boys D’Live Show 26 Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons
exhibition 22-24 The Big Bang Fair 23-24 BVA Live 24-25 The Autism Show 24-26 The Creative Craft Show
UTILITA ARENA BIRMINGHAM
June 01 Ashanti + Trey Songz + Mario 03 The Script 09 The Alicia + Keys World Tour 11-12 Queen + Adam Lambert 14 Crowded House 15 Billie Eilish Happier Than Ever, The World Tour 20 Diana Ross 23 Alanis Morissette Celebrating 25 Years of Jagged Little Pill 25 Trampoline & Tumbling National Age Group Finals 2022
NEC
June 01-05 Circus Vegas 03-05 UK Games Expo 16-19 BBC Gardeners’ World Live 16-19 BBC Good Food Show Summer 18-19 The National Cycling Show 20-21 Higher education
TOWN HALL & SYMPHONY HALL
June 01 Gilbert O' Sullivan (TH) 01 Rumours of Fleetwood Mac 2022 (SH) 02 CBSO 2021/22: Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Concert (SH) 03 On Record: In Conversation with Xhosa Cole (SH) 04 WM Platinum Jubilee Anthem World Premiere (SH) 04 Gospel Revisited (TH) 05 National Open Youth Orchestra (TH) 06 Lunchtime Organ Concert with Thomas Trotter: By Royal Appointment (TH) 08 CBSO 2021/22 Handel's Messiah (SH) 08 Jimmy Webb with special guest Ashley Campbell (TH) 09 Concerto Budapest Symphony Orchestra (SH) 10 The High Kings (TH) 10 CBSO 2021/22 Rodgers & Hammerstein: Some Enchanted Evening (SH) 11 Keep Fit Association National
teacher tells him he would amount to absolutely nothing. Aston Villa were complete underdogs. So was Paul. Would You Bet Against Us? marks the 40th anniversary of an iconic event for Aston Villa, for Birmingham and for Paul. Created by The Rep and renowned storytellers Told by an Idiot and written by Brummie and life-time Aston Villa fan Paul Hunter, this is a hilarious, poignant, and uplifting show about challenging expectations and proving people wrong. On Wed 25 May audiences can join Told By An Idiot Artistic Director, Paul Hunter, for a Pub Quiz as he tests how claret and blue your shirts really are. Festival: The Magic of Dance (SH) 11 Shake That Thing! The Great British Swing Dance Show (TH) 12 Birmingham Philharmonic Orchestra: Mahler's Seventh Symphony (TH) 13 With a smile and a song: Music of Life Celebration Concert 2022 (TH) 13 Elvis Costello & the Imposters (SH) 15 Guardian Football Weekly Live (SH) 16 Macy Gray (SH) 17 Help! I Sexted My Boss Podcast: Live (TH) 17 Beyond the Bricks of Brum feat. BBC Symphony Orchestra, Black Voices, Casey Bailey, Sanity (SH)
FOR 6 WEEKS from 28 May anyone will be able to award the Key to the City to whomever they want, for whatever reason they want. Key holders will be able to explore private and intriguing places and spaces that they might not have happened on before, bringing a new perspective to the city. Keyholders will be able to access these locations until 7 August 2022. All 15,000 keys and their respective locks have been produced by security experts, Yale who are the official sponsor of Key to the City. Locations include special access to 103 Colmore Row; Northfield Community Garden; ACME Whistle Factory; Green Lane Masjid and Ikon Gallery. Creator of Key to the City Paul Ramírez Jonas said: “What if everyone, not just the chosen few, could be recognised with the Key to the City of Birmingham? What if anyone could decide who is deserving of the Freedom of the City? What if this key could open dozens of previously unexplored spaces around the city? And what if all those spaces together created a portrait of Birmingham?” Remounting it for Birmingham 2022 Festival will reveal to a whole new audience, in an entirely different city, that culture can still be a freely shared experience, whilst also highlighting the increasing privatisation of urban space.
18 Ronan Keating: All The Hits (SH) 18 In Conversation with the Sopranos (SH) 19 Gladys Knight (SH) 20 Lunchtime Organ Concert with Thomas Trotter; Summer Requests (TH) 20 ABC (SH) 21 Jeff Garlin (TH) 22-25 CBSO 2021/22 Season Finale: Mahler’s Resurrection (SH) 23 Lea Salonga (SH) 24 Electric Ladies : Toyah, Lene Lovich & Saffron of Republica - In support of Hazel O'Connor (TH) 24 Yes: Close to the Edge (SH) 28 George Benson in Concert: Special Guest Sunny War (SH)
l Queen and Adam Lambert rock the Utilita Arena on 11+12th June
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Page 32 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2022
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Jeff Dunham HAS Birmingham ROLLING IN THE AISLES
C
omedian/ventriloquist Jeff Dunham returned to Birmingham last month as part of his “Seriously?” tour, alongside his favourite pals including Peanut, Bubba J, Achmed and new friend URL (pronounced Earl). Starting off the show with a bit of a recap of the last 2 years, pandemics and lockdowns, Dunham explains that this was pretty much the first time since third grade that he’s not performed live for an extended period of time. There was a great section explaining how his two young boys have started to ask … those … kind of questions, which are never easy to answer, but for a comedian lead to some great punchlines that persisted throughout the show. It turned into a very wholesome and relaxed chat with the audience, with Jeff gauging how some of the more risqué jokes would go down
with the Birmingham crowd. Before too long though, Jeff brought out his pals, but with a caveat, especially in the wake of Will Smith’s now infamous slapping of Chris Rock following a joke about Jada, a warning that while some of his routines may not be politically correct, there will still be parts of the show that you'll find great, and to stick with him. This is where Dunham really shines. Whereas the jokes about his life were good, when he is freely adlibbing back and forth with his pals, there really isn't anything, or anyone, quite like it. There were even a few points where some new ad libs happened off the cuff, leaving Jeff giggling at his own jokes, while using the puppets to ridicule him as he regained composure. It was a very refreshing version of a performance, that while obviously rehearsed and fluid, allowed itself to
be taken wherever the conversation had ended up meandering to. Peanut (right) was the final act of the night, a character whose sole aim seems to be to annoy and aggravate Jeff in any way possible. An "Ask Peanut" section, taken from questions posed by fans in the crowd as they entered the arena that night was a particular highlight, from mispronunciations, to meeting Geoffery and his twins who were celebrating their birthday, and finally to being caught out by a fake name joke on his own stage. While Jeff Dunham certainly is not an act for everyone, he had Birmingham rolling in the aisles, although there were some jokes that didn't quite hit, due to being far more American-centred in their nature. All in all, for nearly 3 hours of entertainment, you were definitely left feeling like you'd got your moneys worth from the show.
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W
est Midlands Mayor Andy Street has headed off on a transatlantic trade mission to beat the drum for the region with North American investors, business leaders and tourist chiefs. With the Commonwealth Games less than 70 days away, the week-long trip to the USA and Canada will see the Mayor visit Chicago before travelling to Toronto where he will lead a West Midlands showcase event featuring the arrival in the city of the Queen’s Baton Relay. The trade mission has been organised as part of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games Business and Tourism Programme (BATP), the first accredited Commonwealth Games programme of its kind. The Mayor will be joined by a number of leading West Midlands business and tourism figures including Birmingham-born celebrity chef, Glynn Purnell. They will be aiming to offer up the perfect recipe for North American investors and companies looking to expand into the West Midlands or establish trade links. The Toronto showcase is expected to be the highlight of the mission with Michelin starred Glynn on hand to cook up dishes that capture the very best of West Midlands cuisine including one of his signature dishes - Monkfish Masala. The Mayor said: “A key part of my role as Mayor is to ‘bang the
MAYOR HEADING TO NORTH AMERICA ON BUSINESS AND TOURISM TRADE MISSION
l L-R Alex Claridge, Mayor Andy Street, Aktar Islam and Glynn Purnell promoting careers in hospitality at Opheem restaurant last September drum’ for our region and win the best possible investment for the people of the West Midlands. “That’s why we are visiting these important North American cities to offer up the ‘perfect recipe’ – with the help of our hometown celebrity chef Glynn Purnell – to prospective investors, with the added excitement of the
Queen’s Baton Relay on display at our Toronto showcase. We want to attract unparalleled levels of trade, investment and tourism into the West Midlands and we will be working hard during our time in these countries to do exactly that. With the West Midlands hosting the Commonwealth Games this summer, there is no better time
to be pitching our region to the world.”
The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2022 - Page 33
NEWS
Free Workshops Helping Young People Get Job Ready And Into Council Roles AS PART OF THE Wolves At Work 18-24 employment initiative City of Wolverhampton Council is helping unemployed young people get job ready through a series of free workshops. The council is running Employment Information Workshops for anyone aged 1824 interested in finding out what it is like to work at the council, the job opportunities available and the support on hand when applying for a role at the council. The workshops are aimed at young people applying for an apprenticeship or a role where the annual salary is £18,333 to £27,514 (Grades 2-5). The two-hour workshops at the Civic Centre, St Peter’s Square (WV1 1SH), include the following: • a tour of the council building (see what it's like inside) • helpful tips on applying for vacancies within the council • opportunity to hear from
Unlicensed Anti-Wrinkle Injections Put Customers At Risk Of Facial Disfigurement ENVIRONMENTAL health officers are asking people to remain vigilant after receiving reports of unlicensed anti-wrinkle injections being administered in cosmetic procedures across Wolverhampton and the wider Black Country. Botox, officially known as the botulinum toxin, is a prescriptiononly medicine, regulated by the Medicines and Healthcare Regulatory Agency (MHRA). Unlicensed treatments are illegal and can potentially put customers at risk of facial scarring and permanent disfigurement. There are currently only three brands of botulinum toxin which are licensed for use in the United Kingdom for cosmetic procedures, known as anti-wrinkle injections, namely Azzalure, Bocouture and Botox. However, some practitioners are known to offer cheaper, unregulated alternatives and they may not be being prescribed by medical professionals as the law dictates they must. A face-to-face pre-consultation should always take place with a prescriber of the Botox Botulinum product, where they will go through a customer’s medical history and suitability for the
treatment. People are being urged to use the following checklist when meeting with a practitioner: • Check the name of the product and whether it is licensed, and how and where it is made products such as Botulax, reNTox and Innotox are not authorised medicines for use in the UK • Check the practitioners’ qualifications, experience and whether they are trained to deliver aesthetics, such as injectables • Check what insurance cover the practitioner has • Check that the product vial
is unopened before use, and that the product is used solely on the customer it has been prescribed for The warning comes after the government announced their intention to introduce a licensing regime for non-surgical cosmetic procedures, such as Botox and fillers, in a bid to crack down on unregulated cosmetic procedures. The licensing scheme would aim to bring in consistent standards that people carrying out non-surgical cosmetic procedures must meet, as well as setting out hygiene and safety standards for premises.
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recruiting managers and what it is they are looking for • the chance to speak to and hear from other young people/adults working at the council • information on the opportunities available to employees • access further support through our Black Country Impact and Wolves At Work teams Sessions are monthly, with the next Employment Information Workshop on Friday, June 10, from 11am to 1pm.
Page 34 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2022
HEALTH AND WELLBEING
Voice For Our Black Elders
Does PRIDE come before POVERTY?
l Sherril Donaldson – NU:GEN CARE CIC
I
t was reported last year that more than 2 million pensioners (18%) live in poverty in the UK. These headline figures are worrying enough, but even more so to know our elders’ risk of poverty is nearly twice as high as for White pensioners. Why are people from Black and other minority ethnic groups at greater risk of lower income and poverty in later life? The latest figures show that 3 in 10 (30%) older people from Black ethnic groups are in poverty compared to 16% of White pensioners. It’s also reported that older black groups have lower average incomes, are more likely to receive means-tested benefits, and less likely to receive private pensions. For example, 44% of Black older households receive an occupational pension compared to 61% of White older households. And on average, Black older households receive £47 a week from occupational pensions compared to £169 for White older households. Older Black people are also more likely to be tenants in retirement – the Pensions Policy Institute found that only around half of Black people aged 65+ were homeowners in 2018, compared to around four out of five White people aged 65+. This means that, on average, they have lower levels of wealth than White older people and must pay rent throughout retirement. People’s financial position in later life is generally linked to their circumstances over the course of their lifetime. Private pension provision, in particular, is closely related to employment history – this includes the time someone has spent in paid work, their earnings levels, and also the
quality of their employer’s pension scheme. The Pensions Policy Institute’s work on ‘underpensioned’ groups has explored some of these differences – for example, finding that average full-time earnings among Black people aged 16-64 are around £1,400 a year lower than that of White people. And Government figures show that 69% of Black 16 to 64 year olds are in employment compared to 76% of all 16 to 64 year olds.
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Economic Secretary visits Solihull
A
s part of Mental Health Awareness Week, Economic Secretary John Glen MP visited Rethink in Solihull, to highlight support on offer for people suffering with problem debt. One year on from the launch of Breathing Space, nearly 60,000 people have benefited from the government’s scheme. This has provided individuals in problem debt with legal protection from creditor action while they seek debt advice – including through measures such as freezing interest payments and creditor enforcement for up to 60 days. More than 900 of those taking this support entered “Mental Health Crisis Breathing Spaces”, which extends the protections while they receive mental health crisis treatment. Economic Secretary to the Treasury, John Glen said: “Mental health is a challenge for us all – but
l Economic Secretary John Glen MP
these concerns can be exacerbated for people who are experiencing a mental health crisis and are in problem debt. “That’s why I launched the Breathing Space scheme one year ago and will shortly be consulting on proposals for a Statutory Debt Repayment Plan – to give people the confidence, support and clarity
they need to tackle problem debts. “The work Rethink Mental Illness are doing to support their clients is transforming lives. So I would urge anyone struggling with their mental health and in need of financial advice, to reach out to their nearest debt advice provider for support.” Mr Glen welcomed the work
What can we do?
These financial inequalities aren't new – in fact the annual figures on pensioner poverty have ALWAYS shown the disadvantages that older people from Black and other ethnic minority groups face. Once a person has retired it’s impossible to fix the situation, but, there are other things that can be done to alleviate the challenges. For those already retired, the most effective way of reducing poverty is to ensure that everyone claims the benefits that they are entitled to. Worryingly, we know that many people miss out on their rights – the latest estimates show around £2.2 billion of Pension Credit and Housing Benefit alone are unclaimed by pensioners every year in Great Britain. Unfortunately, these figures are not broken down by ethnicity, but it is likely that our elders are at least as likely, or more likely, to be missing out on vital support than the older population as a whole. It is important that take-up is increased in our community. Tackling poverty and the causes of poverty among the older Black population needs to be a priority so that everyone can look forward to a comfortable retirement. We also need to address the damage that pride plays in these circumstances. We should never be too proud to claim our entitlements and make our lives easier. Always, remember WE need to work together to identify our challenges and pressure points along with the existing organisations in a position to lead a movement to alleviate those challenges. So, I ask you to contact me with your thoughts on the way forward and topics for discussion in this column to ensure we change the landscape of care for our elders.
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Rethink are doing to support their clients and raise awareness of the Mental Health Crisis Breathing Space. He urged others in problem debt to seek advice from a mental health professional, debt advice provider, or using the tools offered by the Money and Pensions Service. The minister also thanked staff at Rethink for providing dedicated support to members of the local community suffering with mental health issues and problem debt. He discussed ways the government is tackling problem debt, including investing more than £90 million to support debt advice charities, providing £3.8 million to pilot the No-interest Loans Scheme, and accelerating the release of dormant assets funding. The latter of which has made £96 million immediately available to Fair4All Finance to support their work on financial inclusion.
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Musically Inspired Stay & Play Receives Festive Boost
A UNIQUE and innovative centre that helps people with additional needs has received a welcome financial boost from housebuilder Persimmon Homes. Perkisound, a musically inspired ‘Stay and Play’ recreation centre, successfully applied for the money through Persimmon’s Community Champions, a funding scheme that every month hands out two awards of up to £1,000. Susie Perkins, from Perkisound, said: “We support people with additional needs, their families, friends and carers. “We provide a safe, stimulating place to play and learn and aim to improve general health and wellbeing and reduce anxiety and loneliness. "The facilities are particularly suitable for people on the autistic spectrum, although we have beneficiaries with a wide range of disabilities including wheelchair uses.” The centre, set in rural north Warwickshire and the only one of its kind solely for people with additional needs, is currently fundraising for a Duo Metallophone, a specialised outdoor musical instrument to add to Perkisound’s growing music garden. Susie added: “The Duo Metallophone is particularly exciting and user friendly as its design makes it easier for individuals with a limited range of movement, or for players in wheelchairs to reach all the notes. "Eye contact can be difficult for people with autism who may only be able to process one sensory system at a time, so the Due Metallophone is designed to allow two people to interact and make music together without the need to look directly at each other. Sales director for Persimmon Homes Central, Sarah Preston, said: “We were really pleased to select Perkisound as a Community Champions winner. The last few months have seen quite an increase in the number of applications and I would urge any charity or good cause that was unsuccessful this month, to try again in the new year.”
The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2022 - Page 35
HEALTH AND WELLBEING
VOTING DOWN OF WORKFORCE AMENDMENT SHOWS DISREGARD FOR THE CURRENT HEALTH CRISIS
R
esponding to the Health and Care Bill, which received Royal Assent to become the Health and Care Act 2022, Dr Adrian Boyle, Vice President of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine, said: “While the overall Health and Care Bill is a step towards better, integrated care we are disheartened to see that the workforce amendment on the Bill – which was revised to compromise with the government - was voted down by Members of Parliament. “The current pressures on the Health Service are unsustainable and substantially driven by widespread workforce shortages across all grades and departments. These shortages are further exacerbated by an inability to retain existing staff facing burnout, distress, and moral injury, resulting in the loss of senior staff to early retirement and junior staff who quit the profession. “Having an independent review of health and social care workforce projections for
five-, ten- and 20-years’ time would have been the welcome starting point for a fully funded workforce plan – which appears
to have been scuppered. For Members of Parliament in the House of Commons to vote down this amendment
is a failure to the NHS and Social Care and a failure to the workforce that has been pushed to its limit for over two years.”
Acorns Partners With Law Firms In Free Will Writing Scheme To Help Fund Lifeline Care
ACORNS CHILDREN’S Hospice has joined forces with law firms across the region for a special scheme, aimed at raising vital funds towards the charity’s lifeline care and support. Throughout June, Acorns is partnering with local law firms from across the region to provide a free Will writing service as part of the Birmingham-based charity’s annual Make a Will Month. Whatever your circumstances, Acorns Legacy Officer Liz Betteridge, says now is the time to take control of your future by joining the Acorns scheme. Liz explained: “We understand that planning for your future in this way is never easy and the idea of writing a Will can seem very daunting. But writing a Will has so many benefits. Not only does your Will make sure your wishes are known after you’re gone, it is an important way to protect your loved ones. “It also helps to ensure all your belongings, big or small, go to the right place. You are never too young to write a Will, so don’t miss out on this opportunity to make your voice heard and get valuable peace of mind.” Those who sign up to Acorns Make a Will Month will also be invited to support local children and families by making a voluntary donation towards the charity’s vital children’s hospice care.
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Page 36 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2022
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How Eid al-Fitr Returned In Full PEOPLE TOOK the opportunity to gather together, on largescales, to celebre the end of Ramadan, with Eid al-Fitr returned in full, after a two-year break caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. In the UK, cities like Leicester, Birmingham, London and Manchester the shackles of restrictions were released, with Eid – falling on 1 or 2 May, depending on the sighting of the new crescent moon – saw openair events back in full flow. With events in Birmingham organised by the Green Lane Masjid and Community Centre (GLMCC), one of the largest celebrations in Europe saw thousands gathered at Birmingham's Small Heath Park for outdoor events, with celebrations also held at Edgbaston Stadium – the home of Warwickshire County Cricket Club – who welcomed about 2,000 people for prayers, for the first time, after registering through an app. Muslims from across Birmingham and further afield celebrated Eid in a day of family fun. Eid al-Adha is marked by special prayers and feasts and follows Eid al-Fitr which marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. In previous years, Eid events have attracted crowds of more than 140,000 to the park. The GLMCC said, after consulting with the city council and Public Health England, there were concerns over rising Covid-19 infection rates. Event organisers Abid Khan said: “I was pleased with the turnout, considering the weather. We've prayed in snow and we're prayed in torrential rain. So, whatever the weather, we had to get out here."
THOUSANDS FILL THE STREETS OF LEICESTER TO CELEBRATE A COLOURFUL VAISAKHI
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he Sikh festival of Vaisakhi was celebrated in Leicester as thousands turned up to commemorate one of the largest religious festivals in the county as a huge burst of colour and culture flooded the streets in a huge public procession. The annual event was louder and prouder than ever as the Sikh community came out in full force for the first time since the pandemic. After two years of toned down festivities, many expressed their happiness at being able to "properly" celebrate the event. Beginning at Guru Nanak Gurdwara in Holy Bones, St Nicholas Circle, the congregation travelled through the city during the three hour parade on a day dedicated to the formation of the Khalsa panth of warriors (the spiritual path of Sikh society) under Guru Gobind Singh in 1699. Crowds began gathering for the parade, which went through
High Street, Humberstone Gate, Charles Street, St George’s Way, Swain Street and St Peter's Road before ending at East Park Road, North Evington. The festival, which doubles as a spring harvest festival and is also, celebrated by Hindus and other faith communities, with many coming out for the first time in years to see the festivities with big smiles and colourful traditional Indian outfits. One of the many who was part of the day’s celebrations explained the important behind the event and said how happy she was to be able to attend saying: "I usually work on Sundays so I've not been able to come in recent years. But when my kids were all little we came every year and it's just so nice. “I'm so happy to be here and see everyone in congregation singing the religious hymns. It's lovely. It’s nice to be able to dress up and celebrate our wonderful and generous community."
l Reverend Eve Pitts
Church Service Marking 'A Celebration Of The Commonwealth Games 2022'
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ON BEHALF OF Reverend Eve Pitts, Holy Trinity Church, Birchfield, in Birmingham, will be hosting an event on Sunday 24th July 2022, commencing at 4pm. This event will be in the frame of a service. The theme of the service is “A Celebration of the Commonwealth Games 2022”, which is scheduled to commence on 28th July. The service will provide an excellent opportunity for an eclectic mix of people from the community, to embrace and
welcome the Commonwealth Games. Formal invitations have been sent to local churches, schools, and associations/organisations. Guest artists have been invited to participate in the service a saxophonist; a community choir; a baritone singer. Poetry will also feature in the service. Members of Holy Trinity Church’s congregation are invited to ‘share their stories’ of their experience, on their arrival in the UK during the 50s and 60s.
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This will be a wonderful afternoon of worship, celebration, entertainment and lively Caribbean music - not to mention reggae. Light refreshments will be served to complement the afternoon. Following the service, weather permitting, the West doors will be opened, leading to the beautiful church gardens, where people can meet and greet each other, over a glass of wine - continuing the celebrations.
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l Karine Jean-Pierre
Caribbean National Named As New White House Press Secretary MARTINIQUE-BORN Karine Jean-Pierre has been promoted to be Assistant to the President and White House Press Secretary. JeanPierre will step into the Press Secretary role replacing Jen Psaki, who will depart from the White House on May 13. President Joe Biden said: “Karine not only brings the experience, talent and integrity needed for this difficult job, but she will continue to lead the way in communicating about the work of the BidenHarris Administration on behalf of the American people. “Jill and I have known and respected Karine a long time and she will be a strong voice speaking for me and this Administration.” Jean-Pierre is currently the Principal Deputy Press Secretary and Deputy Assistant to the President.
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The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2022 - Page 37
OVERSEAS NEWS
WESTERN AIR MAKES B INAUGURAL NASSAU-FORT LAUDERDALE FLIGHTS
ahamian-owned and operated commercial airline, Western Air, took a long runway into the international friendly skies when it made its first flight between Nassau and Fort Lauderdale, Florida as another airline alternative for travellers. The 50-seater Embraer ERJ145 Jet took off from Lynden Pindling International Airport at 11 a.m. en route to Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International Airport, a first in the airline's almost 21year existence. Dr Kenneth Romer, Deputy Director General and Acting Director of Aviation, Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation (BMOTIA), lead officials and media welcoming the first passengers during the inaugural ceremony at Terminal 1, Concourse C. A special guest who also travelled in the inaugural flight was Anne-Marie Davis, wife of Prime Minister of The Bahamas the Honorable Philip Davis. The ceremony kicked off with the disembarkation of passengers on the inaugural flight, who were greeted in the terminal by the rhythmic sounds of Junkanoo, a Bahamian cultural celebration, complete with cowbells, pulsating beats of goatskin drums, and whistles. Western Air will operate daily jet service on its new international route into Fort Lauderdale providing an incentive of no change or cancellation fees, with all tickets being valid for up to six months. In the coming weeks, the air carrier is expected to expand service from Freeport on Grand Bahama Island into Fort Lauderdale as well. Headquartered at the San Andros International Airport on the island of Andros, Western Air was founded in 2001 by Captain and Flight Instructor Rex Rolle and his wife, Shandice Rolle. Their daughter Sherrexcia "Rexxy" Rolle is the Vice President of Operations.
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Page 38 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2022
Holiday and
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Travel
easyJet Celebrates Launch Of First Flights On New Route From Birmingham To Malaga
EASYJET HAS launched the first flights on its new route from Birmingham Airport to Malaga Airport, providing customers in the Midlands with a direct connection to one of Europe’s most popular beach destinations and more choices to explore Europe this summer. Flights to Malaga took off for the first time on Sunday 1 May and are now operating up to four times a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays throughout the summer. The airline also announced last week that it will be launching a brand new, twice-weekly service to Nantes in France. The new route comes following new summer services to Faro and Palma de Mallorca which are also set to take off for the first time this summer. easyJet is set to operate nearly four times more seats from Birmingham than it did in summer 2019, serving more destinations and providing more choice for customers in the Midlands. Its location on the coast of southern Spain means that Malaga also offers a range of beautiful beaches. But with more than 30 museums and a thriving art district – not to mention being the birthplace of Picasso – Malaga is also one of Andalucía’s most exciting cultural hubs. easyJet celebrates launch of first flights on new route from Birmingham to Malaga
WHAT'S NEW IN MELBOURNE AND VICTORIA A
ustralia's southeastern state of Victoria has recently eased further restrictions and is welcoming travellers from around the globe to experience their latest highlights - from new hotel openings, restaurants and bars in the heart of the capital city Melbourne and across the state, to the latest new attractions along the Great Ocean Road and beyond.
WILDLIFE WONDERS DUSK OR DAWN TOURS
As the sun sets over the hills of the Otways, get a peek at some of the more elusive nocturnal animals including potoroos, bandicoots, pademelons as they are waking up and start their active night of feeding and foraging. Visitors can spot them as they emerge for the evening on the new Dusk Discovery Wildlife Tour by Wildlife Wonders. On this small, intimate, 90-minute tour, their conservationist guide will give exclusive insights into the lives of some of the more elusive and rarely seen animals who call the Otways home whilst the setting sun will provide additional, stunning photo opportunities.
Wildlife Wonders' purpose is to engage the community with nature and to support wildlife conservation across the region. Many species that have been driven to extinction in other areas of Australia still survive in the habitats of the Otways, but without decisive action, these precious animals could vanish from the forests and heathlands forever. That is why all profits generated by Wildlife Wonders support the crucial work of the Conservation Ecology Centre, supporting critical research and vital on-ground works to tackle the most urgent conservation challenges facing the wildlife and habitats of the Otways Region along the Great Ocean Road.
OFF-GRID WITH A TOUCH OF LUXURY
For those looking for more off the beaten track and sustainable accommodation, look no further than Sky Pods, where guests can enjoy a relaxing yet luxury experience. Their new luxurious and architecturally designed selfcontained Sky Ships are also situated on the same 200-acre, offgrid wildlife refuge property on
the rugged coast of Cape Otway and come at a lower price point compared to the Sky Pods. This picturesque getaway takes in sweeping views of the Southern Ocean, as well as the surrounding coastal rainforest, with the Great Ocean Walk, Station Beach and Rainbow Falls all within walking distance.
UNLIMITED ICE-CREAM AND TINY HOMES
An additional gem along the Great Ocean Road is the Timboon Tiny Houses. The family behind Timboon's famed ice-creamery has opened three tiny homes next door. Named after ice-cream flavours, guests will be treated to little luxuries like silk pillows, USB chargers and locally made soaps as well as unlimited ice cream. The town of Timboon is also the starting point for the 12 Apostles Food Artisans Gourmet Trail, a trail where foodie lovers will be able to visit and explore local artisans and producers, including sampling amazing food and wine. It's also a midpoint for the Camperdown to Port Campbell Trail and boasts of full and thriving shopping precinct with cafes and shops for retail therapy.
VisitEngland Announces The Winners Of 2022 ROSE Award VISITENGLAND has revealed the 100 winners of this year's ROSE Award. The ROSE Awards recognise the accommodation providers across England who provides visitors with the warmest of welcomes. They celebrate the establishments, irrespective of their star rating, style or type of accommodation, where the owners, management and employees provide outstanding experiences for their customers. The awards are now in their sixth year after being paused in 2020 and 2021. VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes said: “It is great to see the ROSE Awards back as we celebrate and congratulate accommodation businesses across England excelling
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at customer service and creating stand-out experiences that keep visitors coming back time-aftertime. “The awards are also a wonderful showcase of the sheer scale of outstanding accommodation across England with visitors truly spoilt for choice. From stunning estates with camping on their doorstep to quintessentially English pubs with cosy rooms, from charming B&Bs and self-catering cottages in glorious locations to quirky beach huts in picture-perfect seaside towns, there is a stay to suit all tastes and requirements.” The ROSE Award winners were nominated by VisitEngland’s
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quality scheme assessors and selected from assessor comments and online feedback from overseas and domestic visitors. Recipients of the awards include all types of accommodation from Bed & Breakfasts (B&B)/guesthouses, self-catering and hotels to parks, campsites, glamping sites and hostels and cover a range of ratings from three to five stars, as well as accredited properties. ROSE Award recipients can advertise their accolade as long as they remain within the VisitEngland quality scheme. The VisitEngland ROSE Awards 2022 were presented at an afternoon tea event at the Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf & Spa.
CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS
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HOLIDAY AND TRAVEL
Communications Specialist Johnrose Departs CTO Following 20-Year Service
TRAVEL COUNSELLORS ACHIEVE ANOTHER RECORD-BREAKING MONTH
W
ith some 75 percent of Travel Counsellors’ customers feeling highly or fairly confident to book and travel, now that UK travel restrictions have been lifted, it is no surprise that the leading independent travel company is experiencing yet again, record-breaking sales, exceeding 2019 performance for yet another consecutive month! The findings from a recent Travel Counsellor customer survey also show that half of respondents are planning two or more holidays abroad this year; with a quarter of respondents willing and able to spend more
on their getaways. In April 2022, UK leisure sales performed at 136 percent compared to 2019 levels and corporate bookings – largely from SMEs - outperformed at 133 percent on 2019. Also, 137 Travel Counsellors (TCs) had their best ever sales month in April 2022 – with nine of them each amassing over £200,000 in bookings. Steve Byrne, CEO at Travel Counsellors, said: “We are delighted to see that the desire and demand for travel remains high – and that many of our TCs are continuing to experience their best ever months on record. “As confidence in travel continues to increase alongside
the further reduction in restrictions around the world – more holidaymakers and business travellers - largely SMEs - are once again booking their trips. It is a very exciting time for our business and it is abundantly clear that both our leisure and corporate customers want to travel and book with a trusted brand and personal travel advisor. “Our diligent Travel Counsellors continue to curate bespoke experiences that exceed their clients’ requirements – be it a return trip to their favourite destination, a bucket list holiday or those all-important business trips.”
Global Business Travel Made Its Comeback In March A NEW survey finds the number of companies that allow domestic travel rose by double digits as international travel jumps. The number of companies that allow domestic business travel rose in March, international travel is returning and travel bookings are on the increase. This according to the Global Business Travel Association’s April Business Travel Recovery survey of travel professionals, the 27th in a series of tracking polls since the pandemic began. The poll found 86 percent of companies surveyed not allow at least some non-essential domestic business travel, up from 73 percent in GBTA’s February poll. International travel made a big jump with 74 percent reporting their company now allows it, up 26 percentage points from February. In contrast, only one in five respondents (20 percent) report they have cancelled or suspended most or all domestic business travel, compared
AFTER APPROXIMATELY two decades of service, veteran communications specialist Johnson JohnRose has departed the intergovernmental Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) to pursue a new challenge. On his departure, he said: “It's been nothing short of a distinct honor to have been allowed an opportunity to make a contribution – small as it was in the scheme of things – to Caribbean development through the important tourism industry. “During my tenure I worked with some extraordinary partners and friends across the industry – including colleagues in the media – without whose support I couldn't have been successful. The memories are everlasting.” The CTO thanked JohnRose, unreservedly, for his commitment to advancing tourism in the region, and wished him every success in his new venture.
l Johnson JohnRose
LONDON INTERNATIONAL YOUTH SCIENCE FORUM
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THE BEST STEM SUMMER PROGRAMME! OUR KEYNOTE SPEAKER: Prof James Rothman Yale University, Nobel Prize Winner 2013 HRH The Princess Royal during the LIYSF Opening Ceremony
KEY HIGHLIGHTS 15 day STEM programme in the United Kingdom with cultural interaction Lectures and demonstrations from leading scientists held at Imperial College London
to 33 percent in February. International business travel continues to rebound, as less than half (45 percent) of companies surveyed said they have cancelled or suspended most or all international business trips. That’s a 27 point improvement since February’s poll, when 71 percent said they had axed most or all of their international trips. On average, the corporate travel professionals surveyed said that, compared to their company’s spending on
business travel in 2019, they expect by the end of 2022 their travel spend will be back to 59 percent of pre-pandemic levels, and will reach 79 percent by the end of 2023. The survey of 520 corporate travel professionals found inflation concerns are leading many companies to increase their business travel spend, with 41 percent reporting an increase in spending for air travel, 34 percent for hotel stays, 33 percent for car rentals and 26 percent for ride share and taxis.
Over 500 students attend from 70 different countries Scientific visits to world class laboratories and universities
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Page 40 - The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2022
PROPERTY AND REAL ESTATE
Innes England Launches Birmingham Business With New Director LEADING commercial property agent Innes England has expanded its Midlands operation with a move to a new base in Birmingham and a new head of office appointment. Chartered surveyor Adam Rock has been named the director of the venture, which signals a fresh direction for the company, expanding beyond its existing offices in Nottingham, Derby and Leicester. Adam, who is based at Cornwall Buildings in the heart of the thriving city, was previously with chartered surveyors Bruton Knowles for 12 years, and has a widespread knowledge of the commercial property landscape. He specialises in professional services ranging from valuations, rent reviews, lease renewals, and business rates. Innes England will lead with professional services before introducing other specialisms such as agency and building management.
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OXFORDSHIRE STUDENTS LEARN THE TRICKS OF THE TRADE WITH HOUSEBUILDER’S HAVE A GO DAY
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l David Wilson Homes' Josh Cooper with pupils of King Alfred's Academy
group of students have been given hands-on experience of housebuilding at a special event hosted by David Wilson Homes in Stanford in the Vale. 17 students from King Alfred’s Academy visited the developer’s River Meadow development on Ware Road to try their hand at a variety of practical skills, whilst learning the ins and outs of the construction industry from the experienced site team. Those attending the Have a Go Day, led by Site Manager James Futcher, were able to get a supervised taste of bricklaying and scaffolding, as well as receiving a tour of a view home. The students also saw a foundation digging demonstration and learnt about general site safety. The visit was organised as part of David Wilson Homes’ outreach within the communities in which it builds, involving local groups in its projects to provide educational and enjoyable opportunities on site. Rick Holroyd, Headteacher at King Alfred’s Academy, said: “I am delighted that we have forged such a strong and positive relationship with David Wilson Homes. This partnership is already
proving invaluable to us, providing unique opportunities for our students to visit working construction sites to learn and gain experience from industry professionals. “Our Construction course is a very important part of our Key Stage 4 offer to students, and attendance at the Have a Go Day was a wonderful opportunity for our students to gain an invaluable insight into so many aspects of a working construction site. Many thanks indeed to all at David Wilson Homes!” In addition to gaining an active experience with experts in the industry, the students were able to learn about the ins and outs of the construction industry at a vital part of their time at school; ahead of considering their own career paths. Rob Allen, Sales Director at David Wilson Homes Southern, said: “Hosting events such as these allow us to give students a real insight into the diversity of work on offer in the housebuilding industry. It’s an important time for the students as they look to plan their own careers ahead of university, apprenticeships or working life, and we’re so pleased to have been able to give them a taste of what construction involves.”
UKAA Appoints Brendan Geraghty As New CEO THE BOARD of UKAA (the UK Apartment Association), the trade organisation for the UK’s Build to Rent sector, has announced the appointment of Brendan Geraghty as its new CEO. Architect, Design and Development Strategist Geraghty comes to the role with a deep understanding of the Build to Rent sector, built on roles with Centred Architecture, Optim and Geraghty Taylor Architects. Active in the sector since 2011 and a recognised Build to Rent (BTR) thought leader, Brendan has actively championed the integration of consumer culture in BTR with a ‘brand before building’ approach. Combining strong conceptual and creative intelligence with a solid practical bias, Geraghty’s strategic, analytical approach allows ‘big picture’ thinking to be supported by appropriate levels of granular detail to create inspiring and deliverable solutions. Along with his cross-sector
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experience and 16 years in senior project and business roles, this positions him perfectly for taking the UKAA forward. Geraghty has already been associated with the UKAA for some time, having managed the content for the recently launched Best Practice Guide. Now, he will lead the organisation as it moves to shape the future of Build to Rent in the UK. New CEO Brendan will be spearheading the UKAA’s leadership through high quality knowledge and research, supporting the organisation to serve as the voice of the Build to Rent sector in the UK.
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The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2022 - Page 41
SU P VO PLE L. ME 15 NT
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The Phoenix Newspaper Countdown To The Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games Celebrating All Things Commonwealth Supplement Sponsored By
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UK And JA PMs Talk Trade, Security And Sustainability PRIME MINISTER Boris Johnson spoke to the Prime Minister of Jamaica to discuss our shared priorities on trade, security and sustainable development. The UK PM spoke to Jamaican Prime Minister, Andrew Holness, to discuss our shared priorities on trade, security and sustainable development. They were united in condemnation of Russia’s belligerent invasion of Ukraine and on the importance of defending sovereignty and democratic values. The Prime Minister highlighted that British International Investment is expanding in Caribbean, and the leaders agreed to explore greater cooperation on green and sustainable infrastructure projects. The leaders also welcomed the successful UK-Jamaica security partnership and committed to further strengthen our joint work on tackling organised and violent crime. They looked forward to meeting in person at the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting in June to drive forward collective action, as the world recovers from COVID-19 and deals with the fallout of the conflict in Ukraine.
BIRMINGHAM 2022 COMMONWEALTH GAMES MEDALS HAVE BEEN UNVEILED
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he Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games athlete’s medals have been unveiled. The gold, silver and bronze medals all feature a design that symbolises the road and canal network in the West Midlands, organisers said. They have been designed by three students from Birmingham School of Jewellery and made by a firm based in the city's Jewellery Quarter. The medals also incorporate textured elements to make them more accessible for athletes with a visual impairment. "We really thought about
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the athletes when designing the medals - the connection between athletes and the journey they go on to achieve their dream of standing on top of the podium," lead designer Amber Alys said. Dozens of students at the school entered a competition run by organisers and were whittled down to a final trio, who were combined in a team to create the medals, ribbons and boxes. Ms Alys, Francesca Wilcox and Catarina Rodrigues Caeiro had their design turned into a medal by the firm Toye, Kenning and Spencer. A total of 1,875 medals will be produced for the first, second and third
placed athletes in the Games, organisers said. "What the designers wanted to do is make something so that athletes who might have visual impairments could actually feel and touch them," project lead Raidene Carter said. Seventime Paralympic champion Hannah Cockroft will be aiming to compete in her first Commonwealth Games when they begin on 28 July with eight para-sports included among the events. "Now that I have seen how beautiful the medals are, I'm even more focused on winning one this summer," she said.
Get Set For Commonwealth Games In Wolverhampton At The First Round Of Engagement Sessions
1DU • Wednesday 18 May, 4pm – 7pm for residents at Wolverhampton Art Gallery (Georgian Room), Lichfield Street, Wolverhampton, WV1 1DU Councillor Steve Evans, Cabinet Member for City Environment and Climate Change, said: “The Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games will be here before we know it, and we’re really excited that the location of the men’s and women’s Cycling Time Trials will be in the City of Wolverhampton along with our partner Local Authorities across the West Midlands. More information about the event, including road closures, and resident parking can be found here: www.birmingham2022.com/ getset/wolverhampton.
RESIDENTS and businesses in Wolverhampton are encouraged to attend engagement sessions to find out more about the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games event happening in the city. On Thursday 4 August 2022, the City of Wolverhampton will proudly host the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games Cycling Time Trial with the race starting and finishing at our spectacular West Park. With not long to go until the start of the games, residents and local businesses are encouraged to attend the drop-in sessions to find out how they will be directly affected.
At the sessions, which will be led by Commonwealth Games representatives, you will find out more information on: • The full route and road closures on race day • Where you can watch the action from for free • City Centre Activities The drop-in sessions will take place on: • Tuesday 17 May, 11am – 5pm at Newhampton Arts Centre, Dunkley Street, Wolverhampton, WV1 4AN • Wednesday 18 May, 2pm – 4pm for businesses at Wolverhampton Art Gallery (Georgian Room), Lichfield Street, Wolverhampton, WV1
0121 339 5885
CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS
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Caribbean Monument Planned For National Memorial Arboretum PROPOSALS for a monument to honour Caribbean men and women who have served in Britain's armed forces have been submitted. The National Caribbean Monument Memorial is planned for Staffordshire's National Memorial Arboretum. The proposals have been drawn up by the National Caribbean Monument Charity. Its application said that the aim was to strengthen the bonds with the UK's Caribbean community, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said. The arboretum in Alrewas is home to more than 400 memorials, including those dedicated to the Fleet Air Arm, Quaker Service and Parachute Regiment. A statement submitted with the charity's application to Lichfield District Council said the country's Caribbean community had at times been overlooked, particularly in the armed forces. It is said that the monument will create a lasting legacy for present and future generations", the charity added. A fundraising page has also been started by the group to raise £500,000 to pay for the new memorial which will depict four servicemen and women.
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COUNCILLOR NAMED AS BATONBEARER FOR BIRMINGHAM 2022 QUEEN’S BATON RELAY RELAY
l Cllr Bhupinder Gakhal at the unveiling of the Saragarhi Monument city councillor who worked tirelessly to create Wo l v e r h a m p t o n ’s historic Saragarhi Monument has been announced as one of the community Batonbearers for the Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay. Councillor Bhupinder Gakhal, cabinet member for city assets and housing at City of Wolverhampton Council and ward member for Wednesfield South, was nominated for his work in the city. He will join other community Batonbearers from Wolverhampton including Parmi Dheensa, her son Callum, and Melvin Riley who were nominated for their activist work. Councillor Gakhal’s nomination focussed on his work on the city’s Saragahri Monument, the first statute of its kind in the UK to commemorate the bravery of 19th century Sikh soldiers. He worked closely with
Wednesfield’s Guru Nanak Gurdwara to commission the monument, created by Black Country sculptor Luke Perry. The statue, a bronze figure of a Sikh solider, stands on land in Well Lane, Wednesfield, close to the Gurdwara. Members of the congregation undertook a massive £100,000 fundraising programme for the monument, with donations made by the temple and the project supported by the community. City of Wolverhampton Council also contributed £35,000 towards the memorial after it agreed to transfer land to the Gurdwara on a 99-year lease. The memorial commemorates the Battle of Saragarhi, a conflict which took place on September 12, 1897. The conflict saw 21 soldiers from the 36th Sikh Regiment of the British Indian Army, along with a Muslim cook and handyman, fight to the death defending an outpost against thousands of Afghan tribesmen.
The nomination for Councillor Gakhal highlights how the statue has helped to unite different communities, backgrounds and religions, forming better communication and understanding between communities and helping those living in Wolverhampton to feel special. Councillor Gakhal said: “I’m absolutely ecstatic. It’s such an honour to be selected as one of the Queen’s Batonbearers for Wolverhampton. I’m so honoured and privileged to be given this opportunity. “I just want to thank the person, or persons who have nominated me. The Commonwealth Games will not only showcase Birmingham, but Wolverhampton as well. “And I want to thank everyone from the bottom of my heart for this opportunity.” The Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay will be coming to Wolverhampton this summer
during its final journey through England before the Commonwealth Games. The Queen’s Baton will be dramatically parachuted in by helicopter on Sunday, July 24, before inspirational Batonbearers take it on a tour of the city – giving them the chance to highlight stories of how they are striving for change in their community. The relay will begin at 8am in East Park with a parachute drop by The Wings Parachute Team. It will then be taken on a road relay tour of the city stopping off at a number of key locations including WV Active Aldersley before finishing with celebrations in Queen Square. Members of the public are encouraged to get involved with the arrival of the Baton, with further details of events and where to line the route to be announced over coming months on the Birmingham 2022 website.
Jamaica-Born Set To Seek A Seat In New York State Assembly
EVERLEY BROWN is making a bid for a seat in the New York State Assembly as he is set to run in Assembly District 29 encompassing the neighbourhoods of Laurelton, Rosedale, St Albans, Addisleigh Park, Hollis, Springfield Gardens and Jamaica. The sitting assembly person representing the district is Alicia Hyndham, who also has Caribbean roots. Should Brown wins, he would follow in the footstep of N. Nick Perry who sat in the Assembly for a number of years representing the 58th assembly district before he was recently appointed United States Ambassador to Jamaica. Following Perry’s departure, there is currently no Jamaica-born person in the State Assembly. With this being his second attempt for a state assembly seat, Brown has secured a spot on the ballot running as a Democrat in the district. He was born in Clarendon, Jamaica where he attended school, before graduating at Walgrove High School and what is now the University of Technology, Jamaica. He migrated to the United States in 1974, settling in Rosedale, Queens. In the US, he attended St. Francis College in Brooklyn and John Jay College of Criminal Justice. The real estate developer has centred his campaign on seeking to end foreclosure in his district. According to Brown, several people in the district have lost their homes because of foreclosure due to the COVID pandemic.
New Cycling Facilities Open At Cannock Chase Forest Ahead Of Birmingham 2022 F O R E S T R Y COMMISSION Chair, Sir William Worsley officially opened the impressive new cycling facilities at Forestry England Cannock Chase Forest. Showcased at the event was ‘Perry’s Trail’, an off-road trail for intermediate riders which is going to be used as the backbone of the course that will host the mountain bike competition at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games this summer. With only 69 days until the Games, Forestry England welcomed guests including the Lord Lieutenant for Staffordshire, Ian Dudson,
and Commonwealth Games Minister, Nigel Huddleston and local MPs Amanda Milling and Theo Clarke, to thank them for their support in developing this popular visitor destination’s cycling facilities. The funding that was secured from partners including Sport England, British Cycling and local councils, allowed Forestry England to develop the new blue-graded trail that will be used during the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, plus a first of its kind bike play trail called ‘Pedal and play’. This was designed in partnership with British Cycling and aims to inspire
the next generation of crosscountry mountain bikers. Children from Burton Manor School were invited to the event and received coaching lessons from British Cycling. This took place on the pedal and play which has already proved to be a very popular addition to the forest, teaching many children from the local community to master the pedals. Guests also had the opportunity to ride the new ‘Perry’s Trail’ and were led by a British Cycling Go Ride Coach. Secured as part of the project, the British Cycling coach will continue to work at Cannock
Chase Forest until 2023, to encourage as many people as possible from a range of backgrounds and skill level to take up, and to continue to develop participation in cycling. Sir William said: “It was fantastic to show all our partners today the impressive and hugely beneficial development of the cycling facilities at Cannock Chase Forest. "It is clear the new cycling centre really benefits the local community, by encouraging a healthy and active lifestyle whilst also connecting people with the fantastic forest environment.”
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Nollywood Actress, Chinedu Bernard, Mourned Following Her Sudden Death
Commonwealth Games Athletes' Village Gets Go-Ahead PLANS TO build a village to house some athletes competing at Birmingham's Commonwealth Games have been given final approval. The University of Warwick's central campus and Cryfield Village are set to host 1,900 of the competitors. Plans for extra tents and cabins at the site have been given final planning permission by Coventry City Council. Previous plans to build a bespoke athletes' village in Perry Barr, Birmingham were abandoned in 2020. The development also spans neighbouring Warwick District Council which had previously approved plans, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said. Warwick will be one of the campuses to house athletes when the Games take place from 28 July to 7 August. "We want to play our part in showcasing our home in the West Midlands as an incredible place to live, work and visit," said the university.
SIR LENNY HENRY MARKS ANNIVERSARY OF MEDIA DIVERSITY CENTRE
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l Sir Lenny Henry
irmingham City University’s Sir Lenny Henry Centre for Media Diversity is carrying out new research to provide evidence aimed at lobbying the UK Government to introduce tax breaks that will encourage film and TV companies to put diversity at the centre of new productions. Sir Lenny - broadcaster, activist, author, and Chancellor of Birmingham City University (BCU) - announced the news with guests at an event marking the second anniversary of the Centre. Developing research, data, and evidence around the positive impact of diversity tax breaks follows meetings between Sir Lenny and Downing Street, the Mayor of London, Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and the Treasury. Guests at the second anniversary event of the Centre, hosted at the University’s Parkside building, included Laurence Olivier award
winning actor Adrian Lester, Soul II Soul’s Jazzie B, senior executives from Channel 4, BBC, and ITV, and journalists, producers, editors and academics from across the UK. Speaking at the anniversary celebrations, Sir Lenny said: “What I have learnt is that we must turn protest into progress. We need to transform our complaints about the lack of diversity into real tangible results. “We’re doing great work, including consultancy for the Financial Times, Channel 4 and the BBC. This Centre has proved that change will happen – people are taking notice, broadcasters, newspapers and trade unions are all using our work to improve their policies and increase diversity.” The anniversary event, part of a wide-reaching events programme running up until November this year to celebrate the University’s 2025 Strategy, coincided with the arrival of
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the third edition of the Centre’s journal ‘Representology’ – a collaboration between industry professionals and media academics at BCU and Cardiff University. The latest issue features an interview between Sir Lenny and founder of the MOBOs Kanya King; an article by Nadine White, the UK’s first race correspondent based at The Independent; indepth research on Black and Asian representation in the entertainment unions by Dr Jack Newsinger and Riaz Meer, and Dr Jami Rogers on the industry's structural discrimination. Representology Editor K Biswas said: “Away from the glare of artificial 'culture wars', Representology continues to publish ground-breaking work on media and diversity from leading experts and some of the biggest names in British culture. "I'm proud that we're able to start new, challenging conversations about the role that press and broadcasting can play
in reflecting the richness of our society.” Since its inception almost two years ago, Birmingham City University has funded nine key research projects through its Sir Lenny Henry Centre for Media Diversity, including a collaboration with Cardiff University and work with Channel 4. The Centre has published important research findings, examining the portrayal of Black people in UK documentaries, the use of the term BAME in broadcast media, and how entertainment trade unions should provide better support for their members of colour. It carries out an array of independent activities including offering Practitioner Investigating Media Industry Diversity grants to industry professionals, while it aims to further expand its work to ensure the media better reflects UK society.
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THE ACTORS GUILD of Nigeria has confirmed the death of Nollywood actress Chinedu Bernard, who passed away on Friday in Enugu state in the south east of the country. The actress, who starred in films including Love Without Conscience, Just A Wish, Money Fever and Who Runs The City, died while in church, according to local media. Bernard, who was known as Choco in the industry, was seen as an up-andcoming actress. Her family has not yet released a statement. The actors’ guild president, Emeka Rollas, also posted on his Instagram that a second budding actor, named Chima Precious also died in Abuja.
CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS
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he Caribbean had a strong presence at Seatrade Cruise Global as regional tourism leaders, many of whom are newly appointed, connected with cruise line executives to discuss mutually beneficial strategies for the sustainable development of the cruise industry. Some highlights follow: • As cruising returns in full force, the conference served as a timely opportunity for lines and destinations to thoughtfully steer the discussions and iron out a range of issues – from health safety to sourcing Caribbean products and increasing onboard employment opportunities for Caribbean nationals • Barbados signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Royal Caribbean Group that will generate opportunities for high-quality employment in the local tourism industry. The agreement establishes a partnership between the Government of Barbados and Royal Caribbean, where the two entities will work together to create cruise-related job opportunities for Barbadians. • A similar agreement has been inked between Royal Caribbean and Antigua and Barbuda • Beginning next year the U.S. Virgin Islands will welcome additional Royal Caribbean cruise ship visitors. Crown Bay on St. Thomas will see a 70 percent increase in passengers, while the cruise line will nearly triple its passenger volume to the
The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2022 - Page 45
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THE CARIBBEAN “TALKS SHIP” AT SEATRADE
l PIC - Seatrade Talks: From left: Charlene Drakes of Carnival Corporation; Robert Morgenstern of HA Group | Princess Cruises, Holland America, Seabourn and P&O Australia; Petra Roach of the Grenada Tourism Authority; Marie McKenzie of Carnival Corporation; and Nikoyan Roberts of the Grenada Tourism Authority Frederiksted pier on “The Big Island” of St. Croix. • After a meeting with the Grenada Tourism Authority, Carnival Corporation’s Marie McKenzie, Vice President, Global
Ports and Caribbean Government Relations, thanked Grenadians for their support in bringing the industry and Carnival back to sailing. “It just continues to be a
destination that our guests enjoy,” she said. • The Caribbean cruise industry will convene next in San Juan, Puerto Rico, where the Florida-
Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) hosts its cruise conference this month. FCCA Member Lines represent more than 90 percent of global ocean cruising capacity.
More Events Announced As Part Of The Birmingham 2022 Festival MORE EVENTS have been announced for the Birmingham 2022 Festival. Incorporating dance, live music, narration and an outdoor exhibition of original artworks and historic photographs, ME Dance Company’s Chain Stories takes you on a journey along the canals and across the sea to Ghana and Grenada, and back again. It tells real life stories of people who literally came into contact with the chains that were forged in the Black Country and their fight for equality and freedom. Jambo Cinema - The 1980s Indian Living Room & Bollywood VHS Rental Shop Experience - is a multifaceted immersive exhibition emerging from a nostalgic time in artist Dawinder Bansal's childhood in Wolverhampton. The Birmingham 2022 Festival iteration will feature a new short film called Asian's Don't Kiss (but we know how to make babies) inspired by the classic film Cinema Paradiso (1988) and the humorous musings of Dawinder's life growing up as a young Indian girl in the Midlands during the 1980s.
Indian President Visits Jamaica And St Vincent And The Grenadines INDIA’S MINISTRY of External Affairs, President Ram Nath Kovind, paid a state visit to Jamaica and St Vincent and the Grenadines - the first-ever visit by an Indian head of state to these countries. Kovind was in Jamaica from May 15-18, during which he held “delegation-level talks” with his Jamaican counterpart, Governor General Sir Patrick Allen. He also met Prime Minister Andrew Holness and other dignitaries before addressing the joint sitting of the two Houses of Jamaican Parliament. “Jamaica and India have friendly relationships,” the statement said. “Jamaica is also one of the Girmitya countries with a 70,000-strong Indian Diaspora, who act as a living bridge with India,” “The visit came at a significant milestone; as 2022 is the 60th
anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations the two countries. Furthermore, India and Jamaica are celebrating 75th and 60th anniversary of their independence, respectively.” Kovind also visited St Vincent and the Grenadines, during which he held discussions with his Vincentian counterpart, Governor General Susan Dougan. He also met Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, as well as other dignitaries, before addressing the House of Assembly. “St Vincent and the Grenadines is an important partner of India,” the Indian External Affairs Ministry said. “India and St Vincent and the Grenadines were both non-permanent members of the UNSC (United Nations Security Council) in 2021 and shared good cooperation during this period."
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ON YOUR MARKS SUPPLEMENT - STRENGTH OF BIRMINGHAM
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lmost three years of work to redevelop the city’s Alexander Stadium has reached its most significant milestone yet – with the venue handed over by the city council to Birmingham 2022 for this summer’s Commonwealth Games. The council has overseen the £72million project to revamp the stadium ahead of the biggest event in the city’s history. Despite planning permission being obtained just before the wettest February in history (February 2020) and the work being delivered during the unprecedented circumstances of the coronavirus pandemic, the scheme has remained on budget and schedule. After the handover, Birmingham 2022 has now taken up tenancy and will finalise the temporary Games-time enhancements that will turn it into a 30,000seat venue for the Opening and Closing Ceremonies as well as all of the athletics and Para athletics competition. PostGames, the temporary overlay will be removed, leaving a legacy facility with just under 18,000 seats, acting as a focal point for sport, health, wellbeing and community activity in Perry Barr and the wider area of north west Birmingham, with a strong claim for the modernised facility to once again be declared the home of British athletics. Councillor Ian Ward, Leader of Birmingham City Council, said: “The new-look Alexander Stadium is absolutely stunning and it's testament to the vision and hard work of everyone involved in
ALEXANDER STADIUM HANDED OVER FOR FINAL LEG OF GAMES-TIME PREPARATIONS
this project that it has already been hailed as the best athletics stadium in the country. Birmingham has a venue to be truly proud of and we look forward to welcoming athletes, coaches and spectators for what I am confident will be an unforgettable Commonwealth Games.” Head of Sport and Physical Activity at Birmingham City Council, Dave Wagg, said: “Having been working in sport and leisure for the council for 25 years, the pride I feel in having overseen the transformation of this
facility is almost overwhelming. “Despite the massive challenges thrown at us over the last two years, none of which could have been imagined at the time Birmingham was named as host city for the Games, we have come through and delivered exactly what was required. That is due to the hard work and effort of many people engaged on the project – I offer my thanks to everyone who had a role on the scheme and cannot wait to see the Stadium on the international stage for Birmingham 2022.”
The Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay Completes Visit To The Caribbean THE BIRMINGHAM 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay arrives in St Vincent and the Grenadines today, marking the final destination in the Baton’s journey through the Caribbean. In recent weeks the Baton has visited Caribbean nations and territories, including Montserrat, Dominica, British Virgin Islands, St Kitts and Nevis, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, St Lucia, and St Vincent and the Grenadines. The Relay officially began its 294-day journey on 7 October and is currently visiting all 72 Commonwealth nations and territories, bringing cultures and communities together in the lead up to Birmingham 2022. Dominic Olliff, Director of Venues for Birmingham 2022, said: “The newly redeveloped Alexander Stadium looks fantastic. “We are delighted to take up tenancy for the next few months, as we make the final preparations for and then deliver the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games. As it will host the track and field programme, and our Opening and Closing Ceremonies, the Stadium is a hugely important venue for the Games, and it has been a joy to witness its incredible
transformation over the last couple of years.” As well as funding for the Stadium, the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) has also supported Birmingham 2022 with the development of new transport infrastructure, skills training to support local people into jobs with the Games and, through Transport for West Midlands, is coordinating road, rail, bus and tram networks to ensure the region keeps moving during this summer’s event.
When each Commonwealth Games Association hosts the Queen’s Baton, it organises an impressive schedule of events to celebrate their local heroes, untold stories, and sustainability efforts. In Montserrat, Titus Frederick, Captain of the Emerald Shamiole Masquerades dance troupe, joined other community ambassadors in carrying the Baton at the peak of St George’s Hill in Plymouth, the nation’s capital, which was abandoned in 1997 following the effects of volcanic activity. The masquerade dance and groups pay respect and tribute to the people of Montserrat’s ancestors. The Baton visited the Kalinago Territory in Dominica, which is a huge 3,700-acre district and home to an indigenous population. Lorenzo Sanford, Kalinago Chief, welcomed the Baton to the Kalingo Barana Autê village. In the karbet, a large hut where cultural and community activities are celebrated, members of the Kalinago population performed a dance to welcome to Baton. At A. O. Shirley Recreation Ground, a multi-use stadium in the capital of the British Virgin Islands, the Baton was welcomed with a performance of the traditional comfoo dance by children dressed in colourful skirts. During the Relay, Albert Stoutt and his two sons Zacchari and Andrew all represented their country and carried the Baton. The Stoutt family is prominent in the local fishing community in Carrot Bay and fish in a sustainable way to preserve their environment and ecosystem.
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eSkootr Championship announces Segi TV broadcast agreement in the USA and Canada COVERAGE of the inaugural eSkootr Championship (eSC) will be shown across the USA and in Canada on Segi TV throughout the 2022 season. Segi TV is a free on-demand streaming service available in over 100 million households in America, showcasing diverse and underrepresented content. Accessible through Android, iOS, Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Samsung Smart TV, and on the web, the platform will give viewers access to all the action from the first race in London on 13/14 May, as well as the five other races taking place in 2022, live and through the 90-minute highlight show following the race day. eSC has a big North American presence with a number of riders from America and Canada for Segi’s audience to get behind, as well as the season finale race which will take place in the US in October.
The Phoenix Newspaper - June 2022 - Page 47
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KAPPA RENEWS EXCLUSIVE APPAREL SPONSORSHIP DEAL WITH BBL AND WBBL
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he British Basketball League (BBL) and Women’s British Basketball League (WBBL) have both announced the renewal of its partnership with exclusive apparel sponsor Kappa. The worldwide sportswear company has continued their significant commitment to supporting the league, with this latest deal ensuring the BBL is Kappa’s longest standing UK based partner. Kappa, who has been partners since 2016, will once again supply each BBL and WBBL club with a wide range of sportswear; including playing uniforms, training kit, tracksuits and leisure wear for the players to wear in the upcoming campaign. British Basketball has seen monumental growth in recent years and following record attendances throughout the 202122 season, it is set to be yet another landmark year alongside the Italian sportswear brand. The
announcement comes fresh off the back of the conclusion of the 2021/2022 season last weekend which saw Leicester Riders crowned BBL Play Off Winners and London Lions crowned WBBL Play Off Winners in front of a record crowd at The O2
Arena, London. The BBL/WBBL’s Chief Operating Officer, Andy Webb, said: “We are thrilled to be continuing our long-standing partnership with Kappa and thank them for their continued support of both the BBL and WBBL.
"It has been an incredible year for the growth of British Basketball, what with the investment deal earlier this year and the record attendances at the play-off finals, the sport is thriving, and we look forward to working with Kappa again next season. We can’t wait to see our clubs once again kitted out in their apparel out on the court in what is such an exciting time for the sport.” National Team Sports Manager at Kappa, Dave Bandell, said: “When the BBL deal was up for tender we at Kappa didn't hesitate to pitch again for the apparel partnership. “This is now Kappa’s longest running sponsorship in the UK and emphasises our commitment as a brand to Basketball in the UK. We continue to provide quality kits and benchwear to the BBL and WBBL and wider basketball community and are grateful to be given a further opportunity to work within the upper reaches of basketball.”
Indian boxer Zareen wins gold at Women's World Championship
INDIA'S NIKHAT Zareen won the Women's World Boxing Championships in Turkey, becoming only the fifth Indian woman to be crowned world champion. The boxer beat Thailand's Jitpong Jutamas 5-0 in the flyweight division of the championship. This is India's first gold medal at the championship since Olympic boxer Mary Kom won here in 2018. Other Indian women to win include boxers Sarita Devi, Jenny RL and Lekha KC. After her win, an elated Zareen said: "It was always my dream to be a trend on Twitter and to achieve something for my country at the world level is the biggest motivation," she said. "Am I trending on Twitter?" she then asked at the press conference after her win. Zareen's name trended on Twitter as congratulations poured in from across the country. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the boxer had "made India proud".
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Indian boxer Zareen wins gold at Women's World Championship - Page 47
BIRMINGHAM 2022 WELL ON TRACK FOLLOWING PUBLIC TEST EVENTS SUCCESS B
irmingham 2022 passed a significant milestone on the journey towards the Commonwealth Games this summer, as it successfully delivered its first official public test events. Happening on the same day in two different parts of the region, the Müller Birmingham Diamond League event at Alexander Stadium, and the ‘Prep the Pool’ swimming event at the newly built Sandwell Aquatics Centre were both safely and successfully delivered. With a record crowd watching medal winning heroes like Dina Asher-Smith, Keely Hodgkinson, Laura Muir, Holly Bradshaw, Hannah Cockroft and David Weir, stewarding, and transport were put to the test as Perry Barr got ready ahead of the biggest multi-sport event to happen in the country since the London 2012 Olympic Games. At the newly built, Sandwell Aquatics Centre, over 300 junior swimmers took
their turn racing in the 10 lane 50m Commonwealth Games pool, as part of a competition day that replicated the opening day of aquatics at Games time. 200m World Champion Dina said: “Being British I wanted to come to Birmingham in this beautiful new stadium and put on a show.” 800m Wheelchair Men, Weir, added: “The stadium is amazing - it feels really new. It will bed in soon.” Isabelle Boffey, 800m Women, commented: “Being based in Birmingham makes it so exciting to have this Stadium here. To have the Commonwealth Games in the city is going to be incredible.” 110m Mens Hurdler, Omar McLeod, added: “It is a fast track for sure. I’m already looking forward to coming back for a fast time at the Games.” Tickets for the 11 days of showstopping Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games action - taking place from 28 July – 8 August 2022 - are still available!
Tickets For WWE Clash At The Castle At Principality Stadium In Cardiff WWE HAVE REVEALED the name of its first major stadium event to be held in the United Kingdom in more than 30 years as WWE Clash at The Castle, emanating from Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Wales, on Saturday, September 3, 2022. The name of the show was exclusively revealed by WWE Superstar Drew McIntyre during a WWE Live event at London’s O2 Arena. Tickets for WWE Clash at The Castle are on sale now. McIntyre, the first-ever British WWE Champion, said of the announcement: “The city of Cardiff is ready for WWE Clash at the Castle on September 3, and I know that everyone in Wales, across the UK and around the entire world is ready to make history with us, too. Get your tickets and be part of the magic. I can’t wait to hear just how loud Principality Stadium can get.”
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