Film Screening: 'Race, Resistance, Renaissance'

To celebrate the opening of the Black Heritage Centre, the Black Cultural Archives in conjunction with the Ritzy Cinema, launched a (very short) season of films, which further explored Black British identity.

The first two films 'Stuart Hall Double Bill' and 'Long Distance Revolutionary: A Journey With Mumia Abu Jamal', previously screened Friday 15th August and Wednesday 20th August respectively, but the third and final 'Race, Resistance, Renaissance' will be screened on Friday 5th September at 6.30PM and will be followed by a Q+A  session with renowned film curator June Givanni.

For more info, simply visit Picturehouses.co.uk - BCA Film Season

Happy Birthday Frank Robinson & Chris Tucker!

Frank Robinson

14 Time MLB All-Star Who Became The First Player To Be Named MVP In Both The American & National Leagues, As Well As The First Black Person To Serve As Manager In MLB History

Chris Tucker

Blacktor, Comedian & Philanthropist, Commonly Known For His Roles As 'Smokey In 'Friday' And 'James Carter' In The 'Rush Hour' Move Franchise

Event Review: Notting Hill Carnival 2014

Last Sunday after years of skipping London's Notting Hill Carnival (6 for Shay, 10 for K and 20 yes TWENTY whole years for me) we all decided to go down and visit as adults.

We had planned to arrive at 2pm, but as usual timing didn't go to plan. We weren't too far off track though, rocking up at a respectable 2:30pm; pre bought liquor in hand (we weren't abut to be victims of extortion). Our first stop, where else but to the whistle and horn man? We had to ensure that we were adequately equipped to make up noise with the best of 'em.

Making our way into the carnival route, whilst dodging the carnival participants and their van, throwing coloured powder paint on passers by, we were greeted by the smell of the finest Caribbean food being cooked on jerk pans (I swore I could smell jerk from 10 minutes away ON the bus) -I've got a good nose, what can I say.

Familiar music was blaring from almost each side road, and it was a toss up as to which road to delve in to first. As we made our rounds to a few sound systems, (King Tubby Sound being my personal favourite). We couldn't help but notice from something that stared in 1966 for the Caribbean community, that there were so many people from  different cultures, almost outnumbering the Black Caribbean revellers. All the same Shay, K and I had a blast dancing it up, avoiding getting whined up too badly by the cruffy men, all whilst tooting our horns and admiring a few of the cuties passing by. There was this one cute passer by that Shay... Nevermind LOL!

I was having such an amazing time with my girls then all of a sudden at 7pm sharp, music 'lock aaf'. I couldn't believe it, we were having a blast and you mean to tell me this was it???

We had no idea that carnival finished so early, but due to trouble in previous years, these are the rules I guess. Maybe it's just as well it finished early because once we actually stopped dancing, our bodies felt mash up, and we were still to  make our way home.

All three of us has such a wicked time and couldn't stop raving about it for days to come, the only thing that disappointed was the fact that we never saw or heard any of the Steel Bands, Soca Music and Calypso Bands the Notting Hill Carnival is historically known for (I didn't mind too much because too much Soca isn't my bag). It was most likely due to the time we arrived anyway.

 I think I speak for all three of us when I say we will all be returning next year (earlier) and possibly for both days weather permitting, cah we don't want no colds yah. But until next year, three can only dream.

From Micky with Love

x

Happy Birthday Charlie Parker, Dinah Washington, Lenny Henry & Michael Jackson!

Charlie Parker

Pioneering Jazz Saxophonist & Composer Who Became A Key Figure In The Development Of Bebop

Dinah Washington

Pianist & Jazz Vocalist Who Was Also Known As 'The Queen Of The Blues'

Lenny Henry

British-Jamaican Stand-up Comedian, Writer, Presenter & Blacktor Who Became The First Black Comic To Achieve Mainstream Success In The UK

Michael Jackson

 

Singer, Songwriter, Dancer, Musician, Producer, Director, Blacktor, Motown Legend, Icon, Trendsetter,Visionary, Innovator, Trailblazer, Inventor, Philanthropist, Humanitarian, Most Awarded Artist Of All Time & The Greatest Entertainer The World Will Ever Witness

Cultural Landmark: The Black Cultural Archives, Brixton

Having officially opened it's doors to the public on the 24th July 2014, The Black Cultural Archives' first Black Heritage Centre located at Windrush Square in Brixton, not only boasts a vast collection of materials dating from the second century to present day, but also provides an extensive programme that includes Exhibitions, Conferences, Tours, Workshops, a Youth Forum, Cafe Club, Family Fun Activities, Weekend Schools, Learning Programmes, Volunteer Opportunities and Professional Development For Teachers, highlighting it's significance as a much needed hub through which everyone can learn more thoroughly about the experiences and contributions of Black people in Britain beyond Slavery. 

Opening Times:

Tuesdays - Sundays Between 10AM & 6PM

Admission:

Free Entry

Until you're able to take a trip, be sure to head on over to the official website bcaheritage.org.uk and check out The Reading Room, where you can search through the Online Catalogue and Subject Guides to explore all themes, then proceed to make an appointment for an up close and personal view of any material(s) you wish to see from the one of a kind archive collection.

Lastly, whether visiting the BCA in person or online, please don't forget to make a small donation in order to help preserve Our History!

Happy Birthday Ivy Jo Hunter, Wendell Scott, Roxie Roker & Quvenzhane Wallis!

Ivy Jo Hunter

Singer-Songwriter, Musician & Motown Legend

Wendell Scott

Stock Car Racing Driver Who Became The First Black Man To Obtain A NASCAR License

Roxie Roker

News Anchor, Mother Of Lenny Kravitz & Blacktress Whose Character 'Helen' On 'The Jeffersons' Became Half Of The First Interracial Couple Shown On Primetime TV

Quvenzhane Wallis

Singer & Blacktress Who Became The Youngest Person To Receive An Academy Award Nomination For Best Actress

Event Review: Day At Somerset House

A friend of mine asked me to accompany her to an exhibition I'd been meaning to get to so I went along and I am glad I did. We visited the 'Return Of The Rudeboy' exhibition and I really enjoyed it as there were a few pieces which reminded me of my Grandad (RIP xxx), and overall really captured what the 'Rudeboy' movement was all about.

We also visited the 'Tattoo Art Today' exhibition which was an experience in itself, very bizarre but some very interesting piece of artwork which represented tattoo artists style and signature. 5/10

I didn't quite get the theme/message and some of the pieces scared me a little bit lol

All that being said it was a nice end to a nice day at Somerset House.

A nice mix of culture and art. 7/10

Shay x

What's On: Ojay's In Concert, London, UK

18th & 19th Sept 2014

"Ultimate Boogie Night is proud to bring The O’Jays to London for the first time in over 20 years.

Having recently celebrated their 50th Anniversary, The O'Jays are living legends…American treasures."

For tickets and more info hit the link: Ojays @ IndigO2

Shay x

Fashion: Cuffed/Peg Trousers Look Book

A simple smart casual look for evening cocktails or a summer date.

Pair a cuff or peg leg trouser with a loose bold coloured top. compliment the look with a strapy pair of heals with a pop of colour and a simple clutch bag.

Keep the hair and accessories simple and the look is complete.

Get Yours:

Grey Cuff Trouser £22.99 - New Look

Yellow Strappy Top £14.00 - River Island

Shoes £45.00 - River Island via ASOS

Bag £35.00 - Aldo via ASOS

Shay x

What's On: Faith Evans, Syleena Johnson & Teedra Moses At Indigo O2 (2015)

Three of my favourite R&B vocalists are coming to the UK...I grew up listening to these amazing women and I am so glad they have stayed true to their craft with dignity and class...go ladies, do yo-thang!

*Faith Evans*

*Syleena Johnson*

*Teedra Moses*

Excited much?

YES! YES! YES!

Tickets go on sale 5th Sept 2014 but the concert is 28th Feb 2015

Get your tix via Indigo O2!

Shay x

Remembering: RIP To All Fallen Kings

Sadly another young life was taken for no reason and those responsible are refusing to come clean, if you can call it that!

In a very long and heartbreaking series of shootings of young black men & women, something has to be done!

Michael Brown was shot 6times and killed in the street of Ferguson, USA on Aug 9th 2014...WHY!?!

According to reports Michael Brown was unarmed!

Time mag reports "There are no written details about the event. As a result, the officer’s account of what transpired when the two men met just after noon on Aug. 9 remains a mystery."

MYSTERY??? This is someone's life!

BET News have reported on the sad story of a life cut short and failing in the justice systems....

We're so sorry to the families of these young men & women, their families and friends.

We pray God brings you all strength, peace and comfort during such hard times.

Rest in perfect peace to Michael Brown Jr and all the others who have had their lives stolen.

Shay x

What's On: Afrikan Yoga-Africa Utopia

When: Friday 12 Sep 2014 10.00am

Sunday 14 Sep 2014 10.00am

Cost: Free

"Take part in a session of Afrikan yoga.

This form of yoga is known for its use of rhythmic movements, helping to warm up the body in order to perform postures. The practise focuses on elemental body awareness and breath.

The development of flexibility, mobility strength, and endurance are emphasised through movement, uniting the body, mind and spirit for health and well-being.

These morning sessions will be led by experienced teachers Lenea Hebrew and Pablo Imani.

Friday: The Clore Ballroom at Royal Festival Hall
Saturday/Sunday: St Paul's Roof Pavilion at Royal Festival Hall"

  - Afrikan Yoga

Shay x

Fashion: Casual Summer-Rain Look Book

Summer rain is definitely here (not 100% sure it if it left) and I'm not quite ready to put away my summer wardrobe.

It can be hard to make a decision on what to wear on a daily basis as our weather is so unpredictable....

Some people like to dress in dark colours in the rain but I love to do my own thing and wear whatever I feel to whether it's rain, sleet, sun or hail!

As long as I have my scarf, umbrella, cardi or jacket I am ok!

So all that being said here's a casual summer look for our random rainy summer days.

GET YOURS!

Smock Dress - Boohoo

Orange High Top Trainers - Asos

Necklace - Forever 21

Scarf  - River Island

Shay x

Web TV: Atlanta Exes

 First airing on the 18th of August in the US, came a new addition to the Black American reality show genre.

Atlanta Exes stars the ex's of 5 well known Black entertainers; Tameka Raymond, ex-wife of Usher, Christina Johnson, ex-wife of CeeLo Green, Monyetta Shaw, ex-fiancé of Ne-Yo, Sheree Buchanan, ex-wife of Ray Buchanan and Torrei Hart, ex-wife of Kevin Hart.

 

Each ex-wife is facing their own personal journeys, and the show portrays the ladies, as a kind of sisterhood, who have been brought together by their similar experiences of divorce or separation. However, it's not all hugs and rainbows; from time to time, the ladies do have their disagreements, from differing parenting styles to attitudes of certain group members.

 

I don't watch many of the reality shows, but I'm keeping an eye on this one.

 

Fore more information, visit VH1.com

 

From  Micky With Love

 

x

Happy Birthday Joseph Marcell & Malcolm Jamal Warner!

Joseph Marcell

St Lucian Born British Blacktor Commonly Known For His Hilarious Role As 'Geoffrey' On The Iconic 90's Sitcom 'The Fresh Prince Of 'Bel-Air'

Malcolm Jamal Warner

Blacktor, Director & Musician Most Known For His Role As 'Theo Huxtable' On The Ground-Breaking Sitcom 'The Cosby Show'

Fashion: Who Wears Short, Shorts?

I genuinely feel like I've missed a memo...I mean when did shorts become knickers?

I am sure I am not alone, so where are people's shorts going these days...? I've seen way more than I need!

I can't imagine how uncomfortable some of these shorts must be and not to mention intimate sweating, wedges etc but I'll leave all that alone! *YUK*

There are so many styles, cuts and lengths today it's enough to drive you to get out your old jeans and cut them up to the shorts you want. (I may actually do this)

Anyway, I was searching online for a pair of shorts to wear for this years Notting Hill Carnival.

Most of the pairs I found were either too tight, too short or just got lost (front & back), if you get my meaning lool

The hunt IS on, but here's what I've found thus far although I can tell this is not going to be easy!

 Asos £30.00

 

 Asos £13.00

 

 

Shay x

Relationships: Trust

A close friend had this pic on her FBstatus and it got me thinking about how I would react to my partner locking his phone or being cagey...

Now, I am a strong believer in the saying 'No trust, No point' and I fully support the idea that if you go looking for trouble, you are sure to find it but I have to agree with this post.

I am all for not loosing yourself in a relationship and having a certain level of privacy etc but if you're in a relationship and your significant other cannot read your messages or answer your phone...something isn't right! I mean, unless your partner works for MI5, CIA etc there is no reason you shouldn't be allowed to answer a call or read a text!

In my opinion there should be a certain level of openness and honesty that comes with being with someone but I fully support the notion that if you even think of checking your partners phone, there is cause for concern. On the other hand why provoke?

Why be secretive and shady if there is nothing to hide? but again the fact these questions are arising should be all you need to know!

Personally I believe if you're in a relationship, you're all in, No secrets, hiding, games etc

If my partner was to be very secretive about his phone etc it would send alarm bells and the best thing to do when alarms go off is get yo sh** & EVACUATE!
 

No trust, No point...that's my two pence on that!
 

Shay x

Event Review: Africa Live Festival 2014

Upon arrival there were no sign posts as to the actual location of the festival and there were two other events happening so it wasn't easy to locate the vendors.  

 

There were about 10/15 vendors all selling beautiful and unique African inspired pieces and  some familiar faces too from other African market events. For example, I ran into the lovely Keke of 'Pieces by Keke' and as always was in love with her creations and bought a fab Africa ring :-)

I also saw Ms Sharifah of 'Nubian Accents' with her fabulous collection of Natural and Crystal jewellery (a pleasure as always) and spotted a few other vendors who stood out to me...

*Cherubim

*Khnade Designs

*Joli Create, the fabulous handmade homeware company who have some beautiful pieces.
 

All in all it was a nice day out. I wouldn't call Africa Live a festival more like a market but I did get to meet some lovely people and got some really nice bits.

My Rating: 6/10

 

I'm a happy bunny :-)

 

Shay x

Food: Protein From Veggie's

 

 Those of us who don't eat meat or are vegan are often asked the age old question "Where do you get your protein?".

I assume people ask as they wonder how veggies can have a balance diet without eating meat or consuming dairy products and it still surprises me today that people do not know.....

It's pretty simple....

 This may come as a shock to you meat eaters but there are other sources of protein in various plants, nuts, seeds and pulses.

So don't worry, us veggies have got it covered :-)

***Dietary Sources Of Protein And The Essential Amino Acids***

"The protein content of plant origin foods such as nuts, peas and beans (including peanuts) is very high and rivals that of meat and fish. Some vegetarians include eggs and/or dairy products as part of their protein intake. Cheese has similar levels of protein to meat and fish by weight, whilst egg is regarded as the perfect protein food for its ideal balance of amino acids.

Whether dairy products and/or eggs are included in our diet, plant foods provide a major part of protein intake. Pulses, such as quinoa, can form the basis of many types of meals and soya products such as milk, tofu, miso or ready made products like burgers and sausages are probably the most versatile source of protein. Nuts can be incorporated into breakfast and sweet or savoury dishes providing an energy-dense source of protein. Quorn^TM is a form of myco-protein – an edible fungus - and is sold in a range of different forms from mince to fillets.

Everyday foods that are normally regarded as carbohydrates such as rice and grains, pasta, breakfast cereals and bread contain significant amounts of protein and can play an important part in your intake. For example, 100g of wholemeal bread contains 9.4g of protein. Potatoes eaten in quantity also provide useful amounts of protein"
- [Source: vegsoc.org]

Happy Vegging!

 Shay x