The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017 by The Phoenix Newspaper

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The End Of An Era - Page 30

A Night of Love, Faith & Praise Feature Starting on Page 6

King G Mall Receives B.E.M. Recognition - Page 13

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Page 4 - The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017

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rison Link has been operating since 1985 and during that time they have held contracts with the Probation Service, helped thousands of prisoners and their families, trained people to work with prisoners and sent teams of people to help prison chaplains with ministry. Due to government cuts and the semi privatisation of the Probation service they have lost much of their income but are still continuing to help prisoners and their families. “As a Christian organisation they feel that this is vital because the prison system is full of broken lives and we know that God wants the church to be involved in the restoration process. Mathew 25:6 Says " I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.". “This year Prisoners Week runs from the 8th to the 14th of October. In the UK there will be a special prayer focus for prisoners and their families. “Prison Link also want to take this opportunity to raise funds for

the work we do, specifically linked to helping ex prisoners finding accommodation and helping them with independent living. “With this in mind we are asking you to make a special donation to this very worthy cause. “If you do we would really like to list you as stakeholder on our website but if you don't want to be listed please let us know. “Donations can be made by bank transfer to : Name: Prison Link Acc/Num - 31821369 Sort Code - 40-46-13 “We are a registered charity as you will see on our website. Please use your name as reference and let us know if you donate. “Also remember to visit our website; www.prisonlink.info I hope to hear from you soon. Ricky Dehaney Prison Link CEO ricky@prisonlink.co.uk 07949203280

Poppy Run Set to Raise Further Funds for Armed Services

by Steve Williams

series of family friendly races will be taking place in locations across the country in October and November as a way to remember the fallen and raising funds for those in need in the Armed Forces community. The Poppy Run; in 15 parks across the country, including; the north, the Midlands, Wales, London and in the south, is set to be held during the Remembrance period - Saturday October 28 Sunday November 5 – is also a chance for people to achieving

their own personal triumph. And this will be a Run with a difference where you can choose the time, location and distance. If a Poppy Run locations isn’t right for you but you’d still like to take part, there’s the ‘My Poppy Run’ where you can join the rest of the Poppy Runners in the 5km distance or take on a 10km, 15km, half marathon or the full marathon distance for the ultimate Poppy Run challenge. The first Run was last year (2016), with one of the organisers, Daniel Buckley, said: “Many runners said, then, that they will defiantly be back this year with friends.

Without the support of communities across the country this event would not be able to happen and the funds raised for a much-needed charity that is personally close to me, and a lot of people have used, wouldn’t be possible. Thank you very much for all the support last year and hopefully see you all this year.” Entry is free and there will be added ways to raise money, by purchasing medals and t-shirts separately, or fundraise £50 to receive a medal and a Legion fundraising prize. For more information, contact: events@britishlegion.org.uk.

The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017 - Page 5

NEWS

Birmingham Conservatoire Proudly Opens Its Doors

he new centre for musical excellence, the Birmingham Conservatoire opened fully in September. The building, located at the Birmingham City University City Centre Campus right next to Millennium Point, is the result of £60m of investment into the City, producing, as Principal of Birmingham Conservatoire Julian Lloyd Webber so aptly put it at the launch, “the finest facilities of any music college in the UK.” The relocation due to the Paradise Circus redevelopment was a move forced upon the Conservatoire by Birmingham City Council after a compulsory purchase order hit the old building, and so rather than complain, the stage was set to create something bigger and better. “The task has been to create a cultural hub to project and protect the performing and visual arts across the city, not just for the stu-

dents.” And they have certainly done that, with 5 superb performance spaces, 7 state of the art recording studios and more than 100 rehearsal and practice rooms, the new Birmingham Conservatoire is a sight to behold. Bright, airy and full of inspiration, it is the perfect new home for musicians, performers and more from across the city, and indeed, across the globe. “We will not rest at being the best in the UK,” explained Lloyd Webber, “we want to be the Conservatoire of choice for music students from all over the world. The future of music education lies right here in Birmingham.” Birmingham Conservatoire has consistently placed highly on league tables, most recently 2nd in the Guardian’s Annual League Table for the provision of music education in the UK, significantly above every other institution below them.

But that isn’t something you should take at face value, the collective voice of the student body spoke as well, playing the Conservatoire 2nd again, only 1% behind the number one spot, but a comfortable 6% above 3rd place. With the usage of the performance spaces to be for more than just students, there is an upcoming lineup of performances from local, national and international artists scheduled to take full advantage of the new facilities. It is hoped that the Eastside Jazz Club for example, will be in use every night of the week, with a licenced bar and table service available. Julian Lloyd Webber finished with a reveal of one facility that no other music college in the UK has; “The Wye Valley Brewery has created two bespoke Conservatoire ales, the bottled Principal’s Ale and the Conservatoire Ale, which is available on tap in the Conservatoire bar!”

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Page 6 - The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017

MIDNIGHT VIGIL WITH REVEREND ESTHER AJAYI

Setting The L Generation C

hen you first meet her, you will immediately be struck by her enigmatic energy, engaging persona and unique style. That’s not in any way arrogant; as the effervescent Reverend Mother Esther Abimbola Ajayi exhudes the kihd of confidence, both in her posture and alluring delivery of her each and every word. Founder and Senior Pastor of the Love of Christ Generation Church C&S (Cherubim and Seraphim)-The Glory of God Shines, in London, Rev. Mother Esther brought raptures from every corner of the packed church. Having recently celebrated their 10 Year Anniversary, you can see why people from all over the world want to be part of her, her church and her message.

“The Lord just wants us to be faithful,’ she said. “And the Holy Spirit will be our preacher and mentor.” Her energy, then, was remaining at the highest, and most excitable of levels throughout. “Never miss the purity of your heart,” she told all. During what was a very special midnight vigil, two extra special speakers made the mark on a memorable night of divine worship, deep reflection and bright forecasts. Bishop George Bloomer’s testimony proved deep, enigmatic and engaging as he told of his ‘Road to Damascus’ which had the audience compelled. He spoke of his lowest points, and how the Holy Spirit brought him from those times to where he is now. The best-selling author, pastor, renowned speaker, and

entrepreneur began fulfilling destiny’s call as a teen while ministering from his native home of Brooklyn, New York. Founder of, and pastor at, the Bethel Family Worship Centre in Durham, North Carolina, and author of the best-selling; ‘Gospel of Inference,’ said, at the service: “If people say they are a ‘Walking Bible,’ they must be God; because there’s always a new story to read. The Bible is never complete.” He is also founder of the G. G. Bloomer Ministries where he travels internationally delivering life-altering messages to equip the masses for personal growth and spiritual fulfilment. He drew an analogy by telling the story of Coca Cola’s dramatic worldwide dip, in sales and popularity, during the 1980s and then

The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017 - Page 7

MIDNIGHT VIGIL WITH REVEREND ESTHER AJAYI

Love of Christ Church Alight subsequent revamp and relaunch, having gone back to basics, “If it’s working for you – Work it,” he said. “If it ain’t broke don’t fix it. “Pepsi, at the time, was ‘coming up the rails.’ Owned by a Southern Baptist Minister who bought-out KFC, amongst other brands, just to be able to sell his product in them. “He had to do this to do that.” Having first met Reverend Esther in very spritual circumstances, he felt compelled to return to London and preach at her church. “Miracles always happen. And for me Rev Mother Esther is exactly that – A Miracle from God.” Continuing the high energy of a special night, he said: “there are people in here who are saved in the head, but not in the heart. God has anointed people to see my heart.

“2018 is our year for things to happen to us – in the name of God!” “I know who I am,” said second guest speaker, Bishop Ceirion ‘Cei’ Dewar. “God’s not moved by what he sees – but how you make him feel.” Welsh-born orator, equally ‘magical’ in his sermon, he heaped praise on the hostess: “Esther is the most unique woman in the eyes of the Lord. There is no-one who gives anywhere like her. “By the time God is finished, Reverend Mother Esther will be known all over the world. God needs ‘kingdompreneurs’ like her. Esther’s heart is as big as the world. “If you’re uncomfortable where you’re at, through the Reverend Mother God will make you comfortable where you are going. One of the most benevolent, caring, giving of souls,

the Reverend Mother Esther Abimbola Ajayi is God’s Child on a message to make all around her feel the benefits of His work. And, what was an uplifting experience for the mass hoards who attended this special midnight vigil, it proved a night that will never be forgotten – regardless of their individual faith. The Midnight Vigil in London finished at 4am, but those 4 hours went by in the blink of an eye, with prayer, song, and Reverend Esther’s signature style punctuating every moment of the night. A unique experience headed by a quite unique Mother of God, but don’t take our word for it, Reverend Esther will soon be spreading the Gospel in Birmingham and the West Midlands - watch this space!

Page 8 - The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017

NEWS

n 1987 the face of parliament changed with the election of Diane Abbott, Paul Boateng, Keith Vaz and Bernie Grant following the trade union and grassroots community response to the impact of Thatcherism in the 1980s around cuts to public services, the poll tax, the miners’ strike, institutionalised racism, stop and search and a growing race and class divide. Impacting following campaigns such as Anti-Apartheid, the neoliberal policies of the World Bank and the IMF, the implementation of anti-racism policies in local government and the success of Rock against Racism, together with a growing and powerful network of BAME councillors and council leaders, it was also the year when Black History Month was established in this country. Diane, Paul, Keith and the late Bernie, plus other MPs, along with the sole Black peer in the House of Lords, Lord David Pitt, helped to bring about a ‘Black Caucus’ with similarities to the Congressional Black Caucus in the US, for a unified cross-party approach on Black politics and social policy. "It was just us," said Diane, who is the MP for Hackney North and Stoke Newington. "For a long time you used to get stopped - 'Where are you going?' And I had to say, 'Well, actually, we are Members of Parliament.' And even some of our own party were slightly wary. There was a feeling in Parliament when we

l Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government Sajid Javid

30 Years On And Job Done?

in government today. Ms Abbott, still fighting the Labour cause as Shadow Home Secretary, leads the likes of Leicester East MP Vaz, David Lammy, Shadow Atternt General Shami Chakrabarti, Chuka Umunna, Chi Onwurah and Khalid Mahmood are just a few fighting the fight for

the opposition. Lib Dem’s Layla Moran (Oxford West & Abingdon) and the SNP’s Tasmina Ahmed-Sheikh also have seats in the Houses of Parliament. 1987 also saw the launch of Black History Month in the UK. Thirty years on…and job done?

l The late Bernie Grant, Paul Boateng, former Labour leader Neil Kinnock, Keith Vaz and Diane Abbott arrived that we would be like the 19th-Century Fenians and disrupt and cause problems and keep them up at night. I've always kept the faith. I'm in politics to be a voice for people who don't have a voice." Although, after the June general election, there are more than 51

BAME MPs, there is still a lack of representation of African and Caribbean communities, the Labour party not having selected any new Black male or any Turkish, Kurdish, Cypriot or Chines candidates for the election. Marvin Rees as Mayor of Bristol and Sadiq Khan in London are the

only two senior representation in regional government. Sajid Javid, Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, Secretary of State for International Development Priti Patel, Braintree MP James Cleverly and Wolverhampton South MP Paul Uppal are leading lights

l Diane Abbott as Shadow Home Secretary

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The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017 - Page 9

NEWS

Sturridge Signs For Nurishment L

iverpool and England footballer, Daniel Sturridge, has ‘signed’ for Nurishment in a three year partnership. Striker Sturridge, who has represented England at all levels, will be actively involved in marketing the nation’s favourite nutritionally enriched milk

drink. His first role will be to promote the Nurishment Filling Station, the brand’s first dedicated gaming app, launching currently, with the highest scorers getting the chance to play against him. “I’m really pleased to be promoting a drink that I’ve enjoyed for many years. I grew up with Nurishment and Strawberry’s my favourite fla-

l Grace Foods UK’s Head of Marketing Nyree Chambers with Liverpool and England star Daniel Sturridge

vour,” he said. “I also love gaming and the Nurishment Filling Station is a really cool game. So I’m challenging the nation’s gamers to beat my score and knock me off the top of the leader board. Game on!” Adam Reader, Managing Director of Grace Foods UK, said: “Daniel’s a role model for millions of people and his family values are aligned with ours. The fact that he’s grown

up with Nurishment will make our partnership even stronger.” Nyree Chambers, Grace Foods UK’s Head of Marketing, added: “We’re delighted to be partnering with Daniel, giving the nation’s gamers the chance to take on one of the nation’s most famous footballers. Daniel’s really up for the challenge but who, if anyone, can beat him?”

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Page 10 - The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017

EDUCATION, TRAINING AND RECRUITMENT - PROMOTING EXCELLENCE

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

The Joys of Reading… at 60!

W Eminent Professor Inspiring the Next Generation

l Delores Pinkney, Professor Morgan and Professor Herb Sewell minent scientist, Professor Owen St. Clair Morgan, was in the UK sharing his life experiences and also highlight to children and young people that, whatever your goals and aspirations are; there is no limit to what can be achieved. A Professor of Medicine and Neurology and former Dean of the Faculty of Medical Sciences at The University of the West Indies, clinical scientist, educator and administrator Dr Morgan, CD, MA, MD (Dublin), FRCP, FACP, returned to his alma maters; the University of Dublin, the University of Edinburgh, as well as touring Britain, talking of his experiences, including his contributions to medicine – worldwide. 58-year-old Jamaican Dr Morgan-he was born in the parish of Manchester-was at pains to let it be known that he wasn’t born with a ‘silver spoon’ in his mouth – it was shear will, determination and strong family structure which made the foundation for his success: “My father never felt he had the chance to further his education when he was young. ‘This is your time’ he told me back then. I became the first in my family to go to university. It was then that I became a man.” With his father’s words of en-

couragement, the young Morgan received his undergraduate training at Trinity College, The University of Dublin, Ireland, graduating with honours in 1963 – it’s worth noting that his father gained a seat at the Institute of Education, in London; at the age of 57. Covering areas include general medicine and neurology; Dr Morgan joined the staff of the UWI in 1970 and was named Professor of Medicine in 1984, becoming the first Jamaican to hold that position. He became Chair of the Department of Medicine from 1986-1998 and Dean of the Faculty of Medical Sciences from 1999-2005. Dr Morgan did research on Tropical Spastic Paraparesis (TSP) and helped to establish the link between it and HTLV1 (Human T lymphocytic virus type 1). He also examined the genetic aspects of dementia in Blacks people from Africa, the Caribbean and the USA, as well as the role of transcultural and environmental influences on the disorders. Proud of his heritage, Morgan said: “I am very Jamaican and proud to have trained in medicine at the prestigious Monroe College, in St Elizabeth, before studying at the University of the West Indies.” It was his time in Ireland,

though, which proved unforgettable; “I managed to get a seat at Dublin - just about – as I was one of the last to get one of the 10 scholarship available there for Black Caribbean and African students. “I had a fantastic time there – They even called me Paddy Morgan.” His first lecture at the University proved equally overwhelming: “My first lecture was by the prominent Nobel Prize winner, Ernest T.S. Walton who worked at the Cavendish Laboratory in Cambridge - where the atom bomb was first split. He supported me right through my time there” Also a prolific writer, Professor Morgan has published over 120 articles as book chapters and papers in related international journals and he has been honoured locally and internationally, receiving the Vice Chancellor’s Award for Excellence from the UWI, election to Fellowship of the Royal Colleges of Physicians of Edinburgh, London, Ireland as well as the American College of Physicians and the French Neurological Society. “If I could achieve what I have,” Professor Owen St. Clair Morgan says, “then any child can.”

hat is it like to read your first words? Florence Cheptoo turned her first page - as a 60-year-old. Florence, who lives in an isolated rural village near Chesongoch, in Kenya, has begun reading and lists the practical differences it has made in her life. What difference does it make after a lifetime of getting by without reading? If you think about how much written information we consume every hour - going through emails at work or flicking through messages on mobiles phone - it's hard to imagine being without these ways of communicating.

When she had been younger, there had been no support for her to become literate, she said. Her parents had wanted her to marry and to get a dowry and stay tending livestock - and there had never been a chance to learn. "My parents did not value the need for education," she said. It meant that she couldn't sign her name or read any legal documents or check if she was being cheated over payments. “I can read the information on medicine I am prescribed,” she said. “I can also now look at newspapers and find out about the outside world and take charge of my own personal records.” She say there are things that she

anza Azeemi who graduated from Lahore University of Management Sciences with a major in Economics (distinction) in 2013 has been awarded the Said Prize for ‘outstanding academic excellence and contribution to the MBA and wider Oxford community’ for the year 20162017 during the MBA end of Course ceremony held on September 9, 2017. This prestigious award was given to only one candidate in a batch of 328 students from 58 different countries and comes with a cash award. Kanza Azeemi, completed her Master’s in Business Administration from Saïd Business School and was a member of St. Hugh’s College at the University of Oxford, UK. The Dean of Saïd Business School, Peter Tufano announced Azeemi’s award in a prestigious end of course ceremony. He highlighted Azeemi’s position on the Dean’s Honour List (at both LUMS and Oxford) and as Co-Chair of the Women’s Leadership Oxford Business Network (which was the most active OBN of the year) as the key factors that distinguished her. He praised the multiple events that she had organised throughout the year that contributed positively to her peers’ MBA experience and mentioned that the school will ensure that the International Women’s Day activities that Azeemi has pioneered are organised annually. “I am honoured and humbled to be the recipient of the Saïd award. LUMS has an immense role to play in my achievements. I am proud that this award was given to the only Pakistani student in the class and as an alumna of both LUMS and Oxford, I am keen to work towards building a stronger relationship between the two institutions, particularly the business schools,” commented Azeemi on her achievement.

particularly enjoyed: reading storybooks for the first time, getting letters from her family and being able to read the Bible for herself. "I am able to identify what is good and bad in society," she added. Florence wasn't the oldest member of this adult literacy class. There was also a man in his 80s. His eyesight wasn't very good and he didn't really think he would become much of a reader - but he told the teachers that he wanted to be seen regularly at the class to send a message to the rest of the village that this was important. "There's something really special about a library,” Florence says.

Alumna Kanza Az receives the Said P at University of Ox

l Kanza Azeemi receiving the Said Prize.

The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017 - Page 11

EDUCATION, TRAINING AND RECRUITMENT - PROMOTING EXCELLENCE

Acknowledging 30 Years of Black History Month in the UK

l David Olusoga

ith its early origins devised by the celebrated historian Carter G.Woodson in 1926, at the height of Jim Crow laws and segregation in the USA, Black History Month in the UK has, itself, progressed to become a na-

zeemi Prize xford

tional celebration of its own - to remember the people who have contributed to a more equal and progressive British society, shaping history as it stands today; it is a legacy to learn from the past, live in the present, and build for the future. Margret Thatcher’s Tory

government in power and riots- by all nationalities - were rife throughout the UK. Black Britons was fighting for tolerance and acceptance, and against marginalisation, racism and also trying to define a sense of identity and purpose. Challenging the stereotypes of people of African descent, Black History Month in the UK was established in London, in 1987, to give a voice to people of the African Diaspora, especially at a time when racism and discrimination was so openly displayed, at its height – in many spheres of British society. There was also, at the time, a call on authorities to im-

plement their duties under the Race Relations Act 1976 and to intensify their support against apartheid. Today, people of Black origin are celebrated, by all, in many fields; from politics to sport, business to music as well as areas. But, for many, the work is far from done. “The history books, which have completely ignored the contribution of the Negro in history…” the late Dr Martin Luther King Jr said, “…have only served to intensify the Negroes’ sense of worthlessness and to augment the anachronistic doctrine of white supremacy.” Historian and broadcaster

David Olusoga, author of the book, ‘Black and British: A Forgotten History,’ said: “From the 16th century onwards, Britain exploded like a supernova, radiating its power and influence across the world. Black people were placed at the centre of that revolution. Our history, though, is a series of missing chapters from British history.” The last day of October marks the ‘end’ of Black History Month…For hardy followers, after 30 years, it starts on September 30. “Moving forward, we have to make sure that the history Black people are making today is heralded,” Olusoga said.

hocking research reveals 200,000 school children could lose access to breakfast at school due to slashed budgets and cuts. Worrying findings revealed 43 per cent of teachers say their school breakfast club will have to close in the next three years – including those that operate in the most deprived parts of the UK. In the report by Kellogg’s titled ‘The Future of School Breakfast Clubs: A Funding Crisis In The UK’ teachers were asked to list the reasons they fear their clubs will close: 86 per cent said school funding was the main reason. Troubled teachers also told how the new requirement for extra staffing in clubs (44 per cent) will make them more difficult to run. In a bid to keep the clubs open, a quarter of schools have redirected funds from other parts of the school budget such as school trips, making staff cuts and buying fewer classroom resources. Now some schools have also had to rely on donations from private companies, charities and parents. Worried teachers warned the closure of their breakfast club will lead to a rise in naughty behaviour in the classroom (34 per cent) and worsen attendance (33 per cent). More than a third of teachers surveyed from schools with breakfast clubs that have already closed down said they have since noticed a decline in exam

Children Could Lose School Breakfast - Teachers Warn results following the closure. John Coe from the National Association of Primary Education comments: “Breakfast clubs are at a critical point in their work and the overriding reason is that cuts to school funding over the next three years threaten the closing down of clubs which serve children and young people. The impact upon disadvantaged communities will be particularly severe. Teachers testify to the educational gains which stem from a healthy breakfast and the positive effect on school and fam-

ily life has been confirmed by the Department for Education. Policy makers should listen and then take decisive action to provide financial support.” Not only will schoolchildren be affected by these closures but working families will feel the impact also. More than a quarter of parents say the absence of a breakfast club would mean at least one parent would be forced out of work. Kellogg’s Managing Director, David Lawlor, said: “Great progress has been made since the 1990s to increase the num-

ber of schools offering pupils a safe and fun environment that provides a nutritious breakfast. “That’s why each year the Kellogg’s Breakfast Club Awards celebrate the fantastic people who make these clubs happen every day in schools up and down the country. But the future for these vital breakfast clubs is at risk. The challenge for schools, government and partners in private and third sectors is to ensure that we help to sustain as many preschool clubs as possible.”

Monthly views

with Tony Kelly

Should there be the need for Black History Month? October in Britain is designated and celebrated as Black History Month with the idea being that we all no matter what our ethnicity as a nation should embrace, value and respect it. One could argue that celebrate it is not an apt word to use as what is there to truly celebrate from a black perspective? Britain remains steeped in its past as an empire builder and has not fully taken on board how much that has impacted in a negative way on the historical underachievement and racial oppression of black people. This continues to happen in the 21st Century at various levels as many of the powers that be and by that I mean people in positions of power, influence and authority remain in denial. They continue to turn a blind eye, ignore the blatant and subtle forms of racial discrimination &racial victimisation and often help to perpetuate the evil of racism. It is as if black and minority ethnic people must be grateful for the crumbs that have fallen from the so called Master’s table. How often does one hear the cliché that a white person cannot be racist because ‘Some of my best friends are black’? That is known as situation specificity with people often forgetting the fact that racism is learned behaviour and part of the socialisation process. Not a single baby is born with a racist belief or ideology but some over time develop racist thoughts by indoctrination, miseducation and misinformation. That is a fact of life and cannot be disputed. The key issue is how does one change the entrenched pattern of behaviour or put another way how does one change the habit of a lifetime? This can only be done by unlearning, unpacking and unravelling the often ignorant views/ opinions that have shaped a person’s mindset. That is all the more reason for black history to be on the curriculum and syllabus of all schools from an early age. The words equality and diversity seem to trip off the tongues so often these days but they bear no semblance to the reality one sees in our society. The disaffected, marginalized, disadvantaged, victimised and downtrodden black people remain real in many quarters and there is no need to quote any statistics to support that fact. George Orwell’s novel Animal Farm where the essence that all people are equal but some are more equal than others readily springs to mind. One can long for Utopia where the need for a specific month set aside for Black History in Britain is no longer necessary as it should permeate throughout the entire year. Only when that is achieved will there be equity , fairness and a just society with no place anymore for any forms of racial discrimination, racial victimisation and racial oppression. Collectively we can all of whatever ethnicity strive for that goal as Britain would be a better place if we accomplished it. Until then Happy Black History Month.

Page 12 - The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017

SPOTLIGHT

‘The One’ and Only, Hector Shakes Making You Feel Good, All The Time

l Hector, centre right, with three of his children behind the counter at ‘The One’

ith extensive experience in facilitating fulfilling future prospects for children and young people, Hector Shakes’ almost singminded approach in creating a brighter tomorrow sees a new ‘string to his bow’ with the new ‘The One’ diner and takeaway. ‘The One’ not only provides succulently cooked Caribbean cuisine, but is also a base to provide the necessary training opportunities for the next generation of cooks and chefs with the all-round capability of keeping alive the relevant know-how and skills. After undergoing his ‘Reach One-Teach One’ C.I.C., ‘The

One’ Takeaway, at Aston train station, in Birmingham, is a continuation of his single-minded ethos of being ‘The One.’ “Food is the star of life,” says 40-year-old Hector, “and, as I am the best cook when it comes to Caribbean cuisine, I am determined to share my expertise with as many people as possible. “It’s about ‘passing on the baton’ and making sure that such great food can be appreciated in years to come. “After Reach One-Teach One, I have always pushed to open a take-away because so many people love my food – and so many more want to cook like me.” A father of 11, Shakes, from Spanish Town, in Jamaica, is

l Just one of the mouth-watering dishes available at ‘The One’

making sure that all his children have the basic mechanics of cooking food as they prepare for their own futures. In addition to providing the best-tasting Caribbean food in the area, Hector is also opening his kitchen allowing young people to learn all they can and keep ‘rice ‘n’ peas, jerk chicken, ackee and saltfish et al alive, kicking and eaten in their droves for generations to come. Furthermore, he is also looking to franchise out ‘The One’ name brand, not only in food, but music, sports and educational programmes, just so that every child and young person he comes across feels exactly like that... ‘The One!’

The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017 - Page 13

NEWS

B.E.M. Recognition for Local Bhangra Legend, King G Mall

n his continuing efforts to bringing the music genre to a worldwide audience, Gurcharan Jit Mall received further recognition when he was awarded the B.E.M. (British Empire Medal) for his services both at home and abroad. Affectionately known as King G. Mall, the founder of Nachdey Hasdey, Nachda Sansaar, Hard Kaur, Dhol Blasters, Bhangra Blasters &

Band Baja and founder/member of Apna Sangeet was presented with the medal, for promoting British Asian music and Performing Arts, by His Royal Highness The Duke of Gloucester and Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of West Midlands John Crabtree OBE at Birmingham Council House. Also present was: The High Sheriff, The Lord Mayors of Birmingham & Coventry, The Mayors of Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull &

Walsall also Several Deputy Lieutenants was present too; “I always say ‘let music build a bridge and let dance help you cross it’,” King G mused. Having being a key part of the birth of Bhangra music industry in the western world and having given his soul to the movement, Gurcharan, from the village of Hakimpur, in India, has elevated himself to be chair & Artistic Director of Punjabi Mu-

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sic Dance Academy and Music Builds Bridges, has been teaching Bhangra dance & Dhol drum in schools, colleges, universities and other places of learning for over 40 years now and has done for the dhol what Ustad Zakir Hussain did for the tabla and Pandit Ravi Shankar did for the sitar. Gurcharan ‘King G’ Mall B.E.M., banging the ‘dhol’ drum for Bhangra music.

Page 14 - The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017

WOMEN OF EXCELLENCE

Grace is Sturr-ing it up in the Kitchen! T here is someone causing a massive ‘Sturr’ in the world of food, and it’s a name that you may already be familiar with. Grace Sturridge, mother of Liverpool and England star striker Daniel, has been working hard for the best part of 10 years to perfect a family-loved recipe and bring it to the masses. Born and raised in the Hockley area of Birmingham and part of a family of 10, Grace attended Farm Street School, Ladywood and eventually Holte, where she met her husband Michael at the tender age of 14, and are still together to this day. Grace didn’t always want to go into a food-related career, despite having a brilliant upbringing in and around the kitchen, as the whole family chipped in and learnt to cook from a young age. Originally intending to train as a pharmacist, things didn’t work out for Grace and she became a hairdresser, which she did for 14 years before leaving the industry and going into teaching. “I had 3 children at this point, the youngest of the three is Daniel, and I used to help out in his Nursery, where they told me I was really good at the job so I should go and do my training, so I went and did my BTec and landed a job at my sister-in-law’s school, St Mary’s. “I used to travel from Cheshire to Birmingham every day, 6:09 train in the morning, get to Birmingham and do my dues.” Another 14 year stint later, it was only when Daniel got his big break when he signed for Chelsea, that he

told his mum that she couldn’t continue doing that anymore, so she handed in her notice and moved on. The journey to making the Sturr Crazy sauces began at family gatherings and parties for Wedding Anniversaries, Birthdays, and New Years Eve parties among others. “We used to have the Jerk Pan running, nice food, with family and friends round. I started off making the one flavour, Smoky BBQ to put on Jerk Chicken. When you go into a store you see all these sauces on the shelf, and you think I’ll try this one or this one, but I never found one whose flavours I really wanted to add to the end product of Jerk Chicken.” After blending together fresh and dry ingredients in her kitchen at home, the Smoky BBQ sauce was created. “Whenever there was a gathering, it would be “Don’t forget my sauce mum!” eventually people said that I needed to get it into the supermarkets, because it’s nicer than anything

on the market.” Sturr Crazy sauces are super versatile, whether you use them as a marinade, cooking sauce or table sauce as a dip, and with 2 flavours heading to supermarket shelves near you hopefully as early as the beginning of 2018, and another 2 already ready and raring to go, tastebuds up and down the country are in for a real treat. With a potential supermarket already very keen, there are some final changes to bottle sizes and labelling, but if the recent venture at Birmingham’s Jamaica In The Square was anything to go by, people already can’t get enough of the sauce. “Daniel was at the Sturr Crazy Kitchen stall on the Sunday, but for the Friday and Saturday people were asking me where they can buy the sauce, but I didn’t have any ready made with us, although I had a load in massive bottles that we’d been using for the chicken itself on the days. “So here we were, in a hotel room

The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017 - Page 15

WOMEN OF EXCELLENCE

on the Saturday night like a little conveyor belt, me filling up the bottles, and Michael putting the labels on! We bottled 70 bottles of sauce that night, and the following day we sold 69 of them in two hours.” “It was a nice experience taking part in the 55th Celebrations, launching and making people more aware of the sauces. Daniel has a lot of followers, but not many have had a chance to try it, so it was great for us to be able to cook some food and get it out there.” The two sauces that are on their way to shelves are Smoky BBQ, and Smoky BBQ with a Twist – and the twist is mint, it brings out all the authentic spices even more. Outside of Sturr Crazy, Grace is part of the Sturridge Foundation, going to Jamaica for the last 4 years and giving back to their heritage. With a massive free fun day for children, including sports, a fun fair and also a concert with 10-15 Jamaican artists performing into the early hours.

The foundation has also donated funds and equipment to schools in the community, and have sponsored children from poorer backgrounds to be able to attend school. Although the short term goal is getting the sauces to the public, Grace isn’t stopping there, with her eyes on a possible range of ready meals and cookware. “Having Sturr Crazy in your cupboard it will make your mealtimes so effortless, marinade it overnight, bung it in the oven, 20 minutes job done!” With Sturr Crazy being very much a family affair, it is by no means the only family business. With Michael, Grace’s husband as son Daniel’s manager, he takes care of the off the park stuff for him, as well as also running the Sturridge Academy in Woking with son Leon, giving opportunities for education doing BTEC courses while training in football and playing in a league, as well as the Sturridge Agency with Dean, with a number of

players on the books. Throughout everything Grace has done, she has lived by one code, “If you have something in mind, follow your dreams. Don’t let any obstacle stand in your way, focus on your dreams and what you want to achieve from it, and God Willing, he will open the doors for you, because without God in everything you’re doing in life, anything is possible when he is part of the plan. “Ask for the wisdom and desire and whatever you want to achieve keep at it, no matter how long it takes, never give up the fight.”

Page 16 - The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017

BUSINESS AND FINANCE

Royal Opening of 92 year old Midlands Engine Success

espite the downpour that preceeded HRH The Duke of Kent’s arrival, nothing could dampen the spirits of the management team and staff at A Perry & Co (Hinges) Ltd on Thursday, 21 September 2017. His Royal Highness The Duke of Kent officially opened the new modern 100,000 sq ft warehouse and manufacturing facilities in Cradley Heath, where the company has been established for the last 92 years. Boasting prestigious clients including Buckingham Palace, Wembley Stadium, HS2, Aardman Animations, and supplying the studios that created Star Wars, Harry Potter and Doctor Who, A Perry & Co has a rich and varied history. The opening of this new warehouse and manufacturing facility comes on the back of £4 mil-

lion investment by the family owned, independent business which recently signed a licensing agreement with Aardmann Animations to design and create a Shaun the Sheep sculpture in conjunction with the Studios. The company was established in 1925 by Arthur Perry, grandfather and great-grandfather to the current third and fourth-generation family members who own and run the business. Guy Perry, group managing director, who joined the family firm in 1981, says, “While other companies within the industry are retracting or standing still, Perry is continuing to offer fulltime employment and apprenticeships to local people.” “Employment is very important to us, we’ve always tried to employ from the local community, even employing whole families. We’re a family, and we’ve brought these other fam-

ilies in and they’ve done 50 odd years with us, which is unheard of these days.” Ian Dunnaker, Sales Director continued, “Hardware and Ironmongery is still the foundation of our business, and we will never lose focus of that, but we’re venturing into the equestrian market as well as the garden ornament market, where we are completely unknown.” “Ideas coming from new generations of the family are pushing the business forward, and

British Textiles Manufacturing: the Ethnic Dimension

n September 6 last, Community Education Academy of Leadership (CEAL), officially launched the Legacy of Industrial Textiles Enterprise (LITE) Project in the West Midlands, the purpose of which, is to celebrate over half a century of contribution to textiles manufacturing by people of African, Caribbean and South Asian descent. Is this commendable gesture a mere symbol? Or does it represents a fair account of this country’s industrial diversity? Over the next year or so, events and other activities held in the Midlands, would attempt to showcase aspects of this unwritten heritage. The history of textiles is often seen through the lens of anecdotal

or personal and media-inspired ‘stories’ that have been influenced in part, by epochal trends such as the economic recession during the 19th and the mid to late 20th centuries respectively. Yet there is little evidence pointing to the unique contribution migrants made, and are still making, to the textiles trade and its associated industries.

The African Axis

The British textiles to West Africa was pursued from the 1870s onwards, during Britain’s heyday as a ‘dominant maritime trading force’. African consumers were discerning, with well-defined tastes and they appreciated innovation. In 2016, it was reported that The National Archives “holds a large number of textile designs intended

these fresh ideas are what will propel us further.” Perry has a history of delivering quality. Starting in 1925 by manufacturing gutter brackets, hinges and fixings, Perry went on to manufacture and supply components for World War II ammunition boxes, Lancaster bombers and more recently Harrier jump jet landing pads. Threaded bar from Perry were used in the construction of Watford Football Ground, the new Wembley Stadium and during the early development stages of HS2. “Even through the uncertainty that Brexit brought, it doesn’t meant that local companies can’t succeed,” explained Ian, “but with the support of the whole workforce and a single vision we can succeed in these uncertain times.”

for export to West Africa. Strikingly fresh and vibrant, they form an unexpected contrast with the Victorian and Edwardian patterns around them” It was further stated that these textiles were registered for copyright under a series of Acts of Parliament from 1839 onwards. The textile samples, pasted into huge leather-bound volumes, and later stored away in archival boxes, were submitted as part of the copyright application process. Significantly, these samples were an invaluable resource for researchers, in their attempt to understand “the textile trade with West Africa”. Noteworthy, the Charles Beving Collection forms one of the earliest documented and most important collections of the 19th and early 20th century. Today, there are many questions for instance, as to whether the African contribution to textiles, also helped to create what has been described as a ‘European-African aesthetic’ which became integrated into African design culture? And to what extent, this synergy is now integral to the British fashion or apparel industry.

The Caribbean Phenomenon

In so far as migrants from this South American region were concerned, textiles were commonplace although this trade is filled within its own folklore. English middle-class women formed Dorcas Societies (that were church-led) to create textiles, with finished products that were distributed to the poor in parishes. As part of their Christian mission, these organisations were sent to teach Caribbean women textiles without little regard for their intimate knowledge and skills of this craft. Elders in the region, were known to have passed down this tradition and more, to their daughters and granddaughters, for the most part. By the 1950s, these clubs brought together Caribbean women, using textiles to act as networks for social and economic change. When they emigrated to the UK in the 1950s and 1960s, the clubs moved with them, thereby contributing hugely to diversity in the British textiles” Since that period to the present, whilst few Caribbean women may not have worked as employees in textile factories, others were sales staff in clothing shops and used the

opportunity to develop customised fabric designs.

The South Asian Connection

In recent times, there have been discussions on the presence of South Asian women especially, in the British textiles industry. However, missing from this narrative, has been the economic and social impact of the contribution of men and women (as employers and employees respectively) to this age-old enterprise. Even more puzzling, is the lack of a proper context within which this ethnic group’s relationship with textiles, was pivotal to Britain’s post-Industrial Revolution era. Cotton or silk, dyes, teas, spices and other tropical products, were a trading feature between Britain and the Indian-sub-continent prior to Partition (in 1947). South Asian textiles showcased at numerous exhibitions from the Victorian period, illustrate versatility in the range of fashion with intricate and interwoven designs that all reflect artistry and creativity. The UK market for clothing is worth more than £40 billion per annum, with nearly 10% of total consumer spending on this trade, according to estimates. With industrial manufacturing

w a r d - w i n n i n g journalist, editor and publisher Dr Christopher Johnson writes his monthly column in The Phoenix aiming to inform, educate and entertain.

slowly emerging in UK, chronicling the endeavours of minorities to textiles heritage, is very timely. However, this trend requires greater coverage or inclusion in wider media circles, books, journals, other periodicals, along with touring exhibitions, fairs and other similar ventures. Let us therefore hope that CEAL’s move towards recapture this unsung, unrecorded and unknown heritage, will also inspire policy and decision makers and the rest of society, to recognise the inestimable contribution migrants have been making to Britain’s industrial heritage at least, since the 19th century.

The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017 - Page 17

OCTOBER 2017

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EVENTS BHM ● re tu Fu ● R U TO PLUS: TLC DOES UK And more! ● Y E TL N E B R FO G N LI STIVE GIFT FAIR ● BREIT

Page 18 - The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017

ENTERTAINMENT

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Chris Eubank's One Man Show Rolls into Town

oxing legend, Chris Eubank will be packing a punch of a different kind when he brings his One Man Show to Wolverhampton this autumn.

Editors note It’s a wild one once again in what was an action packed September! We’ve got news from everywhere, including some very special tour announcements, impressive fragrance launches, the return of an iconic girl band and much more. As we’re heading into October, are you all figuring out what you want to be for

The former WBO middleweight and super-middleweight champion whose career spanned from 1985 to 1998 will be giving his fans an ‘up close and personal’ insight into his life, career and those epic battles with ring nemesis Nigel Benn and Steve Collins.

Halloween? I’m expecting a lot of toilet paper wrapped mummies from some of you lazier party goers, but there are always those that go the extra mile, and respect to you for that. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for more information and watch out on YouTube for more amazing video content soon!

Through Metropolis Music, 51-year-old Chris, who hails from Dulwich, in London, and ranked by boxing website BoxRec as the third best British super-middleweight boxer of all time, will host his One Man Show event as he speaks direct to fans when he visits Wulfrun Hall on November 30.

High Flying Birds to Roost in Brum Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds Tour is here yes he is back with a third album which is the follow up to the platinum selling Chasing Yesterday Will it be as good as yesterday? Lets see. Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds are coming to Arena Birmingham on 1 May 2018,

FUTURE ANNOUNCES FULL UK DATES!!! OCTOBER Friday 20th Academy Manchester Sunday 22nd O2 Academy Birmingham Monday 23rd O2 Arena London Setting the pace and changing the game with every subsequent album.

The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017 - Page 19

ENTERTAINMENT

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TLC ANNOUNCE THEIR FIRST EVER UK TOUR

ollowing their joyouscomeback show in London, the iconic girl-group TLC have just announced their first ever UK tour for Autumn 2017. Performing live with a full band, horn section, dancers and choir to an ecstatic audience, the big R&B group are back with a brand new album titled ‘TLC’ which has been as the opening lyric of their first single release from the album ‘Way Back’ suggests - “a long, long time coming.” This is the sound of a band not only reflecting on their sometimes-turbulent roots but also facing forwards, towards a bright future...though their past is truly ground-breaking. Having sold over 65 million records worldwide, TLC are not only the best-selling American girl group of all time; with 4 Grammy Awards, 4 multi-platinum albums, ten Top 10 singles and four Number 1s, theirs is an influence across music, fashion and female friendship - which defined and continues to define generations. Get ready for real R&B and that flavour we have missed from the 90's. If you want this sound nobody can do it better. The classics that they will bring to the table are definately to ge excited about.

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Back to Africa Roots Tour

atch the new generation of Reggae Roots artists - Randy Valentine, J Boog, Sevana & Black Am I, as they explore the music based journey Back To Africa. As reggae enjoys a fresh renaissance with a spiritual and roots theme, this tour brings together artists from Jamaica, UK and Hawaii for a night of positivity, love and good vibes. Based in the UK, Randy Valentine has garnered a strong following across Europe with his quality writing and superb deliv-

ery. Grammy Nominated J Boog has recently completed touring with Morgan heritage, and his album "Wash House Ting" has seen him elevated to the reggae elite. Sevana is part of the impressive camp which includes Protoje and producer Winta James and was one of the vocalists on Protoje's hit "Sudden Flight" Part of Damian Marley's team, Black Am I is one of the leading lights in the new roots movement, who has worked alongside Damian for the last four years.

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Page 20 - The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017

ENTERTAINMENT

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The Festive Gift Fair Returns To The NEC!

he Festive Gift Fair, the fabulous Christmas Shopping Fair is coming back to the NEC in Birmingham from the 16-19th Noveber with even more new and exciting stalls than ever! Christmas means gifts for your loved ones, hanging decorations on the tree, excitement on children’s faces, party games, movies by the fire and a table fit for a festive feast…! Often the most time-consuming part is finding clever presents. There’s no need to be stuck for ideas, start with a trip to the Festive Gift Fair and you’ll see how fun and easy Christmas shopping can be! From the moment you arrive, you’ll be caught up in the excitement of the day, exploring 350 stalls overflowing with thousands upon thousands of cracking gift ideas and decorations that don’t cost the earth. The variety is HUGE, with presents for all ages – from babies to teenagers, and parents to grandparents. When your bags are full, you

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can drop them off at the Present crèche and continue to shop, or stop for a bite to eat in one of the four sparkly catering/entertainment areas, where you can enjoy watching a great line-up of live musical acts – to get you rocking round the Christmas Tree! No wonder The Festive Gift Fair is one of the most popular

Christmas shopping events in the UK! We’ve teamed up with the Festive Gift Fair to give away 10 pairs of tickets to the event to our lucky readers. For your chance to win a pair, get your Christmas brain into gear and answer the question in the box below via email!

COMPETITION

For your chance to win one of 10 pairs of tickets to The Festive Gift Fair at the NEC Birmingham, just answer this simple question!

Which Famous Reindeer had a very shiny nose? a) Prancer b) Blitzen c) Rudolph Just email your answer, with your name, address and contact number to competitions@thephoenixnewspaper.com with the subject “Festive Gift Fair Competition”. Competition closes at 23.59 on 3rd November 2017. There is no cash alternative.

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The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017 - Page 21

ENTERTAINMENT

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A Rose Between Thorns

l Dr Saroj ‘Rose’ Duggal

don’t really know why I’m writing this, but I hope that you will be able to help me. Me and my girlfriend moved to University at the beginning of the month. I’d like to say this was a great thing and everything was brilliant, but she is in Bournemouth and I’m in St Andrews, pretty much as far apart as you can get! We’ve been together for 2 years now, and everything seemed fine before we left for Uni but now she is very distant and seems like she doesn’t care about me or the relationship anymore. What can I do to make her know that I still love her despite the distance and that I want to make things work between us. I had even considered proposing to her before we went to Uni, so that we had that bond and connection when we left. She’s on a male-dominated course, Computer Science and is one of the only girls in a class of over 50. I’m not the jealous type, I trust her more than anything, but how she is acting is starting to worry me. What I can do? ~Jamal, Bourneville Dear Jamal, Long distance relationships are difficult at the best of times, and for young love, especially through all the stresses and strains of university, sometimes it can be the kiss of death for a relationship. Unless you fight for it for all the right reasons, you may see this slip away. I’m glad you never got to proposing before you left as I think it may have done more harm than good. Let her know how you feel, and try to schedule regular video calls so that you can maintain a face to face relationship as much as possible. Good luck, both with your girlfriend and your first year at Uni! Don’t forget you can contact me by emailing your queries in to rose@thephoenixnewspaper. com. I look forward to hearing from you!

hen their headquarters are destroyed and their entire network decimated in a single horrifying blow, the surviving members of the Kingsman must seek aid from an allied spy organisation located in The United States of America, known as the Statesman. Together, these two elite organisations must join forces to fight a ruthless enemy who has the lives of millions of people in their hands. If you thought Kingsman: The Secret Service was unapologetic for its wildly over-the-top and brilliantly ridiculous riff on 007 movies, then to quote Samuel L Jackson's character from Jurassic Park, "hold on to your butts" because it's about to get a whole lot more ridiculous. The Golden Circle takes the over-the-top approach of the original, multiplies it, feeds it some mind altering drugs and then multiplies it a few more times, resulting in unprecedented levels of absurdity. There's a quirky villain with the impossibly enormous hideout, insane gadgets, genetically modified henchmen, robot guard dogs, physics-defying escapades on a mountain range and...Elton John.

BIRMINGHAM O2 ACADEMY

October 01 Lorde 04 Pretty Vicious 04 The Strypes 05 Papa Roach: Crooked Teeth Tour 07 Mo Gilligan 07 Definitely Mightbe 08 Dru Hill 10 Flyte 11 DragonForce 12 Jehst 12 Brother Strut 14 Dua Lipa 19 Collie Buddz 20 Dizzee Rascal 21 Train 22 Bars and Melody 23 London Grammar 26 Jake Clemons 27 Weezer 28 Black Rebel Motorcycle Club

Yes, the actual Elton John. And not just in a brief cameo - he's actually pretty integral to the plot and yes, it's every bit as ludicrous as it sounds. It's all utter nonsense but, much like the original, it knows exactly what kind of movie it is and doesn't try to be anything else. In fact, The Golden Circle basks in its total preposterousness and takes pride in being the silliest blockbuster of the year and for that, if nothing else, it kind of commands respect. The plot is not unlike the first movie, in which an impossibly rich and eccentric villain has been distributing a seemingly harmless product across the globe with Earth shattering ulterior motives. So, it's hardly original, but aside from the villainous story-arc, The Golden Circle is a very different movie, preventing it from feeling like a carbon-copy retread of its predecessor. The returning cast members are great, with Mark Strong in particular working his way in to your heart with his charming wit and dead-pan humour. Taron Egerton remains fun and likeable as the loveable rogue Eggsy and he's also given some welcome and surprising character development here, making Eggsy a lot more well-rounded

O2 INSTITUTE

October 02 Kip Moore 04 Mabel 06 Tom Grennan 07 JP Cooper 08 Jessie J 09 Nick Mulvey 11 Gary Numan 13 Melvins 13 Lethal Bizzle 15 James TW 18 Seether 21 Charlie Sloth 23 Over Atlantic 25 Dodie 26 Sleaford Mods 27 Tom Zanetti & K.O Kane 28 Bugzy Malone 30 Konvict Kartel with Akon

NEC

October 04-08 Horse of the Year Show 11-15 Grand Designs Live Birmingham 13-14 The National Franchise

than he was before and, of course, if you've seen the trailers then you'll know that Colin Firth is also back, even though he took a bullet to the head in the original. But inexplicably bringing a dead guy back to life is probably the seventh most ridiculous thing that happens in Kingsman: The Golden Circle, so the convoluted explanation behind his resurrection won't even seem like an issue in the grand scheme of things. However, why they chose to reveal his return in the promotional material is baffling, because in the film itself, the reveal is played for shocks, but it's the least shocking shock of all time because the whole world already knew Firth was back. It's very odd. Anyway, we are also introduced to the Kingsman's allies from across the pond known as the Statesman, who are comprised of a whole array of A-list megastars. There's Jeff Bridges, Halle Berry, Julianne Moore and everybody's favourite stripper-turnedactor, Channing Tatum. While they're all very welcome additions to the cast and impact the plot in varying ways, none of them are in it anywhere near as much as the promotional material would have you believe, so if you're only going because you're

Exhibition 17-22 The Motorhome and Caravan Show 2017 21-22 DIVE 2017 26-29 BRICKLIVE Birmingham 27-29 The Vaper Expo – The Return 2017 28 GCCF Supreme Cat Show

ARENA BIRMINGHAM October 07 I Love The 90’s 09 Lady Antebellum 12 Impractical Jokers 13 Neil Diamond 14 J. Cole 18-29 Disney On Ice presents Passport to Adventure

GENTING ARENA October 13 Little Mix 14 Legends Live 15 Neil Diamond 22-23 BPM | PRO 2017 25 Emeli Sandé

wORDS by antony brown

in love with Channing Tatum and his chiselled torso, you may feel a little betrayed. Pedro Pascal, whom you may know as Oberyn Martell in Game of Thrones or Javier Peña in Narcos, is quite easily the best new addition to the cast as a Statesman agent with the code name "Whiskey". He's funny, he's charming, he's loud, he's brash, he's obnoxious - he's the stereotypical Southern American with a twang in his voice and a crook in his brow; oh and he's highly skilled with his super high-tech lasso that essentially acts as a Lightsaber, resulting in some fantastic action sequences. Matthew Vaughn (Kingsman: The Secret Service, Kickass) returns to the director's chair and brings his trademark, imaginative and frenetic action with him. Oftentimes, you'll be left wondering how they actually achieved certain set pieces and you'll be debating with yourself whether it was a stunt team, CGI, a combination of both or some new fangled approach we aren't familiar with yet. Either way, if you're judging Kingsman: The Golden Circle on action alone, then it's great. Unfortunately, we aren't, and there are some missteps along the way. First of all, the pacing is bizarre. At 2 hours and 21 minutes, The Golden Circle should have more than enough time to tell its relatively simple story, yet you constantly feel like you're being

28-29 HelloWorld 30 Metallica

TOWN HALL & SYMPHONY HALL

October 04 Empirical(SH) 05 Justin Hayward (TH) 06-07 SQUEEZE plus special guests 9 Below Zero (SH) 07 Tubular Bells For Two (TH) 08 Beverley Knight (SH) 09-10 Greg Davies (SH) 10 Basel Symphony Orchestra Beethoven’s Seventh (TH) 11 At Home With Joe Lycett & Jess Phillips MP (TH) 13-14 Henning Wehn (TH) 13 The Musical Box - The Black Show (SH) 15 The Pretenders (SH) 15 Simon Amstell (TH) 16 Michael Kiwanuka (SH) 16 Shane Filan (TH) 17 Marc Almonf (SH) 21 John Mayall (TH)

rushed from one place to the next and sometimes, it's just for a throwaway gag and then we're rushing off somewhere else. In itself, this issue isn't enough to ruin the film, however, when so much time is wasted on proceedings that aren't integral to the plot, it's difficult not to feel let down when they could have used that time to breathe more life in to their characters. There are a lot of missed opportunities in The Golden Circle and almost all of them are on an emotional level, with the aforementioned pacing problems contributing to them. Without venturing too far in to spoiler territory, some very serious things happen in The Golden Circle, sometimes to characters we care about, but the movie is in such a rush to get where it wants to go that these events never have time to marinade with the audience before it's off to the next fun set piece or silly joke. One may argue that the Kingsman series isn't designed for emotional investment, but you could also argue that making us care more about the characters and events transpiring on screen has never made a film worse. Kingsman: The Golden Circle is bigger, louder, more spectacular and a whole lot sillier than its predecessor...but it isn't better. It falls short of surpassing the original, but sequels rarely do, and the most you can hope for is a solid follow up that retains everything you loved about the original, while building and expanding upon the already established world, and The Golden Circle more than delivers in that department.

22 2017 PCA Midlands (TH) 22 Myths and Legends (SH) 28 Sean Kelly & The Stars of Storage Hunters 31 Halloween Silent Movie Special

SLADE ROOMS, WOLVERHAMPTON

October 06 Arcane Roots 07 Rebecca Downes 08 Andy McKee 10 Amber Run 13 Broken Witt Rebels 14 Kirvana & Pearl Scam 19 Frank Iero & The Patience 20 Cabbage 21 Hostile Plus Ram & Disarm Goliath 22 Andrew Lawrence: Happy Accident Tour 23 Francesca Martinez 26 Liam Fray 27 The Professionals 28 Ginger Wildhearts Halloween Hootenanny IV

Page 22 - The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017

ENTERTAINMENT

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NEC Group International to Invest in New Bradford Odeon

t’s been announced that NECGI (the NEC Group International) has been chosen as the operating partner for the Bradford Odeon. Bradford Live announced that the NEC Group, which runs the UK’s largest conference and exhibition centre and two of the country’s busiest arenas, will take a 30-year lease on the building and invest £2m towards the conversion costs. NECGI has exciting plans to use the building to its full poten-

tial, bringing live music, comedy, Bollywood shows, and other live performances to the biggest ‘midsize’ venue in the country outside London and putting Bradford firmly back on the national live music touring circuit. Alongside the city’s existing arts and entertainment venues, the Odeon will help to secure an enviable cultural offer for Bradford’s residents and visitors. The plan to re-open the building as a music venue has been welcomed by some of the country’s

top bands. The Kaiser Chiefs said: “We’ve played a lot of great old theatre venues. Beautiful old buildings are perfect for rock ‘n’ roll shows – it can make a real difference performing in these characterful rooms compared to plain black box type venues. “The Bradford Odeon would make a brilliant venue for the north, especially as there isn’t a room of that size in either Leeds or Bradford. It’d be a regular on the touring circuit.”

Lethal Bizzle Dench Fragra Launch

The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017 - Page 23

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e Stay rance T

he master of grime hits and comical youtube videos has always been a smart businessman. In this country Lethal Bizzle as he says himself has been the most successful act in the urban music scene and admits to making millions off the grime genre. His hit song Pow that was released 16 years ago is still the track that gets the party lively and even had Jay Z spit a verse on the beat at one of his concerts. Did you forget that he also secured a massive contract with KFC and even has Dame Judy doing the Pow Skank. Bizzles success is second to none and lately his Dench clothing brand is now a fragrance. It seems that he is taking this brand very serious and not only he

is but other major celebrities are too. No-one has quite done it like Lethal and must say he is really ahead in the game right now. Here are pics from his Stay Dench Fragrance launch party attended by Skepta Chipmunk Lisa Maffia of So Solid to name but a few.. This guy is ready to take it to those Diddy levels of business. Pics courtesy of foxberryboys.co.uk - Foxberry Boys is an urban collection of contemporary snapbacks. providing a made to order service which includes stand out seasonal and limited edition pieces underpinned by their core classics. Look out for a feature on Foxberry Boys in the next edition!

affiyah Khan’s photograph went viral worldwide this year and put Birmingham’s record of authentic diverse communities in the spotlight. Now Punch Records presents Saffiyah Khan's own photographs for the first time, documenting young South Asian people coming together with others in the heart of the city. Punch commissioned Saffiyah Khan to document its Desi Moves summer music programme; showcasing young people on a journey that began in youth centres and ended on stage at the Birmingham Mela with audiences reaching up to 40,000 per day . Desibition is a witness to the vibrant street-level culture of South Asian young people in Birmingham’s inner-city wards and how south Asian youth want to make and present music Saffiyah Khan said “Youth engagement is so important. I worked with Punch Records over ten weeks making this photo documentary. Desi Moves gave a platform to young talent. It's super-important that young voices are heard.” Ammo Talwar MBE, CEO of Punch Records, said "Punch is committed to continuing to support new Brit Asian audiences. These photographs by Saffiyah Khan highlight the passion and potential of young artists from these communities. ”

ENTERTAINMENT

Saffiyah Khan Launches Her First Solo Exhibition Desi Moves was also a key element of UTSAV - Birmingham’s year of South Asian culture, and part of the response to the closure of The Drum - the arts venue which served these inner-city communities. The launches will take place at: Concord Youth Centre 5-7pm Sparkbrook, B11 1LF on Wednes-

day 4th October. Lighthouse Centre 6-8pm Aston, B19 2LN on Thursday 5th October. All are welcome to check out the exhibition throughout the month of October during Black History Month.

Page 24 - The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017

SPOTLIGHT

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Ackee Tree Still Standing Firm

hey come and they go, on the great metropolis that is Slade Road, but, as long as the food is of the highest, uniquely delicious standards it sets out to be, then Ackee Tree Cuisine Caribbean Takeaway will remain supreme in the world of diners and takeaways. Up against a plethora of likewise businesses – of varying cultural tastes – on the ever-busy thoroughfare, in Erdington, in Birmingham, after 7-years still standing supreme, you still have to go far and wide to get anywhere near equalling this particular eatery. Proprietor, Everton ‘Bubbles’ Taylor remains on top of his game, in this field and, with the constant stream of customers there-and always growing-it’s recommended that you too treat your tastes buds to some of the best food you are unlikely to find elsewhere. From his succulently sweet-tasting rice & peas and jerk chicken – a customer favourite – ackee

& salt fish, salmon, or escoveitched, washed down with his special blend of Guinness punch, or ‘sexy,’ once you’ve been there, you’ll be a regular for ever. “After all these years I’m still

passionate about my food,” said the ever-energenic Taylor. “The reason I’m still here, whilst others fall, is that everything at Ackee Tree Cuisine is geared around great taste and friendly customer service. Once you keep those at the highest standard, you’ll always go a long way. That’s why no-one can doubt my food.” “The food at Ackee Tree is fantastic,” one customer endorses. “I come from all the way from Tamworth, in Staffordshire, and am never disappointed. The service is with a smile and now I make sure I get my Caribbean food from there as often as possible.” “Big respect to Caribbean food,” says Bubbles. “And ‘Big Respect’ to people like the legendary Bing who set the bench-mark for great food from the islands for as long as he has. His longevity is proof that there’s a great ‘want’ out there, as I am proving here.”

The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017 - Page 25

ENTERTAINMENT

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Gareth launches GIANT panto in Wolverhampton!

o l v e r hampton G r a n d Theatre launched a GIANT of a pantomime at Dudley Zoological Gardens with leading man Gareth Gates. The pop-star and musical theatre favourite will be taking the title role in Jack And The Beanstalk which also stars Lisa Riley, Doreen Tipton, Graham Cole, Ian Adams and Adam C Booth at the Grand Theatre from 9

‘Atlanta’ Glover Makes Emmy History

December 2017 – 14 January 2018. Gareth Gates rose to stardom in 2002 as runner-up in the UK’s first Pop Idol. In a phenomenal career which followed he has sold more than 3.5 million records in the UK, released three albums and had four UK number one singles. Alongside his pop career Gareth has been seen on ITV1’s Dancing on Ice and The Big Reunion 2014 for ITV.

D Afro Celt Sound System + The Dhol Foundation

ormed by Grammy-nominated musician and record producer Simon Emmerson, Afro Celt Sound System is a European and African based collective who’ve been a ground-breaking force in music ever since they started. With sales now topping one and a half million albums and two Grammy nominations to date, Afro Celt Sound System celebrated their 20th Anniversary with a stunning new album, ‘The Source’ released in 2016 on ECC Records described as a “colossus of an album” by fRoots. The Source is undoubtedly their most ambitious album yet and one that takes their cross-cultural collaboration and acclaimed live performances to another level.

The collective provide a live music spectacle featuring a host of outstanding musicians, every bit as energetic and captivating as the album. They played to packed houses on tour last year and delighted audiences at festivals around Europe. They will be supported by their friends The Dhol Foundation who will themselves release a brand new studio album ‘Basan’t later in the year. TDF deliver a now legendary wall of sound, global rhythms and thumping contemporary beats with the effervescent Johnny Kalsi, the UK’s most celebrated player of the Punjabi dhol drum, at the heart of their live show. Touring the UK this autumn, catch Afro Celt Sound System at a venue near you.

onald Glover made Emmys history when he won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series, making him the first Black director to ever win the category. The actor/director was nominated for directing the ‘B.A.N.’ episode of American comedy-drama ‘Atlanta’ which was, in essence, a show within a show (complete with its own commercials) and really displayed Glover's unique sense of humour. In his acceptance speech, Donald, in typically unconventional fashion, joked: “I want to thank (President) Trump for making Black people number one on the most-oppressed list. He’s probably the reason I’m up here.” He then received a second award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series. It's been 32 years since a Black person won this award and he beat two-time defending champion Jeffrey Tambor (Transparent) and other comedic heavyweights including Anthony Anderson (Black-ish), Aziz Ansari (Master of None), Zach Galifianakis (Baskets), and William H. Macy (Shameless). The 32-year-old, who can be seen in the Hollywood block-buster ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ was also nominated for Outstanding Writing for a Comedy and Outstanding Comedy Series (for Atlanta), but lost both those categories. Glover is in both the upcoming untitled Star Wars Han Solo film and The Lion King.

DO YOU FOR YOU

aneisha Deans is a young Birmingham artist, mark-making in a range of materials and working with spoken word. Taneisha is also experimenting with video and digital media. She says; "My artwork aims to express my love for creating and experimenting. “It’s what is felt in the heat of a TANEISHA DEANS is creative a young spark, Birmingham artist, mark-making in a range of materials and with the continuous aim to do better than last time. working with spoken word. Taneishaofispaintings also experimenting with video and digital media. “A sequence telling ning of my journey with words." the story of Noah’s Ark scattered Taneisha is a graduate of Punch’s around my then Grade 2 classroom 2016 Gallery 37 youth residency walls aims in Jamaica, was perhaps She says; "My artwork to express my lovethe for programme, creating andand experimenting. It’s has been awarded beginning of my journey with ima Move On Up what is felt in the ages. heat of a creative spark, with the continuous aimmicro-commission to do better than from Punch to continue her work. “ "I wonder why the wind The Do You, For You exhibition last time. A sequence of paintings story blows..." was the telling 1st line the of one of of Noah’s Ark scattered around my is not centered around one subject my 1st poems. I remember being the beginning of my journey with then Grade 2 classroom walls in Jamaica, was perhaps but instead explores the theme of laughed at, but this was the beginembracing whatever makes you

happy. This exhibition shows that it is okay not have it all together. Artwork is accompanied by pre-recorded spoken word pieces, accessible to visitors through their own mobile technology. In this way, the audience is able to interact in with the artwork and have something to take away. Taneisha believes in doodles. Inspiration comes to her in flashes and ideas like these come to life. Do You, For You is the story of a journey combining painting with poetry. Mediums range from acrylic to watercolour, with poetry in both “This piece is what inspired me to go English and Patois. Da Vinci forward with the painting and poetry wrote “Painting is poetry that is seen rather than felt, and poetryidea.” is painting that is felt rather than seen”. Do You, For You is both.

DO Y

PAINTING, DRAWING AND SPOKEN WORD ART EXHIBITION BY TANEISHA DEANS

Who is TANEISHA DEANS?

PAINTING, DRAWING AND SPO

images."I wonder why the wind blows..." was the �rst line of one of my �rst poems. I

Roses Are Beautiful

Page 26 - The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017

TEEN FLAIR

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WHAT CAN I LOOK FORwARD TO? Welcome to another edition of Teen Flair!

usic has become one of the most popular way young people can connect, from rapping to song covers to popular dance videos online. I can proudly say I am a massive music lover, which I believe stemmed from growing up in church, and when finally gaining the confidence I made use of social media to upload my music and share it. So what’s actually changed on the music scene? Music does not only connect people, but it can also give teens a chance to express themselves, their stories, and the hard trials that they’ve been through or going through. So I wondered.. What I could write about for this month and then I came across ‘7E youth academy’. One thing I admire is those that go out of there way to help the youth of today, and 7E focuses on, those teenagers who did not really get a second chance, and seeks to help them build up their creative skills.

7E Youth Academy: The Power of Music

“The Power of Music is a project run by 7E Youth Academy in Birmingham. They’re a community organisation working with some of the most at-risk young people in the city. The young people who join projects at 7E often have very low self-esteem and feel excluded from society, with few educational or employment opportunities. A high number of participants have recently arrived in the UK, and many are living in hostels with little or no adult supervision or guidance. These challenges in turn leave them more susceptible to peer pressure, and at increased risk of getting involved with gangs, or even being targeted as recruits by extremist groups.” The Power of Music offers young people aged 11-18 the chance to write lyrics and poetry, play instruments and learn to use recording studio equipment. The project also provides weekly mentoring, and supports young people to work towards Arts Award qualifications.” positive message to everyone listening.

Would you say music is the best form of expression?

Yes. Kids are so influenced by what rappers singers their idols are saying, I think it can be taken the wrong way sometimes but I hope to change it.

want to introduce you to a close friend of mine who goes by the name Amiri, who is aged 17 and is one person I know who uses a lot of his personal life, opinions to express himself through music.

What does music mean to you?

JOBS

The world. I just wanna spread

What’s your advice for someone who’s afraid to share their music?

7 out of 10 young people that 7E Youth Academy works with have been involved (or at risk of being involved) with anti-social behaviour, gang violence or extremism. One of the key aspects of 7E’s work is the pastoral support they offer young people alongside creative music-making. At every studio session there’s an engineer, producer and music leader, plus a mentor who the young people can talk with if they want to. “Depending on the type of young person and the issues they’re facing, we assign them a mentor that’s right for them,” says Keith. “They can say anything to the mentor and we’ll do our best to support them.”

and his wife’s sister had a child named amir just before I was born and he died and my birth name was Amiri (pronounced Amareye) so when he died they asked my mom to change my name to his What do you think? Tweet your thoughts hashtag #Teamflair

Just do it, you may think you’re not ready but trust me once you do it you’ll feel like you’ve achieved.

What can we look forward to for your music in the future? Thats a secret ;)

What’s the meaning behind your stage name?

My grandads wife re married

Accessorize - Applicants should have a “can do” attitude and be excited about the Accessorize brand. Please send CV to the shop. (Bullring Birmingham) Starbucks - Please email us a PDF copy of your CV and for any further information you can ring us on 01215022805. Birmingham REP - Theatre & Sales Assistant - Salary: £8.60 per hour (24 hours per week) - To provide customer service across box office, reception and front of house

Psalm 105:2 Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts.

YCP is for any young person interested in composing aged 14-18. We define ‘composing’ as ‘creating a new piece of music’. We enjoy working with a diverse range of students with different levels of composing experience. Whether you create songs, write instrumental music, or improvise we want

to hear from you! We recommend students are based in the Midlands due to travel but are happy to consider students from further afield.” You can also contact them directly at: birminghamyoungcomposers@gmail.com

Go and check out new twitter page #TEAMFLAIR twitter page! To keep updated

with activities, polls and more, do not forget to hashtag #Teamflair

KEEP IN TOUCH As we are all aware there is power in social media, I will be using these networking sites, to promote this newspaper page, and #TEAMFLAIR which will not only advertise, but will promote what to look forward to in the newspaper. I’m not only hoping to create just another column, but a movement, for young people of all races. Young people will also have the opportunity to see what jobs are hiring; jobs create independence and not only jobs but free online educational courses, that young people could access.

The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017 - Page 27

op Welsh rally legends will be honoured during next month’s Dayinsure Wales Rally GB (26-29 October), Britain’s prestigious round of the FIA World Rally Championship. Tribute will be paid to a number of high-achieving sporting luminaries including both drivers and co-drivers. The impressive roster features World and British Champions as well as much-admired national heroes and multiple Rally GB winners. All will be present on the event, renewing old friendships and rekindling past memories with photo and autograph opportunities. The special celebration was announced at the Dayinsure Wales Rally GB Media Preview hosted at Cholmondeley Castle and endorses the Welsh Government’s own ‘Year of Legends’ campaign, overseen by Visit Wales. The roll of honour is topped by two World Championship winning co-drivers. Phil Mills from Newtown, Powys guided Petter Solberg to the 2003 WRC title, as well as no fewer than four consecutive Rally GB victories between 2002 and 2005. David Richards CBE from Ruthin, Denbighshire took the 1981 crown with Ari Vatanen and more recently founded

www.streetcredmagazine.com prominent motor sport company Prodrive – the crack team behind Subaru’s many WRC successes. Richards also found time to run the Benetton and BAR F1 operations and to be Chairman of Aston Martin. Wales’ most successful performer at World Championship level, though, is Nicky Grist. Hailing from Ebbw Vale, he joined forces with Juha Kankkunen and Colin McRae to win 21 rounds of the WRC, including triumphs on Rally GB in 1993 and 1997. Neil Wilson from Corwen, Denbighshire is another Rally GB winning co-driver – his moment of glory came in 1985 when sitting alongside the late, great Henri Toivonen in one of Lancia’s fearsome Delta S4 Group B monsters. A quartet of Welsh-born British Champions – Howard Davies (Machynlleth), Gwyndaf Evans (Dolgellau), David Llewellin (Haverfordwest) and Phil Pugh (Tywyn) – are also among those being honoured next month, along with fans’ favourite Phil Collins (Pontrilas). Mills, Grist, Davies, Collins, Llewellin, Wilson and Pugh were in attendance at the Cholmondeley Castle preview where they were joined by Ken Skates AM, Cabinet Secretary for the Economy and Infrastructure, Welsh Government.

Welsh Rally Legends Honoured At World Championship Event l Phil Pugh, Howard Davies, Phil Mills, Nicky Grist, Neil Wilson, Phil Collins and David Llewellin

China and Germany Planning Further Electric Options

hina, the world's biggest car market, plans to ban the production and sale of diesel and petrol cars and vans, whilst in Germany, Volkswagen, have announced that they will be offering an electric version of all its 300 models by 2030. The Far East country's vice minister of industry, Xin Guobin, said it had started "relevant research" but that it had not yet decided when the ban would come into force. Becoming the latest manufacturer to move away from petrol and diesel, VW plan to double

MOTORING

investment in zero-emission vehicles to €20bn (£18bn) as it seeks to put the diesel emissions scandal behind it. The firm plans to offer 80 new electric cars across the group by 2025 Volkswagen chief, Matthias Mueller, declaring that: “People want to have clean air and our customers want clean vehicles. We want to make a major contribution on both scores." The firm, whose brands include Seat and Skoda, also said it would place orders worth more than €50bn for batteries to power the cars.

China wants electric battery cars and plug-in hybrids to account for at least one-fifth of its vehicle sales by 2025, with Chinese-owned carmaker Volvo already stating that, from 2019, all its new car models would have an electric motor. Geely, Volvo's Chinese owner, aims to sell one million electric cars by 2025. Xin predicted the change would create "turbulent times" in the industry. Both the UK and France have already announced plans to ban new diesel and petrol vehicles by 2040, as part of efforts to reduce pollution and carbon emissions.

Page 28 - The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017

CAMARA’S SPOTLIGHT

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Chi-chi Nwanoku OBE

Welcome to my column where I feature some of the most Welcome to my column where Iand feature some of the most special Charities, Organisations People I have come across. special Charities, Organisations andbeing People I have come across. Be a part of my journey and enjoy inspired... Be a part of my journey and enjoy being inspired...

n this months’ Spotlight, I would like to introduce you to a woman I recently met at a Film Festival. Vibrant, passionate and one-of-a-kind – meet Chi-chi Nwanoku OBE, professional musician and founder of the Chineke! Foundation.

Where were you born and raised?

I was born in Parson’s Green Maternity Clinic, Fulham, London. When I was 13 months old we sailed to Nigeria where we lived for two years. At the age of 6 we moved to Blean, near Canterbury, then Chartham, then Emmer Green outside Reading, Berkshire.

Why did you choose music?

While I had always been exposed to music as a child, my overriding passion was athletics, and I was spotted by a talent scout at age 8. By the age of 18 I was competing at national level as a 100-metre sprinter when disaster struck: a knee injury sustained during a football match put an early end to my sprinting career. I was devastated, of course, but music proved to be the silver lining of this disaster: my ‘A’ level music teacher and Headmistress encouraged me to take up the double bass because they knew there was a shortage of good bass players and felt I had enough musical talent to pursue

a career in music! After two intensive years’ study in Cambridge, I was accepted into the Royal Academy of Music in London.

How did you feel growing up as a mixed-race person? Are you comfortable with the term mixed-race?

I am very comfortable with the term ‘mixed-race’ because that accurately describes my multicultural ethnicity. People of my ethnicity have been called one hell of a lot worse! I do not know what it is like to be anything other than mixed race when I was growing up; any more than you being able to say what it’s like growing up as whatever ethnicity you are. The challenges I may have faced that regarded my ethnicity were definitely there, but I have been incredibly lucky in that I had the support and belief of my parents and teachers, who taught me that regardless of my race or ethnicity I could do anything if I worked hard enough.

Are you usually the only Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) person when playing in other Orchestras?

In the early years of my career (35 years), I was used to the complete absence of other BME musicians in the orchestras and ensembles I played with.

I never thought anything of it and it seemed almost normal to me. But in recent years I have had something of an awakening. A decade ago I was asked to do a newspaper interview about an upcoming concert programme, and the chief executive of my orchestra at the time, Marshall Marcus, called me up and said that the paper was particularly interested in a piece we were playing by a lesser-known 18th Century composer, Joseph Boulogne (more commonly known as le Chevalier de Saint- Georges). I took some persuading, but in the end he convinced me to look into it, and what I discovered completely blew me away.   Saint-Georges wasn’t just a composer, he was a phenomenon. The finest fencer on the continent, a champion boxer and a close personal friend of the Prince of Wales, he was the colonel of his own legion fighting for the new French Republic. US president John Adams even described him as ‘the most accomplished man in Europe’.   But of particular poignance to me, and the reason why Marshall had encouraged me to look into his life, was that he had achieved all of these things as a free black man living in an age of slavery. The son of a French aristocrat and a Senegalese slave, he was known as ‘The Black Mozart’, and he was a virtuosic violinist, a pioneer abolitionist and the most famous black figure of his era.   For me, finding Saint-Georges was a bittersweet moment: the more I learned about him, the more excited I became. At the same time, I had this terrible feeling of shame, shame that I had not given even a second thought to the idea that there might be somebody of my ethnicity composing and performing classical music of an extraordinarily high standard in previous centuries. I had simply accepted the canon as the status quo, and it set me to thinking about how other musicians from ethnic minority backgrounds perceived themselves.

Can you name your top 3 favourite songs/pieces?

Classical, Beethoven: Symphony No.9; Soul/Funk, James Brown: Sex Machine, Blues Nina Simone: My Baby Just Cares For Me; Strange Fruit.

to everyone, from all backgrounds and ethnicities, and make them feel welcome at classical music concerts. A big part of doing that lies in giving everyone the opportunity to have an arts education, and placing music back at the heart of our national curriculum. Too often music and other arts subjects have been cut or abandoned completely in favour of STEM subjects. This has been going on for decades, culminating in the new EBacc curriculum, which I fear will be the death blow for pre-tertiary music education in this country. Chineke!’s message is that yes, the STEM subjects are important to our economy and to the development of our next generation, but so are the arts, and we need a firm grounding in both to thrive as a nation and as individuals. In short, we should be thinking not of STEM, but of STEAM!

How is the Foundation funded?

At the moment, we are largely dependent on grants from various trusts and foundations, support from individuals, and Arts Council grants directly related to individual projects. We have no core funding, no office and a staff of 4 including myself, all of whom are nominally part-time (although the reality is that I never stop). This lack of core support is currently a real limiting factor in our ambitions. We have managed to meet many of our goals over the past 2 years, but over a longer timescale than I had originally expected. Still, our growth has been incredible: we had one concert in 2015, one in 2016, but over a dozen this year! To maintain this momentum, we really need core funding, and this is a top priority for me and the Chineke! Board currently.

Where did the Foundation’s name Chineke! come from and what does it mean?

It is an Igbo word that pre-dates Christianity. According to the traditions of the Igbo people from what is now south-eastern Nigeria (where lie my paternal roots). Igbo people believe everyone has their own personal ‘Chi” (guardian or god) that guides them from the cradle to the coffin. “neke” means the creation of all good things, even the rain, the tress, the grass and all diverse aspects. Therefore together Chineke is the spirit of all good creation. The name came to me in a eureka moment in the middle of the night - I sat bolt upright in the middle of the night and shouted it - Chineke!

The Chineke! Orchestra recently performed at the Birmingham Symphony Hall but also at BBC Proms! – what a performance it was – how did it feel to be on stage with the Orchestra?

We were over the moon! To be asked to play at the Proms is every orchestra’s dream! Even more special is that Chineke! was the youngest orchestra ever to debut at the Proms: we were just under 2 years old at the time of the concert. The audience were very enthusiastic, and it was also great that so many people were able to see the performance via the TV broadcast and its availability on the iPlayer. We have been overwhelmed by the response!

How do you recruit musicians for the Chineke! Orchestra?

At the beginning players were simply recommended to me by word of mouth and I undertook lengthy research about everyone.

Since Chineke! has taken off, though, I have met so many fantastic BME musicians that I had no idea even existed. It has come to the point now where people are putting themselves forward from all around the world; they have heard about Chineke!, have heard us play, and want to be involved! We have now started having auditions for both the Chineke! Orchestra and the Chineke! Juniors.

What are your plans for the Chineke! Foundation and Orchestra for the future?

I really hope we start making a visible change to the makeup of our major orchestras, by encouraging more BME musicians to pursue careers in classical music, and by encouraging those orchestras to actively diversify their membership. We would like to see the average number of BME musicians in orchestras (currently about 1%) be equal to the proportion of the population which identifies as BME (around 12-13%). I also want to diversify our audiences and fill up our concert halls with new classical music fans! These days, orchestras seem to be competing for smaller and smaller audiences, and a big part of that stems from the major image problem we have as an industry: people see us as elite, unwelcoming and exclusive. We need to open up classical music

Are there any people you would like to thank?

There are so many! The former culture minister, Ed Vaizey MP, who first prompted me to look at the diversity issue in classical music, has been an enormous supporter from the get-go. So too have Jude Kelly, Gillian Moore and all the staff of the Southbank Centre, who have really nurtured the organisation and given us a home at the Southbank Centre. We are very grateful to all those who have supported us, our Friends, the Arts Council, the Linbury Trust, the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, the Sphinx Organisation (a huge inspiration), the Clothworkers Foundation, The Cockayne Foundation, the Foyle Foundation, the PRS Foundation and the Garfield Weston Foundation. Thank you also to those who have turned up to our concerts, listened in to our radio and TV broadcasts, and have bought our very first CD! Thank you Chi-Chi for taking time out to speak with me! Your personal journey is inspiring and I, like many others, look forward to the next concert performance by the Chineke! Orchestra. You can find Chineke! Foundation online at: chinekefoundation@ gmail.com www.chineke.org www.facebook.com/chinekefoundation www.twitter.com/Chineke4Change

Get in Touch with Camara camara@thephoenixnewspaper.com www.camaraofficial.com www.linkedin.com/CamaraFearon Camara (aka mizzcamara for websearch)

The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017 - Page 29

OBITUARIES AND COMMUNITY NOTICE BOARD

T William G Stewart

nown for his no-nonsense manner, hosted the TV quiz show ‘Fifteen to One’ and producer-director of British light entertainment from the BBC sitcom ‘Hancock’s Half Hour’ and ‘The Frost Programme’ in the 1960s and ‘Bless This House’ in the 1970s-plus may others, to quiz shows like; ‘Family Fortunes,’

With his own ‘Regent Productions,’ he also helped to turn around the Chris Evans-presented ‘Don’t Forget Your Toothbrush’ as well as producing ‘Countdown’s’ 1997 Christmas special, when the hosts Richard Whiteley and Carol Vorderman turned contestants. In 2010, he claimed to have been rejected as a Strictly Come Dancing contestant for being too old to insure. He was 84.

Walter Becker - Steely Dan

uitarist and bassist who, along with lead singer and keyboardist Donald Fagen, co-founded the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame-inducted band Steely Dan, which created unique, pristine, sophisticated albums with "calculated and literary lyrics" that blurred the lines of jazz, pop, rock and soul.

They surrounded themselves with a team of expert studio musicians that included Toto's Jeff Porcaro, guitarist Hugh McCracken and Michael McDonald and produced a list of award-winning albums which featured contributions from the Eagles' Timothy B. Schmit, drummer Jim Keltner and legendary jazz saxophonist Wayne Shorter. He was 67.

Notice Board

he father of former Prime Minister Tony Blair’s wife, Cherie, was best known for playing the left-wing son-in-law and "Scouse git," Mike, of right-wing Cockney Alf Garnett in BBC sitcom Till Death Us Do Part as well as Z-Cars, Dixon of Dock Green and Coronation Street. He was close to his daughter and was at her side when she was sworn in as a QC. He was 85.

Tony Booth

Freddy Shepherd

T T

he former Newcastle United chair was a man with a personality the size of St James' Park whose decade of dealings saw he founder of the Royal Shakespeare Company and former National Theatre director, during his career he staged the English language premiere of Samuel Beckett's ‘Waiting for Godot’ and the world premiere of Harold Pinter's ‘Homecoming’. Sir Peter was responsible for the theatre's move from the Old Vic to the purpose-built three-stage, globally respected, highly ambitious production complex on the South Bank. Several stars have credited Sir Peter with helping launch their

him famously bring both Alan Shearer and Sir Bobby Robson back to their beloved North East and was a popular figure at the club throughout his reign. Also a chair of Shepherd Offshore Group and Triple S Sports & Entertainment Group, he rose from humble roots to become an important fixture of North East life and business. He was 76.

he world's most famous party boy, he founded the ‘Playboy’ empire, he was described as a cultural phenomenon, best known for his lavish parties and a mansion full of Playboy Bunnies. Being known for scoring beautiful women for their covers and centre-folds, he is responsible for

T Sir Peter Hall careers, Sir Patrick Stewart and Sir Michael Gambon being among them. He was 86

he Coronation Street legend played Vera Duckworth for more than 30 years. One of soap's great matriarchs, her stormy relationship with TV husband Jack, played by Bill Tarmey, provided on-screen drama and humour for decades.

sexualizing female celebrities like Marilyn Monroe, Cindy Crawford, Kim Basinger, Pamela Anderson, Madonna, Sharon Stone, Naomi Campbell, Carmen Electra, Drew Barrymore and Kim Kardashian. His health had been declining for a while, and he even had sold his home, but under interesting circumstances. He was 91.

Liz Dawn She had been diagnosed with emphysema in 2004 and left the Street in 2008. She did, however, return in 2010, when she played her own ghost in the episode in which Jack Duckworth died, with the pair sharing a last dance together. Liz was 77.

prise!

, Big Sur ittle Shop

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

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Page 30 - The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017

AZUZA STREET - FATHER PATRICK JOYCE

The End Of An Era A

s of the 1st October 2017, a Birmingham community will experience the end of an era, as Father Patrick Joyce, Priest at St Mary & St John Parish Church on Gravelly Hill will step down from his position after 45 years as a Priest, and over 32 years at the Parish. While he will not be moving too far, he hopes to stay in the Erdington area, the loss of the figure that has been such an iconic part of so many peoples lives over the years will no doubt leave a massive hole for many of the congregation. A young man at only 80, if you ask him if he is alright, you will always get a quick response with a wry smile from the man who is definitely still young at heart. “Well I’m half left,” “I’m still breathing and above ground” or “What does alright mean exactly?” can catch even the most on-the-ball parishioner off guard! Born on the Aran Islands, County Galway, off the West Coast of Ireland on January 22nd 1937, Father Patrick Joyce was the oldest of 10, 6 boys and 4 girls including himself, all of whom are still

alive. “Our nearest Parish to our west would have been that of New York,” he laughed, “some 3000 miles across the Atlantic!” His extended family hasn’t moved far for the most part, with 2 brothers residing in Birmingham, one sister in America and the rest remaining in Ireland, although none of them followed him into the clergy. “I was born 2 years before the second world war,” he mused, “and although I had always thought of being a Priest, I didn’t know if it would be possible.” Leaving the Aran Islands at the tender age of 15, he moved to mainland Ireland before moving to England, and to Birmingham when he was 20 in 1957, knowing just a few friends. “I went to Campion House, Osterley for 3 years, and we had to learn Latin in those days, it was very difficult. My first language was Gaelic or Irish as we would probably now call it,” reminisced Father Joyce, “I then moved to Oscott College on Chester Road in Sutton Coldfield for 6 years.” Father Joyce was ordained in Ireland

The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017 - Page 31

FATHER PATRICK JOYCE - AZUZA STREET

on the 8th January 1972 by the late Archbishop Cunnane, 45 years last January. Starting out at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Yardley Wood until 1974, he then moved to St Johns in Banbury for 7 years, “I liked it there, it was isolated and lonely but it grew on you.” He then moved on to St Francis in Handsworth and St Josephs in Nechells, moving where the diocese needed him. “St Josephs was a parish that goes back to the foundations in 1850 after the famine and lots of people came over from Ireland,” he explained. 80 years of general knowledge, history, names, stories and so much more are stored ready for retrieval whenever he needs them, a knowledge of his flock, young or old, that is legendary in the diocese. “In 1985 I came to St Mary & St John’s in Erdington, you never know where or when you will be sent, you don’t have a choice in the matter.” As luck would have it for the parishioners, Father Joyce stayed at St Mary & St John’s for

the next 32 years. “The memorable moments for me have always been the people. Being involved with them in all situations , Births, Marriages and Bereavements, the Pastoral care of people is so very important. Being with people, it’s what it is, supporting the flock as well as you can, showing that you care and your concern.” The close connection to St Mary and St John’s Junior and Infant school is something that is very close to Father Joyce’s heart. “I visited every classroom in the school every week. Monday in the infant school and Tuesday in the Juniors, unless there is a funeral,” explained Father Joyce, fondly. “I visit them to support them, and you get to know the children, we have a great mixture of nationalities in the school, and they like it, they get to know me as well as I, them.” “Irish immigration to the area finished a long while ago, and people have moved out from Erdington to the surrounding areas

since, but there is a new wave of immigration which I’m very supportive of, a lot from Africa, as well as Poland and a number of other countries. They have truly enriched our lives.” Tending to the flock is something that is second nature to Father Joyce, visiting those in hospital, housebound and in a number of care homes weekly, to give Communion and prayers, as

well as his company which Is always gratefully received. But all things must come to an end, as he explained “When you reach the age of 75 you have to offer your retirement, it’s the law of the church, but if you’re able to carry on you can until you’re 80, but they want you to retire at 80. Then you can help out if you can or whatever, have a rest.” “I will help anyone that requires

help in the church, if anywhere needs me.” Taking a number of pilgrimages over his life, he visited Lourdes 3 or 4 times, as well as Rome for a few days, taking part in a whistlestop tour of the religious sights before meeting the then Pope John Paul II quite by accident! “There was a small group of us and the Priest who was leading us knew somebody and before we knew it we were shaking hands with the Pope! It definitely who you know!” Even though he is stepping down from his position as Parish Priest, he will not be far from his congregation, “I’m looking forward to being able to continue to help and support wherever I’m needed, I couldn’t see myself just doing nothing, the last 50 years of my life has been with and for people, all people.” Canon Gerry Breen, the Dean of St Chad’s Cathedral spoke to The Phoenix Newspaper about Father Joyce, and summed him up better than anyone else could have.

“Father Pat Joyce is well known in the diocese as being a fine example of what it is to be a Pastor, his visitation of his Parish is phenomenal and well known. “He is a great example of what it is to go out into the community, visiting people in their homes and learning their stories, and he has been there long enough to have baptised 3 generations of families now. “I know he will be sorely missed, he is a very warm-hearted Pastor who is much loved, across all faiths as well, and is a well known figure in and around Erdington.” The Parish is so thankful to Father Patrick Joyce for his unstoppable dedication and devotion to his faith, the parish, the parishioners and the school, and while it will certainly be an end of an era for the area, he is someone that will not be forgotten for a very long time. Enjoy your rest Father, you’ve certainly earned it.

Page 32 - The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017

AZUZA STREET

COGOP Open Day Highlighting ‘Inclusive’ Approach to Community

ased in the heart of Wolverhampton, in the West Midlands, the Church Of God Of Prophesy truly lived up to its ethos of serving all of its

he Crowne Plaza Hotel Birmingham on Monday evening played host to an auspicious gathering of BME Civic, Faith, Housing and Community Leaders, amassed for an appreciation dinner in honour of the West Midlands Combined Authority Mayor, Andy Street CBE. Invited by Nehemiah UCHA Honorary President, Bishop W R Powell, OBE & Chairman Mr Jimmy Ogunshakin, the assembled group welcomed Mr Street and congratulated him on his election to Mayor of the West Midlands. Nehemiah UCHA are a Housing Association with a portfolio of 1100 properties serving the multicultural African Caribbean, Asian, Irish and European communities within the West Midlands, and the night was as much a celebration of their success over the years as well as honouring Andy Street. “With such an influential group of leaders from across the West Midlands here, thank you very much for bringing everyone together tonight,” Mr Street began, “Part of my reason for coming tonight is to learn from what you all do, and to build those relationships.” “There is no point in saying what you’re going to do during a campaign, if you’re not prepared to ac-

tually do it when you’re in office as well. I am determined to continue the engagement of all of the communities, because genuinely I believe that being Mayor has to mean being Mayor of the whole of the West Midlands, not just one community.” Mr Street fielded questions from the room adequetly, talking expertly on the topics of Social Change, Housing, and his first 100 days in office, with his usual charismatic charm shining through, immediately putting everyone at ease. For someone who stepped into the political arena from a business background, and set out a checklist of promises that by his own admission, he would be judged on, he was brutally honest in his admission that those promises haven’t all been hit to the standard he would have liked, yet. A true breath of fresh air from a politician. With regards to the Homelessness Task Force, Andy agreed with a statement from Nehemiah UCHA Chief Executive Llewellyn Graham earlier in the evening, that “actually the government record on this is poor, we have to lobby carefully to win change and drive improvement in that area, and I’m pleased to say that everyone is coming together to do that.” Nehemiah UCHA have responded to the needs of their custom-

community – and they did so in spades in welcoming people of all religions, backgrounds, generations, genders and denominations with their annual ’Community Open Day.’

It was yet another chance to highlight the abundance of services undertaken at the Community Centre, at the Gloucester Street building, in Whitmore Reams, with a variety of music, games, sporting activities, as well as an ideal opportunity for prayer requests, a place to just talk, or simply meet neighbours and friends-both old and new. Opened by the Mayor of Wolverhampton, Councillor Elias Mattu, men, women and children happily mingled side-by-side in a true spirit of oneness and community cohesion that is the mainstay in what is the ultimate in multiculturalism. In his presence, the Right Worshipful, Cllr Mattu and his wife, Asha, were able to view some of the services open to the general public, including; Childcare Services which provide a Breakfast Club, After School and Holiday Schemes, a Senior Citizen’s Club, Youth Club, an educational Learning Centre hub, a Jobs Advice Centre IT Support service; “I’ve always had good reason to visit here,” he said. “It really

is the focal point of this community and I am very proud to be here. It’s very much part of me.” Lady Mayor, Asha, too, made herself very much part of the day’s activities, showing off her skills at dominoes with a group of experienced exponents of the game (just about – with playing partner, losing 5-6). Purring at an incredibly successful COGOP Gloucester Street Open Day, Centre Manager, Marcia Williams, said; “This turnout is vindication of our purpose here – to have an all-round ‘open door policy for the community we serve. There are 150 different languages spoken in Whitmore Reams alone. What we are doing here is mixing the traditions with new ideas so that we are seen as truly ‘inclusive.’ Our staff, which is a diverse mix of cultures and religions, is a representation of the people we serve. It’s a true privilege to be associated with such an open, forward-thinking organization like here at Gloucester Street. Church Of God Of Prophecy.”

Communities Come Together To Celebrate New Mayor, Andy Street

ers by providing large homes for those with extended families, specially designed homes for people with disabilities or specific religious/cultural needs, and energy efficient homes to minimise the

impact of fuel poverty. They are committed to serving the community and aims to build it into a thriving social unit in which people of all ethnic backgrounds feel at home and valued.

With the help and support of those gathered in the room, and the wider communities they represent, Andy Street definitely has a good ear to the ground to discern exactly what is required.

Whether he is able to enact change for the betterment of these communities as he has set out to do, only time will tell.

The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017 - Page 33

n the beautiful Ramada Hotel Sutton Coldfield, members family and friends gathered to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Pride of Birmingham Chapter No2. With a nod to the founding sisters, Taitt, Richards, Ferguson and Williams, with the unity of Brother Mechanics Markley Taitt, B Yapp and P Williams who worked together to open the Pride of Birmingham Chapter Number 2 on the 21st January 1967, the speakers celebrated the 50th Anniversary. Despite initial delays, a beautiful meal was served, punctuated by presentations to the surviving founder members, as well as to the current Illustrative Matron herself, Sister Monica Coke. In the presence of the Right Worshipful Grandmaster, Hon. K. D. Bascombe, members acknowledged the difficulties faced over the years, and also the good and great things that had happened through the organisation. There was a passionate presentation by Ladies Fighting Breast Cancer, urging ladies of all ages to ensure they keep any scan appointments and to know their own bodies. Congratulations to the Pride of Birmingham Chapter No.2 on their 50th Anniversary, and here is to another 50 years together.

NEWS

Pride of Birmingham Chapter No.2 Celebrates 50th Anniversary

Sheikh Ibrahim Janko A Prominent Spiritual Healer & Advisor

Inter Faith Service For Peace 2017

he Inter Faith Service for Peace marks the 16th Anniversary of the Birmingham Faith Leaders Group, and will pray for all the victims of terrorism, conflict and civil disorder, and for all refugees, and to mark in Birmingham, the United Nations international Day Of Peace. Led by the Rabbi Yossi Jacobs, who is the Chief Minister of the Singers Hill Synagogue, the amassed crowed observed the three soundings of the gong, in keeping with the ringing of the Peace bell by secretary-general Antonio Guterres at The United Nations headquarters in New York in observance of this International Day of Peace

Following prayers for peace and refugees, The Faith leaders and members of the public were invited to write down their own prayers and hopes, and pin them to a public wall of prayer in the colonnade area. The Birmingham Peace Rose which was planted at the Peace Garden on the 10th anniversary of the Faith Leaders Group, was then blessed and sprinkled with water as further prayers were given. With representatives from the Roman Catholic, Sikh, Muslim, Jewish, and Buddhist communities amongst others in attendance, it truly was a beautiful representation of the diverse nature of Birmingham, and a perfect celebration of the unity in the city.

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Page 34 - The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

T ocus F on Social Care

l Cllr Paulette Hamilton

his month I wanted to focus on some of the services that social care provide. The enablement (home care) service that has been provided has focused on supporting an individual remain independent as long as possible in their own homes. It is a good service and one that I know that our service users value. We have some incredibly hard working home care / enablement staff who provide a great service to some of our most vulnerable citizens. However, the current service is no longer fit for purpose and needs to be modernised and provided in a way that is more flexible to meet the needs of our vulnerable citizens to enable them to continue to have a good quality of life and to have a service that is provided at times that best suit their lifestyles. I mentioned last month about the work we are doing to integrate and align more closely with Health and focusing more on place based care and ensuring there are services in local communities that support people remain independent. Also ensuring our vulnerable citizens when discharged from hospital have the appropriate support to enable them to adjust back to living independently with the support of family members and services in the community setting. The proposed new enablement service is aligned to the goals that Birmingham City Council are seeking to achieve for adults and older people which are that they should be resilient, living independently whenever possible and exercising choice and control so that they can live good quality lives and enjoy good health and wellbeing. The changes we would like to implement are common sense; and are in line with what other similar councils do and we have learnt from best practice elsewhere, including national best practice in enablement This is the first stage in developing excellent enablement care that genuinely allows people to stay at home and have a good quality of life with the least intervention and interference. In the future we will be looking to work much more closely with health services. It is important to note that our NHS services are free but legislation has for time enshrined social care as a means tested service; so those with assets and savings have to pay for support required to assist them remain independent within their own homes. It is tricky and like many of us I know that myself and my family will have to one day draw on these services to support my elderly parents wo are fiercely independent so that will be a challenge!! Going forward in these articles I am hoping to share with readers the difficult decisions that need to be taken to ensure that we have as service that is fit for the 21st century.

he annual ‘Stoptober’ campaign is underway this month with an all new TV advert designed to encourage those who see it to stub out their cigarettes for good and spreading its motivational message backed up by free support and advice from social media (the Stoptober Facebook group for one) to participants’ phones, laptops and tablets via email and Messenger. The campaign, reprised by Public Health England, dovetails with a new University College London report which suggests that smokers are having more success at beating the habit than ever before with record numbers successfully quitting in the first six months of 2017. UCL’s researchers found that quitting success rates have now hit 19.8%, against a 10-year average of 15.7%, coinciding with the introduction of e-cigarettes, heavier smoking restrictions and a ban on the use of branding on cigarette packs. Public Health England marketing director Sheila Mitchell said: “There are more ways aids to quit smoking than ever but e-cigarettes stand

Government Backing for E-Cigs during Stoptober

out as the most popular method with half of all those taking part in Stoptober last year using one. For this reason the Stoptober campaign, most notably the TV ad, clearly position e-cigarettes as a quitting aid.” Health experts have tended to shy away from explicitly

Young Wheelchair Users Taught Invaluable Independence Skills at Albion Foundation

he Albion Foundation teamed up with Whizz-Kidz to provide opportunities for teenagers in wheelchairs to add to their life skills by taking them on a day trip. Heading to Stratfordupon-Avon, the youngsters were shown how to pay for train tickets, board a train and navigate their way around the town. "It's about teaching them to be independent so it helps in later life," explained Paul Hunt, The Foundation's Senior Disability Development Officer. The trip provided an opportunity that isn't often presented to the participants. "I think it's really important for the young people we work with," said Ray Davis, Regional Services Coordinator for WhizzKidz.

They often don't get an opportunity to go out on their own without their parents." A day in the Warwickshire town went down well with the explorers. "I had so much fun," beamed Jonathon Davis. "I've never been to Stratford so it's like a new city for me. I'm happy that I've had a really good experience but sad that I'm going home." The Albion Foundation, a registered charity, uses the power of football to make a difference, raise aspirations, grow their people and participants and connect West Bromwich Albion Football Club to its communities. It provides opportunities for those with disabilities and learning difficulties to inspire them to love sport; to play, learn and develop all abilities.

promoting e-cigarettes. But the government campaign during October will feature vaping in its TV adverts for the first time. It comes after e-cigarettes proved the most popular tool

for quitting during last year's campaign. Some 53% of people used them, helping push the numbers of people taking part in Stoptober since its launch in 2012 to over 1.5 million. New draft guidance from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)

does not list e-cigarettes as a recommendation to help people quit, but says patients should be told some smokers have found them helpful when they want to give up. NICE advises that patients should be told that there "is currently little evidence on the long-term benefits or harms of these products." Professor Gina Radford, the government's deputy chief medical officer, said: “E-cigarettes ae playing an important role and, as they had ‘95% less harmful products’ in them than normal cigarettes, it was only right that they were promoted during Stoptober.” However, she also said there were a number of other factors that were proving effective in reducing smoking rates, including restrictions that have been brought in such as standardised packaging and bans on displays in shops. "The battle against smoking is far from over,” she continued. “It is still the country's biggest killer, causing 79,000 deaths a year. And for every death, another 20 smokers are suffering smoking-related disease."

The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017 - Page 35

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Support Column

First Cysters Chat Group Meeting

Families ‘tache and Go for MoRun

oRunning is back this November throughout the UK with the inclusion of the 1.5km mini MoRun where far more children and families can enjoy everything MoRunning is about; good fun, lots of laughs, loads of smiles, high fives and not forgetting the

fancy dress and funny moustaches. MoRunning, with locations including Sutton Park in the West Midlands, plus Leeds, Cardiff, Belfast, London and Manchester, proudly supports The Movember Foundation - the only charity tackling men’s health on a global scale, year round - with one

single goal: to stop men dying too young. Donations will help to continue funding world class programmes that are saving and improving the lives of men around the globe. Ahead of the MoRun in Cardiff, TV fitness guru, Mr Motivator said: "I am so excited to be playing a role in this year’s MoRun-

ning. It is a great opportunity to get dressed up in fancy dress and have fun, but beyond this, there is the chance to raise awareness about men’s health, whether this is mental or physical. I hope to motivate as many people as I can, to not only have fun with this challenge, but to also raise as much money and awareness as possible.” The Movember Foundation raises funds and awareness for prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health and suicide prevention. People are encouraged to make sure that they secure their entry as places are limited and are selling quickly.

Confusion Causing Default from Public to Private Dental Care

he UK's Dental System is confusing, say the majority of adults in the West Midlands, forcing people to use private health care, or turn to nondental public health services out of desperation. With public dental care on offer, even through the same practice, patients may be turning to the private sector by default. 51% of private care patients say they find the dental system confusing, with 18% finding it very confusing, and over a quarter do not know where they could go to get common treatments completed through public services. In West Midlands, 58% of adults are unaware that you can get a crown, root canal treatment, scale and polish or bridges carried-out through the NHS. The ease of getting an appointment is the primary reason for using private dental care – more so than the quality of materials, the service, or because treatments/ results last longer. The quality of public dental care does not seem to be the

problem, with nearly half (42%) of those who switched back to the NHS reporting that they did so because they didn't see the point in paying for private care. Media medic and GP Dr Ro-

ger Henderson said: "We often receive patients suffering from dental problems because they are not familiar with the UK's dental system. I strongly advise people to make sure they are on the best

and most affordable service for them, and treat any problems locally until they can get an appointment, rather than visiting their GP or A&E."

o we had our first Cysters Chat group meeting. It was truly an eye opener. Sitting down with several women who are in varying stages of dealing with different Reproductive health issues and hearing firsthand their struggles, questions and triumphs. Meeting with these lovely women impressed in me and I learnt several things about the importance of patient support groups: First, these women have a forum to talk about their struggles with people who understand what they are going through. A few of the women expressed that they had felt crazy before joining the group because people around them are not sympathetic to the everyday difficulties of gynae problems the bleeding, pain, anaemia, and more. Second, these women can help educate one another about treatment and coping options. Because the women are at different stages, they can share insight and perspectives about the variety of treatments they’ve tried. Last but not least, these women of different ages and walks of life, who were once strangers,

have now become friends. The beauty in the meeting for me was, the fact they went to dinner and have stayed in contact since the meeting. They’ve truly become Cysters for life. They have something in common with each other. Because they understand each other and what it is like to suffer, they are willing to help and support one another. So yes, embrace these groups. You’re not on your own. Helping to develop patient support groups is a natural extension of Cysters education and outreach efforts. It helps break down barriers and promote a positive conversation between different women from various backgrounds. If you would like to start a Cysters Chat Community support group – then contact us! Or come along and join us in Birmingham. We hope that being in a group like this will make you feel less alone in daily struggles with gynae and reproductive health and also help get you on the road to freedom! Love your Cyster, Neelam xx Website: www.cysters.co.uk Twitter: @cystersbham Facebook: Cysters – Womens Support and Awareness Group

Page 36 - The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017

ALZHEIMERS SOCIETY MEMORY WALK - BIRMINGHAM

Birmingham leads the way in the fight against Alzheimers

ith 100,000 people across the UK coming together over two months of walks, Birmingham led the way with a massive event in Sutton Park. At Birmingham’s Sutton Park Memory Walk, over 6,000 people turned out to unite against dementia, raising hundreds of thousands of pounds in the process. Jeremy Hughes, CEO of Alzheimer's Society said of the day, “Today is important for two reasons, firstly it’s an opportunity for people to raise a lot of money which means we can provide more services to support people with Dementia and we can also do more research to try to find a cure and the answer. “People can feel that other people are coming up against the same challenges, and if we work together people can be supported better when they are living with dementia.” BBC Midlands Today Presenter,

Mary Rhodes cut the ribbon to start Birmingham’s Sutton Park Memory Walk accompanied by her husband Duncan Jones who is also an Alzheimer’s Society Trustee. Judy Clayton, 53, from Hall Green Birmingham was at the Walk. She said: “My mother has mixed Alzheimer's and Vascular dementia and has had it for about two years. She went to the doctor's and had a Memory test. I'm walking today to one day find a cure in the future.” There are an estimated 26,000 people over-65 living with dementia in Birmingham and the Black Country and the condition affects many more people. Phil Harris, 59, from Wolverhampton said: “I am walking for my mother-in-law and my best mate Billy who had dementia for about four years. This is the second time some of my family have taken part in Memory Walk.” Many Walkers had decorated their t-shirts with mementos of

people they were walking to remember. Once completed, Walkers were handed medals as they crossed the finish line. Kristel Hill, 39, from Birmingham said: “My Nan had dementia and we have come for her today. The condition has taken away her whole personality. I want to walk for people in a similar position: we need a cure!” Jeremy Hughes also took the time to talk with the many people affected with dementia. Janice Le Tellier, Alzheimer’s Society Operations Manager for Birmingham, Solihull, Coventry and Warwickshire, said: “Dementia is set to be the 21st century’s biggest killer. “I am so glad that people from Birmingham and across the West Midlands stepped out in their thousands to improve the lives of people living with dementia. “Every pound raised will help Alzheimer’s Society provide information and support, improve care, fund research and create last-

ing change for people affected by dementia. “As a Society we are committed to spending at least £150 million over the next decade on dementia research to improve care for people today and find a cure for tomorrow. “I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has helped make this year’s Memory Walk such a huge success.” For those that didn’t make it to this years walk, Jeremy had this to say, “If you don’t do it next year you are missing out. It is an amazing atmosphere, and it is a way of remembering members of families that maybe had dementia in the past. “What is lovely about this is that people who have dementia are able to join in the walk as well, it’s very inclusive, it’s a lovely atmosphere and everyone can take part.”

The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017 - Page 37

ADOPTION AND FOSTERING

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

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

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

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

DfE Figures Show Rise in Number of Children in Care

he Department for Education recently released annual figures for England that show a rise of just over 2,000 in the number of children in care. Foster care placements account for three quarters of these children and there is an increase in the amount young people in staying put placements. The Children and Families Act 2014 introduced a new duty on local authorities in England to advise, assist and support fostered young people to stay with their foster families when they reach 18, if both parties agree. This change to the law was achieved after a long campaign led by The Fostering Network, and was one of the proudest moments in the charity’s 40 year history. The figures confirm the central role that fostering plays in the care system, which further cements the need to ensure that the right foster carers are available for each child, and that foster

carers receive the proper financial and practical support needed. Jackie Sanders, Director of Policy at The Fostering Network, said: “Having campaigned for a change in legislation to allow fostered young people to stay living with their foster carers until the age of 21, we are pleased that the latest figures show a continued rise in young people ‘staying put.’ However, there is still plenty of room for growth. The fact that 30 per cent of care leavers aged 19 who were eligible for staying put are now living with their former foster carers is a step in the right direction.” There is still a range of cultural, financial and logistical obstacles getting in the way of making staying put a reality for all young people who want it. “Finances, for one, must not prevent any young people staying put when this would be in their best interest,” Saunders said.

Team GB Sprint Star, Baulch, Latest Adoption UK Ambassador

ormer British sprint athlete, Jamie Baulch, has been announced as becoming ambassador for adoption and fostering charity, Adoption UK. Olympian, Baulch, who is an adoptee, won the 400 metres gold medal at the 1999 World Indoor Championships - and as a member of British 4 × 400 metres relay teams, won a gold medal at the 1997 World Championships, and silver medal at the 1996 Olympic Games. He also represented Wales at the Commonwealth Games where he won an individual silver medal and a bronze medal in the 4 × 400 metres relay. Born in Nottingham, he was raised by adoptive parents in Newport, in Wales. In 2016 he made a BBC TV documentary; ‘Being Jamie Baulch: The Search for My Birth Dad,’ in which he goes in search of his biological father, who he believes to be Jamaican, and the source of his speed. In a previous Bafta Cymru-winning BBC documentary ‘Jamie Baulch: Looking For My Birth Mum,’ he went on an emotional

Black History Month Highlighting Need for More Foster Carers

here are now more children than ever coming into care, with almost 6,000 more in care on any one day now than there were in 2007. Around two-fifths of the children in care are aged 11 to 15, and finding people with the right skills to look after teenagers is now the top priority for fostering

services. About 70 percent of children in care in the UK live with foster families who provides a safe, secure and nurturing family environment, either short- or longterm, and allows children to keep in contact with their own families if they wish. Suzanne, 38, is a mum who works full time as a school

chef. She has always wanted to be a mum and, sadly, following a number of miscarriages, she turned her mind to adoption. Suzanne is keen to tell her story because she hopes that more Black people will start thinking about adoption. There are often many preconceptions. For example, some people think that you will be

journey looking for his birth mother. In the end he found her, met with her for the first time and showed her his athletics medals. He said: “I’m well aware that adoption has changed dramatically since I was adopted as a baby so I am keen to understand the issues facing adoptive families today. But I know only too well the importance of finding adoptive families for the many vulnerable children waiting in care and what it means to those children to find the love and support of a family of their own. “This is why I want to champion Adoption UK’s campaigns and help to persuade decision-makers across the UK to give all adoptive families the right to timely and appropriate support.” Adoption UK’s chief executive, Dr Sue Armstrong Brown, said: “Jamie's real-life experiences as an adoptee are invaluable to Adoption UK. “Not only has Jamie got an inspirational personal story to tell, he obviously gets what it means to be adopted, which is vital when it comes to successfully engaging with other adoptive families. ruled out if you are disabled, if you are gay, if you are a couple but unmarried, if you are single, if you are on a low income, if you are an ‘older parent’…but this is untrue. Suzanne is particularly a champion for Black adopters. “So many Black people think about adoption and say ‘no I can’t because I’m on my own or because I don’t have enough money’. But it can still happen for you because they do seriously look at you for who you are and what you can offer the child. Once you show that you can fit the child in your life, it happens.”

We’re delighted to have Jamie on board.” Baulch is the fourth celebrity to become an Adoption UK ambassador. He joins broadcaster Nicky Campbell OBE and West End star

With around 4,000 children currently in the UK care system waiting to be adopted, especially during Black History Month, she wants to encourage more Black people to go for it. Suzanne is lucky that her family and friends make up a supportive and close-knit support network for her, with many living close by, including some of the nephews who now dote on her son Jay. Foster carers, like Suzanne, can give families a chance to sort out their problems by providing children with a home and supportive family for as long as they need. She is also proof that people

Shona White – both fellow adoptees – as well as gold-medal winning Olympian Tessa Sanderson CBE, who is an adoptive parent to twins.

aren’t ruled out of adoption because of their financial situation or needing to work. “You don’t have to be on mega bucks. I’m certainly not and I work full time,” she says. Suzanne advises families to be open and honest with their agency about their financial situation, especially in the current economic climate, with many families facing uncertainties. She also wants to promote adoption amongst Black families because she feels ethnic, cultural and religious identity is an important part of a child’s self-identity.

Page 38 - The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017

OVERSEAS NEWS

Puerto Rico still open after Irma While the assessment of impact across the island continues, the Puerto Rico Tourism Company’s preliminary report shows that major tourism infrastructure and attractions are operational and the island can continue to welcome new visitors. While power outages are present throughout the Island, many hotels, as well as essential services on the island such as hospitals, are operational due to generators and the majority of hotels throughout mainland Puerto Rico are ready to welcome new guests. Attractions such as parks and beaches are currently being assessed to ensure a committed focus on quick clean up in the coming days. Flights to and from Luis Muñoz Marin International Airport have resumed. Puerto Rico’s port is operational and should now be receiving cruises. “Our thoughts are with our Caribbean neighbours who have also been impacted by this storm and those on the U.S. mainland who may still be in harm’s way,” said Jose Izquierdo, Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company.

of Laureus special editions, the IWC Da Vinci Chronograph Edition ‘Laureus Sport for Good Foundation,’ with a theme of ‘Time Well Spent.’ The drawing features a young boy skiing and throwing his hands up in joy – a reference to Hou Ye himself, who is an accomplished Special Olympics athlete. Special Olympics make it possible for children and adults with intellectual disabilities to participate in sports training and competitions. It is estimated that China has over 85 million people living with a disability. Laureus Academy Member Li Xiaopeng said: “This is a great achievement for Hou Ye and an acknowledgement of the wonderful work Special Olympics is doing in China for his design to be selected for the Laureus Sport for Good Special Edition watch. “This is a great project that breaks down barriers within the community and shows just what sport can achieve.”

Time Well Spent A

unique design by a 12-year-old boy has been chosen for a new limited edition watch which will raise funds to help Laureus Sport for Good improve the lives of young people around the world. A Special Olympics athlete in Shanghai, in China, Hou Ye was one of hundreds of children

from Laureus-supported projects worldwide who entered the IWC Schaffhausen drawing competition. Hou Ye and the pupils at the Jingan Qihui Special Education School were thrilled when Olympic gymnastics superstar Li Xiaopeng congratulate him on his design, which is engraved on the case back of the 11th in the series

Saudi Women Celebrate the Right to Drive

audi Arabia have announced that it will end its long-standing prohibition on women drivers in a move seen as part of an effort by the son of the king, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, to overhaul the kingdom’s economy, society, and reputation globally. This new policy, which will go into effect in June 2018, was announced on state-owned media. The cultural edict is seen as partly responsible for the many obstacles that Saudi women face in joining the workforce, with a lack of mobility which tended to

foster unemployment. According to the country’s own General Authority for Statistics, 34 percent of Saudi women were unemployed last year The ban won’t be lifted immediately, though: the kingdom stated that it will need time to both educate women how to drive and men on how to interact with women on the road. The current ban is a result of a religious fatwa issued in 1990, which prohibited women from driving within the borders of the kingdom. It is also illegal for women to be granted a driver’s license. Women

IWC Schaffhausen CEO Christoph Grainger-Herr said: “Congratulations to Hou Ye and Special Olympics. His drawing captures the fun and importance of sport; beliefs which we share passionately at IWC Schaffhausen.” Cherry Ye, Marketing and Development Director from Special Olympics East Asia said: “Everyone at Special Olympics in Shanghai is delighted that Hou Ye’s design has been chosen for this year’s IWC Laureus Sport for Good watch. Taking part in this competition has been very educational and inspiring for all our young people and made us feel part of a bigger Laureus family.”

who are employed have to hire private drivers to get to and from work, or use ride-hailing services like Uber or Careem to get around, which eats up much of their pay. Lifting the ban will have an effect on the ride-sharing services that operate in the kingdom. In recent years, many Saudi women have come to depend on the app-based companies to gain freedom of movement. (Some would even say that women were a “captive market” for these services.) Soon, they may be signing up to earn money by driving for Uber or Careem, a firm valued at $1 billion that is based in Dubai and operates across the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia. At the time, Uber executives expressed support for allowing women to drive, but did not state explicitly whether they planned to hire women drivers. “We've always said that women should be allowed to drive,” an Uber spokesperson said today. “In the absence of that, we're proud to have been able to provide extraordinary mobility that didn’t exist before. “We look forward to continuing to support Saudi Arabia's economic and social reforms.” The announcement to lift the ban highlights how much of this decision was geared toward changing perceptions of Saudi Arabia by Western governments.

The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017 - Page 39

HOLIDAY AND TRAVEL

l CHTA President Karolin Troubetzkoy

CHTA Stands With Caribbean Leaders

The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) is backing calls by Caribbean leaders for the international community to keep the devastating impact of climate change on the global development agenda. As the region’s prime ministers and presidents gather in New York for the annual meeting of the United Nations General Assembly, CHTA President Karolin Troubetzkoy said: “We must continue to let the world know how parts of the Caribbean are beginning to be devastated by the effects of climate change and the urgent need to strengthen our resilience to such assaults.” Together with CHTA’s Director General and CEO Frank Comito, Troubetzkoy expressed continued sympathy for the hardship following the passage of Hurricanes Irma and Maria and urged everyone in the projected path of Maria to take serious precautions. The tourism officials want to see a united front to bring immediate aid, calling on regional organizations, governments, relief organizations and multilateral organizations to pursue a more coordinated effort in responding to the needs of the region’s people following these devastating weather events.

Escape the City and Explore Victoria’s Island this Autumn

isit the Isle of Wight this autumn and follow in Queen Victoria’s footsteps on the brand new Victoria’s Island Trail. The trail includes Victoria’s beloved Osborne, the royal retreat by the sea which is featured in the new movie ‘Victoria & Abdul.’

Space Tourism To Resume

ussia officials say they will resume space tourism in 2018 after years of sending into space only professional cosmonauts and astronauts. Russia had sent seven paying guests to the International Space Station since 2001 before curtailing the program in 2009. Sending a tourist has been all but impossible since 2011 when the United States shut down its Space Shuttle program and had to rely on Russian Soyuz rockets in order to get into orbit. Russia, however, has made an exception for British soprano Sarah Brightman who is due to blast off on Sept. 1. American enterprises aimed at space tourism were stymied last

USVI Assessing Damage from Hurricane Maria

fall after a Virgin Galactic craft crashed during a test flight over the Mojave desert. The SpaceShipTwo crash, on Oct. 31, 2014, killed one pilot and left another injured. It also slowed Virgin Galactic founder Richard Branson's plans of getting paying customers to the edges of space, for $250,000 a pop. Virgin Galactic CEO said soon after the incident that the company could resume test flights this summer. Russia's RKK Energia, a state-controlled rocket manufacturer, said in a quarterly report released on Tuesday that it plans to make up for an expected drop in demand for manned flights by resuming space tourism in 2018.

In the 1840s, Queen Victoria and Prince Albert chose the Isle of Wight as their favourite holiday spot. The creation of the palatial family holiday home at Osborne brought a new status to the Island. The Victoria’s Island Trail includes thirteen locations and attractions across the Island that have a connection with Queen

Victoria and her family. They include Farringford, the home of Lord Tennyson, St Mildred’s church, Carisbrooke Castle, Shanklin Chine and the unique Ventnor Botanic Gardens. The trail allows visitors to literally follow in the footsteps of the Queen – to walk along the same paths, to see

the same views and to enjoy a unique journey around the Isle of Wight. The Isle of Wight, off the UK’s south coast, is easy to get to and can be reached in less than two hours by train from London Waterloo to Southampton and then by Hi-Speed passenger ferry to West Cowes or by vehicle ferry to East Cowes if taking a car.

The Government of the United States Virgin Islands is working to assess damage to the Territory following the passage of Hurricane Maria. The eye of the Category 5 storm passed south of St. Croix bringing with it hurricane-force winds, heavy rainfall and flooding. The islands of St. John, St. Thomas and Water Island, which are still recovering from the impact of Hurricane Irma, endured tropical storm conditions. The Department of Tourism continues to encourage travelers to postpone trips to the islands at this time as it further evaluates the damage caused by the hurricanes and coordinates evacuation efforts. Communication throughout the Territory is limited, and the Department of Tourism is in the process of collecting information from tourism stakeholders. “We are thankful for life today – let’s continue to support each other as we recover from these weather events,” said Beverly Nicholson-Doty, Commissioner of Tourism. The Department of Tourism will continue to provide updates once received, and thanks everyone for their thoughts, prayers and assistance as the Territory works on its recovery efforts. To assist with the recovery and reconstruction, visit www.usvirecovery.org.

Page 40 - The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017

PROPERTY AND REAL ESTATE

Hammers Legends Creating New Kind of Legacy

ince 2016, former England captain Rio Ferdinand, current West Ham United skipper Mark Noble and ex-Brighton striker Bobby Zamora have formed an unlikely team partnership in a different game – the property market. The trio with the Hammers connection, in partnership with Central Bedfordshire Council, make up the ‘Legacy Foundation’ – a regeneration charity with a plan to build a series of social and privately rentable housing schemes. The £400m project, funded by Aviva Investor,s is worth £400m with plans to build 1,300 homes on a 22-hectare site in a run-down area in Houghton Regis near Luton., and is being funded by Aviva Investors. Former Liverpool striker, Rob-

bie Fowler, runs a buy-to-let property empire stretching from Cardiff to Scotland and even organises masterclasses on how to become a multi-millionaire landlord. The West Ham trio have chosen to focus on social and affordable housing. They want to help tackle Britain’s housing crisis by building thousands of affordable homes across the country, complete with sporting academies where they will offer coaching to youngsters. Noble said: “We want to create something special,” said Noble. “I moved seven times in four years in social housing in east London [as a kid]. We know what it feels like. We used to see the ‘no ball games’ signs everywhere. Our motto is to have a sign saying ‘all ball games allowed’.”

Over 200 Property Runners Race To End Youth Homelessness

ver 200 professionals from across the property and construction sectors raced to end youth homelessness at yesterday’s inaugural LandAid Midlands 10K sponsored by St. Modwen, the UK’s leading regeneration specialist. Competition was fierce as runners raced to set records for property’s newest 10K. In the men’s race Robert Dowse of Pinsent Masons crossed the line first in a time of 40:49.0. He was closely followed by Abby Halcarz of Opus Land, who came out on top in the women’s race with a time of 42:00.8. Jonathan Green of St. Modwen was crowned Fastest Male Over 45 with a time of 42:30.5, whilst Kathy Toon of Shoosmiths took the title of fastest female in the same category, completing the course in 51:34.9. Thanks to the fundraising efforts of the industry, LandAid, the property industry charity, has already raised £25,000 from the race, which was hosted and sponsored by St. Modwen Properties in and around Longbridge

town centre, in Birmingham. LandAid will use all donations from this year’s LandAid Midlands 10K to help fund local charity St Basils to convert an empty property into a home for 18 young people at risk of homelessness. This life-changing project will renovate the empty, former nurses’ accommodation block in the grounds of Sandwell Hospital, in West Bromwich, in the West Midlands, to provide genuinely affordable accommodation for young people.

It will create 18 bed spaces arranged in nine flats for young people who are working or doing apprenticeships but are unable to afford local rents. The LandAid Midlands 10K is LandAid’s first race to end youth homelessness in the Midlands. Places for the event sold out fast, with runners from companies including St. Modwen, GVA, Eversheds Sutherland, Knight Frank and BNP Paribas Real Estate all competing to take home a trophy.

Boom or Bust for Homeowners?

ith political u n c e r t a i n t y, stamp duty changes and squeezed household incomes all dampening buyer demand, the housing market in Britain has hit the buffers. The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) say a large majority of surveyors in both London and south-east

England were reporting falling prices, though the national picture is balanced by price rises in the West Midlands, the southwest and Northern Ireland. Homeowners who have enjoyed rising prices for years should get used to slower rates of growth or even a drop in the value of their home, say property market experts. But a generation of renters who

have felt cut off from the property ladder by increasingly unaffordable prices will be relieved to see the market cool off. They would have escaped the house price crash that some forecasters, including the International Monetary Fund, had warned could happen in the event of a Brexit vote. But the housing market has slowed markedly since the referendum.

The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017 - Page 41

SPORT - WITH STEVE WILLIAMS Kick It Out Raising the Game in Sports Media Kick It Out’s Media Raise Your Game (#RYG17) series of events highlighting the lack of Black and Ethnic Minorities in the sport media continued at BBC New Broadcasting House, in London. Supported by the English Premier League, it set out to highlight working opportunities covering areas such as writing, journalism, social media and broadcasting. With a panel comprising of BBC Sports Correspondent Natalie Pirks, Victoria Cotton (Assistant Editor Live Event Platform, Red Button and Olympic Sports) and former Raise Your Game mentee, Daryl Hammond, now a freelance sports journalist who has worked for the BBC, there was workshops, including one for CVs, with Glen Bertram, Staffing and Business Manager at the BBC, who assisted mentees with building profile and focussed on the station’s output towards younger audiences. Shelley Alexander, Chair of Kick It Out’s Mentoring Delivery Group and Editorial Lead for Women’s Sport at the BBC, spoke of her delight at assembling such a varied group. She said: “I love bringing together the best reporters and editors from BBC Sport to meet and inspire the brightest and best of the next generation of sports media talent. Kick It Out’s Media Raise Your Game is always an exciting event and this one was no different.” Kick It Out is football's equality and inclusion organisation working within educational and community sectors to challenge discrimination, encourage inclusive practices and work for positive change.

l Mike Rodriguez

Fantastic Five

l Chris Wegrzynowski and Floyd Brown with the trophy that they have held as a Mens Doubles pair for the last 5 years few light showers did little to dampen the enthusiam of the competitors at Boldmere Tennis Club as the Annual internal competition came to its conclusion. Boldmere Tennis Club was formed 102 years ago and has come a long way over the years, to most recently upgrading to 2 hard courts with floodlights and two Savanna Astroturf courts. The members-only club is a member of the Lawn Tennis Association and offers coaching as well as regular league and tournament play. 58 year old Floyd Brown from Erdington proved that age is but a number, as he took to the court with his mens doubles partner Chris Wegrzynowski. Floyd started playing at Boldmore in 1998, following an invitation in a local newspaper inviting

the commnity to attend an open tennis day. “Back in those days you had to have an entrance test to see if you were of the standard required to join the club!” explained Floyd. “I remember my entrance test where I had to play the Chairman at the time. “Even so I thought I was of a good standard as I played regularly in the park but I struggled to even hit the ball! Somehow I still managed to pass.” Floyd is a member of the mens, mixed and veteran mixed doubles teams, reaching the finals in the mens and veteran competitions this year. The finals took place over the weekend of Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th September, with Floyd playing on both days. Despite a hard early fall which left Floyd a bit tight and in visible discomfort, Floyd and Chris

battled hard to take the first set 6-4 in a convincing fashion. Unfortunately due to health concerns of their competitors, the match ended after 1 set, seeing Floyd and Chris crowned champions for the 5th year in a row. It was a bittersweet victory, as this is the last year that the duo will play together, so the winning streak will end at 5, the longest streak the club has seen in the mens doubles game. Sunday saw the veteran doubles game and Floyd and Chris back on the court again, this time as opponents. Sadly, due to the injury sustained on the Saturday, Floyd and his partner Lisa Havard lost in straight sets. Floyd encourages anyone of any age to continue with sport, “Playing tennis keep me physically and mentally fit, with a great group of people here.”

UKA Celebrating BHM with Sports Exhibition

K Athletics will be hosting a unique exhibition in celebration of Black History Month. Led by former athlete and now UK Athletics’ Vice President and Equality, Diversity & Engagement Lead, Donna Fraser, the event will focus on celebrating Black History Month via the delivery of a black and white photographic exhibition, with the long-term goal of continuing to inspire the next generation to get into athletics for years to come. An annual celebration in the United Kingdom, Canada and the USA – though celebrated in differing months based on location - Black History Month exists with the purpose of recognising history, experiences and the accomplishments of black people. Serves as the key milestone for the organisation, the ex-

Riders are Rolling with Rodriguez Mike Rodriguez will join Leicester Riders as the reigning champions moved to further strengthen their backcourt with the addition of the guard, ahead of next month's All-Stars Basketball Championship and the 2017-18 BBL season. Rodriguez, a Boston native, joins from Southern Illinois University where he led the team in scoring with 12.9 points, as well as contributing 4.0 assists per game in his senior season. "Mike is an exciting player," said Head Coach, Rob Paternostro on his latest signing. "I really enjoyed watching him play and was impressed with his ability to make plays for himself and others. He is a tough guy to defend, his passing, ball handling and athleticism will help make an impact on the game and alongside his scoring he was able to get to the freethrow line 6 times per game his senior year." Rodriguez joined the team as pre-season training ramped up ahead of the All-Stars Basketball Championship, as well as the start of the regular season which started the following week..

hibition - entitled ‘COACH’ – will be be held in collaboration with commercial partner Grant Thornton and takes place of Wednesday October 25 in London. In recognition of the contribution of past and present Black and Asian athletics coaches in the UK from grass roots to elite level, it will shine a light on those who were athletes themselves and are passionate about sharing their experiences and expertise with emerging athletics stars in the UK. On the exhibition, Olympics and Commonwealth Games medallist, Donna said: “It is with great pride that we can formally announce our finalised plans for the ‘COACH’ exhibition in less than two months’ time. As an organisation there are several key messages we want to deliver, with the crux of the exhibition being to promote positive BAME role

models, especially females, while inspiring BAME communities to get involved in athletics, whether that be through participation, coaching, officiating or volunteering.” Athletics is the most diverse and inclusive sport globally, and UK Athletics respects the time and effort all coaches give to the sport to produce quality athletes at all levels. Photographer Ernest Simons added: “I love sport and love taking shots of athletes at all levels even more. Working with UK Athletics for Black History Month has given me the opportunity to tell the story of that unique coach-athlete relationship through photography, which many people do not get the chance to see, and so I wanted to ensure this exhibition tells many stories for everyone from any background to engage with and be inspired.”

Page 42 - The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017

Fantastic 5 Proves You’re Never Too Old - Page 41

UKA Celebrating BHM - Inside Back

Stars Turned Out In Force For #Game4Grenfell

t was an opportunity for those at the heart of the matter to spend just a little time to escape the trauma as Manchester United Manager Jose Mourinho and Olympics legend, Sir Mohammed Farah, were among the stars at the #Game4Grenfell charity football match at Queens Park Rangers’ Loftus Road stadium. Taking place just before the opening salvers of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, it was short respite as team led by former England international Les Ferdinand beat a side managed by his former striking partner Alan Shearer 5-3 on penalties after what was an entertaining 2-2 draw. Gathered in west London, to suppor those affected by the Grenfell Tower tragedy, were the likes of Hollywood actor, Damian Lewis, TV presenter, Ben Shepherd, comedian Jack Whitehall, McFly's Danny Jones, singers Olly Murs and Marcus Mumford, plus sporting legends Jamie Redknapp Trevor Sinclair and Ben Cohen, amongst an array of many others. With the laying of wreaths and a minute's silence observed, the game followed.

A special moment took place in the 80th minute as four survivors of the fire itself came on and all rose as one for them before, at full-time, firefighters and Grenfell residents took the deciding penalties - singer, Murs, firing home the winner for Team Ferdinand. Entertainment provided by Emeli Sande, Rita Ora, Mumford & Sons, plus others, made it a memorable day for all concerned – in many ways. QPR is just a mile or so away from Grenfell Tower. The club’s Director of Football, Ferdinand, said: “As someone who grew up in the area, this is incredibly close to my own heart and having spoken to Tony Fernandes (QPR Chairman) he was also keen to continue the work we've done in the community since the fire. The #Game4Grenfell Charity Match was the very least we could have done.” All ticket money from the match went directly to the London Community Foundation to fund those affected by the fire in June, which claimed the lives of at least 80 people. The Grenfell Tower Inquiry, chaired by Sir Martin Moore-Bick, formally opening on September 14.

Mayor’s Movers To Master Great Birmingham Run

l Mayor’s Movers with Mayor Street (top row second from right)

ifteen members of the West Midlands Combined Authority including Mayor Andy Street CBE will be taking on the 13.1mile Simplyhealth Great Birmingham Run to raise funds towards Cure Leukaemia’s £1m Appeal to expand the globally significant Centre for Clinical Haematology at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham. The ‘Mayor’s Movers’ including members from Birmingham, Solihull, Dudley, Wolverhampton and Coventry authorities, will be pounding the second city streets on Sunday October 15, and also competing in The Arcadis Business Challenge. The £3.2m expansion project began in May after the GBSLEP granted over £2m to the expansion and, at a launch event held at KPMG’s Birmingham office, Cure Leukaemia announced its commitment to raising the additional £1m required.

Once completed, the Centre will double its capacity for blood cancer patients, ground-breaking clinical trials and specialist research nurse positions. Not only will the Centre immediately help save more lives, it will also hasten global progress towards eradicating blood cancer within 25 years. Mayor Street said: The work pioneering work Cure Leukaemia supports, led by Professor Charlie Craddock CBE, is not only benefitting patients across our great region but also globally. “The expanded Centre will save more lives and firmly enhance the West Midland’s status on the world’s stage and we are determined to raise

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as many funds as possible to help this transformational project become a reality. “I look forward to seeing the public out in force on October 15 and our team are determined to come out on top in The Arcadis Business Challenge which invites teams from companies across the Midlands to compete for fastest-time trophies and all-important bragging rights.” The four fastest times by participants are added up for each team to pick the overall winners, which means the smallest teams can take on the giants of the corporate world. Central to Cure Leukaemia’s appeal are the patients around the region who are battling the disease right now and four patients from areas represented by the ‘Mayor’s

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Movers’; Wolverhampton, Birmingham, Dudley and Coventry are set to inspire the WMCA team forward. Nigeria and Wolverhampton Wanderers goalkeeper Carl Ikeme, 31, who was diagnosed with Acute Leukaemia in July said: “Since I was diagnosed and have been receiving treatment the support I have had from the people of Wolverhampton and the whole footballing community has been incredible and I am immensely grateful. “Knowing there are people out there running, cycling and holding events to raise vital funds and awareness for the work of Cure Leukaemia is really inspiring and I’d like to wish Richard White from the Wolverhampton Authority and the whole ‘Mayor’s Movers’ team the very best of luck this October.”

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The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2017 - Page 43

Award Nominations 2017 International Businessman of the Year

International BusinessWOman of the Year

Paul Ramsey Tony Sealy Ninder Johal Steve Walker Levi Roots

Samantha Golding Rose Duggal Deborah Leary Beverly Lindsay Beverly Johnson

Enterprise Award

International Excellence Award

A Perry & Co Kenneth Grey Downtown In Business ART Business Loans Karen Bailey

H.E. Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode H.E. Gov. Ogbeni Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola H.E. Gov. Isiaka Ajimobi H.E. Gov. Ibikunle Amosun H.E. Gov. Yahaya Bello

Charity of the Year Award

Faith Connection Award

Birmingham Air Ambulance Ronald McDonald House Charities Acorns St Basils Birminghams Childrens Hospice

Reverend Esther Ajayi Canon Gerry Breen Rabbi Yossi Jacobs Bishop George Bloomer Bhai Sahib Bhai Dr Mohinder Singh OBE

Local Entrepreneur of the Year Award

International Communications Specialist Award

Joel Graham Blake Zoe Bennet Steve Logan Samuel Leeds Barry Tomes

Johnson JohnRose Bevan Springer Craig Gunderson Benjamin Goodwin Becky Humphries

Musical Dedication Award

Connecting Communities AWARD

Heart Of The Community Award

Sporting Legend Award

Steel Pulse Mark Dwayne Gillespie UB40 Apache Indian Shayal Patel

Tyson J Leon Paul Smith Desmond jadoo Garry Peal Terence Wallen

Jeanette Nicholson AKA Miss Lily Mukhtar Dar Michael Wassifa Brown Eve Pitts Hector Pinkney

Frank Bruno Mark Walters Bunny Johnson Kash ‘The Flash’ Gill Ellie Simmonds

Media Personality Award

Spiritual Leadership Award

Local Hero Award

George Kafetziz Rue Jay Dr Neslyn Watson-Druée Richard Branson Andy Street

Noreen Khan Bob Warman John Simmit Ed James Sasha Brooks

Reverend Esther Ajayi Bhai Sahib Bhai Dr Mohinder Singh OBE Archbishop Bernard Longley Rabbi Yossi Jacobs Bishop Cierion Dewar

Dean Alexander Keith Stokes-Smith Wade Lyn Amrick Singh Ubhi Dipak Shelat

International Sports Development Award

Emissary of Peace Award

Peoples Choice Award

Steve Hollingworth Garry Peal Liz Birchall Denise Lewis Niels de Vos

Bhai Sahib Bhai Dr Mohinder Singh OBE Kofi Anan Honourable Farouk Adamu Aliyu Pope Francis Malala Yousafzai

Mellows Catering Abbey Paseda Wayne Irie Mark Bates Waine Turner

Veteran Award

International Sporting Hero Award

Michael Wilson Cecil Morris Lloyd Blake Dipak Shelat Sted Wallen

Annie Zaidi David Hayes Daniel Sturridge Nicola Adams Moen Ali

Leadership and Empowerment Award

‘Mr Community’ Award

Special Community Veteran Award

Humanitarian Award

Loyalty Award

Editors Choice Award

True Friend Award

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT Award

Employee Of the Year Award

A Commonwealth Celebration Royal Guest Of Honour

His Imperial Majesty The Ooni Of Ile-Ife

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