The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020

Promoting Diversity for Birmingham Commonwealth Games 2022

NOVEMBER 2020

Connecting Communities - Inspiring A New Generation

Legend Lewis breaks world record H

aving broken the all-time record for career Formula 1 race victories by winning the Eifel Grand Prix, in Portugal, Lewis Hamilton’s win was the 92nd of his career breaking Michael Schumacher’s Formula 1 winning record too.

But, the Mercedes man’s ‘drive’ off the track is proving greater that the domination achievements his making on it.

With a seventh world title which equals another Schumacher

record – beckoning, Schumacher’s son Mick presented Hamilton with one of his father’s old helmets, from his last F1 season with Mercedes in 2012, to recognise the Brit’s achievement.

As he continues to raise his sporting immortality to even greater heights, away from the circuit, Hertfordshire-born Hamilton is using his fame and status for good with a list of causes that he is backing in a big way.

Continued on Page 10

Inside This Month

Charity fundraiser, Kishor, goes ‘above and beyond’ - Page 12

Marcus Rashford Free School Meals Campaign - Page 3

Love And Respect To All Of Our Hardworking

2020 Vision Of Hope

Page 2 - The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020

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NEWS

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Deal or No Deal: Who Wants A Brexit Deal?

By Dr Tony Talburt

T telephone

0121 339 5885 0208 865 1922

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he members of the European Union (EU) and the UK are currently trying to agree a trade deal that would start on I January 2021.

However, both sides are deadlocked with the UK negotiators claiming that the EU seem to be trying to put them into a corner without offering key concessions, while the EU says the UK is acting in an unreasonable manner, with a take it or leave approach.

But can the UK afford to simply walk away from the EU trading bloc with no deal?

One of the recent issues causing significant disagreement between the two parties is the Common Fisheries Agreement.

In short, once the UK leaves the EU membership, the EU is asking to be able continue to have access to significant fishing rights on UK waters for at least a transition period from January 2021.

The UK, however, feels this is somewhat inconsistent in that they would be treated as a third party with regard to most other trade deals, but not for this area of the fishing trade.

The UK also appears to be interested in a ‘Canada-type’ trade arrangement with the EU. The EU began negotiating with Canada over a special trade agreement between the two in 2009 which would allow some degree of preferential access for some of their goods entering the EU. If this Canada-type deal

becomes a reality with the EU, it would allow a good deal of Canada’s exports to enter the EU duty free.

The UK is interested in having a similar ‘special’ kind of trade with the EU once they leave.

In short, it seems the UK wants to leave the European Union but also wants to continue to have some degree of preferential access to their markets.

The problem is, whether the UK can have its cake and continue to eat it.

The EU negotiators, for their part, appear to be reluctant to allow the UK to leave the group and yet receive too many preferential or special treatment as this would send wrong messages or signals to the other members.

For example, with regard to the Fisheries Agreement, President Macron of France

wants European Union member states’ vessels to continue to have access within British waters.

The leading EU Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, is reported to have remarked, that Britain can have control over its waters, but not the fish.

Although the UK has recently signed a trade deal with Japan, and this seems potentially significant or encouraging, it has to be borne in mind that UK-Japan trade represents only about 2-3 % of the UK’s total trade.

It is vital, therefore, that UK’s trade with its largest trading partner, the EU countries, continue, otherwise, this would have devastating effects on the country’s economy.

About half of UK trade is with the EU. Such a market cannot be taken lightly or ignored. This

is why it is crucial that a deal is agreed.

If the UK does not arrive at a deal they will then trade under World Trade Organisation (WTO) rules.

This would mean British goods entering the EU next year would be subjected to tariffs.

This would make UK exports more expensive.

A similar outcome would occur if the UK should then insist on imposing similar tariffs on EU goods entering its country. In this sense, neither party would be a winner.

Both parties might have to compromise a little more in order to ensure a smother or favourable separation.

Deal or no deal, some kind of deal would be better than no deal.

@PhoenixNewsUK

The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020 - Page 3

NEWS

M

l Marcus Rashford

a n c h e s t e r United striker and England international, Marcus Rashford, has been leading calls for children to get free school meals in the holidays.

With the forward wanting the government to provide free lunches amid fears for incomes as coronavirus restrictions increase, more than a million people had already signed his petition calling for children from poor families in England to get free meals during the winter term break.

The UK government extended free school meals to eligible children during the Easter holidays this year and, after a campaign by Rashford and his mother Melanie, repeated this during the summer break.

As schools in England reopened fully in September, cabinet minister Brandon Lewis said that it was then up to councils to use the welfare system so that money is "targeted where it's needed most".

But, with a difficult winter for families predicted, the 22-yearold called on the government to continue the provision into halfterm and the Christmas holidays.

The petition was rejected by the government but in response, local councils and businesses have taken it upon themselves to back Rashford, who has been posting information about the services available on social media.

Rashford’s free school meals campaign Continues to grow A Manchester United player from the age of seven, the 22-year-old made his first-team debut against Midtjylland in the UEFA Europa League in 2016 – scoring two goals - and his Premier League debut against Arsenal three days later.

Praised for using his platform to be a political activist and drive societal change, now, with a difficult winter for families predicted, the 22-year-old called on the government to continue the provision into half-term and the Christmas holidays. Lord Mayor of Manchester Tommy Judge called it "remarkable" to see him "give a voice to the powerless".

Rashford openly spoke out about his early life, saying: “Growing up we didn’t have a lot, but we always had the safety net of the community.

That community was my family.

And when we stumbled, we were caught with open arms.

“Now local businesses have wrapped their arms around

their communities, catching vulnerable children as they fall.

I couldn’t be more proud to call myself British. I am truly overwhelmed by the outpouring of support.

“You want to talk about ‘celebrities’ and ‘superstars’, look no further than my Twitter feed and that’s exactly what you’ll find. The superstars of this nation lie in local communities.”

After being odds-on favourite to win the award, Marcus Rashford MBE is set to miss out on Sports Personality of the Year shortlist despite public support for Manchester United stars free school meals campaign.

He is likely to be overlooked as the BBC's guidelines state only 'sporting achievements' can be considered - despite the name of the award. That would leave Formula One superstar Lewis Hamilton a strong contender after he beat Michael Schumacher's long-standing wins record at the Portuguese GP.

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Page 4 - The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020

NEWS

Nokia delivers five-fold speed boost for NetCologne Nokia has deployed its G.fast solution to extend the Fiber to the Home (FTTH) network of NetCologne, the largest regional telecommunications provider in Germany with over 28,000 kilometers of laid fiber-optic cables.

The technology allows NetCologne to extend fiber service into buildings to give end users the option of accessing up to five times faster access speeds, reaching up to 1Gbps.

Powered by Nokia softwaredefined access networks, NetCologne innovates with flexible cloud operations and brings new digital services to market fast in the greater Cologne/Bonn/Aachen area.

As a provider of network infrastructure to NetCologne for the last 25 years, Nokia is now set to support extensive upgrades to 30,000 Fiber to the Building (FTTB) installations, upgrading the last drop from VDSL2 to G.fast technology.

The Big Villa Sleepout is back - BUT virtually!

M

arking this year’s World Homeless Day and emerging from online discussions between people working to respond to homelessness from various parts of the world, English Premier League club Aston Villa will be holding its Big Villa Sleepout – which, this year, will be held virtually.

And they are encouraging fans to get involved and take up the challenge from home by sleeping out in their gardens or even camping out on the living room floor, in aid of supporting the homeless community of Birmingham.

In return they will be providing an evening of content on their social channels as fans will be encouraged to share selfies on social media throughout the night, using the hashtag #BigVillaSleepout.

Fans will also be able to donate through an online donation link

and proceeds from the fundraising event will help fund their Villa Kitchen, which provides hot meals to the homeless community in Birmingham.

The Villa Kitchen provides local organisations including Outreach

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Angels, Helping Hands and the Birmingham Support Group with pre-packaged meals, which are prepared by a team of staff

volunteers, and the organisations distribute these across the city.

They will be running their annual Big Villa Sleep Out virtually on Aston Villa social channels, with proceeds going towards funding the Kitchen.

“Everyone should have a safe, secure and stable home”, the club says. “However we have seen far too often how easy it is for someone to fall into the cycle of homelessness.

“The current coronavirus pandemic has wreaked havoc on all our lives, but the homeless community are continually facing challenges”.

World Homeless Day, which aims to draw attention to the struggles the homeless community face and inspires ways in which people can look to end homelessness.

The inaugural World Homeless Day was marked on 10 of October 2010 and since its founding, it has been observed on every continent except Antarctica, in several dozen countries.

Use of the idea of it is open for all to use... anywhere in the world.

The Big Villa Sleep Out is due on Saturday November 14.

0208 865 1922 (London)

@PhoenixNewsUK

The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020 - Page 5

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Page 6 - The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020

NEWS

Railway Station Planning Granted Plans for Moseley Station have been approved by Birmingham City Council’s planning committee.

All three proposed stations on the Camp Hill line – Moseley, Kings Heath and Hazelwell now have planning permission marking a major step forward for plans to reopen the line to passenger services.

The new station in Birmingham will include platforms with a canopy, stairs and lifts, a forecourt drop off/pick up area, covered cycle storage, lighting and CCTV installed.

Transport for West Midlands (TfWM), which is part of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and the West Midlands Rail Executive (WMRE) consulted widely with the community, including the Moseley Forum and Moseley Regeneration Group, before submitting the plans.

Following that consultation a traffic light junction at the station entrance with St Mary’s Row was replaced with a roundabout.

City of Culture C to host THE 2021 Turner Prize

oventry, in the Warwickshire, will be playing host to the Turner Prize in 2021, as one of a number of events revealed for its year as the UK's City of Culture with The Specials singer Terry Hall also set to curate a threeday festival, it has been announced.

The Covid-19 pandemic means the start of the year-long programme has been postponed, with the opening now set to take place on May 15.

Its creative director Chenine Bhathena told a digital launch event that plans were "rooted in the people of the city".

"We know our programme will create a year of extraordinary experiences."

The exhibition of the Turner Prize's shortlisted artists will run from 29 September 2021 to 12 January 2022, with the announcement of the winner on 1 December.

Turner Prize chair Alex Farquharson said he was "delighted" it would be held in the city, the first time in its history it will be hosted in the Midlands. Also among the events is the CVX Festival, made by young people with city rapper Jay 1 who will co-produce live music with his brand ONE Wave.

Martin Sutherland, chief executive of the City of Culture Trust, said: “We had been working over the summer to reimagine what a city of culture can be following the pandemic.” He also said that he was "delighted" with what had been done.

Organisers said all the events were being planned in a "flexible and responsive way", to allow them to go ahead in line with any guidelines in place at the time.

Ms Bhathena said they were looking to welcome visitors in a "safe, socially distanced way" and show people "what they can do, rather than what they can't do".

A full programme of events will be announced in January.

Idris and Sabrina leading way to help solve climate change l Idris and Sabrina Elba Superstar couple Idris and Sabrina Elba have said that individuals can make a difference in tackling climate change.

The actor, producer and DJ, said: "There is definitely something that we can all do. You are doing it now seeing this. There is hope." Model and actress wife, Sabrina, added: "There are solutions and how we can all play a part.

We know that every person can make a difference.” The couple say every person can play a role with climate change Their 10-part podcast explores issues and solutions around climate change.

The couple feature in an episode which looks at the impact of climate change on our global food systems.

Idris said he wanted to use his platform to "shine a light" on those most affected by global warming. "There's no shortage of voices talking about climate change and the green debate," he said, "but there's not much visibility on the people

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that haven't much at all and still suffer.

"We look at small farmers as slightly unrelated to us, somewhere in the Sahara, but that food chain links to all of us."

The couple are ambassadors for the UN's International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) - some of whose projects aim to make food production more resilient to the impacts of climate change and are piloting climate adaption technologies such as rainwater harvesting and supplementary irrigation.

"These farmers are probably the least contributors to the climate change problem but are yet being affected the most," said Sabrina.

Elba added: "My son is six years old and I want him to know Daddy went to Sierra Leone to look at agriculture.

“And if we look after our world, it will supply us back. That,s something we should leave with the next generation.”

0208 865 1922 (London)

@PhoenixNewsUK

The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020 - Page 7

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Page 8 - The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020

BUSINESS AND FINANCE

Local businesses shine at Chamber awards

T

he Solihull Annual Awards took place to celebrate the success of local businesses across Solihull. The virtual celebration was hosted by Solihull Chamber, where eight businesses from across the region picked up accolades.

Open College Network West Midlands supported the event by sponsoring this year’s Digital Brochure and joined other local leading figures from across the region, to send a message of hope and good luck to the achievements of Solihull businesses and professionals shortlisted for the awards.

Lee Moore, Director of Business Development said: "We are delighted to be able to support and provide sponsorship for this fantastic event, and on behalf of Open College Network West Midlands I wish all finalists the very best of luck in tonight’s Solihull Awards.

"As a leading national awarding body, proud to be based here in the region, we wanted to send a message of optimism and opportunity for the coming year as we all respond and adjust to meet the current challenges facing the country.

"We believe passionately in skills development and transforming the lives of

ward-wInnIng journalist, editor and publisher Dr Christopher Johnson writes his monthly column in The Phoenix aiming to inform, educate and entertain.

T individuals and communities through enabling learning and releasing people’s potential. There is no doubt that there will be new and emerging opportunities for people to upskill and reskill into new jobs and new sectors and we will certainly play our part in the national skills led recovery plan, through our flexible and relevant vocational qualification offer.

"This region, a key part of the

Midlands Engine, is well placed to bounce back from challenging times and has a proud tradition of business innovation and enterprise.

"I pay tribute to the many remarkable and outstanding achievements of Solihull businesses and professionals and long may this continue.

"Have a great evening everybody".

Hundreds watch live digital launch of 2020 Black Country Business Festival

l The Black Country Business Festival Online The opening was a true hybrid event featuring livestream feeds from individuals who were being interviewed on Zoom by Corin Crane, Black Country Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive, who was live in a broadcasting studio.

The speakers comprised a mix of live and recorded

Harmonising the ‘Utility of Science’ with ‘Faith Economics’ A with Dr Christopher Johnson

interviews, and featured: Andy Street CBE, West Midlands mayor; Adam Marshall, director general of the British Chamber of Commerce; April Pearson Myatt, finance director at Top Tubes; Cllr Patrick Harley and Kevin O’Keefe, chief executive, both from Dudley Council; Jon Kiteley, area director of Balfour Beatty; Anita Bhalla OBE, chair

of West Midlands Leadership Commission and Calum Nisbet, the new commercial director at the Black Country Business Festival.

Interviews were beamed onto digital screens on ‘the sofa’ as though the guests were physically in the studio with Corin, and the entire event appeared as a complete production with a 'TV

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With poet, Spoz, entertaining the guests during the event, the Awards were hosted by general manager of Touchwood, Tony Elvin.

Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce Chief Executive, Paul Faulkner, delivered the awards to winners.

Show' feel. Anyone unable to see the event live show can catch the recording on the Business Festival website.

This is the third Black Country Business Festival – an annual event that aims to bring the business community together to incite learning, sharing, networking and business growth.

Postponed from its original May dates due to the Coronavirus, the festival will be running for the next fortnight, with nearly 100 different business events taking place.

Most are digital with the festival being adapted with the added facility for event organisers to host their events online.

Corin said, “Like all things Covid19-related, the Festival has, in the main, successfully moved to being fully ‘hybrid’ in format. There were a handful of in-person and hybrid events in the programme but the majority are digital. There are nearly 100 free business events in total which really demonstrates the breadth, diversity, innovation and strength of the region.

“The Festival places Black Country businesses at the heart of UK business agenda through its demonstration of the region’s innovation, culture and commerce. It’s truly now a national event, that happens in the Black Country.”

hroughout the passage of time, the principles and practices of science -natural and social - have resulted in contestations, as the citizenry, law-makers, other local representatives and nations as a whole, try to find common ground against the backdrop of divergent viewpoints.

It is in this ‘sea of contradiction’ that Alfred Williams, scientist, theologian, amateur cultural engineer, counsellor and company director, thrives, though his interest in ‘faith economics’ is foregrounded by his nascent belief; ‘Give us this Day our Daily Bread’ creed.

This manifestation results from his vast experience as a public servant and tenure for 16 years as Chair and Director of a Credit Union.

Williams succeeded in raising the profile and helped to increase the coffers of this financial institution.

“Many sections of our society especially small businesses, know little of the value of mutual saving schemes.

“We need to find practical ways to solve complex problems whether they’re cultural, economic, health, social or other.”

Williams affirms that we must ‘trust the science’ especially when dealing with health and wellbeing issues. Science is fundamentally about truth; that which has been proven to work repeatedly, under prescribed conditions. It’s not political, nor feelings”.

He further explained that a form of science states that bumblebees should not fly; but they do, so that ‘science’ is flawed!

“In relation to both natural and social science, these will continue to inform and guide human minds as we seek to find alternatives to complex behaviours.

“We can ill-afford to treat science as a convenient tool, or when it suits us,” he said.

The idea of building a solid foundation for those who are either or potentially moving towards the bottom of the economic scale, is an area that Williams is keen to support.

“We spend a lot of time talking and arguing about the

l Williams attending the 25th Anniversary of Plane Saver Credit Union ‘Word’ but our lives are not always a true representation of it.

Rendering assistance to current and future generations will enable them to realise their potential and fulfil latent talents in economic and financial independence.

He imbues pastoral and related counselling experience, with servant leadership credentials and those of finance and science.

“We must learn how to manage personal and business finances by intelligently applying today’s mutual savings approach.

“We can also optimise science-based techniques to better understand changing trends in our natural environment and general surroundings that impact on life and living”.

The creation of effective and efficient systems of human advancement, is essential.

And while innovation remains more than just the preserve of a few, it is being challenged by professionals and lay people who have become more cynical in recent times.

Williams’ determination to promote a dual sciencebased and faith economics strategy might be another way to revolutionise a common purpose that reflects a collective quest to improve and enhance the economic and social wellbeing of the disadvantaged folk.

Only time can decide the outcome of this dispensation.

0121 339 5885 (Birmingham)

@PhoenixNewsUK

The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020 - Page 9

NEWS

Mini Metro turns 40

This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Mini Metro and an online exhibition has been created by the British Motor Museum to celebrate a car that divided opinion.

Originally under the Austin marque, the first model was designed in just over six weeks.

The cheapest model was £3,095, undercutting its main rival, the Ford Fiesta, by £65. Seventeen years later, now badged as the Rover 100, Metro number 2,078,219 became the final car to emerge from the production line.

40 years on from its launch and online fans are growing - fuelled by family nostalgia.

Cat Griffin, curator at the British Motor Museum, said: "We've got a loads of cars in our collection here and we like to celebrate the ordinary as being extraordinary, just as much as the super cars."

"Sometimes you'll have a great moment in the museum where someone who actually worked on the car can find their name here on it. And it's those little connections of people learning to drive in the Metro.”

Commonwealth invites ALL to join musical collaboration

T

he Secretariat is inviting applications from all Commonwealth citizens to represent their country in a mass musical and cultural performance.

The ‘Uniting the Commonwealth through music during COVID-19’ project is a never-before-attempted musical feat to combine the voices of 54 musicians from the 54 member countries in one powerful virtual performance.

Delivered in partnership with a professional music group, Dionysus Ensemble, the project will demonstrate the power of music and art to lift spirits, improve mental health and encourage international camaraderie, as countries face up to the challenges of the pandemic.

Layne Robinson, Commonwealth Secretariat head of social policy, said: “This is a great opportunity to work with an

l Commonwealth is looking for citizens to represent their countries in a mass performance outstanding and internationally recognised music partner to showcase the amazing talent and rich cultural diversity in 54 countries.

“Music has the ability to communicate the unspoken feelings of these challenging and uncertain times, we celebrate the

contribution of the arts, music and culture in healing and inspiring the human spirit, even as we focus on rebuilding our lives and the society.

“This project will also help to establish a bond and solidarity between people and communities in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean

and Americas, Europe and the Pacific.”

Applicants will perform to a track produced by the Dionysus Ensemble. They will also be required to record a short video about themselves and their community.

Founder and artistic director

of the Ensemble, Léonie Adams, described the project as inclusive and intergenerational. She added that it aims to demonstrate the healing power of music and its role as an international language of understanding, solace and jubilance.

She said: “Whether you are in your village playing for no other reason than that you love it, or in a city singing at the end of a long day’s work, we want to hear you.

"We believe that everyone in the Commonwealth has a voice, so we are inviting applications from all citizens - young or old, rich or poor, city or village dweller, a beginner or a professional musician.

“The project, we hope, will showcase the Commonwealth’s huge range of musical traditions.”

The Dionysus Ensemble is the Ensemble-in-Residence for the Commonwealth Resounds - the accredited music organisation within the Commonwealth.

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NEWS

LEGEND LEWIS BREAKS SCHUMACHER RECORD

New Lichfield And Tamworth Chamber President Named l Lewis Hamilton embraces his father Jason Challoner, managing director of Valyou Recruitment, has taken over as president of Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber of Commerce.

Challoner has headed up his independent recruitment agency, which specialises in the construction, technical and building service sectors, for seven years.

The business, based in Chase Terrace Academy, now turns over £4m a year and was crowned winner of the Lichfield and Tamworth Small Business of the Year 2020.

He was handed the presidential baton from James Blackman, managing director of Cocoonfxmedia, who finished his five-year stint as president of the Chamber. He will serve as honorary president of the Chamber.

Jason said: “I’m extremely thrilled to have taken over as Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber of Commerce president, and would like to

thank James for his hard work, passion and dedication towards the Chamber during his years as president.

“I start my term as president in very uncertain and undeniably challenging times for business.

“I plan to use my tenure by working close with educators, training providers and business to assist in the recovery from the pandemic, develop skills and employment opportunities for the people of Lichfield and Tamworth.”

Julie Poppleton, director of careers education at Stephen Sutton Multi-Academy Trust, will join Jason during his presidential tenure, as vicepresident of the Chamber.

Clare Lubrano, director at Raphael Design, Daniel Aston, HR partner at Access Bookings, Sarah Findlay-Cobb, chief executive of Landau Forte Academy and Elinor Eustace, income generation director at St Giles hospice also joined the Chamber’s council as executive committee members.

l Lewis Hamilton embraces his father

Continued from Front Page

When he’s not re-writing records on the track Lewis Hamilton MBE is supporting: Education Africa, Great Ormond Street Hospital, Harlem Children’s Zone, Save the Children, The Honeypot Children’s Charity, UNICEF, Abuse, AIDS & HIV, At-Risk/ Disadvantaged Youths, Children, Disaster Relief, Education, Health, Human Rights, Poverty, Slavery & Human Trafficking and the Black Lives Matter movement – and that’s just some of the causes he highlights.

“Family is the most important thing in the world. You can’t choose your family but you can make it work with them no matter what your differences. They are the ones that will be there when you have nothing.”

He received a standing ovation from the socially distanced crowd, before celebrating with team members and then a long embrace with father Anthony.

He said he “owed it all” to his

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Mercedes team, adding: “I could only ever have dreamed of being where I am today”.

Hamilton, 35, has also pledged to ‘make a change’ in motorsport representation through his ‘Hamilton Commission’, with former McLaren team principal Martin Whitmarsh and Tracey

Crouch, the former Sports Minister, forming part of his 14-strong commission launched

by F1’s sole Black driver - in June - which will be led by Hamilton and Dr Hayaatun Sillem, the chief executive of the Royal Academy of Engineering.

Launching the research

initiative, the six-time Formula One world champion said he wants “real, tangible and measurable change.”

On and off the track he’s determined to make the change too many others are scared of!

0208 865 1922 (London)

@PhoenixNewsUK

The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020 - Page 11

NEWS

two new Black Country railway stations approved

P

lans for two new railway stations on the Walsall to Wolverhampton line have been approved – marking a major milestone in the project to restore passenger services to this part of the Black Country. The stations at Darlaston and Willenhall were backed by Walsall Council’s planning committee meaning that the project can move forward to the next stage.

An invitation to tender has now been issued for construction of the stations with a view to appointing a contractor by next spring.

The stations will offer the people of Darlaston and Willenhall vastly improved connections to Wolverhampton, Walsall and Birmingham New Street stations when they open in 2023.

Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands, said: “Restoring passenger services to the Walsall to Wolverhampton railway line is a critical part of our transport strategy for the West Midlands, and we have taken another step towards achieving that vision by

securing planning approval for these new stations at Darlaston and Willenhall. We are now looking to get work underway as soon as possible, and our search for a construction contractor has already begun.

“People have been waiting a long time to see services restored, and these better connections will be a catalyst for regeneration in this part of the Black Country. As well as unlocking land for industrial and housing development and improving transport links across the region, the construction of the two stations will provide work for local people at this difficult time, helping to protect and create new jobs in the West Midlands.”

Willenhall Station will be sited next to the Bilston Street railway bridge close to the town centre, while Darlaston Station, which will include a 300-space car park, will be built on derelict land next to the Kendricks Road bridge.

The project is being led by Transport for West Midlands (TfWM), part of the West Midlands Combined

l Artists impression of the new stations Authority (WMCA), and the West Midlands Rail Executive (WMRE) working in close collaboration with the Department for Transport, Network Rail, West Midlands Railway, Walsall Council and the City of Wolverhampton Council.

Last-ditch bid made to stop deportation of autistic man More than 100,000 people signed a petition to spare a man with autism from deportation.

Osime Brown, 21, faced being returned to Jamaica, which he left at the age of four, due to a 2018 conviction under the joint enterprise law.

Mother, Joan Martin, said her son couldn’t understand deportation and asked her which bus he would need to catch from Jamaica to visit her at home in Dudley, in the West Midlands.

The Home Office said Mr Brown's case would be "for the courts to decide".

Minister Kevin Foster cited the UK Borders Act of 2007 which says "foreign criminals" are subject to automatic deportation; however campaigners for Mr Brown say he has no support network in Jamaica and would not cope.

He was jailed for robbing a phone through the joint enterprise law, which is often used in gang cases as it allows for group culpability for crimes. However it has been criticised as a "lazy law", with a large proportion of those

Key events marked this autumn and winter despite COVID-19 Town centres will be lit up with Christmas lights despite the Covid-19 pandemic as Sandwell Council confirmed that although their light ‘switch-on’ - and Bonfire Night - events would not be able to go ahead, they would do everything possible to celebrate events and mark important dates without large public gatherings.

Councillor Maria Crompton, Deputy Leader for Sandwell Council, said: “Our number one priority is to reduce the spread of Covid-19 in Sandwell and to keep our communities safe – while making sure important occasions are observed despite the virus meaning we can’t hold physical events attended by the hundreds of people who usually enjoy them.

“We’re looking at ways to celebrate Christmas virtually and, although sadly we won’t be able to have Christmas lights switch-on events that people can attend, we’ll be putting up lights in our town centres as we do each year.”

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UNVEILING OF A BLUE PLAQUE IN UNITY WITH NUBIAN JAK COMMUNITY TRUST Mon 2nd NOV 2020 12—2PM via ZOOM LINK

l Osime Brown convicted being young Black and Mixed Race men.

Ms Martin said her son has been self-harming in prison, where he is due to be released this week, adding that "everything is draining from him. I have to be honest with him.

“I said if they deport you, you can't come back. He looked like the light when you turn it off."

Sarah Ricca is one of Mr Brown's solicitors and said his case has "struck a chord" with

people.

She said: "It's very hard not to be concerned that the system now grinds away and fails to take proper account of his particular condition and the particular risks it poses."

Ms Martin said her son had fallen through the cracks and been let down by the government throughout his life.

"To offload him to another country without helping him would be cold."

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Page 12 - The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020

BUSINESS AND FINANCE

Charity fundraiser, Kishor, goes ‘above and beyond’ despite lockdown

India Must Cut Air Pollution To Avoid A Covid Disaster The pollution season in India has returned as air quality in many rapidly deteriorates.

And it comes as coronavirus maintains its presence, with worldwide studies linking air pollution to higher Covid-19 case numbers and deaths.

There have been no studies yet to examine the effect of air pollution on Covid-19 infection or recovery rates, but doctors and epidemiologists have long warned that toxic air will only hamper India's fight against the virus.

The country now has the world's second-highest caseload (7.5m and counting) and the third-highest death toll (more than 114,000) from the virus, although deaths per million of the population are relatively low.

But experts say worsening air quality will likely increase these

numbers.

Delhi, already one of the cities worst-hit by the pandemic, will probably bear the brunt because its residents have been exposed to hazardous levels of pollution for years.

The air is especially bad in winters, when several factors - farmers burning crop stubble to clear the fields, vehicular and industrial pollution, festive fireworks and low wind speed contribute to what doctors say is a "deadly cocktail of poisonous gases".

A Harvard University study surveyed more than 3,000 counties across the US but the results are alarming for Delhi as well given its terrifying air pollution records - it has consistently ranked among the world's most polluted cities.

A

s they continue to serve the wide and diverse community in Newtown, in Birmingham, Kishor and Raj Vadhia have been as much loved as their shoe repair and dry-cleaning operation has for so long – and still is to this day – the main-stay of a thriving metropolis that remains as the welcoming hub for all, from all corners of the globe.

Forever adored for their love and respect for those they serve, the Kenya-born brother – behind the Five Star Dry Cleaning Service - was always ‘giving back,’ by holding fundraising events to support charities that affect those around him.

But, as Covid-19 put paid to any level of activities, for whatever cause, the ever-thinking Vadhia was never going to be beat and, marking this year’s 10th anniversary, he organised an online zoom event to raise money for 3 charities; OSCAR Birmingham (who support individuals and their families who are affected by Sickle

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Cell and Thalassaemia Disorder), Black Minds Matters UK which is about a more equal and just society for all and EMCCF (Ebou Mala’s Children Charitable Foundation), which was founded in the Gambia and is a non-profit humanitarian organization dedicated to help alleviate the suffering of children and their families in Africa.

“We organised this zoom charity event to raise funds and awareness of the three charities with some of the communities leading figures lending their support, Kishor says, “including; Special Guest speaker, Wade Lyn CBE, the Honorary Consul of Jamaica in Birmingham and founder/owner of Island Delight Patties and political and social justice campaigner Rev Dr Desmond Jaddoo, who chairs the West Midlands Faith in Action group, with speakers from the three charities sharing their gratitude and appreciation”.

Daring, much-loved entrepreneur and philanthropist Kishor even went ‘above and beyond’ during the online event: “I managed to sing one song,” he said, “call Soham Soham (Every Time You Breath God Is With Us)”. And not a dry eye on this memorable mass zoon call.

The two hours event, hosted by music star Sic Nis, managed to raise a total of £1380 for the charities.

l Main: Fundraiser Kishor Vadhia, and inset, Wade Lyn CBE

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The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020 - Page 13

NEWS

Arts venues to get slice of Culture Recovery Fund

I

t was announced that Town Hall Symphony Hall (THSH) in Birmingham is among the latest recipients of emergency government arts funding and will be receiving almost £3m from the £1.57bn Culture Recovery Fund; with the city’s Hippodrome been awarded £2.53 million.

The CBSO (City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra) is to return to Symphony Hall, as its doors open for the first time in over seven months to enable live concerts for socially-distanced audiences.

The announcement followed the decision by Arts Council England to award THSH £2.53 million from the Fund designed to help the sector until March 2021 The CBSO received £843,000.

Birmingham Repertory Theatre (THE REP) was also awarded a grant, of £1.38 million, with its Artistic Director, Sean Foley and Executive Director, Rachael Thomas saying; “As Covid-19 continue to have a devastating effect on our communities, city, and industry, we are hugely grateful to The Department for Culture, Media and Sport for

the grant as part of the Culture Recovery Fund.

“Without it there is no doubt the future of our historic theatre would have been greatly compromised.

Thanks to the support from DCMS and Arts Council England we can now channel our efforts into securing the future of The REP, protecting jobs, and employing freelancers”.

Birmingham-born actor Adrian Lester, a Trustee of the Board of The REP, said the £1.38m would allow it to "inspire and entertain again" when it is able to reopen.

Shakespeare's Globe, the Sage Gateshead, the replica Elizabethan theatre in London, Birmingham Royal Ballet, the CBSO and the Lichfield Garrick theatre are amongst those who will receive almost £3m from the £1.57bn Culture Recovery Fund.

Museums to benefit from this tranche of funding include the Ironbridge Gorge Museums in Shropshire and the Black Country Living Museum in Dudley.

More than £500m has now been allocated from the Culture Recovery Fund to almost 2,500 cultural organisations and venues.

Birmingham, Be Heard!

B

irmingham’s residents, businesses and organisations are all being urged to share their views on the council’s proposals to address and tackle inequalities that affect communities across the city.

A virtual public consultation on www.birminghambeheard.org.uk opened on the 6 October 2020, starting a city-wide conversation about issues, and will run until 14 December 2020. Feedback will be presented in an update to Cabinet in January 2021.

The report Everyone’s Business, Everyone’s Battle: Tackling Inequalities in Birmingham, presented to Cabinet last month,

highlights the full extent to which inequalities have impacted Birmingham – and how the city plans to address them.

It sets out the council’s initial plans and forms the basis for this city-wide conversation with communities about how to build a more equal and inclusive Birmingham.

“We live in one of Britain’s most diverse cities and yet opportunities for too many of our citizens continue to be limited as a result of their race, class, gender, economic circumstances or a combination of these factors,” explained Cllr John Cotton, Cabinet Member for Social Inclusion, Community Safety and Equalities at Birmingham

City Council.

“In order to actively address those issues, we are going to be bold and open to having uncomfortable conversations to understand the underlying causes and challenges of persistent inequality.

“We also undertook two pieces of work earlier in the year around COVID and understanding its impact, and that once again just highlighted that the pandemic which has obviously affected everyone in our city, has had a disproportionate affect on those who are most socially excluded and disadvantaged, and that’s clearly unacceptable.

We want to really fundamentally chance how this city addresses

issues of inequality and lead by example, to ensure that everybody gets the opportunity to participate and make the most of their life in what is a great diverse city, where everyone should have the opportunity to achieve and thrive.”

“Inequality is a challenging issue, and I think we’ve seen that over the course of this year.

The call for global justice for the Black Lives Matter movement, and the inequalities that have been very starkly exposed by COVID. “We need to be upfront about saying that this situation is not acceptable. We’re shining a light on ourselves, as an employer and local authority, saying we know our workforce does not properly represent the diversity of the city that it serves, and that is most definitely the case at its most senior levels – we have to be honest about that and we have to change it.”

The council will be using this to work with citizens, communities and partners to address wider structural inequalities and its workforce to reflect Birmingham’s diverse communities at all levels of the organisation.

All consultation material will be available via the council’s Birmingham Be Heard consultation website at birminghambeheard.org.uk Written submissions can also be made on issues raised by this consultation can be sent to: Tackling Inequalities Consultation, c/o Cohesion and Equalities Team, Room 131, Council House, Victoria Square, Birmingham, B1 1BB. The consultation closes at 11.59pm on 14 December 2020

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Page 14 - The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020

EDUCATION, TRAINING AND RECRUITMENT

g n i t o Prom xcellence E

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

Lifeline grant is music to the ears of music charity

A

ality u q h Hig rom f e r ld ca child e years o iv f o t irth

b

n award-winning charity, whose continuing work with schools during the pandemic has been widely applauded, has been awarded £250,000 as part of the Government’s £1.57 billion Culture Recovery Fund (CRF) to help face the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic and to ensure they have a sustainable future, the Culture Secretary has announced today.

Services For Education, which in normal times teaches music to some 38,000 school children each week, is amongst the first to receive funds in the very first round of the Culture Recovery Fund grants programme being administered by Arts Council England.

The Birmingham-based charity is

one of the 28 cultural and creative organisations based in in the city and one of 1,385 across the country receiving urgently needed support. £257million of investment was announced with further rounds of funding set in the cultural and heritage sector.

Sharon Bell, Chief Executive of Services For Education - uses the power of learning and music to create and build confidence in local children, young people, adults and communities - said: “The award of the grant, in a highly competitive environment, is a huge endorsement of the work that our team delivered – and continue to deliver - during lockdown.

“We are delighted to have secured this additional funding from the Arts Council that will help us continue our invaluable work - using music

to support vulnerable children and young people across Birmingham.”

Chair of Arts Council England, Sir Nicholas Serota, said: “Theatres, museums, galleries, dance companies and music venues bring joy to people and life to our cities, towns and villages.

“This life-changing funding will save thousands of cultural spaces loved by local communities and international audiences.

“Further funding is still to be announced and we are working hard to support our sector during these challenging times.”

More recently, Services For Education has resumed music lessons in Birmingham schools whilst continuing its on-line support for both schools and individual school children.

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University launches UK’s first Islamic Finance undergraduate degree Birmingham City University has announced the launch of the first Accounting and Islamic Finance undergraduate course – a niche of the finance industry set to grow exponentially in coming years.

The BSc (Hons) Accounting and Islamic Finance degree will see students study Islamic economics, whilst developing an understanding of corporate social responsibility in modules exploring how businesses are taking greater responsibility in helping to move towards a cleaner and more sustainable planet.

Islamic finance is one of the fastest growing financial industries, with global assets exceeding $2 trillion and expected to reach $3.8 trillion by 2023.

“The course is being launched at a very crucial time in our history,” explained course leader Shaista Mukadam, a senior lecturer at Birmingham City University’s Business School.

“With the current pandemic and economic challenges, there is an urgent need to rethink an alternative to the interest-based economy.”

Islamic finance emerged in the

20th century as an effective tool for financing development worldwide, including in non-Muslim countries.

Islamic organisations run their operations in a way that is consistent with the principles of Islamic law.

Sharia-compliant finance differs from conventional banking in key

ways, the most notable being a prohibition on charging interest and investing in ethically compliant companies. The degree will also provide students with opportunities to partner with organisations including Islamic charities on community advice projects.

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The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020 - Page 15

EDUCATION, TRAINING AND RECRUITMENT Smash Theatre In Education Tour Attracts Local Talent Following consultation with partner schools, Wolverhampton Grand Theatre will continue with the annual Intro to Panto Tour, a Theatre in Education platform, produced by the Grand, which has now sold out its school allocations for a period of three weeks in December.

The normal format has been adapted so that it can perform to multiple bubbles in school throughout the day and with thanks to sponsors The Friends Of The Grand and The Steve Bull Foundation the cost to schools has remained minimal.

There is an opportunity for a Wolverhampton performer to join the experienced cast and The Grand is seeking an energetic, warm, vibrant professional female actor who can sing to play the Fairy - the magical connection to the audience and is loved by all children. She speaks in rhyme and is a key element to the development of plot.

The show is split into two halves, the first - an interactive workshop led by three performers and the Grand Theatre’s regular Panto Dame, Ian Adams.

With castings held, Associate Director of Creative and Production Nathan Brine said: “We are thrilled to continue the Intro to Panto schools tour which has provided us with a great opportunity to reach out to the professional talent that exists right on our doorstep and will ensure our community remain thoroughly woven into the work we create here at The Grand.”

2021 exams to be N delayed but still going ahead

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ext summer's A-levels and GCSEs in England are going ahead - but with reduced content for some subjects and a start date pushed back by three weeks with most exams now starting from June 7, rather than mid-May, in an attempt to make up for lost teaching time.

Head teachers accused ministers of an "inadequate response" to the scale of disruption facing pupils and teachers.

Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said further backup plans would be decided later for "all scenarios". The Department for Education says it expects vocational qualifications to also align with this changed timetable.

There were warnings that running a full set of exams would be unfair to schools in the north of England, which have faced particular disruption from Covid outbreaks.

Sarah Mulholland of the Northern Powerhouse lobbying group, said: "They are the ones most likely to have been impacted by school closures following year group bubbles of pupils having to be sent home."

Exam boards, represented by the Joint Council for Qualifications, said the "trade

off" of a later start would be a more "compressed" exam timetable, with the same number of exams across a shorter number of days.

But Mr Williamson said: "Exams are the fairest way of judging a student's performance so they will go ahead, underpinned by contingency measures developed in partnership with the sector.

The promised "contingency measures" will address how exams will be further adapted in the face of local lockdowns and if exams cannot go ahead as planned. But head teachers were angry at the lack of a decision over what those contingency plans might be - and what information they should be gathering in case exams are cancelled again and grades have to be estimated.

The delayed start date proposed by ministers in June - was described by heads' union leader Geoff Barton as of "marginal benefit" compared with the amount of lost teaching time from the pandemic.

Pupils due to take exams have already lost months of teaching time - and many are still facing further disruption, with almost one in five secondary schools sending home pupils because of Covid cases.

0121 339 5885 (Birmingham)

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Page 16 - The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020

WOMEN OF EXCELLENCE

Netball superstar Mary out to inspire and to be inspired A s only the s e c o n d professional netball player from Uganda to play in the Vitality Netball Superleague, Mary Cholhok's rallying cry to women back in her home land is one born out of her own experiences overcoming adversity to become a netball star for her country and her club, Loughborough Lightning.

The 23-yearold wants to inspire other young girls to follow her lead.

"Growing up as the

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girl child is a very big struggle in every country, especially in Africa, because we have some norms and cultures that we follow as girls," she says.

"We have some early marriages in some cultures, and due to that, you don't get enough time to invest in sport, or what you want to achieve professionally.

"So many girls there don't know if they are still suffering.

They've got to open their eyes at some point."

Originally from South Sudan, Cholhok's family fled a country rocked by civil war and political instability in search of a fresh start following the death of her father.

And growing to 6ft 7in, she quickly found herself to be a natural at netball and saw the sport as a path towards

something better.

Her mother and uncle, on the other hand, required some convincing.

"They weren't very happy about it,” she recalls. “They just felt like it would distract me and my grades would drop. So they were somewhat harsh about it.

“Sometimes I would have to sneak out to play, and try to balance both.

“At certain points, someone discovers what they do best, at a certain age or level. I decided to really stay in sport, because I felt like I had an opportunity to get a scholarship."

That dream looked in jeopardy when Cholhok fell pregnant while still in high school, becoming a single mother.

She shrugged off pressure to give up netball and settle

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down, with the experience making her more determined to make something of her life for her son Yasson.

"I really had to take the step up, to become responsible, become a mother now, and also look out for his future too.”

She finished her Vitality Superleague debut season as the top scorer and followed it up by playing in her first Netball World Cup, in Liverpool, last year.

This year posed a markedly different challenge as the Covid-19 pandemic saw the 2020 season voided after just four weeks.

"I feel like my life has been now fully given to me, whatever I achieve in life will be my sweat and my everything.," Cholhok says.

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The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020 - Page 17

Music fashion Film Gadgets holiday education health and fitness

OCTOBER 2020

/streetcredmagazine www.streetcredmagazine.com

THE LEGENDARY AUSSIE ROCKERS RETURN WITH THEIR 17th ALBUM

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Page 18 - The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020

ENTERTAINMENT

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Master P enters billion-dollar cereal industry

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apper and serial entrepreneur Master P has launched a new venture in the cereal industry with his own brand called Uncle P's Hoody Hoos that is now available in stores nationwide.

"You got milk, we've got cereal," Master P said on a recent Instagram post.

"We're changing the game. The more we make, the more we give."

Uncle P's Hoody Hoos Cereal comes in different flavours such as Honey Drip, Tropical Fruit & Marshmallow, and Cinnamon Apple.

The new cereal brand is another addition to Master P's long list of businesses which include music, clothing, food, as well as a professional wrestling league.

He entered the breakfast cereal industry at the right timing as it is expected to grow by $12.9 billion this year, according to reportlinker.com.

Master P used this opportunity not only to try to make it to the top of the cereal industry but also to be able to give back more to the community.

"Hoody Hoos Cereal is not only a delicious breakfast or snack but is making a difference," said Master P. "A percentage of every cereal box sold goes to providing inner-city kids in the community with education, resources, and activities to help build their future."

Uncle P's Hoody Hoos Cereal can be found at the local Aldi, Save A Lot, 7-Eleven, or Walmart Neighbourhood Market.

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The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020 - Page 19

www.streetcredmagazine.com

Pantomime dames highlight the plight of arts venues

Lady Leshurr joins Dancing on Ice Britain’s awardwinning rapper Lady Leshurr was confirmed as the tenth celebrity skater to take part in ITV's Dancing on Ice 2021.

The Birmingham musician, who rose to fame with the help of YouTube, released her third EP, Quaranqueen, in June.

She said: "I don't know what I've got myself into, but everyone knows me to be someone who just throws themself in at the deep end. I just wing it a lot of the time."

"I'm petrified, but I've always wanted to ice

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skate so what's better than doing it in front of millions of people.

"I'm looking forward to having a new skill and just showing off in front of my friends."

The show, which starts filming in January, will see 12 celebrities skate live with their professional partners as they try to impress the judges - Torvill and Dean, John Barrowman and Ashley Banjo - and the voting viewers at home.

Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby will return to host the programme.

D

ozens of pantomime dames marched on Westminster, as part of a day of action highlighting the plight of the live events industry.

The parade was organised after the rise in coronavirus cases prompted the cancellation of the 2020 panto season.

Actor Gary Bridgens, who normally performs in pantomime, under the stage name Gacko, every year, said: “The impact is rippling through the entire theatre industry for a generation.”

Organisers are calling for an extension to the government's furlough scheme for theatre workers.

"If the government don't support theatre in its hour of need, there won't be any - or worse, it will all need rebuilding after this disaster,” he said.

The protest in London coincided with a day of global events reflecting the issues facing the live event industry.

Under the slogan "red alert", the #WeMakeEvents campaign will see venues in 25 countries bathed in red

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light, to draw attention to the continued uncertainty over when concerts and shows can resume; and the precarious position actors, musicians and crew

find themselves in.

Pre-empting the day of action, hundreds of people who normally work at concerts, festivals and

theatres gathered in Parliament Square to hold a 30 minute silent protest at the government's handling of the situation.

0121 339 5885 (Birmingham) l The Stereophonics return to Arena Birmingham on February 29th

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Page 20 - The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020

ENTERTAINMENT

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Cultural leaders, artists and activists collaborate to launch new fund A committee of prominent cultural leaders, artists and activists including Artistic Director and the CEO of Sadlers Wells, Alistair Spalding, Artistic Director at HighTide Suba Das, and the Executive Producer and the Executive Director of Improbable Kathryn Bilyard and Ben Monks, visual artist Ferg Cooper, Independent Editor and Producer Sara Sjölund, Creative Strategist and ACE changemaker Suzanne Alleyne, multidisciplinary creative Shazia Bibi, and activist and artist Manuela Benini, have teamed up to launch a new artists funding platform.

ARTCRY went live with the launch month to include events,

artworks and talks released in support of the campaign.

The initiative aims to raise and distribute £50,000 in its first year of operations, and all artists from any discipline at any stage in their career are welcome to apply. Work must be free for audiences and presented in the public realm and be time critical.

The fund will encourage and support artists to create work responding to social and political events with fast- turnaround funding which enables fast action.

ARTCTRY will fund small grants (up to £5k) with decisions on applications made within a week of applying so that artists know within seven days whether they have received funding so they can start work.

THE GODSFATHER Speaks

A

mazon Prime Video has announced the official premiere date for season three of Amazon Original Series, “American Gods.”

The new season will premiere on Amazon Prime Video worldwide, excluding the United States on Monday 11 January.

Creator and executive producer Neil Gaiman - the Godsfather himself - released the following letter about what to expect from the upcoming season, addressed to fans of the novel and series: “When we embarked upon making Season Three of “American Gods,” we had no idea how timely it would turn out to be.

“We knew we wanted to return to what people loved and responded to in the book: that it was time for Shadow to go to the little town of Lakeside and try to lose himself in normality.

“And at the same time, in Season Three, we wanted to

focus on the characters and their journeys. To show Shadow forging a path guided by the Gods of his ancestors, becoming more himself while deciding who he is and what side he's on — humanity's or that of the Gods.

“We knew also that we wanted to continue to root the show in the landscapes of America. To explore what “America” means to its people and to talk about immigrants — about the very different people who came to this remarkable land and brought their gods with them.

“The new gods of phone and app and glitter demand our attention and our love, and the old gods want to mean something again.

“America must be for all of us, and “American Gods” must reflect that. This season truly feels as if it does. It’s full of drama and emotion, the very real and the utterly strange, and it features some of the finest performances the show has yet

seen.

“It brings back favorite characters, some in remarkable new ways, and we will encounter people and gods we've never met before.

“I'm proud of our brilliant cast — of Ricky and Emily, of Yetide and Ian, Bruce, Demore, Omid and all the rest — and of what the writers have done to bring the story back on track.

“The struggles of the gods and the people in Season Three of “American Gods” are the struggles of America. We didn't think it would prove as timely when we plotted it, nor did I think the novel would still be relevant when I wrote it over 20 years ago.

“But I'm glad it's happening now, in a year when it feels as though diverse stories are being heard, and honored, and allowed to change the future.

“Thank you so much, Neil Gaiman.

Odeon opening weekends only at certain cinemas Odeon is cutting the opening hours for some of its cinemas in the UK and Ireland to weekends only because of delays to new film releases.

The chain, which operates 120 theatres, said it will affect a quarter of its cinemas, which will now open between Friday and Sunday.

Odeon, which employs 5,500 people, declined to comment on job cuts.

It comes as Cineworld said it will temporarily close its UK and US venues, affecting 45,000

jobs. According to movie magazine Film Stories, Odeon emailed customers to tell them that from Friday 9 October it was temporarily reducing hours at some cinemas "in light of the ongoing delays to the release of many new films".

The changes announced by

Odeon and Cineworld comes after the release of the new James Bond film was delayed again.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson urged people to return to cinemas, saying it would "encourage people to go out to the cinema, enjoy themselves and support" movie theatres.

However, the cinema industry has been hit by an absence of blockbuster movie to lure in customers.

Cineworld employs around 5,500 people in the UK.

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The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020 - Page 21

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Auction raises £10,000 for London based HIV Charity A

major collection of prints by urban art legends including Obey, Jimmy Cauty and Jamie Reid made £10,000 at auction in aid of London based HIV charity The Food Chain.

The Food Chain, who provide

nutritional support for people living with HIV, saw a 300% rise in demand for their services since the beginning of the Covid-19 crisis, rapidly switching their service to emergency food delivery by volunteers and individual support

calls to their service users.

The entirety of the significant collection, including contemporary classics such as What U Looking At? by​Eelus and Stars and Stripes

by Keith Haring, sold through bidding in the auction room and across two internet platforms.

Highlights from Chorley’s charity auction include a The Medium is the Message Post No Bills print

by Obey that sold for £300 and Three Stamp sheets of Queen in Gas Mask by Jimmy Cauty that achieved £280.

Photo Op, a print by Peter Kennard and Cat Phillipps depicting Tony Blair taking a selfie in front of a huge explosion, made £160. The collection was a legacy donation by the estate of prolific collector Stephen Nunn and all

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proceeds from the sale went to The Food Chain.

Chorley’s Director and Auctioneer Thomas Jenner-Fust says “We couldn’t be happier with the outcome of our charity auction in aid of The Food Chain who are doing incredible work in London communities and to have had the opportunity to handle such an interesting and varied collection. It gives us great pleasure to be able to send a cheque for £10,000 to such a worthy cause” The Food Chain’s Community and Events Fundraiser Clifford McManus says “£10,000 will make a huge difference to The Food Chain and help us to continue to feed the fight against HIV across London”

Passenger Announces New Album For 2021 Mike Rosenberg, better known as Passenger, has announced that his new studio album Songs for the Drunk and Broken Hearted will be released on January 8, 2021, and he has shared the track that inspired the album’s title, “A Song for the Drunk and Broken Hearted,”.

He’s also happy to announce that all physical packaging of CDs and Vinyl will be made of 100% recycled material, and one tree will be planted for

every physical piece sold via the Passenger webstore thanks to a partnership with Ecologi and the Eden Project.

Passenger’s proposed year of busking, festivals and headline shows is postponed until 2021.

With an authentic and engaging live show that has won over scores of fans and critics around the globe and allowed him to headline some of the world’s most famous stages, he looks forward to returning to the road as soon as it’s safe for everyone.

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Page 22 - The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020

ENTERTAINMENT

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Ambassador Young and Killer Mike to open America’s newest bank

R

apper Killer Mike has partnered with civil rights legend Andrew J. Young and entrepreneur Ryan Glove to launch the USA’s newest bank and financial institution.

Having already secured $3 million in seed funding from private investors, Greenwood Bank will be the first digital banking platform for Black and Latinx people and business owners.

Greenwood's initial products are savings and spending accounts that come with a stunningly designed black metal debit card for customers who sign up by the end of the year.

Advanced features like Apple, Samsung, and Android pay, virtual debit cards, peer-to-peer transfers, mobile check deposits, and free ATM usage in over 30,000 locations are offered with no hidden fees.

Customers who invite their friends to open accounts receive cash awards as a thank you from Greenwood. All deposits are FDIC insured by a partner bank.

Glover, who is also the founder of Bounce TV, said: "It's no secret that traditional banks have failed the Black and Latinx community.

Headie One Tops Chart With Edna, A New Album Named After His Mum

R "We needed to create a new financial platform that understands our history and our needs going forward, a banking platform built by us and for us, a platform that helps us build a stronger future for our communities.

“This is our time to take back control of our lives and our financial future. That is why we launched Greenwood, modern banking for the culture."

"Today, a dollar circulates for 20 days in the white community but only six hours in the Black community," said Michael 'Killer

Mike' Render.

"Moreover, a Black person is twice as likely as a white person to be denied a mortgage. This lack of fairness in the financial system is why we created Greenwood."

Ambassador Young said: "The work that we did in the civil rights movement wasn't just about being able to sit at the counter. It was also about being able to own the restaurant" "We have the skills, talent and energy to compete anywhere in the world, but to grow the economy, it has to be based on the spirit of the

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universe and not the greed of the universe.

“Killer Mike, Ryan and I are launching Greenwood to continue this work of empowering Black and Brown people to have economic opportunity."

The Greenwood name pays homage to the prosperous "Black Wall Street," part of the Greenwood District of Tulsa, Oklahoma, during the early 20th Century -- a centre of African American enterprise, entertainment, skills, wealth and investment capital.

apper Headie One has topped the UK charts with his debut album, Edna.

Songs from the record, which is dedicated to his late mother, were streamed 25.5 million times last week, said the Official Charts Company.

The Tottenham-born 26-yearold, whose real name is Irving Adjei, was already one of the biggest names in UK rap, with a string of increasinglyimpressive mixtapes and a guest slot on Stormzy's second album, Heavy Is The Head.

An eighth mixtape, Gang, hit streaming services within hours of his release, and entered the charts at number five. It marked a move away from the rapper's origins in drill - a darker, bleaker variant of grime

- towards a more melodic, less insular sound.

That comes to full fruition on Edna, notably on the chartbusting single Ain't It Different, whose catchy hooks hide a message about the dull reality of prison life ("You ain't ever made a birthday cake from digestive biscuits," he raps at one point).

"Edna is proof that he's the unmistakeable, global 'King of drill', and much more besides," concluded the NME. "It's a move into the mainstream, without forgetting where it all began."

"Having my debut album go to number one means a lot to me," said the star, who posed with his Official Chart Award at his mother's graveside.

"Edna," he added, "this is for you."

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The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020 - Page 23

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ENTERTAINMENT

Cinema Ranked Number 1 New research from parents and children has revealed the cinema as the number one family activity for children aged 5-14.

Even as families across the UK have had to adjust to the new normal, the survey by Vue of 2,000 UK parents and children found that a trip to the big screen (69%) topped the charts ahead of visiting a park or playground (68%), taking on a theme park (56%) and going for a walk (48%).

Having been stuck at home for most of 2020, parents and children are keen to get back to the big screen, but it’s kids aged 5-14 who share the highest levels of enthusiasm.

Thankfully, as physical distancing and family safety top 2020 priority lists, the report by Vue also shows that more than half (58%) of parents feel safe taking their kids to the cinema under the current guidelines and improved safety measures.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Kammy’s back for Christmas!

F

ollowing on from the unprecedented success of his debut last year, Chris ‘Kammy’ Kamara has announced the release of his second album ‘…

And A Happy New Year’ - out November 27.

Whilst his singing may have taken some by surprise, associating him more with being a star of Saturday afternoon and Saturday evening TV, the reception for his croon on last year’s ‘Here’s To Christmas’ was unanimous. Glowing reviews, a social media frenzy describing him as ‘Britain’s Bublé’, and front-pages backing him in the race for Xmas No.1, all led incredibly to a Top 10 album.

Middlesbrough-born Chris has delivered a smooth, big band swing album that is ‘pure class.’

And if you thought that wasn’t ‘unbelievable’ enough, Kammy

is back with a new album of the smoothest seasonal songs. ‘…And A Happy New Year’ continues his swing and big band sound, featuring Xmas standards such as ‘White Christmas’, ‘In The Bleak Midwinter’, and ‘Blue Christmas’; alongside a swing cover of Wizard’s classic ‘ I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday’.

The album will also feature two brand new tracks: ‘Mr Claus’ and ‘Happy New Year’, written for Kammy (who celebrates his birthday on December 25)

by Richard Scott and Kelvin Andrews, who have also written for Robbie Williams amongst others. ‘… And A Happy New Year’ was recorded with the same musicians who appeared on ‘Here’s To Christmas’, an 18 piece big band. However whilst recording under Covid restricted

and distanced rules, each section was recorded of different days whilst remote recording for the strings took place in Sofia, Bulgaria. For the majority of the musicians it was the first time they had been in a recording studio for over 6 months.

On the album, Kammy says: “I was blown away by the reception to ‘Here’s To Christmas’, and when I was asked to record another I just had to! I hope that with ‘… And A Happy New Year’, especially in this year, I can help give people a little bit of festive cheer, and something to sing-along to.”

His irreverent style and infectious enthusiasm in analysing matches for Sky Sports’ Gillette Soccer Special on Saturday afternoons reporting live from matches has seen the nation take him to their heart as a national treasure.

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Spooky selection on offer as libraries mark Halloween

Power Up A

W

olverhampton's libraries are celebrating Halloween by offering a spooky selection of books for both adults and younger readers.

Library members can reserve some chilling tales online at https://www.capitadiscovery. co.uk/wolverhampton/ through the Select and Collect service, and pick them up safely at a

convenient time from Central, Bilston, Warstones or Wednesfield libraries. People can also reserve over the phone by calling 01902 552025.

Meanwhile, the library service's YouTube channel is packed with stories, rhymes, crafts and more to keep children occupied during half-term. For details, click http:// bit.ly/3bE4ViV. It's free to join Wolverhampton's libraries. For more information,

please visit www.wolverhampton. gov.uk/libraries.

All libraries are currently closed to visitors because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. All loan periods have been extended to 31 December 2020, meaning anyone who has a book or other item out on loan which is past its due date will not be charged until after that date.

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C/DC will release their seventeenth full-length album POWER UP on November 13, 2020. This marks the legendary band’s first new music since 2014.

To set the stage, they have unleashed a new single entitled Shot In The Dark.

The song sees the line up of Angus Young (lead guitar), Brian Johnson (lead vocals), Cliff Williams (bass guitar), Phil Rudd (drums) and Stevie Young (rhythm guitar) firing on all cylinders once again.

AC/DC are one of the most influential rock bands in history with over 200 million albums sold worldwide and 71.5 million albums sold in the U.S. alone.

The double-diamond Back in

Black stands out as “bestselling album by any band ever” and “third bestselling album by any artist” with global sales of 50 million and counting.

They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame® in 2003.

The band also garnered their first Grammy Award in the category of “Best Hard Rock Performance” for “War Machine” during 2010.

They continue to sell out stadiums on multiple continents, sell millions of albums annually, and generate streams in the billions.

As part of the #PWRUP launch, the iconic London landmarks Battersea Power Station, St Paul’s Cathedral, Marble Arch & the Tate Modern

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were all 'powered up' with AC/ DC imagery.

For the album, the band have reunited with producer Brendan O’Brien who helmed Black Ice in 2008 and Rock Or Bust in 2014.

Charged up for the next decade, AC/DC cut twelve new tracks for the album, proudly maintaining their signature sound and all of its powerful hallmarks.

Power Up will be available in multiple configurations that will excite collectors and die-hard fans alike, including digital, CD, and deluxe versions.

The limited edition, one-ofa-kind deluxe Power Up box is the ultimate fan package. Hit the button on the side of the box and watch the flashing neon AC/DC

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With ACDC logo light up while the opening bars of “Shot In The Dark” blast out of the built-in speaker.

Inside the box is the full CD package in a soft-pack with a 20-page booklet that features exclusive photos and USB charging cable allowing the box to remain powered up and on display.

The vinyl LP will be pressed on 180 gram vinyl and housed in a gatefold jacket. Limited edition red, yellow, silver and picture disc variants of the LP will be available at select retailers nationwide, as well as the band’s online store.

The album will also be available on all digital platforms and limited edition cassettes.

AC/DC are back in 2020. Get ready for POWER UP now!

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Unbroken a winner at T&T Film Festival

U

nbroken, an inspiring Jamaican story of determination and resilience, was a big winner at the Trinidad and Tobago Film Festival (TTFF).

Directed and shot by Jamaican film-maker Gabrielle Blackwood, it was voted Best Documentary Short Film. Due to Covid-19, the festival and awards ceremony were streamed live via social media platforms.

Blackwood said she was grateful and elated about the win saying: “I’m extremely happy about it.

But I’m even more excited about it because Laron is excited and ecstatic about the win. I’m excited because people are now getting to see and sharing his story.

“It’s really good to see him excited about it because we just followed him on this journey not expecting anything to come out of it; neither did he.

“I think he’s looking at the silver lining which is — even though he

suffered from his amputation and the hardships associated with it like re-learning how to walk and how to take care of himself — people now know who he is, what he has gone through and what he has achieved.”

‘Laron’ is Laron Williamson, the documentary’s central character and ‘Unbroken’ follows his quest to make Jamaica’s Olympic rowing team.

“He suffered from a freak accident at work”, Gabrielle said.

“He lost his job and was just in

search of bettering himself.

“He came upon the rowing team who just started and now he’s on the Jamaica rowing team.” But the paralympic team said the nature of his amputation prevented him from qualifying as he was too able-bodied.”

Blackwood was commissioned

by Getty Images UK through New Wave Jamaica to do the docu-film saying it took massive research before coming across Williamson’s story.

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JB WASSIFA CELEBRATES THE YOUNG GENERATION

S

outh & City Birmingham college teacher JB has always been at the forefront of young Birmingham!

Here is an example of a true entreprenuer in our city and has

l JB Wassifa Brown

made history as the very first young DJ in Birmingham to be playing on the famous Radio station Galaxy FM. He believes that young people need to see it to believe it!!

We celebrate JB's success this

Black History Month as he is all about now and what is to come.

In his own words he says that we have legends today, our history books in years to come will have a lot of achievers to talk about and really, we need to highlight them now.

It is no surprise that JB would be a massive musical influence in our community as we see he is following the footsteps of his legendary father Mykal Brown MBE the founder of the very famous Wassifa Showcase.

JB has gone from playing at small community centres to large concerts and selling out his own events such as Crossover and Touche.

Music and education work well together and this young man shows that DJS can be about more.

JB's passion is to pass his

knowledge of music younger generation.

to

the

How many years have you been a DJ?

I've been DJ’ing since a very young age. Records have always been accessable to me. It's difficult to put a date on it because I have always had a turntable in my room when I was younger.

My first few public event bookings would have been separate events with my Dad (Mykal Brown), Full Rass (Immortal Sound), Everton Jacobs (TC Connection), and Gee Tee. At the time I would have been about 13+. I remember DJing on a Monday night with Suga D & Gee Tee at Bel Air Nightclub, Fire mans Ball @ The Holte Suite (Aston Villa FC) with my Dad, Gee-Tee & Everton, Under 18's

and family birthday parties with Full Rass.

Over the years I have run my own events (The Crossover UK, Touché, Dancehall Meets The Club, So Sexy, Tasty, Fever, Late Night Blues, NYE Red Carpet Masquerade Ball, Easter Comedy "Candlelit" Dinner & Dance) in areas such as Birmingham, Coventry, Telford, Manchester & Liverpool.

I have DJed on events in all of England's main cities and performed alongside some of the UK's most sort after urban entertainers, Heartless Cru, Bassman, Pay As you Go, So Solid Crew, Chris Goldfinger, Seani B, Steve Sutherland, Sacha Brooks, Big John, DJ Pioneer, Hotsteppa, Preditah, Jamie Duggan, DJ Q, Murkz & loads more.

What is the most memorable show you have done with your father Mykal Brown?

Some of my most memorable events with my Dad are One Love Peace Festival 2011 featuring: Sean Paul, Shaggy, Bust Rhymes, John Holt, Skepta, Donaeo, Gyptain, Etarna & more, Beres Hammond Tour in 2016, and performing with some of the UK's top sound-systems (Saxon, Sir Coxsone, Fatman, Jah Shaka, Young Warrior, V Rocket, Luv Injection and Observa Supa Power. By myself: Dru Hill, SWV & Ginuwine in 2012, and Rick Ross Tour in 2016.

How do you want to contribute to black history?

JB: I would also like to lead by example by providing a modernday template of how to implement innovative ideas to create longterm business success.

The history I would like to leave behind is the blueprint on how to build generational wealth and unity amongst Black people.

What impact do you want to make on youth?

JB: I aim to help support young people to make the right longterm decisions to better their lives.

Drawing upon the influences in my life, I aim to mentor, coach, and support young people to succeed in their chosen field.

What's your title in college?

I’m theAssessor/Trainer for the Ignite Programme. Our programme aims to support our young people to overcome barriers impacting on their ability to succeed.

Our skills coaches - Apache Indian and Rawait Khan, helps our young people to build their confidence, interview skills and achieve meaningful work. The programme is funded by the West Midlands Combined Authority.

Check out JB on Instagram at jbwassifabrown.

Rising Star Flynn Releases Debut EP

I

reland’s rising talent Flynn has released just two solo tracks in 2020, but they’ve quickly placed him in prime position for greater things.

‘One of Us’ and ‘B-Side’ have introduced him as an artist with global potential, with numerous Spotify New Music Friday playlists plus The Pop List (Spotify) and New Pop Hits (Apple) helping to introduce him to a whole new audience.

His surging status has also been spotlighted with a quick succession of tips from influential tastemakers including The Line

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of Best Fit, Wonderland, Fault and Clash.

While those two songs have delivered a snapshot of Flynn’s talents, his debut EP, also titled ‘One Of Us’, will show that there’s much more to come – out now via Jive Germany / Sony, Flynn launches the EP with the focus track ‘Selling Me Love’.

‘Selling Me Love’ proves that Flynn is impossible to pigeonhole after the alt-pop of ‘One of Us’ and a modern update on the sounds of Stax with ‘B-Side’.

‘Selling Me Love’ is supremely larger-than-life, taking flight

from understated opening verse into a dynamic chorus that melds hip-hop energy and chartbound immediacy with a dash of muscular funk.

The trait that shines through all three songs is Flynn himself, with a voice of seasoned maturity emerging from the young artist.

“This is my first EP release”, says Flynn, “so I just really wanted to put my life so far into words and touch on all the little experiences I’ve encountered along the way.

“It feels so surreal to be able to finally share all these stories with everyone, I loved the whole process of making this EP and I’m really proud of it. I hope it resonates with people and they can take something away from it”.

In addition to the three recent singles, the ‘One of Us’ EP will be completed by the piano ballad ‘I Don’t Wanna Love You’ and the tropical soul of ‘Young’.

Flynn co-wrote all five of the EP’s tracks with collaborations including producers Toby Scott (Cashmere Cat, JC Stewart, Kaiser Chiefs) and Blair MacKichan (Sia, Lily Allen).

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RSC to focus on 2021 programme in Royal Shakespeare Theatre

‘Christmas is NOT Cancelled’ F

ollowing the soldout performances of ‘Lazuli Sky’, Birmingham Royal Ballet and Birmingham Repertory Theatre have announced a specially adapted production of the classic Christmas fairytale ‘The Nutcracker’, which will run at The REP from 14 – 22 December 2020.

This new adaptation of Birmingham Royal Ballet’s much-loved production will bring the family favourite to The REP for the very first time.

In a COVID-safe environment including socially distanced seating allocated to household or bubble groups only, they are able to tell The Nutcracker story in a way that is equally safe for the performers and production crew, on and off stage.

This Christmas, the full-length production will be shortened to an 80-minute magical

experience that will retain all of the most enchanting moments and characters from the classic full-length show.

‘The Nutcracker’ at The REP will whisk audiences from the heartwarming Christmas Eve party where Fritz and Clara meet the magician Drosselmeyer, to the rousing battle between King Rat and the toy soldiers, through a flurry of Snowflakes and onto a journey to the Kingdom of Sweets where Clara meets the Sugar Plum Fairy and her prince - all accompanied by the cherished Tchaikovsky score performed live by the Royal Ballet Sinfonia. This special series of shows will celebrate the 30th anniversary of Birmingham Royal Ballet’s original Birmingham Hippodrome production being created as a gift for the City in 1990.

The Nutcracker will also be performed the Royal Albert Hall this Christmas (30 Dec 2020 - 2

Creation Day festival tickets now on sale

Tickets are now on sale for Wolverhampton’s first-ever Creation Day festival. - two days of incredible live music from legendary UK bands who are set to rock West Park as part of the new festival next summer.

Happy Mondays, Editors, Ash, Echo & the Bunnymen, Black Grape and Sleeper are just some of the amazing acts set to take to the stage in West

Park over the weekend of May 29 and 30 2021.

Creation Day festival forms part of City of Wolverhampton Council’s ongoing commitment to re-light the city, help boost the local economy and offer high-profile events to attract visitors.

The two-day event is organised by the council in partnership with Toura Toura Festivals and Alan McGee,

Jan 2021).

Director of Birmingham Royal Ballet, Carlos Acosta said: “Following the fantastic experience of staging our first shows since lockdown at The REP, we are so happy to continue our collaboration with this very special version of The Nutcracker so that audiences in Birmingham and the West Midlands can have something to look forward to this Christmas.

“The Nutcracker is an essential part of our annual season and we can’t wait to welcome audiences back to The REP in December for this celebration.”

The REP’s Artistic Director, Sean Foley added; “It was wonderful to collaborate with Carlos Acosta and Birmingham Royal Ballet for the World Premiere performances of Will Tuckett’s Lazuli Sky -

and a particular thrill to welcome audiences safely back to The REP for the first time in seven months.

“We are just as excited to reveal the next stage in our ongoing creative partnership as we bring a special version of The Nutcracker to The REP for the very first time. A visit to theatre is an on-going Christmas tradition, and we can’t wait to

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share this magical experience with our audiences this festive season.”

This enchanting version of a Christmas favourite will be a fitting tribute to the company’s 30-year history, and one that looks to the future with hope and celebration. It is the quintessential Christmas treat for all the family.

The Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) will focus its programming in the Royal Shakespeare Theatre Stratfordupon-Avon over the coming year, with the Swan Theatre and The Other Place remaining closed until 2022.

The Company’s extensive education, digital and streaming activity will continue throughout the autumn and winter to allow people to experience the RSC in their homes and schools.

This winter, small-scale socially distanced performances will take place in the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and be streamed into homes.

The Company will also stage free outdoor activity, and plans to reopen its West End hit, ‘Matilda The Musical’ as soon as it is financially viable.

founder of the iconic Creation Records label - formed in 1983, becoming one of the key labels in 80s and 90s indie music. Over the years, he has worked with such major acts as Primal Scream, The Jesus and Mary Chain and Oasis.

Next year’s festival will see stars from Creation Records join forces with other wellknown bands to perform their biggest hits from 12.30pm to 10.45pm.

Bands playing on Saturday are Happy Mondays, Echo & the Bunnymen, Cast, Black Grape and Echobelly as well as new artists Shambolics, The Clockworks and The Illicits.

The line-up includes a Creation Day exclusive as it will be the first time that frontman Shaun Ryder has performed with his two bands, Happy Mondays and Black Grape, at one festival. Acts lined up for Sunday are Editors, Friendly Fires, Ash, Sleeper, Glasvegas, The Wedding Present as well as up and coming performers Heavy Lungs, Cat SFX and Marquis Drive.

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NEW ROLLS-ROYCE GHOST ARRIVES IN UNITED KINGDOM SHOWROOMS

T

he first New Rolls-Royce Ghosts have arrived in UK showrooms following a highly successful homemarket debut.

After final inspection at the Home of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood, England, the motor cars were dispatched to the marque’s seven home-market dealerships; Edinburgh, Manchester, Birmingham, Essex, London, Leeds and Sunningdale.

New Ghost is the result of exhaustive dialogue with the marque’s customers.

Many demanded a car that rejected unnecessary branding, affectation or obtrusive technology. In response to this, the marque’s designers immersed themselves in spaces that reflected a minimalist approach to statement design.

London played a particularly important role in defining the new Ghost’s design direction. The capital’s landmark Shard building informed the reductive approach to aesthetic form that came to be internally known as ‘Post Opulence’.

Designed by Pritzker Architecture Prize winning architect Renzo Piano, the building is widely praised for its monolithic yet simple forms delivered by highly complex

engineering processes.

This echoes Ghost’s design and development process, where the client requirement for simplicity was delivered through cutting-edge engineering and manufacturing techniques.

First customer deliveries for Ghost and Ghost Extended will commence late Q4 2020.

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MOTORPOINT RAISES MONEY FOR CHARITIES

M

otorpoint has helped raise almost £2,000 for two West Yorkshire charities.

The UK’s largest independent car retailer, which is based in Castleford, put on a special outdoor screening of classic rom com ‘Pretty Woman’ in the grounds of its five-acre branch near Xscape Yorkshire and J32 Outlet Centre earlier this month.

It also hosted the town’s firstever Drive In Bingo prior to the movie with a host of prizes up for grabs for the winners including a special sweet-filled hamper donated by Haribo.

And, the sell-out socially distanced event, which attracted over 250 people on the night, helped to raise £1,875 to support the work of the Castleford Tigers Foundation and The Prince of Wales Hospice in the community.

Richard Start, General Manager of Motorpoint Castleford, said: “It was fantastic to see so many people having a wonderful

socially distanced time at Motorpoint, in spite of the rain, watching ‘Pretty Woman’.

It’s been a really tough year for charities in terms of fundraising, with so many events having been cancelled, so it’s been very humbling to have been able to help out by raising money to support the fantastic work done by the Castleford Tigers Foundation and The Prince of Wales across West Yorkshire.”

Mat Lancaster, Head of Operations at the Castleford Tigers Foundation, added: “I really can’t thank Motorpoint enough for hosting the Drive In Cinema. It was a huge undertaking, given the current COVID-19 regulations, but the response from film goers was absolutely brilliant and the money it generated will be very beneficial.”

Jill Kirkham, Fundraising Manager at The Prince of Wales Hospice, said: “Everyone at the hospice would like to thank the team at Motorpoint Castleford

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Clock Change Cancellation Could Save UK Economy £160M Based on previous Government estimates that 80 lives a year could be saved by scrapping the October clock change, the UK could reduce the number of people killed on our roads by four and a half per cent and save the economy £160m, says the UK’s largest independent road safety charity, IAM RoadSmart, who is calling on the Government to stop the practice.

The charity believes that moving to a permanent daylightsaving system would significantly improve road safety.

“Every year there are unnecessary victims of road collisions throughout the winter months during commutes to work or school which could easily be avoided if the Government scrapped the process of changing the clocks,” comments Neil Greig, Policy and Research Director at IAM RoadSmart.

for their continued support. The money raised will help us to be there when it matters for people across the whole of the Five Towns.”

Over 14 Million UK Drivers Get Nervous When Driving In The Dark Nearly a third (29 per cent) of UK motorists – over 14 million drivers – get nervous when driving in the dark according to new research by SEAT UK. With the days getting shorter and the clocks due to go back on 25th October, the lack of daylight hours means most drivers will have to make more trips in the dark.

The survey of 2,000 motorists also revealed that 31 per cent of drivers actively avoid driving in the dark if possible. Of those who said driving in the dark makes them nervous, over two thirds (68 per cent) said this is because they do not like having lower visibility.

Perhaps surprisingly, 1824-year olds (37 per cent) are

most likely to feel nervous about driving in the dark, while experience counts, as only 25 per cent of over 55s have concerns.

London drivers (40 per cent) are significantly more likely to get nervous when driving in the dark, and are more likely to avoid getting behind the wheel when it is dark (43 per cent), followed by motorists from the West Midlands (34 per cent).

However, drivers in the South East are the most comfortable taking to wheel when the night has drawn in, with only 25 per cent saying they would avoid driving when it is dark.

Lighting technology has advanced greatly recently, with auto-dip functionality and LED light systems being adopted

by SEAT. However, traditional halogen lights are still present in the majority of the UK’s car parc.

The luminous efficiency of SEAT’s latest LED bulbs mean they provide almost double the luminosity (900 lumens versus 550 lumens) of standard LEDs and even more so than halogen bulbs. The white light of an LED also allows drivers to see further into the distance.

Throughout the design of every new SEAT model, which can have up to 300 individual LED light sources that last 10,000 hours, its Design & Lighting team conducts over 300 3D light simulations to deliver the best possible performance in any environment.

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Controversy reigns over funeral of reggae legend Toots Hibbert

T

he funeral for the founding fathers of reggae music, Frederick ‘Toots’ Hibbert, was stalled on eve of the planned service after no could find the burial permit as the body made its way to the Dovecot Memorial Gardens in St. Catherine, in Jamaica.

It followed concerns from family members who were disappointed at him being laid to rest outside his hometown. Hibbert’s daughter Jenieve Bailey, previously announced the decision to have her father’s body to be laid to rest in May Pen, in Clarendon, where other family members were

buried.

Toots’ nephew, Wilbert, said: “The whole family agreed for him to come back home to where his mother, father, three brothers and sister are buried. He needs to take the country road back to the place where he belongs. You don’t need anything plainer than that.”

But just days before the planned date of burial, the announcement was made about a change in the place of rest.

In defending his stance he went on: “He sings about the country road in one of his biggest songs, and he is always visiting us down here. He never left us out.”

He went on: “From the time

Miss Doreen (Toots’ widow) and some of the children came down here and chose the land, we didn’t hear a word. No grave digging was going on down here and everybody — my mother, sisters and aunt — were asking me what is happening?”

The day of the burial saw the planned procession, with a private service for close family members which took place at Perry’s Funeral Home chapel.

Hibbert’s body was transported to Dovecot Memorial Gardens, but no one in attendance possessed the burial certificate, which is usually provided by the Registrar General Department when receiving a

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Rapper Ludacris partners with daughter, Kamara, to produce Netflix series signed death certificate.

Without a signed burial order, the body cannot be placed in the grave.

Following the family being unable to provide the relevant documents, Toots’ body was returned to the funeral home.

The reggae legend, 77, was admitted to the University Hospital of the West Indies after reporting concerns with his breathing before later passing away as a result of challenges brought on by COVID-19 last month.

Rapper and actor Chris Bridges, more popularly known as Ludacris, is set to produce a new animated series called ‘Karma’s World’ inspired by his eldest daughter Karma Bridges.

The series will be released on Netflix soon.

Ludacris’ production company Karma’s World Entertainment is one of the producers of the coming-ofage story that will follow the life of 10-year old girl Karma Grant, an aspiring musical artist, rapper, and songwriter, who wanted to use her music to be able to change the world.

The 40-episode series with 11-minutes screentime

each will feature original music scoring created and supervised by Ludacris himself in collaboration with James Bennett Jr. and produced by Gerald Keys. The compositions tackle the issues young children are facing from friendship, creativity, emotions to selfesteem, and discrimination.

Karma’s World Entertainment is partnering with 9 Story Media Group, Oscarnominated Brown Bag Films, and Emmy Award-winning Creative Affairs Group to produce the new series.

Ludacris is hoping the series will get to inspire young children and empower young girls.

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Celebrate Positivity And Stay Safe

I

was determined this month that my article goes with a bang and is as vibrant as a flashing firework that will be going off up and down the country.

For it is that time of the year, when everybody can get together and celebrate Guy Fawkes Night on the 5th November.

But unfortunately this year things will go not so much as a bang but more of a fizz because of the Covid-19 Global Pandemic.

So this year’s celebrations will have to be on hold until we can all have a World Party Day when (Cirus The Virus as I call it ) has been beaten and lockdowns as we know it, are no more.

We will get through this together if we all remain positive, because these words are so important in our lives today.

Which reminds me of an old African proverb I once heard.

‘If You Want To Go Fast - Go Alone’ / ‘If You Want To Go Far - Go Together’ Positivity is having a strong belief and confidence in someone or something.

This positive mindset is what helps us get through the tough days and the major obstacles we all experience in life.

So if you are facing any issues and you are feeling helpless and lost because of problems, just really concentrate believing there is a solution to be found if you look hard enough.

Most importantly talk with others who can offer support, help and guidance to you. Talk, talk, talk, and have a Never Give Up and have a Never Say Can’t attitude in life.

My life as a world strength athlete and my knowledge of health & well-being and nutrition is something I am able to pass on but what makes me who I am and my ability in achieving what I have done throughout my career, is my mindstrength and ability to manage the mindmonkeys.

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www.streetcredmagazine.com www.streetcredmagazine.com

As I have said so many times and I will keep on saying it, ‘Your Mind / My Mind Is The Highest Level Of Strength’.

As Walt Disney is renowned for saying ‘If You Can Think It, You Can Do It’ Positive thinking can help in so many ways, especially when all doors are shut, just keep thinking those words ‘The mind is the highest level of strength, your mind is the highest level of strength’. As hard and as difficult as it is now in this negative climate do not let the mind-monkeys take over, in your mind say to yourself the following: • Never say can’t, say I can do • Things may be bad now but will only get better.

• I will not let the mind-monkeys beat me.

• I am strong and not weak • I can get through this dilemma • I need to stay positive and not have negative thoughts • I must go to war on myself and not on others • I am stronger than I think • I will never give up The one mantra that helps me so much is ‘‘Whatever the mind of man can conceive, he can achieve” in other words if it’s Thinkable it is Doable. You have to have an unshakeable belief in yourself, because if you don’t believe in yourself, how can you expect other people to believe in you. Because if you believe in yourself you can achieve great things and positive outcomes are within your grasp.

Spread the Love and Stay Safe.

MADE BIRMINGHAM IN

I

ENTERTAINMENT

The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020 - Page 31

Mind, Body & Soul

Spirit Guides - Who And What Are They?

W

e all have spirit guides that help and guide us throughout our time here on Earth.

So who are these unseen guides?

They are spiritual beings who come in many forms.

1. Angels 2. Animal guides 3. Gods/Goddesses 4. Ancestors 5. Star Beings 6. Nature Spirits 7. Ascended Masters As well as passed family members that want to help and guide you on your life journey. We all seek comfort and love in times of desperation.

We all have a need to know that there is something ‘out there’ that will have our best interests at heart and look after us , without judgement and with love.

Our guides are here to support us ALWAYS, not just in times of trouble.

They will never let you down, they are available 24/7 at no cost.

By opening yourself up to receiving their divine guidance - opens up another dimension of pure love.

The more you ask your guides for assistance - the more you receive, but be

specific about what you need guidance on , it can be anything.

Say it as it is and let your guides deal with it as they know best. Find time to connect to these wonderful, unseen, loving guides.

Sit quietly and try and connect to them, you may feel the energy around you change slightly as they move closer to you .

Talk to them , be aware of them. Open your mind to them. Some people can hear and/or see their guides.

You may see little flashes of light in the room when you’re connecting to them, Please don’t be afraid - they come to you with pure love.

If you meditate, listen to any messages/ words you may receive from your guides.

Ask for a sign of their presence. A feather in an unusual place is the most popular sign of an angelic presence.

Remember they are your personal guides, to help you get through whatever life throws at you - the good, bad and the ugly times.

Be patient , make a strong connection with them and live your best life.

And ALWAYS be thankful.

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Page 32 - The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020

ENTERTAINMENT

www.streetcredmagazine.com

Principal Dancer Misty Says Ballet Is Listening After George Floyd Killing Having made history as the first Black Female Principal Dancer with the prestigious American Ballet Theatre, Misty Copeland has said that ballet is listening after George Floyd killing.

"As the world is changing, as it grows more diverse, if the ballet world doesn't evolve with it, then it's going to die," she said.

She says that after George Floyd's death and the focus on Black Lives Matter, for the first time in her 20-year career, people are starting to listen to her about the problem of diversity within the global ballet industry.

Misty became the first Black woman to become the principal dancer at the American Ballet Theatre in its 81-year history.

A true prodigy, she was dancing en pointe within three months of taking her first dance class and performing professionally in just over a year: a feat unheard of for any classical dancer.

"There's so many communities that are not going to support an art form that they feel does not want them to be a part of it," she says.

Born in Kansas City, Missouri Misty was raised in San Pedro, California, before beginning her ballet studies at the late age of thirteen. At fifteen, she won first place in the Music Centre

Spotlight Awards.

She studied at the San Francisco Ballet School and American Ballet Theatre’s Summer Intensive on full scholarship and was declared ABT’s National Coca-Cola Scholar in 2000. Misty joined ABT’s Studio Company in 2000, joined American Ballet Theatre as a member of the corps de ballet in 2001, and in 2007 became the company’s second Black female Soloist and the first in two decades.

In 2015, Misty was promoted to principal dancer, making her the first Black woman to ever be promoted to the position in the company’s 75-year history.

Rapper Logic Pays £173,000 For A Rare Charizard Card

A

few cars, a luxury holiday, pay off your student debt or maybe buy a... super-rare Pokemon card.

That's how much rapper and streamer Logic reportedly spent on a 1st edition Charizard Pokemon card at a live auction during which, he tweeted Logan Paul, who also collects them, to let him know that he won.

He also spent $23,000 (£17,600) on a box of unopened Pokemon, containing another Charizard card and a few other rare cards.

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Speaking on Instagram about his love for Pokemon and how he struggled to afford the cards as a child, he wrote: "Being able to enjoy something that I've loved since childhood now as a grown man is like buying back a piece of something I could never have.”

In the late 90's, collecting and trading Pokemon cards was a staple part of childhood.

The packs sold for around £3 each at the time. And now, although less people may collect the cards, Pokemon is still just as popular, with games released on

mobile and consoles.

While most of the cards won't be worth anything close to the one Logic bought, it's possible that collections could have increased in price this year.

A leading trading cards and collectibles shop owner, said: "The regular Charizard card might be worth around £300," "Most cards that people have will be the mass-produced ones so they won’t be worth as much, but they can still be worth a lot of money as long as the cards are in good condition.

"The price for the vintage Pokemon cards seems to be going up and since lockdown and the demand for the retro cards have gone through the roof."

Featuring the fan-favourite, firebreathing dragon, the 1st edition Charizard card was first seen in 1999. Different editions of the card have sold for different prices, but the holographic 'shadowless' version is said to be worth the most.

The $226,000 that Logic spent is the largest amount spent on the card, according to Cardhops.

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The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020 - Page 33

OBITUARIES AND NOTICE BOARD

Sir Sean Connery

Nobby Stiles MBE

B

orn in Fountainbridge in Edinburgh, his first major film appearance was in British gangster film No Road Back, in 1957, before first playing James Bond in Dr No in 1962.

He was the first to bring the role to the big screen and he appeared in seven of the spy thrillers, making the character his own, blending ruthlessness with sardonic wit.

He enjoyed a career spanned five decades - and he won an Oscar in 1988 for his role in The Untouchables. His other major blockbuster films included The Hunt for Red October, Highlander, Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade and The Rock.

A proud Scot, he was knighted by the Queen at Holyrood Palace in Edinburgh in 2000.

Current James Bond, Daniel Craig, said Sir Sean was "one of the true greats of cinema”.

He died peacefully in his sleep in the Bahamas, age 90.

B

orn in Manchester in1942, he played every minute of England's victorious 1966 World Cup campaign; his post-match celebration - dancing on the Wembley pitch, holding the World Cup trophy in one hand and his false teeth in the other – is etched in the memory for ever.

Playing most of his club career

Eddie Van Halen Johnny Nash T T he legendary and revered guitarist and co-founder of the rock ban Van Halen, Eddie Van Halen, died of cancer.

His son announced that the Dutch-American musician died after undergoing treatment for throat cancer.

The musician’s band was best known for their song Jump, which hit the top of the US charts in 1984.

His son Wolfgang paid tribute to him on social media, saying he was the best father he could ever ask for. "My heart is broken and I don't think I'll ever fully recover from this loss. I love you so much, Pop," his son wrote.

He died at St John’s Hospital in Santa Monica surrounded by his family, age 65.

he American reggae and pop singer-songwriter was best known for the 1972 hit I Can See Clearly Now. Born in Houston, Texas, he was one of the first non-Jamaican singers to record reggae music in Kingston. The single sold more than a million copies and reached the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1972.

He began singing as a child and made his major label debut with the 1957 song A Teenager Sings the Blues. He also had a No.1 hit in the UK in 1975 with Tears on My Pillow.

According to his official website, he helped reggae legend

Frank Bough

B

B

orn in Stoke-on-Trent, in Staffordshire, the journalist, newsreader, television presenter and sports commentator was best known for anchoring Grandstand, Nationwide and Breakfast Time, which he launched alongside Selina Scott and Nick Ross.

He was renowned for his smooth, relaxed and professional approach to live broadcasts, once being described as "the most unassailable performer on British television" He was sacked by the BBC in 1988 following revelations that he had taken cocaine and used prostitutes. He later presented

programmes on London Weekend Television, ITV, Sky TV and on London's LBC radio before his retirement in 1998.

He was a regular member of a Windsor-based choir, the Royal Free Singers. Bough had a liver transplant in 2001 after cancer was found, and later lived in retirement in Holyport, Berkshire.

Married to wife Nesta since 1954 with three children, he died in a care home, aged 87.

orn Robert Harper in Oldham, England, in 1944, he was best known professionally as Bobby Ball.

A comedian, actor and singer, he is best known as one half of the double act Cannon and Ball, with Tommy Cannon.

They hosted their own ITV show The Cannon and Ball Show for nine years between 1979 and 1988. He since went on to star in a variety of sitcoms and dramas including Last of The Summer Wine, Heartbeat, Not Going Out, Benidorm and in 2005, he took part in the fifth series of I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here!.

He became a born-again Christian in 1986, as did Cannon in 1992, with their conversion having a lot to do with the re-kindling of their broken friendship. Together, they published a book called Christianity for Beginners. They

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for Manchester United, he won two League titles and one European Cup before playing for Middlesbrough and Preston North End. He then managed Preston, Vancouver Whitecaps in the NASL and West Bromwich Albion back in England.

Between 1989 and 1993 he was youth team coach at United developing the likes of David Beckham, Ryan Giggs, Paul

Scholes, Nicky Butt, and Gary and Phil Neville.

He was awarded his MBE 2000, but had to sell his World Cup and European Cup medals – bought

by Manchester United – so that his family could benefit from the proceeds Suffering with prostate cancer and advanced dementia he died aged 78.

Archie Lyndhurst

T Bob Marley sign a recording contract.

More recently, he started work on transferring old analogue tapes of his songs from the 1970s and 1980s to a new digital format.

His health had been in decline and he died at his home of natural survived by his wife, Carli and son John. He was 80.

Bobby Ball

he CBBC star was best known for playing Ollie Coulton in the comedy show So Awkward.

Beginning his acting career at the Sylvia Young Theatre School at the age of 10, in 2013, his father told the BBC that his son had inherited the "acting gene".

He appeared in So Awkward from its first series in 2015. In a statement, his father, Only Fools and Horses actor Nicholas Lyndhurst,who appeared alongside him in a 2019 episode of the programme - said he and wife Lucy were "utterly grief stricken and respectfully request privacy".

CBBC head of content Cheryl Taylor said he was "such a talented young actor", adding: "All of us at BBC Children's are devastated."

She added: "He will be greatly missed by us all and our deepest condolences go out to his family and friends at this time."

He died at the age of 19 after a short illness.

Al Malcolm

B

now regularly feature in their own gospel and "An audience with..." show in churches around the country.

He died after being tested positive for Covid-19 age 76.

orn in Handsworth, in Birmingham, in 1954, the heavyweight boxer made his professional debut in 1983 with a record of 33 bouts with 24.24% knockout rating.

He was the first professional opponent for former world heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis, with favourites including old favourites included Costas Petrou and Robert McCracken.

He was one of 7 siblings and moved to Selly Oak, before moving to the Pannel Croft retirement settlement, in Newtown, Birmingham, as his mobility began to deteriorate.

He then moved to Winson Green’s Avery Court care facilities before passing away leaving behind three children.

He was 62.

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Page 34 - The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020

AZUZA STREET

Following House of Lords row John Sentamu peerage likely

T

he former Archbishop of York Dr John Sentamu is expected to get a life peerage after the government was accused of "institutional prejudice" for failing to ennoble him.

Dr Sentamu, the UK's first Black

archbishop, retired in June after 15 years.

Despite all his predecessors being made peers and allowed to continue sitting in the House of Lords he was not. But a source told the Press Association the move was now "imminent".

The Whitehall source said the delay was due to a procedural hold up with the House of Lords Appointments Commission.

Previously a No 10 spokesman had told the Sunday Times Dr Sentamu was kept off the list to keep House of Lords numbers

down, despite the prime minister including his brother, Jo Johnson.

As an archbishop, Dr Sentamu was among the 26 lords spiritual who have places reserved in the upper chamber of Parliament for Church of England bishops.

After he stepped down, Dr Sentamu was informed by No 10 he was in line for a peerage and was asked to confirm his suitability and willingness to accept, it was reported.

However, a month later he was told that his name would not be included.

His successor, the Most Reverend Stephen Cottrell, said he had been "disturbed" at the

l Dr John Sentamu move.

Shadow Justice Minister David Lammy, said on Twitter: "No 10 broke a precedent and snubbed Britain's first Black archbishop for a peerage because it says the House of Lords is too large, but it made room for Ian Botham, Claire Fox and Theresa May's husband.

A No 10 spokesman said the process for Dr Sentamu's nomination was "well under way".

Pope Names First Black American Cardinal l Pope Francis meeting then Archbishop Wilton Daniel Gregory Pope Francis has said he will appoint 13 new Roman Catholic cardinals, among them the first African-American clergyman.

The Pope announced the cardinals, from eight nations, in a surprise address from his window overlooking St Peter's Square in Rome.

Wilton Daniel Gregory, the progressive 72-year-old Archbishop of Washington DC, will be one of them. The cardinals will be installed in a ceremony at the Vatican on 28 November.

Cardinals are the most senior clergymen in the Roman Catholic Church below the pontiff.

Their role includes electing the pope - the head of the Church who is chosen from among them at a secret gathering known as a conclave.

The nine nominees who will be eligible to vote come from Italy,

Malta, Rwanda, the United States, the Philippines, Chile, Brunei and Mexico.

Vatican experts say the appointment of new cardinals will cement Pope Francis's influence on the clergymen who will one day elect his successor.

In the US, Archbishop Gregory has been a prominent voice in the effort to root out abuse within the Church.

He has been critical of President Donald Trump over his use of rhetoric and visits to religious sites. The archbishop rebuked the president's resent visit to a shrine to St John Paul II in Washington, calling it "baffling and reprehensible".

As president of the US bishops' conference, Archbishop Gregory persuaded church leaders to adopt tougher penalties for abusers in 2002.

How the Church of England co-owns hits from Beyoncé to Bon Jovi The Church of England is said to be co-owners of Beyoncé's Single Ladies, Rihanna's Umbrella and Justin Timberlake's SexyBack and is one of hundreds of investors in a company called Hipgnosis, which, for the past three years, has been hungrily snapping up the rights to thousands of hit songs.

So far, it has spent more than $1bn (£776m) on music

by Mark Ronson, Chic, Barry Manilow and Blondie.

Its latest acquisition is the song catalogue of LA Reid, meaning it has a share in tracks like Boyz II Men's End Of The Road, Whitney Houston's I'm Your Baby Tonight and Bobby Brown's Don't Be Cruel.

And when those songs get played on the radio or placed in a film or TV show, Hipgnosis makes money.

And, by association, does the Church of England, along with other investors like Aviva, Investec and Axa. According to Hipgnosis founder Merck Mercuriadis, the music he's bought is "more valuable than gold or oil".

"These great, proven songs are very predictable and reliable in their income streams," he explained.

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The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020 - Page 35

NEWS

Climate friendly project supports new enterprises

T

he University of Wo l v e r h a m p t o n ’s Built Environment Climate Change Innovations (BECCI) project has launched its new Innovation Incubator programme with the aim of supporting climate friendly business ideas.

The UK government funded incubator programme is designed to support and nurture the development of new ideas and new enterprises using low carbon innovation, delivering a step change in the sustainability of the built environment with a primary focus on climate change and buildings.

The programme supports earlystage entrepreneurs, providing them with the skills, mentoring and networking opportunities to turn their ideas into viable businesses.

Businesses were invited to apply and following a selection process, six new enterprises were selected to join the first cohort of entrepreneurs with a launch event successfully hosted via Zoom by BECCI team members Richard Davies MBE, Knowledge Transfer Manager, and Lauren Clarke, Marketing Executive.

Richard Davies MBE, BECCI Knowledge Transfer Manager who is leading the creation of the Incubator, said: “There was so much hope and optimism in the Zoom room during the launch. With the twin challenges of the climate emergency and Covid-19, it was a real privilege

l BECCI Team: Glenn Barrowman, Neil Young, Gabriel Martinez, Rajiv Dhanjal, Dr Pablo Perez, Lauren Clarke, Dr Paul Hampton to witness the zest and energy of the successful six teams. I am so excited to see where they lead.

“The programme supports entrepreneurs to start-up and grow their climate change focused business ideas. The start-ups are part of a vibrant cohort of entrepreneurs. During Phase 1 of the programme they will receive a 3-month bespoke package of strategic support and practical business help and they will work collaboratively on their businesses to achieve their ambitions.

Chamber says more support needed for hardest hit Business leaders in Greater Birmingham welcomed the Chancellor’s new business support measures but warned that more needs to be done for the hardest hit.

Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) said that despite promises from the Prime Minister, there was little comfort from Rishi Sunak for many sectors, including sport and expos.

Paul Faulkner, the GBCC’s chief executive, promised that the Chamber would continue to support members and the wider community by lobbying for additional support where needed.

He said: “The Chancellor made his intentions clear from the outset – the business landscape has completely altered since the start of March and the new measures reflect the underlying fragility we face as a society as the Government attempts to revive the economy whilst also containing the spread of Covid-19.”

“The launch was a great success, gaining positive feedback from all of the entrepreneurs who said it was “inspiring”, “motivational” and “insightful”.”

The programme’s first cohort includes a varied mix of climate change ideas including a new low cost sustainable energy retrofitting service for existing homes, a simple product to address heat loss from loft hatches and capturing carbon dioxide directly from the air in the built environment.

Students and Pura Cosmetics become first UK Amazon Campus Challenge Winners Students from Birmingham University have teamed up with Pura Cosmetics, creators of the eco-friendly solutions to dry, chapped and sore lips, for the Amazon Campus Challenge and have been crowned the first UK winners.

Participating and winning the competition has resulted in Pura Cosmetics’ popularity on Amazon and their lip products being available on Amazon Prime.

The team of students have won £10,000 as well as being fast-tracked in the interview process for an Amazon Graduate Role.

The team of students, Arushi Madan, Nikhila Chittoor and Arun Venu, collaborated with Pura Cosmetics for this challenge, founded by Rose Dyson, a multi award winning 20-year-old entrepreneur from Barnsley, which formed a positive synergy of young adults showcasing their talents

l Students, Arushi Madan, Nikhila Chittoor and Arun Venu in business management, logistics and marketing.

During the competition, the team worked on a strategy for launching Pura Cosmetics’ vegan and ethical lip care products and gift sets onto Amazon for the first time, building brand visibility on the popular online platform, over the course of 9 months.

Over 200 teams entered the Amazon Campus Challenge, which consisted of three stages. The first round of the

competition was Preparation, in which the team worked on an e-commerce strategy for selling on Amazon.

The second stage was Online Sales, learning how to use development tools on Amazon that can help the business grow, whilst facing the demands of online sales with real customers and real competitors. This stage also involved the team being confronted with real business and economic challenges.

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Page 36 - The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Surrogacy case shows gaps in fertility law A surrogacy case where an intended mother struggled to gain a parental order for her child when the intended father suddenly died, has highlighted significant gaps in fertility law according to a specialist lawyer.

In the case there was a domestic surrogacy arrangement between Mrs Y and Mr Y as the intended parents, and Mrs Z (the surrogate) and Mr Z. An embryo was created using Mrs Z’s eggs and Mr Y’s sperm.

Sadly, Mr Y died unexpectedly before the child’s birth and therefore before an application was made for a parental order.

In the UK the surrogate mother and her partner are considered the child’s legal parents until a parental order is made.

The case concerned Mrs Y’s

application - supported by Mrs Z and Mr Z - on behalf of both herself and her deceased husband (Mr Y) for a parental order.

Sarah Wood-Heath, a specialist ‘modern family’ lawyer with national law firm Clarke Willmott LLP said: “In this case the Courts had to interpret section 54 of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act (2008).

“It was held that such ‘a reading down’ would be allowed and that the child’s welfare required the Court to make a parental order.”

Mrs Y’s case followed a long and emotional infertility journey in which she and her husband had received several unsuccessful rounds of IVF treatment before considering surrogacy.

DPS sampling offer inexpensive access to COVID-19 testing U sing dried blood spot samples (DBS) is an accurate alternative to venous blood in detecting SARS-CoV-2 antibody tests, a new study by immunology experts at the University of Birmingham has found.

Currently antibody testing for COVID-19 uses serum or plasma, which requires a full intravenous blood sample, collected by a trained phlebotomist. For population-wider high volume testing, the use of such sampling is limited by logistic challenges, resources, and costs, as well as

the risk of SARS-CoV-2 exposure from direct patient contact.

In contrast, DBS sampling is simple, inexpensive and can be self-collected by the patient at home, using a simple finger prick.

The sample can then be collected on a forensic grade card before being posted back to labs for processing. This offers exciting possibilities to widen access to antibody testing particularly in more resource limited countries.

Researchers analysed serum and DBS samples from volunteers at University Hospitals Birmingham Foundation NHS Trust, some of whom had previously tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 by molecular tests, while the status of other volunteers was either negative or unknown.

The anonymised matched serum and DBS samples were then processed using a highly sensitive ELISA test, developed by the University’s Clinical Immunology Service in partnership with The Binding Site, which specifically detects antibodies (IgG, IgA and IgM) to the SARS-CoV-2 trimeric spike protein.

Results showed a significant correlation between matched DBS and serum samples and minimal differences in results observed by sample type, with negligible discordance.

Relative to serum samples, DBS samples achieved 98% sensitivity and 100% specificity for detecting anti-SARS-CoV-2 S glycoprotein antibodies. 100% of the PCRpositive samples were also antibody-positive in DBS. Senior author Dr Matthew O’Shea from the University’s

Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy said: “Our results have demonstrated that dry blood spot sampling not only offers a viable alternative for antibodies testing, but one that overcomes the limitations that current methods can present by eliminating the need for skilled phlebotomists.

“DBS offers the opportunity for wider population-level testing and improved surveillance in vulnerable groups such as patients with chronic conditions, the immunocompromised and the elderly by removing the need to come into contact with a healthcare professional during sample collection.”

Co-author Professor Adam Cunningham said: “As well as offering the opportunity for improved population-wide antibody testing in the UK, the simplicity and cost-effectiveness of the dry blood spot method could improve the effectiveness of sampling in low and middleincome countries, among groups where venepuncture is culturally unacceptable or in geographically dispersed populations.”

The full paper ‘Sensitive Detection of SARS-CoV-2– Specific Antibodies in Dried Blood Spot Samples’ was published on 24 September 2020 in an Emerging Infectious Diseases.

Movember launches 2020 campaign Personalities including Peter Crouch, Sir Mo Farah and Russell Tovey are among the famous faces appearing in a series of portraits for the Movember 2020.

The annual campaign aimed at raising awareness of male mental health issues and suicide prevention, as well as testicular and prostate cancer sees model Abbey Clancy (who’s married to Crouch), singer Liam Payne and George The Poet also being photographed.

Other celebrities involved include musicians Miles Kane and Jesse Wood, rugby player Chris Robshaw and actor Sam Claflin.

Speaking about taking part in the campaign, former England striker Crouch said: “I've long supported Movember and the

important work they do for prostate cancer, testicular cancer and male mental health.

“It's been an honour to join the campaign this year and get behind the cause by growing a mo.

“This year more than ever, I urge everyone to get involved in the month-long movement and

show your support in any way you can.”

Movember CEO, Michelle Terry, said: “It's great to see so many well-known faces put on a united front in support of men's health, inspiring men and women to get involved and support our fundraising drive this Movember.”

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The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020 - Page 37

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Pupils transformed into Flu Fighters to join winter battle H undreds of children have become Flu Fighters and will be joining the battle against influenza this winter as the free vaccination programme continues in schools in Wolverhampton.

All pupils from Reception to Year 7 are eligible for the free flu vaccination this year, delivered via a quick and painless nasal spray, and parents should return their child’s consent form as soon as possible to ensure they don't miss out.

The award-winning Flu Fighters campaign is back for a third year to encourage children to get vaccinated, with free copies of this year's out of this world storybook, Flu Fighters in Close Encounters of the Germed Kind, being distributed to all primaryaged pupils. All pupils, including those in Year 7, will also receive consent forms and information about the nasal spray.

Councillor Jasbir Jaspal, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Public Health and Wellbeing, said: "We're delighted that the flu vaccination campaign is well underway in local schools and this year, more than ever, it's vital that you ensure your child doesn’t miss out.

"Flu can be deadly and easily spread by children and adults.

The vaccine is the best way to protect your children and other family members from becoming ill with the flu, particularly more vulnerable relatives like grandparents or those with underlying health conditions.

"I would urge parents to return their consent forms as soon as they receive them so that their children can have their free vaccine and become a Flu Fighter!"

The free nasal spray is also available to children aged two and three, and children aged 11 and over with some long-term health conditions, via GPs.

Adults people with long-term health conditions, people who were shielding from coronavirus and their families, the over 65s, carers and care staff, people

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in long-stay women are free flu jabs pharmacist.

To find

care and pregnant also eligible for through their GP or out

more

about

the vaccine, and to read and download free copies of the first two Flu Fighters books, Flu Fighters Versus Chilly, Achy and Snotty and Flu Fighters in The

Battle of Planet Bogey, visit: www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/ flufighters. A short video can be seen here https://youtu.be/ lVcF21DhAN8.

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Page 38 - The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Rural Midlands Is Lagging Behind Rest Of UK For Defibrillators A Memorial Trust with the ambition of saving as many lives as possible in the West Midlands has been officially launched.

The Henry Angell-James Memorial Trust (HAJMT), which aims to purchase as many Automatic External Defibrillators (AED’s) as possible, and donate them to worthy applicants, officially launched with the installation of an AED at St Alkmunds Church, in Shrewsbury.

It was launched to create a legacy in honour of Henry Angell-James, who passed away aged 54 in October 2017 after suffering a cardiac arrest on his regular train journey home from Birmingham.

His wife, Sally, felt she wanted to put something back into the community that had been such an important part of her husband’s life.

Campaign highlights impact of loneliness

A l “Lonely in the raging sea” by Anna, aged 20, features in the “Your New Normal. My Normal.” campaign.

s part of their Common Ground project, Changing Our Lives have launched a new social media campaign, “Your New Normal.

My Normal.”, with art work being displayed virtually by Wolverhampton Art Gallery.

The project aims to tackle youth loneliness by bringing together young disabled people and their non-disabled peers to build connections in the community.

For the campaign, funded by the Coop Foundation, young people were asked to share their stories of loneliness by getting creative and producing artwork of many forms.

Due to the coronavirus lockdown, work on the project became virtual. There was also an increased awareness of loneliness as people spent time apart.

Some young people reported feeling isolated from their communities and families as they got used to ‘the new normal’.

However, for many young people, these feelings of loneliness are the ‘everyday normal’ and Changing Our Lives sought to capture this through the creative works of young people.

Several pieces of artwork were completed by young people from Wolverhampton through Real Arts, a project commissioned by the WV Holiday Squad.

Artwork is being displayed in an online exhibition with Wolverhampton Art Gallery at www.wolverhamptonart.org.uk/ changingourlives as well as on Changing Our Lives social media channels, @ChangingOurLives on Facebook or @Positive_Lives on Twitter.

Councillor John Reynolds, the

City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: “Since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic, many young people will have felt lonely – not being able to see their loved ones or school friends, having underlying health conditions which have meant they have had to shield, or not being able to take part in their normal day-to-day activities.

“This campaign is a great way of highlighting the impact that loneliness can have on young people and we are delighted that some of the great pieces of work is being displayed as an online exhibition at our city’s art gallery.”

Base 25, a service in Wolverhampton delivers children and young people’s wellbeing services.

Supporting ‘Clean Air Day’ to become ‘Clean Air All The Time’ The return of ‘Clean Air Day’ saw the government, industry bodies and pioneers in sustainability calling on the British public to help making it the cleanest Clean Air Day yet.

Confirming support for the initiative, a survey by Venson Automotive Solutions showed that 47% of people want to play their part in reducing pollution by tackling traffic emissions.

Road transport accounts for 22% of total UK emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) - one of the biggest sources of pollution in the UK - and according to researchers at Centre for Cities, long-term exposure to air pollution is killing one in 19 people having a huge impact on the lives of those who live in the UK's cities.

Countering these health risks, 38% of people surveyed by Venson believe the government should introduce more clean air zones as well as encourage

an increase the take-up of electric vehicles. Despite an unprecedented fall in emission levels during lockdown, they are already returning to preCovid-19 levels.

Venson believes that businesses who operate fleets up and down the country, can make a contribution to addressing emissions levels by educating company car drivers

of the benefits of switching to electric and reviewing the potential adding electric vans to their fleets. Its Marketing Director, Alison Bell, said: “For businesses coping with recent and rapid changes in company car and van use, a focus on improving sustainability and embracing the benefits of EVs has perhaps understandably taken a back seat.

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The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020 - Page 39

Hospice receives £10k cash boost from Birmingham business

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ohn Taylor Hospice has been presented with a £10,000 cheque from property developer and construction business, D R Developments & Detail.

With their generous donation, company directors Raj Lal and Erik Purchase said they wanted to thank hospice teams for the excellent care they provided for their dear friend Nirpal Bansal.

“This donation is in honour of Nirpal and to thank John Taylor Hospice staff for their outstanding care and support,” said Raj. “They really did go the extra mile for Nirpal and his family and friends, and we hope our donation can help more people who are in need of this specialist and compassionate care at the end of their life.

“We also know the effect that the pandemic has had on the hospice’s fundraising efforts and we wanted to do something to help.

“We are very proud to support our local community and know first-hand what a vital role John Taylor Hospice plays in supporting families in Birmingham.”

More than 600 people and their families will receive the expert care they need from John Taylor teams – both at the hospice in Erdington and in their own homes.

That may be 24-hour care at the hospice, support at home, day hospice, counselling and wellbeing and a range of specialist services including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, pharmacy and complementary therapies.

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

l C D R Developments and Detail present cheque to John Taylor Hospice

Hospice Head of Fundraising Katie Mitchell said: “We are overwhelmed by the generosity of D R Developments & Detail and are so grateful to them.

“We are a charity that relies heavily on donations to fund our vital services and we couldn’t continue to be there for patients and their loved ones without such kindness and incredible shows of support.

“This year we have had to cancel or postpone so many fundraising events due to the COVID-19 pandemic and at this very difficult time we need donations more than ever.

“This is a crucial boost for our hospice teams that will enable them to continue providing much-needed care in our community.”

New Indian paper Covid-19 test a possible ‘game changer’ A team of scientists in India has developed an inexpensive paper-based test for coronavirus that could give fast results similar to a pregnancy test.

The test, named after a famous Indian fictional detective, is based on a geneediting technology called Crispr. Scientists estimate that the kit - called Feluda - would return results in under an hour and cost 500 rupees (about $6.75; £5.25). Feluda will be made by a leading Indian conglomerate, Tata, and could be the world's first paper-based Covid-19 test available in the market.

"This is a simple, precise,

reliable, scalable and frugal test," Professor K Vijay Raghavan, principal scientific adviser to the Indian government, said.

Researchers at the Delhibased CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB), where Feluda was developed, as well as private labs, tried out the test

on samples from about 2,000 patients, including ones who had already tested positive for the coronavirus.

They found that the new test had 96% sensitivity and 98% specificity. The accuracy of a test is based on these two proportions. A test that's highly sensitive will detect almost everyone who has the disease; and a test that has high-specificity will correctly rule out almost everyone who doesn't have the disease. The first ensures not too many false negative results; and the second not too many false positives.

India's drug regulator has cleared the test for commercial use.

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Page 40 - The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020

OVERSEAS NEWS

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s Jamaica seeks to keep pace with the changing work landscape caused by the fourth industrial revolution, stakeholders are equipping the outsourcing workforce to acquire advanced digital and technology-based skills.

Individual companies like Hinduja Global Solutions Jamaica (HGS) have taken on the charge, and are upskilling their staff to meet the demands of today's world.

The company's Senior Vice President and Country Head, Anand Biradar, and Learning and Development Senior Manager, Ingrid Marshall, are convinced that on-the-job skills training for employees within HGS has made their workers better prepared to advance their careers.

"I have seen quite a number of people who have started in the industry at the basic level and have gone up to being managers, now looking to become directors, and that's because of the activities they are engaged in," Marshall revealed.

HGS provides business process management (BPM) services including voice contact centre services, digital marketing solutions, and back-office services to a wide variety of clients in different industries including banking, healthcare, insurance, media, telecommunications, retail, technology, consumer electronics, and more.

This means that employees develop business communication and problemsolving skills that can be applied within a wide variety of fields.

"Because the job requires you to be resolution-oriented, you find that employees develop certain skills that they're not taught in university," Marshall

Outsourcing company upskills Their global workforce in Jamaica

l Employees realise their full potential at HGS stated.

"They develop these skills through their experience and interactions with clients, and they are able to see how theories learned in school are applied in the working world. The HGS team also works with diverse

cultures and they become more flexible."

This experience increases their staff's value within the organization, but it also means that they can seek opportunities beyond HGS to continue their career path.

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This is not a scenario that worries HGS country head, Anand Biradar, as the culture of HGS is built around employee experience, client experience, operational performance, and giving back to the community.

Improving the organization's

workforce, even if they move on to other areas of the Jamaican economy, is part of that commitment of giving back to the community, Biradar says.

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Cheylesmore Travel Agency Joins Midcounties Co-Operative Midcounties Cooperative, one of the UK’s largest independent consumer co-operatives, has finalised an agreement with award-winning, independent travel agency, Carrick Travel to transfer seven of its branches to the society’s retail travel division, Cooperative Travel.

The agreement sees the Carrick Travel branch in Cheylesmore, West Midlands and all colleagues employed there; join Co-operative Travel, effective 2 October 2020.

The move takes the society’s portfolio of Co-operative Travel shops across England to 78.

Located on Daventry Road in Cheylesmore, the travel agency remains open to customers and will complement Cooperative Travel’s existing West Midlands branches.

The shop will continue to trade as Carrick Travel but will be part of the Co-operative Travel family.

Rad Sofronijevic, Chief Operating Officer of Cooperative Travel, said: “Despite the challenges of Covid-19, Travel remains core to Midcounties’ long-term strategy.

“The transfer of Carrick Travel gives us the opportunity to grow the Co-operative Travel operations for the benefit of our members, with shops that are located in the heart of their communities and to serve an additional customer base that complements our own.

“We look forward to nurturing and supporting the former Carrick Travel branches and their staff. Their welcome addition will strengthen the position of Midcounties Cooperative’s Travel division for the future”.

Eight-time winner of Travel Weekly’s “Agent Achievement Award for Central England - Small Agency”, Carrick Travel’s shops supported 10,000 customers with their travel arrangements over the last 12 months.

The seven branches that have transferred to Co-operative Travel are in Kenilworth (Warwickshire), Stratford Upon Avon (Warwickshire), Leamington Spa (Warwickshire), Cheylesmore (West Midlands), Pershore (Worcestershire), Grantham (Lincolnshire) and Newark (Nottinghamshire).

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The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020 - Page 41

OVERSEAS NEWS

Costa Rica’s Playa Hermosa named as the next World Surfing Reserve

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osta Rica’s Playa Hermosa has been awarded the next ‘World Surfing Reserve’, becoming the first beach in Central America to hold this prestigious title and the world’s thirteenth.

Costa Rica joins the likes of the Gold Coast in Australia and Malibu in California, positioning itself as a world leader in surfing.

Playa Hermosa, on the central Pacific coast of Costa Rica, is renowned for having some of the most consistent waves in the world and for holding the ISA World Surf Championship in 2009.

Running some 5 miles long, it is one of the country’s most popular surfing beaches, welcoming surf enthusiasts from around the world every year.

Playa Hermosa has been

added to the list of World Surfing Reserves due to its world-class waves, the rich biodiversity of the area, strong community support and a clear conservation vision.

World Surfing Reserves (WSR) is a programme created by Save The Waves, an international non-profit organisation dedicated to protecting surf ecosystems across the world.

Chef Launches African Cooking Classes Online Motherland Cooking Xperience, the ultimate African food immersion cooking resource, has announced its launch as “the online cultural connection” for food and fun.

Motherland Cooking Xperience is a new and unique interactive African cooking experience offering cooking demonstrations, private date night cooking evenings, and hands-on cultural competency training.

Owner and Chef Mirabel Umenei, a mother of three, is also the founder of Motherland Cultural Connections. “I wear multiple hats,” she explained. “I created Motherland Cooking Experience because I love people, African culture, music, and food. Now I’ve made it possible to share my passions and joy with the world.”

Tasmanian Devils Reintroduced Into The Australian Wild Tasmanian Devils have been reintroduced into the wild in mainland Australia for the first time in 3,000 years.

Conservation groups released 26 of the mammals into a large sanctuary in Barrington Tops, north of Sydney. It's thought that packs of dingoes helped eradicate them on the mainland.

There are still some on the island state of Tasmania but their numbers have dwindled over the past two decades.

The Tasmanian Devil, classified as endangered, gets its name from its high-pitch squeal and is renowned for fighting over access to animal carcases, which it grinds with the bone-crushing force of its jaws. Animal experts say they pose no threat to humans or agriculture.

Conservation group Aussie

Ark worked with other animal groups to release the Tasmanian devils into the 1,000-acre fenced sanctuary.

The animals have been placed in the sanctuary to help keep their chances of survival high.

They have no supplied food, water or shelter.

The first group of 15 were released in March. After the animals showed signs of thriving in their environment, a further 11 were released in September.

Young, healthy Tasmanian Devils were selected in the hope they would be ready for breeding season, set to begin in February.

"They're free. They're out there," Tim Faulkner, president of Aussie Ark, told National Geographic. "We've got some basic means of keeping an eye on them. But essentially, now

it's over to the devils to do what they do."

Another 40 are set to be released into the sanctuary over the next two years.

Over time, Aussie Ark hopes to release some Tasmanian Devils into unfenced areas.

It's estimated that there are fewer than 25,000 in the wild in Tasmania. During the 1990s, there were as many as 150,000 but the animal population was hit by a deadly mouth cancer that drastically cut numbers.

The Tasmanian Devil isn't the first animal to be reintroduced into the wild. In the 1990s, wolves were reintroduced to Yellowstone National Park in the US after they were hunted to eradication. By 1996, 31 wolves had been introduced to the park. A count in 2019 found there are now 61 wolves in eight packs there.

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Page 42 - The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020

HOLIDAY AND TRAVEL

The Nautilus Maldives Launches Extra-Long Stay Offer E

scape to one of the safest and most private island hideaways.

Recognised amongst the top 3 resorts in the world and the best in the Indian Ocean, you can leave the city and say goodbye to the hustle and bustle, the increasing restrictions and potential future lockdowns…

In addition to the thorough cleaning and hygiene protocols already in place, The Nautilus has further reinforced its protocols to align with public health guidelines issued by the WHO as well as national and local health authorities.

The entire team at The Nautilus is fully trained in these new protocols.

Are you ready for Mexico's annual Día de Muertos or Day of the Dead celebrations on 1 & 2 November 2020?

Don't let the skulls fool you – Día de Muertos is a muchneeded affirmation of life and a celebration of loved ones near and far, past and present. NIZUC Resort & Spa is encouraging its social media followers and guests who can't be in Mexico in person this year to hold their own Día de Muertos at home.

To help get the party started, NIZUC will be sharing recipes, tutorials, tips and music playlists daily from Monday 26 October onwards so that followers have everything they need to bring one of Mexico's most important cultural holidays into their home.

Tools for the virtual fiesta include a flower crown tutorial incorporating the Flor de Cempasuchil or Mexican marigold, an important symbol associated with the sun and rebirth; 14 colouring templates based on traditional Día de Muertos illustrations; a

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Guests can also view the resort's curated travel guide ahead of arrival for a detailed overview of the measures that have been implemented to ensure a safe, secure and comfortable holiday experience.

To encapsulate and emphasise The Nautilus' exhaustive efforts to be one of the safest In and most private island hideaways, the resort has also created a safety video highlighting the precautions they are taking in order for guests to feel truly relaxed and taken care of.

Guests of The Nautilus have complimentary access to a COVID-19 testing facility just 15 minutes from The Nautilus via luxury speedboat should they present symptoms or require a

negative PCR test certificate prior to departure.

Test collection kits will also be maintained at the resort, with a fully trained resident paramedic on-hand to conduct tests and send samples to the facility for processing.

Imagine a shore beyond time, free from worry, far from expectation and where boundless freedom finds every visitor all in its own good time.

A haven of ultimate comfort and absolute privacy, where the pressures of daily life recede with the ebbing tide. A tantalising slice of freedom in the Maldives' stunning Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, The Nautilus offers life unbound.

Experience Dia de Muertos at Home

Spotify playlist of traditional and modern music; cocktail tutorials; cooking demonstration of a traditional Pan de Muertos, a delicious loaf of sweet bread coated in sugar; and a Calavera Catrina make up tutorial.

The Mexican Día de Muertos

is an extremely social holiday and dressing up as skeletons is part of the fun.

People of all ages have their faces artfully painted to resemble skulls, and, mimicking the Calavera Catrina, they don suits and fancy dresses.

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The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020 - Page 43

HOLIDAY AND TRAVEL

Take a Workation and Melt Those Winter BlueS

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epressed by the prospect of working from home during those dreary dark winter months? Then add guaranteed sunshine to your daily desk life with Aruba's newly-introduced One Happy Workation programme.

The Dutch Caribbean One Happy Island has taken this winter initiative to lure home workers out of their chilly offices and into the warmth of Aruba's natural welcome and weather.

More than 20 of its top resort hotels, as well as hotels with kitchens and villa and apartment providers have signed up to the scheme to offer special rates for long stays, coupled with inclusive breakfasts, all-inclusive food and drink packages as well as discounts and added-value offers for activities and attractions around the island.

UK travellers are allowed to stay in Aruba for up to 30 days, giving them month's working on the island and respite from the worst the meteorological monster can throw at them at home.

Hotels taking part include both Marriott properties on the island, the Hilton Aruba, Ritz-Carlton, Holiday Inn and the Hyatt Regency. All properties in the Workation programme will offer

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Coverage on Pages 10 & 11! free Wi-Fi. Many hotels have business centres, while there are also numerous free designated Wi-Fi spots around the island, giving visitors a vast choice of work stations.

To stay connected on the go, visitors can also buy prepaid SIM cards from local telecommunications companies, SETAR or Digicel and also buy prepaid internet connection for

their stay.

All visitors to Aruba are required to complete an online Embarkation and Disembarkation form and have a Covid-19 test before or on arrival.

Additionally, they must also take out compulsory Aruba Visitors Insurance to cover medical and other costs in the event that they contract coronavirus while on the island.

A Canada-Caribbean travel bubble could be in the works A Halifax travel agent hopes to be able to send Atlantic Canadians down south for a week, with no self-quarantine upon return.

That’s Elayne Pink’s idea.

Pink is the co-owner of Absolute Travel Specialists in Halifax and she wants to move the Atlantic bubble south. More specifically to the Caribbean for seven days at a time.

Her plan is to partner with an airline and a resort to take Atlantic Canadians on direct flights to either Cuba or the Dominican Republic, and confine them to that resort to minimize potential exposure to COVID-19.

“It came from (the fact that) we need to move our industry along a little bit, and how are we going to do it,” Pink said.

“I will be picking places that don’t have many off-resort options. It won’t be hard.

Cuba currently has next to no COVID cases. Mexico is one of my favourite destinations, but there’s too much off-resort activity so I’m not doing Mexico. With the Dominican,

I’m still working on details.”

Pink is looking for either a resort that holds roughly the same number of guests as a plane, or one that has several mini resorts on a large property, each self-contained.

“It depends because I have not finalized my carriers and whatnot, but 250 people probably.

It’s going to have to be picked based on containing my group to a resort,” she said.

“I’m actually having the tour companies pick the resort for

me, that can best handle public health protocol measures.”

Pink would also be requiring employees at the resort she deals with to be comprehensively tested. She said that won’t be a problem. “They want their tourism business as well, and they want to be safe, too.”

Each stay would be for seven days, and Pink hopes to have the first flight take off in February. She says she’ll be able to add connectors to her charters.

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Page 44 - The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020

PROPERTY AND REAL ESTATE

Warning to commercial tenants as rent claims rise Specialist lawyers are warning commercial property tenants to beware as rent arrears claims are rising in the county courts.

Although protections have been afforded to tenants throughout the Covid-19 crisis - and some these protections have been extended until the end of December 2020 – landlords are still being hit hard and so are finding ways to secure arrears.

Graham McIntyre, a partner and property litigation specialist at national law firm Clarke Willmott LLP, said: “Early indications are that commercial rent collection for the September quarter was up slightly on the June quarter’s collection figures demonstrating a positive improvement on the lockdown property landscape.

“Having said this, there are some cases where tenants have simply refused to engage with their landlords, some not having paid a penny of rent since the December 2019 quarter day.

“In those cases, landlords are losing patience and we are seeing an uptick in rent arrears claims in the county courts".

House Proud Brummies Spend £23,919 Getting the Perfect Home

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poll of UK house renovators has revealed that those in the West Midlands spend an average £23,919 on achieving the perfect home.

People living in the region have splashed out, with 20% splurging up to £35,000 to make their houses look their best.

And an overwhelming 91% said having an ideal place to live has become more important than ever during the Covid pandemic.

Residents in the region take an average five years to get their property up to scratch, with 54% of those in the West Midlands thinking they’re on their way to achieving their perfect home and 22% admitting they’ve still got another nine years to go.

The survey of 2,000 homeowners from leading glass

specialist, Pilkington United Kingdom, also found that top of the renovations list in the West Midlands is painting interior rooms – chosen by 55%, followed by installing new windows 41%, and re-tiling the bathroom (41%).

Having lots of natural light was very important for 97% of those polled - especially in the living room (66%) and kitchen (60%), with 49% considering installing double or triple glazed windows an essential.

Another 56% said it was having a garden that really made their home perfect. But despite all of their these amazing efforts, 61% say they’re still planning another move in future.

The study also revealed where those in the West Midlands take their home inspo - with 21% inspired by TV shows and 20%

looking to the décor of their friends’ houses.

Julia Berkin, Brand & Communications Manager at Pilkington United Kingdom, said: “The research shows how important our homes are - and how time and money those in the West Midlands are prepared to spend to achieve perfection, especially during this time of Covid.

“It’s interesting to see how people are adapting their homes, especially given the amount of time we’re spending in them currently while they double up as workspaces.” But 21% said not being able to find decent tradesmen was one of the barriers to creating the perfect home, while 34% blamed lack of cash.

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The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020 - Page 45

PROPERTY AND REAL ESTATE

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The Commonwealth cost of buying a high-end home around the world

he latest research by the world's leading high-net-worth mortgage broker, Enness Global, has revealed the cost of buying at the topend of the market across each Commonwealth nation and how it differs both globally and with or without the Queen as head of state.

Enness analysed available house price data across 54 Commonwealth nations and found that on average, a highend home will set you back £1.587m.

Commonwealth nations located in Asia commanded the highest high-end price tag with an average of £2.358m, followed

by Europe (£2.255m) and the Pacific nations (£2.058m).

16 remaining realms within the Commonwealth still recognise the Queen as their head of state, although this could soon be 15 with Barbados stating its intent to become a republic next year.

However, the nation may want to think twice from a property point of view. The average highend house price in nations with the Queen still at the helm is currently £2.086m; 49% higher than those without (£1.402m).

That said, Singapore ranks top of the Commonwealth house price table despite the Queen not

heading the state. The average cost of a high-end home is currently £11,657,759, by far the highest of all Commonwealth nations.

The Queen remains head of state for the following five most prestigious Commonwealth property markets though.

Australia (£3.348m) is home to the next highest house price for a prime Commonwealth property, followed by the UK (£3.208m), New Zealand (£2.896m), Canada (£2.630m) and Antigua and Barbuda (£2.318m).

South Africa, Malta, Guyana and the Maldives also rank within the top 10 for the highest property values for a prime property.

Group CEO of Enness Global Mortgages, Islay Robinson, commented: “Regardless of your views on the British monarchy, there’s no denying that the Commonwealth as a whole brings huge benefit to its member nations in terms of free trade and economic development, amongst other things.

As a result, these nations remain very attractive to other Commonwealth buyers looking to invest outside of their native county, and this is reflected in the robust price of bricks and mortar across these member states

Man City Could Have Bought 864 Homes In Premier League Transfer Property Market

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he latest research from estate agent comparison site, GetAgent.co.uk, has revealed that Man City tops the table where the amount spent in the transfer market is concerned when related to the average cost of buying in the city.

GetAgent.co.uk took the total spend from each team in the Premier League and looked at how many homes it could purchase in their respective towns based on the current average house price.

On average, Premier League teams have spent just over £62m in the transfer window. With the average house price in Premier League areas currently £299,318, that’s enough to have purchased 207 homes.

At £226.1m, Chelsea is the team to have flashed the most cash accounting for 18.2% of total spend across the league. However, with the current average house price in Hammersmith and Fulham sitting at £702,961, the club’s spend is enough to purchase 322 homes in the borough. Placing them seventh in the transfer property purchase rankings.

Manchester City tops the table.

The club has spent £147m in this transfer window, the secondhighest in the league with 11.8% of total spend. With a far more affordable average house price of £170,192 in Manchester, the club could have afforded a whopping 864 properties with the money spent on new signings.

Liverpool takes the second spot, with their transfer expenditure of £81.7m enough to have purchased 608 homes in the city at the current average price of £134,411.

Wolves (528), Everton (484), Aston Villa (451) and Leeds (450) also spent enough to have bought a considerable number of properties in their local cities.

Despite being home to the lowest average house price of the lot at £91,505, Burnley also spent the least in the current transfer window (£990k). As a result, they sit bottom of the table with their transfer expenditure enough to have purchased just 11 properties in the local area.

Brighton and Hove (12) and Fulham (33) were also home to some of the lowest Premier League property transfer spends.

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Page 46 - The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020

SPORT - WITH STEVE WILLIAMS

Jepchirchir breaks her own women's half-marathon world record

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enya's Peres Jepchirchir broken her own world record for a women-only half marathon after the 27-year-old ran one hour five minutes 16 seconds at the World Half Marathon Championships in Gdynia, Poland.

Germany's Melat Yisak

Kejeta was second in 1:05:18 with Ethiopia's Yalemzerf Yehualaw in third with 1:05:19.

In the men's race, Uganda's Jacob Kiplimo claimed victory in a championship record time of 58:49.

In the women's race, the top three all ran under Jepchirchir's previous

would record of 1:05:34.

The leading group went through 10km in 30:47, while the chances of Ethiopia's Ababel Yeshaneh and Kenya's Joyciline Jepkosgei suffered when they fell on the third lap as they went on to finish fifth and sixth respectively.

Uganda’s 19-yearold Jacob Kiplimo won

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the men’s race with a championship record time of 58 minutes and 49 seconds to upset Kenya’s Kibiwott Kandie who took silver. Ethiopia’s Amedework Walelegn finished third.

Kandie was the fastest man over the distance this year having run 58:38 in Prague last month.

England's South Africa tour gets go ahead England's Twenty20 tour of South Africa will go ahead after it was given the green light by the host’s government.

England will play three T20s, plus three one-day internationals, from November 27, with all games to be played behind closed doors.

The team will travel to South Africa on November 16, with games to be played at Cape Town's Newlands and in nearby Paarl.

It will be South Africa's first cricket since the sport's coronavirus shutdown and England's first matches overseas.

Their government regards the UK as 'high risk' for coronavirus which had put the tour in doubt.

The tourists (players and management) have been granted exemptions to travel and will be based in Cape Town whilst training at Western Province Cricket Club, and playing three intra-squad matches before the first T20.

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The Phoenix Newspaper - November 2020 - Page 47

SPORT - WITH STEVE WILLIAMS

DCMS assure support for BBL as new season starts

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he British Basketball League (BBL) confirmed they would be getting their 2020-21 season underway following assurances from the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) that appropriate support will be made available to those spectator sports affected by the government's announcement that fans would not be allowed back into sports venues from last month.

BBL and DCMS have been in urgent dialogue since the

announcement by the Prime Minister Boris Johnson that the planned return of fans to sports venues would not be happening.

The BBL season was due to start on October 2 with the announcement making a significant impact on the financial viability of the clubs who rely on ticket income throughout the season.

Full details of the support expected from the government was set to be confirmed but the assurance has meant that plans for the 2020-21 could not resume, with games scheduled to

Phoenix retain Ali and Devine Birmingham Phoenix has announced that Moeen Ali and Sophie Devine will be retained as captains for the first season of The Hundred.

The duo were originally confirmed as captains in February this year with both stating their delight at being asked to lead Birmingham Phoenix in the inaugural edition of the competition.

However, originally scheduled to begin on July 17 and end on 15 August, The Hundred - involving eight teams in men's and women's competitions running alongside each other - was postponed until 2021 due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The pair have plenty of experience of playing at Edgbaston and in the Midlands. World Cup-winning Moeen grew up just a short distance from the stadium and remains a much-loved member of the local community, whilst New Zealand International Devine played county cricket with Warwickshire.

Moeen said: “Birmingham is my city and captaining my home team in The Hundred is right up there in terms of my career.”

start on October 30.

BBL chair, Sir Rodney Walker, said: “We extend our thanks to Oliver Dowden, Nigel Huddleston, and DCMS for their swift response in the wake of the decision to not allow fans back into sports venues.

“This support comes in recognition of the immense work our clubs have done in preparation for the 2020-21 season, not only for competition but also in terms of the extensive work they do in their communities.”

Body Launched To Challenge Racism In Football A new body has been launched by Black coaches, along with former and current players, to tackle racism in football.

Football's Black Coalition (FBC) aims to get governing bodies to do more to challenge racism while tackling issues of under representation in the game.

It is understood that the group was partly inspired by the MLS Black Players For Change group (BPCMLS) which was founded in June, in the wake of George Floyd's death in the USA in May. Floyd, an unarmed Black man, died in Minneapolis after a white police officer knelt on his neck for over eight minutes. Spokesperson for BPCMLS, USA international

Justin Morrow, said he hoped that Black players in England would create their own group.

He said: "I think it's something, as they know themselves, that's very needed.”

It is understood that FBC and BPCMLS have been in contact via conference calls.

The group's formation comes just after Queens Park Rangers director of football Les Ferdinand said the impact of taking a knee "has been diluted".

Players and staff have been taking a knee before games in the Premier League and English Football League since the 2019-20 season restarted in June, in order to show support for racial equality.

QPR did not carry out the

gesture in support of the Black Lives Matter movement before their Championship match against Coventry City on 18 September.

"Taking the knee will not bring about change in the game - actions will," Ferdinand said.

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Jerpchirchir Breaks Her Own Record- Page 47

Commonwealth adopts C statement on promoting human rights via sport

ommonwealth member countries have unanimously adopted a statement to promote human rights and tackle discrimination at all levels of sport - from community games to elite sporting events.

The consensus statement sets out 13 commitments and serves as a guide to protect and promote the human rights of every individual involved in the sport sector.

Each of the Commonwealth family’s 54 member countries has committed to combating racism within the sport sector, promoting women’s equality and empowering people with disabilities to participate on an equal basis.

Through the statement, member countries have agreed to implement a zerotolerance policy towards violence, harassment, abuse and discrimination in sport, while setting up multi-sectoral platforms to respond to human rights violations.

The statement places emphasis on introducing human rights objectives in the life cycle of major sporting events to spur a lasting positive legacy from bidding, planning and procurement to competition delivery.

While sport has always been a powerful proponent of human rights, evidence suggests some negative influences.

Amnesty International notes when countries host major sporting events, human rights abuses, such as repression of free expression, forced evictions or labour abuse, often increase.

Commonwealth SecretaryGeneral Patricia Scotland said: “We can tend to see sport as a panacea for all ills but it is also an honest reflection of

DCMS assure support for BBL - Page 47 our societies, with both the perfections and imperfections.

“Commonwealth sports ministers have made clear their commitment to work together to protect and promote human rights in and through sport, and so that this global industry upholds the individual dignity and the human rights of all, and protects against abuse.

“This Commonwealth statement, leveraging the power of our 54 member countries, sets standards for purposefully accelerating national and international efforts to foster the human dignity of everyone, especially vulnerable people, while unlocking the economic and social value of sport.

“This task is more urgent now than ever before as the pandemic not only puts human rights of millions of vulnerable people at greater risk but directly affects many of those who are least wellplaced to adapt to rapidly changing human, social and economic circumstances.”

Recognising corruption as a threat to sport, ministers agreed that a human rights approach requires upholding transparency, accountability and good governance.

The statement reaffirms the need to further integrate sport in national policies to achieve sustainable development targets, while setting up measures to monitor and evaluate progress.

At the 2018 Commonwealth Sports Ministers Meeting in Australia, member countries asked the Secretariat to develop this consensus statement, which was unanimously adopted after numerous consultations coordinated by the Commonwealth Advisory Body on Sport.

Tao becomes fifth British Grand Tour winner after Giro d’Italia victory After a superb time trial that secured his maiden victory in a Grand Tour, Briton Tao Geoghegan Hart became the fifth British winner after victory in the Giro d’Italia The 25-year-old started as a support rider to Ineos Grenadiers' Geraint Thomas, only for his prerace favourite teammate to crash out in the third stage.

Along with the Tour de France and the Vuelta a España, the Giro is one of cycling's most prestigious events and, in winning it, Geoghegan Hart becomes the fifth British man to win a Grand Tour race and the

second after Chris Froome to win the Giro.

He was part of the British Cycling development program before signing for Axeon Hagens Berman in 2014, an American Continental team of Under-23 riders managed by former professional cyclist Axel Merckx.

He joined Ineos, then known as Team Sky, in 2017, supporting the likes of Thomas, Chris Froome and Egan Bernal, all former Grand Tour champions.

After the race Hart said: "During my entire career I dreamt of being top 10 or top

five in a race like this, but this is incredible. It was impossible for me to even think about winning the Giro when we started in Sicily."

Level with Team Sunweb's Jai Hindley ahead of the final day's individual time trial - the first time in Grand Tour history that two riders had been tied going into the last stage - he finished 39 seconds ahead of Hindley over the 15.7km course into Milan to capture the pink jersey.

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