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CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS
The Phoenix Newspaper - August 2021 - Page 11
MUSIC FASHION FILM GADGETS HOLIDAY EDUCATION HEALTH AND FITNESS
AUGUST 2021
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FREEDOM DAY WE ARE OPEN! ENTERTAINMENT AND HOSPITALITY IS BACK!
Page 12 - The Phoenix Newspaper - August 2021
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THE HOTTEST ENTERTAINMENT SUPPLEMENT
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indie-rock coming to Birmingham with Creeping Jean
P
utting a modern twist on the vintage 60s and 70s sound, Creeping Jean are a Brighton six piece offering up huge Indie-Rock tunes to cut through the haze. Having picked up ongoing support from BBC Radio 6 Music, Radio X, BBC Radio 2 and BBC Introducing among others, the band are now back with new single 'Desert Sauce' ahead of their upcoming UK tour. Taking a full throttle approach on the opening of ‘Desert Sauce’, Creeping Jean
quickly build momentum with a wall of biting guitars, warm keys and tight, punching drums. Olly’s incisive vocal take demonstrates his effortless ability to bring a charismatic energy to the track as he delivers tongue in cheek, dessert laden innuendos one by one. Bringing together influences such as Jack White and The Doors, ‘Desert Sauce’ truly captures the tight yet electrifying and explosive nature of their live shows, showcasing them as one of
the UK’s most exciting up and coming Indie Rock outfits. Speaking on the new single, Lead singer Olly said: “Having a real sweet tooth and a love for desserts, we word played innuendos as we carved a desert rock sounding record with a title switch from ‘dessert sauce’ into one that would be a no.1 hit for any cake maker. Savoy truffle by the Beatles was a little inspiration as well.” Having sold 5 thousand pairs of converse via their Brighton based shop ‘Waiste Vintage’ and at Carboot sales, Creeping
www.streetcredmagazine.com Jean are a homegrown band with a stadium sound thundering their way towards success in 2021. With previous appearances at festivals including Isle Of White, The Great Escape and Truck Festival, Rave reviews from the likes of Gigslutz and a previous tour with Temples under their belt, the band are set to double down on their successes with a full UK tour booked for the autumn:
25 September
Southampton, Joiners
29 September
Liverpool, EBGBs
30 September
Manchester, Gullivers
1 October
Brighton, Patterns
8 October
Sheffield, Record Junkie
9 October
London, Shacklewell Arms
22 October
Birmingham, The Dark Horse
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FOOD
Food & Fine Dining
The Restaurant Hub introduces A new dining experience
A
brand-new dining destination featuring five of the High Street’s most popular restaurant brands, has opened in the Sainsbury’s Superstore in Birmingham. Based on Selly Oak Boulevard, the Restaurant Hub features five favourite restaurants, ensuring there’s something for everyone. From gourmet burgers at GBK - Gourmet Burger Kitchen succulent chicken wings and tenders from Slim Chickens -
which also has a restaurant at Grand Central, in the city centre, fish and chips from nationally renowned Harry Ramsden’s, breakfast and hot dogs from Ed’s Easy Diner and coffees, pastries and sandwiches from Caffe Carluccio’s, foodies in Selly Oak and beyond can now rejoice at what is a new, expansive eating experience. Ed's Easy Diner will take over from GBK to serve breakfast and brunch dishes at the supermarket every morning.
With an expansive communal dining area seating 180 – alongside full grab-and-go and delivery options – the Restaurant Hub, which is operated by a one till system so you can order from different restaurants at one place, offers a uniquely different dining experience where compromise is firmly off the menu; whether you’re dining in, taking-away or ordering for home delivery (via Deliveroo, Just Eat or Uber Eats). After being greeted by a vibrant, welcoming team, staff at the Restaurant Hub will make your stay the ‘best ever’ – as you already set-out your plans for that second visit there. The Restaurant Hub will allow diners to mix and match dishes from any of the five participating restaurants. While featuring five of the High Street’s favourite restaurants, everything is in place to ensure that there is something for everyone – from gourmet burgers, chicken wings and tenders, fish
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and chips, breakfast and hot dogs, and coffees, pastries and sandwiches – all done with the highest quality, in top-class surroundings. We tried the Fish Bites from Harry Ramsden's, the Cheese & Bacon Burger from GBK, and the Honey BBQ Chicken Wings and Plant Based Chicken Tenders from Slim Chickens. The quality was plain for all to see, freshly cooked, beautifully presented and so flavoursome. A stylish new dining experience, which replaces the store's previous food court at Selly Oak Shopping Park the Restaurant Hub at Sainsbury's in the Selly Oak Shopping Park opened in 2018. Located just off the A38 and Harborne Lane and next to the Worcester and Birmingham Canal, it is the UK's first-ever 'Restaurant Hub' opening – with more hopefully to come.
0121 339 5885 (Birmingham) l The Stereophonics return to Arena Birmingham on February 29th
CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS
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hmv To Open New Store In The Heart Of Solihull
Dr Toni Luck CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS
hmv opened a new store at Solihull-based shopping centre, Mell Square, on the entertainment retailer’s 100th birthday. The 4,500 sq ft store, which creates eight new jobs for the local area, arrived on 20th July, 100 years since the very first hmv store opened its doors to the public. The first 100 customers received a goodie bag, but all was able to take advantage of amazing in-store offers, including: • Two-for-£40 on best-selling vinyl titles • 20% off high-definition Blu-Ray and 4K film and TV • hmv’s Century of Music and Film promotions, showcasing the best of the past 100 years • Great savings across the technology range, with up to half price on headphones and turntables In addition, hmv’s highly anticipated 1921 Centenary
Edition vinyl is on sale in store. The collection of some of the retailer’s favourite albums from the past 100 years includes Sam Smith’s acclaimed debut album “In the Lonely Hour”, Kate Bush’s “Hounds of Love”, Dolly Parton’s “The Very Best of” and The Star Wars Trilogy’s Original Soundtrack. Local customers can also look forward to pop-culture must haves, with exclusive t-shirts, sweet treats and collectable
figurines, alongside an extensive range of over 5,000 vinyl LPs, collector’s edition Blu-Ray and 4K Ultra HD titles for film and TV lovers, with a great selection of classic turntables and the latest headphones too. Solihull shoppers can also take advantage of hmv’s brandnew “hmv delivers” service, allowing customers to order any items not in store to be delivered direct to their door.
BIRMINGHAM'S BREAKOUT DUO LYCO X WXYNE RELEASE NEW SINGLE
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et to be a staple in your soundtrack this summer, on the track LYCO X WXYNE say: “Birkin Price is song that allows everyone and anyone to feel expensive we all deserve our moment to shine and this is it.” Their recent single ‘Midlands’ created a viral moment across twitter racking up over 100,000 views on the teaser alone with the official video surpassing over 200,000 views and becoming one the most played songs on no signal radio to date. With a growing social presence the boys have also begun to amass serious numbers online for
their tik toks & viral videos which are in the millions of views. WXYNE, originally from Jamaica and LYCO, from Nigeria, discovered each other on Instagram and after swapping musical ideas over social media they decided they had to meet and began their musical journey. The music comes from a place of authenticity and melds different cultural influences to nail down a sound that’s true to them. WYYNE blesses the tracks with smooth melodies and Jamaican Patois, whilst LYCO offers soft sweet sounds mixed with his native Yoruba twang. Their a dynamic duo to keep your eyes and ears on.
A SMALL-SCALE REVOLUTION FOR LOCAL RADIO WITH DAB
THOUSANDS OF listeners right across the UK are set to enjoy a richer and wider range of radio programming thanks to an innovative new technology called small-scale DAB. Pioneered by an Ofcom spectrum planner, small-scale DAB provides a low-cost way for local commercial, community and specialist music services to take to the digital airwaves. Since February, Ofcom has planned the airwaves and awarded small-scale DAB licences in 25 areas across the
UK. With the first round of awards now complete, these licences have the potential to allow the launch of over 500 new local radio stations. Some of the hundreds of new stations set to launch on small-scale DAB are existing analogue community and small commercial radio services. Many others will be completely new - ranging from grass-roots community services to boutique specialist music stations, and services aimed at minority groups and other under-served audiences.
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HANGING OUT WITH HIGGINS
MONTHLY COLUMN steve@stevehigginsproductions.com www.stevehigginsproductions.com
L
ong before the month August became the best month of the year -my birth month, Jamaica’s independence month (I could go on), many Caribbean folks were already celebrating a momentous timeEmancipation. There is a lot unsaid about the historical influences that have given us our popular music and dances. The brutal slave trade which was engineered by the kidnappers, human traffickers, rapists, and murderers and their enablers of that day, had seen many revolts by the islanders. Tacky, Sam Sharpe, Paul Bogle, George Gordon, Nanny of the Maroons and many more, led uprisings, riots and outright war against that prevailing wickedness and the perpetrators. Our folk music gives us insight into our history – our oral history- which thankfully has been passed down through the
generations. The Jamaican Folk song “WAR!” documents one such uprising……. “WAR dung a Monklan’, WAR dung a Morant Bay, War dung a Chiggah Foot, de Queen nevah know! WAR, WAR, WAR-O, WAR-O Hebby War-O!!” Have we told our youngsters about the Morant Bay Rebellion of 1865 or other uprisings in Jamaica? How about those uprisings in the Caribbean? Do you know of the institutions in the UK including educational institutions that benefitted from slavery? Are we involved in the discussions regarding reparations, business/trade deals or even scholarships from any of these institutions? In time, the ban of the slave trade in 1807, the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833, and various other acts of the British Parliament, saw the abolition of
slavery in most British colonies. Owning, buying, and selling of humans as property were finally outlawed throughout its colonies around the world, but it is said that those islanders’ freedom came in stages and was not recognized until midnight July 31st 1838. I cannot imagine the excitement, the exhilaration and
jollification at the momentous Emancipation of August 1st, 1938. Not only was there the Jamaican Folk song “JUBALEE” (below) heralding this massive, electrifying celebration, but there was also a special dance that goes with it, called “BRUCKINS”! “Jubalee, Jubalee- Dis is de
year of Jubalee; Augus’ Mawnin come again, Augus’ Mawnin come again, Augus Mawnin come again, Dis is de year of Jubalee, Queen Victoria gi’ we free, Queen Victoria gi’ we free!”. Dr. L’Antoinette Stines, artistic director of L’Acadco Dance Company (Jamaica) states “Bruckins is not a traditional
dance..it’s not from Africa… it’s indigenous to Jamaica, created by the enslaved on the plantation to celebrate the abolition of slavery. “Bruckins” means “Bruck it up”, and it belongs to the creolized group of traditional dances of Jamaica, which reveals a unique mixture of African and European Influences.” She continues “The former enslaved dressed up in costumes as slave owners, and their dance was a blend of their African movement structure and that of Pavane dancing out of Europe”. “The vibrations of swirling hips, the convoluting spinal column, the swaying arms, the contrapuntal rhythms of Africa, feet firmly rooted on the earth, intimately and spiritually connecting with drums”… Sounds like Dance Hall and Reggae..right? Connect with L’Antoinette at https://www.lacadco.net/ or doc. stines@gmail.com
JAMAICA INDEPENDENCE NOSTALGIA
G
rowing up in Jamaica, I always looked forward to our independence celebrations! The independence balls, house parties, concerts, theatrical productions, major cooking events and of course the music, which would of course include the count down of Festival songs over the years. The bigger events were in Kingston- the Grand Gala at the National Stadium, the Costume King and Queen competition and awards at the National Arena and the Denbeigh Agricultural show in Clarendon. There were many concerts, speech, singing and dance competitions under the auspices of the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC), held at
the Little Theatre, and sporting events all over the island. The sweltering heat of the day was no problem for us as we attended these family events, which would have us partaking of snow cones, Kisko pops (Mom never approved of the bag juices), coconut cakes, gizzada, peanuts from the cartman and when the time was right, Tastee patties with icecold D&G Kola Champagne. What a treat! I remember the feeling of pride from way back when, experiencing and enjoying these aspects of Jamaican independence celebrations, which looking back, always presented us with wholesome activities which entertained, taught me and fed my cultural curiosity. There were Cultural shows highlighting every aspect of
our musical genres including Mento, Ska, Rock Steady, Reggae and Dance Hall and the dances that go with them. Juicy Jerk specialties, with properly marinated meats, and sauces
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tickling every tastebud and tantalizing the palate, leaving one totally satiated. YUM! My Dad, always the true community man, sponsored a few friends a ‘round’ of J Wray
& Nephew, after which my sister and I got everything we asked for! Independence is always a time of reflection, as a country, on our achievements. It is also a time for introspection; where we have gone wrong and where we need to be. One thing for sure, so much world-class talent has come out of Jamaica, impacting the globe- mostly positively! It is easy to remember the famous folks like Mary Seacole, Marcus Garvey, Usain Bolt, Bob Marley, Shelly-Ann Fraser, to name a few but there are many of whom you will perhaps never hear, but who have laid the foundation of our nation. Jamaicans tend to have this indomitable spirit- They believe they are the best at what they do- good or otherwise.
No wonder our folks in the Diaspora are making fantastic strides in all disciplines in life. This independence, I will encourage my readers to reach out to relatives of the younger generation, tell them about the Jamaica you know and love. Recount the many stories of home, that made your life so meaningful. (You have my permission to exaggerate slightly to keep your audience captivated). Teach them some history, some folk songs, take them to the National Library of Jamaica, the Institute of Jamaica, the museums. If you don’t, who will? We have a lot to celebrate! Just be safe, treat each other with kindness and respect and do your thing. Happy Independence!
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Sutton Coldfield to Welcome Festival-Feel Coldplay Event
S
utton Coldfield Town Hall is planning a live music event featuring the music of Coldplay this October. Headlined by the band Ultimate Coldplay, the theatre event will include a two-hour concert show plus an after-show party on Saturday October 9. The world’s leading tribute to Coldplay, who play globally, features an uncanny look and soundalike Chris Martin and a supremely talented band, plus full concert sound and light for a full festival experience. The show will feature performances from two decades of hits including Yellow, Fix You, Adventure of a Lifetime, Paradise and Sky Full of Stars. An indie disco and after show party will follow the band, giving Sutton Coldfield a full festival experience on its doorstep, with dancefloor fillers from The Smiths to Pixies, Pulp to The Wonder Stuff.
FREEDO WEEKEN WE ARE OPEN!! ENTERTAINMENT AND HOSPITALITY IS BACK!!!
W
ith hospitality closed over the last year, the industry has suffered a huge blow, entertainers have had to do live streams and entertain people while at home but lets face it there is nothing better than going out to party in real life. This Lockdown has really showed what we really had before it was all taken away from us. Now the ravers and social butterflys are back out in full force and no longer want to be entertained online. The freedom weekend really shown that entertainment has truly been missed! Street Cred Magazine was out on the weekend in Birmingham going bar to bar club to club checking everywhere from Daytime brunches, the Gay Village, and Broad St.
It was great to hear the banter, drinks flowing, party on the streets, loud music, people holding hands and dancing with each other I mean this is how life used to be right? Speaking to the revellers, the feedback was that it actually is better to party more than before, maybe because we haven't been out for so long. What we have seen is that people are out very early and it is almost like a desperation to be entertained fully..no one wants to miss a moment or want it to end. Socializing is so important, people need this, it really isn't good to not socialize and stay in your home doing nothing. We all need that spice. Welcome back to the good life... We look forward to covering more events and seeing more people socializing!
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ON YOUR MARKS SUPPLEMENT
New Tour To Help People To Get Back Into Libraries
The Lasting Benefits Of Ackee A SCRUMPTIOUS natural product that is a famous expansion to numerous fascinating dishes, ackee has been a pillar in Caribbean food, both for its flavour and its gainful properties. Prominent in a large number of the countries of West Africa and Jamaica – as part of the well-known saltfish and ackee dish – with its flavour and accessibility, it is loaded with nutrients, supplements, and natural parts that make it a helpful dietary apparatus for various medical issue. A natural product that is a wellknown expansion to numerous dishes, its rich fibre makes it an ideal stomach related guide, given that dietary fibre helps build-up the stool, just as take out blockage, by instigating peristaltic movement in the gut. The high potassium substance of ackee goes about as a vasodilator, lessening the strain on cardiovascular framework, subsequently bringing down the odds of hypertension and atherosclerosis. It also improves heart health, helps in digestion, brings down blood pressure, lifts protein power, expands bone strength, lifts immunity and manages circulation as it plays a big part in helping to bring down pulse, help energy levels, uphold recuperating, and development, help in processing, lower cholesterol, assemble solid bones, improve the insusceptible framework, and increment flow. Above all, though, with saltfish, the taste is overwhelmingly delicious! It’s worth trying – for all the best reasons.
MAYOR VISITS COOKBOOK EDIBLE LIBRARY PROJECT
T
he Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, recently saw how local families and young people in Haringey have the chance to cook their own food at one of the most borough’s most exciting new projects the Cookbook Edible Library at St Ann’s Library garden. A partnership between Haringey Libraries, Edible London and Volunteer It Yourself, the project has transformed a previously unused space into a flourishing community kitchen and growing garden. The work was partially funded through the first round of the
Mayor’s Grow Back Greener Fund, part of the Mayor’s programme to secure a green recovery from COVID-19. The project has twin aims of tackling food insecurity while providing excellent training for young people. Local families and young people have the chance to use the space to grow and cook their own food, while 14 to 24 year-olds are coached in outdoor activities including construction and gardening. By providing positive opportunities for young people, the project is also helping to steer them away from crime, anti-social behaviour and gangs. Approximately one in six
Haringey pupils are known to be eligible for and claiming free school meals (16 per cent), but provisions are not available out of school hours. This project aims to be up and running in time for their planned summer holiday food programme for children and young people who often have little or no access to healthy food. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the vital importance of Haringey’s green spaces for Londoners’ health and wellbeing. The Edible Library garden is part of the council’s Borough Plan commitment to promote
and improve Haringey’s open and green spaces. Mayor Khan said: “As Mayor, I want London to lead the way in tacking the climate emergency and for all Londoners to be have access to great green spaces close to where they live. The new funding is just the start of even more investment in green spaces, nature and projects to help tackle the climate emergency. “The Cookbook Edible Library project provides an educational, safe space for young people to develop new skills – providing positive opportunities and alternatives to those who might be vulnerable to getting drawn into gangs.”
THE AWARD-WINNING Birmingham-based Sonia Sabri Company is now touring their acclaimed ‘Same Same… But Different’. A show especially for young children and their families, they are visiting 26 libraries and spaces across England, until August 26, including Birmingham and the Black Country. Same Same .. But Different, originally commissioned by Birmingham Hippodrome and The Place, with support from Birmingham Royal Ballet, is the company’s first ever children’s production which received its world premiere at the Hippodrome in 2019. The show mixes Kathak and contemporary dance with live music, beat boxing and physical storytelling to create a playful, colourful world, exploring curiosities and fears, the times we feel different and when we belong. Same Same .. But Different, inspired by the well-known Anglo-Asian phrase ‘same, same...but different’, meaning "Yes, something kind of similar, but not the exact same thing”. ‘Same Same .. But Different’ has been made working in collaboration with a number of primary schools in Birmingham and London. The children’s creative ideas and lived experiences of being different and belonging have been brought into the show.
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INTRODUCING THE
OM ND
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S
treet Cred podcast the school of arts fashion and entertainment. Supporting up and coming individuals within these industries such as Hosts, journalists, musicians, songwriters, designers,gamers and independent businesses. We invite professionals onto our talk shows to educate our followers on what it takes to be in their position. The aim of Streetcred podcast is to give young people a platform to showcase their skills. The platform is to help people to become very skilled in their chosen field with the help of Street Cred . Giving the ins and outs of the industries our shows will feature guests who have a wealth of experience
PROMOTING NEW ARTISTS
New independent fresh talent are creating music everyday and we are the platform to showcase their music by reviewing, interviewing and presenting their music to the public in a professional way i e publish their music and videos on Street Cred website.
COMMUNITY
Talks with organizations who are helping young people keep off the street. Tackling knife/ gun crime and keeping eyes on the growth of disadvantaged areas.
MAKE UP TUTORIALS AND HAIR STYLISTS
Tutorials from young emerging MUAs in the industry and the community.
FILM MAKERS
Behind the scenes of directors of independent film and music videos.
COOKING
Promoting new chefs a n d showing new recipes for people to learn
BUSINESS AND MINDSET COACHES
We will have business leaders and coaches to mentor young aspiring individuals with their business ideas also offering training schemes teaching life skills, communication and how to manage finances.
JOURNALISM
Presenting new radio and TV presenters on our podcast
EVENT PLANNING
Behind the scenes of event Promoters in Theatre, wedding planning, Exhibitions, roadshows, Concerts, Galas, sport an insite and way to be educated to how it is all put together.
FASHION
Showing the new wave of fashion designers and presenting their brand in a professional way.
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MERCEDES-BENZ PREPARES TO GO ALL-ELECTRIC BY 2022 Almost Half Of Motorists Support Making 20mph The New 30mph NEW RESEARCH by IAM RoadSmart, the UK’s largest independent road safety charity, reveals that support for reducing the speed limit on all urban roads from 30mph to 20mph has increased in recent years with almost half of drivers now in favour. Overall, 44% of drivers surveyed agree all current 30mph limits should be replaced with a 20mph limit, a 13% increase from the same representative sample surveyed in 2014. Crucially, areas outside schools were seen as the highest priority for reducing speed limits to 20mph, receiving support from an overwhelming 89% of respondents. The main reasons put forward by supporters of a blanket reduction in the speed limit are to ‘make the roads safer’ (49%) and ‘reduce accidents / saving lives’ (24%). Meanwhile, those against argue that 20mph is too slow and that individual roads or areas should be considered rather than a blanket ban.
M
ercedes-Benz is getting ready to go all electric by the end of the decade, where market conditions allow. Shifting from electric-first to electric-only, the world’s preeminent luxury car company is accelerating toward an emissions-free and softwaredriven future. By 2022, Mercedes-Benz will have battery electric vehicles (BEV) in all segments the company serves.
From 2025 onwards, all newly launched vehicle architectures will be electric-only and customers will be able to choose an all-electric alternative for every model the company makes. Mercedes-Benz intends to manage this accelerated transformation while sticking to its profitability targets. “The EV shift is picking up speed - especially in the luxury segment, where Mercedes-Benz belongs. The tipping point is getting closer and we will be
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ready as markets switch to electric-only by the end of this decade,” said Ola Källenius, CEO of Daimler AG and Mercedes-Benz AG. “This step marks a profound reallocation of capital. By managing this faster transformation while safeguarding our profitability targets, we will ensure the enduring success of MercedesBenz. "Thanks to our highly qualified and motivated workforce, I am convinced that we will be
successful in this exciting new era.” To facilitate this shift, Mercedes-Benz is unveiling a comprehensive plan which includes significantly accelerating R&D. In total, investments into battery electric vehicles between 2022 and 2030 will amount to over €40 billion. Accelerating and advancing the EV portfolio plan will bring forward the tipping point for EV adoption.
Tour de France Winner Receives ŠKODA AUTO Crystal Trophy FOR HIS second overall victory in the Tour de France, Tadej Pogačar received the winner’s trophy, which was designed by ŠKODA AUTO and made of Czech crystal glass, on Sunday on the Champs-Élysées in Paris. The 22-year-old Slovene outshone the competition in what is probably the world’s most demanding cycle race, covering 3.414 kilometres. The all-electric ŠKODA ENYAQ iV once again led the peloton as the command vehicle (‘Red Car’) on the final stage from Chatou to Paris. ŠKODA AUTO has supported the cycling classic as the event’s main partner since 2004. Thomas Schäfer, ŠKODA AUTO CEO, explains: “This is now the 18th year that ŠKODA AUTO has supported the Tour de France as its main partner – and for good reason; the history of our company began over 125 years ago with the production of bicycles. Through our broad engagement – from the lead and support vehicles to the green jersey and the winner’s trophy – we are presenting our brand to an international audience of millions during the cycling classic.”
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most important Rolls-Royce in the world Graces the Concours Of Elegance
T
he Concours of Elegance – famed for gathering together the rarest cars ever created – will showcase the most significant Rolls-Royce ever built at Hampton Court Palace this year. Taking place from 3-5 September, the event is renowned as one of the top three Concours d’elegance events in the world for the quality of cars it attracts; nowhere else in the UK can the public see such a high standard of rare historic vehicles. The 1907 Rolls-Royce 'Silver Ghost’, registration AX201, is a 40/50 HP model, and the very car that gave birth to the now
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E-Scooters Driving Reduction In Carbon Emissions And Better Air Quality In Birmingham ALMOST A THIRD of the 450,000 e-scooter trips taken in Birmingham since a trial was launched in September have replaced car journeys according to a survey of riders. That means an estimated reduction of 66 tonnes of carbon dioxide in Birmingham city centre contributing to the #WM2041 ambition to achieve a net-zero carbon region over the next two decades. According to an e-scooter rider survey 31% of respondents said they would have otherwise used a car to complete their journey – that equated to about 140,000 car journeys at the time of the survey. Details of the positive environmental impact of e-scooters have been issued just as the West Midlands prepares to host the UK100 Net Zero Leaders Summit on July 13 – which brings city leaders together to share best practice on meeting the climate change challenge. Operator Voi, which runs e-scooter hire schemes in major cities all over Europe, was selected last year to run the scheme in the West Midlands.
legendary ‘best car in the world’ moniker, as well as the nickname ‘Silver Ghost’ that was latterly applied to Rolls-Royce 40/50 models officially. It was an exceptional car in period, painted silver with silverplated fittings, and was showcased at the 1907 Scottish Reliability Trials, where it achieved overall victory and subsequently covered 14,371 miles without issue under RAC scrutiny, double the contemporary record. Following this event the car was nicknamed ‘The Silver Ghost’ due to its appearance and uncanny silence. Subsequently, all 40/50 HP chassis cars adopted the Silver Ghost name.
After a lengthy private ownership, the car was returned to Rolls-Royce and underwent repairs between 1948 and 1951, and was subsequently used by Rolls-Royce for publicity. In 1989 the car was fully restored ahead of the 1990 Silver Ghost Charity Tour between John O’Groats and Land’s End. In 1998 the car came into the ownership of Bentley Motors, and finally in 2019, it was released to a private collector in England, and will be shown to the public for the first time in over 20 years at the 2021 Concours of Elegance at Hampton Court.
SENSATIONAL HYBRID SUPERCAR DEFINES THE MASTERY OF DRIVING ASTON MARTIN’S transformational journey takes a huge step forwards with the Valhalla concept car brought to production reality as an extraordinary, truly driverfocused mid-engined hybrid supercar. Led by Aston Martin’s CEO, Tobias Moers, Valhalla is the latest and most significant product of the brand’s Project Horizon strategy to-date; a car which will broaden the model portfolio to reflect Aston Martin’s presence
in Formula One®, set best-inclass standards for performance, dynamics and driving pleasure, and drive the transition from internal combustion to hybrid to full electric powertrains. Aston Martin’s Executive Chairman, Lawrence Stroll said: “Aston Martin’s first series production mid-engined supercar, Valhalla is a truly transformational moment for this ultra-luxury brand. The launch of Valhalla demonstrates Aston Martin’s
commitment to building a range of exceptional mid-engined driver focused cars, a crucial next stage in the expansion of our product line-up. It also seemed fitting to unveil this stunning track biased supercar at the home of motorsport and the home of the Aston Martin Cognizant Formula OneTM Team and marks Aston Martin’s return to the British Grand Prix for the first time in over 60 years, a true milestone.”
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I DIED THREE TIMES TO DO WHAT I DO!
I
t is time that this iconic DJ is celebrated, the man Ricki Tru, owner of the popular Mr Shrimps in Winson Green Birmingham is a success story like no other, although he faced a tragic crash where he technically died 3 times in the ambulance and lost his ankles. This man is determined to be successful and employ young people, as well as feeding the homeless out of his own pocket throughout the pandemic. Read on for a dynamic story of a man that DJ'd with the likes of Frank Bruno and David Rodigan and is truly the seafood boss in the city. This is the man that is all about the new generation, although he was a foster child and never met his parents until he was 16, nothing could distract Ricki Tru from reaching his goal and where he is today. Like you will read in this
interview it is the pain that makes him succeed and being in a wheelchair makes him truly greatful for life.
MD: You're an Iconic DJ that has been around for many years, but where did the name Ricki Tru come from?
RT: People used to call me Likkle Rikki, I built the sound from scratch with Apocalypse, Jacksi said we are going to build the sound and that's where my name come from so I have to pay homage
MD: You were the first and maybe only DJ to play alongside Frank Bruno, how was that experience for you?
RT: Yes at 24 I played with Frank Bruno and that was a massive highlight in my DJ Career. Not many people know this but Frank played sound very well and
I got the pics in my house to prove it. The big champ would come to Coventry and we would set up big dances, many memories were made with Apocalypse sound. Frank and his son used to play sound, he had every dubplate from Babysham Bounty Killa. I think Sammi Jeggae the promoter was the only person that booked this man ever.
MD: How did you get into the food business? I remember hearing you on radio always promoting food companies like Domdine's and it made me want to go there after the clubs.
RT: My Mrs was involved with food and I have been doing it for 10 years. I give food 100 percent like I do my music Remember I was the first to be sponsored by a food shop in Birmingham, I set the trend in that field. In Birmingham I was the official plugger for companies. If you were sending barrels to Jamaica, I was plugging it, any food shop, I even plugged Diamond travel.
MD: I don't think Ricki Tru is celebrated enough why do you think that is?
RT: It's true, knowing where I'm coming from, having no mother, no father and coming from foster parents don't people ever wonder why Ricki never ended up as a murderer or a thief? I have to congratulate myself. I was going into town feeding the homeless from my own pocket not from any funding or from the council. I feel great for the last 2 years what I have done for myself in this wheelchair, what I saw and what I know when I was walking around the place I took things for granted like friendships and life.
MD: Did not having a mother and father have an impact in your life ?
l Ricki Tru with his son, Chef Kano
RT: It always had an impact on me, I see my friends have their moms and dads and have Christmas, birthdays they had people that loved them. I never had an intimate relationship, I didn't know what it was like to have my family. I was in step families and finding out that wasn't my mum or my dad was hard..
l Ricki Tru - Food Boss aka Mr Shrimp I never knew my mother and father until I was 16 whether it had an impact on me or not I don't think about it I got to get on with life bro. Big up Steel Pulse, Dave & Levi Washington who played a heavy role in bringing me up.
MD: You have always been good at supporting yourself and making money where did that hustle come from?
RT: My family would have 4 barrels upstairs and all of them had white rum and we would sell at £15 a bottle, so seeing that at seven years old I knew about making money. So all the rum business people doing now this is what our fam was doing way back. I did a dance with Killa Filla at Ruskin hall made a good amount of money. Promoters booked me from Miami, Guyana, Dubai, Jamaica, Barbados, Antiqua, Rotterdam and America.
MD: Although you had a car crash you still continued to inspire. Where did the strength come from?
RT: Wheelchair cant break me, I'm not that guy to fall apart, some people are proud of their vehicle or material things but when your proud of yourself that is the main thing. I see people with foot and they still cant do anything, before I had the crash I was very ungrateful. When these things happen to you it makes you realize its not about you anymore. I have had 10 operations, they are built on ankles, I don't even remember the crash my body was over there and my feet was elsewhere. They cut my legs open, they took my ankles from out of my leg and I got brand new ankles from a surgeon in Sweden. I not looking for anyone to congratulate me because I congratulate myself, and what makes me proud is my 3 year old sees daddy get up and go to work! Every child should see their
father and mother get up and go to work I believe. When the parents ask your kids what do your parents do its nice that my kids can say my Dad is a Chef and an Entreprenuer. I have successful children, my daughter Farah, Chef Kano, Miss La Familia, they are big people making good decisions. I thank God as he bought me back to raise my youngest daughter who is 3 years old. I died 3 times in the ambulance and thank god they bought me back.
MD: Why is it so important for you to employ young people at Mr Shrimps?
RT: I have so many young lads in my food shop that I don't see others employing, and I don't want them on the road, next stabbing victim or shooting victim.
MD: What do you want people to know about you
RT: That I am an ear and my arms are open.
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WELCOME TO REAL2DATEE
BIRMINGHAM MC WHO SURVIVED CANCER AND LIVING WITH A CHRONIC ILLNESS SHOWING A HOLISTIC APPROACH WITH STREET MUSIC
A
lways good to see young aspiring artists from Birmingham city use their talent to show positivity, many can go the wrong way in life when they have constant negativity around them or they can use traumatic experiences as inspiration to aim higher. Here is Real2daTee his name says it all, this man simply shares his truth and uses his musical platform to help inspire and better the lives of others who are in a dark place. He describes his sound as therapy. not only successful with his EP, Real2daTee has his own health shop online called Troots Holistic selling natural herbs and tonics. We watched his ICEBOX free styles on Youtube and we have to say wow the passion and
delivery of this man really grabs your attention. Real2datee brings powerful verses and the most memorable punchlines....A must see! When I listen to Real2datee rap i feel an adventure, its like you are watching an action movie and he is telling you each scene with captivating lyrics.
All through his verses Real2datee gives you his true self, showing how he lived the road lifestyle but now its about elevation with his kings and queens. It is very easy to glamorise the streets in rap or grime music as that is popular right now but Realt2datee is making an effort to bring conscious music for the streets "My music tells a lot about my history, my traumas and experiences. I would describe it as real conscious rap for the streets. I try not to glamourise the ‘road’ lifestyle, but it played a major part in my life at one point, so I feel obliged to tell that part of my story. My growth is evident, and I am now more in tune with myself and what I want from life sharing my journey, mistakes made,
lessons learned and investing in generational wealth in my music'' Real2datee is using his music to show his personal growth. how he used to blow cash on jewellery and living a fast life, now he is all about investing in business, health and to rise with his kings and queens. 'My lyrics are built from my real raw experiences and I find it therapeutic sharing this through my lyrics. I suffered and overcame a terminal illness at a young age and now living with Multiple Sclerosis which
catapulted me into a holistic lifestyle. "I want to share the message that you can survive anything, you can maintain strength and power through anything, all lessons are blessings and growth is the best gift you can give yourself.
FIND REALTODATEE ON THESE PLATFORMS
Spotify Real2daTee YouTube Real2daTee Instagram Real2da_tee. Mind.body.empower Troots_holistic
Kem Johnson
CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS
Send your stories in to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com
CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS
Page 34 - The Phoenix Newspaper - August 2021
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Major Ruse Play Peggy's Skylight M
Caron Salter-Hill
CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF POSITIVE NEWS
ajor Ruse are gearing up for an exciting year ahead with a residency in Newcastle at Sage Gateshead this Summer where we will be finishing up our debut album and taking part in various music industry masterclasses. They have opened up our Major Ruse Merchandise shop early to a select few with an exciting promotion. The first 12 people to purchase our Major Ruse Merch and send us a selfie rocking whatever you've purchased will win a free signed copy of our album plus two free tickets to our private album Launch Party. They are looking forward to sharing this moment with the lucky winners! “I’d never thought I’d be presenting on radio and have my own weekly show,” Marcus said. “Happy Birthday to Radio2Funky and thank you so much for the opportunity and all that you do for our city of Leicester. Shout out to all the presenters on the station for all the hard work you do and big respect to Vijay for encouraging
me to come on the station to express my love for jazz music and our local community and for providing the foundation for growth. “Last but not least and most importantly thank you to all our listeners and supporters it’s truly appreciated! Here’s to many
To advertise
more birthdays! So, tune in for some good Jazz music and get involved in the conversation with our special guests.... "This album is a body of work that explores themes of personal and external limitations, the idea of what binds us to who and where we are and the
transcendence of perceived obstacles to become our authentic selves." Marcus Joseph & Rob Charles - Wednesday 6-7pm. Radio2Funky 95.0FM Streamed live on Twitch, YouTube & Facebook. Catch up on Spotify, Soundcloud & Amazon Music.
Tom Jones Announces New Tour INTERNATIONAL ICON Tom Jones has announced his epic return to the arena stage in 2021 with the Surrounded By Time Tour. Kicking off in Glasgow at The SSE Hydro on 5 December before travelling to Birmingham’s Utilita Arena and Manchester’s AO Arena before closing at The O2 Arena, London on 9 December. Hot on the heels of Tom Jones’ intimate performance in London this week and following the release of his critically acclaimed number 1 album, a year of many milestones will be taken to new heights with the announcement of the Surround By Time Tour. A discography spanning the decades which has trophied 100 million record sales and countless Grammy, Ivor Novello and Brit Awards – the Surround By Time Tour will be a show not to miss! See the infamous Tom Jones live this December!
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