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Singing the same song - Page 5
MAY 2014
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Birmingham Mela Information - Page 3
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Balloons of Positivity, Solidarity and Hope
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group of young people, children and adults, gathered in a Birmingham to take a stand for something positive in the City. ‘The Feast’ was a response to the ongoing ‘Trojan Horse’ investigation, with the idea of bringing young people together to formed friendships based on respect and honesty with people who they would not normally
mix with and showcase examples of the community cohesion that is already exists in Birmingham. It was a celebration of positivity in action. Formed predominately from the Christian and Muslim faiths, they gave out balloons with personal messages of hope, to show that prejudice and fear do not need to keep them apart.
Continued on Page 4
Prince is back and coming to Birmingham! - Page 17
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tephen Sutton is an inspirational teenager who has helped raise over £3 million for the Teenage Cancer Trust. Since his diagnosis in 2010, Stephen has never once stopped to feel sorry for himself. He has picked himself up, and been motivated to not let his illness own him, and to cram as much into the time he does have as is possible. Stephen shot to mainstream media attention on 21st April, when he posted a farewell to his followers on Facebook. “It’s a final thumbs up from me! I’ve done well to blag things as well as I have up till now, but unfortunately I think this is just one hurdle too far.” Said Stephen after being rushed to hospital with a collapsed lung.
Positivity
Comedian Jason Manford, whom Stephen had met previously through his bucket list and fundraising helped to share out Stephens Story, and the hashtag #stephensstory spread like wildfire, with many celebrities backing his cause. Within days, Stephen’s JustGiving hit its £1 million target, and then doubled it, before tripling it on April 28th. Since the 21st, Stephen literally coughed up a tumour which dramatically improved his health, and after consultation with his medical team, should be going in for an operation that just a week earlier was not possible due to how weak he was.
Continued on Page 3
Thumbs Up For Stephen!
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Response to Peter Clarke appointment
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tatement from Sir Albert Bore, Leader of Birmingham City Council regarding the appointment of Peter Clarke – Education Commissioner. “Yesterday I announced a comprehensive package of measures to strengthen the continuing commitment of this council to get to the bottom of the Trojan Horse allegations. Since the letter first came to light we have been working closely with the Department for Education in order to understand what might be
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t was diversity in action as Birmingham was at its most unified and benevolent on a glitzy night where ‘giving’ proved to be the buzz-word. Held at the aptly named Unity Club, singers, dancers, rappers and poets put on a show to raise much-needed money for two charities that have been at the forefront of improving the wellbeing of children. Organised by noted business man, Kishor Vadhia, the Charity Dinner was held in aid of Birmingham Children’s Hospital’s Cancer Unit and Acorns Children’s Hospice (Walsall), two charities which, as it proved on the night, affects us all more than you realise. The showcase compered by singer/rapper Sic’Nis, had performances by rock band, 3Story, singers, Jessica Rose, Adanté and Bee Nice plus dancer, Goldee Locks – all with their own relevant story to tell. It was the highlight of the night, in front of an audience which included Khalid Mahmood, Labour Member of Parliament for Birmingham Perry Barr, Rev. Larry Wright, of St. Georges Church, in Newtown and Tanya Fellows, from the Acorn’s Trust. This was the fourth year for the fundraiser and for Kishor it was another opportunity to support local charities. He made sure that the Birmingham Children’s Hospital’s Cancer Unit and Acorns Children’s Hospice (Walsall) went away with the maximum amount of money: “Whatever we raised,” he said, “will be added to.” Which, at the end of the night, certainly was...and then some! Money raised on the night saw the two charities share a total of £1,200.00
going on in Birmingham schools – including academies accountable to the DfE – and to reassure parents, staff and governors who are understandably anxious about the impact of the claims being made. “Therefore, at first sight, today’s announcement of an Independent Commissioner is a missed opportunity to strengthen our co-ordinated approach to addressing these very serious matters. Peter Clarke will need to give careful consideration to building a strong relationship
with us and, given his recent counter-terrorism responsibilities in London, ensure that his investigation does not undermine the confidence of our communities. “However, in the interests of the children and young people of the city, I will ensure that Peter Clarke and his team have every opportunity to add value to the work of our Chief Advisor, Ian Kershaw and the Review Group chaired by Stephen Rimmer.”
Tel: 020 7793 4594. Web: www.wateraid.org
The Phoenix – May 2014
Tel: 020 7012 6400 Web: www.savethechildren.org.uk
Tel: 0800 1111 Web: www.childline.org.uk
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Tel: 020 7840 7840 Web: www.macmillan.org.uk
Tel: 020 7242 0200 Web: www.cancerresearchuk.org
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Tel: 0121 212 9209 Web: www.oscarbirmingham.org.uk
Emergency Services Number: 999 Police non-emergency number: 101
l Sir Albert Bore
Benevolent Kishor a winner on night of charity
Pupil’s Letter Triggers Bishop’s Visit To School
l Some of the performers show off the £600.00 cheques as a result of the money raised
l Reverend Larry Wright (2nd left), Khalid Mahmood, Tanya Fellows, Kishor Vadhia and his brother Chetan
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letter from a year 6 pupil from a Birmingham primary school persuaded the city’s Bishop to clear his diary and join them for an end-of-term breakfast. The Rt. Revd David Urquhart was invited by Hakeem Mir to visit the Breakfast Club at St. Clement’s C. of E. Academy in Nechells where he was served hot cross buns. Hakeem (11) wrote: “Breakfast club is fun because it enables us to chat with our friends, read magazines and have a healthy and tasty breakfast. It is also good because it enables working parents to get to work on time without worrying.” During Lent, Bishop David had been supporting the End Hunger Fast initiative and visited projects that tackle food poverty and those that promote healthy eating.
He said: “When I received Hakeem’s invitation I was really pleased. I was so glad I could squeeze one more visit in before the end of Lent and spend some time visiting the club and meeting the young people in Nechells. It was a lovely letter and I am not surprised to learn Hakeem recently won a Shining Star award for writing. It is vital that schools offer services like the Breakfast Club that support families and ensure the spiritual, emotional and physical needs of the children are met as well as focussing on academic achievement.” St. Clement’s Academy Principal, Sue Simmons, said: “I was delighted that the Bishop visited us on the last day of term. Hakeem was thrilled that his letter had such a positive response from the Bishop.”
The Phoenix - May 2014
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NEWS
Birmingham Mela 2014
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he date for the UK’s biggest free Asian outdoor festival was announced when the Birmingham Mela 2014 was declared to take place on the first weekend in July. Celebrating South Asian culture at its finest, the showcase highlighting headline acts, music and other performing arts as it look to exceed last year’s inaugural event that attracted crowds of 125,000 over the weekend. Taking place on the weekend of
5th and 6th July, in Victoria Park, Smethwick, it will be a weekend extravaganza with a mix of music, stalls, sport, food, arts and crafts, community showcases and funfair for all the family. Now in its third year, award winning San2 will be just one of the star acts performing live at Birmingham Mela 2014 in a celebration of culture with a diverse programme including professional and community performers with music, dance and arts over three different stages.
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M AKE T H E BR I G H T CHOICE
l Cataloguing Archivist Karen Davie presents a cheque to Compton Hospice Community Fundraiser Sally Woods. Looking on are raffle winners Gordon and Lea Ann Hammond with baby Lorenzo Hammond, who won the large Beatties bear, and the winner of the small Beatties bear Jean Marsh.
Hospice boost from archives’ Beatties display Thumbs V Up For Stephen Continued from Front Page
Stephen sent the front page picture out as his health started to improve on April 28th, finishing by saying “In the meantime: to celebrate still being here after this crazy week, to celebrate this wonderful journey called life, and to celebrate being part of raising over £3,000,000 for Teenage Cancer Trust... Here’s a huge thumbs up from me!!!!”
Respect
Although this is good news, Stephens illness will eventually take his life well before his time, but if he continues as he has started, he will touch, and hopefully improve the lives of so many people through his fundraising and positive attitude. Well done Stephen, The Phoenix salutes you!
isitors to a recent display charting the history of a well-known Wolverhampton institution have helped raise funds for Compton Hospice. Dozens of people took part in a raffle to win a Beatties bear while they inspected an exhibition at Wolverhampton Archives and Local Studies which highlighted the development of the popular department store of the same name.
A cheque for £155 was handed over to the hospice at the same time as the raffle winners collected their cuddly prize. The display, which ended this week, included a selection of catalogued material relating to Beatties dating from the 1870s to the present day. Karen Davies, Cataloguing Archivist, said: “The display proved very popular with visitors and we’re delighted that we’ve been able to raise some much-needed funds for Compton Hospice. We also discovered some interesting information about the links that local people have with Beatties. One woman told us she used to work at Beatties and has fond memories of the staff restaurant, as that was where her husband proposed to her. And one visitor commented that if you split James Beattie in two, you’d find the word Wolverhampton written all the way through, which I think sums up such an important character in our city’s history rather nicely.” The exhibition was the latest in a series of temporary displays l Mum Lea Ann Hammond collects the delving into local history at Wolverhampton Archives & Local Beatties bear on behalf of baby Lorenzo Hammond, who is two months old. Studies.
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NEWS
The Phoenix – May 2014
Trojan Hope balloons promote uplifting message Continued from Front Page
There are broad generalisations being made about the Muslim community – especially in light of the Trojan Horse allegations and many Muslims have felt persecuted and ostracised. The Feast supports the investigations into allegations of inappropriate activities in leadership of any local schools, provided these are done sensitively and with due regard for the education needs of young people at such an important stage of the academic year.
Tim Fawssett, CEO of The Feast said, “We are proud that these young people are leading the way in building friendships across our cultural and faith differences, where prejudice and fear do not rule. We are very sad that some parts of our community are currently feeling attacked, so we have invited the young people to come to this event, to stand together as friends, to say to the world – we can overcome.”
Crooner organises charity concert in memory of grandfather
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Birmingham singer who founded the UK’s Perry Como Appreciation Society is organising a charity concert to raise funds for stroke victims. Matt Long, 25, decided to hold the event after his grandfather, Barry Clark, suffered a fatal stroke two years ago. The concert is being held on Friday May 16 for the Stroke Association at the Shirley Centre, Stratford Road, Solihull. Despite only being in his twenties Matt is highly influenced by crooners such as Frank Sinatra, Matt Monro, and most of all Perry Como of whom he is the UK’s leading authority. Matt said: “As a youngster I was influenced musically by my grandparents’ record collection so holding the concert seemed a fitting
tribute and an ideal way to raise money for a good cause.” Together with guest singer Dave Chance and accompanied by The Alan Warner Trio, Matt will be singing classics such as ‘Moon River’, ‘Catch a Falling Star’ and ‘From Russia With Love’ at the concert which is titled ‘A Musical Celebration of the Great Crooners.’ He added: “I hope the concert attracts a wide range of ages, especially young people who haven’t heard Perry’s laid-back songs before. It’s important to me to bring these wonderful songs to a new generation of followers.” The singer, who is from Shirley and who has only been singing professionally for a few months, has already raised approximately £1,500 for various charities through his performances.
The Phoenix - May 2014
British Icons challenge lack of diversity on TV
Punjab legend to make Royal history
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ne of April’s major highlights saw one of India’s greatest modern day legends in the UK as Satinder Sartaaj held his highly anticipated Royal UK Vaisakhi Tour press launch at Birmingham’s iconic Library of Birmingham. Seen as the biggest music extravaganza in the UK, the multi-talented singer, poet, lyricist and composer created a stir the likes of which, as his position in Punjabi music affords him, is unlikely to be seen for some time. In announcing his six-date Royal UK Vaisakhi Tour it was the final show which
already has Satinder’s position, in music generally, as one of the all-time greats. A tour that has taken in Glasgow, Leicester and Birmingham, when he performs at London’s Royal Albert Hall, on May 2, he will be only the second Punjabi artist to do so and it puts him up there with the likes of The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix, Elton John and Frank Sinatra, and other world-renowned musical legends who have performed there in the past. Multi-award winning Satinder Sartaaj has truly made his mark on world music with a reputation that will grow ever stronger still.
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wo of Britain’s leading figures have made their voices heard over the lack of Black and Ethnic Minorities in TV. Top comedian and stage actor, Lenny Henry, and veteran broadcaster Sir Trevor McDonald have vented their concerns warning against an “apartheid” system in the media. Speaking at the Ad Week Europe conference Sir Trevor stated that im-
provements have been made since he became the first Black reporter on ITN, back in the 1970s, but there is still a lack of Black representation in the media. Henry is advising the government on how to improve the numbers of Black and Minority Ethnics (BAME) in TV, theatre, radio and film. Following calls for laws and funding to address a lack of diversity in the TV industry, the former ITN front
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NEWS
man said:"Black representation has improved a lot. There are more Black and ethnic people on television, especially in the news field.” "I am not sure how long the television profession can go on if it does not truly represent the mix of the community. I don't see how you can have a kind of almost apartheid sort of division." Dudley-born Lenny issued his “call to arms” as he revealed that he has been having private talks with ministers and senior broadcasting figures to address the issue. He wants the public to join his campaign to put more ethnic minorities on the screen. “Before long there’ll be a campaign and we want everybody to get behind it,” said the 55-yearold. “Write letters to parliament, to government, write letters to your MP and say it’s time there was a change. Nothing happens without conflict and this is our time to stop moaning to ourselves and to take the argument public,” he continued. "How are you going to represent people nationally if the people who do your work are not exactly representative of the national picture? I think it's improved an enormous amount. I was the only black face on national television for a very long time. That's not the case anymore," said Sir Trevor.
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COMMUNITY NEWS
The Phoenix - May 2014
Pendeford hub opens for business
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he development of community hubs is helping Wolverhampton City Council protect its library and community services for future generations. That was the message from Councillor Elias Mattu, Wolverhampton City Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure and Com-
munities, as he officially opened the new Pendeford Community Hub. After welcoming its first customers, as one of a number of similar developments around the city, it was the latest to offer a range of services including a library and community centre from under one roof.
l Councillor Elias Mattu officially unveils the new Pendeford Community Hub
Councillor Mattu said: “I'm very pleased that the community hubs programme is now coming to fruition – and that we have been able to save and protect our libraries, community centres and other facilities through their development. Community hubs have been in the news for the last two or three years and it was a very controversial proposal at the beginning; I'm pleased to say that now people are seeing what the concept actually means – providing a number of services conveniently
from one location and helping to reduce their running costs at the same time – they are coming on board and appreciating what we have achieved.” Over the last few months, the former library and community centre building at Whitburn Close has undergone extensive modernisation work which has seen its windows and roof lights replaced, flooring repaired, kitchen refurbished and electrics upgraded. The new hub features a larger, reconfigured library including PCs available to the public and a self-service machine, a large refurbished hall which can be hired out for community events such as parties, a meeting room and
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ndian, Pakistani, Kurdish, Irish, African-Caribbean and Somali communities all live in the area surrounding the Stratford Road along which runs Route 6 from the city centre to Solihull. A Heritage Lottery Fund grant of £226,300 will enable South Asian arts organisation Sampad to undertake an 18-month project researching the history of the communities along the road between Sparkbrook and Hall Green. ‘My Route’ will start with a wide-ranging investigation covering how the various lifestyles, languages, religions, cuisines, economic activities and generations mesh together to create a vibrant, ethnically diverse city quarter. Volunteers, including young people, from among the various ethnic groups will be trained to interview residents to capture their stories about settling in the area, their customs and traditions. Meanwhile, the University of Birmingham and a group of young people from the Concord Youth Centre, Sparkbrook, will help to create an online interactive map detailing the mass of community heritage information gathered. Other results of the project will include a month-long outdoor exhibition trail with images and sound recordings installed outside specific buildings along Stratford Road; an
a display space for exhibitions. Councillor Mattu said: “I'm delighted to see a complete transformation of this building and I'm pleased to say that the finished product is excellent. l The new library is bright and airy. I'd like to nership. thank everyone I’d also like to thank the young who has been involved in the development of this fantastic people of St Paul’s Primary facility, including library users, School who sang brilliantly for members of Pendeford Commu- us to mark the official opening. I am looking forward to the ofnity Centre, community leaders and local organisations such as ficial opening of more of our new the Local Neighbourhood Part- community hubs over the coming weeks.”
No.6 a route to inspire history of migration in multicultural city indoor exhibition at a local venue; a book will be published containing historic facts, photographs and poems featuring the area’s communities; and local taxi drivers will be recruited to deliver a series of heritage ‘taxi tours’ around the area including an opportunity for visitors to sample local Balti cuisine in the area where Birmingham’s first Balti dish was created in 1977. The information collected during the project will be stored for future reference in Birmingham City Archives. Education packs will also be produced to enable local schools to utilise the area’s heritage information in classroom projects. Piali Ray OBE, Director of Sampad said: “We are delighted to have secured the support of
the Heritage Lottery Fund for the ‘My Route’ project, which will enable us to explore the changing history of the people, landscape and culture along Stratford Rd, from the 1940s to the present day. We’re looking forward to working closely with local communities in the area to create a legacy of digitally captured stories and published material that will remain as a valuable resource for the city.”
The Phoenix - May 2014
T Thousands attend Vaisakhi celebrations
he Council of Sikh Gurdwaras in Birmingham said it expected up to 100,000 people at this year’s Vaisakhi in Handsworth Park, but thousands more turned up to play their part in the annual celebrations, bringing vibrant colour and endless activities to this part of the UKs second city. It was the greatest number ever to attend the event, the largest of its type outside of India to celebrate the founding of the Khalsa or Sikh brotherhood by the religion's tenth guru, Gobind Singh. With the streets awash with
colour, many gathering in ceremonial dress as many hundreds more came out from their homes to line the route as two processions made their way from gurdwaras in the Jewellery Quarter and Smethwick, calling at other Sikh temples along the way, adding to the procession en route. Chairman of the Council of Sikh Gurdwaras in Birmingham, Pyara Singh Bhogal, said: "With the main message of this year's event being ‘improving inter-faith relations,’ we have to work together to make sure our younger generations have mutual respect for each other and understanding of other religions."
Connecting you to Jamaica for less
COMMUNITY NEWS
enge Levi, the unimposing man of the community has led an eventful life, helping everyone that he is able to, while fighting for what is right wherever he can. He has worked with many people and organisations over the years, including prominent members of the community such as Lloyd Blake, Chief Inspector Webb, Manpower, the Cadbury Trust and Tony Wilson. Denge has also tried to bring the culture of the Afro-Caribbean and African communities to the knowledge of everyone by putting on cultural exploration and art exhibitions, including artists, poets and performers from all corners of the world, in an attempt to educate people
Denge Levi
to remove ignorance between communities. Please keep emailing in your concerns, queries, stories and wishes to Denge, at denge. levi@thephoenixnewspaper. com. We will contact you in due course.
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or 43 years, Handsworth Day Care Centre has been at the centre of the community, caring for the younger members of our families, but recent times have not been kind to it. With cuts to Early Years funding across the board, the centre, based on St Peter’s Road, has found itself in financial difficulty as a result of the charity not having adequate governance and therefore the grant for 2013/2014 was reserved but had not been approved or disbursed. Since November, the centre has been on the verge of closing down, and sadly last Friday, the doors were closed. Thankfully though, there has been a movement to save the legacy of the Handsworth Day Care Centre, looking to renovate and update the existing buildings to rise from the ashes. Andrew Thompson explained that with the support of Birmingham Councillors including Councillor Waseem Zaffar and Councillor Karen Hamilton, the board aims to get the centre back up and running, and its doors open once again. Andrew says that by building a coalition of politicians, parents, community members and business people, the group plans to relaunch Handsworth Day Care Centre with a new, bigger vision. The tagline of “The Buck Starts Here” shows that the new board want to move people forward,
especially where the “Buck” hasn’t even started yet. By catching the youngsters at the earliest age they can, they hope to sow the seed that will enable them to move through the rest of their lives in a positive and productive way. Alongside the relaunch of the centre, Andrew hopes that services like the education of parents, dealing with community issues and to be a support and of assistance to the community will follow in suit which will hopefully all be possible with a grant that the board are currently in the process of applying for from the City Council. There have been some issues with the centre, with previous employees finding grievance with their treatment, and campaigns for change, mentioned Andrew. The Councillors are keen to meet with the community and all those involved, in a “Town Hall meeting” setting in the near future, to hear the views of all sides, and to hopefully unite everyone to move forward as one for the good of the centre. There is a call for volunteers to come forward to aid the centre in its time of need. Time, money and expertise are all required on a voluntary level, and would be gratefully received. Hopefully with the backing of the City Council, the centre will be saved, by the community, for the community.
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BUSINESS AND FINANCE
The Phoenix – May 2014
Winners List
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more in the
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Gifts and Cards
Health and Beauty
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Hammerson Celebrates Excellence At ‘We Love Retail’ Awards
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100 Icknield Port Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B16 0AA Silver Service ~ 7.00pm ~ 1.30am
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etailers across Hammerson’s shopping centre and retail parks portfolio were recognised at its annual ‘We Love Retail’ award ceremony, celebrating the best in customer service, including two stores at Birmingham’s Bullring. The centre’s Fuel Juice Bar was crowned the winner of the ‘Sustainability’ award, whilst the team at the Radley store were named the winners of the ‘Fashion Accessories’ award. Over 170 million shoppers visit Hammerson schemes in the UK each year and all the nominees underwent a grueling mystery shop process to test the customer
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service within each store. The winners were decided based on a combined score from the mystery shop and the stores’ sales performance. The award ceremony took place at the Marriott Hotel, London, and was hosted by musician and presenter Myleene Klass. Over 200 people attended, including staff from the nominated stores, and their Head Office retail colleagues, the Hammerson retail team and its shopping centre teams. The evening saw 18 winners in total recognised for exceptional customer service. Tim Walley, General Manager at Bullring, commented: “Customer service is extremely im-
John Lewis, WestQuay
Sustainability
John Lewis, Brent Cross & Fuel Juice Bars, Bullring
Best Newcomer
Kiehl’s, Brent Cross
Out of Town Retailer
Next, Cyfarthfa Retail Park
portant in retail and at Bullring we pride ourselves on offering the very best experience to our customers. It’s great to see Fuel Juice Bars and Radley getting the recognition they deserve for the service they provide for Bullring shoppers.” The event was sponsored by a number of organisations that work closely with Hammerson including 383 Project, Axon, Eversheds, Frank PR, FSP, Herbert Smith, Isobel, James Glancy Design, Javelin and Transform UK alongside charity partner The Retail Trust.
Youth MPs and Councillors make the grade
ore than 9,000 votes were cast in this year's Youth Elections – and the successful candidates can now be revealed. 27 young people stood for office, with the 2014-15 Youth MPs and Youth Councillors officially announced. Elected as Members of the Youth Parliament were Kashmire Hawker and Arnold Majecha, with Kelsey Edwards and Paul Kazadi named Deputy MPs. Meanwhile, 11 young people were elected as Youth Councillors: Cameron Peart, Ebony Haycock, Talisha McDonald, Jacob Bloomer, Tanya Kasinganeti, Alisha Chumbar, l New Members of the Youth Parliament Kashmire Hawker and Arnold Sana Malik, Adam Martin, Majecha are congratulated by Mayor of Wolverhampton Councillor Javaughn Spencer, Pamela Milkinder Jaspal and Councillor Val Gibson, Wolverhampton City Council’s Chibanguza and Madison Cabinet Member for Children and Families. Hughes. candidates and wish them every important the Youth Elections – Councillor Val Gibson, Wol- success as they take on impor- and the job that the Youth MPs verhampton City Council's tant roles as Youth Councillors and Youth Councillors carry Cabinet Member for Children and Youth MPs. out – are to the city’s young and Families, said: “I'd like to 9,084 votes were cast this people.” congratulate all the successful year, which goes to show how
The Phoenix - May 2014
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BUSINESS AND FINANCE
l Charlie, Daniel and Keiran promote their new business in the Wisemore Campus atrium at Walsall College
Filmmaking Students Shine Spotlight on Businesses
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our longstanding Walsall businesses have been showcased by a new video production company set up by three Walsall College entrepreneurs. Budding filmmakers Daniel Jukes, Charlie Brant and Keiran Bowers have launched a new business called Faceless Films through The Enterprise Hub being run by the College. The Level 3 Creative Media Production students were commissioned by the Black Country Chamber of Commerce to produce a short film for the recent Walsall Town Centre Business Awards which was played throughout the glittering ceremony to hundreds of employers and dignitaries. The 24-minute film, entitled ‘Four Walsall Businesses, Over 400 Years Experience,’ was based
on the heritage of Walsall and featured iron manufacturer Kirkpatrick Ltd, Enoch Evans LLP Solicitors, Jeffries Saddlery and Brady Bags and the 103-year-old Sands Fish business in the town’s market. Video-sharing website YouTube now features the video along with several others produced by Faceless Films including one highlighting the benefits of studying at the Black Country University Technical College which is sponsored by Walsall College. Daniel, 19, who lives in Walsall, said: “The opportunity to create a short film about four Walsall businesses came about and we worked with them individually to produce the whole package which was then broadcast on screens throughout the Walsall Town Centre Business Awards.
It was very well received by the audience and it was a proud moment seeing the skills we’ve learned on our course come to fruition.” “All three of us have a passion for filmmaking and it’s really exciting that Faceless Films has now got off the ground,” added Keiran, 22. The Enterprise Hub awarded the students a ‘Do It’ grant to launch Faceless Films after Walsall College secured a total of £15,000 from UnLtd in November for the social enterprise scheme. Jane De Weijer, Walsall College’s Community Development Officer, said: “The students received a grant as they had a clear idea of what direction their business was going in, a clear social agenda and they just needed that kick start to get it up and running.”
Legal & General Automatic Enrolment Solutions Tick All The Boxes
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he Department of Work and Pensions announced it will introduce stringent new regulations for Automatic Enrolment qualifying default defined contribution company pension schemes in April 2015 and beyond including lower charges, independent governance, a ban on adviser commission and action against unfair charging practices. Legal & General says its default workplace AE pensions offer employers the chance to implement these new standards now and ‘future proof’ their workplace pension. The DWP states1; “we need to
make sure that (those) pension savings are invested in value for money schemes that are well governed. Protecting savers is particularly important as automatic enrolment moves to smaller firms”. Legal & General is already implementing AE pensions that tick all the right boxes for these businesses... Small employers, who face automatic enrolment implementation this year, should take action now to register a workplace pension that meets the new DWP standards and avoid the need for more changes down the line. Jim Islam, Executive MD Corporate, Legal & General Assurance Society, says, “Legal &
l Jim Islam, Executive MD Corporate, Legal & General Assurance Society General already meets the DWP standards for 2015 and beyond. Employers now have a clear choice, implement an automatic enrolment pension that will future proof their DC company scheme or run the risk of being caught by the DWP review ‘tightening the vice’ in 2017.
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AZUZA STREET WITH ROLAND JOSEPH TETTEH true systems of thought or only a single absolute system. Some variants of coherence theory are claimed to describe the essential and intrinsic properties of formal systems in logic and mathematics. However, formal reasoners are content to contemplate axiomatically independent and sometimes mutually contradictory systems side by side, for example, the various alternative geometries. On the whole, coherence theories have been rejected for lacking justification in their application to other areas of truth, especially with respect to assertions about the natural world, empirical data in general, assertions about practical matters of psychology and society, especially when used without support from the other major theories of truth.
THE TRUTH
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ruth is that which conforms to, or is in accord with fact or reality, or fidelity to an original or to a standard or ideal. Truth is a concept which may seem definable at the onset, at best explainable, yet it is mired in ongoing debate and various theories which in essence seeks to explain the nature of truth and its relation to what may be termed objective reality, new propositions keep emerging thus clarifying some aspect of truth or perpetually suspending it in intellectual debate which reveals little about truth. Though various religious stance or tenets about truth is static, in that truth is viewed in a relativistic terms, it is a solid concept with absolute connotations The concept of truth has been analyzed on various platforms. But before we disengage it from post modernist fad, and intellectual quagmire, we have to examine critically some of the propositions concerning truth from intellectual and epistemological point of view. Much of the contemporary literature on truth takes as its starting point some ideas which were prominent in the early part of the 20th century. There were a number of views of truth under discussion at that time, the most significant for the contemporary literature being the correspondence, coherence, and pragmatist theories of truth. These theories all attempt to directly answer the nature question: what is the nature of truth? They take this question at face value: there are truths, and the question to be answered concerns their nature. In answering this question, each theory makes the notion of
truth part of a more thoroughgoing metaphysics or epistemology. Explaining the nature of truth becomes an application of some metaphysical system, and truth inherits significant metaphysical presuppositions along the way.
CORRESPONDENCE
The basic idea of the correspondence theory is that what we believe or say is true if it corresponds to the way things actually are—to the facts. Correspondence theories emphasize that true beliefs and true statements correspond to the actual state of affairs. This type of theory stresses a relationship between thoughts or statements on one hand, and things or objects on the other.
COHERENCE
For coherence theories in general, a belief is true if and only if it is part of a coherent system of beliefs. Truth requires a proper fit of elements within a whole system. Very often, though, coherence is taken to imply something more than simple logical consistency; often there is a demand that the propositions in a coherent system lend mutual inferential support to each other. So, for example, the completeness and comprehensiveness of the underlying set of concepts is a critical factor in judging the validity and usefulness of a coherent system. A pervasive tenet of coherence theories is the idea that truth is primarily a property of whole systems of propositions, and can be ascribed to individual propositions only according to their coherence with the whole. Among the assortment of perspectives commonly regarded as coherence theory, theorists differ on the question of whether coherence entails many possible
CONSENSUS
Consensus theory holds that truth is whatever is agreed upon, or in some versions, might come to be agreed upon, by some specified group. Such a group might include all human beings, or a subset thereof consisting of more than one person.
PRAGMATIC THEORY OF TRUTH
Peirce defines truth as follows: "Truth is that concordance of an abstract statement with the ideal limit towards which endless investigation would tend to bring scientific belief, which concord-
ance the abstract statement may possess by virtue of the confession of its inaccuracy and onesidedness, and this confession is an essential ingredient of truth." This statement stresses Peirce's view that ideas of approximation, incompleteness, and partiality, what he describes elsewhere as fallibilism and "reference to the future", are essential to a proper conception of truth. Although Peirce uses words like concordance and correspondence to describe one aspect of the pragmatic sign relation, he is also quite explicit in saying that definitions of truth based on mere correspondence are no more than nominal definitions, which he accords a lower status than real definitions. William James's version of pragmatic theory, while complex, is often summarized by his statement that "the 'true' is only the expedient in our way of thinking, just as the 'right' is only the expedient in our way of behaving." By this, James meant that truth is a quality, the value of which is confirmed by its effectiveness when applying concepts to practice (thus, "pragmatic"). John Dewey, less broadly than James but more broadly than Peirce, held that inquiry, whether scientific, technical, sociological, philosophical or cultural, is selfcorrective over time if openly submitted for testing by a community of inquirers in order to clarify, justify, refine and/or refute proposed truths.
THE RELIGIOUS APPROACH - CHRISTIANITY
God is ultimate truth. In the Bible, God describes himself as being real, true, and alive rather than being unreal, false, and dead like the gods conjured through counterfeit human idolatry. According to historic Christianity, God is the ultimate and unchanging truth and the necessary real being that stands behind the created order. He is also the source and ground of all truth. All truth is God’s truth, and he has revealed it to humankind. God is the metaphysical foundation of all truth. Truth is logically coherent and corresponds to reality; the same is true of God’s
thoughts and knowledge. Truth is objective, knowable, and applicable. The truth God revealed through both general and special revelation (creation and Scripture) is objective in nature. It is the way things really are – independent of human subjective experience and man-made conventions. Truth, then, from the human standpoint is discovered not invented. Human beings can know the facts because God made people with the necessary capacities to apprehend what is true. Truth is universal, absolute, and unchanging. Truth excludes whatever is falsehood. To deny the reality of truth is self-defeating. The skeptical attempt to deny the existence of truth ends up being self-defeating. This nullification results because all attempts to dismiss truth constitute claims about truth itself. The denial of truth is [a] contradictory statement because it inevitably results in an assertion about truth itself.
HINDUISM
In Hinduism, Truth is defined as "unchangeable", "that which has no distortion", "that which is beyond distinctions of time, space, and person", "that which pervades the universe in all its constancy". The human body, therefore is not completely true as it changes with time, for example. There are many references, properties and explanations of truth by Hindu sages that explain varied facets of truth, such as the national motto of India: "Satyameva jayate" (Truth alone wins), as well as "Satyam muktaye" (Truth liberates). "Satya' is 'Parahit'artham' va'unmanaso yatha'rthatvam' satyam" (Satya is the benevolent use of words and the mind for the welfare of others or in other words responsibilities is truth too). "When one is firmly established in speaking truth, the fruits of action become subservient to him ( patanjali yogasutras, sutra number 2.36 ), "The face of truth is covered by a golden bowl. Unveil it, O Pusan (Sun), so that I who have truth as my duty (saty-
The Phoenix – May 2014
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R E E T I N G S FROM GHANA TO THE B E L O V E D PEOPLE OF GREAT BRITAIN. My name is Roland Joseph Tetteh. I am your brother in the Lord. I was born in October 3, 1966 in Ghana. I now work as a logistics manager at William Pitt construction in Accra Ghana. I love the lord and the lord loves us all, every month I will be bringing to you God’s News from various different perspective. adharma) may see it!" Truth is superior to silence (Manusmriti), etc. Since major theories, major schools of thoughts, be it philosophical, epistemological, sociological or religious tenets make truth their prime objective, it stands to reason that there should be a little dispute about the very nature of truth. But since the pursuit of ultimate truth in a materialistic sense is fraught with logical inconsistencies, factual fallacies and is constantly been reviewed, adapted and altered to suit modern intellectual taste, it will be more appropriate for the student of theistic science, the one who has transcended the materialistic conception of ultimate reality, to adopt a different approach which is more accurate, reliable and not subject to change. Realizing and understanding God and reality, should be the final theory for anyone bent on knowing and understanding the nature of truth.
Birmingham Bishop Joins Worcester Warriors To Tackle Hunger
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he Bishop of Birmingham rolled up his sleeves with players from Worcester’s rugby team to prepare and serve a hot breakfast to a group of people who are vulnerable and often rough sleep across the City. Bishop David Urquhart joined members of the Worcester Warriors who regularly cook a hot meal at SIFA Fireside, a charity based in Digbeth that runs a Drop-In service providing resettlement, medical and mental health support, employment training and holistic Recovery Services to overcome alcohol addiction. The visit on was part of the Bishop’s support of the End
Hunger Fast which aims to raise awareness of food poverty and the issues surrounding welfare, low paid employment and rising food costs. During Lent the Bishop asked people to support SIFA Fireside which needs £10,000 a year to ensure it can provide breakfast to people who are homeless in Birmingham. Bishop David said: “It is the everyday work of Christians to roll up our sleeves and work to tackle poverty and injustice. Loving our neighbour is not just a nice phrase but a call to action, prayer and giving. We are the seventh richest country in the world but this charity does not have the cash it needs to buy milk, toast and cereal for break-
l L-R: Dean Schofield, Mariano Galarza, Augustin Creevy, Paul Warwick, Bishop David, Leo Senatore fast.” During End Hunger Fast campaigners encouraged up to 1,000 people to pledge £10 a year to
ensure homeless people can have breakfast at SIFA Fireside.
The Phoenix - May 2014
Page 11
AZUZA STREET WITH ROLAND JOSEPH TETTEH
Reverend Dr. Neville G. Wolliston
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r. Neville Wolliston grew up in a ministerial home. The second son of nine children, Neville, was born into the family of Overseer & Mother Wolliston in the West Indian Island of Jamaica. Answering a call to the missionary field, Overseer & the Wolliston family migrated to Birmingham, England in 1972 where young
Neville would obtain his primary education. By divine providence in 1979 his parents moved to the Unit-
Lord, Neville accepted Christ as his Savior at the age of nineteen and followed that action with believer's baptism,
ed States and settled in Hartford, Connecticut. Under the influence of a family focused in service to the
subsequently realizing he had a deep passion for Christ and lost souls. In 1984, he received his min-
isterial credentials with the call of the Lord to pastor with that an understanding of the pastorship having a greater significance than just being an inspirational speaker to the flock. He was appointed to lead in 1989 and ordained as pastor of this assembly. A ‘burden’ for betterment ensued and he aggressively pursued ministerial studies. After several years Rev. Wolliston earned postgraduate
degrees in Psychology and Biblical Studies. In 2003, he earned a degree in the Psychology of Counseling in Hartford, Ct from the United Christian College. In 2005 he completed his theological studies with a Doctor of Divinity degree from the Anchor Theological Seminary in Edinburgh, Texas. The commitment to excellence in education has culminated in the launching of an exciting program R.E.A.C.HRaising Educational Achievement and Cultivating Hope which is designed to help students of ALL AGES excel in academia. Dr. Wolliston lives an exemplary life of purpose; on purpose. He is a vibrant, enthusiastic leader, proficient orator and an effective educator who presents the challenge to his parishioners; to aspire to the highest level of excellence and accountability. He urges every person to rise and accept their God given mandate to be and make disciples for the Kingdom, because he believes in showing practical love - by being the hands and feet of Jesus In that very spirit. 2014 began with a vision to A.S.S.I.S.T™ (Attending To Spiritual And Societal Needs Immersed Strategically In Teamwork) a LWEM project founded by Dr. Wolliston. The A.S.S.I.S.T Project is designed to empower churches, located in rural or low economic parts of the world that proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, by helping meet the logistical needs required to be effective in their community. LWEM family, which has grown to include, LWEM Springfield, Mass and LWEM Mississauga, Canada; a reflection of its leader, is a thriving and energetic group of believers who are excited about the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the winning of lost souls. C u r r e n t l y, Dr. Wolliston serves as Senior Pastor of the Living Word
Empowerment Ministries formerly known as United Pentecostal Church of God Assembly, President of the Living Word Bible Institute and Director of the Living Word Fitness Program – LIVE FIT offering exercise classes and Martial Arts Training. Dr. Wolliston’s vision is to serve the “total man”; extending the bridge of hope to those facing real life issues; providing encouragement to help maximize their lives; and assistance in realizing and fulfilling their God given purpose. Dr. Wolliston is a man of integrity and profound excellence; he is highly respected and well-regarded by his peers. The divine favor and the calling of God is evident upon his life. As a result one of his favorite sayings is, “If God can’t do it, it can’t be done!” Dr. Wolliston has been happily married for more than thirty years to Lady Rosemarie Wolliston; who serves as the Choir & Women’s Ministries Director. The Wolliston family resides in the town of Windsor, Connecticut.
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LEGAL SERVICES - SUPPORTED BY
The Phoenix - May 2014
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ach month, we will bring you the latest legal news and advice, which is suitable to you with the full backing and support of the Birmingham Law Society. We will present editorial from participating law firms who feel the need to share some advice on the options available to a person in particular situations. It is hoped that this section will help to establish links between the legal profession and the wider public and break down barriers to legal advice for ordinary people.
Supported by
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We specialise in: Education Child Care Domestic Violence Office Hours: Monday - Friday 9.00am - 5.00pm Saturday & Sunday Closed
Infant classes and the limited right of appeal
Employment Injunctions Harassment
Tel : 0845 475 1996 0121 270 1566 Fax: 0121 523 5295
SOLICITORS in England and Wales. Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. www.sra.org
Branston Court, Branston Street, Birmingham, B18 6BA
he law limits the size of an infant class to 30 pupils per school teacher. When a parent is appealing for a place, the panel’s task is to review the decision already made; it cannot say that personal circumstances mean that the child should have a place at the school, if this would take the number of children in the class over 30. Parents can appeal but the prospect of success is low in all but exceptional cases. When an appeal is lodged, an Appeal Panel must consider the following matters: a) Whether the admission of the additional child/ren would breach the infant class size limit; b) Whether the admission arrangements complied with the School Admissions Code and the School Standards and Framework Act 1998; c) Whether the admission ar-
A
spiring barristers at The University of Law recently got the chance to practice their cross-examination skills in a real Crown Court setting, complete with genuine police officers giving evidence and practising members of the Bar acting as judges. A series of mock trials in took place at Blackfriars Crown Court for students undertaking its BPTC (Bar Professional Training Course) with nearly 100 Bar students acting as prosecuting and defence barristers during the trials, which heard fictitious cases of theft and drug offences. Trainee police officers and Special Constables from the Metropolitan Police took the stand to give evidence while practising barristers took the roles of judges. The roles of jury members, witnesses and court ushers were also played by University of Law students, including students undertaking
rangements were correctly and impartially applied in the case(s) in question; and d) Whether the decision to refuse admission was one which a reasonable admission authority would have made in the circumstances of the case. The panel may only uphold the appeal where it decides: a) that the admission of additional children would not breach the infant class size limit; or b) that the admission arrangements did not comply with admissions law or were not correctly and impartially applied and the child would have been offered a place if the arrangements had complied or had been correctly and impartially applied; or c) that the decision to refuse admission was not one which a reasonable admission authority would have made in the circumstances of the case. The threshold for finding that
an admission authority’s decision to refuse admission was not one that a reasonable authority would have made is high. The panel must be satisfied that the decision to refuse to admit the child was ‘beyond the range of responses open to a reasonable decision maker’ or ‘a decision which is so outrageous that no sensible person who had applied his mind to the question could have arrived at it.’ When schools have applied their admission criteria correctly and the criteria is lawful, appeals rarely succeed. It is likely to be only on the basis of a clear error in the allocation of places – difficult to prove because generally only the Admission Authority will know if the policy was correctly applied. Phil Storey Birmingham Law Society
Bar students hone skills in Crown Court
the LL.B law degree and the Graduate Diploma in Law. Nick Ross, Associate Professor at The University of Law Bloomsbury, said: “This was a hugely successful event which enabled our BPTC students to consolidate their learning in a real court environment and receive valuable feedback to improve their advocacy skills
from practising barristers.” At the end of each mock trial the jury gave their verdict and the practising barristers gave feedback to the participants. Bar student Jemma Cross said: “This event was very stimulating. The feedback and the chance to see all of the course come together during a trial was very rewarding.”
The Phoenix - May 2014
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SPECIAL STREET CRED SUPPLEMENT IN THE PHOENIX NEWSPAPER
MAY 2014
www.streetcredmagazine.com
REA WEE D OUR KLY DIGE OF A ST LL TH ENTE INGS RTAI NME NT ONL INE!
KEYSHIA COLE CREATES A MASSIVE STORM IN AMERICA WITH HER SHOE LINE
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ENTERTAINMENT
www.streetcredmagazine.com
Editors Note
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014 is looking good especially for Birmingham. A lot of great things are happening in the city and its great that people are finally seeing that we are a force to be reckoned with. I remember the days when artists would come to London and leave out Birmingham as part of their tour for whatever reason but recently artists are starting their tours in this city! Now I am not just boasting about Birmingham because I am from here but I really do feel we deserve to be on the map and our readers all over the world need to know what is going on. For me being in a national newspaper it’s an amazing opportunity to show what this city is really about. Right now we boast Europe’s
/markdwaynemdg /streetcredmag
The Phoenix - May 2014
largest shopping centre which you know as the Bull Ring, our new Train Station is like an airport and far superior to any in the UK, also the new John Lewis shopping centre is to come. As far as entertainment we have shows every week and we all know about the upcoming Wireless Festival. There is also our own version of TOWIE to come which is pretty exciting and I am very proud that Street Cred is involved with the program.
@MarkDwayneMDG1 @StreetCredMag
www.streetcredmagazine.com
Benefits Street gave a lot of attention to Birmingham and maybe not the attention many would think was needed but for sure we have got it. The eyes are on us and we certainly are keeping our eyes on what’s going on. We at Street Cred have had a great time this month seeing what new businesses were opening in Birmingham. One highlight has to have been the premier opening of Turtle Bay; the awesome Nandos-sized Caribbean restaurant. We were welcomed by a lot of bucks fizz, cocktails and food teasers. Have to say it was the best ever Caribbean restaurant experience I’ve had in my life. Check out our big review! Keep it up guys MD!
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y vocabulary has obviously evolved from my teen days. Nowadays I’m done with slang…well kind of! I find it all rather intriguing to be honest One day I had the pleasure of being within listening range of a group of girls and their conversation went like this: “He’s a wasteman, ‘bout beat! Beat, who fam? Idiot! He must tink seh gyals some smig, ya get me? Mans moist star!” SAY WHAAAATTT??? Later on that day, I heard a group of boys and their conversation went a bit like this: “She’s loose fam, swear down, bare man have pressed that! She’s a mattress, trus’ me! Get suttn off that and dip!” SAY WHAAAATTT’??? What is happening? Has slang taken over the English language? Do we no longer need dictionaries or thesauruses? Do we just watch an American music videos or films, take their word use and chuck a UK twist on it then ‘hey ho’ we have slang? I DON’T KNOW! I hate not knowing!
Chantelle’s
Spot
When I was younger I was always reprimanded for using slang, not including the ‘g’ at the end of words, and of the course the frequent use of the word ‘innit’. I now understand how annoying it can be! It really grinds on me to hear young people say ‘siiiiiiiccckkkkk’ when something is good but that is just their language. Back in the days, like the 1960’s, slang was used, it was different but it was used. All in all I have learnt that the use of slang words is here to stay PERIOD. It may evolve but it ain’t going nowhere.
One Man, One Guvnor
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wenty years ago Britain’s favourite publican Al Murray, The Pub Landlord, embarked on his one man mission as the King Cnut of Common Sense, holding back a tide of bottled beer and ninny state nonsense. To celebrate this milestone join this icon on his new tour with his brand new show One Man, One Guvnor. Al Murray The Pub Landlord: One Man, One Guvnor - 20 years at the lager top, coming soon to a theatre near you…
The Phoenix – May 2014
ENTERTAINMENT
www.streetcredmagazine.com Tell me about your business what is it all about and the main aim? Little Miss Creative is a network for young creative women. We provide workshops and events to help inspire and shape freethinking female leaders. The aim is to build a supportive community of courageous young women from all disciplines that can showcase their talent, art and business with like-minded individuals.
2013 after, its been going from strength to strength ever since. I have an amazing creative and passionate team, we just moved into an office in Birmingham City Centre earlier this year.
Who came up with the idea Little Miss Creative? Love the name and when did you start the company? After several attempts
How have you found being a woman looking to make it in Business? Have there been any barriers? It can swing either way. There have been instances when I’m just a person in the business world but there have also been instances where I’m a woman in a male dominated business world. With the latter it is hard to prove yourself, your work and your worth but I always find a way to overcome it by believing in myself and remaining passionate about what I do. I always keep my eyes on the future.
I came up with the name whilst envisioning the business that I wanted to pursue, also I used to love the 'Little Miss' books when I was younger. The company was started in
What inspired you to be in the industry you’re in? I wanted to have the freedom to express myself and create what I wanted to without restrictions. Whilst working in New York as a freelance marketer I had a yearning to start my own business. After two years in the Big Apple I came back to the UK and put my plans into action.
Why do you feel there is a need for Little Miss Creative? There are not enough organisations that focus on the empowerment of women, especially within the creative industry. I want to give young women a voice through our inspiring events, giving them a safe space to turn their dreams into reality. I want them to know that every dream they have can come true. Impossible doesn’t exist. Check out the full interview at www.streetcredmagazine.com
Music
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Theatre
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Comedy
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Dance
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Literature & Spoken Word
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Film
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Michael Jackson Like You’ve Never Heard Him Before.
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t was always said that if Michael when was alive was to work with up-todate producers then he would have awesome new music instead of us playing his classics over and over. Well, looks like its finally happened and our prayers have been answered as the new Michael Jackson album titled Xscape boasts 8 hot revamped songs mixed and produced by the leg-
Visual Arts
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Events
UPCOMING EVENTS @ Singing Nina Fri 9 May, 7pm Tickets: £14 (£12.50), £15 OTD
The Drum | 144 Potters Lane | Aston | Birmingham | West Midlands | B6 4UU
Komola Collective present
Birangona: Women of War Sun 11 May, 6pm Tickets: £8 (£6) Suitable for 14+
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endary hiphop & R&B producer Timbaland. We have heard the samples and it has to be said we feel that Michael would have loved what Timbaland has done with his vocals. Slave To The Rhythm is one to look out for as it boasts a phat bassline and nice dance tempo that’s suited for the cars and clubs. This is the up-to-date Michael we always wanted to hear.
Workshops
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Young People
Matribhoomi Theatre and The Drum presents
Desi Peo Sat 31 May, 7.30pm Tickets: £10 (£8) Performed in Punjabi
THE UK’S PREMIER INTERCULTURAL ARTS CENTRE www.the-drum.org.uk 0121 333 2444
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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW - WHITE DEE
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t is definitely not the norm for me to interview a nationally known celebrity who lives on my own doorstep. I was invited by Dee Kelly otherwise known as ‘White Dee’ of the now infamous and slightly controversial benefits street, to her lovely home for a cuppa and an interview. For me this was a very exciting thing to do as it really was all so new and even though I’ve interviewed many people from Birmingham, not anyone that has made it through a documentary. Dee was what you would expect her to be, bright, bubbly and funny (and she wasn’t even trying). When I approached her about the interview I wasn’t even expecting a reply, but reply she did and we clicked straight
away. I told Dee I wanted to do a no holds barred interview and to try to really get to know the real ‘Dee’ and to my surprise she was 100% up for it. One thing I will say is that Dee is all about the community in Birmingham and her love for her family and children is clearly obvious. None of this fame was planned, but she is going to use it to the advantage of helping others (not herself), Dee believes in the youth of the future and wants to highlight all the hidden talented youngsters that no one else would otherwise be bothered with. This sudden rise to fame is still to this day a big surprise and to be honest at 42 (although she says 25) years old Dee doesn’t know what to
do with it now its a major part of her life. This was one of the most realist interviews I’ve ever done. I got an exclusive over a cuppa and a nice plate of fish and rice as it was Good Friday. I spent hours at her home with her family and must say its like we’ve known each other for years and can say that we are now good friends, but then again anyone that has met Dee will say you do get that instant connection. No airs or graces just a down to earth person who loves her family and friends unconditionally. Dee is special and one to look out for, TV shows, comedy shows, film roles, DJ and has even dabbled at being a rapper. Words by Mark Dwayne
Mark Dwayne - So Dee how did it all start, how were you approached to do the show?
ple think they know the real me from watching a 45 minute programme for 5 weeks. Some people have been very judgemental and quite nasty, but I say don’t judge me if you don’t know me or haven’t met me. Meet me and then if you don’t like me that’s fair enough. Social media like Twitter and Facebook is where you come across some very nasty people. One said I should get off my fat arse and get a job - ermmmmm who’s the one following someone they don’t like, because I certainly wouldn’t be haha. I’ve also had people saying I’m not depressed because I don’t look depressed. Get a grip and do some research before you show your inner ignorance.
MD - I notice the street sign has been stolen, I almost never found you haha
White Dee - Well the ‘other Dee’ was approached at working links by Love Productions who were scouting Birmingham for people to take part in a documentary focusing on how people are still showing good old community spirit, and Dee being Dee, very impulsive said she would do it, invited them round to hers and after a couple of days got fed up with them and dumped them at my house. That’s just what shes like bless her. We let these people into our lives for 18 months or more, warts and all, they saw everything, good days, bad days, happiness, sadness the whole lot - I would love it if someday people could see the footage that they shot and chose not to show. MD - Sounds like your unhappy with Ch4? WD - Mark I have no regrets, because I believe everything happens for a reason, but I can hand on heart tell you this, we DID NOT know that the programme was going to be called Benefit Street until 2 weeks before the show aired. I mean in reality if someone had told us they wanted to do a documentary about benefits then we 100% would not of participated. Ch4 even asked participants to come up with names for the show, Caitlin being a teenager came up with Ghetto Street haha and another option was ‘we will survive’. Ch4 knew exactly what they were doing, they already had the name for the show, and knew exactly who to focus on and how to focus on them. MD - Are you not happy with the publicity this show has given you? WD - Like I said Mark, I am still me, still mom to Caitlin and Gerrard 1st and foremost, but I have no regrets, I have met so many amazing people since the programme aired, people wanting to meet me, speak to me, have their photo taken with me, and so many opportunities have come about. I think that its very unfair that I am the one that seems to have got the most attention out of this and I really don’t understand why. Up to today I still don’t know what is going on, but I am going to go with it, I just wish it could of happened for the others too. The programme was filmed nearly over 2 years, and peo-
MD - So lets talk about opportunities, what kind of offers you have had or landed. Is it true you were offered money to pose nude? WD - Oh please haha people are always referring to my ‘hanging baskets’ but I wouldn’t inflict them on the world, I’ve got 2 kids for god sake haha. I’m not in this for the money, I didn’t ask for this to happen and am still shocked at the positive reaction I am receiving. I do certain things for a laugh, I mean who 6 months ago would of thought or said I would be releasing a rap single. I am not doing everything I am being offered like some people seem to think, I still have my good/bad days and only do what I feel is right or beneficial to my family or friends. I have never done so much clubbing in my life, I’ve been called a gay icon, I have to laugh, I just love people for being themselves, we are all the same and no better than anyone else. We all bleed the same colour. I went to club DV8 the other week with Ashley Walters from So Solid Crew, Caitlin wasn’t impressed because she wanted to come - but nope - shes 16 haha. He thought I was mad, suppose he wasn’t too far from the truth. Ive spoken to Romeo Dunn on the phone also from So Solid, OMG is this really happening to me, he knew who I was argggghhhhhh so I gave him a name drop during the CH4 live debate, and his phone was popping afterwards. MD - Celebrity Big Brother whats going on there? WD - HAHAHA no comment Mark.
WD - Yeah to word is I’ve got it hanging over my bed haha, but nope its not there.
The Phoenix - May 2014
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Who is the Real
White Dee? “I’m a nervous es etim person, I som tand cant unders ually ct what people a. I fear want from mewn.” the unkno
MD - So who else have you met? WD - Rylan Clark from X Factor, oh my god he is amazeballs and so bloody tall, I was well shocked to meet him and couldn’t believe that he was just as excited to meet me, he told me that when he was watching benefit street, his mom said ‘pause the telly’ then said ‘oh my god your on White Dee’s telly haha’). I mean I’m just totally starstruck at everyone I meet and cant get over the fact that they actually know who I am. Its so surreal. MD - So I gather you are a bit Liverpool FC crazy? WD - followed them all my life, even named my little fella Gerrard haha, Who if I may add like his namesake is an absolutely amazing footballer and he is only 7. My ideal date would be the ice bath at the end of a match with the whole team haha. MD - What matters to you, are you really up for fame and fortune? WD - This attention has come to me completely out of the blue, I’ve got agents here there and everywhere wanting to manage me, but I control my life, I’m going to find it hard being told what to do and what not to do, I will decide, I’m a mom 1st and always will be. Many nights I cant sleep because my head is just spinning round, I try my best to do what I can. Family matters to me, I really miss my mom, she passed away in September 2011, people I know say that I remind them of her, always giving and putting other people first, and yeah that’s what she was like, she was the most amazing person in the whole world and I’m just lost without her. (moment Dee and Caitlin hug each other) Caitlin says, nanny was amazing and mom reminds me so much of her. At this point Dee starts crying, I give her a hug and nearly end up crying myself, this was a very deep and emotional moment in the interview. WD - I don’t know how some people can say I need to get over my mom’s death, I mean some people can be so nasty.
That’s my mother, she meant the world to me and our family. I do sometimes feel that she is watching over me and I just hope she would be proud of what I’m doing. MD - What kind of mad things have happened since you became a celebrity? WD - I hate the word celebrity, I’ve never once called myself a celebrity. At the beginning it was awful Mark, reporters banging our doors, shouting at us through the letterbox, camping outside the houses, tracking down people who knew me years ago trying to find out information about me. Its been manic, I mean I know their doing a job, but I’ve got kids and we were all very scared. I’m a nervous person, I sometimes cant understand what people actually want from me. I fear the unknown. MD - I’ve noticed that you are always pushing talented kids on facebook. WD - Oh my god hun these kids are amazing, the government needs to be realistic now and concentrate on channelling money into what really interests these kids. There are artists, footballers, actors DJ’s and designers of the future out there and the government doesn’t care about them well I do. I’ve met amazing talented young-
sters, and its these kids that we need to help out and focus on they are our future. My children alongside these kids inspire me, Caitlin is just totes amazeballs haha and is now doing work experience as a football coach with Diamond League, and Gerrard just makes me proud to be his mom. I’m also hoping to do some work with the Princes Trust, where I have also met some amazing kids and they have come from nothing to make something of themselves. MD - What does family think of celebrity status?
how people can do that to me, everyone seems to assume I’m loaded without just asking me outright. MD - So if i offered you a column in the paper what can we expect? WD - You can expect a lot of what’s happening in my life at the moment, what I’m really interested in is focusing on young local talent.
your your
WD - I can honestly say my dad and sister are very supportive and we are very close. I have a nice circle of friends some that have been in my life forever and some new ones who will be in my life forever. I’m very trusting and until someone does me or mine wrong then they will stay in my life always. I have some friends who I class as family and have done for a long time, who think I’ve sold out on them and made loads of money out of all this, saying I’ve changed. I’m still the same me, living in the same house, people I hold close to me have changed and ignore me and wont speak to me anymore, they are believing what is written in the press and its so not the truth. (Dee cries again and is comforted by Caitlin) I just don’t understand it Mark,
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o welcome to Dee’s Street, which is exclusive to Street Cred in the Phoenix. The amazing ‘White Dee’ is the new reality TV favourite. Many relate to her as she really is as real as you can get. Maybe its the unconventional way of becoming famous, but the fact is Dee is huge right now and people love her. Dee is the one of the most famous celebrities from Birmingham at the moment and is stopped everywhere she goes.
The Phoenix – May 2014
ENTERTAINMENT
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SELFIE QUEE N
What’s On
r u o t a n E r A P RI NCE
Chris Rea NIA, Birmingham 14 December 2014
Bryan Adams LG Arena, Birmingham 19 November 2014
Bryan Adams, will be plugging in once again and hitting the road with a full band this November to celebrate the 30th Anniversary of the multimillion selling album, ‘Reckless’.
Chris Rea is the man behind the number 1 album’s ‘The Road To Hell’ in 1989 and ‘Auberge’ in 1991, and countless hits including ‘Fool (If You Think It's Over)’, ‘On The Beach’, ‘Let's Dance’, ‘Josephine’, ‘Stainsby’ Girls and many more.
Peter Gabriel LG Arena, Birmingham 28th November 2014 The Saturdays NIA, Birmingham 15 September 2014
The Saturdays will take their new album on the road, performing to their fans in cities across the UK. The Saturdays are proud to present their ‘Greatest Hits Live!’ Tour.
BIRMINGHAM O2 ACADEMY
May 02 Kazabian 02 Propaganda 03 Catapult Club 06 Bad Rabbits 08 Catapult Club 09 Propaganda 09 Snooty Bobs 10 Embrace 10 The Rainband 11 Pure Love 12 Angel At My Table 13 Martin Stephenson & The Daintees 14 Michael Franti & Spearhead 15 Charlie Simpson 16 Propaganda 16 Catapult Club 16 Action Bronson 17 We Are Saviours 18 Courtney Love 19 Hank Wangford And The Lost Cowboys 21 M.A.D 23 The Upload Tour 3 23 Propaganda
l Miley Cyrus @ The NIA
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The new shows will continue to feature the original ‘So’ live band (bass-wizard Tony Levin, guitarist David Rhodes, keyboardist David Sancious and drummer Manu Katche) and span Gabriel’s illustrious career, including a performance of ‘So’ in its entirety. 24 Enemo J 28 FutureProof 29 The Riptide Movement 30 Propaganda 31 Graham Parker & The Rumour 31 Metallica Reloaded Skid Raw
BIRMINGHAM INSTITUTE
May 01 Everybody Looks Famous / White Clouds & Gunfire 02 Red light Room 05 Clean Bandit + Javeon + Kidnap Kid 07 The Wonder Years 08 Janelle Monae + Cody Chesnutt 09 The Kooks 09 Sam Pepper & Mazzi Maz 10 Catfish and the Bottlemen 10 Energy God & Macka Diamond 11 Bear Hands + Young Myths 12 Wolf Alice + GENGAHR 13 Jagwar Ma + Moko 16 Augustines + Empire Divide 17 LIT + Blame 17 The Correspondents 21 Bob Wayne
Larisha w tion in S on the best selfie w gave her ish and we at Str competian aweso me photo eet Cred This is an sho who is fun upcoming Birming ot. ha bubbly an d loves to m model party.
s st time Prince ha This will be the fir Birmingham in , ed im cla ac in ries of a show Following a se UK headlined and intimate s. s ar ou ye ne at 19 ta on ll sp wi le Friday 2nd May this year Prince a Tickets go onsa iced pr e shows earlier en ar ar ts ke UK l tic a regiona Midday. LG Aren headline his first 35.70 (in, £94.20 & £1 95. 20 19 2. ce £7 sin at s te th novation da wi re s 0 .7 ow £0 sh & a e aren cludes admin fe These exclusive his e. ce fe t sin lfilmen e his first levy) + £2.50 fu . 3RDEYEGIRL ar sidency in 2007 re on nd Lo t ou sold
Y WI N ETERN IT SET T IF G S D N O DIAM HOOT! S O T O H P D N A Win an Eternity Diamonds gift set along with photoshoot. Just bring along this article to the store and your name will be in the bag. Eternity Diamonds - Hurst St, Birmingham, West Midlands B5 4TD Name.........................................................................................................
Why Cant They Always Look Like This? Sex does se ll but class se lls too and looks a hell of a lot better than slease. Nicki Minaj an d audiences at Rihanna stunned the MTV Awards this year with their Movie shock-
Number....................................................................................................
23 Jimi Goodwin + Jake Evans 23 The Hoosiers 24 Marc Ford (Ex Black Crowes) + Elijah Ford 27 Foxes 28 AWOLNATION + Eliza and The Bear + Odjbox 29 The Enemy 30 Paul Heaton & Jacqui Abbott 30 Camera Obscura + Cry Baby 30 East India Youth + Jupiter C 31 SCHOOLBOY Q
LG ARENA
May 02-03, 17, 27 McBusted 09-10 Fire 2014 13-14 Katy Perry 16 Little Mix 18 Nine Inch Nails 22-25 Cirque du Soleil Dralion 28-29 Eagles
TOWN HALL
May 02 An Evening with Pam Ayres 05 Robert Cray Band 07 Sandrine Piau and Apollo’s Fire 09 Pink Martini presents The von Trapps 11 2014 Scout and Guide Revue 12 Lunchtime Organ Concert: Thomas Trotter 12 Pretty Yende 13 Belinda Carlisle 14 Beethoven’s Eroica and Martin Roscoe 16 Joe Brown in Concert 17 That’ll Be The Day 18 Rising Stars: Dionysis Grammenos and Karina Sposobina 18 Birmingham Canoldir Male Choir 48th Annual Concert of Remembrance: For the Fallen 20 When Villa Ruled Europe
21 The Rutles 25 Town Hall Tour 31 Phronesis
SYMPHONY HALL
May 01 CBSO Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade 02 Jazzlines Free Gigs: Birmingham Trondheim Exchange 02 Concert Dansé 03 Jethro Tull’s Ian Anderson 04 YES 05 Paul Hollywood Live 06 Tchaikovsky from the Moscow Philharmonic Orchestra 08 Swaati Khunti 08 CBSO Rachmaninov and Shostakovich 09 Jazzlines Free Gigs: Reed Bass 09 CBSO Silent Heroes: Buster Keaton 10 Reaching Out: A Day of Happiness 10 Don Williams in Concert 11 CBSO Family Concert: Bitesize Classics 11 CBSO Benevolent Fund Concert with Sir Simon Rattle 12 Tori Amos 14-15 CBSO Haydn and Mozart 15 Drumscapes with Jon Sterckx 16 Jazzlines Free Gigs: Tom Ford’s Horse House 16 Pappano conducts the Verdi Requiem 17 Symphony Hall Tour 17 Musical Picnic: Perhaps Contraption 17 English Reflections 18 Worcestershire Youth Music 20 Jeff Beck & Band 21 Musical Picnic: Midweek Explorer 22 Beyond Classical: Invitation to the Dance
23 Jazzlines Free Gigs: Tom Hill and ZZ Outsville Bop 23 Elvis Presley - On Stage 24 CBSO Der Rosenkavalier 25 Gareth Malone: The Live Tour 26 The Seekers: 50th Anniversary The Farewell Tour 28 CBSO Andris and Håkan in concert 29 Maggie 8 29 CBSO Pictures at an Exhibition 30 Kids Gigs 30 Jazzlines Free Gigs: Rachael Cohen Quartet 31 Sax in the City with The Notebenders
NEC
May 16-18 BodyPower Expo 2014 16-18 The Baby Show 18-19 BeautyUK 2014 18-19 HairUK 2014 18-19 Holistic Health 2014 20-21 Surfex 2014 21-22 Primary Care and Public Health
NIA
May 01 Betway Premier League Darts 03 The 48th KUGB National Karate Championships 16 Miley Cyrus 17 Diljit Dosanjh 18 WWE Live WrestleMania Revenge 24 An Evening With Julie Andrews 26 Shreya Ghoshal 31 New Kids On The Block
CIVIC/WULFRUN WOLVERHAMPTON
May 01 Paul Chowdhry (Wulfrun Hall)
ingly classy attir by all fans th e. The talk was at they shou ld look sophisticated m though they ar ore often even e not sophist icated :) Check out the stunning dres ses.
02 Paul Hollywood - Get Your Bake On! (Civic Hall) 02 Talon - The Best of Eagles (Wulfrun Hall) 03 Magnum - Escape From The Shadow Garden 2014 (Wulfrun Hall) 04 John Witherspoon Live (Wulfrun Hall) 08 Michael Bolton (Civic Hall) 09 Shappi Khorsandi (Wulfrun Hall) 10 Panic! At The Disco (Civic Hall) 10 John Cooper Clarke (Wulfrun Hall) 11 Echo And The Bunnymen (Wulfrun Hall) 12 Psychic Sally (Civic Hall) 17 Jon Richardson (Civic Hall) 21 Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues.. (Civic Hall) 24 Diljit Dosanjh (Civic Hall) 26 Slam Dunk Festival Midlands (Civic Hall) 30 Paolo Nutini (Civic Hall)
SLADE ROOMS, WOLVERHAMPTON
May 02 Tom Stade 03 Midlands Metal Crusade with Sylosis 06 Barrence Whitfield & The Savages 07 M.A.D. 08 The Rifles 10 Livewire 13 Delays 14 Boo Hewerdine 16 The Whiskey Syndicate 17 The Skirr 22 Eden’s Curse 23 The Double Happy 24 Still Marillion 30 An Acoustic Evening With Wednesday 13
The Phoenix - May 2014
Page 18
A TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE
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An Evening of Honour
2
012 X-Factor runner up, Jahmene Douglas will be the star attraction at a special Gala event to raise awareness of ‘Breaking the Silence,’ celebrating those who have overcome Domestic Abuse, Forced Arranged Marriages or Sex Trafficking. An Evening of Honour will celebrate the strength of those who against overwhelming odds, managed to overcome great personal adversity, and stand today as icons of inspiration and empowerment for victims of domestic violence such as Mandy Thomas & Jahmene Douglas The night will be held at Aston Villa’s Holte Suite, Villa Park, where, as well as performing, together with his mother, they will be discussing how they both overcame this abuse.
As well as a 4 course meal and much more entertainment, you will also hear from survivors, who against overwhelming odds will stand and break the silence on their experiences. Founder, Raj Jarrett, writes, “Maya Angelou once said: “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” For 20 years, I stayed silent. Not because I had nothing to say, but because I had no way of saying it. This, plus my abuser taunting me repeatedly that no one would want to listen anyway. But he was wrong. When I finally found the courage to break the silence, a project was born.” A fantastic night is planned and ‘Breaking the Silence’ would love your support on Saturday June 14.
l Mark Dwayne interviewing Destiny’s Child up close and personal
l Mark Dwayne close with Beyonce and LaTavia of Destiny’s Child - 1998
l Destiny’s Child with Vitality Hair Salon staff.
Looking back on w W
hoever invented cameras needs a pat on the back because there is nothing that can explain the feeling of looking back at your most magical memories. We at Street Cred decided to look through our archive of pictures from thousands of events that we have attended over the last 20 years.
Looking back at some of the most amazing times we have had on our journey and being the voice and eye of entertainment in the UK has been very emotional. We have so many photographs to go through there just hasn’t been enough time in the day but we have come across loads of people, especially celebrities, and when they started out we were
right there supporting them when no one would touch them. We have decided to do a monthly section called ‘Looking Back At When We First Met’ and what you will see is so many things that will surprise you. We have captured the best events and brilliant interviews with stars like Destiny’s Child! It’s amazing to see how young they look in these photos. On this page you can see how close we
l Destiny’s Child, Cleveland
ers intrigued Original DC M emb ‘98 at Street Cred M ag
Harris and Mykal Brown, South & City College
OMG is th started her m l DJ Ams Birmingham in the rave
l Iceberg Slim and Kcee of Choice FM
The Phoenix – May 2014
Page 19
A TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE
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‘Respect Due’
R Beyonce a nd M agazine Kelly proudly holdi ng that prom oted them the first in the UK
when we first met were as young people and I was privileged to be on the road with these lovely ladies. I used to help Destiny’s Child in the changing rooms before they would go on stage. I remember when I was with them in the audience watching Usher and they were dreaming to be as big. Matthew and Tina Knowles, Beyonces parents were very friendly and assisted us with anything we needed from the group.
hat Annika A llen ba media career w ck when she ith Street Cre d?
Beyonce was the most confident and always had that sparkle. She loved what I did and every time she saw me it was all hugs. I ended up being a good friend for these girls as they could relate to me because we were the same age. Street Cred was the first magazine in the UK that gave Destinys Child exposure. I was and
still am a big fan of R&B music and understood it fully and at that time we were the only magazine that knew all the urban acts inside out and gave them more exposure than any
l Destiny’s Child in Lozells, Birmingham - 1998. Analogue Photos by Mark Dwayne.
other magazine in the UK. We could see who was going to be the stars of the future, and I even knew that Beyonce would go solo and be the woman she is today. This classic photo of me, Beyonce and LaTavia of Destinys
eggae star Ziggy Marley has been vehemently stipulating the importance of today’s reggae artists respecting the music’s roots, believing that many of today’s younger reggae musicians are failing to show the necessary respect to the founding-fathers and pioneers of the genre. The singer, musician and son of Jamaica’s legendary reggae icon, Bob Marley, said, recently: “There’s and not enough respect for the history and the roots of reggae music today. It is a problem in my culture. We don’t pay enough homage to our roots. Many of the younger generation want to forget about where their music is coming from. Some of them feel they are bigger than anybody else that has come before them, but they have to humble themselves and bow down to the ones who paved the
Child was taken at Vitalities Hair Salon in Lozells Birmingham where they were sponsored by Proline. A big shout to Cleveland Harris of the Hair and Beauty industry who was very helpful, assisting us with the feature. Imagine Beyonce, Kelly Rowland, LaTavia Rob-
way for us. That’s the only way for the music to move forward.” He adds: “We need to remember the reggae music that is loved by people around the world, is the one created by the legends.” Ziggy strongly believes that some of today’s younger reggae musicians are failing to show the necessary respect to the music’s pioneers: “I think the next generation of reggae musicians has to expand their consciousness and also respect the history of the music,” he stated. ertson, LeToya Luckett; the original Destiny’s Child members signing autographs to people in the community for hours. It was the biggest thing to ever happen in the area and one that many will never forget. This Looking Back section is going to bring back a lot of memories for our Street Cred readers and pics that we will post will touch a lot of hearts for sure.
The Phoenix – May 2014
Page 20
GADGETS AND GAMING
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urgeon Simulator, which we reviewed a while back, is back in the form of an iOS release for iPad! In what can only be described as a digital version of the classic game “Operation” crossed with shouting, blood and frustration! True to the original game, the controls are mindbendingly annoying and anything but precise, but horribly addictive. You’ll find yourself trying again and again to save your patient, Bob, although most of the time it’s from you that he needs saving! Featuring a redesigned touch-intuitive control system, this feels like a really well made port to tablet, including the old favourite Heart and Double-Kidney transplants, as well as eye operations and a dentistry mode. Initially created during the 2013 Global Game Jam, Surgeon Simulator 2013 was released in full for Windows PC, Mac and Linux via Steam last April, and with the new tablet version retailing at a cool £3.99 it’s definitely one to get your hands on, and do your worst to poor Bob!
F
rom the weird and wonderful to the beautifully simplistic, there was something for everybody at this years Gadget Show Live held at the NEC in Birmingham. From the 9th to the 13th April, gadget lovers descended on the NEC to get their fix of the hottest new gadgets on offer. As expected, a number of the big players were out in force, including Microsoft and their range of ultrabooks, PC’s and Surfaces, Western Digital, Pioneer, Samsung, Sony and and many more. With gadgets to improve, clean, chop, relax, and adapt, the range of options available to attendees was
vast,spanning over 3 halls of gadgety goodness. On the innovative front, Canny Capp produce a plastic bottle top that snaps onto any 330ml, 500ml or 1 pint can, providing a sealable solution for your cans. Useful at BBQs, in the car or just for use at home, it's a simple and cheap idea that has a place in
most homes. Besides the Super Theatre event show, one of the busy attractions was the massive game of Flappy Bird on a huge screen. With consumers queuing up to try and get a high score on the day, it proved as utterly addicting non he big screen as it is on your mobile or tablet. Cooking and leisure weren't left out either, with gadgets on offer for the home, garden and entertainment. A range of knives and slicers, alongside jacuzzis, massage chairs, home gym equipment and gadgets for outdoor activities including head mounted cameras all had busy stands. Increasing use of the Oculus Rift VR headset, coupled with other technology allowed businesses to give attendees a fully immersive view of their products, or just a quick tour through a roller coaster to ensure their stand would be long in the memory. If you are yet to head down to The Gadget Show, then you really are missing out, look out for the next event which will be from the 8th to the 12th April 2015!
The Phoenix – May 2014
Page 21
BIG SCREEN
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BIGScreen The Amazing Spider-Man 2 Review
A
ndrew Garfield swings back onto the big screen as Peter Parker/Spider-Man for the second instalment of The Amazing Spider-Man. This time he is up against Jamie Foxx as Max Dillon, the gaptoothed nobody who Spider-Man saves during an early sequence. The mild-mannered Oscorp worker develops a bit of a fanatical obsession with Spider-Man,
wORDS by DANIEL RILEY
until an accident at work (at Oscorp? Surely not...) releases Electro onto the unsuspecting citizens of New York. In The Amazing Spider-Man 2, Garfield brings more of Peter Parker to life, creating much more of a personality for the webslinger. Gwen Stacey, portrayed once again by Emma Stone makes a reappearance as Parker’s love interest, and what an interest it is.
Torn between his love for her, and the promise he made her father in the first film to keep her safe, he is haunted by visions of her father and has to decide between keeping his promise and keeping the girl. The special effects have been ramped up, from fights in power stations, to the destruction of most of Times Square, you are very much in the thick of the action, with electricity and web flying in every direction. The 3D effects are nice, not too overused or clichéd and add a flashy element to the film. The
E AT C N A R EA P P RT Y A A S P E Y K A MA HD T E R E I D B E T 1S WHIT hite Dee sur-
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prised fans as she announced that she was to go out with her mates to get swished on her Facebook status. Swishers were in awe of the real down to earth star and partied with her to the early hours, DJ’s on the night were Mark Dwayne, Mista Smoove, Mixerdeuce, Soundboy Coby, Ambitious and Mystikle Blue who gave the crowd nothing but party
THE EYE OF ENTERTAINMENT AND CUTTING EDGE LIFESTYLE
MAY 2014
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NOW S U READ NE ONLI Y EVER Y A FRID
KEYSHIA COLE CREATES A MASSIVE STORM IN AMERICA WITH HER SHOE LINE PLUS WHITE DEE, SWISH CLUBBIN, GRIMEY, GADGETS, SPIDER-MAN 2 & MORE!
on Phone Tablet PC Mac
only gripe with the effects are that of Electro’s CGI. Resembling the lovechild of Mr Freeze from Batman and Robin and a tesla coil, the look works, but there is something about it that just feels like it doesn’t belong. Amplifying and eventually answering the question posed by the last film regarding the fate of Parker’s missing parents, and bringing in Dane DeHaan as
Harry Osborn, with his eventual emergence as the Green Goblin keeps the movie ticking along nicely, without overcomplicating the story too much. Moral choices and judgements abound push these story arcs along to their entertaining conclusions. Director Matt Webb (all puns and jokes aside) has produced a brilliant instalment of the Spidey
franchise, and with all of the interesting exchanges towards the end of the film, puts the next film in the series in a very promising light. As always with a Marvel film, there is a post-credits scene which you should look out for! If you’re a fan of the friendly neighbourhood Spider-Man, then this is definitely not one to miss!
flavours. Swish Clubbin is the biggest Friday party in the Arcadian area and has been so for the last year. The ultimate Old Skool social experience where everybody knows everybody or wants to get to know somebody. If you haven’t been swished yet then join the smart sexy and sophisticated clubbers on the 2nd Friday of every month at the New York style Arca Bar where its intimacy with a high energy atmosphere.
Look out for the new WEEKLY
ONLINE every FRIDAY
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Gossip Fashion Gadgets Big Screen and more!
THE EYE OF ENTERTAINMENT AND CUTTING EDGE LIFESTYLE
MAY 2014
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NOW US READ E ONLINY EVER AY FRID
KEYSHIA COLE CREATES A MASSIVE STORM IN AMERICA WITH HER SHOE LINE PLUS WHITE DEE, SWISH CLUBBIN, GRIMEY, GADGETS, SPIDER-MAN 2 & MORE!
The Phoenix – May 2014
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FASHION AND BEAUTY
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The Ginger Tree Boutique Grand Opening
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elebrating the launch of this, their second store, the opening of the Ginger Tree Boutique marked a new chapter in high-end designer wear for women in the West Midlands. It provides stylish, exclusive Italian clothing and accessories to make women right across the board feel feminine and confident. A haven for women who want to look and feel good at all times, it caters for all, in various sizes, with dresses, skirts and tops straight from their Diva Catwalk range of designs. Situated in the Gracechurch Shopping Centre, in Sutton Coldfield, the Ginger Tree brings a fantastic addition to High Street fashion shopping for exclusive, fashionable clothes,
for young and old, that is within High Street prices. “We aim to provide real clothes for real women,” says owner, Ken Grey. “We are very proud of our range of womenswear and accessories, which includes our ‘Italian Curves’ collection ranging from size 8 to 24, as too often women of a certain age are ignored in the fashion industry. Here at Ginger Tree we provide exclusive designerwear for every women – no matter what her size might be.” The first Ginger Tree Boutique was opened in 2009, in Aldridge, West Midlands.
The Official Mr & Miss Nigeria UK 2014 Pageant Announces Casting Call
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l Kenneth Grey, left at the launch of the new Ginger Tree Boutique
he official ‘Mr & Miss Nigeria UK’ Beauty Pageant is taking over London this October 2014. Aimed at empowering and enriching the Nigerian culture in the UK, the ‘Mr & Miss Nigeria UK’ pageant and showcase has been scheduled to take place especially in October in celebration of the Nigerian Independence. Presented by Vir2uous Limited, the official ‘Mr & Miss Nigeria UK’ pageant is an innovative, unique and one-of-a-kind pageant and showcase, held in support of Earth’s Haven Care Foundation, a non-profit, youth led organization involved and poised to promote creativity and enterprise development among less-privileged and vulnerable teenagers in Nigeria.
It aims to help further develop Nigeria and bring awareness to its underlining issues, and will serve to connect British born and raised Nigerians with their heritage back home. It also aims to bring the Nigerian diaspora community together through the arts, to celebrate the diversity and culture among young Nigerian talent and to celebrate the beauty of Nigeria and its people. Applications are now officially open, with auditions open now until June and public voting to begin in July. The final pageant show will see the six males and six females with the most public votes compete for the title of Mr & Miss Nigeria UK 2014. If you think you have what it takes, you can apply www.officialmmnuk.com/#!apply/coil
The Phoenix – May 2014
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Keyshia Cole wants her fans to be trendsetters wearing her shoe line
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teve Madden has teamed up with Keyshia Cole to design a new limited edition shoe collection once again. Due to the phenomenal success of the first range the company made millions from being associated to the multi-platinum superstar. Since Steve Madden launched the brand in 1990, he has become of the worlds leading designers & marketers of fashion footwear and accessories for women and men and you may have seen him feature on the movie the Wolf of Wall Street. Today, music is still one of his muses and his continued collaboration with Keyshia Cole is a natural extension of this inspiration. Fresh off the heels of her Red Hot Woman to Woman tour, Keyshia is shining brightly and Steve Madden is thrilled to partner with the star. See the collection of scorching ankle boots, tall sexy pumps and striking stilettos which females
all over America are going wild for. This collection you can buy from Steve Maddens website. "Keyshia is great to work with. She brings fresh ideas to the table, and knows what girls want. It was a pleasure to work with her again." commented Steve Madden. "As my second line with Steve Madden gets released, I want young women to feel they are the latest trendsetters, feeling sexy and being comfortable at the same time," said Keyshia Cole.
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FASHION AND BEAUTY
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ENTERTAINMENT
The Phoenix - May 2014
www.streetcredmagazine.com
WORD4WEAPONS
Welcome to ‘Camara features’ a new column where I will be spotlighting some of the most amazing charities, organisations and people I have had the privilege of working with. Be a part of my journey and learn and enjoy about being inspired.
Get A Life, Bin That Knife! T his is the motto on the infamous bins of the charitable organisation WORD4WEAPONS. Amongst the hundreds of other charitable organisations fighting against gun and knife crime in the UK, Michael Smith was also troubled with the ongoing violence within our communities -especially amongst the young people. Angela his wife of 29 years saw Michael troubled by the reoccurring crime, so with the full support from Angela and the rest of his family, Michael decided that he would no longer sit back and watch helplessly. He would take the next steps in pursuing his vision and he believed, with God's help, he could make a positive change. Michael Smith set up the initiative in 2007, to reduce the spiralling gun and knife crime which is prevalent in our communities, this type of crime affecting all re-
l Word4Weapons Award Key
l Michael with Camara receiving her Award gardless of race, culture, colour, gender or faith. Operating under the Charity Ascension Trust and working with Street Pastors, Community Leaders, Faith Groups, and various UK Police Forces, Michael has been successful in partnering groups from all over the UK. Word4Weapons is the only organisation of it's kind, placing weapon bins on the streets in the UK since the launch of the first bins in the London Borough of Islington in March 2009. This organisation is the UK’s first weapons exchange programme, trading a weapon for an "All I Need" bag containing DVD’s, real life stories of people who have turned their lives around, information on
l Michael, Angela and three of their 4 children
organisations who offer help and Michael Smith worked alongside advice, and an optional bible. the Police crime commissioner of Previously receiving endorse- the West Midlands, Bob Jones. ments from both London MayHe also works closely with the or Boris Johnson and Deputy Through Unity charity that supMayor for Policing, Kit Malthouse, the Deputy Mayor said of the knife bins: “One of the great strengths of this project is that it comes from the community, and they are playing their part in the big effort against knife crime. They are a critical part of this effort”. Following the launch of the first bins in 2009, there has been a collection in excess of 10,000 weapons including a l Off the Streets number of firearms. There are currently 40 bins in ports the victims and families London and the West Midlands who have lost loved ones through with more currently being put violent crime. in place. Knowing that no vision Making use of what we already can be delivered without sup- have within the community, the port, The Peace award winner, knife bins are converted from
Salvation Army clothes bins generally placed near places l Michael’s Peace Award who have done good within soof worship and other community buildings ciety. The Word4Weapons awards, throughout the capital. This trading of word for weap- does not forget the roots of which ons is what Michael says he it all began. The weapons deposhopes is somebodies "change of ited are not only a sign of hope heart and mindset", so a simple but a sign of how things can be throw of the weapon can lead to a changed simply from bad to good. crime free life. The weapons are regularly "We can’t say how many lives have been saved, but we can melted down and made into gold point to all the knives that have plated Word4Weapons award been recovered, and we know keys. Engraved with the word education, this the key to a betthat it will have had an impact”. Knowing that crime has a ter future. Ultimately, Michael Smith's knock on effect within the community and understanding and goal is to have Weapon Bins in appreciating young people, every major city in the UK and Word4Weapons also conducts worldwide. His belief is "By savschool education programmes to ing one life, you can be saving a help get weapons off the streets generation" and this is what he and to create a safer environment hopes to do. We thank you Michael Smith for everyone. Michael saw the ongo- and others like you, who strive ing cycle of young peo- to make this world a safer place. ple who were involved in crime being taken Do you know of anybody who on trips and almost celyou would like to nominate ebrated for some of them for an award? changing their lives but Feel free to contact Michael he questioned the reward Smith and Word4Weapons at of those young people info@word4weapons.co.uk who continually did good www.word4weapons.co.uk to better themselves and others around them. Volunteers in London and West With this in mind, Midlands are welcome. Michael set up a Word-
Get in Touch with Camara 4Weapons special award ceremony in 2012 to celebrate these unsung individuals
l London Mayor Boris Johnson and Michael Smith
camara@thephoenixnewspaper.com www.camaraofficial.com www.youtube.com/camaraofficial www.linkedin.com/CamaraFearon
Camara (aka mizzcamara for websearch)
The Phoenix – May 2014
EATING OUT
www.streetcredmagazine.com
A ‘Game Changer’ In Caribbean Fine Dining
A
new experience in Caribbean dining was launched in Birmingham as Turtle Bay Restaurant & Bar opened its doors to a public who would witness a ‘game changer’ in the much-loved cuisine. Situated on the corner of John Bright Street, in the city centre, it opened with a special launchnight where guests were treated to an evening of authentic Caribbean dishes inspired by beach shacks and street hawkers such as Jerk Chicken and Blue Mountain Curry Goat before enjoying
Caribbean Cocktails including Rum Runner and Tobago Tea. Entertained by Troy Ellis & the Hail Jamaica Reggae band and Laid Blak, two of the country’s urban reggae heavyweights, the Caribbean vibe was which well and truly brought to the city centre on the night The 5,000 sq ft, 130-cover restaurant is the seventh ‘Turtle Bay’ to open in the UK and an experience their promises to whisk you away to an island paradise, where you can relax and enjoy Caribbean food with friends and family in an informal
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environment, but still have friendly and good service. General Manager, Chris Halford, said “Turtle Bay is a welcome addition to the city’s restaurant scene. It’s clear that the Birmingham has been crying out for a restaurant like this. The second city has a reputation for the quality of its restaurants and Turtle Bay, combination of delicious food, warm and friendly service and an unforgettable atmosphere, is a significant addition for Birmingham’s food lovers.” One guest at the launch described Turtle Bay as a “Game Changer for Caribbean dining Birmingham.” Another said it was “historic.” It demonstrates Turtle Bay’s confidence in the market in Birmingham. There are 7 further restaurants planned to open throughout the UK in 2014.
ACKEE TREE CUISINE CARIBBEAN & ENGLISH TAKE AWAY GOOD FOOD TAKES TIME TO PREPARE... Breakfast Caribbean Breakfast
£4.00
English Breakfast
£4.00
Ackee and/or Callaloo, Salt Fish, Fried Plantain and Fried Dumplings.
Fish or Vegetarian Fingers, Beans and Fried Plantain, Toast or Fried Dumplings.
Porridge £2.50 Reg £3.50 Lrg
Main Meals All dinners are served with either Rice & Peas, Plain Rice or Hard Boiled Food, accompanied by Steamed Veg or Salad
Reg
Lobster (Half or Full Portion) Roast Fish Steam Fish Brown Stew Fish Ackee & Salt Fish Pak Choy with Salt Fish Curried Prawns Stewed Soya Chunks Mixed Vegetarian Chunks Stir Fry Vegetarian Chunks Stew Peas Curried Chicken Brown Stew Chicken Jerk Chicken Curried Goat/Mutton Cow’s Foot Oxtail
Delivery Orders Over £10.00!
Lrg
From £10.00 £10.00 £8.00 £5.00 £7.00 £4.00 £8.00 £3.50 £7.00 £.400 £8.00 £3.50 £7.00 £3.50 £7.00 £3.50 £7.00 £3.50 £7.00 £4.50 £9.00 £4.50 £8.00 £5.00 £10.00 £4.50 £9.00 £4.00 £9.00 £5.00 £10.00
The Kebab and Grill Co is a diner with a heart of gold
And much more...
300 Slade Road, Erdington, Birmingham, B23 7LU
Tel: 0121 377 6565
Open 7 Days a Week! Mon-Thur : 10am-10pm Fri-Sat : 9am-11pm Sun : 12pm-10pm
A
Birmingham eatery has gone ‘above and beyond’ by taking on three homeless people as members of their staff after spotting them whilst proving food for the local homeless charity where they stayed. Opened in December last year, the Kebab and Grill Co, in Erdington, took on the three, to work in their kitchen, to add to another seven who make up the 10-strong team. Co-owner, Waqar Mirza, who provides regular meals to the Bir-
mingham Homeless Outreach, said: “Why not change lives if you can? When I took them on, they had no confidence. Now their confidence has grown. I want this to be a community diner. I want it to be a community hub. I want to plough something back into schools and the people. Nothing is impossible.” Mirza and his partners took on the diner after a successful career in construction before jointly deciding to to venture into the thriving food industry. Londoner, Waqar, said: “Visiting Birming-
ham as regular as I did I often thought of the lack of variety when it came to food. I thought that there was an opportunity to do something about it. So, with like-minded friends, I did just that. I see myself as a risk-taker and that’s what this is. But, with the quality food, provided by quality staff, our regular customer base is growing, by the day.” With food of the highest quality and hearts as big as it comes, the Kebab and Gril.Co will only go from strength to strength.
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HEALTH AND WELLBEING
The Phoenix – May 2014
Good hearing is no longer a question of age
T
he world’s first active bone conduction implant has now been approved for children over five years old. The MED-EL Bonebridge was announced two years ago
for adults and now will be able to transform the hearing ability of children for the first time. The award-winning technology allows individuals with conductive hearing loss or single-sided deafness to hear again
by transmitting sound through the bones of the skull. The innovative hearing implant system is now being used on all five continents worldwide. Like all MED-EL hearing implant systems, the Bonebridge consists of two components: the implant and the audio processor, which is hardly visible and can be worn under the hair. The audio processor converts the signals that it receives from the implant into mechanical vibrations. These are transferred to the bones of the skull, which forwards the sound waves to the inner ear. Now, children can benefit from the Bonebridge technology. After two years of experience with the bone conduction implant, Prim. Univ. Prof. Dr.
Georg Sprinzl, Head of the Department of Otolaryngology at the Karl Landsteiner Private University in Germany, sees this as a promising opportunity for many young patients, "Thanks to the Bonebridge system it means we can enable them to learn and develop just as children with normal hearing do.” With its transcutaneous intact-skin technology, the Bonebridge is the first bone conduction implant system that uses an implant positioned completely under the surface of the skin. For its development of the Bonebridge bone conduction implant, MED-EL was awarded the Austrian State Prize for Innovation at the end of March 2014.
ADVERTORIAL
Pitt-Main Mentoring Service Helping Support Mental Health Issues
P
itt Main mental health mentoring service with the support of www.visitnorthfield.co.uk support people with mental health issues via a fully qualified mentoring program. We offer free mentoring services for people who need and want support with any issues they maybe facing in life, the service is promoted throughout the West Midlands and UK and is a one to one service, supportive, listening, sharing experience, non judgemental, achieving goals, signposting to treatment and long term if needed, we recognized there was a huge lack of support of this kind for mental health sufferers and through my experience of meeting many people in the wider community needing various forms of help and support, and also taking into
account the shortage of government funds I founded PittMain mentoring with the ability to offer this much needed voluntary intervention into the heart of many more communities across our city the West Midlands and UK, and as the lead mentor at Pitt Main I have a very strong passion to support and mentor others and through qualifying as a mentor and counsellor and through my extensive experiences within mental health over the last 12 years I’m in a great position to work with others and support them to achieve their own goals in life. The service is funded by pittmain,if you are interested in an initial no obligation confidential telephone chat please call 07967-037445 or email pitt-mainmentoring@live. co.uk the service can be face to face,telephone or skype based.
The Phoenix – May 2014
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HEALTH AND WELLBEING
T
he British Heart Foundation (BHF) is urging people of the West Midlands to take on a unique challenge and join the fight for every heartbeat by taking part in some fundraising with a difference. The UK’s heart health charity is asking the people of the West Midlands to become a BHF “Heart Flyer “ and take on a 10,000ft tandem skydive in aid of the fight against coronary heart disease – the UK’s single biggest killer. The training and jump, which is completed on the same day, is available at 20 drop zone locations throughout England, Scotland and Wales, including Tilstock, Shropshire, in partnership with specialist parachute company provider, UK Skydive. And, if you raise over £400 in fundraising, you will be able to jump for free. You will be attached to a professional British Parachute Association Instructor as you jump out of the plane and free fall at around 120mph for 45-50 seconds. Not only will it be the thrill of a lifetime, but you will be helping to fund essential heart research that will save lives. Last year, BHF Heart Flyers raised over £100,000 to help continue their life-saving work. This year, they want to smash this total. Coronary heart disease is responsible for around 6,800 deaths in the West Midlands each year, that’s nearly 19 people every single day. To find out more and to sign-up, visit bhf.org.uk/heartflyers
Become a Heart Flyer
O
ver 3 million people in UK suffer from diabetes; 29,000 of these are children with type 1. A child diagnosed with type 1 diabetes aged 5 faces having 19,000 injections by the time they are 18 years old. For families living with type 1 diabetes, numbers are an everyday fact of life. Life is a constant battle with complex calculations to try and balance blood glucose between 4 and 7mmol/l, and they live with the fear of time spent either with damaging high blood glucose, or low blood glucose, which can cause unconsciousness, coma, and sometimes worse. Type 1 diabetes also strikes in adulthood, and everyone diagnosed with the condition - whether a child or adult - will live with it for the rest of their lives. Type 1 diabetes has huge health, economic and quality of life costs for those diagnosed with the condition, their families, the NHS and the wider economy.
CQC consults on new approach to inspecting and rating care services
P
eople who use and run health and adult social care services and the public at large were asked for their views on the regulator's plans for inspecting and rating care services. Over the past year, the Care Quality Commission has been developing a new approach to the way it works, the main elements of which being larger,
more specialist and expert inspection teams led by chief inspectors, greater involvement in inspections by members of the public with personal experience of services, better use of information to identify risks and plan inspections, and ratings for all health and adult social care services. The consultation is on the de-
UK is 5th Highest Of Type 1 Diabetes In Children
tailed guidance on how CQC will regulate, inspect and rate NHS acute hospitals, mental health services, community health services, GP practices, out of hours services, care homes; home care services; and hospice services. Three overview documents were introduced and separate, detailed draft guidance for seven different types of services:
CQC Chief Executive David Behan said: "We set out proposals for different types of care services and we have been testing our new style inspections in hospitals, mental health and community health services and will be testing them in adult social care services and GP practices. The changes we are making are vital to ensuring that we are able to make sure that health and social care services provide people with safe, effective, compassionate, high quality care and encourage care services to im-
prove. Throughout these changes, we will always be on the side of people who use services and it is important to us that we hear what people think of our plans." Secretary of State for Health, Jeremy Hunt said: 'A new, independent and rigorous inspection regime will give the public vital information on health and social care performance, and the Chief Inspectors will shine a light on
areas where improvement is needed. The CQC is seeking views on important elements of their inspection programme and I would encourage patients and all other interested parties to respond. This will help to drive up quality.'
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ADOPTION AND FOSTERING
W
ith a national shortage of Foster carers across the UK, there are more children than ever who need a caring and loving environment, which every child has the right to experience. Whether a crisis in the family, illness or relationship difficulties could be some of the reasons why a child is placed in care.
There are already so many fantastic individuals who foster and adopt children into their families- but we need more! At the Phoenix, all of our team are committed to raising awareness of fostering and adoption through our campaign not just for the month of May, but for an entire 12 months!
The Phoenix - May 2014
FOSTER CARE FORTNIGHT 12-25th MAY 2014
We will be highlighting the inspiring work of current carers, the extensive support and training that is available and the difference that you could be making in a young persons’ life. If you feel that you can offer this, or even if you would like to find out a little bit more – don’t hesitate! It could make the greatest difference to a child’s life.
With support from
What is Fostering? the child is looked after. The local authority must be told about the arrangements and visit to check on the child's welfare.
Is fostering a job?
All foster carers are registered with and contracted to a local authority or independent fostering provider. Increasingly foster carers are seen as professionals and receive a fee on a basis of being self-employed.
What do foster carers do?
F
ostering is a way of providing a family life for children who cannot live with their own
parents. It is often used to provide temporary care while parents get help sorting out problems or to help children or young people through a difficult period in their lives. Often children will return home once the problems that caused them to come into foster care have been resolved and that it is clear that their parents are able to look after them safely. Others may stay in long-term foster care, some may be adopted, and others will move on to live independently.
Are there different types of fostering?
Types of foster care include: • Emergency - where children need somewhere safe to stay for a few nights. • Short-term - where carers look after children for a few weeks or months, while plans are made for the child's future. • Short-breaks - where disabled children or children with special needs or behavioural difficulties enjoy a short stay on a pre-planned, regular basis with a new family, and their parents or usual foster carers have a short break for themselves. • Remand fostering - where young people in England or Wales are "remanded" by the court to the care of a specially trained foster carer. Scotland
does not use remand fostering as young people tend to attend a children's hearing rather than go to court. However, the children's hearing might send a young person to a secure unit and there are now some schemes in Scotland looking at developing fostering as an alternative to secure accommodation. • Long-term and permanent not all children who cannot return to their own families want to be adopted, especially older children or those who continue to have regular contact with relatives. These children live with long-term foster carers until they reach adulthood and are ready to live independently. • "Connected persons" or "kinship" fostering or "family and friends"- where children who are looked after by a local authority are cared for by people they already know. This can be very beneficial for children, and is called "connected persons", or "kinship" fostering or "family and friends". If they are not looked after by the local authority, children can live with their aunts, uncles, brothers, sisters or grandparents without outside involvement. • Private fostering - where the parents make an arrangement for the child to stay with someone else who is not a close relative and has no parental responsibilities, and the child stays with that person (the private foster carer) for more than 27 days. Although this is a private arrangement there are special rules about how
The foster carer's role is to provide high quality care for the child. All children in foster care will be looked after by a local authority and the foster carers will work in partnership with the local authority to provide this. The IFP will support foster carers to work in partnership with the local authority. The foster carers may also work with other professionals such as therapists, teachers or doctors to help the child to deal with emotional traumas or physical or learning disabilities.
local authority's fostering team or with a fostering agency in your area.
What preparation and training do foster carers get?
People who want to become foster carers need to go through thorough preparation and assessment. • They attend groups where they learn about the needs of children coming into foster care. • Alongside this, they receive visits from a social worker. • The social worker will then prepare a report that is presented to an independent fostering panel, which recommends whether this person/family can become foster carers. • Training does not stop when
Adoption & Fostering Our ongoing campaign to help the children in need in our communities Are foster carers paid?
All foster carers receive an allowance to cover the cost of caring for a child in their home. For foster carers working on behalf of an agency, this is set by the individual fostering agency, and is usually dependent on the age
see if anyone else in the family can care for them. If this is not possible, a family must be found who can provide "permanence" for the child, to allow them to feel as secure as possible. This either happens through long term fostering or adoption. If a foster carer decides that
What kind of people become foster carers?
Fostering service providers, including local authorities, need a wide range of people to meet children and young people's very different needs. Wherever possible foster carers are sought who reflect and understand the child's heritage, ethnic origin, culture and language, and fostering agencies need carers from all types of backgrounds. People do not need to be married to become a foster family they can also be single, divorced or cohabiting. Gay men and lesbians can become foster carers. There are no upper age limits for fostering, but fostering service providers expect people to be mature enough to work with the complex needs that children needing fostering are likely to have, and should have a good support network and be in general good health.
How are foster carers recruited?
Fostering service providers often recruit new carers through publicity campaigns or newspaper or radio advertisements. They may have information stands in public places. If you are interested in becoming a foster carer, the best first step is to get in touch with your
a person becomes a foster carer. All carers have an annual review and any training that's needed to ensure they are suitable to continue fostering. • Training is linked to the training and development standards for foster carers set out by the Training Support Development Standards (TSDS) which have to be met by the end of first year of fostering. There are slightly different expectations for family and friends carers and short break carers. • Foster carers are supported to continue to attend training following approval.
of the looked after child.
What about adoption?
Fostering is different from adoption because when a child is in foster care, the child's parents or the local authority still have legal responsibility for them. But when a child is adopted, all legal responsibility for the child passes to the new family, as though the child had been born into that family, and the local authority and the birth parents no longer have formal responsibility for the child. When there is no possibility for a child to return home to their parents, attempts will be made to
they want to adopt a child, they can ask to be assessed as a possible adopter for that child. Foster carers also have the option of applying to become Special Guardians to children who are already in their care who need more legal security but where adoption is not the right option.
What to do next and further information
If you are ready to take the first step to becoming a foster carer then contact your local fostering agency or visit www.baaf.org.uk for more information.
The Phoenix – May 2014
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ADOPTION AND FOSTERING
Fostering – making a difference, transforming lives
H
ave you ever considered becoming a foster carer? Have you ever considered the benefits fostering could bring to YOUR life as well as the lives of vulnerable children in Birmingham? Birmingham’s carers come to fostering from a variety of previous experiences and careers. Many have found that Fostering has not only rewarded them with the satisfaction of improving children’s lives, but also with the impetus to
take on new personal challenges and goals for their own lives and careers. During this 2014 campaign we introduce you to a host of carers who have done some amazing work with some of Birmingham’s most vulnerable children and young people. In many cases, they have come to fostering from a completely different career and immersed themselves in the business of caring and giving our youngsters opportunities for a better life.
The Phoenix – May 2014
FOSTER CARE FORTNIGHT 12-25th MAY 2014
O
ADVERTORIAL
n 12 May, Birmingham City Council will join the rest of the country in launching National Foster Care Fortnight with the ‘Guess Who Fosters?’ campaign. Our aim is to raise awareness of Birmingham’s continued need for foster carers for sibling groups, older children and children with disabilities. Several of the city’s existing carers are joining in the campaign to tell their stories and to help dispel the myths around
WHY FOSTER? Our carers say: “I don’t imagine anyone would ever say they regret becoming a foster carer,” fostering. We will share a series of stories and you can log on to www.fosteringbirmingham.com to join in the game of working out which of the people featured are real
Birmingham foster carers. You can also find details of how to join in our Web Chat during Foster Care Fortnight, or details of where in the city you can pop in to see us and have a chat with staff and foster carers to have all your questions answered.
EVENTS!
B
“Fostering is challenging and demanding but extremely rewarding. It is an ongoing learning process and has made me question all aspects of my own life. It has been a journey of personal development” “these are the children that people have the least expectations for and they end up exceeding …”. “Fostering is lifeenhancing – you gain as much from them as you give them”.
irmingham has a constant need for foster carers of all backgrounds and we are currently looking to recruit 50 new carers for children with disabilities, sibling groups and older children. Members of the Recruitment Team will also be out and about in the city over the coming months so look out for our information stands. We shall be starting off in the Rotunda of the Library of Birmingham from Wednesday 14 – Wednesday 21 May 2014 (Weekdays 12pm – 6pm; Saturday 11am – 5pm; Sunday 12pm – 4pm) Keep an eye on the website www.adoptandfoster.co.uk for future dates or contact the A & F Recruitment Team on 0121 303 7575.
“You have to do it for the right reasons and to be passionate about it. You must also remember that it is a partnership and you have to work with the other professionals around you”
Lambeth schools offer every child a place in September
F
Working for Yoo
l 18-year-old David Mills who found work with Yoo, project manager Simon
A
Aldis,Yoo recruitment manager Diane Thomas and Cllr Andrew Johnson.
new recruitment agency paying workers a minimum of £7.45 an hour has opened its doors in Wolverhampton. Yoo Recruit is the city council’s own recruitment agency operating from offices in Queen Square. The authority has created Yoo to find the most suitable people for its temporary vacancies, but also to save money by cutting out the expensive fees paid to private agencies. The council estimates that it can save at least £320,000 a year by using Yoo to find its workers. Councilor Andrew Johnson, Cabinet Member for Resources, said: “The council has a lot of temporary positions that need to be filled at short notice in areas like catering and cleaning. Before now we have used expensive private agencies who take a fee to find suitable people to fill the roles. We felt that there was no point paying for something we
could do ourselves.” Since it opened for business in late February, 279 people have signed up to Yoo either by coming into the office or by registering online. They include 18-yearold David Mills, from Bushbury in Wolverhampton, who had struggled to find work after registering with private recruitment agencies, but got a job cleaning at Bilston Market within two days after visiting Yoo. He said: “I saw the adverts for Yoo in the city centre and I just walked into the office. The staff were really friendly and helpful and within two days they found me a job cleaning at Bilston Market. I had really struggled to find work after registering with about six private recruitment agencies, so I’m delighted.” Yoo is also currently helping the council to find new lifeguards to work at the pools at Bert Williams Leisure Centre and Central Baths.
l Current Travel & Tourism students based at the Sutton Coldfield Campus at Birmingham Airport
New Aviation Course Takes Off
B
irmingham Metropolitan College has got a new course in Aviation off the ground which will give Travel & Tourism students studying for a Subsidiary Diploma in Aviation Operations at its Sutton Coldfield Campus access to real-life work experience opportunities in specially designed training rooms at Birmingham Airport. A number of job roles are available in the aviation industry including retail, customer service, cabin and ground crew, hospitality, catering and passenger logis-
tic with the industry growing at a fast rate. Stella Raphael-Reeves, Faculty Director for Travel & Tourism at Birmingham Metropolitan College, said: “We are seeing an increasing interest in students wanting to study for careers in aviation which is why we’ve introduced a brand new qualification at our Sutton Coldfield Campus from September. The BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Aviation Operations will be available for school leavers and students will study at the college campus for two days a week, spending one day at the
Flight School with transport provided. It’s vital that local people are equipped with relevant industry skills and the Flight School based within the airport grounds is ideal for students and will afford them with hands-on experience in a real working environment.” Anyone interested in studying for the new qualification in September can attend an Open Event on Thursday 8th May at the Sutton Coldfield Campus between 6.00 pm and 8.00 pm for more information. Full details of the course are available on the website: www.bmetc.ac.uk.
or the second year running, every child whose application was on time has received an offer of a secondary school place in Lambeth, new figures have revealed. More than 85 per cent of parents who applied to a secondary school in the borough have been offered a place at their first or second-choice schools. On the day that parents across London are told which secondary schools their children have been offered, Lambeth Council revealed that it dealt with 2,419 applications this year, an increase of 147 on 2013. The proportion of applications made online rose from 50.8 per cent in 2013 to 97 per cent this year. Overall, the number of children being offered places at their first or second-choice schools also rose this year; 1,629 children were offered a place at their firstpreference school, 46 more than last year, and 442 were offered their second preference – 72 more than in 2013. The Council has confirmed that there are also enough spaces in Lambeth schools to support all late applicants.
The Phoenix - May 2014
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CAREERS, RECRUITMENT AND EDUCATION
l (l-r): Sukhvir Dhillon, The Reverend Tony Kinch, Cabinet Member for Leisure and Communities Councillor Elias Mattu, and Kirsty-Marie Taylor
Employability Scheme Celebrates Success
A
unique Wolverhampton scheme aimed at boosting residents’ career prospects has been hailed a success. The Park Village Employability Scheme, which was set up to help people overcome barriers stopping them accessing job opportunities, has helped people get back into work or on to train-
ing programmes. The 12-week coaching and mentoring programme was coordinated and delivered by Manjit Cheema and Karen Sahota, from the North East Neighbourhood Services Team. It focused on the needs of each individual and helped to build their confidence and motivate them to achieve their career goals.
In all 15 residents took part with two gaining employment and one with a job interview coming up shortly. The Park Village Employability Scheme has been run in partnership with a number of providers who have contributed to its success including the Wolverhampton Adult Education Service, Wolverhampton College, YMCA and Aspiring Futures. Councillor Elias Mattu, Wolverhampton City Council's Cabinet Member for Leisure and Communities, said: “We are delighted with the success of this scheme. We are committed to helping people get back into work or training to help them boost their career prospects and this programme has helped achieve that. Credit must go to all the learners and to Karen and Manjit for their hard work to ensure the scheme was a success.” Kirstie Marie Taylor, who has successfully found employment, said: "I have found it very difficult to find work but I feel this scheme helped me to achieve my ambition of gaining employment as a Carer with Sevacare.”
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M AKE T H E BR I G H T CHOICE
Team 93 Are Prince’s Trust Winners
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et out to inspire and make a big difference in young people’s lives, the Prince’s Trust Team Program proved yet another success as a group of young men and women were recognised for completing a series of teambuilding exercises, the end of which will see them not only make big impressions on their own lives, but those of people around them. Team 93, based in North Birmingham, received their certificates acknowledging completion of the program which saw them successfully undertake tasks which included canoeing, camping, reconstructing and mentoring. Their aim - learn how to put trust in other people and confidence in themselves. Twelve hardy souls undertaking 12 hardy weeks, much of which was well out of their comfort zone, but 12 young men and women who can take their experiences forward to benefit them as they make their career choices. From landscape gardening to caring in retirement homes, their growth in life-skills, knowledge and confidence was a joy to see develop. One participant, Andrae McKenzie, is gearing towards a career as a train-driver. Praised for his diligence and leadership qualities, he heaped praise on the Prince’s Trust Team Program, saying:
“The 12-week program was a valuable experience for me. The program is something that I would recommend any young person to undertake.” One of the benefactors was Osborne Nursery, in Erdington. Acting Head, Sharon Eeles, said: “The children loved what Team 93 did. They made a fantastic impact on the children’s learning and the nursery as a whole.” Other speakers came from Birmingham Metropolitan College and West Midlands Police. Many of Team 93 will go on to study at l BMETC.
Andrae McKenzie
Hospital Traineeships Learn Vital Skills
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ive young people have college. NCFE Level 2 Award in Develtransformed their The Traineeship programme oping Skills for the Workplace job prospects and is a funding initiative which and functional skills in Maths gained vital skills by was launched by the Minister of through the BCH Traineeship completing Walsall College’s State for Skills and Enterprise, programme. Traineeship programme at Matthew Hancock, last year. It Scarlet, a single mum, said: Birmingham Children’s Hos- aims to help young people who “I would recommend this propital NHS. want to get an Apprenticeship gramme to anyone. We have all The college teamed up with or job but don’t yet have the ap- learned so much. It is a way of the hospital’s Foundation Trust propriate skills or experience. learning in a really supported to put five students through the Students worked in a variety environment and BCH really nine-week Traineeship course, of departments such as heart valued our work. So many new offering them valuable work investigations, human resources opportunities have now opened experience across a range of de- and the neurology ward and because of it.” partments. all five have now achieved an Following the training four students including Scarlet King, 16, Hannah Richmond, 16, Kieran Bird, 19, and Adam Johnson, 21, have now secured paid Apprenticeships at the hospital while Sophie Powell, 16, has applied for an inter- l Sophie, Kieran, Scarlet, Adam and Sophie celebrate the completion of their Traineeship nal apprentice programme outside Birmingham Children’s Hospital. Four of them will now be carrying out vacancy at the paid Apprenticeships at the hospital as a result
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HOLIDAY AND TRAVEL
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xperiencing the “Isle of flowers,” with its magnificent Fort-de-France Bay, lush tropical rain forest and majestic Mont-Pelée volcano, will be made easier this summer thanks to American Airlines. Starting June 11 through to August 13, 2014, American Airlines will launch an additional weekly non-stop connection from Miami to Martinique, featuring a departure and return on Wednesdays. The flight will supplement its weekly Saturday service from Miami to Fort-de-France, the island’s capital.
With the convenient schedule, visitors will be able to check-in to their hotel, villa or B&B and then head directly for one of Martinique’s storied beaches or to a local restaurant for cocktails and dinner to enjoy a rum punch and to sample the island’s distinctive Creole French cuisine and other culinary delights. Martinique, one of the true gems in the Caribbean, can also be reached four times weekly via San Juan, Puerto Rico on Seaborne Airlines. Like those of American Airlines, the flights are conveniently timed to allow easy connections from anywhere in the United States.
All aboard as Red Funnel launches new look Red Falcon ferry
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ed Funnel Isle of Wight Ferries officially unveiled its new look passenger vehicle ferry after a major £2.2 million investment to the ship’s passenger facilities which the company is confident will set a new standard for cross-Solent travel as it continues to grow its market share and in 2013 carried 3.2 million passengers and nearly 764,000 vehicles. Isle of Wight visitors who travel on Red Falcon will benefit from 55% more inside seats, two additional passenger lounges, a new sun deck and a wheelchair friendly promenade deck which offers amazing views across
Southampton Water and the Isle of Wight. Air-conditioning has been installed throughout the ship and pet owners will have use of the new lift-accessible North Lounge. For most visitors, their Isle of Wight holiday experience starts the moment they step onboard and Red Funnel has incorporated a lot more entertainment on Red Falcon aimed at both adults and children. A large interactive Isle of Wight map forms the centrepiece of the design in the main passenger lounge and two large 65” touch screens boast an extensive image gallery and games for kids. Business travelers can use pow-
Travel to ‘beat the boredom of living in the UK’
hat are your reasons for travelling? A desire to see the world, experience new cultures, or get your CV looking tip-top? New research has shown that young Brits have a less cheery reason to go globetrotting – a third of young people choosing to travel abroad are doing so because they are just bored of Britain. While 43% say they are seeking adventure and 21% aspire to work overseas, 36% of those surveyed said they had simply had enough of Britain. The research, carried out by Smaller Earth UK, also revealed that more than half viewed the UK jobs market as ‘bad’, with only 28 % classing it as ‘good’. The survey of 1,000 young people aged 18-30 highlighted how 65% had a clear idea about their future career, but felt that the opportunity to work and travel overseas would enhance their prospects of competing in the employment market. Smaller Earth UK Chief Executive Bastian Weinberger said: “We know from the increasing number of applicants we are seeing that young people continue to have serious concerns about the opportunities available to them in Britain. “They are therefore grabbing with both hands the chance to work and travel abroad to improve their prospects of securing jobs in the future, either overseas or in the UK.”
Connecting you to Jamaica for less
er points for recharging phones, laptops and tablets throughout the passenger areas and the first phase of a much improved free Wi-Fi solution will be available Food lovers have a new hot food menu with signature dishes such as Red Funnel’s famous full English breakfast and delight such as beer battered cod & chips, using Goddard’s beer from the Isle of Wight. Kevin George, CEO Red Funnel, comments: “We’re delighted to be bringing Red Falcon back into service in time for Easter, and know that our regular customers and new visitors to the Isle of Wight will be impressed by what she offers. The investment comes at an exciting time for the company and is part of our ‘first choice’ strategy which will drive our growth momentum. It is therefore great news for our customers and good news for the local economy.”
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American Airlines Expands Service To Martinique
The Phoenix – May 2014
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The Phoenix – May 2014
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HOLIDAY AND TRAVEL
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inter is an enchanting time to visit China. Imagine visiting the Great Wall or the Forbidden City with hardly anyone there to disturb your view. In contrast, when you visit Vietnam, Thailand or India you’ll replace the crisp, cold days with warm ones. Experience fascinating Asia this winter and take advantage
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of Wendy Wu Tours’ exclusive offers. Enjoy a Free Flight Upgrade with British Airways when you book a China tour and savings, per couple, on Southeast Asia and India Tours. The UK’s leading specialist to Asia, Wendy Wu Tours provides unrivalled local knowledge and experience, fully inclusive prices, outstanding customer satisfaction, and award-winning holidays and guides
Page 34
OVERSEAS NEWS
The Phoenix – May 2014
Jakes Triathlon and Fitness Retreat
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amaican hideaway Jakes geared up for their 19th triathlon last month with a dedicated package to ensure triathletes and supporters alike sample the best of what the bohemian bolthole and its surrounding community can offer. Those seeking a fully integrated healthy holiday or simply prefer to compete with themselves were also able to opt on ‘A Fitness Trip in Rebel Terrain’ with New York fitness guru Ross Anti
from the celebrated Equinox gym franchise. A true grass-roots event, the vibrant fishing community of Treasure Beach provided the awe-inspiring backdrop for the race which comprised a 500m swim - 25k bike ride - 7k run across rugged red terrain and warm and wild sea. A ‘Likkle Jakes’ Kids Triathlon’ was also available for budding Bolts and Wiggos. All proceeds raised benefited local non-profit organisation BREDS.
Founded by Jakes’ owner, Jason Henzell, BREDS’ main mission is to promote education, sports, cultural heritage and emergency healthcare in the area through various initiatives such as the foundation of pioneering sports community facility Treasure Beach Sports Park and the Treasure Beach Sports Academy, Black Galleon Fish Sanctuary and the Greater Treasure Beach Sustainable Development Plan.
Barbados Tourism Authority appoints new Vice President of Marketing and Sales, UK
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s of May 2, the Board of Directors of the Barbados Tourism Authority has announced that Ms. Petra Roach, Vice President of Marketing and Sales, UK and Fellow of the Institute of Travel & Tourism, will assume the role of Interim President and CEO (Ag.). Over the past twelve years, Ms. Roach has been a driving force for the Barbados Tourism Authority in the UK market, developing key campaigns including the British Airways Football Legends Invitational Tournament and the Top Gear Festival Barbados, as well as pushing for the ratifying of Britain's Air Passenger Duty, which
was reformed earlier this year. Ms. Roach is also a member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing, and sits on the Boards of the Branson Centre for Entrepreneurship, the Sport for Life charity, and the Caribbean Tourism Organisation, UK. Chair Adrian Elcock stated: "Ms. Roach has been instrumental in delivering exceptional results in our main source market, the UK, for the past twelve years. Known for her passion for Barbados and her innovative, strategic approach to marketing the destination, her tireless work has led to the establishment of strong relation-
ships across Europe, increased exposure for Barbados, and to several industry awards for the Authority. We look forward to the invaluable contributions she will make to the Barbados Tourism Authority as we continue to confidently tackle challenges and create opportunities for Barbados in the global travel and tourism industry."
l H.E. Mr. Akbar Al Baker (left) meets with the Honourable Mayor of Philadelphia Mr. Michael Nutter (right) and the Chief Executive Officer of Philadelphia Airport, Mark Gale, and Qatar Airways Senior Vice President of the Americas, Bart Vos.
Qatar Airways Ceo Meets Mayor Of Philadelphia To Discuss Economic Impact As New Flights Launch
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n the US, Mayor of Philadelphia, Michael Nutter and senior officials held a high-level meeting with Qatar Airways Chief Executive His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, along with a high-level delegation from the airline, to discuss new trade, business and investment opportunities. As the first new international carrier to launch a service to Philadelphia in more than 10 years, Qatar Airways, a member of the oneworld Alliance, began daily scheduled passenger flights between Philadelphia International Airport and Doha International Airport last week. Al Baker said that the airline planned to bring new opportunities to the city of Philadelphia by investing in the community and helping boost trade, tourism and business links between the State of Qatar and Philadelphia. “Mayor Nutter has taken great strides to make Philadelphia a truly global city and Qatar Airways is proud to offer an additional boost to the local economy, helping to generate new jobs and
l H.E. Mr. Akbar Al Baker, CEO of Qatar Airways (left) with the Honourable Mayor of Philadelphia, Michael Nutter create a substantial economic impact.” Qatar Airways looks forward to creating a lasting bond between the cities of Philadelphia and Doha,” added Al Baker. “There is an immeasurable opportunity for cultural exchange between the people of these two great cities and we expect this new route will serve as a strong conduit for trade and commerce, via our award-winning World’s Best Business Class. We are pleased to bring the city of Philadelphia into our global
community. Qatar Airways is in the business of bringing the world together, and thanks to the hard work of many here in Philadelphia.” Over the next few months, the network will grow further with the additions of Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport, Turkey (May 22, 2014), Edinburgh, Scotland (May 28, 2014), Miami, USA (June 10, 2014), Haneda, Japan (June 18, 2014), Dallas/Fort Worth, USA (July 1, 2014) and Djibouti (July 27).
WEDDINGS PARTIES FUNERALS CONFERENCES CHRISTENINGS pbcaribbeancusine@outlook.com 07896 174 219
The Phoenix - May 2014
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SPORT - WITH STEVE WILLIAMS
For readers who like me, love nothing more than hitting the golf course, I have the perfect summer challenge. On June 13, hundreds of golfers will tee off as the sun rises and in teams of four, attempt to play four courses before it sets – 72 holes, 15 miles of fairway. By joining them and taking on the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign’s Four Course Classic event, you can help the charity fund vital medical research and support for 70,000 families in UK living with rare musclewasting conditions. There are great courses near you taking part and chances to win fantastic prizes, so gather friends – or rivals – and prepare for some serious golf. You could help to change lives. To find out more visit: fourcourseclassic.co.uk, email: golf@muscular-dystrophy.org or call: 020 7803 4824. Sam Torrance OBE
A letter from golf legend, Sam Torrance OBE
Cash scheme for Sandwell sports clubs unveiled
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est Bromwich Albion's Youssouf Mulumbu and Thievy Bifouma joined forces with the council's leisure boss to unveil a new grant scheme to support sports clubs to urge greater participation in sport. There are over 100 sports clubs in Sandwell which work tirelessly to support local communities to engage in sports activities and the council recognise the invaluable work they do. Youssouf Mulumbu and Thievy Bifouma joined Councillor Paul Moore, Sandwell Council's cabinet member for health and wellbeing, to promote the scheme and is supported by The Albion Foundation and West Bromwich Albion Football Club. Councillor Moore said: "Sports clubs play a major role in helping people young and old stay fit and healthy. This money can be used for host of reasons to boost participation in sports
On the Four Course Classic you get the chance to play four courses in one day, on one of the longest days of the year – Friday June 13. Chip in and change lives; registration costs £25 per person or £100 for a team of four and all funds raised help to fight muscle-wasting conditions.
Footie Legend Lends Support Continued from Back Page
Boxing returns to The Rec
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permanent boxing club in Brixton Recreation Centre moved a step closer with Afewee, the renowned sports and training organisation based at the Rec have been working with Lambeth Council and the centre’s operators GLL. The launch of the club, in the Centre’s Energy Zone, provides all the relevant high-tec facilities including non-contact sessions, open to children and adults of both sexes. Steadman Scott, founder of Afewee, who’s been leading the campaign for boxing said: “This is a real milestone and a great achievement for everyone who’s worked so hard to make it happen. Brixton has always celebrated boxing stars
when they visit and now we can find and support the next generation of local grown talent.” Afewee’s A J Carter, a professional heavyweight boxer, unbeaten so far, demonstrated his technique at the launch. He said: “Afewee helped me to put my life back on track and I’m now on the way to achieving my boxing dream. This is a great opportunity for local youngsters to find out what boxing is about and how that focus and discipline can change your life.” Afewee’s style of football coaching is highly respected and has earned a reputation for producing disciplined and skilful young players, many of whom can be found in the London Premiership academies and football league teams.
Mohamoud Said, 19, who played for the winning men’s team, MGS, couldn’t hide his excitement at meeting Saunders and booking a place at the National Finals. “The standard of football was really good, so it was satisfying to win the tournament and I’m looking forward to representing the Midlands in the nationals,” he said. Jodine Robb, who played a key role for winning women’s team Meadway Madness, was equally as enthusiastic, adding: “We’re looking forward to going through and it should be pretty good going to the national final. It is important that girls get the same opportunities in football like this because it is great to get in that team environment and it makes you feel a bit more a part of football itself.” The StreetGames Football Pools Fives is now in its second year, having launched in 2013 with a hugely successful inaugural season that travelled across 12 cities in the UK, and reached over 13,000 young people, before 16 teams and 160 competitors reached the National Final at St George’s Park.
across Sandwell. I urge sports clubs from across the borough to get in touch and tell us how they want to use this money to get more people in Sandwell active." The scheme will run for 12 months and the applications will be assessed by a panel of councillors, council officers, voluntary sector representatives and local partners. The first round of entries started on April 1 and runs to June 30- applications can be downloaded from the website. Rob Lake, Albion Foundation director, said: "It's fantastic news that the council is making this funding available for sports clubs. Sandwell's clubs have been waiting a long time for an opportunity like this and I know it will be well received." Further information about the scheme and applications, visit http://www.sandwell.gov.uk/ cashforclubs
Golf Challenge for Charity Page 35
Football legend supports young people at major tournament
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ormer Aston Villa striker Dean Saunders was inspiring teams of disadvantaged young people from the West Midlands when he attended last month’s StreetGames Football Pools, at the West Midlands Regional Tournament held in Birmingham. Saunders was showing his support for the programme, which takes five-a-side football to some of the hardest to reach communities in the UK and gives young men and women the chance to experience volunteering, coaching and trying a range of other sports. 22 teams competed with the men’s tournament won by MGS, whilst the victorious women’s team was Meadway Madness - both from Birmingham. Each team now benefits from an amazing prize – a place in the StreetGames Football Pools Fives National Final held at The FA’s national football centre, St George’s Park, in September. Discussing his reasons for supporting the StreetGames Football Pools Fives programme, Saunders said: “It is a fantastic programme and having the experience from management I really believe that giving youth some responsibility in being in a team can make a real
difference. It is important to have grassroots programmes like this to reach out to the more disadvantaged areas so they get to experience the best facilities.” The West Midlands regional festival saw the young people come from a range of community and youth projects from all around the region including teams from Coventry, Stoke and Wolverhampton.
Continued on Page 35
Cram Joins Endurance Programme
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ritish Athletics have announced that Steve Cram has joined the British Athletics Endurance Programme. Under the guidance of Head of Endurance Barry Fudge, Cram will become a key advisor for guiding and mentoring athletes and coaches. The former 800m and 1500m specialist joins Paula Radcliffe, who also works for British Athletics on an advisory basis. The Endurance Programme is geared towards podium success at Olympic and world level and enables British coaches the chance to up-skill and develop alongside some of the world’s best coaching set-ups such as Nike’s Oregon Project with Alberto Salazar. A delighted Cram said: “It’s an exciting time for the British Athletics Endurance Programme and it’s great to be part of it.”