Happy Feet 2 (3D)

– Directed by George Miller and starring the voice of Elijah Wood and Robin Williams

The sequel to Happy Feet returns with the story to the ice with the story of Mumble’s son Erik, who unlike his father is reluctant to dance, and runs away and encounters the Mighty Sven, a penguin who can fly!

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Hugo

– Directed by Martin Scorsese and starring ‘The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas’ Asa Butterfield, Sacha Baron Cohen, Ben Kingsley and Jude Law

Hugo is a twelve year old orphan who lives in the walls of a Paris railway station, and after trying to fix a robot he father had not finished, he finds the help off a girl who has the right key to get the robot working.

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The Thing

– Directed by Matthijs van Heijningen Jr. and starring Mary Elizabeth Winstead and Joel Edgerton

At an Antarctica research site, a team of scientists discover an alien buried deep within the ice, and realise too late that the ‘thing’ is still alive.

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Puss in Boots

– Directed by Chris Miller and starring the voices of Antonio Banderas and Salma Hayek

A prequel to the much loved Shrek films, it follows the adventures of Puss in Boots, before he meets Shrek and Donkey.

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Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows

 – Directed by Guy Richie and starring Robert Downey Jr., Jude Law and Jared Harris.

Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson return to join forces to outwit and bring down their most cunning and fiercest adversary Professor Moriarty.

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We Bought a Zoo

– Directed by Cameron Crowe and starring Matt Damon and Scarlett Johansson

A father uses his life savings to buy Dartmoor Zoological Park which faces destruction, moving his family in with 200 exotic animals.

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The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo

– Directed by David Fincher and starring Daniel Craig and Rooney Mara

The film adaption of the popular award winning Swedish book follows a Journalist named Mikael Blomkvist who searches for a woman missing for forty years, and is aided in his searching by Lisbeth Salander.

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Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol

– Directed by Brad Bird and starring Tom Cruise, Jeremy Renner and Paula Patton

Bombing in Kremlin while IMF agent Ethan Hunt is involved in an operation in Moscow leads to the Russian government categorising the case as an ‘undeclared act of war’ and the closer of the IMF, forcing Hunt and his team to clear their organisation’s name.

Reviews by Nikita Gaur

RKZ – Gonna Be That (BURBAN Remix) feat. AC, Swami Baracus, Menis, Lost Souljah, Raxstar & Kaly

This is an amazing new urban track featuring some amazingly talented artists! RKZ first produced ‘Gonna Be That’ filmed by StareIntoTheSun (@SSidWasHere) which was an amazing hit, but wanted more and went on to produce the incredible Burban Remix which was performed at the BritAsia Music Awards and gained one huge applause from the audience. I believe that this track is based on life and is extremely deep. I recommend this track to anyone who likes a bit of urban music as this is truly on ground-breaking track.

Click here to view the embedded video.

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PBN – Fitteh Moo

PBN (Punjabi By Nature) has done it again and created one amazing track that reached number one in the itunes chart when it was first released! PBN is a music producer, composer and singer with amazing talent. The songs he has produced always become hits and definitely ones that are playing non-stop at weddings. Fitteh Moo is a funny and extremely catchy tune which I have been playing on repeat since it has been released! I definitely recommend you download/ buy this beat bouncing track on http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/fitteh-moo-single/id447855178 and support this artist and catch up with the lastest by following him on twitter: @PBN1

Click here to view the embedded video.

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Mumzy Stranger & Junai Kaden

Mumzy Stranger has brought a new artist to the Asian scene…his name is Juani Kaden. Junai has already made some amazing and popular collaborations with Mumzy Stranger and is becoming more and more popular within the Asian community. His first single ‘Aaja Meri Naal’ was on most people’s playlists as soon as it was released. The fact that Mumzy Stranger is already an extremely well known Asian artist and has worked with more popular singers, such as Malkit Singh, gives him a higher credibility and makes him more popular.  He has now brought in a new artist, and everyone is excited to hear his first single. I think that they got more than they expected!  Junai has also gone on to release songs such as ‘Nai Chaida Tera Pyaar’ which became more of a hit, as his first single proved to be outstanding. Juani now has a new release coming out soon called ‘Tere Nakhre’ so watch out! For more information on release dates and tours follow Juani Kaden (@JunaiKaden) or Mumzy (MumzyStranger).

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Jernade Miah – Bedroom Economics

Jernade Miah is Brit-Asia’s newest artist and his new album is definitely something everyone should listen to! His voice has been referred to being similar to Chris Brown’s which an amazing compliment for a new artist. The new album ‘Bedroom Economics’ includes songs from different topics, which I like the most as it makes each of the songs special and unique. Some of the songs present Jernade being slightly vain, but what else do you expect from someone so good looking? J Jernade has posted this album on his website http://www.jernademiah.com/ along with two other albums called ‘Checkmate’ and ‘Double Check’ and all three are available for FREE download! Help Jernade make it big in the world of music and support him and his amazing music.

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> > > > > > > > > Film Reviews > > > > > > > > > >

Patiala House Reviewed by Komal Shemar

Akshay’s has had a losing streak with films recently but with the help of director Nikhil Advani and the beautiful co-star Anushka Sharma he is back with a bang! This is a fun-filled film of the year for me personally and you’d be ‘pagal’ to miss it!

The film consists of two things every Bollywood addict loves: cricket and that unique Punjabi magic! Patiala House is literally a house which is a residence to a big  typical Punjabi family. From interfering aunties to annoying uncles and young ‘hip’cousins, this family has it all. The head of the family being Bauji (Rishi Kapoor), known as the ‘Sarpanch of Southall’ helping the Asians to rise against racism as he himself was witness to racist attacks on his own family. The attacks eventually lead to a death in the family and the stage at which his strict Sikh son had to cut off his hair, a heartbreaking moment for him and his family. Many years later Bauji still passionately hates all things English, which leads to him stopping his son Gattu (Akshay Kumar)  from playing for the England Cricket Team.

With a family full of dreams to become different individuals such as a chef, designer, filmmaker and rapper, only Gattu could set them free by fulfilling his own dream first of becoming a successful cricketer. But the impossible only starts to become possible when the budding Simran Chaggal comes on the scene, bringing a spark of joy and hope along for Gattu and his family. But will Gattu get to fulfill his dream and open up a new path for the next generation of Patiala House or will he always stay a puppet to his dad? Cast members include the Punjabi rapper Hard Kaur who plays Komal Chatwal and Dimple Kapadia, India’s finest actress of her time, playing Gattu’s mother. With laughter, love, tears and some hot Bollywood tunes this film is a must see. Like I said, you would be pagal to miss it!

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> > > > > > > > > Music Reviews > > > > > > > > >

Reviews by Manisha Leel

Garry Sandhu - Sahan To Pyariya

This song is very beautiful but also emotional as it is about a girl who falls in love, but her guy joins the Navy. When the girl expects him to return she comes to find that he’s returned in an ash vase and is mortified. It then shows a perception on how she’s suffering with out him and with his loss.

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Garry Sandhu - Dil De De

This song is very upbeat and has a catchy rhythm to it, it’s funky and something classy that people would listen to at a party.

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Manni Sandhu - Door Ni Kulne

This song is an ace track. It’s been out for a while now and is still way up in the charts, not only are many people still listening to it but it meets all the standards of a tune and beat, and also it has an amazing upbeat base which makes you want to get up on your feet and dance your socks off.

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Blitz feat Juggy D & TigerStyle – Take Your Picture

Braaaaap! Now this is what I call a tune, it’s got a great bassline, a great beat, and has me dancing to it so what can be better then eh… well apart from the lyrics of course!

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PBN feat H Dhami – Gereh Kad Dee

Click here to view the embedded video.

Gereh Kad Dee… well that is me half the time, I mean come on this isn’t a song you wanna miss out on, it’s great to get the oldies on their feet and raving.

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> > > > > > > > > > Gig Preview > > > > > > > > >

Preview by Ambreen Mahmood
An Evening With The One And Only – The Unforgettable Imran Khan
Friday the 15^th of July brings a very exciting and amazing event to the heart of West Midlands; the music event that we have all been waiting for. The one and only Imran Khan is coming to town and he brings many other acts such as Garry Sandhu, Roach Killa, Highflyers, Jus Ritz, Kaz Khan and more. With the Asian music industry evolving all the time, Imran Khan fits in very well and has brought something new to the bhangra scene – and he is succeeding  massively. Hailing from the streets of Holland, he brings a brand new spark to the UK Punjabi music.

Imran Khan first launched himself onto the music scene with the song ‘Ni Nachleh’. He instantly sent sparks off in the music industry and brought a sense of liberation amongst the British Asian community. This was merely a preview to what was to come from Imran Khan. From his first smash hit to worldwide smash hits such as ‘Amplifier’ and then ‘Bewafa’, he adds another side to the hyped-up and energetic bhangra genre.

As you can clearly see from the poster, this concert is not only about Imran Khan, it is also about the likes of Garry Sandhu, Roach Killa and the Highflyers. Garry Sandhu being the latest young and talented star to make his way onto the bhangra scene, with his boyish good looks, inspiring style and with a voice to die for, Garry Sandhu is another exciting element to this concert. So this is a must-go-to event for all Imran Khan and general bhangra fans, being the only live concert in the Midlands before he goes on a worldwide tour.

Hey, if you do check it out, drop us a line to say what you thought of it.

D’Arranged Marriage
Presented By Desi Central
Friday 9^th September, 7:30pm, Cost: £11 (£9)
The Drum, 144 Potters Lane, Aston, Birmingham B6 4UU
Age Restriction: 16+

D’Arranged Marriage is the story of a New Zealander with Indian roots. It is about 29 year old Sanjay Gupta who lives at home with a job in his father’s corner shop and dreams of being a stand-up comedian, whilst constantly avoiding the issue of an arranged marriage. Finally agreeing to a marriage prospect, he discovers that Neenu is the girl for him!

This one-man show has something for everyone, with features such as Bollywood-style songs and dance routines and a funny look at life in New Zealand for an Indian. The show is a global success and has already been performed in seven countries over 200 times! The actor impersonates many characters to impress everyone and anyone. With eight characters all rolled up into one actor, this is probably the funniest Indian parody of a typical Indian family since ‘Bend It Like Beckham’.
By Ambreen Mahmood (17)

The portrayal of Science in the media 29th Nov 2011

We often come across the occasional science feature that receives extensive media coverage. Most recently, the news that neutrinos had been detected in an experiment at the CERN laboratory in Switzerland travelling faster than the speed of light, which in physics is thought to be impossible.

Yet sometimes the actual ‘science’ that supposedly support these stories is questionable as the way in which media conveys the science that underpins the story can be easily misinterpreted or seemingly contradicted by another news story from another paper. The almost doomsday-like coverage of the “solar flares 2013″ story is a good example. This news first came to media attention in the past couple of years and will especially feature more strongly as the ‘2013 apocalypse fear’ is capitalised on by the media. For those of you who haven’t heard of this exciting story, solar flares release a large burst of energy and this natural phenomenon is allegedly going to interfere with Earth’s electricity during 2013 when the solar cycle is at its peak.

I interviewed scientist James Griffiths for his thoughts on some recent media stories to try and clear the air, and offers his opinion on some of the questions I end up asking myself!

Firstly where does your area of expertise/interest lie? Are there any interesting advances or research in this area?
I’ve spent the past three years studying Physics at King’s College London, it was a terrific experience and the course involved a wide range of topics. I’m now specialising in the field of energy at Darwin College, Cambridge.

I think I chose to study energy because of the wide range of problems currently facing the sector. People are demanding more and more energy yet providing that energy is becoming increasingly difficult; depleting oil and gas reserves combined with the need to reduce our carbon emissions means conventional oil and gas power stations are facing stiff opposition, and the recent crisis at the Fukushima nuclear power plant has severely damaged the reputation of the nuclear fission industry. Yet, despite these difficulties there is promise and potential from the new generation of renewables such as wind, tidal and my particular research area solar.

If you could visit any place in space, (be it at a microscopic level or infinitely large) where would it be and why?
I think I would have to choose the quantum world, a world that is just a trillionth the size of our own world. To see an electron orbit the nucleus of an atom or the fluctuations in a photon would be spectacular. More than just seeing sub atomic particles though, the quantum world operates very differently from the world that we experience; it’s a world of random fluctuations and definite uncertainties, where virtual photons are momentarily created only to disappear again nanoseconds later.

I’ve been trying to visualize what shape the universe actually is, what do you think? Ever since I found out about the Holographic principle, it made me wonder what shape or form it could be, if we are a ‘cosmic hologram’ projected from the edge of the universe.
The shape of the universe is a problem that has been puzzling mathematicians, physicists and astronomers alike for millennia. In trying to understand the 3 dimensional universe that we live in it is easiest to start by considering a 2 dimensional object, for instance a simple piece of paper. A piece of paper can be folded in many different ways to produce several different 3 dimensional objects, such as cubes, cuboids, pyramids, and for the very skilled in origami, spheres. Similarly 3 dimensional objects can form other higher dimensional shapes, which are simply beyond our imagination and therefore considering the shape of the universe is unfortunately beyond our grasp.

The holographic principle is an idea which has been very important in understanding black holes. The principle, which describes the information of the three dimensional structure in a two dimensional context – similar to the holograms in everyday life and 3D films – finally proved that the radiation emitted by black holes contains information about the radiation that entered the black hole. Whilst the holographic principle has been very successful in describing the specific nature of black holes, it still has many obstacles to overcome before it can be regarded as an accurate description of our universe.

There has been plenty of media coverage recently, highlighting how scientists at CERN believe they have detected neutrinos travelling faster than the speed of light, consequently disproving the Theory of Relativity. If this is true, what will this now mean for the future of science?
The idea that no object can travel faster than the speed of light, is one of the most fundamental principles in physics, it’s the basis of special relativity, which is in turn the foundation of many other theories, many of which are proven to very high degrees of accuracy. My natural response to this result at CERN, is that there is an intrinsic error in their experiment. What they are trying to achieve is very difficult, and simply measuring the distance from the source to the detector is incredibly difficult. My assumption is that another experiment will quite soon discredit the result.

I’ve seen the words ‘solar flares’ and ’2013′ dominate the newspapers for a while. I’m somewhat sceptical to believe headlines and ‘the science’ the papers provide behind NASA’s warning. With the advancements and intelligence today, will it all be nothing more than a big fuss over nothing or something more?
It is true that there will be increased solar activity in 2013 as the Sun peaks in its current solar cycle and it is additionally true that this increased activity could potentially cause many electrical systems to fail. Whilst though this could have an adverse affect on many of our electrical and communication systems, the ‘doomsday scenario’ that is publicised by the media is simply an exaggerated dramatisation of the potential risks.

This is just one example though of a larger issue between science and the media. This has most recently been demonstrated by the events in Fukishima, where the media reported on a daily basis about the ‘deadly threat’ from the nuclear station and yet not a single person has shown critical symptoms as a result of exposure to the radiation. However, it is very easy to blame the media for their dramatisations, perhaps as scientists we should share some of the blame and in the future take a more active role in informing the public and sharing with them directly our own knowledge and discoveries.

Physics over the past 100 years or so seems to have progressed exponentially. What do you see happening in the next 50 years?
I think my own specialism of energy, will undergo dramatic changes. The long promised advancements in solar energy are finally being realised, with the latest generation of solar cells showing significantly improved efficiencies. The motor industry too is currently developing more sustainable forms of transport, with every major manufacturer currently designing either electric or hydrogen vehicles. Perhaps in the next 50 years we may even see the holy grail of energy, clean and sustainable nuclear fusion but whether this will be realised is an exciting mystery, which none of us can foresee. 

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US researchers have developed a miniature camera that can fit on the head of a pin! 25th Aug 2011

It may sound like a novel gadget from science fiction but thanks to a science faction, devoted to Optics, a new micro-camera has been developed which can fit on the head of a pin. The camera is an incredibly tiny 500 µm across and 10 µm thick. Considering 1µm is 1/100mm, it is no surprise this camera is only visible under the microscope. However, apart from sounding like a novel product that only James Bond would find use for, the applications of this minute development is potentially quite massive. Various medical possibilities spring to my mind, such as a smaller endoscope camera. It will be great for seeing things, (such as the inside of the body) that are difficult to see with relatively larger cameras.

[The camera reconstructed an image of Mona Lisa]

As soon as I heard about this development, I couldn’t help thinking about something that Richard Feynman (a noble prize winning physicist) mentioned in the 60’s. Feynman is notorious for his entire lecture series, but the one that stuck with me is titled “There’s plenty of room at the bottom”. In this lecture, Feynman talks about the potential within something as ordinary as pinheads. He instigates a competition for generations to come, delving into the super small world of atoms and even smaller, electrons.

I remember reading through and he proposed what seemed to me like a fantastic question: Why cannot we write the entire 24 volumes of the Encyclopaedia Britannica on the head of a pin? He attempts to talk through how you can. The key is think big! If you think about the surface of a pin head magnified 25,000 times, that is the amount of surface needed to fit the entire encyclopaedia. That roughly works out at a few atoms per letter.

One way to write super small may involve using an electron microscope. Feynman discusses how to alter the electron microscope to write; inspired by the way a cathode ray oscilloscope inside a TV produces a picture on the screen.

Did anyone ever manage to write small? Well in 1985, Tom Newman managed to write the first paragraph of A Tale of Two Cities on a pinhead using a beam of electrons. Yet, there is someone else closer to home who writes on small surfaces for a living. Graham Short is a steel engraver from Birmingham who has clients including the Queen and Richard Branson; he engraved the Lord’s Prayer on a pinhead using a fine needle under a microscope.

[The magnified engraved pin head and Graham Short at work]

If we are seeing such developments today, I wonder what the future will bring, for new advances in technology…

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“Did You Know the Midlands have the fattest people in Europe!”4th April 2010

Those were the words I was surprised to hear from our project manager here at Voice 21 HQ. He told about the revelation that the Midlands have the fattest people in Europe! Now, I know we’re not supposed to believe everything  we hear, and quite often statistics are manipulated to suit the context. However, it is quite a large claim in every sense!

I straight away popped the claim into Google and guess where the first links were from? The Sun and The Daily Mail!  Bearing in mind the “Daily Mail” tells me I live in a county where the fattest people in Europe live, I myself was a little hesitant to accept the claim at first. They base there conclusion on a study that found 29% of people living in the Midlands are classed as obese adults.  So why are the adults so obese? Is it the stress of a busy 21st century lifestyle and convenient inexpensive ready made meals that makes our country ‘the fattest’?

Skim reading various news reports, the Midlands is dubbed ‘the home of the takeaway curry’. It’s true we have a significant number of takeaway shops, but is this the key to our high obesity rates? The appealing nature of clever advertising and bright neon signs above shops, surely entice people to have a takeaway. Therefore, it is easy for many to forget where some of the takeaway ingredients are from. I could explore if takeaway food is moral – “I’ll have a battery chicken burger with oily fries,”but I’ll leave that to your conscience!

We can’t forget that the UK, compared to Europe, performed badly with obesity rates in this study. Takeaways are everywhere, flaunting its advantages as a quick and easy meal option. In moderation such indulgences are quite alright, but in excessive amounts the hefty calorie content stays with you quite literally.

However, on the other hand 71% of the people are not obese which is a significant amount of our local population. I’m sure many of you at school have the whole ‘healthy canteen mania’ at school, after Jamie Oliver brought to light canteens served too much junk food to kids, in around 2005. Also, within schools there are compulsory PE lessons which means that young people can engage in some exercise with their friends, and cookery lessons are provided, giving ideas about healthy recipes.

Here in Sandwell, I am aware of a few local leisure centres and swimming pools. However, the government recommends we do an hour’s exercise each day. Do people really have enough time in a busy 21st century lifestyle to fit in going to a leisure centre? I believe we don’t all need leisure centres and gyms to keep fit; fitting walking and jogging into your daily routine could help you to stay on top of things.

Compared to the rest of Europe, the Midlands may appear to be the fattest, but it depends on the individual. It is up to each one of us, to make sure our health doesn’t deteriorate. The long term affects of what we feed ourselves has to be considered. Not only are we putting strain on our health by ignoring the negatives, as a nation we could become a serious strain on the NHS.
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 Geek Chic  22nd Feb 2011

If any of you are doing AS level Physics then you probably have come across Feynman diagrams. When we were taught about the principle in school, I didn’t immediately think of researching the brains behind the idea. That was until my physics teacher presented me with a novel entitled “Surely You’re Joking Mr. Feynman.” Curiously, I flicked through to realise it was not a story or a full autobiography. It’s a succession of anecdotes from the Nobel Prize Winning Physicist and surprisingly produces a fascinating read.

At first glance Feynman seemed interesting; the blurb had described him as ‘an artist, safe-cracker, practical joker and storyteller’. It didn’t take me long to realise that from childhood, physics has been Richard Feynman’s passion. He was sent to fix peoples radios as a young boy, due to his knowledge of circuits. There are amusing references to his teenage years, such as his classmate’s mission to find him a suitable date for his University’s mixer. Throughout adulthood he was completely crazy and curious. I got to understand more about the personality behind one of the world’s greatest and most passionate physicists, and not just as the man who invented the diagram I’ll be tested on in my exam.

I come to think of how science has been made more accessible to the public, (compared to over a hundred years ago, only the learned could access and engage in science). Nowadays, we live in a technological age of Mp3s, camera phones and computers, all at our fingertips. Television shows such as ‘Bang Goes The Theory’ involve both practical and wild applications of science in the world, and portray in a fairly easy manor its fundamental principles, as well as the comic genius of ‘The Big Bang Theory’ on E4. Oh, and not forgetting fashionistas who went all “geek chic” and started wearing big glasses!

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What is Reality? 9th Feb 2011

My obsession of the way things work and the design of things around us, ties in nicely with my excitement for Physics. 

Therefore I recommend to you Horizon, (BBC 2) especially an episode called ‘What is Reality?’. There was a bizarre suggestion that reality is a hologram and the universe could be an illusion. It doesn’t make much sense to me. I’d never have imagined that reality could be a ‘cosmic hologram’ projected from the edge of the universe. I can’t stop thinking about it, even more so when they showed that scientists at Fermilab are putting the theory to the test! The idea of living inside a hologram sounds a little far fetched, but its one of many theories.

A cosmologist called Max Tegmark had some huge ideas about parallel worlds. He suggested that if parallel worlds do exist, they may not just be outside our universe, that they are created in our world – all around us! Why? Well in physics, particles can be in many places at the same time. To justify this, the theory of parallel worlds explains how one thing, such as a particle can be in different places at the same time. There are numerous universes and in each one the particle is in a different place. So I could be typing this blog entry in another world. Or in another, I may not even exist.

IPlayer it: http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b00xxgbn/Horizon_20102011_What_Is_Reality

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Architecture in Paris…in a snapshot 20th Jan 2011

Hi everyone! This is my first entry on my blog, so I’ve decided to share with you some of my musings about my passion, design. I love design and engineering in its many forms: architectural, product, graphic and packaging for example. I recently read a book about Parisian architecture and I really appreciated the magic of architecture. The built environment provides sound foundations for creative inspiration.

Paris is the inexorable centre of art. It’s more famously known for its monuments the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe. However, it’s full of inspiring architecture and street sculpture. Amidst the streets of central Paris lie many beautiful designs, such as the building of the Louvre Pyramid, which is the entrance for the Louvre Museum. It’s a clear glass pyramid with metal framework. When the sun shines off its transparent surface, it can absolutely blind with its brightness!

Also, the elegant building of the Assemblee Nationale stands grand. Large pillars hold up intricate design work.

Looks like a normal bridge? The bridge is looking at you…

The history behind buildings is interesting too. Over 100 years ago a competition was launched for the design for a tower in Paris, now stands the winning entry: the Eiffel tower. More bizarrely, another entry for its design was a large watering can! Yet, the Eiffel tower is almost like a point of stability in a town that’s ever changing, as well as another of Paris’ beautiful designs.

I remember designer Philippe Starck recommending the streets of Paris as a place of inspiration for his students, in the BBC 2 show Design for Life. The designer (or Alan Sugar of the show) Philippe Starck is an established designer. He has designed for IKEA and Italian designer store Alessi. In the 80s, he was also part of the design movement Memphis. One of his students found their muse in a building entangled in greenery. That building is by Patrick Blanc, called the vertical garden and is at the Musée du Quai Branly. It looked so impressive when I actually saw it, with its artful arrangement of lush plants blanketing the walls. I think Birmingham could do with one of those!

So to sum up, if you need inspiration for your own art or design, Paris is the place.

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30th September 2011
Melancholia

Director: Lars von Trier
Starring: Kirsten Dunst, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Kiefer Sutherland

As planet ‘Melancholia’ threatens to collide with Earth, pressure is put on sisters Justine and Claire’s already difficult relationships. It seems the planet may just pass by but Claire believes the end of the world is imminent. With both sisters falling into depression, can they cope? And more importantly, will the entire planet be destroyed?

Click here to view the embedded video.

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21st October 2011
Paranormal Activity 3

Director: Henry Joost & Ariel Schulman
Starring: Katie Featherston, Lauren Bittner, Sprague Grayden

It’s 1988 and young sisters, Katie and Kristi befriend an invisible entity which has taken up residence in their home. At first, it appears friendly and the girls enjoy playing games with their new friend. However things are not quite as they first appear, the situation turns and the invisible entity begins to taunt the sisters and the rest of their family.

Click here to view the embedded video.

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11th November 2011
Arthur Christmas

Director: Sarah Smith
Starring: James McAvoy, Jim Broadbent, Bill Nighy

You’ve heard of Father Christmas, but what about Arthur Christmas? Arthur Christmas is Santa’s son, and on one snowy Christmas night when one little girl’s present is missed, Arthur is sent on a mission with Grandsanta and an elf called bryony to deliver the present before Christmas morning arrives, but the question is, can they do it?

Click here to view the embedded video.

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18th November 2011
The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 1

Director: Bill Condon
Starring: Kristen Stewart, Taylor Lautner, Robert Pattinson

In the next part of this highly anticipated chapter Bella and Edward are due to be married. But it’s not that simple. With Jacob heart-broken and the Quilette and The Volturi angered at the news that Bella and Edward are expecting parents, they began to close in. Their unborn child poses all kind of threats to both the werewolves and the vampires, who knows what it could be capable of.

Click here to view the embedded video.

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2nd December 2011
The Thing

Director: Matthijs van Heijningen Jr.
Starring: Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Joel Edgerton

At an Antarctica research site they make a major discovery. It seems an extraterrestrial spacecraft has crashed and is buried in the ice. The team uncovers a creature, something like nothing they’ve ever seen before. When the creature escapes from an ice prison the team discovers the creature has the power to mimic any life form it absorbs. Suddenly the team are fighting for their lives and trying desperately to stop the creature reaching the rest of civilization.

Click here to view the embedded video.

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16th December 2011
Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows

Director: Guy Ritchie
Starring: Robert Downey .Jr, Jude Law, Jared Harris, Noomi Rapace

The mysterious Sherlock Holmes returns in this adventure accompanied by his sidekick and friend Dr. Watson. Attempting this time to try to outwit and defeat their biggest enemy of all: Super-Villain, Moriarty. Moriarty’s schemes and cunning plans lead the pair all over Europe, where they meet a gypsy who quickly joins them on their adventure. There is plenty of twist and turns, but at the end of the day who will come out on top, Holmes or Moriarty?

Click here to view the embedded video.

MAKING NEW FRIENDS

Hi Martin, this is very usual for kids to move from school to school not knowing anyone there, sometimes children can get bullied for this but no need to worry as long as you’re being yourself and don’t give in to peer pressure as sometimes people feel the need to prove themselves to be ‘cool’ and if other kids say you have to do this to fit in then they are not worth your time.

It’s hard to start going to a new school. Everything seems to be so weird, and you don’t know which place to go for your own classes. Making new friends can be hard too, because everyone seems to have made their own cliques. However, you can integrate into your new environment. Just try to have as much fun as in your old school, one way is to ask someone “What’s your name?” or ”Could you show me the way to the cantine?”  You can also ask if they have seen a certain movie or show. If they ignore you just go on to another girl/guy.

You may not be the only new pupil and at the very least, you’ll have one thing in common: you’re both in an unfamiliar environment. The good news is if you are starting at a new school in start up year, almost everyone is new! Since being new is something that you all have in common, making new friends shouldn’t be that hard. Talk about your old school, your new school, your opinions, grades, teachers, etc.

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HOW TO PREVENT SPOTS

Hey, I have started to get lots of spots around my face but I’ve recently just started to get them on my back and arms as well, how do I stop these and prevent them from going anywhere else?
Jason (14), West Bromwich

It seems to me that you may have Acne; this is a common skin condition in which spots develop and can become inflamed. They appear mostly on the face and neck, but also on the shoulders, back and elsewhere on the body. In some spots the opening of the gland is so tiny that air cannot reach the sebum, so these spots don’t become blackheads but stay as whiteheads. These are more common and are likely to become red and inflamed, due to bacteria commonly found harmlessly on the skin surface which thrive on the sebum and multiply in the sebaceous gland, triggering an inflammatory reaction.

Common triggers for acne include:
- Exams, new relationships and other forms of stress
- The time just before a period starts
- Pregnancy
- Certain cosmetics and medicines

Acne affects young adults the most, but can also be a problem for older people. It usually starts in puberty, between ages 12 and 14, when increased levels of the male-type sex hormones androgens (girls have these as well as boys) stimulate the sebaceous glands to increase production of sebum.

More than 90 per cent of teenagers have acne. And I wouldn’t worry too much about it. There are two goals for treatment – to reduce the number of inflamed spots in order to prevent skin scarring and psychological distress, and to prevent new spots from forming. To achieve the aim of this treatment, healthy skin needs a good intake of vitamins A, C and E, zinc and at least eight glasses of water a day (all of us should do this whether or not we have spots).

It’s possible to gently squeeze blackheads and whiteheads to unblock the sebaceous glands but you should take care making sure your hands are clean and that you don’t exert too much pressure (there’s a risk that you will aggravate infection and damage the skin leading to worse scarring). If you are very aggressive with squeezing you may push infection and inflammatory chemicals deeper into the skin, making cysts and permanent scars more likely. But please go and see your GP for more advice.

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WEIGHT PROBLEMS

Hi, I just recently left school/sixth form and discovered that I am rapidly putting on weight. I am sticking to the training scheme I learnt in PE but it doesn’t seem to be working and I am worried about being obese. Can you help me?
Craig (19), Wednesbury

The problem may be your diet, you could work out all day but then go to a fast food restaurant and it could have an affect on the way you exercise. Obesity is caused by two simple factors – an unhealthy diet (typically too rich in sugar and fats and not enough fibre and carbohydrate) and not doing enough exercise to burn off the calories consumed.

Simple activities, such as climbing the stairs instead of using lifts, morning and evening walk in the park and swimming, can bring about tremendous changes in your lifestyle. Such activities will not only help you burn excess fat, but also help you stay active. Start doing light to moderate exercises for thirty minutes, five times a week. Switch over to the tough exercises, once you have gained stamina and strength. You may also join a health club or gym and socialize with like-minded individuals. Monitor your weight regularly. Weigh yourself at least once a week. This will help you figure out how much extra flab you have lost by doing simple activities or workout. In case you are being inactive and not eating healthy, you will be aware of the weight gain at an early stage. This will prevent your weight gain from being too much to get off.

Drinking lots of water will help your body detoxify all the impurities present in the system. So make sure you drink plenty of water everyday. Having a glass of warm water in the morning, with half a lemon squeezed in it, is also a good idea. Remember, water cleanses and rejuvenates your skin as well. One of the prerequisites of staying healthy is avoiding junk foods. The smart way to stay away from junk food is not to buy them at all! Avoid frequenting the fast food chains. Keep junk food out of your house as well. If you really like stuff like pizza and burgers, indulge in them not more than once or twice a month.

Do not cut any of the three meals per day. Rather, divide them into small meals, stretched over a gap of 2-3 hours. At the same time, cut off high-calorie snacks in between the meals. Eat small portions of food and do not gulp them down. Do not stuff yourself with food when you are not hungry. Eat only when your body signals you to have food. Eat slowly because the stomach takes some time to feel ‘full’.

Your diet should be balanced, with fruits, vegetables and whole grains included in it. An obese adult should have at least five servings of low-sugar fruits and vegetables on a day. A vegetable serving shall include one cup of raw or one and half cup of cooked vegetables. One piece of fresh fruit and one and half cup of canned fruit are included in a serving of fruit. But you should avoid fruits and vegetables that are high in calories such as a mango.

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FOOD POISONING

Hi, I went to the chip shop the other day and I have been sick for the past 2 days. Am I allergic to their oil or something because I am fine at other chip shop’s. Or do you think it’s poor hygiene?
Helen (19), Smethwick

Hello Helen, you may have a case of food poisoning. Cases of food poisoning are on the rise, with the most common culprit being poor food hygiene. There are simple ways you can prevent it. Micro-organisms enter the body in one of two ways: 1. In the food – the food isn’t cooked thoroughly, so the micro-organisms aren’t killed off, often the case with barbecued food.  2. On the food – the person preparing the food doesn’t wash their hands before handling the food, for example, Campylobacter infection is the most common cause of food poisoning seen by GPs. It likes to live in milk and poultry. Other common causes include salmonella. Some take a few hours to cause symptoms, others a few days. Serious infections with E. coli are, fortunately, uncommon.

Things to do;

- Always wash your hands thoroughly before preparing food, after going to the toilet and after handling pets
- Keep kitchen work surfaces clean
- Make sure food is defrosted completely before cooking
- Keep pets away from food
- Ensure food is cooked thoroughly before eating. Meat shouldn’t have any pink bits
- Serve reheated food piping hot
- Keep raw meat and fish covered and store at the bottom of the fridge
- Store all perishable foods at 5°C (41°F) or less
- Keep raw food covered
- Rinse fruit and vegetables under running water before eating
- Throw away any food that’s past its use-by date, doesn’t smell right and/or has fungus on it

Most infections last 24 to 48 hours, during which time vomiting and diarrhoea is taking its toll. To prevent dehydration, drink plenty of cooled boiled water and use rehydration powders if the symptoms continue. Sometimes antibiotic treatment is necessary; this can be determined by testing for the micro-organism responsible. It’s especially important anyone whose work involves handling or preparing food stays away from work while they have symptoms to avoid infecting others. They must also notify, and seek advice from, their local environmental health department.

If someone suspects that food bought from, or eaten in, a specific shop, takeaway or restaurant is responsible, they should also inform their local environmental health department, so food hygiene standards can be investigated. Anyway, if your symptoms persist, please go and see your GP.

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TRAVEL SICKNESS

Hi, I’m Claire and every time I go on the bus with my friends or in the car with my family I get really sick, how can I stop this?
Claire (18), Cradley Heath

Hello Claire, this is an extremely common symptom of travel sickness and you can easily get tablets in your local chemist to prevent you from feeling like this. Travel, or motion, sickness occurs when repetitive small movements mean the brain is sent mixed messages. The eyes say one thing about the position of the body, while the delicate inner ear balance mechanisms are reporting something different.

This confusion usually results in feelings of nausea, sometimes vomiting and becoming sweaty. Children suffer more often than adults and, fortunately, many grow out of it as they get older and learn to overcome the problem.

It’s not always motion that triggers the sickness however. Smells, such as those of food or petrol, anxiety that it’s going to happen may ensure it does and focusing on a nearby object, such as trying to read a book or a map, can make people feel queasy

As well as the advice above, the following can help to reduce the chance of travel sickness:
- Avoiding heavy meals and alcohol before travelling.
- Keeping still with eyes closed.
- Anti-sickness medicines from the pharmacist. These should be taken before travel according to the instructions so they have time to be absorbed by the body.
- Ginger or peppermint remedies. Ginger can be taken as a biscuit, tea or in crystallised form, while peppermint can be sucked as a sweet or taken as a tea.
- Acupressure. This can be applied using a wristband or by pressing your finger against the middle of the inner wrist about three finger widths above the crease where the wrist joins the hand. 

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BLISTERS

Hello, my name is Alex, I have a blister on my foot and it really hurts. How do I get rid of it and how can I prevent it?
Alex (16) Wednesbury

Blisters are very common and the usual cause of getting them on your foot is from your shoes constantly rubbing against your foot, causing a raised bump in the skin. When a blister is formed, fluid from blood vessels leak into the skin. It then collects beneath the outer layer of skin.

Blisters are a common and usually short-lived problem that most people have now and then. As new skin grows beneath the blister, the fluid contained within it is slowly absorbed, and the skin on top dries and peels off. Hence the blister heals naturally and rarely needs treatment.

Blisters can also form as a reaction to certain medications, including some antibiotics, and there are a number of rarer blistering skin conditions where the body’s immune system attacks cells in the skin.

To treat it, never burst the blister to release the fluid because the skin acts as a barrier against infection. When the skin of the blister breaks of its own accord or as a result of minor trauma, a sterile dry dressing should be used to cover it, which protects the area from infection until it’s healed.

If the blister becomes red, hot, filled with pus, or painful then medical advice should be sought, because treatment for possible infection may be needed. Recurrent blisters, blisters in a wide-spread rash unrelated to friction, or blisters with other dodgy symptoms should all be checked by a doctor because they may have a sign of a more complex condition that needs investigation.

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CONSTIPATION

Hey I’m Sam, I have an embarrassing problem and it is bringing me down. I keep getting sharp stomach pains and I think it may be constipation. I’ve been going to the toilet less often and what can I do to stop it ?
Sam (17)  Great Barr

Many people are embarrassed to admit it, but as many as 14 million people in the UK suffer from constipation. But what does being constipated mean, how can you get things moving again and when should you seek medical advice?

In general, constipation is when someone goes to the toilet less often than usual, or when it’s difficult to poo. It’s a change from a person’s usual pattern of bowel opening.

Some people go twice a day, some three times a week; the pattern is different for all of us. Although most people believe constipation means not going at all, medically speaking it just means going less often than you normally do.

The symptoms include:

-going less often than usual
-having to strain to pass a stool (poo)
-pain when passing a stool
-passing a stool that are dry and hard, like rabbit pellets
-a feeling of incomplete bowel emptying

Sometimes straining may be ineffective and no stool is passed. People with constipation may quickly feel full when eating. Bloating, nausea, even vomiting may occur. Straining may cause piles and rectal bleeding. Common causes of constipation include:

-Lack of liquid
-Lack of dietary fibre
-Stress
-Ignoring the urge to go to the toilet.

Other causes include some medications (such as painkillers), some medical conditions (for example, irritable bowel syndrome) and changes in environment (going on holiday).

What’s the treatment?

Take regular exercise, drink at least eight glasses of water a day and eat more fibre, including bran cereals, wholegrain bread and rice, and at least five portions of fruit and vegetables a day. Never ignore the urge to go to the toilet. Try to keep stress to a minimum. If symptoms continue, the best thing to do is see your doctor.

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DEHYDRATION

I have a problem and no idea what the answer is. I always have a dry mouth and lips, and my eyes are always sore. I have frequent headaches and I’m always feeling tired and I never have any energy to do anything fun with my friends like football.
Uzman (17) West Bromwich

Well Uzman, it could be that you may have dehydration. You have all the symptoms for this problem such as;

- Dry mouth, eyes and lips
- Headache
- Tiredness
- Dizziness or light-headedness

Most people get dehydrated from time to time, and usually it’s easily corrected. But occasionally, when a lack of fluids puts the body under additional strain, it can have tragic consequences. Water makes up around 70 per cent of the human body. It’s important for digestion, joint function, healthy skin and removal of waste products.

Dehydration occurs when more fluid is lost from the body than is taken in. This causes an imbalance in important minerals, such as sodium and potassium, which are required for muscle and nerve function. If there is a one per cent or greater loss in body weight because of fluid loss, dehydration occurs. This may be mild, moderate or severe, depending on the amount lost.

Around two-thirds of the water we need comes from drinks. Up to one-third comes from food (tomatoes, cucumber, fish and poultry are good sources). Some is also provided as a result of chemical reactions within the body.

The average adult loses around 2.5 litres of water every day through the normal processes of breathing, sweating and waste removal. If we lose more fluid than usual this tips the balance towards dehydration. Lifestyle factors such as drinking too much alcohol, exercise, being in a hot environment or being too busy to drink liquid can also lead to dehydration.

The key to avoiding dehydration is to eat and drink enough. The Food Standards Agency recommends drinking at least six to eight glasses (around two litres) of water every day. In addition, it recommends drinking semi-skimmed milk, diluted fruit squash and diluted fruit juice to contribute to the recommended daily intake of fluid.

People living or working in hot climates or taking part in sports or other strenuous physical activities, or who are unwell with vomiting and diarrhoea, should increase their fluid intake. For every hour of exercise, it’s suggested you drink an additional litre of fluid, more if exercising in a warm environment. Remember to see your doctor if symptoms persist.

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EAR HEALTH

Hello, I’m Kate and I keep getting ear ache, where does it come from and how do I get rid of it?
Kate (15) Tipton

Hi Kate, the most common ear problems are not caused by disease but by people placing all sorts of things in them and risking damage. One of the most common complaints seen by doctors is a blocked ear, usually caused by wax that has been pushed into the ear by a cotton bud.

As well as the blocked sensation, waxy ears can reduce hearing, cause a ringing sound and occasionally pain. There’s no need to clean your ears with a cotton bud. The ear has its own internal cleaning mechanism. Fats and oils in the ear canal trap any particles and transport them out of the ear as wax. This falls out of the ear without us noticing.

When we try to clean the ear, this wax gets pushed back and compacted. There’s also no need to dry ears with a towel, cotton buds or tissue paper. Let them dry naturally or gently use a hair-drier on low heat.

Olive oil can help to soften the wax and enable it to come out. Apply two drops in each ear twice a day. Wax-softening drops can also be bought from a pharmacist. Sometimes, the wax needs to be syringed out by a doctor or practice nurse, but you can always ask about your condition at your local pharmacy.

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TEENAGE DRINKING

Hey! I like to have fun with my friends but they have recently started drinking alcohol and so have I. Is this bad for my health and should I stop?           
Sarah (15) Rowley

Some teens can get peer pressured into doing something that they don’t want to do, things like smoking or drinking, but remember these activities at your age are against the law!

Heavy drinking over the years is a risk factor for certain cancers and raised blood pressure which can contribute to heart disease. So I advise you to stop because it may not affect you now but in the future.

“Binge” drinking every now and then tends to be far more harmful to health than drinking a moderate amount occasionally. It has also been suggested that teenagers are more likely to have casual sex if they are regular drinkers which can result to teen pregnancy or contacting an STI. Do you want a baby at 15?

Doctors are worried about an apparent increase in the number of young teenagers who are drinking heavily. While many of the more serious health effects of drinking affect those who have been drinking for many years, it is feared that alcohol abuse during the formative years sets a pattern for later life.

My advice to you is to stop and if you are getting peer pressured then try to say “NO”, and try to help your friends too. Legally you should not be drinking until you are 18.

Young people (under 18s) with alcohol problems and/or drug concerns can call DECCA on 0845838 5317 for advice and support.

If you are 12-15 years old then check out www.teenlifecheck.co.uk, and for more information and support for all ages then visit www.ourguideto.co.uk

7th July
Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows (pt.2)

 Director: David Yates

Cast: Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson, Ralph Fiennes, Helena Bonham Carter, Alan Rickman

The end is now near and the ultimate battle will clash between good and evil like never before. But only one can survive. Harry, Ron and Hemoine have destroyed three of Voldemort’s six horcruxes but will they be able to defeat him and truly find out about the significance off the Deathly Hallows. Now Voldemort is stronger then ever with the Elder Wand in his power, his sinister ways could determine the fate of the wizarding world for the rest of eternity, with only Dumbledore’s army leaded by the chosen one to fight back. The epic battle is here and life as they know it will never be the same again. Secrets will come out, lives will be lost and history will leave its mark once again.

Click here to view the embedded video.

22^nd July
Cars 2

Directors: John Lasseter, Brad Lewis

Cast: Owen Wilson, Larry the Cable Guy, Michael Caine

Lightening McQueen is back in this fun-filled sequel. McQueen and his best buddy Mater take on the world in this all new adventure when both pals head overseas to Japan to compete in the World Grand Prix. But McQueen now has all new competitors to fight with and poor little Mater gets into a little adventure off his own, jetting off around the world. Yet Lightening McQueen has to choose between fame and friendship. With great humour and a bumpy ride along the way we see how this heartfelt friendship stays intact.

Click here to view the embedded video.

22^nd July
Horrible Bosses

Director: Seth Gordon

Cast: Jason Bateman, Charlie Day, Jason Sudeikis, Jennifer Aniston, Colin Farrell, Kevin Spacey, Jamie Foxx

Nick, Kurt and Dale are three men whose lives would certainly be better without their intolerable, horrible bosses. So these three friends devise the mischievous foolproof plan with the help of too many drinks and a hustling ex-con to get rid of their bosses, permanently. However as we know not all conspiracies go to plan as these three see with their hilarious journey to some very disastrous results.

Click here to view the embedded video.

29^th July 2011
Captain America – The First Avenger

Director: Joe Johnston

Cast: Chris Evans, Hugo Weaving, Stanley Tucci

After being deemed unworthy of being an officer Steve Rogers takes on a top secret research project that turns him in to… Captain America! He seems be doing a good job as he is dedicated to defending the Americas ideals but not all is at it seems especially if someone is waiting and watching to make their perfect move…

Click here to view the embedded video.

5^th August 2011
Super 8

Director: J.J. Abrams

Cast: Elle Fanning, Amanda Michalka and Kyle Chandler

After a mysterious train crash all of a sudden occurs a group of friends from a small town set in the summer of 1979, start to notice that there are weird happenings going on around them so they investigate the creepy on goings, are these group of friends in serious danger are they just about to face the biggest threat of their lives?

Click here to view the embedded video.

5^th August 2011
Mr Popper’s Penguins

Director: Mark Waters

Cast: Jim Carrey, Carla Gugino, Angela Lansbury

What would you do if you inherited six penguins ‘? Yes, penguins. Well you would find out what Mr Popper (Jim Carrey) would do if he did in this all new family comedy which is about to hit your screens on 5^th august. In this fun-filled comedy, Tommy Popper the little child has a world travelling father who he is very excited to talk too, now in the 21^st century little Tommy is known as Mr Popper , a very successful real estate developer living the high life in New York. But his world turns upside down when he receives these northern delights, literally turning his world into a winter wonderland. Based on the 1938 book written by Richard and Florence Atwater, called the same title ‘’Mr Popper’s Penguins’’, this film is a great laughter filled film for the whole family to enjoy.

Click here to view the embedded video.

12^th August 2011
Rise Of The Planet Of The Apes

Director: Rupert Wyatt

Cast: James Franco, Andy Serkis, Freida Pinto

The origin story is set on planet earth, San Francisco where apes are discovered amongst mankind, scientists feel they have the need to experiment on these animals but don’t realize its their fate to be this way but catastrophe strikes when apes soon start becoming more intelligent due to the experiments and soon scientists soon become to realize they are messing with the wrong species.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Before we dive into our suggestions on how your time on the internet may be best spent we have a word of caution. Do not provide information that may put you or anyone else in danger. Check your privacy settings on social networking sites and make sure you know how much of your information is available and who it is available to. Also, even though status updates have become broadcasters of our internal dialogue and therapists to some, no one really needs to know if you’re in the toilet. Should you not fall into this category and you post information about your whereabouts, again use your judgement and be careful you’re not sending an invitation to stalkers.

Puzzles and games

It’s always great to find a new website, one that is captivating, unique or perhaps has some inspiring content, or just is a great killer of boredom. I found an unusual method of combating boredom in the workplace (or at school). It’s mainly aimed at those who want to show they’re boss/teacher/hierarchy that they are working, without actually doing work. Games are hidden within the page. So that if your boss (or even teacher) checks what your doing it looks like work. By Pamilla Sidhu

It was through the QI website I found a terribly addictive puzzle recommended called “Red Remover”

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Unusual art

I have found a few sites that gather interesting and unusual art and design work from unknown artists. “It’s Nice That” scour the net to find rather interesting visual arts. I remember discovering an artist called Dominic Wilcox through this site. He designed something he calls the “Xylophone Bin.” I found his fairly unorthodox work thought provoking and aesthetically stimulating. Take a look! By Pamilla Sidhu

http://www.dominicwilcox.com/

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Fashion faux pas
 
It’s surprising how charismatic some of the pictures on this blog “My Parents Are Awesome” are. Nonetheless, it is reasonably entertaining to see the fashion faux pas of yesteryear. The Blog itself states “Before the fanny packs and Andrea Bocelli concerts, your parents (and grandparents) were once free- wheeling, fashion-forward, and super awesome.” By Pamilla Sidhu

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Diary of a badman

Click here to view the embedded video.

Diary of a badman is a series of unbelievably hilarious youtube videos based on a British Muslim’s life that makes fun out of typical Asian ways. This comedy series is made by and stars Humza Arshad and is extremely popular with the youth of today. There are seven videos to this comedy sequel and each has had up to two million views! Since the making of these amazing youtube hits Humza has had some amazing opportunities including dancing with Mumzy Stranger (BritAsia musician) during one of his shows. The first video made was based on Humza and his mother’s relationship and how she constantly beats him and how he disrespects her, this video got 2,512,496 views! Other videos focus on fights, girls and religious festivals (Eid). The latest video (diary of a badman 7) is based on arranged marriage and got 645,642 views but was only released recently. Humza keeps his fans updated through his twitter page on which he announces the dates of the next releases and keeps his fans entertained through his funny remarks. Diary of a badman 8 is currently still being made so watch out for the brand new laugh out loud comedy! By Nikita Gaur

Police

This website is of interest for people wishing to find crime rates and crime statistics in their local neighbourhood. To find the crime rate, the user must type in their postcode. The user will then be shown the number of crimes reported. Not only can the user view crime rates in their town, they can also discover useful advice in order to prevent crime. I found useful links to the Directgov website with useful information to prevent burglary and car theft. Furthermore, I clicked on the get involved tab which made known the times and dates of police surgeries. These surgeries enable members of the local community to meet police officers to discuss local crime issues. I would certainly recommend visiting this website, it’s very easy to navigate around and provides useful information about how to prevent crime. By Thomas Harris

Vogue

My first recommendation will be the Vogue website and especially the Beauty Trends. They can be a good source of inspiration for make-up styles. They are taken from trends sparked on the catwalks in different fashion capitals and are often applicable for everyday wear. For example Red Lips, which is an Autumn/Winter trend, can be as striking or subtle as you want depending on the occasion. By Danai Makwiramiti

Mystery Guitar Man

For those who like short, sharp bursts of entertainment I would recommend the Mystery Guitar Man and he broadcasts his videos on YouTube. He mixes his music skills, with clever video editing and comedy to produce entertaining videos. One of my favourites so far is called Literal Instruments. By Danai Makwiramiti

Hypem

My third and final recommendation is www.hypem.com. It brings you a collection of the latest music compiled from blogs all around the world. It’s a great way of discovering new music and hearing a diverse range of opinions on different artists from people who really love music. By Danai Makwiramiti

Social Networking

There are many social networking sites available like facebook, bebo and twitter etc. In my opinion, I would recommend a person should use facebook because it’s really user friendly and certainly most popular. For example, facebook has a chat facility and users are able to submit photos and receive comments from their friends. I checked out Bebo as well but found the website slow and had many adverts – which were quite annoying! I would not recommend Bebo to anyone wishing to use a social networking site. By Thomas Harris

Games

There are loads of free online games at yahoo games. The website has many games including sports games, action, strategy, puzzle etc. Be aware that some games you may have to pay for though! The website also has reviews of the latest video games. Also, there are walkthroughs, cheats and news available for free! I also found www.miniclip.com has many awesome games, which are free to play! Likewise, miniclip has all kinds of games to suit different types of people and users can interact with other gamers. By Thomas Harris

Books

Amazon.co.uk has many books to buy either brand new or second hand. Likewise, people are able to purchase new and second hand books from ebay.co.uk. The main difference between these two websites is that eBay is an online auction website whereas users on amazon.co.uk simply pay for the product they wish to buy. Naturally, on eBay the person with the highest bid gets the item. Although, eBay has a feature called “buy it now,” where users can simply buy a product like on Amazon.  By Thomas Harris

Teenage Advice

I found that www.connexions-direct.com has specialist teenage advice for all kinds of issues concerning money, relationships and careers etc. There are also useful contacts and teens can phone or email for specialist advice. In addition, BBC switch has online TV and radio shows with plenty of teenage advice. These can be viewed on BBC iPlayer for free. By Thomas Harris

I hope your internet experience will now be better rounded and in case anyone was wondering, being on Facebook as well as Twitter does not equate diversity

The West Bromwich Youth Council launched in December 2009,  the new group are the predecessor to what was the Greets Green Youth Forum. As West Bromwich enters its massive regeneration it is important that young people have a voice regarding the changes and the future of the town.  The WBYC is here to ‘increase the volume of youth participation’.

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MEMBERS OF FRIAR PARK YOUTH CLUB WIN LOCAL AWARDS

Members of Friar Park Youth Club have won 2 awards at the Celebration of Diversity and Community Action Big Event held at Friar Park Millenium Centre on Saturday 9^th April.  Leanne Varden and James Clarke won the Friar Park Community Champion Awards for Student of the Year & Volunteer of the Year for their commitement and dedication over the past year working in the community.  The awards which is an annual event organised by the Friar Park Millenium Centre brings together people from different backgrounds and celebrates the acheivements of local people in Friar Park.

“I am really chuffed with my award and have been a volunteer at Friar Park Youth Club for many years now and enjoyed my time their supporting young people”
Leanne Varden (Winner of Volunteer Award)

“I have just completed my Arts A levels at Walsall College and I am looking forward to a life being an artist.  I love creative arts and want to pursue it as a career and become a succesful artist” 
James Clarke (Winner of Student Award)

“I am pleased with both Leanne & James who have been good role models to other young people in Friar Park.  They have shown with dedication and commitment for what they enjoy doing, can bring them recogniton in the community.  This is a good example to other young people in Friar Park who want to pursue their goals and dreams.  As a Youth Service we are commited to ensuring young people are supported in the transition from adolescence to adulthood.”  Abdul Kahar (Senior Youth Officer, West Bromwich & Wednesbury)  

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YOUNG ROLE MODELS HONOURED WITH DIANA CERTIFICATE OF EXCELLENCE

Sandwell Young People Services (Centre Based Team) is delighted to announce that West Bromwich Youth Council have been honoured with the Diana Certificate of Excellence.

The Diana Certificate of Excellence recognises the outstanding contribution of young people aged 12-18, who work together in groups to improve their communities, organisation or schools.  The certificate rewards those who go above and beyond to benefit others; by raising money for charity, or campaigning on a local issue or mentoring younger children in their schools or youth groups.

West Bromwich Youth Council members have been chosen for the Award because of their commitment and work over the past year.  The West Bromwich Youth Council has been involved in organising and delivering the:

- West Bromwich Youth Council Launch event at Public, West Bromwich
- Stand Up Sandwell (Community Cohesion Event) at West Bromwich Town Hall
- West Bromwich World Cup Festival
- West Bromwich Youth Activities Leaflet, distributed to young people in West Bromwich
- Involved with Sandwell Scrutiny & Sandwell Communities Unit around Anti Social Behaviour
- Drama production with Race Equality Sandwell delivered at the Public
- & many more activities and initiatives over the past year.

“We at Sandwell Young People Services, Centre Based Team are very proud of our Diana Certificate of Excellence holders.  This award will encourage them to continue their work and inspire others to get involved.  The young people truly value this award and they are delighted to be recognised.”

Maggie Turner, Chief Executive of the Diana Award, says: “The Diana Certificate of Excellence is for young people who make a positive change within their communities or schools.  It identifies positive young role models that challenge negative stereotypes of young people, and encourages them to develop their full potential.  There will be many more groups of young people working within communities and schools across the UK that deserve this award and we welcome nominations.”

To make a nomination for the Diana Award visit www.diana-award.org.uk

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Anyone wishing to join the West Bromwich Council should call Abdul Kahar on 07973550565

The Hangover Part 2

Director: Todd Phillips

Cast: Zach Galifianakis, Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms, Juliette Lewis, Justin Bartha, Jamie Chung

In the follow-up to the record-breaking hit comedy “The Hangover,” Phil (Bradley Cooper), Stu (Ed Helms), Alan (Zach Galifianakis) and Doug (Justin Bartha) travel to exotic Thailand for Stu’s wedding. After the unforgettable bachelor party in Las Vegas, Stu is taking no chances and has opted for a safe, subdued pre-wedding brunch. However, things don’t always go as planned. What happens in Vegas may stay in Vegas, but what happens in Bangkok can’t even be imagined.

Click here to view the embedded video.

June 1^st

X-Men: First Class

Director: Matthew Vaughn

Cast: Jennifer Lawrence, James McAvoy, January Jones, Michael Fassbender, Nicholas Hoult, Rose Byrne, Kevin Bacon

Before Charles Xavier and Erik Lensherr took the names Professor X and Magneto, they were two young men discovering their powers for the first time. Before they were archenemies, they were closest of friends, working together, with other Mutants (some familiar, some new), to stop the greatest threat the world has ever known. In the process, a rift between them opened, which began the eternal war between Magneto’s Brotherhood and Professor X’s X-MEN.

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June 10^th

Kung Fu Panda 2

Director: Jennifer Yuh

Cast: Angelina Jolie, Seth Rogen, Gary Oldman, Jack Black, Jackie Chan, Jean-Claude Van Damme

Po is now living his dream as The Dragon Warrior, protecting the Valley of Peace alongside his friends and fellow kung fu masters, The Furious Five – Tigress, Crane, Mantis, Viper and Monkey. But Po’s awesome new life is threatened by the emergence of a formidable villain, who plans to use a secret, unstoppable weapon to conquer China and destroy kung fu.

It is up to Po and The Furious Five to journey across China to face this threat and vanquish it. But how can Po stop a weapon that can stop kung fu? He must look to his past and uncover the secrets of his mysterious origins; only then will he be able to unlock the strength he needs to succeed.

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June 17^th

Green lantern

Director: Martin Campbell

Cast: Ryan Reynolds, Blake Lively, Peter Sarsgaard, Mark Strong, Temuera Morrison, Jon Tenney, Tim Robbins

In this universe, a small but powerful force has existed for centuries. Protectors of peace and justice, they are called the Green Lantern Corps. A brotherhood of warriors sworn to keep intergalactic order, each Green Lantern wears a ring that grants him superpowers.

But when a new enemy called Parallax threatens to destroy the balance of power in the Universe, their fate and the fate of Earth lie in the hands of their newest recruit, the first human ever selected: Hal Jordan.

Hal is a gifted and cocky test pilot, but the Green Lanterns have little respect for humans, who have never harnessed the infinite powers of the ring before. But Hal is clearly the missing piece to the puzzle, and along with his determination and willpower, he has one thing no member of the Corps has ever had: humanity.

With the encouragement of fellow pilot and childhood sweetheart Carol Ferris (Blake Lively), if Hal can quickly master his new powers and find the courage to overcome his fears, he may prove to be not only the key to defeating Parallax…he will become the greatest Green Lantern of all.

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June 24^th

Bad Teacher

Director: Jake Kasdan

Cast: Cameron Diaz, Lucy Punch, Jason Segel, Justin Timberlake, Phyllis Smith, John Michael Higgins

A comedy centered around foul-mouthed, junior high teacher Ms Halsey (Diaz) who, after being dumped by her sugar daddy, is on the look out for a new man’s bank account to rest on. Enter Mr Delacorte (Timberlake) a hot new substitute teacher with plenty of family money who is well-loved by everyone. Ms Halsey definitely has her work cut out chasing the dorky, yet hot teacher.

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July 1^st

Transformers: Dark of the Moon

Director: Michael Bay

Cast: Shia LaBeouf, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Josh Duhamel, Hugo Weaving, John Malkovich, Patrick Dempsey, Frances McDormand

The Autobots Bumblebee, Ratchet, Ironhide and Sideswipe led by Optimus Prime, are back in action, taking on the evil Decepticons, who are determined to avenge their defeat. In this new movie, the Autobots and Decepticons become involved in a perilous space race between the U.S. and Russia, and once again human Sam Witwicky has to come to the aid of his robot friends. There’s new characters too, including a new villain in the form of Shockwave, a longtime “Transformers” character who rules Cybertron while the Autobots and Decepticons battle it out on Earth.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Limitless

Director: Neil Burger

Cast: Robert De Niro, Bradley Cooper, Abbie Cornish, Anna Friel, Johnny Whitworth

Limitless is an action packed thriller about out of work writer Eddie Morra (Cooper), who takes an experimental drug that allows him to use 100 percent of his mind. An old friend introduces Eddie to MDT, a designer drug that makes him laser focused and more confident than any man alive. Everything Eddie has read, heard or seen is instantly organized and available to him.

As the former nobody rises to the top of the financial world, he draws the attention of business mogul Carl Van Loon (De Niro), who sees the potential to make billions. But the side effects jeopardize his meteoric rise. With a dwindling stash and hit men who will eliminate him to get the MDT, Eddie must stay wired long enough to avoid capture and fulfil his destiny.

April 1^st

Hop

Cast: Kaley Cuoco, Russell Brand, James Marsden, Elizabeth Perkins, Chelsea Handler

Blending state-of-the-art animation with live action, Hop tells the comic tale of Fred (Marsden), an out-of-work slacker who accidentally runs over the Easter Bunny (Brand) while driving home and must take him in as he recovers. As Fred struggles with the world’s worst house guest, both will learn what it takes to finally grow up, as Fred is pressed to partner with Bunny to save Easter.

April 8th

Rio

Voice cast: Anne Hathaway, Jesse Eisenberg, Jamie Foxx, Jemaine Clement, Leslie Mann, Jake T. Austin, George Lopez

Blu (Eisenberg) is a domesticated macaw from small town Minnesota, who is the last of his kind. But when scientists learn that another macaw was spotted in South America and that the macaw, Jewel (Hathaway) is female, they take him out of Minnesota and send him to Rio de Janeiro to meet her.

While there, he learns to confront his fear of flying in order to win her heart. Along the way, they get kidnapped by poachers who want to sell them to get a fortune. After they escape, they try to avoid the thieves and the thieves’ pet cockatoo Nigel (Clement) with help from Rafael, a wise Toucan (Lopez); Luiz the bulldog (Tracy Morgan) Pedro a redhead bird (Will.i.am) and other friends.

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April 15^th

Your Highness

Cast: Natalie Portman, James Franco, Danny McBride, Zooey Deschanel, Damian Lewis

Thadeous (McBride) has spent his life watching his perfect older brother Fabious (Franco) embark upon valiant journeys and win the hearts of his people. Tired of being passed over for adventure, adoration and the throne, he’s settled for a life of wizard’s weed, hard booze and easy maidens. But when Fabious’ bride-to-be, Belladonna (Zooey Deschanel), gets kidnapped by the evil wizard Leezar (Justin Theroux), the king gives his deadbeat son an ultimatum: Man up and help rescue her or get cut off.

Half-heartedly embarking upon his first quest, Thadeous joins Fabious to trek across the perilous outlands and free the princess. Joined by Isabel (Portman), an elusive warrior with a dangerous agenda of her own, the brothers must vanquish horrific creatures and traitorous knights before they can reach Belladonna. If Thadeous can find his inner hero, he can help his brother prevent the destruction of his land.

April 29^th

Fast Five

Cast: Dwayne Johnson, Vin Diesel, Paul Walker, Jordana Brewster, Elsa Pataky, Tyrese Gibson

The fifth film in The Fast and the Furious film series sees former cop Brian O’Conner (Walker) partner with ex-con Dom Toretto (Diesel) on the opposite side of the law. Since Brian and Mia Toretto broke Dom out of custody, they’ve blown across many borders to elude authorities. Now backed into a corner in Rio de Janeiro, they must pull one last job in order to gain their freedom.

As they assemble their elite team of top racers, the unlikely allies know their only shot of getting out for good means confronting the corrupt businessman who wants them dead. But he’s not the only one on their tail. Hard-nosed federal agent Luke Hobbs (Johnson) never misses his target. When he is assigned to track down Dom and Brian, he and his strike team launch an all-out assault to capture them.

April 29th

Thor

Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Tom Hiddleston, Anthony Hopkins, Rene Russo, Stellan Skarsgard

Paramount Pictures and Marvel Entertainment present the epic adventure, “Thor,” which spans the Marvel Universe from present day Earth to the realm of Asgard. At the centre of the story is the mighty Thor (Hemsworth), a powerful but arrogant warrior whose reckless actions reignite an ancient war. Thor is cast down to Earth by his father Odin (Hopkins) and is forced to live among humans. A beautiful, young scientist, Jane Foster (Portman), has a profound effect on Thor, as she ultimately becomes his first love. It’s while here on Earth that Thor learns what it takes to be a true hero when the most dangerous villain of his world sends the darkest forces of Asgard to invade Earth.