The Phoenix Newspaper - October 2015

Lets do it like this - Come on in to John Lewis @ Grand Central! See more on Page 3

OCTOBER 2015

Connecting Communities - Inspiring a New Generation

Sir Cliff hits Birmingham - Pushkar entertains Musical Royalty

Grand Central Opens Its Doors For Business

G

by Steve Williams

rand Central Birmingham opened its doors to welcome thousands of customers and diners into what is the UKs newest premium shopping and dining destination.

An iconic flagship for Birmingham City Council, it has already attracted some of the biggest names in retail and eateries making it the biggest, brightest, most varied and safest place to shop throughout the country.

Led by the much-anticipated John Lewis superstore, one of the biggest in the UK, the range of businesses already attracting hoards of shoppers is spellbinding in the least.

With other well renowned names like Jo Malone, Tiger, Hobbs and Joules coming to the city for the first time, all under one roof, the very top-end of retail names have come to make their mark, making your shopping experience one to remember, for a long time.

Continued on Page 3

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NEWS

The Phoenix – October 2015

If you want to showcase your business, here’s how

t !

Ou ck hoes e h C se S Tho

Marco PierreWhite Enjoying Marco Day with the man himself

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he Phoenix Newspaper was invited by our good friends at Ed James PR to dine at the wonderful Marco Pierre White Steakhouse in the Cube, Birmingham on ‘Marco Day’ 9th September.

Through a feast of mouthwatering delicacies, the guests sampled some of the dishes that make the MPW Steakhouse experience so memorable.

Marco, who appeared relaxed and having a great time, took the time to meet with guests, posing for photographs and signing copies of his 25th Anniversary edition of White Heat.

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a Difference with the Albion Foundation

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he Albion Foundation is pleased to announce that they have teamed up with African Adventures to once again offer supporters an opportunity of a lifetime, consisting of 10 days working with a variety of different community projects in developing areas of south-western Kenya.

In July 2016, they are giving people the opportunity to be the charity’s third group trip to sub-Saharan Africa to help give something

Marcia McLaughlin - Managing Editor Daniel Riley - Head of Production Steve Williams - Sports Editor Owen McFarlane - Business Development Mark Dwayne - Street Cred Magazine Editor Roland Joseph Tetteh - Azuza Street Editor Camara Fearon - Columnist LJ - Community Outreach Executive White Dee - Columnist

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back to the international community, whilst enjoying a truly remarkable experience.

“Over the last two years, we managed to take over 25 supporters and Albion Foundation staff members, but this year, we want more!

The trip is looking to raise money for The Albion Foundation, which will provide the registered charity (number 1081948) with substantial funds that will enable the Foundation

to continue supporting local people in the local area.

There are a number of roles available including football coaching, building work, teaching in schools and community work with children.

These roles will require dynamic, enthusiastic individuals to help them

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Charity Information

achieve their goal to improve the lives of people less fortunate than us.

You do not need to possess specific qualifications for your desired role – you will be provided with all necessary teaching/sports coaching resources prior to the departure date.

020 7012 6400 www.savethechildren.org.uk 020 7840 7840 www.macmillan.org.uk

020 7793 4594. www.wateraid.org

020 7242 0200 www.cancerresearchuk.org 0800 1111 www.childline.org.uk

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The views and promises of advertisers in The Phoenix Newspaper do not necessarily reflect the views of or endorsement by The Phoenix Newspaper.

0121 212 9209 www.oscarbirmingham.org.uk

020 7239 3000 www.gosh.org

020 8240 4480 http://www.aclt.org

0121 248 4850 www.acorns.org.uk

The Phoenix – October 2015

Continued from Front Page

At its opening, Sir Albert Bore, Leader of Birmingham City Council, described Grand Central as: “A compliment to what we already have.

With the outstanding rail system providing the best connections to this, the hub of the city, with the best shopping experience at hand, Birmingham will fast become the favourite shopping destination for everyone and the best place for people to meet.”

At 500,000 square foot, it intends to house over 60 retail and restaurant outlets, with the afore mentioned four floors of John Lewis, the 259,000 sq. ft. space comes complete with a spa, its very own restaurant and enough stock to fill the Genting Arena twice over.

Grand Central centre manager, Jonathan Cheetham, said: “It's a proud day for Birmingham which demonstrates our continued retail power to bring these high quality shops and restaurants to the Birm-

ingham consumer, marking another chapter in the on-going renaissance of our great city.

We are the biggest city outside London and with us being the most diverse and multi-cultural city that there is, I’m very proud.”

Standing agog, admiring the vast, open atrium,19-year-old Danish woman, Dana Sander, “It feels like the outside in. It’s all about a sense of place.”

The Grand Central project is a

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SPOTLIGHT

combination of some major stakeholder partners from across the city, including Birmingham City Council Network Rail, Mace, DTZ, and John Lewis Partnership.

Have you got something to say? Send in your stories to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

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NEWS

Need To Know Cosmetics retailer fined for nine offences

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Birmingham store was ordered to pay a total of £6,171 after pleading guilty to nine offences under the Cosmetic Products Enforcement Regulations 2013 at Birmingham Magistrates Court.

Maaz Supermarket Ltd, based at 229-233 Witton Road, Aston, was fined £2,450 and ordered to pay costs of £3,686.55p and a £35 victim surcharge.

Birmingham City Council brought the case against the company after Trading Standards officers seized more than 300 items, including cosmetic products which were not labelled properly or contained banned ingredients, during an inspection on 12 June 2014.

Councillor Barbara Dring, Chair of the city’s Licensing and Public Protection Committee, said: “Consumers rely on cosmetic products such as hair products and skin creams being safe to use, and as such expect the labelling of ingredients to be accurate and clearly visible.

“The fact that some of these products did not list their ingredients correctly means many shoppers buying them were potentially put at risk.

“Regardless of how good a consumer wants to look they should always check the ingredients of any cosmetics, hair or skin product – otherwise they could end up with rashes, scarring or something worse – such as brain damage or reproductive problems – as an unwanted accessory.”

Sainsbury’s offers £1mil to tackle food waste

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he popular BBC One antiques programme Flog It is set to visit Wolverhampton Art Gallery on Wednesday 14 October 2015.

Flog It – presented by Paul Martin – is now on its 15th series and regularly achieves an audience of over two million viewers in its weekday afternoon slot.

Wolverhampton Art Gallery will be hosting the Flog It Valuation Day, and members of the public are invited to bring along up to three antiques and collectables they might be interested in selling.

Once valued, the owner and a team of experts decide whether an object should go forward for auction. If the item is chosen it is included in a sale a few weeks later – and hopefully when the auctioneers hammer falls its owners make a tidy sum.

Everyone who goes along to the Valuation Day at Wolverhampton Art Gallery will receive a free valuation – even if their antiques are not chosen to go forward for auction.

Flog It will be at Wolverhampton Art Gallery, Lichfield Street, on Wednesday 14 October 2015 between 9.30am and 4pm.

The Phoenix – October 2015

Flog It comes to city’s art gallery Birmingham MEP: Tighten And Enforce Pet Importation Rules

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irmingham and West Midlands MEP Daniel Dalton is calling for better enforcement of rules regulating the importation of puppies into the UK. The West Midlands-based Dogs Trust has presented evidence to Mr Dalton about diseases being brought into the UK from countries like Lithuania and Romania and the worrying ease in which commercial transporters can bring puppies into Great Britain under a scheme designed for pet owners.

The Trust says thousands of these puppies brought in this way do not fulfill current UK health rules.

Mr Dalton said, "Families in Birmingham and the West Midlands run the risk of not knowing

enough about their pet's health and often ended up paying substantial vets bills or handing them to a rehoming charity like Dog's Trust."

The Dogs Trust's Veterinary Director, Paula Boyden, who met with Daniel in Brussels said, “The implications of the puppy smuggling trade are huge; for consumers who are being duped and the puppies that suffer horribly. There are rules that need improving and rules that are being ignored and families and their pets are suffering as a result.

There is clear abuse of the system and the rules need to be reviewed,” concluded Daniel. “I will be working with the Trust to look at what can be done and taking the issue to the Commission.”

S

ainsbury’s is calling for residents and community groups across the UK to nominate their town to receive £1 million investment and become a test bed of innovation for cutting down food waste.

The Sainsbury’s ‘Waste Less, Save More’ town challenge is being launched in response to the escalating issue of household waste, which results in the average family throwing away £700 of uneaten food a year.

From the start of 2016, Sainsbury’s will partner with the selected town, investing £1 million to trial some of the best ideas from around the globe to uncover the most effective ways to reduce food waste and save people money.

The final ideas will be chosen specifically for the winning town.

Additionally, Sainsbury’s will work closely with the local authority and key community groups within the successful town to crowd-source new suggestions on how food waste could be reduced.

This year-long trial is phase one of a five year commitment and £10

million investment from Sainsbury’s to help reduce waste across the country.

Sainsbury’s CEO, Mike Coupe, said: “We know that waste – and particularly food waste – is a big challenge for households across the UK and it’s something our customers really care about.

Investing significantly in this area clearly demonstrates the scale of our ambition over the next five years and shows just how committed we are to helping our customers make a real difference in this area. “ The closing date for applications is 2359hrs on Friday 30 October 2015 and the winner will be notified by 1 December 2015.

Individuals or community groups that would like to nominate their town to work with Sainsbury’s and benefit from £1 million investment as part of its ‘Waste Less, Save More’ project can find out more at www.j-sainsbury.co.uk/wasteless. The winning town will be announced on 1 December 2015.

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The Phoenix – October 2015

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NEWS

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The Phoenix – October 2015

Birmingham Commonwealth Association Celebrate Royal Record

t a celebratory dinner to mark Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II becoming the UK and Commonwealth’s longest reigning monarch, speakers stood up in droves to exude their respective allegiance to the throne and what it meant to them to be servant to her.

Held by the Birmingham Commonwealth Association at Aston University, and led by chair Keith Stokes-Smith, guests including Paul Sabapathy CBE, then Her Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant for the West Midlands, Birmingham Lord Mayor Raymond Hassall and Master of Ceremonies, Adrian de Redman FSAScot., HonFHS., Assistant Care Manager at EMI at Birmingham City Council all spoke volumes for what The Queen has done for the country and commonwealth and the economic benefit her very presence has made over 62 years.

Talking about his appointment and meetings with The Queen,

Sabapathy recalled: “I met Her Majesty on a number of occasions and each time she always showed great duty to her subjects.

I am a Tamil and as such, was honored to be the first Asian to hold the post of Her Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant for the West Midlands.” Controversially, he added: “For a Pakistani to get that appointment was always going to be hard word.”

Cllr. Hassall said: “Here in Birmingham we live in the most integrated society, probably in the world.”

“We should show our gratitude - as one of the richest economies for what all the various communities have done for us by allowing refugees to come and settle here.

A letter from Buckingham Palace sending the Queens best wishes to all and wishing guests a most memorable and enjoyable evening was read out during the evening, while guests were invited to sign a message of well being and congratulations on a card measuring 5

foot tall by 6 foot wide when open which was couriered to Buckingham Palace the following morning as pre-arranged with the Palace.

“The monarch has done an excellent job over the decades as head of the commonwealth and is well respected not just by commonwealth nations but by people from other countries outside the commonwealth,” said Mr StokesSmith, “What better excuse, if we needed one, but to celebrate the aforesaid and on the same day as history was made.

Mr. Sabapathy then gave a “Thank You” to Stokes-Smith, the driving force behind the event.

For entertainment, there were performances from Dr. Chithra Ramakrisnan, one of the most sought after Carnatic Vocalists, the Alma Guitar Quartet, a solo repertoire by Alexander Roche, a member of the Minack guitar quartet, plush performances of Bangladeshi Folk Dance and John Hoo & Friends.

BCA Communities Group Update

F

ollowing on from the celebrations, Birmingham Commonwealth Association Communities Focus Group met at the Council House at the end of September to move forward ideas and actions to promote and engage people with the group.

Ideas include a Commonwealth Cricket match or sporting event, a Commonwealth Conference surrounding Common-

wealth Day to promote Business, Education and Community, a musical event showcasing entertainment from across the Commonwealth, and the inclusion of women and youth of the city in these events.

The Association is going to designate a Charitable Cause that the group could aid, through ongoing events and fundraising.

This cause has not yet been decided upon, so if you have any ideas as to a worthy Common-

wealth related charity to support, then please get in touch with us or any other member of the BCA. The full Commonwealth Communities Group will meet at the end of October, so if you are interested in attending on behalf of your community group or organisation, or just to see how you could help facilitate conversation between your community and the group, get in touch!

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The Phoenix – October 2015

Golden Fish expanding its fish and chips legacy

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aving established itself as arguably the best fish and chip shop around, the very essence of The Golden Fish, in Stockland Green, in Birmingham, has been replicated twice over, with the opening of the Zeus Fish & Chip shop on Tyburn Road, in Erdington and Olympus, further afield, on Vicarage Road in Kings Heath, in the south of the city.

Maintaining the original fresh, hearty and fulfilling standards of years of experience, it is testament to a family legacy which doesn’t look like ending any time soon.

Under the driving force of Nicholas Costa, the three outlets are just the start of a journey that will see the city, and beyond, awash with the best-tasting Greek-run fish and chips shops, bar none.

“With the three existing shops each having their own identity, we are continuing to moving forward with future expansions continuing the same great taste started by my uncle, Lou, all those years ago.”

Together with wife, Georgina, Nicholas is determined to uphold the outstanding levels first created by his uncle, which has kept him in good stead since day one: “It’s simply all about sustainability,” he says.

“The secret to our success is

three-fold. Firstly-great service, with a smile, always, freshly caught fish, delivered daily direct from Grimsby, and, above all, outstanding value.

For the two newer outlets, the feedback has been outstanding and the customer-base is growing by the day, which is ‘music’ to the driven businessman’s ear.

“With Georgina being my ever-constant ‘right-hand’ it’s all about creating a legacy for my four children; Kyriakos (14) Stelios (11), Marina (7) and 5-year-old Stefanos.

The eldest is already showing great, practical interest in making his mark in this family business.

In Greek mythology, Zeus was the God of Gods and Mount Olympus was the house of the Gods.

Continuing the fable there are eleven more Gods to go. Now that’s a legacy to leave.”

I

n preparation of the live transmission of Hamlet (2014) from the National Theatre Live production, with the leading role of Hamlet played by the one and only Benedict Cumberbatch, I thought I would revisit my all time favourite material from the English Lit A-Level class.

Studied by many for centuries, Hamlet’s character really is a prime example of a complex hero. Is he insane, or genius?

Many authors must have followed Shakespeare’s path of creating complex characters by confusing their readers in terms of whether their often extreme actions should be classed as insanely brilliant, or purely mad.

How about the original sociopath, Alex from A Clockwork Orange (1962) a dystopian 60s novel which conveys the rebellious (almost revolutionary) society of the decade.

Back to Hamlet, as I am no fan of normality and all things sane, I adore Hamlet’s witty responses and soliloquies which nowadays would mean that a person talk-

ing to themselves is indeed ‘not all there’.

Although this is a play and soliloquies are a majorly repetitive feature in Shakespeare plays, and it’s not real life, nonetheless, it further exaggerates his lack of mentality.

Clever Shakespeare, plays with our minds by placing Ophelia as another contestant in the game

of ‘who is really the insane one here?’ all for your entertainment and down to your vote.

As Ophelia loses her mind after Hamlet un-declares his love for her, confuses her heart and mind entirely, ultimately sending her to a ‘nunnery’ – or a ‘mad house’: Go to, I’ll no more on’t; it hath made me mad. I say, we will

have no more marriages: those that are married already, all but one, shall live; the rest shall keep as they are. To a nunnery, go.

Her insanity is confirmed after she talks utter nonsense followed by handing out flowers and good wishes. Right at that moment, it makes Hamlet sane.

Leaving us the audience, yet again confused because what are we to make of our protagonist Hamlet now?

Well, if he’s mad, then so was Shakespeare.

And if that makes them both mad then so was Einstein. And it’s people like them that the world needs more of because they gave us something to remember, worth talking about and something that cannot be settled without a substantial discussion which will make us better inside. Or at least tickle our brain cells.

After Cumberbatch’s memorable performance in the National Theatre’s production of Frankenstein, I thoroughly look forward to being transported to the time of 1600s Denmark. The trip and thoughts will be shared next month.

NEWS

Reach One, Teach One to shine at PhoenExpo 2015

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onsumed with a passion for ‘giving,’ Hector Shakes is going all-out to recreate the one passion that has been dear to his heart for time immemorial.

The 38-year-od, a director at Reach One Teach One Cic is heading the much anticipated ‘Jamaican Grand Market,’ at The Phoenix Newspaper’s PhoenExpo 2015 and Gala Awards Showcase, on December 5, this year.

A man with a ‘giving’ his driving force is seeing the positivity in young, in particular, and people, in general.

And what he wants to do is show people here, in Britain, the kind of positive, loving and fulfilling upbringing he had, back in Jamaica, with the popular Grand Market, the crown jewel of the Christmas festivities, on the island, and the fulcrum of many people’s lives, there.

Already running the successful community interest company, he is infusing the very passion and commitment he carries out there to what is already talked about as

one of the big attractions to hit Sandwell for some time.

The multi-talented father of ten (8 boys and 2 girls) is always “bursting with ideas” to produce the ‘next big thing,’ and is ready for what is ahead: “I’m going to ‘mash up’ the PhoenExpo where people will be getting a truly sweet taste of Jamaica, with its rich and creative food, music and fashion heritage, all on show.

The Grand Market will also be an opportunity for the young people of Reach One, Teach One to realize business opportunities that will come up on December 5.”

The non-profit organization, working in partnership with parents, provides life skills, mentoring, plus cultural and diversity awareness, through music, fashion and design, catering, IT and the creative arts and gives a voice to the overwhelming talented, often ignored, misguided, or misunderstood.

Based at the Alexandra Business Village, in Handsworth, it provides educational and social enrichment programs for pre-ad-

Literal Enlightenment

by Agata Klosowska

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l Hector, with his children - Emelio, Diego, Adriano, Alexia, Romano, Santiago, Santino, Alexia, Zico and Armando Shakes

olescent and adolescent youth between grades K-12 in urban primary and secondary schools.

Shakes said: “Through a lack of drive, in education, and too often no role model to look to, young people go off the rails and look to ‘an easy way out,’ more often turning to gangs and criminal activities for solace.

Here, they have a safe haven where they can feel comfortable and have the freedom to take from within, the raw talent that is in them all.

The Grand Market, for one, will be a chance to raise muchneeded funds for the project, as it continues to support them. And, for Reach One, Teach One, to really shine.”

In making a mark at The Phoenix Newspaper 5th Anniversary day of celebrations, he is also looking for support from businesses and organizations who can help as he continues to give children and young people a start in life: “We are a C.i.c. and as such want support from the many businesses who can supply us with much needed equipment such as computers and desks as we grow and give the next generation a fair chance.”

“The Grand Market, for one, will be a chance to raise muchneeded funds for the project and for Reach One, Teach One C.I.C. to really shine.”

You can contact the team at: Unit 5, Alexandra Village, Alexandra Road, Handsworth, Birmingham B21 OPD. Telephone number: 0121 523 9107.

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CAMARA’S SPOTLIGHT

DESMOND JADDOO

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or this months Spotlight, I would like to feature Desmond Jaddoo, founder and organiser of Birmingham Empowerment Forum.

The Birmingham Empowerment Forum promotes self help.

Desmond Jaddoo follows, “we want to rid a nanny state”. For example, if there is a problem and the council needs to be contacted, the Birmingham Empowerment Forum encourages you to write your own letters and emails.

Once a letter or email has been drafted, The Forum can then advise and provide the contacts to write to.

The reality is that many people have never written a letter or email, the process of self help can prove and has proven to be very rewarding for people.

“The mission of the Young Peoples Charter and Forum for Birmingham is to connect the young people of Birmingham with the role of Governance.

Give them a stake on the future of the City and an effective voice.

Create ownership of decision that affect the youth of Birmingham by creating a structured consultation and participation process which would lead directly to the Local Council Chamber especially within the proposed Mayor’s Office.”

Working with 16 - 24 year olds, the Birmingham Empowerment Forum encourages young people to develop involvement in various aspects of society and they encourage involvement in Public Service.

Young people of Birmingham have a voice and have the right to be heard. The Birmingham Empowerment Forum aims to engage all colleges and universities and schools within the City in order to develop the following:

Young People Charter

This is an agreement between

Welcome to ‘Camara features’ a new column where I will be spotlighting some of the most amazing charities, organisations and people I have had the privilege of working with. Be a part of my journey and learn and enjoy about being inspired.

l Desmond Jaddoo and Michael Smith by the knife bin outside The Rock New Testament Church of God in Springhill the local authority and the Youth of the City in order to create a structured consultative and participative role within the Governance of the City.

And in January 2016, the launch of the Young People’s Forum.

This forum aims to politically and socially engage young people into discussions surrounding issues that affect their everyday lives.

“We intend form build a structure that will ultimately canvass, Government, The City Council and The Police & Crime Commissioner’s Office in order to have their views aired and have Posit-

ive Action developed with regard to Young People having an effective input into the running of their City as they are the Future Leaders and Citizens.”

Young People Forum

A City Wide structured engagement process with the youth of this city on a geographical basis feeding into a citywide young persons forum with a seat within a Mayoral cabinet. The development of this will be done during the forthcoming weeks in consultation with the Young People of Birmingham.

Desmond Jaddoo wishes to remove the stereotype of the only careers available and only careers being pursued are the singer, dancer or athlete.

The Birmingham Empowerment Forum ultimately tries to provide the resources to facilitate the pathway to progression.

Alisha Johnson, a young person involved with the Birmingham Empowerment Forum, took advantage of volunteering on a creative workshop for young voters and she now works as a broadcast assistant trainee at Radio WM for BBC West Midlands.

Young people of the Birmingham Empowerment Forum were given the opportunity to visit the Lord Mayor of Birm-

ingham and found themselves to be extremely inspired and encouraged.

Before breaking for the school holidays, a group of young people regularly met on a Saturday morning in a local church, hosting debates and discussions with other young people.

In the coming year, Desmond Jaddoo and the Forum hopes for the empowerment to continue and take more young people to visit Parliament where they can be motivated in the hub of politics.

There are many pathways available to those who wish to volunteer with Birmingham Empowerment Forum and there are also a number of ways the Birmingham Empowerment Forum promotes bringing about change in our communities.

A few things to get involved with is to: join the voter registration and engagement campaign, apply to become a school governor, apply to become a school governor, a custody visitor, a magistrate and an independent monitoring board member.

Desmond Jaddoo in his younger years, was mentored by the Late Aldermann Bert Carless a former long standing Local Labour Councillor, someone highly respected in the City.

Desmond knew from an early age, in order to have our say, we need to be involved with community decisions and importantly, to use our vote!

“Desmond Jaddoo is a former Birmingham City Council Hous-

ing Officer, Local Entrepreneur with previous interests in Radio, Music, Independent Record Industry Production and Artist Management, Marketing & Promotions, Mobile Communications and Prestige Transport. He also has an extensive history of working in various communities in Birmingham.”

A great believer in fairness in society irrespective of race, gender, sexuality, religion, wealth or age.

Desmond’s main objective is to do what is right for the people that he intends to represent from the

The Phoenix – October 2015

various diverse communities in Birmingham.

When speaking with Desmond, it became clear what the Birmingham Empowerment Forum stands for and what it aims to do.

They try not to duplicate what other organisations are doing, instead they try to join up the dots, working with partners.

There are many resources to be used and the Birmingham Empowerment Forum is a source for solutions.

Desmond continues to hold inspirational talks. With his own section on Newstyle Radio 98.7FM every Tuesday 12pm until 1pm, Desmond holds his “Connecting Communities Politics Show”.

A highly motivated individual, he continues to promote change in society, working with many individuals including the late Bob Jones, the West Midlands Police & Crime Commissioner.

Bob Jones responded to the West Midlands community’s outcry for knife bins to be launched within the region. Jones sadly passed before seeing the instillation of the Word 4 Weapons knife bins but Desmond Jaddoo along with Michael Smith founder of Word 4 Weapons continued in his legacy.

Michael Smith, who founded Word 4 Weapons in 2007 with the UK’s first weapons exchanged programme, said: “The West Midlands now has 11 knife bins – eight from us and three bins donated by the community. At the start, people said such a scheme wouldn’t work, but now 400 knives have been collected from these bins.”

Desmond Jaddoo persists towards saving, improving and empowering lives. He is currently working towards the Word 4 Weapons Awards October 3rd 2015 in Wolverhampton, this award ceremony a tribute to Bob Jones.

An evening of acknowledgement and celebration of those making a positive difference within their communities within the West Midlands, Desmond Jaddoo continually empowers and connects the dots between organisations.

He is available for public speaking events and campaigning, in addition to Chairing Political meetings, Public Panel Participation and Lobbying.

I look forward to working with Desmond again and watching his legacy grow.

Get in Touch with Camara camara@thephoenixnewspaper.com www.camaraofficial.com www.youtube.com/camaraofficial www.linkedin.com/CamaraFearon

Camara (aka mizzcamara for websearch)

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The Phoenix – October 2015

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The Phoenix – October 2015

COMMUNITY NEWS WITH LJ

LJ’s

ity n u m Com Slot

T

he Reflecting Hope Fundraising Committee held its annual Macmillan Charity Ball now in its fourth year at The Cap Centre Smethwick.

The room was dressed to stunning effect in glitz and glamour and the event was again another rousing success, as tickets sold out well before the event date.

The committee decided this year instead of numbering the tables, the twenty tables would have names that reflect and work being carried out by MacMillan and that individuals could relate to and understand from their different experience; such as Perservarance, Love, Victorious, Comfort and Respect to name a few.

This year’s guest speaker from MacMillan was Anthony Maher a young man who in sharing his story reminded all that cancer is no respecter of age, as he was a well-grounded student at University living that university life when his cancer was diagnosed.

Anthony not only spoke of the effect on his life, but that of his family and his student friends who were the ones who took him to the hospital one evening when he became unwell.

As he spoke to the room, those recovering from cancer and those who had lost friends and family to this illness, could empathise with his story of being told 'you have cancer'.

One thing he shared in common with them, is that there is better support now as more is learnt about this illness and the support he received from his Macmillan nurse is one that he knows he will always appreciate.

As Anthony acknowledge what a great difference charity events like this ball, makes in helping Macmillan to deliver the support that is needed.

He spoke of how the difference the support from Macmillan made to him, and is one that he knows has been a major part of him getting through his cancer.

His positive story filled the room with optimism which flowed across the whole evening.

The evening had array of different entertainers, as guests settled well into

IMMIGRATION

Corner with

Rachel Toussaint

l L-R: Paulette Rowe, Trudy Hendrickson, Audell Goodall, Cassandra (Ivy) Graham. Credit : Carl Media Concepts

Reflecting Hope through Macmillan Cancer Trust an exquisite feast.

Everyone was excited about the evenings raffle prizes, and it was my honour to be involved in this part of the evening.

The prizes were generously bid on, and a the total raised on the night was £2,266.00 The Reflecting Hope Fundraising Committee worked tireless to

host this event, and would like to send a huge 'Thank You' to all who donated the raffle prizes and all who supported the evening.

Contact www.macmillan.org. uk if you would like to speak with them about the support they offer.

l Guest Speaker Anthony Maher

A Great Sense B of Achievement

l Winners On The Night - Birmingham Community Gospel Choir. Credit: Ian Quashie

irmingham Community Gospel choir were crowned BBC Gospel Choir of the Year 2015 on the 6th September 2015 three years after having made it to the final in the Town Hall and coming runners up, pipped to the post by another Birmingham choir.

Maxine Brooks Musical director of this choir for 10 years, leads a very busy life mother, grandmother, a Practice nurse, Pastor and also a Director of Believing and Receiving Through Faith Production (BARTF) now in its 12th year. Where does she find the time? Driven by her love for the Lord, this lady whose talent knows no bounds, appears also to have no fear; clearly echoing the sentiment 'There is no failure In God' as she entered the competition for the second time. This surely was a risk, to enter

the competition again; leaving the support of their home town.

This year's finals were held at the Hackney Empire and broadcasted on Song of Praise. There were 6 choirs in the finals facing the judges who were, Olivier Award winner Sharon D Clarke, vocal coach and TV presenter Carrie Grant, and Gospel singer-song writer Miyiwa Olarewaju.

Each choir had to perform two songs of their choice.

All six choir wowed the judges and the Executive Producer for the BBC Songs of Praise who described the performances as 'top class gospel singing'.

Birmingham Community Gospel Choir displayed arousing array of talent, watched by millions on screen and spurned on by messages of support from their much loved fans across social media; performed 'Now behold the

lamb' by Kirk Franklin & 'Soon and Very Soon' by Andre Crouch to clinch the coveted title. Judge Carrie Grant said "this is a choir I feel so safe with" what a beautiful endorsement.

For all who missed the performance of our BBC Gospel Choir of the Year 2015, do not despair. The choir host their annual charity evening 'Gospel Goes Charity' on the 5th November 2015, at the Town Hall Birmingham at 7.30 pm, The charities they are supporting this year are Multiple Sclerosis, BreakThrough Breast Cancer, & Glaucoma.

Tickets are now available priced at £15-£17.50 and are available at the Town Hall or Symphony Hall box office who currently have a special deal on for purchases if 5 tickets or more. You can also purchase them online.

Am I a Refugee?

T

oday, we will look at the definition of a Refugee and when someone is likely to be granted asylum in the UK and when they are not.

At its core a Refugee is someone who is unwilling or unable to return to their own country due to a well-founded fear of being persecuted for reasons of race, religion, nationality, social group, political opinion (1951 UN Convention).

I come across many people who are seeking asylum in the UK due to domestic violence, gang violence or poverty in their country. Clearly, these are very difficult circumstances to be in, however, with such applications, the Home Office are likely to argue that you could contact the police in your country for assistance as we would in the UK. A successful applicant for asylum may be a political exile; or where due to conflict a country has descended into a state of lawlessness and the government is unable or unwilling to protect its citizens; or where a country is at war and the opposing forces have invaded the country.

An application for asylum is unlikely to succeed where a person comes from a peaceful country even if they are experiencing extreme poverty in that country. Such people are often referred to as economic migrants which does not fall within the definition of a Refugee.

An asylum claim found to be bogus or unfounded may be fasttracked and the applicant swiftly removed from the UK. So you must think carefully about seeking asylum when your circumstances do not fall into the definition of Refugee.

For advice specific to your case, contact Rachel Toussaint for your free telephone consultation on 01214489255.

Rachel Toussaint is a Solicitor who specialises in Immigration & Children Disputes.

She accepts instructions nationally & internationally.

To Advertise - Telephone : 0121 240 7310 or email us : advertising@thephoenixnewspaper.com

The Phoenix – October 2015

Longbridge Community Prepares for New Retirement Village

T

he ExtraCare Charitable Trust laid the foundation stone for its fifth Birmingham retirement village, in Longbridge in 2017, providing 260-home on the site of the former car factory, as part of a much larger regeneration effort in the town.

It will be part of a Longbridge hub where they will be partnering with local neighbours so that Village residents can access their facilities and local people can benefit from what they have to offer.

They are already in talks with Bournville College about starting a cinema club, and they’ve been asked to be involved in a community gardening project at Longbridge station.

The Village will offer a range of communal facilities including a bar and bistro, village hall, IT suite, hair and beauty salon, gym and shop.

Facilities can be accessed by residents, their families and Longbridge residents. Over 50 activities

Page 11

NEWS

will be on offer each week, including IT classes, choir singing, gardening and wheelchair aerobics.

Birmingham City Council’s cabinet member for Neighbourhood Management and Homes, Cllr John Cotton, said: “Our partnership with ExtraCare means that more than 1,500 local older people will benefit from affordable housing and the state-of-the-art facilities will help them to enjoy independence, increased activity and a high quality of life.

This fifth Village at Longbridge builds on the success of the villages that are now up and running in Erdington, Newtown and Edgbaston with a fourth Village due to open in November at Bournville. I look forward to the fifth Village opening in Longbridge in 2017, providing quality housing for older residents right across the city.”

Up to 50 jobs will be delivered when the Village opens, with a further 200 jobs on site during the construction phase.

B.U.A.C.K. strive for a united front

T

he few good men – and woman – of B.U.A.C.K. (Birmingham Ungano African Club-Kingstanding) gathered to thrash out the next development in reaching out to the next generation of Africans in Britain and the wider community throughout the city.

With the forthcoming ‘B.U.A.C.K. African Cultural Awareness Day’ on the horizon, char, Olusegun Dosumu, led the group meeting to highlight the main focus points for the day of celebration, including: Empowering women, health, the development of education, African-influenced fashion and food, plus showcasing the diversity there is on the continent.

It will be an ideal time to learn

more about the ‘richness’ of Africa and African people – as a whole. “It’s about extending our hand to the community,” Olu said. “We have to change people’s mindset about Africa – individually and as a whole.”

With distinguished guests, including Labour MP for Erdington, Jack Dromey, plus leading figures from the UK and abroad, the day’s events, due for Saturday November 21, at the St. John Centre, in Kingstanding, promises to be a day of enlightenment for the uninitiated.

B.U.A.C.K. support people from different African nations living in Kingstanding and within Birmingham. We provide assistance and friendship for its members.

To Advertise - Telephone : 0121 240 7310 or email us : advertising@thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 12

BUSINESS, FINANCE AND POLITICS

Financial Education to prepare future young entrepreneurs

O

ne of ABBA’s favourite tunes, ‘Money, Money, Money’, has become the mantra for recession cycles since the 1980s.

With this situation an apparent norm, some experts are suggesting that children as young as 10 years old, should start learning money management described too, as ‘personal finance education’.

The view is that frequent economic downturns especially in industrialised metropolis and their corresponding impact on emerging democracies tend to blight the aspirations and prospects for young people’s future.

This means that young people require relevant knowledge and tools to manage this occurrence.

It is argued that finance education will assist young citizens to develop appropriate attitudes to invest money wisely.

It will have a positive impact and influence their adult lives; that is, in making intelligent decisions and choices.

Embedding enterprise into education is equally vital as it motivates young minds to succeed and develop a positive attitude to life.

Companies have recognised ‘money management’ and ‘enterprise learning’ the norm rather than the exception in the national curriculum.

The mission of The Prince’s Youth Business International (PYBI) helps ‘under-served young entrepreneurs access support to start and grow their business, help them to create jobs, build community and transform lives’.

Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) reported on the rise of 1824 year olds who’re keen on future start-ups - from 8% (2002-07) and 7% (2007-2012) to 12% (2013).

PYBI observed that finance education is key to young people understanding the complexity of modern-day economics.

Lord Young of Graffham, author of the ‘The Report on the Small Firms 2010-2015’, stated that the education system must inculcate the skills and attitudes in young

people to prepare them for their futures, including the opportunity to ‘be their own boss(es)’.

The Work Foundation (2013) cited a study that estimated youth unemployment costing the government £23 billion due to high welfare and expenditure, coupled with (long-term) lower productivity.

According to the latest Confederation of Business Industry (CBI)/ Pearson Skills survey, 85% of firms value ‘attitudes towards work/character’, 63% ‘aptitudes for work’, 44% ‘basic literacy and numeracy’, 38% ‘qualification obtained’, 30% ‘academic results’, 24% ‘relevant work experience’ and 14% ‘business awareness’.

Another 73% of employers predicted ‘a skills crisis will hit the UK within the next three years’ (CBI: 2014).

Young Enterprise (established 1962) affirmed that financial literacy is seminal to enterprise education; this offers learners ‘the ability to analyse financial information, manage money well and make informed decisions to plan for suc-

A

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

cessful financial futures’.

Additionally, the entrepreneurial ability; that is, ‘the ability to take initiatives, evaluate and calculate risks and do more than is required in pursuit of successful outcomes’.

With the economic uncertainty affecting large sections of the populace, the clamour for supporting more young people into business and the professions, should not be unheeded.

As Lord Young rightly intoned, ‘this spirit should be encouraged’.

l Steve Brown joins ART Board

Natwest Director Of Business Banking Joins ART Board

S

teve Brown, Director of Business Banking for NatWest in Birmingham, has joined the Board of ART Business Loans, maintaining the bank’s track record of supporting ART since its launch in June 1997.

“Not only was NatWest one of

The Phoenix – October 2015

the founding investors in ART, which was a pioneer Community Development Finance Institution when it started, but they have always had a representative on our volunteer Board,” says Steve Walker, Chief Executive of ART Business Loans.

“We are delighted that Steve has agreed to join the Board just as the CDFI sector is reaching a critical stage in its growth and evolution.”

ART Business Loans lends in the West Midlands between £10,000 and £150,000 to businesses unable to access any or all of the finance they need from a bank.

Steve Brown, who heads a 14 strong business banking relationship management team, is looking forward to his new role.

“ART’s sector of the market is new territory for me,” he says. “so getting to grips with the issues and helping ART to continue to grow and meet demand will be an interesting challenge.

RBS/NatWest has been a champion of the community finance sector for over 20 years and was a founding partner of the Community Development Finance Association in 2002, so I am also looking forward to strengthening the links between the bank and ART in Birmingham and to helping shape the future of the sector.”

To Advertise - Telephone : 0121 240 7310 or email us : advertising@thephoenixnewspaper.com

The Phoenix – October 2015

Page 13

YOUTH EXCELLENCE AWARDS

l The Youth Winners with their awards, alongside organiser Talisha Johnson (Far Left)

Youth celebrated in major awards showcase

R

un entirely by young people, for young people, the ‘Celebrating Youth Excellence Awards’ shone a bright light on a generation too often put-upon by today’s media and other outlets.

Hosted by award winning actor and Founder and Director of his own production company, G.R.A.F.T., Rem Conway, the Youth 4 Excellence CIC presentation, the 7th Youth Awards show, held at the Holiday Inn, in Birmingham’s City Centre, was all about shining a light on the extraordinary talent there is in Birmingham and wider afield.

The great and the good, from business, education, sports and entertainment were present, proud in the knowledge that the baton they carried, as they laid foundations in their chosen fields, would be in safe hands as we go onto a next generation.

“I’m a sailor of my own ship,” said Najite Phoenix, in the night’s opening gambit.

“Embrace your inner ‘crazy.’

Gregarious acts are a positive impact and hugely important. It’s important that

success should be quantified.”

Categories including: ‘Youth Awards,’ Organisation of Excellence,’ ‘Education of Excellence’ and ‘Youth of Excellence’ were highlighted during the evening as young people were put on a pedestal and lauded by all present, because they deserved it.

There was also a special ‘Honorary Parent of Excellence’ award received by noted local business man, Clint Dunkley, for his work – away from work – with children and young people.

The shows Executive Producer, Talisha Johnson, said: “We should

validate ourselves and continue doing what God set out.

Young people can inspire the nation.”

Awards went out to: Dante Nehmbard (Academic), Luke Holland (Good Samaritan), Brandon Craggs (Sportsmanship), Amira Saleh (Art), Ravinder Deock (Entrepreneurial), Ramallah Malcolm (The Channel-Lee Smile), Joel Fields and Holly Beaumont (Endurance) and the Uprising Leadership Programme received the Organisation of Excellence Award.

The ‘Youth of Excellence’ award went to Amela Saleh.

l The Youth Of Excellence Award Winner - Amela Saleh

Page 14

BUSINESS, FINANCE AND POLITICS

The Phoenix – October 2015

l Peter Faulkner, Greater Birmingham Chamber

Major Combined Authority boost as region’s Chambers add backing

T l Victor Shaw speaking at the Caribbean4Life Trade Conference.

A PERSONAL MESSAGE FROM With correct immigration status in the UK, there is no limit to what you can do and achieve lawfully for yourself, family and community There is no better time than now to seek professional advice and assistance to deal with your immigration problem.

Immigration Rules are changing on a regular basis, making it harder for cases to succeed or to remain in the UK illegally.

If you do not have an application with the Home Office or an appeal with the Court waiting for a decision, you can expect to be detained or removed with or without notice. It’s the law.

If you truly value and respect your human rights, seek professional help today. It’s the right thing to do!

CALL US NOW FOR A CONFIDENTIAL FREE CONSULTATION Tell a friend or a relative you know who has immigration problem

Telephone: 020 7738 3898 Emergency: 07739 985 447 or email: chris@ccsolicitors.com London: 49 Effra Road, Eurolink Business Centre, London, SW2 1BZ Nottingham: NBV Enterprise Centre, David Lane, Nottingham, NG6 0JU

Caribbean Ready for Business as SME’s Urged to Invest

E

ncouraging businesses in the UK to invest in the often untapped territory that is the Caribbean, the Caribbean4life Trade Conference proved the ideal conference for people over here, to find out what, where and who best to connect to make money in that particular The Caribbean4life Trade Conference, held at the City of Birmingham Library, set out to highlight the £1000,000,000,000 worth of trade opportunities available to small and medium-size businesses and how best to avoid the minefield of red-tape that people often come up against, often through lack of preparation.

With a panel of experts present, interested parties were keen to take tips on what’s hot for investment over there and how to avoid pitfalls as they make their money grow.

Karen Thomas, former Trade and Business facilitator for the Trinidad & Tobago High Commission, overviewed the initiatives available in the Caribbean.

She said: “The Caribbean is yearning out to do business with the rest of the world with tax-free incentives, investments and general trade opportunities.”

Beverly Johnson, CEO of JLB International Limited & ISOCON, after reminiscing about

her path to her business relationships with the Caribbean, said: “I facilitate SME’s to get to the Caribbean market. I encourage you to not miss out on a huge market place that has so much to offer the world.”

Regional Manager for JAMPRO (Jamaica Trade and Investment), Laurence Jones, said: “The Caribbean is a preferred destination for doing business.

We are opening people’s appetite, not just for sun, sea and sand. We are encouraging healthy business relationships with companies and organisations in a big way.”

Maureen Smith, the founder Tropical Connections, the Caribbean property specialist, said: “We need to protect our brand.

It’s all about investment now.

Every island needs affordable homes, so we have to work in the various islands with strong, reliable ground forces to have a base to work from.”

Patrick McCarron of UKTI talked of the support agencies available here. He said: “Registering for up-to-date reports and the high monetary value on Caribbean opportunities is extremely important.”

Caribbean4life is all about connecting businesses with the Caribbean, with Managing Director, Victor Shaw, stating: “As we grow, we glow.”

he three Chambers of Commerce in the West Midlands have thrown their “wholehearted support” behind efforts to create a Combined Authority in the region.

Chief executives of Chambers in the Black Country, Coventry and Warwickshire and Greater Birmingham have combined to back the seven metropolitan authority leaders, who have issued a positive statement of intent to create the West Midlands Combined Authority.

And the move came ahead of a major conference, at the Birmingham Chamber of Commerce, in Birmingham when council leaders and key business figures discussed the issue.

The Chambers letter, signed

by Margaret Corneby (Black Country), Louise Bennett (Coventry and Warwickshire) and Paul Faulkner (Greater Birmingham), said the statement of intent provided “a powerful basis for a successful Combined Authority”.

It added: “We would now like to add formally the weight of the three leading business support organisations in the area, representing the private enterprise that will be vital to the success of Combined Authority.

We do believe that the Chambers should be collectively built into the engagement process going forward. The recent growth in our respective LEP areas was privatesector led and it is important that this continues.

Businesses in our regions see this as a tremendous opportunity to put the Black Country, Coventry, Greater Birmingham and Solihull at the heart of an economic revolution so it is important that strong collaboration between the private and public sectors is maintained and built upon.”

l Lousie Bennett, Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber

To Advertise - Telephone : 0121 240 7310 or email us : advertising@thephoenixnewspaper.com

The Phoenix – October 2015

Page 15

SPECIAL STREET CRED SUPPLEMENT IN THE PHOENIX NEWSPAPER

OCTOBER 2015

www.streetcredmagazine.com

Stevie wonder the man, the legend

Page 16

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

The Phoenix – October 2015

www.streetcredmagazine.com

The Legend Stevie Wonder

TV - Online - MAGAZINE

Editors Note

J

ust 2 months away until the Phoenix Newspaper celebrates 5 years as the number 1 community newspaper. One that tells the truth and gives people a sense of hope in life.

For the first time we are about to witness a multicultural Family Fun Day, business expo and Jamaican style Grand Market followed by an award ceremony that celeb-

/markdwayne

rates achievers young and old in our communities.

Its about time we have newspaper that understands and helps to promote fairness and like I said the truth is that we live in multicultural Britain and our newspaper reflects how we live.

Saturday 5th December is a WHOLE DAY celebration for the people and done by a local newspaper which has touched communities all over

the world.

This again is another celebration for Birmingham, our city has had a lot of attention with Grand Central, the Rugby World cup etc.

We really have landed as a city not the 2nd City but the biggest city outside of London.

To be in Birmingham is trendy and with Grand Central alone over 1000 jobs have been secured.

Check out Street Cred and so much more NOW!

@StreetCredMag

www.streetcredmagazine.com

Y

ou usually have the most celebs at the Oscars, Grammys or Brits, but not for one man.

But this is not just any man.

Stevie Wonder is a remarkable man that has touched the world with his gift.

A man who is blind and yet can see life better than those who have sight.

Stevie is a man that has sight beyond sight and it shines through with his music.

The album ‘Songs in the Key of Life’ is one of the greatest records ever recorded and this was lovely to see.

This year marks 39 years since that amazing album, and in tribute, a re-run of “Songs in the Key of Life – An All-Star Salute.” that was sponsored by the Grammys.

The amazing Stevie Wonder had the most celebrity attended event I have ever seen hosted by the legendary LL Cool J. Also the most dynamic performers even our Ed Sheeran was over there performing with Beyonce.

The audience included Jay Z, Diddy Gladys Knight, Diana Ross, Samuel L Jackson, Pharrell, I mean everybody was there and rightly so.

This man has paved the way for so many artists from the days of Motown.

Although this was an event that took place early this year it just had to be highlighted as it was shown on UK TV again recently.

Stevie deserves the recognition at any time, we love you

Evolution of vaping safe at the Hut

W

ith revelations showing that ‘vaping’ is 95% healthier than tobacco the vast amount of e-cigarette shops are taking full advantage of the figures and popping up at a vast rate in towns and cities throughout Britain.

But, despite their growing popularity, it is vital that consumers are properly informed about what they are taking on.

In Erdington, Birmingham, there is a shop where the proprietor is a fountain of knowledge, always prepared to give you the ‘heads-up’ on the latest and best trends, and the best value for your money.

Alex Green, owner of Vapour Hut, has five years experience in the trade and knows a thing or two when it comes to the new craze that is sweeping the nation: “The NHS figures is validation of the safety of vaping and puts to rest the fears shown by people who were, for too long, ignorant of what was something new to them.

It’s good that the safety of vaping has been officially acknow-

ledged.”

A report also shows that e-cigarettes could be prescribed on the NHS in future to help smokers quit and “give people more peace of mind and allay any overriding doubts,” Green says.

Most e-cigarettes contain a battery, an atomiser and a replaceable cartridge which contains nicotine in a solution of either propylene glycol or glycerine and water, and sometimes flavourings.

Unlike ‘traditional’ cigarettes, it does not contain the many dangerous chemicals that can increase the risk of lung cancer, heart disease and stroke.

At Vapour Hut, there is a fantastically large array of flavoured

liquids, devices available to help you quit.

In Alex Green, you get an endless ‘book’ of knowledge to make your experience exciting and healthy.

To Advertise - Telephone : 0121 240 7310 or email us : advertising@thephoenixnewspaper.com

The Phoenix – October 2015

www.streetcredmagazine.com

‘White Dee’s’ Column

Page 17

ENTERTAINMENT

Email: whitedee@streetcredmagazine.com

The Benefit Street and Big Brother star writes EXCLUSIVELY for The Phoenix Newspaper.

Do you want to smell like Nicki?

N

ikki Minaj’s new fragrance bottle is a little childish, the whole branding has gone to far we think with the whole black barbie.

Do you have to do everything for money? Why are you going into this arena? Poor kids lol!

A

utumn is upon us and its all go with the kids back to school, last minute rush for school uniforms and new shoes and hair cuts that conform with school rules - which equals GRUMPY KIDS, but very happy parents.

This month, I have been doing a lot of work with Big Centre TV, which is a new production company operating out of Walsall, whoopee bringing the media back to the Midlands, where it

mpire is back; and because of the success of the first one everybody wants a piece of season 2.

This has to be the most anticipated show which has the same feeling of who killed Dirty Den in Eastenders sort of thing.

The anticipation is high and there are some major stars who are on this. Try Chris Rock & Neyo.

esponsible for one of our best songs last year in UK rap the Section Boyz are still putting out great music regularly.

Don't like that was the first new offering since last year’s Secti(o)nly mixtape and now we have another track Don’t Panic’. The crew are now minus Reeko, who has recently departed the group to focus on solo music, but Section are still very much an act worth paying attention to. The video for ‘Don’t Panic’ was released on Link Up TV on Sunday as part of the channel’s celebrations of reaching 100 million views. 18/09/2015 section boyz dropped their latest mixtape "don't panic" I would say it is

Methodist Community Center, Gerrard Street, Hockley.

These guys are amazing people and are putting themselves out there to help normal everyday people like US - so if you’re reading this and feel you do need help, check them out - dont be ashamed and please seek some help.

Mental Health needs to be addressed now no longer should it be classed as a stigma.

Other topics I will be covering are, homelessness in the city, Legal Highs, Migrants, Care after Combat, FGM and a couple more, so, if you fancy tuning in - you can find me every Friday 8.30pm Big Center TV Freeview Ch8 Virgin

Media Ch159.

Until next time keeeeeeeeeeeeeeep reading!

-

Love you guys x Dee

EMPIRE

E

R

belongs.

I have decided to do a set of 6 documentaries - mainly focusing on matters that mean a lot to me, and that concentrate on the real people out there and tackling real life issues, that I feel real people dont mind hearing about.

As you all probably know - I suffer with depression - and yes, its a mental health issue. I didnt want to admit it at first, but with being out there in the press and on television, I have now learned that it is nothing to be em-

barassed about.

I decided to focus on this issue for the 1st episode - after doing a lot (and I mean a lot) of research, something struck me - why is it so much harder for men to admit to having problems than women?

I met an amazing guy called Jon, who runs a blog - exboozehound.co.uk Jon was diagnosed with depression at 16yrs old, he hid this by then becoming an alcoholic - and then in turn tried to take his own life.

Jon was one of the lucky ones - more men than women successfully commit suicide - why?

- because they dont feel as at ease with women to talk about their feelings with their mates or nip the doctors and ask for help well this needs to change.

Jon now runs a support group for men, with Mental Health Issues based in the Hope Centre in Halesowen.

I then met Terry and Caron who both run suicide prevention organisations in the community, Forward for Life and Common Unity, who are based in the

This Empire is everything it just brings sexy back, its that time when you used to run home from school to watch The Fresh Prince, Desmonds or The Cosbys.

EMPIRE has really created that buzz that has been missing from TV since the 90's.

Welcome back lets hope that its not over done and just as hot as season 1.

Section Boyz

one of the hottest Mixtapes to drop this year For free download see mad Mixtapes and link up TV Instagram @officialsectionboys Next article Kano and the countdown to Eskimo dance

I'm Jazmyn, originally born and bred in Staffordshire, now living in London.

I am so happy to be a part of Street Cred Magazine, it’s a big opportunity for me!

But my promise to you is that I will give u exclusive interviews with UK artists, dates and opinions

and also and exclusive interview and video drop with and unknown London rapper watch this space! Keep it fresh keep it Street Cred!

on the lastest Mixtapes to drop!

I’m going to help discover unknown talent on the streets of the UK and also bring you the latest back stage gossip at events and behind the scenes music videos!

I look forward to my new adventure here at Street Cred Magazine

Have you got something to say? Send in your stories to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 18

BIG SCREEN

www.streetcredmagazine.com

BIGScreen

L

EGEND tells the story of the identical twin gangsters Reggie and Ronnie Kray (Tom Hardy and Tom Hardy), two of the most notorious criminals in British history, and their organised crime empire in the East End of London during the 1960s.

Focusing on the relationship between Reggie Kray and Frances Shea (Emily Browning), as well as the mental health issues Ronnie Kray faced and the dangerous friction it caused between the brothers during their rise to power.

The Kray Twins are the stuff of legend (hence the title!). Working class Brothers from the East End of London who grew up to become two of the wealthiest, most feared men in Britain.

Their story is reminiscent of a rags-to-riches, Rocky-esque saga, only a lot less inspiring and with a hell of a lot more grotesque violence and murder.

Brian Helgeland, director of 2013's baseball drama 42, tackles the story of the deadly duo in a surprisingly unique way, by taking what is essentially a brutal story and turning it into a comedy.

The Phoenix – October 2015

That’s right, folks! Many of you may be expecting a Goodfellas style gangster epic, but what you get instead is a film that focuses more on the criminals themselves, as opposed to their actual criminal activities, and the result is consistently hysterical.

Of course, there are also some very dramatic moments and the occasional flurry of extreme violence, but the laughs come thick and fast not long after.

This is a refreshing approach for a movie of this genre to take, but it may also be one that leaves many people disappointed. The vast majority of the comedy in this movie derived from interactions between the characters, especially Reggie and Ronnie Kray, who are forever bound to each other by family loyalty despite being completely different people.

Featuring an (almost) all-British cast, LEGEND does a fantastic job of pulling its audience in to the world of 1960’s London with its authentic characters, flawless costume design and meticulous attention to detail, it truly brings that particular period of time back to life.

The cast are all fantastic, espe-

REVIEW

wORDS by antony brown

Legend

cially Australian actress Emily Browning, who plays the painfully beautiful, sickeningly sweet and quietly tortured Frances Shea.

While the character herself is a little underwritten and she is never developed quite as much as she deserves to be, Browning

does her best with what she is given and she does an absolutely fantastic job.

However, let’s not kid ourselves here; this film belongs to one per-

son and one person only – Mr Tom Hardy - A man who pulls off not one, but two absolutely fantastic performances in one film.

What makes this feat even more

astounding is that both of his performances are so wildly different that you often forget it’s the same person.

In a move that could have easily backfired and ruined the entire movie by coming across as a forceful gimmick, casting Tom Hardy in both roles turns out to be LEGEND’s secret weapon.

Ultimately, LEGEND breaks down no barriers and treads no new ground. You will leave the cinema knowing nothing more about the Kray twins than you knew before you went in, but that doesn’t even matter.

The film is so brisk and wildly entertaining that it doesn’t feel the need to be that informative. A conscious decision was made to keep the movie small in scale and focusing on friendship, family, love and loyalty as opposed to delving deep into the unexplored depths of the infamous Kray twins.

Even so, LEGEND is a hell of a lot of fun and has something for everyone...except children. Seriously, do not let your children watch this movie.

If you go in expecting an epic biopic then there is a strong chance you may be disappointed.

However, if you go in expecting a thoroughly entertaining movie that just happens to be based on real events then look no further than LEGEND.

Cineworld to open at NEC l Kris Unthank (General Manager of Cineworld Birmingham NEC), Jon Perry (Cineworld Regional Manager) Shaun Jones (Head of Operations UK) and David King (IMAX VP of Distribution and Film Development).

T

he construction of a new Cinema isn’t always cause for news, but when it is being built at the site of the new Resorts World Birmingham near the NEC, as part of the UK’s first integrated destination leisure complex, it’s something a bit special.

Cineworld have a number of cinemas across the UK, including Birmingham and Solihull, and this new 11 screen offering is continuing with the quality shining through once more, this time including a Starbucks and a Baskin Robbins counter inside the cinema.

Touring the new IMAX screen, and seeing the size of the speakers ready to be fitted, as well as the wall, soundproofed and prepared for the screen to be installed, you realise quite how big an undertaking the whole experience of

IMAX really is.

The massive, immersive screen and booming audio really are a thing to behold, and if you’ve not tried IMAX for yourself, there are a number of great films coming out this year to test it out on.

We were also impressed by the seats in the IMAX screen which were very big, plush and quite VIP. The Cinema is set to open in time for the new James Bond film, Spectre, at the end of October.

Alongside the new boutique Genting Hotel and the other amenities due to be in place at Resorts World Birmingham, there is also the pull from people making a day of a trip to the NEC. Whether they are there for a concert at the Genting Arena, or an exhibition at the NEC itself, Cineworld will be able to capitalise on this captive audience.

With 24 hour bus transport to

Birmingham City Centre, as well as train links from Birmingham International and motorway links a short distance away, it is perfectly situated for a great time out.

Kris Unthank, Cineworld Birmingham NEC General Manager beamed, “We’re really excited about the opening of Cineworld Birmingham NEC. At Cineworld, we want to offer a great experience for all our customers, making their trip as memorable as possible.”

Cineworld’s portfolio in Birmingham will now offer guests 32 screens and the capacity to seat over 2,635 people across Cineworld Birmingham Broad Street, Solihull and Birmingham NEC, ensuring local audiences the best movie going experience possible.

It looks like Birmingham has another amazing attraction for tourists yet again.

Have you got something to say? Send in your stories to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

The Phoenix – October 2015

www.streetcredmagazine.com

E

T

he National Pet Show sponsored by Gocompare.com returns to NEC Birmingham on 7-8 November 2015 and you can be in with a chance of bagging yourself a pair of tickets!

With hundreds of different animals, amazing action displays, expert talks and many more activities, the National Pet Show provides an educational and entertaining weekend for pet lovers across the country.

From the cute and cuddly to the weird and wonderful, you can get up close and personal to your favourite animals and receive essential advice from the experts.

Don’t miss out on the amazing action displays including Rabbit Show Jumping and Duck Herding which are back popular demand, as well as a whole host of exciting new feature areas including Hill’s School for Dogs, TopCats and the Nerf Activity Ring.

See the nation's most skilled and heroic dogs showcase their talents in the entertaining SuperDogs Live competition, which will take place throughout the weekend.

As well as providing a fun-filled day out, the National Pet Show promotes responsible pet ownership and animal welfare and throughout the event experts are on hand providing advice and answering questions to ensure that all visitors have the most up to date information to give their pet, whatever species, a happy and healthy life.

If you are not a lucky winner of the competition below, you can book tickets by visiting www. thenationalpetshow.com or calling 0844 581 4993.

their hands on the freshest games not yet released.

Besides the games, EGX had a number of other sides to it, from competitive gaming tournaments held at a number of stands, to Developer Sessions, giving attendees an insight into the processes that game devs go through during creation of a new, or existing game.

It is a testament to the organisers that everyone at EGX was walking around with a smile on their face, be it from an amazing game they had just managed to get their hands on, seeing an impressive Cosplayer decked out in their home made finery, or having just bought something from one of the merch stands, a great time was had by all.

If you didn’t get a chance to get down to EGX this year, your next chance is EGX Rezzed next spring!

October 03 “Weird Al” Yankovic 06 Wheatus 07 Doug Stanhope 08 James Bay 09 Eliza and the Bear 10 MC Trigga’s Birthday Bash 14 Major Lazer 16 Editors 18 Kid Ink 18 Ben Drummond 19 Forever Came Calling & Boston Manor 21 Ghost Town 24 A Born Disaster 24 Morgan Heritage 25 Ella Henderson 28 Turbowolf 31 Dappy

BIRMINGHAM INSTITUTE

COMPETITION Which of these is the correct new feature area?

a) Jill’s College for Cats b) Hill’s School for Dogs c) Bill’s Runway for Rabbits Just email your answer, with your name, address and contact number to competitions@thephoenixnewspaper.com with the subject “National Pet Show Competition”.

Competition closes at 23.59 on 1st November 2015.

There is no cash alternative.

Page 19

ENTERTAINMENT

Ellie Goulding Barclaycard Arena, Birmingham 21st March 2016

BIRMINGHAM O2 ACADEMY

We have five pairs of tickets to ANY DAY at the National Pet Show at the NEC for 5 lucky readers, All you have to do is answer this simple question:

What’s On

EGX GX, the place to be for anyone even remotely interested in the gaming scene, rocked up to Birmingham’s NEC with a cavalcade of bright lights, great cosplay and stunning games across all genres and platforms.

The most anticipated console and PC games were on show, in some cases weeks or months before their release dates.Add into the mix appearances by gaming celebrities such as the Yogscast, and you have a 4 day extravaganza that was unsurprisingly sold out on numerous days.

As with all games exhibitions, for the hotly anticipated games coming out later this year or early next year, the queues were massive, but for those who waited in line for up to 3 hours or more, the wait was worth it, getting

October 01 Walk Off The Earth + Scott Helman 02 Lethal Bizzle 03 Jack Savoretti + Special Guests 07 Raleigh Ritchie + DJ Chris Loco 07 Barenaked Ladies + Colin Hay 10 Keith Sweat and Blackstreet 13 911 + The Journey 20 14 Spector + Spring King 19 Reel Big Fish 21 Anti-Flag 28 Lady Leshurr 30 90’s Night Halloween Fancy Dress Party

Ellie Goulding has announced details of a UK Arena tour in March 2016. Goulding will perform in 10 cities, hitting Birmingham’s Barclaycard Arena on 21st.

The tour news comes hot-onthe-heels of the announcement that Goulding will release her third studio album ‘Delirium’ on November 6th on Polydor Records. It has been a whirlwind few years for the singer from Herefordshire. Since the release of her debut ‘Lights’ in 2010,

she has sold over 20 million records, had two Number One albums, won two Brit Awards and had Vevo views and streams both in excess of one billion.

The Libertines The SSE Hydro, Glasgow 21st January 2016

The Libertines, who released their highly acclaimed new album Anthems For Doomed Youth on 11th September, have announced their biggest UK tour to date with seven arena shows in January 2016.

This year The Libertines have headlined: the Reading & Leeds Festivals, T In The Park, festivals across Europe in France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Russia, Spain and The Netherlands along with a surprise appearance at the Glastonbury Festival.

SYMPHONY HALL

October 01 CBSO 2015-16 - Sibelius’ Fifth 02 BICS 2015/16 - Strauss’ Salome 04 DMS Anniversary Concert 07 CBSO 2015-16 - Elgar’s First 09 In Conversation with Tom Jones 10 Trevor Noah - Lost in Translation 10 FRANKIE BOYLE Hurt Like You’ve Never Been Loved 16 CBSO 2015-16 Friday Night Classics: Star Wars 24 CBSO 2015-16 - Brahms’ German Requiem 25 Dan & Phil present The Amazing Tour Is Not On Fire

NEC

October 02-03 National Franchise Exhibition 02-04 The National Wedding Show 03-04 Miniatura 07-08 Christian Resources 08-11 Grand Designs Live 13-18 Motorhome & Caravan Show 24-25 DIVE 2015

BARCLAYCARD ARENA

October 04 Legends Live 06 Fall Out Boy 10-12 One Direction 17 Battle Of Brum 21 Disney On Ice presents Worlds of Enchantment

GENTING ARENA

October 7-11 Horse of the Year Show 16 A$AP Rocky & Wiz Khalifa

CIVIC/WULFRUN WOLVERHAMPTON

October 02 Mallory Knox (Wulfrun Hall) 03 Paradise Lost (Wulfrun Hall) 04 Midge Ure (Wulfrun Hall) 08 Starsailor (Wulfrun Hall) 09 Jimmy Carr (Civic Hall) 09 Nina Conti (Wulfrun Hall) 10 Peace (Civic Hall) 16 Alan Carr (Civic Hall) 20 Cradle of Filth (Wulfrun Hall) 21 Fightstar (Wulfrun Hall) 23 Tim Vine (Civic Hall) 28 One Man Breaking Bad (Wulfrun Hall)

SLADE ROOMS, WOLVERHAMPTON

October 01 The Picturebooks 03 Icicle Works 04 Alfie Moore 05 Blofeld & Baxter 07 Biters 10 Ovation Presents Cause to Effect 11 Raintown 16 Fred Zeppelin 17 The Complete Stone Roses 23 The Noise Next Door

TOWN HALL

October 02 Pride of Birmingham Awards 2015 03 Jason Byrne: 20 Years a Clown 04 Belinda Carlisle 07 Henning Wehn 12 Lunchtime Organ Concert Thomas Trotter 12 Ben Fogle - Call of the Wild 20 Chico & the Gypsies 22 The Demon Barbers XL 28 Marcus Miller plus support 30 The Amazing Bubble Man 30 Instrumental: An Evening with James Rhodes 31 Halloween Silent Movie Special: The Phantom of the Opera (1925)

l “Weird Al” Yankovich comes to the O2 Academy on the 3rd

To Advertise - Telephone : 0121 240 7310 or email us : advertising@thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 20

The Phoenix – October 2015

“It’s a Whole Day Celebration” A Commonwealth Celebration of culture, food & music

o p x PhoenE 2015 The Phoenix Anniversary Exhibition

Business Expo Featuring

Family Fun Day

&

Grand Market

A FREE Exhibition with a Community Twist Exhibitors from all sectors • Health & Wellbeing • Travel & Tourism • Community Safety Stalls

festive fun

Entertainment

• Education • Communication

Raffle Prizes on the day

Win a trip to the Caribbean!

Music Food & drink Fashion Show

9.00am to 3.00pm BOOK YOUR STALLS NOW - CALL 0800 009 6909 OR EMAIL ANNIVERSARY@THEPHOENIXNEWSPAPER.COM

The Phoenix – October 2015

Page 21

The Phoenix Newspaper Presents

Official Launch,

5th Anniversary Gala Dinner

and Awards Presentation Ceremony With a star-studded guest list of high profile celebrities and dignitaries

Reception 5.30 pm Dinner 6.00 pm Prompt Carriages til Late

Saturday 5th December Bethel Convention Centre Ticket Price - ÂŁ75 Dress Code : Black Tie You can book your ticket through

http://thephoenixgalaawards.eventbrite.com

For More information or to book your tickets call 0800 009 6909

Page 22

MY10 RADIO AND 10 YEARS OF BASS

N

ot many people know that the Flame Lily flower is the national flower of Zimbabwe.

An arts company set up and currently being run by artists from Zimbabwe Flame Lily Arts pride themselves on the beauty of their culture, music and dance and the symbolism of the flame lily flower.

Originally founded as a duo in 2009, the group has grown in strength and numbers out of a shared passion for entertaining audiences around the world with the culture and traditions of southern Africa. “We do this through dance, song and storytelling; delicately intertwining the traditional with the contemporary.”

Flame Lily Arts looking to Light Up the World

Gospel Central Providing the best for your soul

T

hey have been one of the best kept secrets in music, but now it’s out, Gospel Central is taking the scene by storm after

securing a regular, monthly residency at Birmingham’s Jam House, in the prestigious Jewellry Quarter district.

An outstanding group full of

passion and individual creativity they are the epitome of their home city – young, fresh, diverse and reaching out to all, regardless of denomination, age, sex or race.

The brainchild of Musical Director Colin Peters, Grand Central Gospel started in 2008 as an out-growth of the Development & Missions Network website, an events site for major Christian events and initiatives within the West Midlands; they are seen by many as the leading outfit giving out the very best in urban Christian music.

Noval Smith was recently appointed as the new Musical Director and she’s looking forward to taking the group to even greater heights, saying: “I'm very excited to take on the new role of musical director for Gospel Central. There will be some great projects happening over the next few months, so come down and be a part of our amazing journey.”

They are performing at the Jam House, in St. Paul’s Square, to packed audiences, month in, month out. So, for your fill of the finest, enjoyable, soulful experience, Gospel Central is the ticket.

The Festive Gift Fair returns to the NEC! WIN!

C

hristmas is nearly here again! Stuck for ideas? Don’t worry, help is at hand!

Visit the fantastic FESTIVE GIFT FAIR where you are guaranteed to be inspired - 325 stalls from all over the country overflowing with cracking gift ideas.

More to see, try, touch, taste, buy and enjoy than ever before. Celebrating its 20th anniversary with a daily programme of FREE live musical entertainment.

There won’t be a dull moment – no wonder it is now one of the most popular Christmas shopping events in the UK. From the moment you walk into the Fair, you will be caught up in the excitement of the day, browsing round all the stalls overflowing with clever new gift ideas and Christmas decorations that don’t cost the earth.

CHRISTMAS STARTS AT THE FESTIVE GIFT FAIR from 12 – 15 November 2015 at NEC, Birmingham.

The Phoenix – October 2015

www.streetcredmagazine.com

10 Favourite Moments over 10 Years of BASS

P

unch Records CEO Ammo Talwar chooses his 10 favourite Bass Festival moments over the past 10 years 1. Celebrating 60 years of UK Sound System with Channel One & Mad Professor paying homage to Duke Vin & Jamaican Sounds 2. Professor Green delivering a hip hop workshop in City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra challenging both art forms 3. Working with Instagram with the youth of Birmingham exploring platforms 4. Creating a Radio station

87.7 FM

I

am looking forward to presenting on the new radio station mytenradio which is community focused and really worth checking out. mytenradio will broadcast 24 hours a day on 87.7 FM for 28

supporting over 50 young people to showcase music on an FM licence in Birmingham - MyTenRadio 2015 5. Goldie, Temper and Henry Chalfant all meeting for the first time ever - 40 years of graffiti history in one room 6. Expanding Bass Festival into Manchester, Leicester, Derby and Nottingham for 3 years commissioning new work in new regions 7. Showcasing Fela Kutis sleeve designer and lifelong friend Lemi Ghariokwu for his first full exhibition ever in the UK 8. Producing a hip hop con-

days, across the city and online. mytenradio is created for the young audience and also provides opportunity for fresh and unheard radio DJ’s and presenters. The station launches on 4th October to celebrate the hugely successful Bass Festival.

Every Wednesday you can catch my health show alongside Daniel

ference with Black Thought, Lord Finesse, Bashy and 40 different MC's talking all things Rap 9. Bilal performing to an intimate audience of 100 people - Pure hip hop jazz vibes 10. Creating a Grime Theatre production with Lady Leshurr, Roxxxane and 20 local grime artists connecting both art forms and the touring it - Decypher Collective

Riley from 11-1 in the afternoon. with a mission to meet the musical needs of the city’s youth audience.

This will be discussion, live sessions and special guests, tapping into the best local and national talent, and working alongside Birmingham’s newest and hottest broadcasting stars.

WIN! 10 Years of BASS WIN! COMPETITION We have 10 pairs of tickets to the Festive Gift Fair at the NEC for 10 lucky readers, All you have to do is answer this simple question: What Anniversary is the Festive Gift Fair Celebrating this year? a) 2nd Anniversary b) 20th Anniversary c) 200th Anniversary Just email your answer, with your name, address and contact number to competitions@thephoenixnewspaper.com with the subject “Festive Gift Fair Competition”.

Competition closes at 23.59 on 4th November 2015.

There is no cash alternative.

The Phoenix – October 2015

Page 23

Page 24

FASHION AND BEAUTY

The Phoenix – October 2015

www.streetcredmagazine.com

Ripley’s Believe it or Not!

B

elieve it or not, Ripley Dale-Gulston created this showstopping look in just 30 minutes.

She decided to pull out all the stops by highlighting and contouring areas of the model’s face to accentuate her features.

“I used a mixture of light, medium and dark tones to enhance her bone structure. A primer was applied to her skin to create a flawless look and to give the colours a boost.”

BEFORE Model

Francess Scarlet

PRODUCTS USED

Make-Up Artist

Ripley Dale-Gulston

Products of the Month

BODY SHOP Skin Primer – Matte It DIOR Diorskin Airflash CC Primer KIKO Liquid Felt Pencil Eyeliner BEN NYE Pressed Colour Palette – Blushing Bride & Media Pro HD Foundation – Bamboo 1 URBAN DECAY Naked 2 Eyeshadow Palette EYELURE Brow Palette KRYOLAN Lip Rouge Mini Palette SLEEK Contour Palette

Sheer Joy for J and J’s Natural Shea Butter

J

and J’s Natural Shea Butter has a thick and creamy texture that will absorb into your skin effortlessly.

What makes this product stand out from the crowd is that there are a variety of scents to choose from.

Just to name a few, J and J’s Natural Shea Butter comes in almond, cherry, chocolate and watermelon.

It is also great for hair, stretch marks, eczema, sun burn and much more.

I

must say that I'm extremely impressed with these Aveda products, because my skin usually feels dry after my cleansing routine, but since I've been using them I haven't had this problem.

If you are looking for a luxurious all natural skincare range that doesn't contain any harsh chemicals, then Aveda is definitely for you.

Top 3 Products

AVEDA Deep Cleansing Herbal Clay Masque AVEDA Tourmaline Charged Radiance Fluid AVEDA Tourmaline Charged Exfoliating Cleanser

The Phoenix – October 2015

I

f you emptied out the contents of your make-up bag, how much do you think it would all amount to?

According to Escentual.com, the average contents of a make-up bag totals up to a whopping £172. Shocking isn't it?

Page 25

FASHION AND BEAUTY

www.streetcredmagazine.com

How Much is Your Make-up Bag Really Worth?

Since I am a budget make-up enthusiast, I decided to put this research to the test. In the back of my mind I thought that the contents of my bag would probably tally up to around £100, but to my surprise I racked up a grand total of £204.40.

Let us know how much your make-up bag is worth! Email me at chantelle.gillespie@thephoenixnewspaper.com

T

Sheryl’s Hair Curls

& She Loves It!

S

heryl Richards is a proud wife and a mother of two.

Not only is she a secondary school pastoral assistant, an avid saxophonist and an experienced hairdresser, but she is also a fantastic children’s author.

Sheryl’s heart for celebrating cultural diversity is portrayed through her gift of writing. My Hair Curls is not your typical run of the mill children’s story book, this short tale has been ingeniously written to create a sense of pride in the reader as Angeline, the protagonist, expresses her love for her natural hair.

This is a much needed educational and parental tool for the

African Caribbean community due to the fact that it light-heartedly inspires children as young as the age of 1 to celebrate what God has blessed them with.

“I started writing in 2011, after the birth of my first child,” explains Richards. “I was inspired by thoughts of my own childhood. My Hair Curls encourages children to explore the colour, length, and texture of their hair.”

Well done Sheryl, we hope that this will be the first of many more books to come.

My Hair Curls will be available to purchase from 28th January 2016. For more information please visit www.mychildrensbooks.org.

he Clothes Show in association with ALCATEL ONETOUCH returns to the NEC Birmingham from 4-8 December 2015.

With over 350 leading fashion and beauty brands, non-stop catwalk shows, makeovers, manicures, beauty demonstrations and style advice, 2015 will offer an all-new fashion experience.

Whether you’re looking to update your wardrobe, fuel inspiration for a career in fashion, or meet your favourite celebrities, prepare to immerse yourself in the world’s largest fashion festival.

Visitors can take a stroll down The Clothes Show’s, new Boutique Boulevard, where they will be able to shop in pop up stores from the likes of Sugarhill Boutique, Playful Promises, Mink Pink, Wolf & Whistle, Little Mistress, Girls On Film and House of CB. Style savvy shoppers can mix high-street buys with the most sought-after labels in the Designer Outlet. New to the show, Pringle,

Mawi and Bolongaro Trevor will sit alongside Gushlow and Cole to offer lust-have brands with a discounted designer price tag. Paul’s Boutique, Oasis, South Beach, Love and Glamorous will also add to the line-up with their must-have AW15 collections. Once you’re all shopped out, sit back and relax in The Lambrini Cocktail Bar. Every ticket to the show includes a seat in the ALCATEL ONETOUCH Fashion Theatre showcasing a high-energy spectacle of fashion, music and dance. Head stylist Karl Willett will bring together the very best in high-street and designer brands to the show, while Charli XCX, Rae Morris and Ella Eyre will take to the stage for live performances.

Expect to see some familiar faces this year as broadcaster and writer Rick Edwards, TV favourites Jamie Laing and Radio 1 presenters Alice Levine and Gemma Cairney host the Fashion Theatre stage across the five days.

COMPETITION

We have one pair of tickets to the Saturday at The Clothes Show at the NEC for 1 lucky reader, All you have to do is answer this simple question: Which of these is a new attraction this year?

a) Boutique Boulevard b) Fashion Funhouse c) Shoes Symposium Just email your answer, with your name, address and contact number to competitions@thephoenixnewspaper.com with the subject “Clothes Show Competition”.

Competition closes at 23.59 on 13th November 2015.

There is no cash alternative.

Have you got something to say? Send in your stories to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 26

FASHION AND BEAUTY

www.streetcredmagazine.com

Get Ready With Moureen – How to Look Fabulous at 53

T

his month’s model is living proof that your glory days can start at any age. I still can't believe that she is 53.

Not only is Moureen Brown a Benefit Officer, but she is also a wife, a mother of 3 and grandmother (glam-mother) to 2 grandchildren.

The Phoenix – October 2015

Moureen devotes her spare time to working as a Youth Leader for her local church.

Whenever she is asked about how she manages to look so amazing her for age, she simply smiles and tells everyone that God keeps her looking so youthful.

GET THE OUTFIT

TOP AND SKIRT: MONSOON Sofija Maxi Skirt and Top SHOES: KURT GEIGER Carvela Goalie Studded Evening Sandals

GET THE LOOK

HAIR: Styled by LeShona Gordon

MAKE-UP: L’OREAL Magic Nude Liquid Powder Foundation – 330 Classic Tan MAC Powder Blush – Format MAC Tinted Lipglass - Spite SLEEK Eyebrow Pencil – Brown 26 PRO PALETTE Eyeshadow Palette | RIMMEL Scandal Eyes Rockin’ Curves Mascara – Extreme Black | COLLECTION 2000 Liquid Eyeliner - Black | FASHION FAIR Perfect Finish Concealer (ll)

Mid Season Sale Now On! Special Occasion Wear Massive Reductions New Collections for Wedding Guests have just arrived Fantastic selection of Hats, Hatinators and Fascinators in stock

100 outfits at £199 or less!

You Can Enjoy A Healthy Dinner Date With Emma

A

fter losing 78lbs, Emma Hadley qualified as a nutri-

tionist.

This is one of her favourite healthy dishes. This deli-

cious steak stir fry is packed full of incredible flavours that will tantalise your taste buds. The best thing about this meal is that it is really easy to make.

Ingredients • 2 rump steaks • 1 pack of ready to wok noodles or dry egg noodles • 1 red, green or yellow pepper • 3 or 4 florets of broccoli • 1 or 2 courgettes • 2/3 mushrooms • Bok Choi

• • • • •

Mangetout 1 Carrot Optional 1 chilli Ginger powder or fresh ginger • Garlic • Any herbs and spices of your choice

Marinade

• 1 table spoon of cornflour • 1 table spoon of light soy sauce (you can use dark) • ½ table spoon of sesame oil For more information visit www.lovemeslender.com or www.facebook.com/LoveEmmaHadley

Millarde

FASHIONS

0121 373 4834

www.millardefashions.co.uk

396 Birmingham Road, Wylde Green, Sutton Coldfield, B72 1YJ

Have you got something to say? Send in your stories to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

The Phoenix – October 2015

Page 27

PHOENEXPO 2015 AND NOMINATIONS UPDATE

NOMINATIONS ARE NOW CLOSED The Phoenix Newspaper Awards The Phoenix Newspaper would like to thank everyone who has nominated a person or organisation for an award in The Phoenix Newspaper 5th Anniversary Gala Awards.

Now that all of the nominations are in, it’s time to get voting! Rope in your families, friends, colleagues and business partners to make sure that your favourite has the best chance of winning!

Voting is now open at www.thephoenixnewspaper.com/vote GET VOTING, AND GOOD LUCK! Lifetime Achievement Award Willard Wigan Bob Warman Bing Cecil Morris Mykal Brown Tony Owens Dr Saroj Duggall

Charity of the Year 2015

Acorns Childrens Hospice John Taylor Hospice ACLT NSPCC Birmingham Childrens Hospital Sandwell African Caribbean Mental Health Foundation

Special Achievement Award 2015

Dean Alexander Justice Williams Deb Leary Clint Dunkley a.k.a. Beva HRH Theodora Ibekwe-Oyebade Mykal Brown Teswal White Theo Paphitis Kanya King Sharon Thompson Rose Thompson - BME Cancer Communities

Community Outreach/Volunteer Award 2015 Amrick Singh Ubhi Mykal Brown Mukhtar Dar HRH Theodora Ibekwe-Oyebade Claire Newbold Leo Graham Terence Wallen Audrey Parkes Hayles and Barbara Brook Errol Lawson Frequency man

Best Financial Institution 2015 HSBC Barclays RBS Lloyds TSB Santander

Best Presenter/Radio DJ 2015 DJ Len DJ Countryman Ed James and Rachel New Little Richie Dean Alexander Noreen Khan Marverine Cole John Simmit Wayne Irie Jelani JB Brown Rebecca Hemmings Grandfather Hovis Marcia Spence

Best Place of Worship 2015 GNNSJ St Chad’s Cathedral Birmingham Christian Centre The Rock Church

Best Eatery 2015 Pushkar Turtle Bay Miller & Carter Wildmoor Oak Akamba Golden Fish Big John Mellows Catering

Beauty & Lifestyle Award 2015 MAC Cosmetics Mary Kay Pamela Liburd Vivid Ink - Andrew Gough New Look Estilos Beauty In U

Lifetime Contribution to Music 2015 Access to Music Gurcharan Mall - Dhol Blasters Steel Pulse UB40 Mykal Brown - Wassifa Showcase Love Injection Apache Indian Michael Henry

Business & Enterprise Award 2015 Carl George Tony Sealey Indi Deol Ed James Ammo Talwar Lee Elliot & Juanita Carmichael Steve Walker Dipak Shelat H.S. Tank & Sons Eric Ho Yvonne Kerr Inprintz - Simon Brade Teswal White Joel Blake Simeon Thaw Shushana Davis Fenky Janes Patties Cleo Morris Marcia Spence Peter Waite - K G Miles Opticians Celebrities Barbers

Best Retailer 2015 John Lewis M&S Harvey Nichols Debenhams Selfridges Primark

Outstanding Commitment to Education 2015 South & City College Birmingham Birmingham City University University of Birmingham University of Wolverhampton

Sports Achiever 2015 Annie Zaidi Ellie Simmonds Brendan Batson Steve Hollinsworth Garry Peal WBC Womens Boxing Club K-Star Thai Boxing Amir Khan Rushian Hepburn-Murphy Gabriel Agbonlahor Daniel Sturridge Zion Aserie Waine Turner

Page 28

SPECIAL TRIBUTE - BISHOP MATTHEW HANSON

The Phoenix – October 2015

Bishop Matth The passing o

H

undreds of mourners were at the funeral of Bishop Matthew Hanson as they gathered to celebrate the life service of one of the great leaders.

Friends, family, leading members of the community and dozens of former colleagues poured into the New Testament Church of God, in Birmingham, to say a sad,

final farewell.

Bishop Hanson, of the United Pentecostal Church of God in West Bromwich, in the West Midlands, was widely known and hugely respected, by leaders of different denominations and religions, as an Overseer, mentor, family man and friend and this was reflected with great outpourings of emotion for a man who was seen as a true leader of men.

With noted local figures and dignitaries present in abundance, to pay homage to a man who touched so many lives both here and abroad, no-one was short of words to describe the impact he had made on their own, individual lives.

Tributes came from the likes of Pastor Clint Dunkley, who heralded the influence he had on his life, saying: “Throughout my life

To Advertise - Telephone : 0121 240 7310 or email us : advertising@thephoenixnewspaper.com

The Phoenix – October 2015 Page 29

SPECIAL TRIBUTE - BISHOP MATTHEW HANSON

hew Hanson – of a true great I have also seen Bishop Hanson as a great influence on me. From my childhood, he was always there to impart valuable words of wisdom that would shape the path I took, to this day.”

His Nephew, Pastor Cleveland Perkins, was equally passionate in grief, reminiscing: “Uncle Matthew was a giant amongst giants – a great evangelist and a person I see as a fantastic influence

on me and my 16 years of happy marriage. I owe him so much.”

“He was almost like a prophet,” Bishop Hanson’s brother, Melvin, said. “He was massively influential on all our family’s lives,” said another grief-stricken sibling, Sister Esther Perkins.

“My brother was always all about ‘giving’ – physically, emotionally and spiritually.

A great, humble man and

brother.”

With the likes of Yvonne Mosquito, West Midlands Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner, Councillors Sybil Spence, Paulette Hamilton and Judy Foster also present to highlight Bishop Hanson’s influence on their lives, this truly was a celebration of the life of a man who touched so many.

Bishop Matthew Hanson was 76.

Have you got something to say? Send in your stories to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 30

The Phoenix – October 2015

Spirituality

Part 2

AZUZA STREET

G

REETINGS FROM GHANA TO THE B E L O V E D PEOPLE OF GREAT BRITAIN. My name is Roland Joseph Tetteh. I am your brother in the Lord.

I was born in October 3, 1966 in Ghana. I now work as a logistics manager at William Pitt construction in Accra Ghana.

I love the lord and the lord loves us all, every month I will be bringing to you God’s News from various different perspective.

T

by Roland Joseph Tetteh

world.

his month,we continue to look at the meanings of Spirituality in different cultures around the

HINDU SPIRITUALITY

Hinduism has no traditional ecclesiastical order, no centralized religious authorities, no governing body, no prophet(s) nor any binding holy book; Hindus can choose to be polytheistic, pantheistic, monistic, or atheistic.

Within this diffuse and open structure, spirituality in Hindu philosophy is an individual experience, and referred to as ksaitrajña.

It defines spiritual practice as one’s journey towards moksha, awareness of self, the discovery of higher truths, true nature of reality, and a consciousness that is liberated and content.

Four paths

Hinduism identifies four ways marga or yoga - of spiritual practice. The first way is Jñana yoga, the way of knowledge. The second way is Bhakti yoga, the way of de-

votion.

The third way is Karma yoga, the way of works. The fourth way is Raja yoga, the way of contemplation and meditation.

Jñana marga is a path often assisted by a guru (teacher) in one’s spiritual practice.

Bhakti marga is a path of faith and devotion to deity or deities; the spiritual practice often includes chanting, singing and music - such as in kirtans - in front of idols, or images of one or more deity, or a devotional symbol of the holy.

Karma marga is the path of one’s work, where diligent practical work or vartta becomes in itself a spiritual practice, and work in daily life is perfected as a form of spiritual liberation and not for its material rewards.

Raja marga is the path of cultivating necessary virtues, self-discipline, tapas (meditation), contemplation and self-reflection sometimes with isolation and renunciation of the world, to a pinnacle state called samadhi.

ISLAMIC SPIRITUALITY

The Pillars of Islam (arkan al-Islam; also arkan ad-din, “pillars of religion”) are five basic acts in Islam, considered obligatory for all believers.

The Quran presents them as a framework for worship and a sign of commitment to the faith. They are (1) the shahadah (creed), (2) daily prayers (salat), (3) almsgiving (zakah), (4) fasting during Ramadan and (5) the pilgrimage

to Mecca (hajj) at least once in a lifetime.

The Shia and Sunni sects both agree on the essential details for the performance of these acts.

Sufism

The best known form of Islamic mystic spirituality is the Sufi tradition (famous through Rumi and Hafiz) in which a spiritual master or pir transmits spiritual discipline to students.

Sufism is defined by its adherents as the inner, mystical dimension of Islam. A practitioner of this tradition is generally known as a Sufi.

Sufis believe they are practicing ihsan (perfection of worship) as revealed by Gabriel to Muhammad, Worship and serve Allah as you are seeing Him and while you see Him not yet truly He sees you.

Sufis consider themselves as the original true proponents of this pure original form of Islam.

They are strong adherents to the principal of tolerance, peace and against any form of violence.

The Sufi have suffered severe persecution by their coreligionist brothers the Wahhabi and the Salafist. In 1843 the Senussi Sufi were forced to flee Mecca and Medina and head to the Sudan and Libya.

Classical Sufi scholars have defined Sufism as “a science whose objective is the reparation of the heart and turning it away from all else but God”.

Alternatively, in the words of the

Darqawi Sufi teacher Ahmad ibn Ajiba, “a science through which one can know how to travel into the presence of the Divine, purify one’s inner self from filth, and beautify it with a variety of praiseworthy traits”.

From the above, it is clear that spirituality is a path independent of religion.

It is not a path defined by religious tenets, rituals, moral or ethical mores, but a personal journey of identity, union with the divine self.

Wranglers of gross materialism may trivialize or even refute the essence of cultivating spirituality, but one must be elevated to a higher spiritual plane in order to overcome the illusion created by materialism.

In the past, religion created the false impression that it was the only legitimate path to a higher spiritual plane, but as religious stranglehold on the popular mind waned with time, more pronounced in modern times, more individuals have cultivated their own formula of achieving divine bliss.

This has been the position of students of theistic science. Spirituality is a personal quest to find happiness, to rise above the illusions of material nature, to cultivate a purposeful life.

When the dogma of religion is cleared, spirituality will be on the ascendancy and will become the dominant creed.

l Pope Francis kisses and blesses Michael Keating, 10

US Papal Visit helps citizens and companies

D

uring his first trip to the U.S., Pope Francis’ recent visit to the U.S. threw a massive spotlight on the Fiat 500L compact cars that he was using on his six-day tour.

Francis took a detour to meet with victims of sex abuse, turned down lunch with leaders in Washington to dine with the homeless and visited prisoners in Philadelphia and inner-city students in East Harlem, New York. Francis also addressed a joint meeting of Congress, the first pontiff in history to do so.

Before landing on American soil, Fiat sales were lackluster, in the least, since the brand ex-

panded there. But, the 78-yearold pontiff’s use of the Italian-made vehicle has seen sales for the car sore 50% up since his time there.

Patrick Monninger, dealer principal at Fiat of Manhattan, said: "We’ve been inundated with calls," said Kathy Finn, brand manager for Fiat Chrysler. Customers are calling surprised at how spacious the car is and asking about that particular model."

During his stay, Pope Francis visited Washington, New York and Philadelphia, speaking in support of efforts to reduce poverty, welcome immigrants, and abolish the death penalty.

Former Bishop Of Birmingham’s Ring For New Bishop Of Aston

T l The Revd Anne Hollinghurst, soon to be Bishop of Aston.

he Revd Anne Hollinghurst will become the tenth Bishop of Aston in November. Not only will she be Birmingham Diocese’s first female bishop, she will be presented with her episcopal ring originally worn by a true pioneer and supporter of the ministry and ordination of women.

Hugh Montefiore was Bishop of Birmingham between 1977 and 1987. His three daughters, Teresa, Janet and Catherine, kindly donated the ring back to Birmingham Cathedral.

The cathedral then decided to

have the ring remodelled for Bishop Anne with Bishop of Birmingham David Urquhart’s support.

This year, Birmingham Cathedral celebrates its tercentenary and being one of the oldest buildings in the city still used for its original purpose; Completed in 1715 to be the parish church of St Philip.

The Very Reverend Catherine Ogle, Dean of Birmingham said: “Anne inherits the episcopal ring of a man both pioneering and passionate in his support of the ordained ministry of women. She inherits Hugh’s legacy, as the ring has been remodelled to fit her.”

Samuel Pitt Ltd, based in the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, were approached to work on the ring and to also design and produce Bishop Anne’s pectoral cross. The firm is currently celebrating 150 of manufacturing jewellery in the city.

Director, Ed Pitt, added: “It has been an honour to be able to produce Bishop Anne’s episcopal ring and pectoral cross.

With her suggestion, the pectoral cross takes its inspiration from St Hilda, the founding abbess of the monastery in Whitby. It is a contemporary take on a Celtic design with a Whitby jet at its heart.”

l The Episcopal Ring (Above) and The Pectoral Cross (Below)

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The Phoenix – October 2015

Page 31

AZUZA STREET

One Born Again Every Minute :

Raj Holness (Jarrett)

R

by Chantelle Gillespie

aj Holness (Jarrett) was rejected by her family because her parents desperately longed for a son. Immediately after her birth their disappointment was dramatically transformed into venomous hatred towards their innocent child.

Raj grew up in her family home feeling isolated and alone. From the age of 6, she was sexually abused by close members of her family and endured 20 years of physical and mental abuse.

When she managed to escape, Raj found herself living alone in fear. She was unable to cope and became severely depressed; this led to a suicide attempt that Raj will never forget. An extra-ordinary miracle happened that completely turned her life around.

DESCRIBE YOUR MIRACLE

“I was repeatedly told I was hated and that I was to blame for the way I was treated. At the age of 18, my parents made arrangements for me to marry a stranger in India.

I was told by my father that the ceremony had to take place abroad because he didn’t want to waste his money on me. I was dropped off at the airport and left alone to board my flight.

When I met my husband to be, I was afraid and didn’t want to marry him. I prayed and said, “God, if you are real, please put a stop to this marriage.”

After I returned back to the UK, we received the news that his visa application had been declined. I was so excited, not just because the application was rejected, but because for the first time in my life, someone had listened to my request.

However, the refusal ignited my family’s belligerence towards me.

I was beaten relentlessly and they had no choice but to detain me in

the house to ensure that my injuries didn’t arouse any suspicions.

Shortly after, I managed to escape.

Despite being warned about my family’s plot to kill me, I was lured back into my home by my dad’s deceptive words and promises of love which I had craved all of my life.

The abuse ceased for almost a year because I persuaded friends to pretend to be the police; they would call every day to check up on me.

Eventually my mother convinced me to get the phone calls to stop, but as soon as I did, I was battered ruthlessly. I recall my father kicking and punching me in my ribs, he picked up a brick and violently waved it over my head and bellowed, “This is how much I hate you.”

I begged him to kill me; I gave up the fight and just wanted to die.

As I was drifting in and out of consciousness, I could hear my mother instructing my uncle to help her to drown me in the bath, but they couldn’t, my body was too rigid because I had gone into shock.

I prayed desperately; I needed to know that God was still listening and would help me to escape and He did. That night I broke free and ended up under police protection.

I couldn’t settle because I was constantly living in fear, but strangely enough, even though I was detested and unloved, I still desired to be part of my family unit.

I was curious about the God that saved me and even though I had no plans to become a Christian,

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people that I had befriended kindly helped me to grasp a better knowledge of God. At this point in time, I was in a relationship and deep down I knew that God was telling me to let him go, but I didn’t listen.

Eventually he became extremely hostile and violent.

I was horrified as I watched him, as he squeezed his fingers into my neck in a violent rage. He had the same demonic look in his eyes as my dad when he was trying to kill me.

I was powerless and I could feel my life slipping away; sheer panic caused me to call on the name of all of the gods that I could think of, but nothing helped.

But then, In the midst of the pandemonium I heard a still small voice that said, “When all else fails, call on the name of Jesus.” I had nothing to lose and called out His name and immediately the violence ceased.

Even though the relationship ended, my current situation had caused me to face up to the fact that I was actually unloved by my family; the abuse and torment that I had experienced was real. It was a wake-up call; the life that I was living wasn’t the norm.

My depression opened a door that welcomed suicidal thoughts.

I was ready to die, all I needed to do, was walk over to the other side of the room to get my pills so that I could overdose, but my legs froze.

I couldn’t get to my medication.

I screamed out at the top of my lungs and aggressively challenged God by demanding to be shown a sign that He was real.

Immediately I felt the room

flood with a supernatural peace and even though I was alone in the room, I felt Jesus hold me lovingly with His arms. I heard Him say, “I love you; I died so that you could have life more abundantly.”

Jesus erased my hurt and suicidal tendencies; I experienced the love and acceptance that I had been deprived of. He has blessed me with a loving husband, André and a beautiful daughter, Abigail.”

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE WHO FEELS THAT THERE IS NO HOPE?

Don’t suffer in silence, speak out now, there is always someone ready to listen. You aren’t alone and there is hope in Jesus Christ.

I was told that I would never amount to anything, but what God has blessed me with is priceless.

When all else fails call on the name of Jesus. This is a scripture that encouraged me: We escaped like a bird from a hunter’s trap.

The trap is broken, and we are free! (Psalms 124:7 NLT)” Raj is a remarkable mighty woman of God; she is living proof that Jesus still has the power to save.

In June 2015 she was named West Midlands Woman of the Year and today Raj runs a successful social enterprise called Breaking the Silence which raises awareness about domestic abuse, forced marriages and human trafficking. It supports women who have suffered abuse.

For help or support please call 0121 285 2287 (24hr hotline).

For more information about Breaking the Silence please visit www.btsuk.org or @btsuk_

telephone

0121 240 7310 email @

advertising @thephoenixnewspaper.com Contact us with your details, as well as the details of the advertisement, and one of our team will get in touch with you as soon as possible to secure your place in the paper.

Have you got something to say? Send in your stories to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 32

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Chetna’s Appeal to Bake it Better

Dear Reader, Appearing on last year’s Great British Bake Off changed my life.

Baking is my passion and today I am challenging budding bakers across the country to get baking for a great cause, Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity (GOSH).

The charity is encouraging bakers to hold a bake sale to raise vital dough for Bake it Better Week (1925 October).

The money raised will make a

Diabetes Education is key - get in touch

huge difference to young patients and families from across the UK, helping to give some of the sickest children the best chance for life.

You can host your bake sale at work, school, or with family and friends - it couldn’t be easier. Don’t worry if you produce a soggy bottom or two, Mary and Paul won’t be there to judge!

Get inspired at bakeitbetter.org, where you can find recipes from patients, hospital staff and celebrities

(including my very own ) You can even get your hands on bunting, cake toppers and posters as well as baking-themed games and top tips to give your bake sake a boost.

Best of all the money you raise through bake sales will enable Great Ormond Street Hospital to provide world-class care for young patients and their families by contributing to the rebuilding of the hospital, supporting ground-breaking research; funding the most up-to-date equipment and providing accommodation and other support services for children and their families.

Rise to the challenge, and take part in GOSH’s Bake it Better Week. On your marks, get set... BAKE! Chetna Makan

Nurses to pack a punch for patients

l Mark Sanders

Visually impaired man to take on city run

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D

iabetes UK is hoping to hear from people with diabetes who would like to talk about their experiences of attending a diabetes education course.

In an open letter from Peter Shorrick, Diabetes UK Midlands Regional Manager, Diabetes UK are trying to find out more about how the education side of treatment is progressing.

“Diabetes is a life-long condition and one that requires constant management. People with diabetes are also responsible for the vast majority of their own care so understanding their condition is vital.

Diabetes education courses such as DAFNE, DESMOND and X-Pert help give people the skills and confidence they need to take control of their diabetes.

Diabetes UK know attending a diabetes education course can be life changing. That’s why we want to make sure more people go on the courses.

If you have attended a diabetes education course then we would like to hear from you about how it helped you. If you would like to share your story please e-mail us on CommsPlanning@diabetes.org.uk.

To find out more about diabetes education course, visit www.diabetes.org.uk or call the Careline on 0345 123 2399.

The Phoenix – October 2015

T

l Looking to beat their target - Lisa Mallen (left) and Cait Nee will be entering the ring in November at Villa Park

wo nurses at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham will take to the boxing ring in a bid to raise money for patients.

Cait Nee, a 22 year old from Perry Barr, and Lisa Mallen, 30 from Kings Heath, have undertaken an intense eight week boxing course called ‘Pink Collar Boxing’ to raise money for patients on the Clinical Decision Unit (CDU) at Birmingham’s QE,

where they work.

The training will come to a fist-fighting head on Saturday 14th November at Villa Park, Aston, as the pair enter the ring and battle their opponents, having never boxed before.

Cait, who studied Nursing at the University of Birmingham, said: “Lisa and I have never done anything like this before but were attracted by the challenge!”

“My twin brothers have both

boxed before and I definitely have a competitive streak… I can’t bear the thought of losing!”

“Working ‘on the ground’ we have been able to identify things that could be helpful for our patients, so we’ve decided to raise money for the CDU fund at QEHB Charity.”

“The waiting room is always really busy and I think sometimes it’s easy to forget how stressful it can be for patients. We’d like to

use the money we raise to purchase a bookcase and activities for the waiting room, to help patients relax as they wait for appointments.”

The pair hopes to raise £250 for QEHB Charity.

To sponsor them, visit www.justgiving.com/Cait-Nee, or for more information about the Charity visit www.qehb.org.

visually impaired Solihull man will be taking on the Great Birmingham Run to raise money for the Guide Dogs charity.

Mark Sanders, who suffers from a genetic form of macular degeneration, which has caused a gradual loss of vision, will be running the event alongside his friend, Andy Harbrow, a pharmacist who took part in the event last year to raise funds for the charity whilst Mark was going through the necessary procedure to obtain a guide dog.

The 38-year-old, who was given Lilibet, a black Labrador, early this year, trains with Knowle and Dorridge Running Club and goes guide-running every week. He said: “After he completed the run last year, Andy challenged me to take part with him this year. I’d never run before, so it was a challenge.”

The two friends experienced guide-running together for the first time on July 4 when they ran a 10k together around Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London. They completed the run in under an hour.

“I just want to say thanks to the club for guide-running me and for all their support,” Mark said. “And, of course, thanks to Andy for all his help and encouragement. Hopefully we can do it in a decent time.”

The pair are hoping to raise over £1,000 for the charity.

To Advertise - Tel : 0121 240 7310 or email advertising@thephoenixnewspaper.com

The Phoenix – October 2015

Page 33

EDUCATION, TRAINING AND RECRUITMENT

Back to School at Three New Schools in the City I l Kings Solomons ‘Welcoming Ceremony’ at the Botanical Gardens

by ‘LJ’

t's back to school for thousands of pupils excited, none more so than the pupils heading for the three new schools in the city.

King Solomon International Business School a first of its kind Christian school, came about through the charity Excell3.

Dr Cheron Byfield is the chief

executive for Excell3 Limited a national educational charity stated when Michael Gove introduced the free school programme, it was felt this was the ideal opportunity to start something new.

King Solomon welcomes all children, whatever their faith, and opened its doors to its first set of reception and first year senior pupils on the 2nd September 2015.

The school is affiliated with the

prestigious Woodard Foundation, and caters for children aged 4-19, Primary, Secondary and Sixth Form provision and will at full capacity have over 1000 students.

The aim of the school is to provide a high quality academic international education, these will be underpinned by a strong Christian ethos.

With Mandarin and French as core languages that are being

taught from Reception classes, "The personalised teaching and learning approach of the school will ensure that no child is left behind" says Head Teacher Michelle Newman.

The pupils had a welcoming ceremony a tradition in line with universities such as Oxford and Cambridge welcoming them into the fold.

This took place at the Botanical gardens, special guests were the Lord Mayor of Birmingham and various Bishops and the governors.

This will now be a traditional part King Solomon school entry.

The schools motto is ‘Education Excellence and Character Development'.

For more information visit www.kingsolomanibs.com.

The University of Birmingham has open its first of a kind state school in a university. The

doors opened in September with its first intake of 150 year 7 pupils, for which they received 951 applications.

Offering private school standard education to local students for free, the school will be run by a trust set up by the university on a £23 million site at the former Selly Park teacher training college.

The project has received great support from the Department of Education, and Birmingham was one of several universities interested in the idea of running their own training school.

Head Teacher Mr Roden explains the school will be fully comprehensive and will take in 75 pupils a year based on proximity to the school's South Birmingham location, plus 25 each from three railway stations representing areas of the city where there is the biggest population growth.The Jewellery Quarter, Small Heath and Hall Green.

Its sixth form will be selective in its intake.

For more information visit www.universityschool.bham.ac.uk Perry Beeches, one of the leading "through" schools in the city, opened Perry Beeches V in the Small Heath area of Birmingham.

This 10 million pound new school launched by executive

Is education a form of training?

I

by Kesa Nkulu

n an ever increasing world of digital communication and social networking, there seems to be a real lack of quality-interaction-time between parent and child.

The child is no longer guided or initiated into life’s social skills by parents, but by television, magazine’s, music- icons, characters on video games etc.

Schools also initiate our children into areas that collide with parental ideals, as examples: early inappropriate sexual behaviour, religious dogma and historical pseudo-information.

We cannot overlook these areas of social codes of conduct, these codes hold differencing values and opinions to that of many parents who appear to have no voice.

American writer Mark Twain once wrote: “Never let your schooling interfere with your education.”

I surmise that even then people were aware that schooling was a form of ‘training’ rather than a place where you could really attain knowledge to govern your life.

Schools are introducing aspect of sexual preferences, do we send our children to school to be indoctrinated into an ideology that many of us as parents might not endorse, or do we send children to learn the ingredients that they themselves will be able to use to gain employment and have a successful life?

Children are taught aspects that can have psychological effects, leading to depression and mental illness which can have catastrophic economic effects and educational growth of the

head teacher Liam Nolan is a welcome addition to the four schools he already successfully heads up.

The school will cater for 4 -19 year olds, the first of the Perry Beeches chain to teach primary aged children.

Of course super head Liam Nolan knows his schools outstanding track record is in the secondary school era, however he is confident he has taken the best primary practitioners from across the region to launch this new addition to the school.

Mr Nolan is clear that Small Heath has one of the greatest populations of young people in Birmingham, and that Perry Beeches V is not in competition with Oldknow Academy but there to provided a non -selective family school.

The school has now opened with one hundred pupils in reception year three and year seven.

The school will reach its 1,360 pupil capacity by 2020.

For more information visit www.perrybeechesv.co.uk.

individual. 21st century schooling is fraught with pit-holes that can stunt healthy growth of the young mind.

The question of assimilation is paramount, as history teaches us that it was the missionaries who were first sent to the colonies, to ‘save the wicked’ and to bring Christianity to the people there.

What followed were schools, set up as a means of creating new generations who would think, speak, react exactly like the imperial colonists, thus creating a subservient work force.

Languages were lost, deities were disguised for Christian Saints/Gods, culture was lost and replaced by what would be easier to control, manipulate or exploited.

It is paramount in a child`s education that parents/guardians take responsibility, and be a role model for their off-spring.

Parents must start/continue to re-educate their young – this is not the job of the state. Malcolm X once said: “Only a fool would give their children to the enemy to be educated.”

So what exactly are schools doing to/for our children? It is for you to decide and to ultimately find your own conclusion. Is education a form of training? In view of our experiences as African people, it’s a question for the individual.

Page 34

HERITAGE WEEK AND LIVING ROOM

City Heritage Brought To Life In Explosion Of Activities

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y encouraging local people from all ages and backgrounds to join together and enjoy, as well as learn, about the city’s heritage, Birmingham Heritage Week It was a time to celebrate by giving visitors and citizens a fascinating insight into the history and diversity of Britain’s second city.

A host of events and activities gave people the opportunity to flag-up the city’s diverse

heritage in an entertaining and enlightening way in week which also marked significant anniversaries taking place this year - including the 300th Anniversary of Birmingham Cathedral.

At its launch, in the presence of Birmingham's Lord Mayor, Councillor Ray Hassall, Chair of the Heritage Week steering group, Councillor Waseem Zaffar said, “Birmingham has an

amazing heritage that needs to be celebrated and shared with those that live in the city as well as further afield.

It's also important to recognise the contribution made by Brummies that have helped shape this city and had an impact on the international stage.”

Carl Chinn MBE, FRSA, FBirm.Soc, professor of Birmingham Community History, at the University of Birmingham,

The Phoenix – October 2015

and a prouder Brummie, waxed lyrically, saying: “Annually, we have the largest Vaisakhi celebrations outside of Asia and the third largest St. Patrick's Day celebrations outside of Dublin and New York.”

As well as a packed programme, Birmingham Heritage Week also coincide with this year’s Heritage Open Days (10 – 13 Sept), the UK’s biggest heritage festival.

A Right Royal Return for the Ashanti King

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fter 18 years, HRH Ohene Nana A g y e mang Nyamekye Amlak the Aduana Hene Of Kwakye Dida Nsuta Ashanti In Ghana, High Chief Awîśè Ogun Of IleIfe Osun State Nigeria And Bobagunwa of Abrigini Ogboni London and Europe, will be gracing us with his presence when he will be giving his Royal approval, as a Very Special Guest of Honour and one of the specially invited dignitaries at The Phoenix Newspaper 5th Anniversary Gala Dinner & Awards Presentation, in December.

In re-igniting the special relationship formed all those years ago, His Excellency will also be gracing us with his presence at the designated 5th Anniversary Gala Dinner & Awards Ceremony Press Conference, on the 15th October at The Cube, Birmingham.

King Ohene Nana gained international recognition, and mass worldwide media awareness, when, in 1997, he was inaugurated as Leader of the Ashanti region.

That year, he was also special guest at the official launch of Street Cred Entertainment/Lifestyle Magazine, again creating

global media interest, here, in Birmingham.

The PhoenExpo, Exhibition, Anniversary Gala Dinner & Awards Presentation takes place at the Bethel Convention Centre, in West Bromwich, on December 5.

Wassifa Showcase at the helm of ‘Living Room’ exhibition

S

l Mykal ‘Wassifa’ Brown in the Living Room Exhibition

oho House Museum has been working in close partnership with Ladywoods Arts Forum & Wassifa-Inspire to explore different community integration and their heritage.

Working together with Handsworth and Soho Heritage Exhibition, it proved a major exhibition at the visitors centre in Soho House, former home of industrialist and entrepreneur, Matthew Boulton, looking at the culture and history of Birmingham’s African-Caribbean community.

Wassifa Director Mykal Brown said: “It was to show people that we are part of the city and to tell our Caribbean story.

We were born here and we will have an impact on the future of

Birmingham.”

The exhibition featured a 1960s recreated living room space, displays about the growth of local community organizations with Wassifa Sound and the Nishkam Centre at the helm.

There was also a photographic exhibition highlighting recent Handsworth histories from the 1980s onwards with visitors able to view the free exhibition for the most part of the week.

Backed by the Heritage Week chair, Councillor Waseem Zaffar MBE for Lozells & East Handsworth, ‘Living Room’ was one of a series of events from September 10 to 17 to celebrate Birmingham’s incredible journey, the contributions made by its citizens in making Britain what it is today and also the

more recent contributions made by communities that have come, gone and stayed.

Birmingham Heritage Week also included concerts, trails, talks and more, to give an insight into the diversity of the city’s culture.

l Jahmi Williams

The Phoenix – October 2015

Page 35

Page 36

ADOPTION AND FOSTERING

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There are already so many fantastic individuals who foster and adopt children into their families- but we need more!

Whether a crisis in the family, illness or relationship difficulties could be some of the reasons why a child is placed in care.

At the Phoenix, all of our team are committed to raising awareness of fostering and adoption through our campaign not just for the month of May, but for an entire 12 months!

ith a national shortage of Foster carers across the UK, there are more children than ever who need a caring and loving environment, which every child has the right to experience.

The Phoenix – October 2015

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

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

Too old at 4?

N

ational Adoption Week 2015 will be taking place this month; from 19-25 with the theme is ‘Too old at 4?’

Older children waiting to be adopted are often likely to be in sibling groups or to have additional needs and there is currently a shortage of adoptive parents coming forward for these children.

Sadly, sibling groups, those with com-

plex needs and children from black and minority ethnic families are amongst the children who wait longest to be adopted.

During ‘National Adoption Week 2015’ local authorities, adoption agencies, and all of us who work in adoption, will be working together to highlight the plight of these vulnerable children and to help them find forever families.

Are you ready to foster?

L

ooking to foster a child?

The best way forward is usually either through a local authority or through an independent fostering agency that works with the local authority.

Fostering is a way of providing a family life for children who cannot live with their own parents.

It is often used to provide temporary care while parents get help sorting out problems or to help children or young people through a difficult period in their lives.

Often children will return home once the problems that caused them to come into foster care have been resolved and that it is clear that their parents are

able to look after them safely.

Others may stay in long-term foster care, some may be adopted, and others will move on to live independently.

The foster carer's role is to provide high quality care for the child. All children in foster care will be looked after by a local authority and the foster carers will work in partnership with the local authority to provide this. The carer may also work with other professionals such as therapists, teachers or doctors to help the child to deal with emotional traumas or physical or learning disabilities.

Are you ready for a rewarding challenge?

Leading Charities Warn Over 10,000 Children at Risk

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poll commissioned by the British Association for Adoption and Fostering (BAAF) reveals that 91% of the UK adult population do not know what private fostering is.

BAAF and ECPAT UK, an anti-child trafficking charity, are concerned that more than 10,000 children may be at risk because carers and members of the public don’t know they need to notify their local authority about private fostering arrangements.

Private fostering describes an arrangement that lasts for 28 days or more, where a child is cared for by someone who isn’t a close relative.

This means someone who isn’t a grandparent, uncle, aunt, step parent or older brother or sister.

By law, parents and carers must notify their local authority of any private fostering arrangement.

Government estimates put the number of privately fostered children at above 10,000 in the UK. However last year local authorities were only notified of 1,560 new private fostering ar-

rangements in England.

BAAF believes the shortfall in reporting is due to lack of awareness amongst the public and carers. This latest private fostering research was conducted by Survation and commissioned by BAAF as part of the Private Fostering Week (6-10 June, 2015) awareness-raising campaign.

The survey found that only 9% of the UK adult population could correctly identify the definition of private fostering.

A further 56% of people claimed they had never heard of private fostering.

To ensure that private foster carers and children receive the support they need, BAAF and ECPAT UK are asking private foster carers to notify their local authority of their situation.

BAAF and ECPAT UK are also calling for professionals who may come into contact with privately fostered children, in health, education, childcare, police, immigration and housing, to alert their local authority if they suspect a child is privately fostered.

Chief Executive of BAAF, Caroline Selkirk, commented:

“There could be thousands of children in private fostering arrangements that the authorities are totally unaware of.

It is important that local authorities know where these children are so that they can protect them and provide appropriate support.

Please help us make sure these children don’t remain invisible.

If you are privately fostering a child, all you need to do is notify your local authority and this means you will be able to access appropriate support.

If you suspect a child is being privately fostered, then I would urge you to inform your local authority so they can investigate further.”

Chloe Setter, Head of Ad-

vocacy, Policy & Campaigns ECPAT UK, said: "Unregistered private fostering arrangements put children in an extremely vulnerable position.

There is a deficit of knowledge about child trafficking among some frontline practitioners, which means sometimes trafficking is not identified.

More must be done to shine a light on this situation and ensure all private fostering arrangements are registered in order to protect children from abuse.

It is not acceptable to have children hidden in our communities living away from their parents and guardians in situations that might put them at risk."

The Phoenix – October 2015

Page 37

PROPERTY AND OVERSEAS NEWS

New Property Opportunities

Qatar Airways Host VIP Dinner In Celebration Of Pakistan Expansion

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uy-to-Let and student investments are a very attractive prospect for many independent in-

vestors.

Lower house prices, more tenants in the market, rising rents and improving mortgage deals make the buy-to-let market a viable investment avenue, with rates of return steadily rising year-on-year in line with inflation.

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atar Airways hosted a signature event at the Ramada Hotel Multan, to celebrate its rapid expansion in Pakistan, with new flights launched to Multan, Sialkot and Faisalabad in July and August.

The VIP Dinner, which was attended by more than 150 guests from the corporate and travel trade spheres, featured the launch of a community initiative in Pakistan to com-

memorate the new route launches.

Qatar Airways joined hands with Qatar Charity to support the building of a medical centre, “Al Amal,” located in the Khanewal Directorate in Pakistan.

Chef Ed Harris Jr. takes home the title “International Iron Chef Competition Champion 2015”

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he Saint Lucia Tourist Board and renowned Saint Lucian Chef Ed Harris recently participated in the Harbourfront Centre’s International Iron Chef Compet-

ition in Toronto Canada on September 6th & 7th 2015.

This year, the focus of the competition was on keeping it hot, spicy and sustainable and the Chefs were challenged to use local, sustainable ingredients from their homeland.

As a main theme of the Hot & Spicy Food Festival, the Culinary experiences shape all aspects of global culture and food continues to thrive as a central method of cultural expression.

The competition explored global cuisine, as innovations in food production and preparation move toward a highly specialized art form.

Chef Ed’s participation at the Hot and Spicy festival was coordinated by the Saint Lucia Tourist Board’s Canadian team and provided an opportunity to bring together

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the Saint Lucian community to showcase the flavors of the island. Within the Saint Lucia Tourist Board’s booth, Saint Lucia’s own Ti Kaye La sauces showcased their line of Saint Lucia sauces which are on sale in Toronto and were used in Chef Ed’s winning recipe.

“This collaboration was a very successful one as Canadians came out in strong numbers both families, tourists and food lovers alike, and were very interested in learning about Saint Lucia and tasting the local flavors. The interest in Saint Lucia was elevated during the Iron Chef Competition as Chef Ed and Canada battled to the bitter end. So we couldn’t be more thrilled for Ed and his success in his first Canadian Competition”, said Alison Theodore, Marketing Manager for the Saint Lucia Tourist Board.

ouse building activity in the UK this year is set to top levels seen in 2014, according to new figures released by NHBC. The new home registrations statistics reveal an increase of 11% for the rolling quarter June – August, compared to the same period last year.

A total of 40,101 new homes were registered in the UK during this period, up on the 36,149 new homes registered in the previous year.

The private sector increased by 12% during this period (30,210 in 2015; 27,072 last year), with the public sector increasing by 9% from last year (9,891 in 2015; 9,077 last year).

As the leading warranty and insurance provider for new homes in the UK, NHBC’s registration statistics help to provide new and accurate data on the country’s new homes market.

Commenting on the latest registration statistics, NHBC Chief Executive Mike Quinton said: “Despite a slight decrease for August, overall registration levels for the rolling quarter show the same steady growth we’ve seen throughout 2015.

“However, we are now seeing

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Our Brand New Jubilee Court student property investment is our 10th development with the UK’s only NHBC certified student developer.

Investors benefit from sector high yields and robust security.

New home levels continue to rise despite August dip, reports NHBC registration volumes fall in the public and affordable sector after a good start to the year. This may be due to many housing associations holding back on developments in light of welfare reforms and the cap on rental increases.

We will closely monitor this over the coming months, along with the private sector, as the house building industry strives to build more new, quality homes that the UK needs.”

Page 38

HOLIDAYS, TRAVEL AND OVERSEAS NEWS

St. Croix To Host Restaurant Week

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he U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism has launched Restaurant Week on the island of St. Croix from Wednesday, October 28 to Sunday, November 8, 2015.

Dubbed "Dine VI," this culinary showcase is a 10-day celebration of the cuisine, culture and community of St. Croix, and will feature an array of events and dining experiences in addition to the traditional prix fixe menu offerings.

"We are highlighting the diverse culinary offerings found throughout our islands for Dine VI," said Commissioner of Tourism Beverly Nicholson-Doty, who explained that "to fully appreciate the wide variety of culinary talent on St. Croix, we

needed more than seven days."

The Department of Tourism's Manager of Product Development and Sustainable Marketing Carlotta Luis has been instrumental in spearheading this inaugural initiative, which according to Commissioner Nicholson-Doty has been carefully developed "to attract food aficionados and gourmands as well as culinary, travel and lifestyle journalists and influencers to cover the island's burgeoning culinary scene."

"Dine VI" festivities will incorporate various elements of the St. Croix community, including restaurants, farmers and purveyors, chefs and amateur cooks, schools, gospel groups, culture bearers, local businesses and more.

The Phoenix – October 2015

The Best Places to Discover Central America's Biodiversity

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ome to eight percent of the world's biodiversity, Central America's mild temperatures, humid climate and over 400 protected areas make it one of the best places in the world to discover thousands of endemic species, luscious rainforests and stunning coastlines.

Visit CentroamĂŠrica highlights some of the best places to enjoy Central America's biodiversity: BEST FOR SEALIFE: The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef,

Belize.

Located on the east coast of the isthmus, Belize is one of the most exciting places in the world for water lovers. Thousands flock to Belize to admire the second biggest coral reef in the world: the Mesoamerican.

BEST FOR MONKEYS: Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica.

Costa Rica's geographic position, coasts and mountain ranges have made it one of the richest places in the world in terms of endemic species. The best

place for monkey spotting and trekking in Central America is in Costa Rica's Manuel Antonio National Park.

BEST FOR INSECTS: Bosawas Biosphere Reserve, Nicaragua Nicaragua is home to the largest expanse of rainforest in the whole of Central America, the Bosawas Biosphere Reserve, which spreads over almost 15% of Nicaragua's national territory in the north of the country.

To Advertise - Telephone : 0121 240 7310 or email us : advertising@thephoenixnewspaper.com

The Phoenix – October 2015

2003 hero Bracken, A backing the game beyond ‘15

Page 39

SPORT - WITH STEVE WILLIAMS

s England kickedoff the IRB World Cup, 2003 cup-winning hero, Kyran Bracken, held an exclusive World Cup 'Pitch Perspective' Q & A session, in Birmingham, for rugby devotees as he share his predictions and offer his unique insight into the challenges that the host nation faced during the tournament.

The former scrum-half was on hand to reminisce over his illustrious career, that glorious day down under and the future of the game.

The Irish-born star was open about his time as a rugby player and equally so about his daunting experience on ITV’s ‘Dancing On Ice’ showcase, especially as he never skated before and the future of Eng-

lish rugby post-World Cup. With ‘union getting greater attention, especially since ‘that day’ in Melbourne, Bracken spoke candidly about taking up the opportunity to appear on the reality TV show; “After the euphoria of English rugby’s, and my professional, greatest day, I missed the competition, the banter, the camaraderie of competition.”

On the future of the game in this country, Bracken mused: “Rugby (Union) is in its best position ever. The England set-up is attracting a new breed of young, expansive, exciting players who want to play the game.

More schools are taken up rugby - although not enough schools – but more has to be invested into the grassroots so that we can maximize on the impact it has made.”

On the destination of the Webb Ellis Trophy, he said: “Away from England, can you really see past the All Blacks?”

Only time will tell.

l Kyran Bracken talking with fans at the Pitch Perspective Q&A

Kash Gill – ‘Gone In A Flash’ l Running Man - Mark Walters

Villa hero, Walters, backing MIND in second city Half Marathon

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ormer Aston Villa winger Mark Walters is back in full training as he, again, the mental health charity prepares to be part of the 20,000 plus runners who will be taking part in this year’s Morrisons Great Birmingham Run. The one-time England international, who also played for Glasgow Rangers and Liverpool, will be once again out pounding the streets of his home city to raise funds, and awareness, for the mental health charity, MIND. England's second city is the perfect stage for the event that attracts competitors from across the UK and around the world.

The course will be taking in some of the city's most iconic sights including the newly-built Grand Central train station, Bullring, the Cadbury World and Edgbaston cricket ground.

To help the former football hero in his quest, login to: https:// www.justgiving.com/Mark-Walters8SantosReid/ To find out more about MIND and mental health go to: www.mind.org.uk The 13-mile Morrisons Great Birmingham Run takes place on Sunday October 18.

Celebrations all round for promoted Handsworth

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fter 35 years it was time for one of Birmingham’s finest to celebrate his overwhelming contribution to the city of his birth.

Kash ‘The Flash’ Gill marked this milestone by inviting family, friends and admirers to the grounds of Handsworth Library as they paid homage to the 4-times World Kick-Boxing champion – and the mark he has left on the place he so loves.

The day: ‘Gone In A Flash,’ was hosted by another of the city’s celebrated ‘sons’ and fellow martial arts exponent, Hector ‘Mr. Handsworth’ Pinkney MBE, with a number of local guests and dignitaries present to mark what was an auspicious occasion.

“Since starting kick-boxing, at the age of 14, this has been my life – 24/7. It’s been great to me – I’ve travelled the world and seen lots of things. This means everything to me.

But, typical of the man, he saw the day as: “A day for ‘us’ to celebrate...not ’me.’ This area is full of heroes. Hector, for instance, deserves praise for his work in the community, as does our own superstar musicians, Apache Indian and Steel Pulse, plus footballing ‘freestyle’ champion, Rob Walters and Councillor Waseem Zaffar MBE for the Lozells & East Handsworth ward.”

The day was in support Birmingham Children’s Hospital and St. Basil’s Housing Association, as

well as to launch his own ‘Unity In The Community’ charity.

Even on a day that was all about ‘him,’ Kash ‘The Flash’ Gill made sure he made it all about ‘us.’

He first became a world champion at the age of 21, formally retiring from fighting in 2002.

a n d s w o r t h Cricket Club secured promotion after a thrilling title-deciding match against Olton & West Warwickshire in a ‘winner-takes-all’ final fixture.

In a tense rain-effected win the host (Handsworth) were skittled out for a seemingly reachable 152 all-out, in 45overs, but, with tight bowling and fielding, the visitors fell well short of their target, making a paltry 113 all out in 39overs - cue delirious celebrations.

Club Chair, Eaton Gordon, a Community Participation Officer at Warwickshire C.C.C., said: “A tremendous day for the club and a great fillip for all of Handsworth and its communities.

Next season, now, we aim to hold our own in the Birmingham League which, in itself, brings a fresh challenge for our go-ahead club.

Seamer, Kenrick Smith, was ‘Man of the Match,’ not for bowling, but his 45 runs with the bat which saw his side over the line.

Have you got something to say? Send in your stories to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

Kyran Bracken talks Rugby - Page 39

Hitman Sunny raising cash with White Collar Championship

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hree-time World Kickboxing Champion, Sunny ‘Hitman’ Hira, is working on a new goal in his life having established his position in the all-time list of greats with his own search, for a champion of a different kind.

The former featherweight fighter, using his Hitman Promotions remit, is behind the ‘White Collar Championship’ event, which will be providing fantastic opportunities for professional city workers, with little or no experience, to step into the boxing ring in a professional set-up, under professional rules, but no full contact.

Contestants have been

coached like professional athletes, at Sunny’s ‘Fight Club’ sessions, at The Cube’s exclusive new health club and spa, by the city’s Mailbox, going through every aspect, and emotions, as a full-time professional fighter – without full contact.

Director, Hira, 32, says: “It’s going to be an incredible experience for all concerned.

The fact that there will be men and women who do regular 9-5 jobs, some of whom have never seen a fight, let alone did any kind of boxing, and they will be ‘slugging it out’ with each other, like pro’s, without making any contact at all.”

Hitman Promotions, which offers a wide range of sanctioned fight events, include:

B.O.L.T. to strike gold with Jamaica visit

Kick Boxing, Muay Thai, K1 and MMA, will be holding the event to raise £20,000 for Birmingham Children’s Hospital.

Hira, who also runs the Lions Gym, in Coventry, said “To ‘give back’ has always been my mindset in life. And, as a father of three, that was the drive, to do this event which is the very least I can do for the work carried out at the Hospital.

Ever since I won my first belt, at 23, I’ve always wanted to find a way to say ‘Thank You’ for that, and the subsequent, opportunities I have had in this sport.”

The ‘White Collar Championships’ at the Regency Suite, in Edgbaston, takes place on October 31.

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l Three-time World Kickboxing Champion, Sunny ‘Hitman’ Hira

he B.O.L.T. (City of Birmingham Olympic Legacy Tour) saw the select few of the city’s finest parks cricketers set off to take on the best amateurs in Jamaica and raise money for hospital equipment out there.

There will be no time to let the grass grow under their feet, with an action packed visit including six Olympic Legacy Cricket Matches across the island, two Olympic Legacy Cricket Coaching Clinics, an Olympic Legacy ‘Good Deed Days,’ an Olympic Legacy Gospel Concert and other exciting activities.

The man behind this exciting development in relationships between Birmingham and the Caribbean island, Sted Wallen, says: “This tour is all about legacy. We have 18 great players who will do Birmingham proud.

The squad is a representation of the city’s cultural diversity and the amazing itinerary will be beneficial to both Birmingham and Jamaica.”

The highlight for the tourists is their last match against a Select XI at the iconic Sabina Park, in Kingston.

QE Ward 625 nurses set for Great Birmingham Run

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ine nurses from the Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QE) in Birmingham are gearing up to run the Morrisons Great Birmingham Run to raise funds for Cure Leukaemia.

The team all work on blood cancer ward 625 at the hospital and administer some of the treatments made possible by funds raised for the charity.

They are set to join another strong Team Cure Leukaemia for the 13.1 mile half marathon on Sunday October 18th for an event that has raised over £200,000 for the charity

in the last two years.

September is Blood Cancer Awareness Month and Kate Rogers, Laura Conway, Jennifer Slater, Rebecca Walker, Kiran Ali, Rachael Cooke, Jaclyn Smith, Mark Everitt and Melissa Magson are aiming to raise as much money as possible to benefit the patients they treat every day.

Kate Rogers, ward 625 sister said, “we're all really excited to be taking part in the Morrisons Great Birmingham Run! We'll run as a team and get through the 13.1mile course knowing that we will be helping the patients we treat every day.”

“The work Cure Leukaemia support makes such a difference to the lives of blood cancer patients in our region and we are determined to raise as many funds as possible to save more lives. We'd urge people to give what they can as any donation big or small can do so much.”

James McLaughlin, Cure Leukaemia's Chief Executive said, “it is fantastic to have such a strong team from the QE representing the charity in the Morrisons Great Birmingham Run.” To donate to the Laura and the team go to: www.JustGiving.com/625