Street Cred Magazine - December 2019 by Street Cred Magazine

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The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2019 - Page 13

Music fashion Film Gadgets holiday education health and fitness

DECEMBER 2019

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the winner!

CAssandra MAria picks up the street cred next generation award!

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Page 14 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2019

ENTERTAINMENT

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THE HOTTEST ENTERTAINMENT SUPPLEMENT

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John Cleese farce ‘Bangs’ into Wolves for 2020

t has been announced that ‘Bang Bang!,’ a brand new comedy by John Cleese, and starring Tessa PeakeJones, Tony Gardner and Wendi Peters, will be at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre. Cleese makes his stage writing debut with a hilarious new adaptation of this classic comedy – a delicious blend of French Farce and Fawlty Towers - based on Monsier Chasse by Georges Feydeau. When Leontine, a respectable society lady, discovers that she’s been hoodwinked by her husband, Duchotel, who’s always pretending to go hunting but really chasing after other ‘prey’, she vows to take revenge on the

philanderer! But while Duchotel’s away, his lifelong friend comes calling – and he’s on the hunt too. Will Leontine get caught in his sights, or instead set a trap of her own? Secrets unravel as the devilish Duchotel finds himself snared in a door-slamming, trouser-dropping, balcony-climbing night of chaos set amidst the stylish apartments of Paris. Peake-Jones became a household name with her role as Raquel in the iconic comedy ‘Only Fools and Horses’. Her extensive stage work encompasses the National Theatre and RSC, recent credits include ‘The Winslow Boy’ and ‘Shirley Valentine’.

DECEMBER Gig Listings BIRMINGHAM O2 ACADEMY December 01 The Darkness 01 The Midnight Beast - 10th Anniversary Tour 01 Echobelly “Stripped Back” 02 Cavetown 02 Sigrid 03 Wild Front and Polar States 03 Memphis May Fire 05 Sam Fender 06 Bjorn Again 06 The Smyths “Hatful of Hollow” 35th Anniversary Tour 07 UK FOO FIGHTERS (Tribute Band) - Banging On The Ceiling Tour 07 D Block Europe 08 Melanie Martinez: The K-12 Tour 11 Dermot Kennedy 12 COUNTERFEIT. 12 Max & Iggor Cavalera: Return Beneath Arise 13 Catapult ft. Hit The Floor 13 BBMak 13 Daniel Sloss: X 14 The Libertines 15 The Libertines 17 Denis Coleman 20 Thunder - Xmas Show 21 The Wonder Stuff - performing ‘The Eight Legged Groove 21 The Clause 22 Nathan Dawe #0121 31 Twisted Circus NYE

O2 INSTITUTE

December 01 Ride 01-03 Billy Bragg 04 MUNA 04 Clairo 05 Midland 06 The High Contrast Band 06 Catapult Club ft. The Punk Monkeys 06 Elvana: Elvis Fronted Nirvana 07 The Faim 07 The Futureheads 08 J.I.D 08 Dinosaur Pile-Up 10 New Power Generation - Celebrating Prince 11 The Chats 12 Hobo Johnson & The Lovemakers 13 Ghetts 13 Motionless in White 14 Broken Witt Rebels 14 Happy Mondays - Greatest Hits Tour 15 Russ MB 17 Aitch 19 Super Sonix 16+ Xmas Party ft. Mr Traumatik 20 Catapult Club ft. Chuck 20 KNE 22 SLADE - The Rockin’ Home for Christmas Tour 2019 22 The Twang 23 The Twang

Gardner first made his name in comedy as part of the award-winning comedy duo ‘Struck off and Die’. Since then he has appeared on TV in roles ranging from the ‘My Parents are Aliens’ to ‘Last Tango in Halifax’ and on stage in Alan Ayckbourn’s classic ‘Bedroom Farce’. Peters is most widely known for her role as Cilla Battersby in Coronation Street and has just finished appearing in the West End smash-hit musical ‘BIG’ at the Dominion Theatre. ‘Bang Bang!’ will run from Tuesday 12 – Saturday 16 May.

RESORTS WORLD ARENA

December 05 Jim Jefferies The Night Talker Tour

ARENA BIRMINGHAM

December 05-08 Marvel Universe Live! 11 Pete Tong Presents Ibiza Classics 12 Fastlove Arena Tour A Tribute To George Michael 13 Rod Stewart 14 We Love The 90’s The ultimate Christmas party! 18 Alter Bridge 20 Jane McDonald 21 UB40 – Christmas Hometown Show 23-24, 26 Grandpa’s Great Escape THE CHRISTMAS ARENA SPECTACULAR

NEC

December 01 The Art & Antiques for Everyone 01 Baby to Toddler 01 BBC Good Food Show Winter 01-21 Moroccan Fire Nights 2019 01-02 Birmingham Christmas Sale 01 Social in the City: Winter Edition 14-15 Ladies Kennel Association Championship Dog Show 27 Toy Collectors Fair

TOWN HALL & SYMPHONY HALL

December 01 Bach Mass in B Minor 01 Frank Turner And The Sleeping Souls 02 Emeli Sandé 03 The Overtones XMAS 2019 03 No Such Thing as a Fish: The Book of the Year 2019 04 Bring Your Own Baby Comedy Christmas Special

04 CBSO: François Leleux: Mendelssohn 04 Rhod Gilbert: The Book of John 05 Leonardo da Vinci: Shaping the invisible – I Fagiolini 06-07 Dear Santa 06 City of Birmingham Choir - Messiah 06 Stewart Francis: Into the Punset 07 Jazzlines Creative Vocal Group 07 Jazzlines Ensemble 07 Jazzlines Gospel Ensemble 07 Proms Night Spectacular! Greatest Hits - Celebrating 30 Years of the BPSO 08 Snowman at Christmas 09 Lunchtime Christmas Music with the City Organist and Winchester Cathedral Choir 09 Rick Wakeman 09 George Hinchliffe Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain 10 BBC WM Christmas Show 10 G4 Christmas 11 Dweezil Zappa 11 Post-concert Conversation with cellist Pablo Ferrández 12 CBSO: Mirga conducts Brahms 13 Carols for CLIC 13 CBSO: Friday Night Classics - Star Wars 14 Kate Rusby 14 Roy Wood’s Rockmas 15 Christmas Spectacular1 15 Brum Craic - Christmas Special 16 Sing Carols with the City Organist and Lichfield Cathedral Choir 16 Steeleye Span 2019 50Th Anniversary Year 16 Love Actually with Orchestra 17 The Bootleg Beatles 2019 18 Festive Extravaganza - Reggae Philharmonic Orchestra & Guests Music Wassifa 18 CBSO: A Choral Christmas

19 Birmingham Canoldir Male Choir & Phoenix Singers Birmingham 19-20 CBSO: A Choral Christmas 20 That’ll Be The Day - The Christmas Show 21 Christmas Cracker With Aled Jones 21 Talon 22 Families Together For Christmas 22 Now That’s What I Call Christmas 22 Saving Grace featuring Suzi Dian and Robert Plant 23 Christmas Carol Sing Along 24 Carol’s By Candlelight 27 We’re Going On A Bear Hunt 27 Glenn Miller Orchestra 27 Last Night Of The Christmas Proms 28 The Greatest Show Tunes 28 The Best Of John Williams 29 The Music Of Zimmer Vs Williams 30 Beethoven’s Ninth

SLADE ROOMS WOLVERHAMPTON

December 06 Rebecca Downes 07 Under A Banner, The Gift and This Winter... 12 Buzzcocks 13 Joy Division Tribute ‘Transmission’ 14 Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club 18 Slow Readers Club 20 The Future Sound of Wolves Festival 21 BLAST OFF! XMAS PARTY 21 The Future Sound of Wolves Festival 31 Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club NYE!

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The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2019 - Page 15

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ENTERTAINMENT

COMPETITION

We’ve got 4 pairs of tickets to see Star Wars: The Rise Of Skywalker on Saturday 21st December at 19:00 at Odeon LUXE Broadway Plaza Birmingham, answer this simple question.

What is the name of the visual element of Dolby Cinema? a) Dolby Screen b) Dolby Vision c) Dolby Projector Just email your answer, with your name, address, and contact number to competitions@thephoenixnewspaper.com with the subject “Dolby Competition”. Competition closes at 23.59 on 18th December 2019. There is no cash alternative.

It’s The Feeling We’ve Been Missing W

ant to feel the bass in your waist and really be involved in a movie like you are actually taking part in the scene? Then there is no better way than to watch your movies from now on with the Dolby Cinematic Experience which has now been introduced as a new way to view films at Odeon Cinemas. We at Phoenix Newspaper were privileged to be invited to the opening of the new Dolby Cinema Screen, which was an experience like no other. Sat in the Odeon at Broadway Plaza with 3d glasses munching popcorn, during the movie the sound was so amazing that sometimes the popcorn would involuntarily shoot out of the box! Ha! This really is the feeling that’s been needed in Cinema, just when you thought it couldn’t get any better than what we already see today in technology then comes the legendary Dolby Sounds who have given us this new sensation

on the big screens. A premium offering, Dolby Cinema delivers the total cinema experience designed to provide superior sound, picture and environment for any movie. Dolby Vision brings a story alive, delivering a dramatically visual experience with astonishing brightness, incomparable contrast, and captivating colour unlike other cinema experiences. Studio grade Dolby Atmos transports audiences into a movie with breath-takingly realistic, moving audio that fills the room and flows all around you, putting audiences at the center of a story through lifelike depth, detail, and clarity. Every element of Dolby Cinema is designed to transport moviegoers into the on-screen world of the film they are watching. The design of the auditorium, coupled with, Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, creates a truly immersive environment. We previewed a diverse range of short movies so we could get the feel of Dolby Cinema from

concerts to 3D movies like Toy Story. I must say when watching the previews I was thinking wow, I really must see some of my favourites like Fast And Furious in this style and I will really get the feeling. That being said, I may not want to see a horror in Dolby because it may feel a little bit too real for my liking haha, but if you want the ultimate experience in movie watching, then Dolby is for sure the epic experience you need. I am absolutely looking forward to seeing the new Star Wars movie at the Dolby Cinema after having this thrilling time, Dolby has been in partnership with Star Wars since the first film was released, which means it will be the ultimate way to watch the new film. That’s why we’ve got together with Dolby and ODEON Luxe Broadway Plaza in Birmingham to give you the chance to watch the new Star Wars film on the 21st December - enter the competition for a chance to win! Words: Mark Dwayne

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Page 16 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2019

ENTERTAINMENT

Cassandra Maria Is The Next One Coming

he saying in the comedy world is pretty people are not usually funny and looks can go against you but with rising star Cassandra Maria she has changed the whole perception of Pretty girl not funny and is known as pretty girl that is actually very funny. The young aspiring comedian is making big waves on social media in in true demand as a presenter. Her mini comedy videos have caught the attention of thousands of viewers daily and recently she was awarded the Street Cred Next Generation Award presented by Town Hall Symphony Hall at the Phoenix Newspaper Gala. Cassandra Maria is growing to be a true professional in the making followed by big celebrities on her instagram and doing stand up alongside some of the biggest comedians today. ‘I have always been writer and would love to make my own film

m t s i r h C Merry

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A Christmas tree that’s good enough to eat is set to be the must-have decoration this Christmas.

one day says a shy Cassandra ‘I would love to have my own direction and be the type of character I want to be As you know opportunities don’t

come often and you have to create them yourself” Follow instagram.com/ CassandraMariax

Herb-loving shoppers are in for a treat as Waitrose & Partners will once again be stocking rosemary Christmas trees as shoppers look for more environmentally friendly Christmas decorations! Give the Nespresso® coffeelover in your life a conscious caffeine treat this Christmas thanks to the exceptional tasting Blue Goose Eco Coffee Pod Gift Collection. The collection includes a

The alternative Christmas trees proved a popular purchase last year as environmentally conscious consumers looked for a multi-purpose tree that could be re-used, whether that’s planting them in the garden or as a festive gift for foodie friends and family. Waitrose - £15

range of certified PlasticFree, compostable pods full to the brim with exceptional tasting, speciality Arabica coffees. No boast, the UK’s leading consumer champion magazine gave the Ethiopian Yirgacheffe pods a ‘Best

Buy’ accolade in the first week of going on sale, with judges loving the fruity acidity, toasty aroma and characterful sweetness of the coffee. £18.00 for 40 capsules

y r r u f e h t t e g r Don’t fo You can treat your pets this Christmas whether they’re creatures great or small with the fantastic range of pet presents at Pets At Home!

Velvet Bow Tie For Cats - £5 Reindeer Hat - £5 Large Dog Stocking - £10 Cat Stocking - £4

9th Anniversary Special ! e n o y r e v ,E tmasCelebratory Supplement

The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2019 - Page 17

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If you’re crazy for all things Minecraft, then you must pick up The Independent and Unofficial Top Trumps Guide to Minecraft. This pack contains all your favourite mobs, from the common Creeper and nether-dwelling Blaze, to

WORLD OF SPORTTop Trumps Quiz Test your knowledge on all things Sports with 500 questions on

the dancing Parrots and rare Killer Bunny. Challenge your friends and family to guess which mob is tallest, widest or the most likely to attack! But the ultimate question is

a variety of sports from cycling to football and rugby to swimming. Comes in a cool, plastic portable case with 500 questions on everything

which will have the highest Top Trumps Rating? Could it be Wither, Enderman or maybe even Polar Bears? There’s only one way to find out, get your pack now! £4.99 at Amazon.co.uk

Sports related! £9.99 - Amazon.co.uk

Holding y! familThe World In Their Hands Inspiring The Next Generation

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Page 18 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2019

ENTERTAINMENT THE PHOENIX NEWSPAPER 9TH ANNIVERSARY GALA DINNER AND AWARDS

Spreading The Love

ar exceeding what was said to be the city’s greatest multi-cultural awards celebrations, The Phoenix Newspaper 9th Anniversary Gala Dinner & Awards Masquerade Ball, according to many observers, went far and above that which went before. In association with the CTO (Caribbean Tourism Organisation), the 2019 edition, another ‘Royal’ affair, and again held at Birmingham’s International Convention Centre, saw some of the biggest figures in the field of business, entertainment politics, health, sport and many others again gathered to be honoured and celebrated in a style that has always been unique to the only newspaper that highlights positive, informative and objective news of every community throughout Birmingham & The West Midlands, Nationally and Internationally. Introduced by the CTO’s

Communications Specialist, Johnson JohnRose and budding young presenter and broadcaster Rebbecca Hemmings, the great and the good were in attendance to applaud, and be applauded for, the work they do towards greater community cohesion. The royal presence included His Royal Highness Nene Tetteh Ayiku Abordonu IV of Ghana, Her Royal Highness Queen Diambi of the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Bantu Descendant of Brazil, HRH Princess Moradeun Adedoyin-Solarin and HRH Toyin Onegoruwa Founders & Royal Members, The New PanAfrican Movement, and the High Commissioner for Jamaica in the UK, His Excellency Seth Ramocan, CD who was so supportive in acknowledging that Marcia is a daughter of Jamaican soil, and Deputy High Commissioner Angella Rose-Howell, chair of the African Legacy Fund and Marcia’s mentor Dr Toni Luck, Mamma T, who flew in from South Africa to be there on the night. Getting the evening going, Dr Marcia McLaughlin F. B i r m . Soc, the

founder and Editor In Chief of The Phoenix Newspaper, gave a welcoming speech to the full house by talking about the unequalled existence and success. “With 2019 seeing the expansion and development of our worldwide online presence, it has proved to be a huge year for our achievement and awareness for The Phoenix Newspaper”, she said, “with our launch and increased presence in London and our constant need to engage locally, nationally and internationally. “The CTO has been an integral part of our readership, and development, across the Caribbean and the Americas. “This year has been an amazing blessing for me, in particular”, she said, “after being bestowed with a Honorary Doctor of Letters by Newman University, which I accepted with great pride, thanks and praise – especially to God Almighty who blessed me with the talent to reach this goal.” Going on she said: “And, how great it is to be in a position to spread the love – which, in turn, ensues the respect that is passed on through the generations”. On a night t h a t celebrated youth

empowerment and the next generation, it was great to see the likes of November’s Front Page feature, Keisha Riley taking centre stage. Young Keisha highlighted her araldite, articulate and highly thought-provoking oratory skills by kickingoff a line of equally high profile speakers by stating just how proud and moved she was to be:- the standout feature and front page. Giving a rousing, up-lifting speech, she said: “I was incredibly proud to be frontpage story The Phoenix Newspaper. “I am going to be a heart surgeon”, she said with great determination and vigour. “But, until then, I am grateful and proud to be able to impress my poems onto the general public”. Gelling all present in the hall in the mood, they were ready for a grand night of celebrations.

Continued on Page 22

l Top: Selena Carty, Black Poppy Rose, Rebbecca Hemmings and Johnson JohnRose, CTO

l High Commissioner for Jamaica, HE Seth George Ramocan, Deputy Mayor of Birmingham, Cllr Yvonne Mosquito, Paul Ramsey, McDonald’s Franchisee, Deputy Lieutenant of the West Midlands, David Clarke, Carol Hay, CTO, Don Campbell, TNCMC,

The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2019 - Page 19

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THE PHOENIX NEWSPAPER 9TH ANNIVERSARY GALA DINNER AND AWARDS l Left: Marcia McLaughlin, Founder/CEO The Phoenix Newspaper. Right: HRH Nene Tetteh Ayiku Abordonu IV, Queen Diambi of the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Bantu Descendants of Brazil

Dr Neslyn Watson-Druee, Keith Stokes-Smith, BCA/GBCCC, Dr Paresh Rughani, Mayor of the West Midlands, Andy Street CBE, Leslie Fairclough, Inspire You, Richard Loftus, Town Hall Symphony Hall.

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ENTERTAINMENT THE PHOENIX NEWSPAPER 9TH ANNIVERSARY GALA DINNER AND AWARDS

Elegance A

The Royal Households of HRH Princess Mor of The Royal House of Oba Adedoyin Akarigb Sagamu Remo Kingdom and HRH Princess T Philip Onagoruwa Elesi II, Monarch & Param

The Royal Air Force shows

The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2019 - Page 21

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THE PHOENIX NEWSPAPER 9TH ANNIVERSARY GALA DINNER AND AWARDS

At Its Best

radeun Adedoyin-Solarin, direct descendant bo Anoko II, Monarch & Paramount Ruler of Toyin Onagoruwa of The Royal House of Oba mount Ruler of Odogbolu Kingdom

s everyone how itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s done

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ENTERTAINMENT THE PHOENIX NEWSPAPER 9TH ANNIVERSARY GALA DINNER AND AWARDS

A Dignified Ro

l Professor Martin Levermore MBE DL Medical Devices Technology Limited, Ms Michele Taylor, Dr Toni Luck, Ch Deputy Lieutenant David Clarke, HRH Nene Tetteh Ayiku Abordonu IV, Queen Diambi of the Democratic Republic Phoenix Newspaper, High Commissioner For Jamaica Seth George Ramocan, Satinder Kaur Taunque OBE DL, Leslie Taunque, Tashna-Kaye Howell and Dr Neslyn Watson Druee, Chairman of The Phoenix Newspaper Continued from Page 18

l Dr Toni Luck, Chair Africa Legacy Fund

Also in attendance were Phoenix Chairman Dr Neslyn Watson-Duree, the Mayor of the West Midlands, Andy Street CBE who has always been a staunch supporter of the newspaper, West Midlands Deputy Lieutenant, David Clarke, Birmingham Deputy Lord Mayor Yvonne Mosquito, Victoria Mutual Building Society’s Chief Representative Officer and longtime friend of the newspaper, Leighton Smith, as well as internationally renowned motivational speaker Dr Paresh Rughani. And so, it would prove to be an exceedingly brilliant and hugely memorable event as Deputy Lieutenant David Clarke called it: “A privilege to be at”. “With 2022 fast approaching and all our minds turn to the Commonwealth Games, Birmingham’s rich diversity will make all the athletes who visit our city feel very much at home. “Birmingham” he said, “truly is a commonwealth city and The Phoenix truly is a commonwealth newspaper. “Sincere congratulations to The Phoenix Newspaper”, he said. Keith Stokes-Smith, Chairman of the BCA went on to say: “This city (Birmingham) is culturally and ethnically diverse, with 33% of the citizens belonging to the Commonwealth. And, as such, we at the BCA fully back The Phoenix Newspaper and their community links.” Birmingham City Honorary

Amorist and heraldry speaker Adrian de Redman, Satinder Kaur Taunque OBE, DL, Dr Jagiit Singh Tauque MBE DL, Professor Martin Levermore MBE DL, Delores Cooper OD, and many other highly noted figures, the gathering, of such a cultural cross-section and of high intensity – in any one venue - in Birmingham, was one to behold and remember. TPN Media Chairman, Dr Neslyn Watson-Druee, added: The Phoenix Newspaper is all about inspiring the next generation. “We set the standard where all the different communities can look at themselves with pride. With its sister publication, Street Cred Magazine, celebrating all that is inspiring in young people, it remains steadfast at the forefront”. Deputy Lord Mayor Cllr Yvonne Mosquito added her heartfelt views by saying: “If ever you wanted to be uplifted, what better way to do so than by reading The Phoenix Newspaper. “Thank you, Dr Marcia, Last year was absolutely brilliant, but this year was even greater”. The theme for the night was Spreading The Love, and it was evident that everyone who was a part of the night was overflowing with love to give, leaving the entire room in a happy buzz for the whole night, as the attention turned to the winners of the awards, “If you want to read about humanity, read The Phoenix Newspaper”, host JohnRose, in turn, added, who last year stated that The Phoenix Newspaper was the 8th Wonder of the World. Noted McDonalds Foods franchisee, Paul Ramsey, went further: “As a McDonalds franchisee, being associated with The Phoenix Newspaper adds to my 40-years of inspiring children and young people. I, like them, want to ‘inspire before I retire’. “The work carried out by Dr Marcia, and her dedicated team, is ‘inspiration’ personified”. Representing Town Hall & Symphony Hall, Richard Loftus, Director of Sales & Marketing took the opportunity to talk of the massive steps they have made in

engaging in all citizens saying: “Town Hall & Symphony Hall introduces thousands upon thousands of people through its doors every year. “For over 10-years we have been inspiring people of all ages and backgrounds to worldwide success. “And The Phoenix Newspaper Anniversary Gala Dinner & Awards Show, again, is paramount to our ongoing success and has allowed us to tell everyone of that”. In his keynote address, High Commissioner Seth George Ramocan added: “Dr Marcia can’t do ‘ordinary’. “I know what love is – and Dr Marcia represents all that is ‘love’, She paints the right kind of image that is lacking elsewhere”. Presenting the Jamaican-born mogul with flowers, he went on to speak from the heart – stating. “Dr Marcia has gone beyond the ‘ordinary’.” American-born Dr Toni Luck (Mamma T) – who has been living and working in Africa for a number of years, now, went on: “It was a great honour and privilege to be part of these celebrations. And, in answer to that Tina Turner classic, love has ‘everything’ to do with it as demonstrated here – and Dr Marcia has proved to be the ‘harbour of peace’! “In a world that’s full of troubles, we all need Dr Marcia and The Phoenix Newspaper. It’s proving to be an amazing miracle”. As all intently listened to the orator, she went on: “How blessed I am, and all of you are, to be able to witness a marvel that is The Phoenix Newspaper – LONG LIVE THE PHOENIX NEWSPAPER!!!”

The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2019 - Page 23

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THE PHOENIX NEWSPAPER 9TH ANNIVERSARY GALA DINNER AND AWARDS

oyal Reception

hairman, Africa Legacy Fund, Mrs Nicky Clarke, Keith Stokes-Smith - Chairman Birmingham Comonwealth Association, of Congo and the Bantu Descendants of Brazil, Dr Marcia McLaughlin F.Birm.Soc Editor In Chief and Founder of The e Fairclough, Inspire You, Dr. Jagjit Singh Taunque MBE DL, Deputy High Commissioner Angella Rose-Howell, Mandip For Queen Diambi, she was incredibly honoured to be a Special Guest, saying: “It was with immense honour that I attended The Phoenix Newspaper Gala Dinner & Awards Ceremony. “I wholeheartedly commend Dr Marcia and her whole team for keeping the pulse of the African Descendants community in Birmingham and beyond, and its dedication in being a beacon of light and a source of pride for all of us”. With performances on the night by the likes of award-winning international superstar singer, and Birmingham-born Apache Indian, who celebrated 30 years of success in the music industry with a blowout performance, and the delightfully sounding Patricia Panton lightening-up an already electrifying night; “It’s like a night in Hollywood”, Patricia enthused. Apache, enhancing the elevated level of what truly is the biggest show of its kind in the pantheon of major Awards

shows, went on to say: “Being part of The Phoenix Newspaper Awards night really and truly made me feel like ‘I did it’ “And that’s despite the fact that I have been performing and winning awards around the world for decades. But, to be recognised by a major news outlet like The Phoenix was mind-blowing, and to see that no-one wanted to leave was humbling”. With the 5-night, all-inclusive holiday to The Bahamas (courtesy of the CTO and Warwick) the top raffle prize, won by Uton Lear of Lear Print, it was an unbelievable night of 5-Star raffle prizes, auctions and more. Mr Yasir Abu-Omar and Dr Arvind Rajasekaran, the surgeons who saved the life of The Phoenix Champion Award winner Michael Willis were praised by Marcia for the amazing work they do, not just for Michael, but for humanity. The L.A.B. Dolls represented our Youth

Empowerment and we need to ensure that we continue to utilise and support grassroots operations so they can develop confience in themselves. The beautiful Black Poppy Rose Masquerade Girls were in stunning full outfit, really adding a beautiful sparkle to the night as the awards started to flow. There were some memorable speeches from the award winners on the night, not least from G-Man who brought Marcia up onto the stage to commend and remind her of the first break into journalism that she offered to him back in the 90’s with her first title Enterprise Newspaper, (boldly going where no man has gone before) which has lead him to where he is today, continuing her legacy and inspiring the youth. You can see the full list of winners on pages 26 and 27.

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ENTERTAINMENT THE PHOENIX NEWSPAPER 9TH ANNIVERSARY GALA DINNER AND AWARDS

Our Raffle Winners

A Touch Of Masq

The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2019 - Page 25

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THE PHOENIX NEWSPAPER 9TH ANNIVERSARY GALA DINNER AND AWARDS

querade Sparkle

l Selina Carty, Black Poppy Rose, Winner Uton Lear, Lear Printers, Cynthia Turner, Warwick Paradise Island & Carol Hay, Caribbean Tourism Organisation

The Grand Raffle Winner

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Page 26 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2019

ENTERTAINMENT THE PHOENIX NEWSPAPER 9TH ANNIVERSARY GALA DINNER AND AWARDS

Congratulations To This Years Winners!

l International Excellence Award 2019 - Atuu Embrace

l DJ/Presenter Of The Year Award 2019 - G-Man

l Windrush Award 2019 - Blue Marlin

l Leadership And Empowerment Award 2019 - Nicole Riley

l Charity Of The Year Award 2019 - The Prince’s Trust

l Community Engagement Award 2019 - Dave ‘Big Dave’ Gauder

l Veteran Award 2019 - Mykal ‘Wassifa’ Brown

l Championing Diversity Award 2019 - Birmingham REP

l Educational Excellence Award 2019 - BCU

l Business Of The Year 2019 - Ginger Tree Boutique l People’s Choice Award 2019 - Nathan Dennis

l Entrepreneur Of The Year Award 2019 - Kem Unisex Salon

l Street Cred Next Generation Award 2019 Cassandra Maria

l International Excellence Award 2019 - Becky Humphries

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The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2019 - Page 27

THE PHOENIX NEWSPAPER 9TH ANNIVERSARY GALA DINNER AND AWARDS

Lifetime Achievement

l Editors Award 2019 - Caron Salter-Hill

l The Phoenix Newspaper Lifetime Achievement Award 2019 - Delores Cooper OD

l Adopted Jamaican Award 2019 - Garry Peal

Editors Special Awards Presentation 2019

l Phoenix Champion Award 2019 - Michael Willis

l Special Presentation - Jagruti Duggal

l Emissary of Peace Award 2019 - Dr Toni Luck

l Special Presentation - Angel Foundation

l Presentation to Nicky Clarke, Wife of the Deputy Lieutenant

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Page 28 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2019

ENTERTAINMENT THE PHOENIX NEWSPAPER 9TH ANNIVERSARY GALA DINNER AND AWARDS

Tenna Star

More Culture

Boom Shac

The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2019 - Page 29

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THE PHOENIX NEWSPAPER 9TH ANNIVERSARY GALA DINNER AND AWARDS

Apache indian

ck-A-Lack!

Patricia panton

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Page 30 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2019

ENTERTAINMENT THE PHOENIX NEWSPAPER 9TH ANNIVERSARY GALA DINNER AND AWARDS

The Phoenix Newspaper gave some young photographers through Inspire You the chance to document the 9th Anniversary Celebrations. Here are a selection of the photographs that they captured on the night! Photo Credits: Nathaniel Davidson

The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2019 - Page 31

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THE PHOENIX NEWSPAPER 9TH ANNIVERSARY GALA DINNER AND AWARDS

thank you to our sponsors

ANNIVERSARY

Gala Dinner And Awards MASQUERADE BALL In association with HEadline Sponsor supported by

Thank you for a wonderful 9th anniversary

would like to thank the CTO for their association with The Phoenix Newspaper for our 9th Anniversary Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony.

years. He is a sincere human being.

Richard Loftus of Town Hall Symphony Hall for his belief in our diversity and connections with the wider community.

Rebbecca Hemmings and Johnson Johnrose for being great comperes on the nigh

Leighton Smith Chief Representative Officer,Victoria Mutual, Jamaica’s leading financial institution setting trends in a global scale.

Thanks to Mo Naheem Ash of Motions Media, our official videographer for The Phoenix Newspaper Gala Awards.

Grace Foods UK, a household name with decades of experience being a part of brand Jamaica.

Leslie Fairclough, Inspire You for being our headline sponsor and future partners.

Paul Ramsey, McDonald’s franchisee for his continued support . Professor Paul Brown of EY Accounting for being a splendid mentor and friend. Keith Stokes-Smith, Chair of Birmingham Commonwealth Association of which Phoenix newspaper is proudly a patron.

We’ll See You Next Year for our 10th anniversary!

Adrian de Redman, always there to uplift fantarta style.

I would like to give a massive thank you to Newman University for bestowing on me the honour of a Doctor of Letters for the work that I have done over the years.

Thank you to Dee Burrowes for your support since connecting with me. The RAF for ongoing support including our Black History Month event. Deputy Lord Lieutenant David Clarke and his wife for attending on behalf of the Lord Lieutenant.

Garry Peal of Birmingham City Council for giving us maximum support and commitment.

Amazing Performances from Headline artist, the exclusive Apache Indian - International Reggae Star celebrating 30 years in the business.

Dr Neslyn Watson-Druee another true mentor and chair to The Phoenix Newspaper.

Stunning performances from Patricia Panton Tenna Star, More Culture and Keisha Riley.

Dr Toni Luck, my mummy and mentor all the way over there in South Africa. Deserving recipient of the Emissary of Peace international award. Those who know of her will understand the spiritual power behind this peace maker and mother of 17 children.

Mark Dwayne, my dear son who has stood by me through thick and thin.

Peter Waite, K.G. Miles Opticians, a true friend and supporter. Mayor of the West Midlands, Andy Street CBE for his continued support over the

Mark is the promotion arm to The Phoenix Newspaper, social media specialist Street Cred Magazine and Swish TV. Mr Daniel Riley, Assistant Editor, Dazola Productions, designers and layout of The Phoenix Newspaper. Last but by no means least, the one and only Mr Phoenix himself, Steve Williams. Our sincere thanks goes out to HRH Nene Tetteh Ayiku Abordonu IV. It was my pleasure to host and honour you as one of the Ghana Royal households. Queen Diambi of the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Bantu Descendants of Brazil, your love and compassion was evident on the night. And thanks to you, the people for the love you show us.

2020 Vision m t s i r h C Merry thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 32 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2019

A Christmas tree that’s good enough to eat is set to be the must-have decoration this Christmas. Herb-loving shoppers are in for a treat as Waitrose & Partners will once again be stocking rosemary Christmas trees as shoppers look for more environmentally friendly Christmas decorations!

Give the Nespresso® coffeelover in your life a conscious caffeine treat this Christmas thanks to the exceptional tasting Blue Goose Eco Coffee Pod Gift Collection. The collection includes a

Buy’ accolade in the first week of going on sale, with judges loving the fruity acidity, toasty aroma and characterful sweetness of the coffee. £18.00 for 40 capsules

y r r u f e h t t e g r Don’t fo

anniversary

You can treat your pets this Christmas whether they’re creatures great or small with the fantastic range of pet presents at Pets At Home!

of hope

Velvet Bow Tie For Cats - £5 Reindeer Hat - £5 Large Dog Stocking - £10 Cat Stocking - £4

Save the date - 19th September 2020

! e n o y r e v tmas, E

The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2019 - Page 33

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WORLD OF SPORTTop Trumps Quiz Test your knowledge on all things Sports with 500 questions on

family!

the dancing Parrots and rare Killer Bunny. Challenge your friends and family to guess which mob is tallest, widest or the most likely to attack! But the ultimate question is

a variety of sports from cycling to football and rugby to swimming. Comes in a cool, plastic portable case with 500 questions on everything

which will have the highest Top Trumps Rating? Could it be Wither, Enderman or maybe even Polar Bears? There’s only one way to find out, get your pack now! £4.99 at Amazon.co.uk

Sports related! £9.99 - Amazon.co.uk

ENTERTAINMENT

Birmingham Hippodrome joins The Big Give campaign

i r m i n g h a m Hippodrome is urging people to dig deep during their annual festive fundraising campaign, aiming to raise £20,000 to give the gift of theatre to 4,000 young people. To achieve this ambitious target, the theatre has joined The Big Give’s Christmas Challenge 2019, which will see all donations doubled for just seven days from the 3rd December. The donations raised will support the Hippodrome Education Network (HEN) activity, which enables young people from areas of low-social economic engagement to visit shows, participate in workshops and develop career opportunities in the creative industries. Zaylie- Dawn Wilson, Head of Learning & Participation at Birmingham Hippodrome commented: “We work with schools to bring creativity back to the curriculum and to enable young people who have never visited the theatre before to watch live performances” “Donations raised will help us to give the gift of live theatre

to more young people and continue this crucial work which develops confidence in young people, supports their future career ambitions and most of all, inspires them.” The Big Give matches donations through partnerships with over 20 funding champions, including Reed Foundation, The Childhood Trust, Four Acre Trust and the National Lottery Heritage Fund. As an independent charity, Birmingham Hippodrome relies

on regular support from charitable donations and sponsorship to deliver Hippodrome Projects, which is the theatre’s own curated programme of indoor and outdoor live performance, community work and transformational learning projects. Donations for the campaign can be made online only. To donate from 12 noon on the 3 December, visit: www. birminghamhippodrome.com/ biggive2019

thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 34 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2019

ENTERTAINMENT

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Shilangu Mixing It Up!

rime DJ ‘Shilangu’ hails from Croydon in South London, arguably the epicenter of grime and UK garage in the early 2000s. As a young ‘bedroom DJ’ Shilangu started construction of visceral grime mixes that rapidly caught the attention of local grime legend ‘MIK’. As MIK could see the potential within the young DJ, MIK, regularly conversing with Shilangu over MSN (shout out to everybody over the ages of 20) he sent MIK a practice mix, this later on would cement MIK’s theory that the young lad from Croydon was on the rise. MIK later, invited the young DJ over to ‘AXE FM’ to showcase his talent live on air. This, as it turns out was a steep learning curve for the young DJ as he crashed and burnt live on air, "I met up with him and he took me there, I FAILED SO HARD! The chat box was brutal, it was a serious ‘L’ (shout outs to everyone under the age of 20) but MIK said to me just get better because I have potential" and get better he did. With the recent fail at the forefront of his mind, Shilangu impressively took this energy and used it as fuel to elevate himself to become so masterful at his craft, he would never have to go through that disappointing experience again. Practising around the clock perfecting his art, he went onto securing around 20 slots over the course of a few years on local pirate radio stations from London to St Albans. Manic FM, Axe FM, Urban FM TV and React FM to name just a few, unfortunately with outside problems arising, this acted as a distraction and a catalyst as a viscous lump of

depression, slowly veering him away from his love, everything would eventually amalgamate into chaos... something had to give, wrestling with his mental health eventually leading to a serious break down, he became a shell of his former self and sadly, fell out of love with everything. With mental health becoming a very real issue in his life, the slow, up hill struggle took a long time to pass "It took me around 7 years to build me and my life back up again, then I slowly started falling back in love with Grime, Music and Mixing again". With his mind healing, alarm bells within himself started ringing "I always had that ‘what if’ voice in my head, so (rhymes with Duck) it, I’m not getting any younger!" Quickly becoming musically ‘match fit’ Shilangu secured a spot on the infamous ‘Mode FM’. Struggling at first, he became stronger with his music mixing, rapidly picking back up where he left off. Always having a passion for music, Shilangu recalls his favourite CDs and inspirations growing up "I’ve always had a passion for music from a young age, my favourite CDs were ‘DJ EZ’s’ UKG mixes in the 2000s". With the relentless stream of music catching his ears this naturally gave way to the young lad asking for a pair of Vinyl Decks for Christmas, with his uncle being a DJ, it was a natural step for a young Shilangu practicing at higher tempos to make it harder to mix "I wanted to practice my socks off to get good!". Encouraging his passion for music was his loving family, with his Mother and Brother being his biggest supporters, he recalls "the fact my mom wasn’t always

on my back telling me to peruse another career was testament to my DJ-ing, she understood my passion and desire to making a success of being a grime DJ". Further reinforcing his nack for mixing were the people he performed to, with the crowd being super positive when he mixes, being as consistent as possible is key "I try to make the vibe stay as high as possible to make an impact with listeners", a impact it was, this is how Shilangu came on my radar! Right now, Shilangu has a guest mix on ‘RudeKids’ Grime show on Kiss FM which will have aired by the time this article is out, finally getting his foot in the door at KISS to showcase his talent as one of the best in the industry. It’s clear that Shilangu is a unstoppable force, proving this musically and mentally, Grime music makes him feel at home "It makes me feel Happy, Excited, and Smiley! And has given me so much, I do thank Grime for helping me get back to myself again". With aspirations of Being a DJ on big shows, being a host, and a general personality Shilangu’s work rate is testament to reaching these accolades.

Anything you’d like to add?

"Massive thank you to Alien! (You’re welcome) and just keep following my journey on my socials! You can catch my guest mix for KISS FM on my YouTube channel! Watch out for me, I’m here to stay!" #SHILANGUSESSIONS Socials Twitter - @SHILANGU_DJ Instagram - shilangu_dj And don’t forget to check out Alien Muzik on Twitter @Alien_Muzik, and on Instagram - alien_muzik

Interviews

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The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2019 - Page 35

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ENTERTAINMENT

Shakespears Sister Ride Again By Mandip Singh Taunque

hakespears Sister made the dreams of thousands of fans come true as they made a triumphant return to the stage during their ‘Ride Again’ tour which began on Halloween night. Fans like me would have been too young to go to a Shakespears Sister when they hit the big time first time round and missed out on seeing them when they split during the height of their fame in the early 90s. The group made up of Siobhan Fahey and Marcella Detroit announced their reunion back in May and immediately created a buzz by announcing the release of their stunning compilation album titled ‘Singles Party (1988-2019). The album reached number 14 on release in August giving the group their first top 20 album since their hugely successful second album,

‘Hormonally Yours’, in 1992. Playing their penultimate show in Birmingham’s stunning Symphony Hall on 19th November, fans waited patiently for Siobhan and Marcy to come on stage and when they did, the atmosphere was electric. With both ladies playing guitars, the show opened with their 1991 hit ‘Goodbye Cruel World’ to rapturous cheers and applause. The setlist covered all their biggest hits including their top 10 debut single ‘You’re History’, ‘I Don’t Care’ and their most iconic single ‘Stay’ as well as fan-favourite album tracks. Interestingly the ladies opted to not have ‘Stay’ as their final track much to the surprise of fans. Instead it was sandwiched between the gothic and moody ‘Black Sky’ and ‘Are We In Love Yet’. The show was not only for nostalgia. The group have written and recorded several new tracks for both their Singles Party compilation album and more recently their ‘Ride Again EP’ which was released in early November. Fans couldn’t get enough of new tracks ‘All The Queen’s Horses’ and ‘When She Finds You’ which was recorded with Richard Hawley who also made a special guest appearance to perform with the group in Birmingham. Super fans also got to meet the group during pre-arranged meet and greets with some travelling from Germany just to see the ladies. For me it was a dream come true. It is said you shouldn’t meet

your idols, but these glam rock gothic ladies were so lovely to talk to and their auras just shone. The reunion between Siobhan and Marcy was as much about their friendship as their music. They didn’t talk for 26 years following the split in the early 90s but after soul searching, forgiveness and being just downright good souls, they patched up their differences. They showed that life is too short to hold grudges and having big egos. Both are massive talents in their own right but its captivating when they are together. If their most recent releases are anything to go by, they will be staying for a long time to come. 5/5

l Special guest Richard Hawley joins Shakespears Sister on stage to perform new track ‘When She Finds You’

l Above: Marcella Detroit left, Mandip centre, Siobhan Fahey right.

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Page 36 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2019

ENTERTAINMENT MOTORS

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Mazda3 Named Women’s World Car Of The Year Get Your Skates On!

nnounced at the 2019 Dubai International Motor Show on the 16th November, the Mazda3 has been named “Supreme Winner” at the 2019 Women’s World Car of the Year awards. In addition to taking the top award, the model also won

Women’s World Family Car of the Year. Established in 2010, Women’s World Car of the Year is voted on by a panel of female judges from over 30 different countries (two from the UK) who are asked to vote according to factors that include safety, value for money, aesthetic

appearance, practicality and environmental footprint. Mazda’s focus on Japanese mastery inspired craftsmanship is evident in both high-class materials found throughout the interior and the impressive build quality. All models feature a seven-inch colour TFT driver instrument display, while the

latest version of the Mazda Connect infotainment system features a larger 8.8-inch central display, improved navigation and a revised multimedia commander control dial, to name just a few of the enhancements.

Motorpoint is urging people to get their skates on and head to its Castleford branch this Christmas to ice skate for free. The UK’s leading car supermarket has once again teamed up with The Prince of Wales Hospice to build an ice skating rink at its five acre branch on Whistler Drive near J32 Outlet Centre and Xscape at Christmas. The ice skating rink will be open on Saturday, December 21 between 9am – 6pm and Sunday, December 22 between 10am and 5pm. There is ample free parking onsite, free Wi-Fi as well as a wide selection of hot and cold food and drinks available to purchase at the Motorpoint Café. What’s more, a number of local businesses will be exhibiting at the event on both days to give visitors the opportunity to purchase last minute stocking fillers while the Castleford Tigers players have agreed to participate in a special ‘Selection Box Treasure Hunt’ on Saturday, December 21. Motorpoint is a long-standing supporter of The Prince of Wales Hospice raising over £25,000 for the popular Hospice

since 2016 which supports adults with life limiting illnesses in the Five Towns area. “Christmas can be an expensive time of year for families,” explained Mick MartinRoebuck, General Manager of Motorpoint Castleford. “This is why we decided to build an ice rink so people of all ages from the Five Towns area can pop down to skate for free. We look forward to welcoming everyone to Motorpoint Castleford between December 21-22.” Tracey Mearns, Partnership Development Co-ordinator at The Prince of Wales Hospice, added: “We are delighted and grateful that the Ice Rink is back for what will be it’s third year at Motorpoint Castleford. “It’s such a great event for all the family to get into the festive spirit as well as raising vital funds to support patient care through donations collected by our volunteers at Motorpoint. “We can’t thank the team at Motorpoint as well as visitors enough for their ongoing support of this event which we hope this year will raise over £3,000.”