cookemedia

When In Rome

2009-01-02T03:22:00.006Z

Korean Air [Review]

2008-10-10T16:17:00.053Z

Once you get over the initial excitement of economy-class long-haul plane travel - it all pretty much sucks.

However, some long-haul airlines suck less than others - Korean Air is one of these.

If you are going to be locked-up in a tin can for an obscene amount of time - the best you can hope for is that: you don't have to pay too much for the pleasure; the flight is as quick as possible; the ~~trolley dollies~~ flight attendants are pleasant; and the safety videos are mildly erotic.

That's why I'll fly Korean Air again.

From the logo - you could be forgiven for thinking that Korean Air is a Pepsi Cola brand

THE SUCK SCALE
SCALE: 0 PLANES - SUCKS THE LEAST; 10 PLANES - SUCKS THE MOST

LAST AIRLINE REVIEWED: ETIHAD 2/10

THE PROS

Under-seat sockets for laptop plugs
four-star accommodation included in the cost of the flight [where no same-day longhaul connection exists to/from Australia & New Zealand]
Comparatively cheap compared to other airlines
Skyteam Frequent Flier Points
Fast and friendly

	From the plane window, blurred city lights resemble Jackson Pollock artwork

THE CONS

No seat back monitor between Seoul and Auckland
No foot-rests
Hostess unable to lend me an adapter for the two-pin socket under the seat [Etihad Airways once managed to find me one]

THE BITS & BOBS

I travelled out in September 2008 in economy class between London & Auckland.

The ticket cost £760 return all-in - £200 less than the next cheapest airfare I could find for my dates.

A travel visa is not necessary for transit or stopover when travellers use a NZ, AU, GB passport [90 days] or US passport [30 days].

For up-to-date visa & passport details - visit the website travel agents use: http://www.uk.cibt.com/ [log-in as 'guest']

The flight time is broken-up almost perfectly - each leg is about eleven-hours. In addition there is only one change of plane.

Korean Air operates a Boeing 747-400 between London & Seoul and then a 777-200 down to Auckland.

The over-all flight time is faster than even Air New Zealand.

The connection time on the way out is three-hours.

On the way back there is an overnight stay - great if you are not in a hurry.

	It was a relief to walk around the airport after the claustrophobic confines of the plane

ON THE PLANE

The seat-pitch on Korean Air is pretty decent compared to other airlines.

When I say 'decent,' it's not degrees of comfort I'm referring to - rather degrees of discomfort.

Korean Air is less uncomfortable than other carriers.

Between London and Seoul the seat-pitch is 34-inches; From Seoul down to Auckland it is 33-inches. For context - the typical BA economy seat-pitch is 31-inches.

Those extra few inches help. It means when the person in front of you reclines their seat - your whole face does not irradiated by their seat-back screen. It also means that your knees are not wrapped around your ears. A problem for most, except: Romanian gymnasts; Bikram yogis; or dwarves. None of which are known to ply the route to the antipodes. Much to our disappointment.

The 747 has a row configuration of 3-4-3, except at the back - where the plane narrows to 2-4-2. I always try and get a side seat there. It means you don't have to crawl over as many people to go to the loo - or have them crawl over you.

Korean Air has no scruples in arming its passengers with steel cutlery - which is the safer option really

An additional bonus is that Korean Air put the headphone socket on the front of the armrest. This makes a pleasant change to the airlines who place it on the inside arm so it digs in to your thigh. Especially troublesome for those apportioned with a generous flanks.

The little things make a big difference. On the 747 the aisle arm-rests come-up [There is a latch under the arm at the base] for a little extra lateral room - but not on the 777.

There is room for improvement, most notably - Korean Air need to add foot-rests. They lift your legs off the seat to permit easy blood circulation and prevent blood clots. A condition known as Economy Class Syndrome or Deep Vein Thrombosis.

A simple addition that prevents death might be worthy of consideration.

Another demonstration in design master class is the placement of the seat-back remote on the top of the armrest. It means you can unwittingly turn your seat into the world's highest disco. The overhead light turns on-and-off and the flight attendant's bell 'ding dings' as your elbow runs along the console buttons.

Finally, both planes have single middle armrests only - except the very middle seat of the 777. It means elbow wars with you neighbours - especially at meal-times.

For an experiment, at home tonight - try to eat dinner with your elbows glued to your ribs.

	Incheon is one of the world's busiest airports with over 30 million passengers a year

SOCKETS

Round two-pin Asian sockets are under the seats in economy. This fact alone means Korean Air lose a star on the 'Suck Scale'. Bring your own adapter plug.

MEALS

Korean Air has no scruples in arming its passengers with steel cutlery - which is the safer option really.

Plastic cutlery can easily be snapped in to sharp dagger-like shanks; planes hijacked - then flown in to a sky-scrappers. Sound implausible? None-the-less, it's tougher to do this with butter knives.

Western and Asian meal options were available on each flight. I turned my nose up at the chicken, beef & fish and decided to try a few different Eastern treats.

The same meals were served on each flight. If this were prison, there would be a riot. There is only so much seaweed soup, pumpkin porridge and rice cakes a man can take.

If only the Korean Air bibimbap looked this good Image available from Flickr

The main was called Bibimbap. It is a mixture of rice, bean-shoots, lettuce, cucumber, pickles, finely minced beef, sesame seed oil, and hot red pepper paste. It was pretty bland really, but nutritious and light - so good for a long flight.

THE TOILETS

Toilets on airplanes are like plastic coffins - with amenities. It says a lot about the cramped conditions that a visit to the toilet is something to look forward to.

I went for the space, squirty bottles and music. And something to do. There I was soothed by Pachelbel’s Canon. It's ironic that one of the most beautiful pieces of music ever composed is named after heavy artillery.

On the sinks sat moisturiser and toilet water. Not splash-back from the bowl, rather eau-de-toilet. A few squirts of the refreshing pine and musk fragrance transformed the cubicle into a damp forest edge. I flushed the toilet and added a waterfall effect.

ENTERTAINMENT

In the old days to entertain yourself, you would try to read a book or talk to other passengers - whether they liked it or not.

These days most airlines provide seat-back entertainment systems. It means you can now comfortably ignore the person three inches away from you for eleven consecutive hours.

The 747 between London and Seoul had a 21cm seat-back touch-screen which showed a selection of on-demand: games, films, TV shows and documentaries.

There were more movies than you could shake a stick at. Over 50 of them. They covered everything from Hollywood Hits to Asian Cinema.

I watched a Korean film with English subtitles called BA:BO. A wholesome concert pianist returns to her village after ten years in Europe and decides to hang out with a brothel pimp and the village idiot.

BA:BO trailer on YouTube

I initially thought the relationships were unlikely, but if Rupert Murdoch [who looks more like a Sith Lord as each day passes] can hook up with Wendi Deng - I suppose anything is possible.

Rupert Murdoch / Emperor Palpatine

The airline also showed a documentary titled: 'The Great Global Warming Swindle'. It correlated climate change much more closely to solar activity than carbon emissions – which are random by comparison.

The Great Global Warming Swindel on garagetv

A neat piece of education by, err… a member of the carbon producing aviation industry.

To consolidate their position as Carbon Deniers [They'll be forbidden from flying to Germany soon, or its executives expediently extradited under the new European Arrest Warrants], Korean Air do not have a programme to offset passengers' carbon emissions.

But I ~~crap on~~ digress...

The last time I saw such intense concentration and deliberate movements combined with a partially open mouth and demure eyes flicking-up with long lingered looks to the camera – Debbie was in the process of doing Dallas...

The in-flight entertainment system has ten games. They are mostly generic computer games like Tetris or dice and board. Bored games if you are under 20-years-old. The chess is Mickey Mouse - metaphorically that is. Were it literally Mickey Mouse – it might have some novelty value.

The entertainment on the 777 was almost back to the bad old days of air travel. I would not have been surprised to see people sleeping on the floor or smoking. Screens dropped from the ceiling at what seemed like 50m intervals. Unfortunately my binoculars has been confiscated by security. Lucky I had my laptop though [I bought an adapter plug at Incheon]. I could now ignore my next door neighbour without guilt.

Incheon International Airport may be too modern & sterile for those used to 'third world' airports like Heathrow

INCHEON INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Incheon is the main international gateway for Korea. The capital, Seoul, is about 50km away.

The airport is an oasis of calm and civility. multi-story-high exposed steel girders and glass walls create space and room to circulate air and light. It was a relief from the claustrophobic confines of the plane. Tranquil even.

There is noise – but not much. The International Terminal is more akin to a library than an airport. It’s so quiet that you can hear footsteps on the marble floors. People talk in muted whispers – if they talk at all. The tannoy announcements are so gentle you need to strain to hear them

There are lounges with big comfy chairs where you can plug in your own computer [once you buy an International adapter] and connect to the Internet for free. Otherwise there are Mac notebooks with free Internet access – although some are loaded only with Korean language packs.

The airport does disappoint in a few areas. It is too big for one. There are probably quite a few bars and restaurants - but they are spread so far apart - they seem to be almost non-existent. The duty free is unremarkable. Actually the prices are similar to the duty free at other airports. I smell collusion, or is it Issey Miyake - either way something stinks.

You can whittle away the transit time by enjoying free demonstrations of traditional Korean music

STOPOVER ACCOMMODATION PACKAGE

When there is no same-day connecting flight between Australia/New Zealand and the UK - Korean Air provide a complimentary night’s accommodation. It includes meals and transfers.

Once you have paid for your flight ticket in full – get your travel agent to contact Korean Air to request the stopover package. Confirmation takes 24 hours.

The actual hotel and vouchers are not assigned until you arrive at the transfer desk at Incheon airport.

On arrival, go through passport control and collect you bag [unless you have checked it all the way through to London – In which case remember to take out a change of clothes prior].

Once you step in to the arrival hall – the Korean Air transfer desk should be visible in front of you. At the desk your name will be checked from a list [If your Travel Agent has done their job] - and food vouchers given. I was given a breakfast voucher worth KRW 20,000 [£10.00] and a lunch voucher worth KRW 10,000 [£5.00]

The attendant will direct you towards one of many hotel representatives standing nearby.

Korean use different standards of hotels in their stopover programme. If you end up with a chit for the Best Western – ask if you can stay at the Hyatt Regency. it is a four star hotel less than five minutes drive away. Rooms usually cost about £120 per night.

HYATT REGENCY

At the reception I made a mistake in that I didn’t ask for a non-smoking room. Or the receptionist made a mistake in that she never gave me the option. The error became apparent as soon as I opened the door. It was like someone had just waved a full ashtray under my nose. I soon became immune to the stench. The room is what you would expect from Hyatt: tastefully decorated with neutral colours; spacious [30sq/m + at a guess] with a big desk, king-size bed, large bathroom and big TV.

In the morning I put on the room dressing gown - which smelled like cigarette smoke. I made my way downstairs for a swim. Jet-lag has some advantages, at 6am - I had the 25-metre pool all to myself.

After a few laps, I took my voucher to the breakfast restaurant - and helped myself to the buffet. Everything was there, from: cooked breakfast, cereals and fruits to Asian breakfasts.

FREQUENT FLIER PROGRAMME [SKYPASS]

Korean Air is part of Skyteam. It means once you have accrued enough air-miles, they can be redeemed for flights on Korean – or one of its partner airlines. They include: Air France, KLM, Alitalia, Continental and Delta to name a few.

Enrol online: SKYPASS

CHECK-IN

Check-in was painless. In London I checked-in all the way to Auckland and vice-versa on the way back. I was given my boarding pass to the final destination. In both London and Auckland there was no queue at all. I went straight to the check-in counter.

ONBOARD SERVICE

The flight attendants were all young and beautiful with easy smiles and a warm seemingly sincere charm. They liked their jobs.

The one in the seat-belt safety video liked her job too - a lot. It was almost C grade smut. It certainly had my attention – which is the point I suppose.

The last time I saw such intense concentration and deliberate movements combined with a partially open mouth and demure eyes flicking-up with long lingered looks to the camera – Debbie was in the process of doing Dallas...

Bambi Woods stars in the classic 70's skin flick Debbie Does Dallas. Image available from: xratedcollection.com

I'm willing to bet that less people are injured on Korean Air due to in-flight turbulence than any other airline.

Safety first after all...

Kettle Etiquette

2008-09-23T05:42:00.012Z

My name is Steve Cooke and I’m a refiller. Every time I use the kettle, I replace the water – up to the top. I reckon it is the nice thing to do - it saves the next person from a job.

I figure it is more efficient as well. Hot water can be poured into a cup and the kettle refilled from the tap immediately after - in a single physical transaction. It also means the kettle needs to be refilled less often.

Thoughtful & labour efficient - what could be better? You would think.

My efforts to standardise house kettle practice armed with logic and consideration have been met with ferocious resistance - especially by Fill-As-You-Go Theorists.

In an effort to: undermine The Refiller Technique; discredit its proponents; and promote their own agenda – Fill-As-You-Go Theorists have muddied the water with their own interpretation of convenience and social decorum.

They claim that: Time; Energy Conservation; and Water Freshness outweigh the benefits created by consideration and labour efficiency.

This article investigates the veracity of these claims and looks at other factors, such as: Health & Safety; Economic; and Social Considerations.

Time

Time is relative according to Physicist Albert Einstein.

As such, to truly understand time in this context would be to also understand a key component to the order of the universe - such as The Quantum Zeno Effect.

If quantum mechanics are then applied to this debate, and the Fill-As-You-Go Theorist is a kettle watcher - then the time taken for the kettle to boil can not be calculated.

A watched pot never boils and all.

If they are a multi-tasker, then they have other things to do - in which case the time taken for the kettle to boil becomes irrelevant.

Then there are other factors - none the least: how individual brains are hardwired to operate their own frequencies and the effect this has in the interpretation of time.

We could throw a psychology variable in for good measure as well.

Excess Energy Consumption

While The Refiller Technique does use excess electricity – it, in-it-self can not be held responsible for political decisions to use non-renewable dirty fuels as primary energy sources.

Many governments are now scaling back their nuclear and fossil fuel programmes in favour of renewable and clean: hydro, wave, wind and solar power.

If projections prove correct, eventually renewable energy will be so plentiful and cheap that any concerns about excess energy consumption will become irrelevant.

Water Freshness

In the UK, the perfect cup-of-tea is a science: water, tea, sugar and milk - all of the right quality; in the right proportions; and in the right order.

Therefore, repeatedly boiled water, sitting in the kettle for an indeterminate period of time - is a threat to the Great British cuppa.

It is hardly surprising that Fill-As-You-Go Theorists have drawn a line in the sand.

However, this line conveniently ignores the fact that tap water has been recycled. It has been treated eight times and has probably spent much more than a few hours sitting in lead, copper or plastic pipes en route to the kitchen tap.

Other factors that invalidate the water quality component of the Fill-As-You-Go Theorist’s argument are: the lack of clear guidelines when water loses its freshness - does it become stale: one minute, one hour, or one day after it leaves the tap? How does room temperature affect the quality?

Also, no effort has been made to analyse kettle use frequency – or to document peak and off-peak times.

Health & Safety

The more physical transactions that are made with the kettle, the more likely there are to be spills - and injuries caused by slips.

Water that resides in a stainless steel kettle is less likely to accumulate undesirable toxic residues than liquid left in metal or plastic pipes.

Cooled boiled water is sterilised. Re-boiling sterilised water is safer to drink.

Economic Considerations

The more a kettle is used – the shorter its life. The end result is a greater kettle turnover.

Economies of scale means: the more kettles that are produced – the cheaper they become.

Excessive consumerism stimulates both the local and global economies and creates more jobs and wealth.

Social Considerations

Globalisation and excessive consumerism contribute to: social, economic and political stability. This means fewer conflicts - such as wars.

Conclusion

The Refiller Technique is both progressive and visionary. It provides livelihoods; is thoughtful; time & labour efficient. It saves money; is better for health; prevents injuries and saves lives.

Footnote

My traumatised flatmate has decided to buy his own kettle.

NEXT WEEK: Peg Etiquette

Should pegs be left on the line; placed in a basket; or dropped on the ground?

'Selfless' Trainee Doctor Keeps Giving

2008-09-09T14:44:00.005Z

A young Cambridge woman who studies medicine at Trinity Hall has been recognised for her diverse volunteering and efforts to help others in despite of the demands of her own hectic schedule.

Trainee doctor Kristie Bewers was put forward for a SkillsTrain Young People of the Year Award, or ‘YOPEY’ after she put her studies aside to help: a local girl guides unit; children from disadvantaged families; and act as a mentor to her peers.

The twenty-two-year-old’s time and energy was not limited to local causes - but also extended to Africa after a medical placement in Malawi.

The Felixstowe native is now in with a chance to win a share from a £2000 cash prize pool and to attend an awards ceremony in Cambridgeshire.

The nomination comes after her boyfriend recognised that Kristie possessed the same qualities as last years’ YOPEY finalist after he read about them in the Cambridge Evening News.

Tom Cock described Kristie as ‘dedicated’. "She fundamentally believes in the things that she does," he said. "I suppose selfless would be the best way to describe it".

"She really puts herself out there," he continued. "Despite the enormous amount of time this requires and her incredibly demanding career choice".

YOPEY aims to reveal, recognise and reward positive young role models like Kristie. It hopes a more accurate picture of the younger generation will reassure adults and inspire other youngsters to give to the community.

It is the creation of former national newspaper journalist Tony Gearing. The Hertfordshire father of two teenagers has seen the idea grow and spread into 22 successful awards ceremonies over six counties.

Kristie chose to study medicine through a combination of interest and altruism. "I like the science, the problem solving," she said. "Then applying that to people in every day life and being able to help them".

She can be found demonstrating those principles a couple of hours every week at St Johns Church in Hills Rd with the 5th Cambridge Guides.

As a volunteer and occasional acting guide leader - she assists planning activities, organising trips, overseeing semi-educational games and tasks.

"I enjoy what the girls get out of it," she said. "You get to know them and you get to know an entire spectrum of the community which is really nice".

Kristie’s volunteering also touches other spectrums in the community. She runs a project through her university called ‘Student Community Action’.

For confidentiality reasons, she is reluctant to name the actual organisation she helps - but it essentially involves taking children from disadvantaged families to the park once a week.

We play: football, tag, frisbee - that sort of thing, she said, "like you would with your children in your back garden".

"The mothers are pleased and really grateful to us," she said. "For many it’s the first time they’ve had to themselves in weeks".

It’s not only Guides and the disadvantaged that have benefited from Kristie’s help – but also her peers.

As the Trinity Hall Welfare Officer, she gave up a couple-of-hours a month to listen and give advise to students with: health, relationship or study issues.

"It was very good we were there," she said. "It was a supportive role – you mainly told people what they already knew".

She has just come back from Malawi where she completed a medical elective in the small town of Nkhoma, near the capital Lilongwe, with the Church Of Central Africa Presbyterian Mission.

"I went out to learn tropical medicine," she said, "but you receive other training so you can help out where you can".

"I would see patients to ease the doctors’ workloads, do things like change wound dressings".

The experience has given her a new perspective.

"It makes you realise that a lot of medical problems are to so with infrastructure," she said. "No one here would walk for two hours to see a doctor - it makes you appreciate the NHS".

Nominations are now open for YOPEY Cambridgeshire.

Visit www.yopey.org for details and to see the latest nominees and previous winners.

Anyone can apply – this includes young people themselves.

Nominees must be aged between 10-25, live, work or study in the county, and give to others at home or abroad.

Applications can also be made by post. Send a SAE to: Young People of the Year, PO Box 103, Hare Street, Ware SG9 0XD for an entry form.

Reformed Gavin listed for award

2008-09-09T12:42:00.003Z

Article Published with a byline in the regional newpaper Luton Today [27 August 2008]

A Luton teenager whose life threatened to go off the rails after a family tragedy has managed to bring himself back from the brink and use his troubled past in a positive way.

16-year-old Gavin O’Brien uses his experiences, which include: school exclusions; drug use; aggressive behaviour; bullying; bereavement and past learning difficulties, to help others as a Peer Mentor at Stopsley High School.

Learning Mentor Angela Peck was so impressed by how he has: "effectively supported a number of students break down their barriers to learning," and his "enthusiasm and his determination to succeed," that she has nominated him for a SkillsTrain Young Person of the Year Award in Bedfordshire, also known as YOPEY.

If short-listed, Gavin has the chance to: attend a local award ceremony; mingle with his peers, sponsors and local dignitaries; and be in with a chance to win cash from a £2000 prize pool.

YOPEY is the creation of former national journalist Tony Gearing. Its aims to: reveal, recognise and reward youngsters in what it calls the YOPEY ‘Three Rs’.

The Hertfordshire father of two teens hopes that YOPEY acts as an incentive for more youngsters to make community contributions and creates a more accurate youth image in the media.

Gavin’s problems began ten-years-ago, when he was six-years-old. He was at home with his twin brother when a fire broke out. Gavin managed to escape the burning house but Sean died in the fire.

Gavin blames himself and has lived with the guilt since. It has affected his behaviour. Bouts of aggression led to school exclusions and it was not until he was year five that he resumed full-time education.

Gavin arrived at Stopsley High School in 2003 with what Angela describes as: "a statement for behaviour issues and learning difficulties".

Years outside of full-time education meant: "his numeracy and literacy levels were way below average," said Angela.

The specialist sports college has provided the perfect platform for Gavin to develop both personally and educationally. He benefits from the discipline that sport offers.

The Manchester United fan plays and is passionate about football. He also plays rugby and participates in athletics. "I use sport to control my temper," he said. "If I can control my temper on the field, I can control it off the field".

Like many youngsters, he prefers action to words. "I go to anger management classes", he said, "but they don’t really help".

With help from a teaching assistant and support from the school - Gavin has managed to catch-up academically. He has just finished his GCSEs and is optimistic about his marks. "I get my results this month," he said. "I did better than I thought I would".

He credits his success to both Angela and Stopsley High School. "Angela is very good support for me," he said. "I don’t think I would be where I am today without her help - the whole school actually".

He wanted to repay the faith shown in him - so at the end of year ten, he applied to become a Peer Mentor.

He went through a rigorous selection process. "Over 60 people applied for 12 places," said Angela. "He successfully completed the initial application process, the two day training which was held during school holidays and then passed the interview that followed," she said.

This was an additional workload on top of the pressures of GCSEs examinations and other commitments.

Now, for several hours a week during term-time – Gavin can be found organising appointments and: providing advice, support and dispute resolution for his caseload of younger pupils.

"I’ve used what I’ve learned over the years," he said. "It helps I have experience".

He gives the example of bullying – where he arranges the parties to come together. "I get them in to a room and get them to talk to each other," he said. "More often than not there is success".

His reward comes from the results. "I get enjoyment from the end-bit," he said. "When they sort it out - and they are both happy".

His advice and support is not limited caseload – it extends to his peers and friends.

There are areas where Gavin is uniquely qualified to offer guidance - or just to listen

"When my mate’s mum died, he came to me to help him deal with it," said Gavin. "It’s because I understood what he was going through".

He has also helped people with their drug problems. Again his experience comes in to play - having dabbled with drugs in the past himself. "I sit them down and tell them what they are doing to themselves," said Gavin.

Some times listening and advice is not enough - as was the case with one friend. He staged a one man intervention. "I helped my mate get off coke," he said. "I was with him all the time so he couldn’t do it."

The school are proud of how far Gavin has come. So much so that when it came time for a government review of the school – he was asked to give a one-to-one interview with Ofsted inspectors.

Although the future looks bright - Gavin still has not fully come to terms with the death of his brother and continues to have flashbacks. "Every now and then I have moments," he said.

Ten years on, the counselling sessions continue - but with limited success. "They help me deal with the guilt, make me think about it," he said. "But I still feel very guilty".

Nominations are now open for YOPEY Bedfordshire.

Visit: www.yopey.org for details and to see the latest nominees and previous winners.

Anyone can apply – this includes young people themselves.

Nominees must be aged between 10-25, live, work or study in the county, and give to others at home or abroad.

Applications can also be made by post.

Send a SAE to: Young People of the Year, PO Box 103, Hare Street, Ware SG9 0XD for an entry form.

10 Downing Street Petition

2008-09-06T08:27:00.007Z

After a humiliation at the hands of Tesco - I decided to petition the Prime Minister to make it a crime for companies to discriminate against those who choose not to wear shoes.

If you want to vote for your feet - use your fingers.

The link to the 10 Downing Street Petition is: http://petitions.number10.gov.uk/BareFeet/

It closes on 22 August 2009.

Read the rage behind the request at: Toe The Line

p.s. Bare Feet are a metaphor.

Sports Mad Teen’s Peer Presence

2008-07-22T10:20:00.004Z

Tanya Richardson is a dynamo. When the sports-mad teen isn’t busy promoting, coaching or playing sport - she can be found raising money for charity or helping others.

Her efforts have not gone unnoticed, and now the 16-year-old from Coleshill, near Amersham, is in the running for a SkillsTrain Young People of the Year Award, or ‘YOPEY’.

Along with the best of Buckinghamshire’s youth, Tanya is now in with a chance to win a share from a £2000 cash pool. First place takes home £1000 and in the spirit of the awards - half of each prize is donated to a charity of choice or nominating organisation.

YOPEY has revealed recognised and rewarded young benefactors throughout six counties for four years.

It is the creation of former national newspaper journalist Tony Gearing.

The Hertfordshire father of two teens hopes the ensuing exposure inspires other 10 - 25-year-olds to give to the community and results in a more accurate portrayal of today’s youth.

The nomination comes from Amanda Edwards at Holmer Green Senior School [HGSS].

The Year Seven Head and P.E. teacher describes Tanya as: "always positive with an infectious spirit". She has: "given up countless hours of her time to encourage young people into sports," said Amanda.

Tanya has: "raised money for many different charities and led fundraising initiatives;" and has: "shown dedication and commitment, supporting and leading others in and out of school," said Amanda.

The recognition comes after years of graft and commitment. "Tanya has been a member of our Sports Committee for 5 years," said Amanda. Its job is to: "promote sport in our local area and school," said Tanya. "I’ve been in it from the start".

She has taken on many different roles and responsibilities in that time.

"We do so many different things," said Tanya. "Come-up with ideas, organise different trips". "We once raised money for a tennis day for local primary schools," she said. "We also organised the [sports] coaches and buses".

Tanya also helped to organise and oversee a school lunchtime club. Activities included inter-form dodge ball, rounders and, Indoor netball. £1000 was raised to develop the school gym building.

But without Tanya’s initiative the building would have remained empty. "I went in for a grant," she said. "I wrote letters and made calls". The result was £3500 for new equipment. Her efforts were recognised at the gym opening. "I got to cut the ribbon," she said.

"I play county and regional netball," said Tanya. She passes this experience on to others. "I provide coaching support for peers in netball, tennis and athletics," she said. "I generally go to most of the after school clubs".

Recently Tanya did two weeks of work experience at Chalfont St Giles Middle School. "I coached the 5–12-year-olds netball", she said. "[The school] were so impressed the asked me back".

There is an elderly woman in my village who suffers from Alzheimer’s. I go around just for a chat and a cup of tea or to give her some lunch

She also helps to coach tennis every Sunday morning and provides teacher support during PE lessons.

When Tanya gets some spare time she writes the monthly school sport newsletter 'HGSS Inside Sport'. It contains information and advertisements for: forthcoming events; clubs; high achievers and match reports. "I write this in my spare time," she said. "Whether this be in a free period, during a break, at lunch or after school".

Tanya is an all-rounder, in school and out-of-school. Her contribution is both hands-on; behind-the-scenes – and on the stage. This was demonstrated at the school Gym and Dance Show. "She opened the show with a speech to 180 parents," said Amanda.

Tanya’s contributions are not limited to sport. She also makes time to mentor new pupils to HGSS. When one year-seven student had trouble adjusting to the new environment, Tanya was there. His mother was so impressed she wrote to the school. "If all the mentors are of this standard the peer mentoring program must be excellent," she said.

She is also a spokeswoman on environmental issues. "I attended The Youth Waste Summit," She said. "I had to prepare a speech about recycling and pollution". It was: "presented in front of other schools and people from the council," she said.

Tanya also contributes to charity events, inside and outside of school. "I’ve done a lot of fundraising," she said.

Events like: The British Heart Foundation’s Jump Rope for Heart and McMillan Coffee Mornings for cancer. "They were organised aided by the school council," she said. "Everyone did their part".

Others included a basketball day where money was raised for wheelchair basketball. Then there was help given to run school Christmas Market stalls.

When her friend was diagnosed with a rare stomach cancer, Tanya got involved. Robert Holland had Desmoplastic Small Round Cell Tumours, a condition that mostly affect teenage boys.

A charity called ROB'S ARTTT was set up by his parents. The website is: http://www.robsarttt.piczo.com/

It has lofty ambitions. "We want to raise £100,000," said Tanya.

We have ‘Rob Days’ she said. Money is raised through events like: sponsored parachute jumps; school mufti days; a chocolate fondue and a summer fête.

Then there are bucket donations dedicated to Rob. "We dressed up as Superheroes," she said. There was an: Iron Man, Wonder Woman, Superman and Superwoman. "We see him as our hero, we call him the legend," she said.

Rob passed away last year but his memory lives on through his friends and their dedication to his charity.

It hopes to raise enough money to pay for a Research Fellow at John Radcliffe Children's Hospital. "At the moment we’ve raised £76,000," said Tanya.

Her contributions are not limited to her peers. "There is an elderly woman in my village who suffers from Alzheimer’s," she said. "I go around just for a chat and a cup of tea or to give her some lunch," she said. "I regularly visit her".

Tanya is always willing to help. "If anyone needs a hand I’m the first person they ask," she said. The most recent example came after Wimbledon. "People wanted to take up tennis," she said. "They would say: ‘Tanya can help me’".

Nominations are now open for the 2008 Buckinghamshire Young People of the Year Awards. Anyone can apply – this includes young people themselves. Nominees must be aged between 10-25 and give to others at home or abroad.

Visit: http://www.yopey.org for details and to see the latest nominees and previous winners.

Applications can also be made by post. Send a SAE to: Young People of the Year, PO Box 103, Hare Street, Ware SG9 0XD for an entry form.

Dr. Iva Nastichesticoff

2008-07-13T09:44:00.031Z

I love it when I get a call from Universal Extras.

Every couple of months they check my availability to work as a film extra - although we prefer the title: supporting-artiste, crowd-artiste or background-artiste.

One minute I might be at work surfing the Internet - the next I’m being asked to audition to be: Matt Damon's body double; a space pirate; or a bishop who gets his throat cut [By Johnny Depp].

We can now add doctor in a new Russian drama to the list. No audition was necessary.

The hat makes me look like I'm about to cook crab cakes rather than cure cancer

The show is called Inheritance Marriage. I heard one woman describe it as an: "upmarket version of EastEnders". She later changed her mind to Dynasty. Maybe it's a combo of both. In suits, but very shouty.

Filming took place at Ravenscourt Park Hospital in Chiswick. I had been there before. Thirteen-years-ago I did a drug trial and earned enough money to travel to Pamplona for the Running of the Bulls festival.

This caper was worth £75. After my 'agents' 15% commission, income tax and national insurance contributions – this time I’d have enough money for the bus fare home.

At least I didn't have to sign away my rights. In my last role I signed a release form that let the production company exploit my: "ancillary rights herein throughout the universe".

Come to think about it - the universe? Media lawyers must know more than they are letting-on. Maybe David Icke is on to something. I maintained my rights on this occasion. I can only presume there is little inter-galactic demand for Russian soap operas.

I arrived on set before the scheduled 9am. The time my agent said breakfast would finish. He lied to get me there early. I headed straight for the catering truck and ordered some complimentary sausage sandwiches. I grabbed a coffee from the drinks table and sat myself down in the big blue bus. It had been refurbished to include tables and chairs. Actors and crew upstairs, supporting-artistes downstairs.

Eventually it was time to queue for wardrobe. It took over an hour. Patience and a good book are essential for extras.

My call time was 9.30 – but these things never run to schedule. The late crowd-artistes eventually turned-up. They joined the queue and devoured their fragrant bacon sarnies. Hints of grease with undertones of brown sauce lingered in the crisp morning air. I regretted I settled for sausage.

Many background-artistes have their own outfits. It helps to get work because it saves the production company money. When I first I arrived on the set I was taken-aback by the police loitering with shirts unbuttoned and stab vests unzipped. It took me a moment to realise they were extras.

I had to supply my own clothes too. For this part I wore brown cords with ankle boots and a crisp white shirt. Wardrobe added props – a white jacket, stethoscope and coloured pens for my chest pocket.

Extras are second class citizens on sets. The actors don’t talk to them; the crew brusquely bark orders at them; and when it comes to meal times – they are sent to the back of the queue

Parts were allocated before arrival. It became obvious that the production intended to reinforce racial stereotypes. The black and Asian crowd-artistes became security guards - while the white supporting-artistes became nurses, doctors, patients, reporters and police.

Art imitating life?

The stereotype that Russians were hard-drinkers was reinforced after I noticed two prop IV bags with the labels Vodka. I also noticed that they sure like a cigarette.

For obvious reasons I didn't recognise any of the actors or crew. This became apparent after I asked the director to take my photo. He gave an amused snort and took the snap. I thought he was another background-artiste. A cleaner perhaps. They're a scruffy lot, directors.

The first scene was outside. The actors had to pass half-a-dozen aggressive reporters and photographers to get into the hospital. The burly security guards helped them through the entrance and kept the jostling media at bay.

Inside, just before the cameras rolled for the next scene, I was given a white surgical cap. Apparently they are worn in Russia. It looked like it belonged in a kitchen rather than a hospital. I could have been about to cook crab cakes rather than cure cancer.

On the shout of "action" - there was a lot of walking back-and-forth with a few lip-sync conversations with nurses and patients thrown in.

	The big blue bus and catering truck

Between scenes the extras, actors and crew mingle in their own little cliques. There's a mixture of banter, awkward conversations and strange revelations to be had. One woman told me how on her last job she got chatted-up by a man who "looked like a baked bean".

It got me thinking. One theory to explain missing transitional fossils in human evolution is that aliens spliced their DNA with monkeys. Maybe they experimented with foodstuffs first. I kept my thoughts to myself.

Extras are second class citizens on sets. The actors don't talk to them; the crew brusquely bark orders at them; and when it comes to meal times – they are sent to the back of the queue.

However the food was almost worth the wait. Almost, because it's not possible to literally swallow your pride. The mains included: Cumberland Sausage and Onion Gravy; Sea Bream with lemon and garlic; and Cous Cous with Roasted Vegetables. They even throw in chocolate sponge for desert.

In the breaks you find ways to entertain yourself. I discovered that the stethoscope really did work. As the self-named Dr. Iva Nastichesticoff - I determined I had a healthy heartbeat.

The chats continued. A nurse told me about a Jordanian film she worked on. They only ever shot one take. The Russians were much more pedantic – ten-times more in fact.

In one scene I was a split-second late with my cue to walk-away from the hospital reception. It happened twice after I tried to finish my pretend conversation with the nurse. The director seemed keen to save time and film. The subsequent takes had a security guard placed between me and the camera.

As a doctor I held a prop medical file. Bizarrely it had the label Torture Foundation. What about my Hypocritical Oath? I thought. I could have been at Guantanamo Bay.

And then it happened - the most important moment of my career. In the final scene I was given a word - two in fact. Well, one that was said twice. I think that makes me an actor.

"Ackoradna, ACKORADNA" I forcefully commanded to the security guards [?] who pushed a critically ill patient on a gurney. I ran ahead and looked back anxiously with a furrowed brow and face contorted with concern.

Five weeks in St Petersburg a few years ago meant I had some knowledge of Russian. Hurry up will definitely be more useful that: caution doors closing and how much for one big banana.

After the gurney disappeared down a corridor - the two main actors took centre stage in the reception. We returned to the scene and watched from the sidelines.

The lead-actress was pretty pissed-off at the lead-actor. Her cat-like eyes were wide and wild. The mood clashed with her delicate features. Her words hissed and her voice resonated with resentment. For emphasis the sentences were punctuated with stab-like pauses. The guy didn't say much. Smart man, I thought. The more takes, the angrier she got. It was so vicious - I nearly shit-myself. The security guard next to me exercised more bowel control. "Man, If I were that guy right now - I would kiss her ," he whispered in my ear.

By the end her mood was so filthy DEFCON 1 could have been declared. The director, keen to avoid a meltdown, called it a wrap. Everyone clapped. Many stopped drooling. We could all go home. It was 4pm.

The director shook my hand afterwards. Horror-show he said. It means good in Russian. I think.

Volunteer Clocks-Up 1500 Hours

2008-07-09T15:16:00.009Z

Article Published with a byline in the regional newpaper the Bedfordshire Times & Citizen [07 August 2008]

When personal tragedy led to no family support and life in a homeless hostel for a young Bedford woman - self-pity and despondency could have swallowed her whole.

Instead Sharn Davies continued to focus her energies and turn her time into hundreds-and-hundreds of hours for a mixed bag of charitable causes.

The Bedfordshire Cerebral Palsy Society, Age Concern and the Lesbian Bisexual Gay & Transgender Youth Group have all benefited from what one volunteer manager describes as the 25-year-old’s "give it a go" attitude and "positive outlook".

Helen Sendagire of Community Service Volunteers [CSV] has been so impressed by Sharn’s prolific contributions - she has nominated her for a SkillsTrain Young Person of the Year Award, or 'YOPEY'.

Along with the best of Bedfordshire’s youth - Sharn is now in with a chance to win a share of cash from a £2000 prize pool. The winner collects £1000. In the spirit of the awards half of each prize is donated to the nominating organisation or a charity of choice.

"Sharn has dedicated over 800 hours to volunteering," said Helen.

But that may be just the tip of the iceberg according to Sharn. "That’s recorded volunteer hours, she said. "I lost count after about 1500. "I’ve been doing voluntary work for seven-years now".

For context - 1500 hours is not far from a full-time job for a whole year.

It is an edifying experience speaking to Sharn. She is unnervingly honest; straight-forward; and self-depreciating with a good memory for dates.

There is no search for sympathy in her voice - everything is said as a matter-of-fact.

"I was 18 when my dad died and 21 when my mum died, she said. "It hit me really hard".

"I relied on mum growing up to do everything for me, she said. "When she asked me to move out because she was poorly it was a shock. I didn’t even know how to pay bills".

"I moved out in January 2005 in to a homeless hostel, she said. "[Mum] wanted to see me become independent and have a life for myself".

Sharn’s mother died of lung cancer the following month.

Sharn has been a volunteer with the Bedford Cerebral Palsy Society since 2003. April 8th to be precise. The charity’s support extended to Sharn. "They helped me out and saw me through," she said.

This loyalty has been repaid with interest.

She describes her work as "mostly admin" and her job as "general dog’s body," but this seems to underestimate her contribution.

There are office chores like answering-the–phones and photocopying - but then she can also be found fixing the computers. "A couple of the computers kept dying, she said. "I had to figure out what was wrong with them". She found a corrupted hard drive and motherboard. Her diagnosis saved the charity paying for expensive IT support.

She also helps the charity apply for grants from local government and pledges from local businesses such as Woolworths, Argos and Wilkinson’s. "They donated vouchers so we can buy stuff for the kids," she said.

Support is not limited to the children, but also extends to those who look after them. We organise an: "indulgence day once a month for carers and parents with disabilities," she said.

It took time for Sharn to get used to working with Cerebral Palsy kids. "How can I explain it - it was like a culture shock," she said. Now it’s just like second nature.

She has a hands-on role in the 'Play Scheme'. It gives disabled kids a chance to mix with their peers. One event is beauty treatments for the girls. Another is ice-skating in Milton Keynes. Kids in their wheelchairs have a 'Grand Prix' session on ice. "They really love it," she said.

She makes an effort to spend time with each of the kids. "Even ones who are less able to walk and talk really appreciate you coming up and seeing how they are instead of ignoring them," she said.

The best part of the job is: "When I see how happy the kids are, she said. "It’s so rewarding to see their happy faces".

Sharn was also a volunteer for the Lesbian Bisexual Gay & Transgender Youth Group. LGBT is a forum for young people upto the 24-years-old to get together and discuss issues. "I gate-crashed meetings for a couple of months, she said. "Eventually the coordinator asked if I would like a job". Sharn helped to find premises, funding for computers and arranged a day-trip to Gay Pride in London.

For two years on-and-off Sharn was also a volunteer shop assistant in an Age Concern Charity shop.

Sharn came to Helen’s attention through Community Service Volunteers. The organisation provides recognition and accreditation for volunteers.

Through CSV Sharn has completed the nationally recognised ASDAN qualification in Community Volunteering. "I was the second youngest in the class," she said with pride. "Everyone else was their late thirties or forties. "It’s a qualification, and it proves I’m not a lazy so and so".

Not content just to roll-up her own sleeves – Sharn also encourages youths to get involved in the community.

As an ambassador for the CSV run 'V' Bedfordshire Youth Volunteering - Sharn helps project staff to "come up with new volunteering ideas and placements, said Helen. "Everyone knows her. She has great contacts in the area".

YOPEY is the creation of former national newspaper journalist Tony Gearing, who became tired of young people’s ‘bad press’. The competition has spread across six counties and over £50,000 has been won at 22 awards ceremonies.

The father of two teenagers hopes the good press inspires other youngsters to give to the community and leads to a more accurate picture of the young today.

Nominations are now open for the SkillsTrain YOPEY in Beds. Visit: www.yopey.org for details and to see the latest nominees and previous winners.

Anyone can apply – this includes young people themselves. Nominees must be aged between 10-25, live, work or study in Bedfordshire, and give to others at home or abroad.

Applications can also be made by post. Send a SAE to: Young People of the Year, PO Box 103, Hare Street, Ware SG9 0XD for an entry form.

Toe The Line

2008-07-01T12:09:00.044Z

I discovered yesterday that the Tesco Superstore in Osterley doesn't allow people to shop without shoes on.

The security guards informed me this is due to health and safety.

This is a neat piece of unspeak which should automatically end any debate on the matter.

You would think...

If exposed feet were a real and likely health and safety issue - there would be a ban on open toed sandals and jandals too. Everyone would have to wear Kevlar gumboots.

What is more - local government would have been on to it years ago. Councils would have made a killing in fines from the shoeless.

Bare feet are a cultural and social tradition for the peoples of the South Pacific. This includes New Zealand. Tens-of-thousands Kiwis, Samoans, Fijians, Tongans and Solomon Islanders live in the UK. To deny them access to essential services based on their cultural and social traditions is clear discrimination.

The prevailing opinion is that bare feet are unhygienic. Not so. Most people clean their feet [in the shower or bath] daily. Invisible muck is on their feet for less than 24 hours. People with shoes hardly-ever clean their footwear. The muck remains for months, years. It could be argued that to wear shoes is a filthy habit.

And, just to put-the-boot-in and state-the-obvious:

To have bare feet is the default position.

To date no child has been born with Adidas attached to their appendages.

Much to the dismay of many a marketing department.

Back to Tesco.

It's concern for staff and customer welfare is challenged by the loudspeaker at the top and bottom of the escalators.

Caution you are coming to the end of the travelator. Please push your trolley off the end of the travelator.

It repeats over-and-over with only a few seconds as an interval.

I would estimate the announcement is between 60 - 70 decibels - the noise range between a normal conversation and a vacuum cleaner. It is loud.

The United Nations says:

Noise is an increasingly omnipresent, yet underestimated, form of pollution. Long periods of exposure to relatively low levels of noise can have adverse effects on human health, such as raised blood pressure, hypertension, disrupted sleep and cognitive development in children, diminished working memory span, and psychiatric disorders. [United Nations]

Repeated administration of noise is considered torture.

It is used at Guantanamo Bay. There it is called: acoustic bombardment.

Tesco calls it health and safety.

However the bare-foot-ban raises another issue.

Tesco controls nearly a third of the UK grocery market [BBC]. One pound in every seven that is spent in British shops goes through its tills [Telegraph].

In places like Inverness it is said that Tesco has a "near monopoly". [BBC].

Economies of scale mean everytime a Tesco superstore opens - local shops can't compete with the prices - and go out of business.

This gives consumers fewer and fewer choices and means anyone who doesn't abide by Tesco laws may have to travel miles to buy necessities, such as food.

The ability to travel miles is subject to additional cost and dependent on access to transportation.

Now, no bill has ever passed through parliament to require people to wear shoes.

But a public company [listed on the stock exchange]; with local monopolies; that provides an essential public service - can designate its space as private, and make-up its own rules.

What is more, if these private rules are broken - rules which are not laws - then the police are obliged to enforce them.

Even if these rules are discriminatory and interfere with basic human rights.

It doesn't end with feet.

Although Tesco are yet to ban people who wear hooded tops and baseball caps - that has not prevented many other stores and shopping malls [BBC].

Presumably Santa Claus and nuns receive special dispensation.

It all begs the question: Who makes the rules that allows society to function? Who is actually running the show?

If you think this rant is about shoes, or lack of them - think again.

Something stinks - and it's not my feet.

Teens Save Girl Guide Unit

2008-06-30T13:31:00.009Z

'Be prepared' is their motto, and when the situation arose - that’s exactly what two Bedfordshire Girl Guides were.

When no adult leader could be found to look after a group of five to seven-year-old girl guides - Emma Spencer from Great Billington and Dulcie Wyatt from Leighton Buzzard stepped in.

Their intervention saved many of the girls from giving-up guiding.

Under the teenagers’ leadership - the 1st Leighton Buzzard Rainbows operated normally from Christmas until Easter - the time it took to find an adult to take over.

"Without them the Rainbow unit would have closed," said Debbie Docherty, the Division Commander for Girlguiding South Bedfordshire, "Most likely permanently".

She has jointly nominated the girls for a SkillsTrain Young Person of the Year Award or 'YOPEY'.

Along with the best of Bedfordshire’s youth - it means the girls now have the chance to win a share of a £2000 prize pool.

The top prize is £1000 and in the spirit of the awards half of each prize gets donated to the nomination organisation or a charity of choice.

YOPEY is the creation of former national newspaper journalist Tony Gearing. The awards ceremony has revealed recognised and rewarded positive young role models throughout six counties since 2004.

My house is full of hundreds of cardboard toilet rolls. We make everything from rocket ships to sheep

The Hertfordshire father of two teenagers hopes the exposure inspires other youngsters to give to the community and leads to a more accurate youth image in the media.

Its aims are echoed by Dulcie’s mum. "Most kids are positive and hard working and just want to help one and another," said Nicola Wyatt, a Learning Support assistant at Gilbert Inglefield School. "They don’t deserve the bad press they get".

The Rainbows meet every Wednesday between 4.45 -5.45pm at Leedon Lower School in Highfield Road.

The early meeting time makes it difficult to attract leaders, said Debbie Docherty. It means many working mothers can’t contribute. This was the situation the Rainbows faced when their guide leader left in December.

Conscious of the distress it would have caused for the young girls - Emma and Dulcie took over. "Emma and I had to step in pretty quickly," said Dulcie. "The unit would have closed in a matter of weeks," she said. "It was incredibly important to keep it going," said Emma.

While there are other Rainbow units in-and-around Leighton Buzzard - they are all full. "The girls would have been put on a waiting list or stopped guiding altogether," said Dulcie.

Dulcie who studies at Aylesbury High School and Emma who attends Cedars Upper School in Leighton Buzzard have not only saved the unit – but have managed to treble its numbers.

On their own initiative the girls organised bring a friend night. "At the time there were six rainbows, but now the number has grown to 18 – now we’ve got a full group," said Dulcie.

In the absence of an adult leader, the girls were responsible for the planning and running of the weekly Rainbow meetings – although due to the age of the children, with background adult supervision.

Responsibilities ranged from the serious to the fun. There were lessons on road safety, stranger danger, dental care and how to look after pets. And then there were games, drawing, decorating cakes with hundreds-and-thousands and crafts.

"My house is full of hundreds of cardboard toilet rolls," said Emma. She brings them to meetings along with cotton wool. We make everything from rocket ships to sheep, she said. "You can use them for anything".

Despite their tender years Rainbows get involved in the community and collect money for charity in a variety of ways like: sponsored skips, gardening and supermarket bag-packing.

Both girls are excited at the prospect of YOPEY recognition - but it was never their motivation. "We’re incredibly proud to have saved the unit," said Emma.

"It’s volunteer work. Your reward is the satisfaction you get," said Dulcie. "It’s nice to know something you do at 15 can make a difference".

Nominations are now open for the SkillsTrain YOPEY in Beds. Visit www.yopey.org for details and to see the latest nominees and previous winners.

Anyone can apply – this includes young people themselves. Nominees must be aged between 10-25, live, work or study in Bedfordshire, and give to others at home or abroad.

Applications can also be made by post. Send a SAE to: Young People of the Year, PO Box 103, Hare Street, Ware SG9 0XD for an entry form.

Women As Weapons Of Mass Civil Disobedience

2008-06-24T16:50:00.013Z

In the UK, a pregnant woman can legally relieve herself anywhere she wants.

Even, if she so requests, in a policeman’s helmet [TimesOnline].

There is unexploited potential in this law.

Pregnant women could be used as weapons of mass civil disobedience.

The tactics of outspoken women's rights campaigner Germaine Greer were all wrong.

Less berate and more micturate would have advanced the feminist cause by decades.

A misogynistic institution could have 100 banged-up sisters legally slash their way through its foyer.

Now I've planted the seed - I'm off to buy Barbour shares.

Gumboots sales are about to go through the roof.

Model Passengers

2008-06-24T15:10:00.031Z

Finally someone has proper lost their rag after British Airways lost their bag.

What surprises me is that it doesn't happen more often.

Especially as the numbers confirm what most people know already.

British Airways is the worst airline in Europe.

The Association of European Airlines puts BA at the bottom, or near bottom, of every punctuality and baggage category.

In the first three months of this year - BA had more: baggage delays; late departures; and late arrivals than any other airline within Europe.

The previous quarter wasn't much better.

British Airways was six-times more likely to lose passengers bags than Turkish Airways. Czech Airways managed to organise nearly 50% more on-time shorthaul departures.

Yet most Brits meet news of delays, cancellations and lost baggage with a stoic resilience reminiscent of the Blitz.

In fact many prepare in the same way - with playing cards, a book and water.

The public have been conditioned to cheerfully accept inconvenience.

What is more - passengers regulate each others behaviour on behalf of the airline. Mustn't grumble, after all.

Anyone who derogates from this collective mass passive-ism is rounded-on and vilified. They are worse thought-of than the airline that has parked them on the departures lounge floor for six hours.

This makes for model passengers.

Naomi Campbell is her own woman. She doesn't have any baggage.

But not for supermodel passengers.

Police recently forcibly removed Naomi Campbell from a BA flight after a one-woman-sit-in over missing baggage. [The Scotsman]

A sit-in is a legitimate from of protest for social change. It has been used by political leaders from Mahatma Gandhi to Martin Luther King and Nelson Mandela.

Her stand, while seated, should have created a consumer rights martyr – as most people can empathise with her situation.

Instead the incident was framed by the press in such a way as to consolidate her position as the number one pantomime villain in a media driven celebrity circus.

The spat turned to spit and exploded after the incendiary Campbell was called a "Golliwog Supermodel" by BA staff, she says.

I'm not even sure what that means - but it doesn't sound good.

In response, an airline statement said: "British Airways does not accept any allegations of racism".

Notice that BA doesn't deny the allegation, or that racism exists - it just doesn’t accept allegations.

A good thing too. If it did - it would have to listen to Captain Doug Maughan.

The British Airways pilot of 15-years says that derogatory race remarks by his colleagues are so common they are treated as normal.

Mr Maughan went public after British Airways management failed to take his complaints about racism by senior staff seriously.

Even an email to chief executive, Willie Walsh, resulted in no action, he says [The Telegraph].

At the end of the last financial year British Airways reported a record 45% increase in annual profit. The airline made £883 million - that's over £100,000 an hour. Staff bonuses were nearly £50 million.

With the business doing so well - there is no need to take issues like institutional racism and consumer rights seriously.

After all: if it ain't broke - don't fix it.

Aunt & Niece Change Youth Scene And More

2008-06-23T13:02:00.012Z

The local youth scene in-and-around Aylesbury is about to change for the better thanks to two local related teens.

19-year-old Nabeela Begum and 14-year-old Zeenat Begum gave-up several hours a week for two months to examine youth clubs in the area.

As volunteer Peer Inspectors for Buckinghamshire County Council’s youth service the aunt and niece made sure club rules were followed and collected feedback so they could make recommendations on how to improve the service.

Rebecca Fetterman, Youth Project Co-ordinator with the youth service, was so impressed by the girls she put them forward for a SkillsTrain Young People of the Year Award, also known as ‘YOPEY’.

Nabeela who has just finished her A-levels at Sir Henry Floyd Grammar and Zeenat, who attends Quarrendon School, are now in with a chance to win the top prize of £1,000 in a contest with £2,000 to give to young people who give to others.

However the nomination has revealed that inspection work is only the tip-of-the-iceberg - especially from Nabeela.

Family, friends and strangers, young and old, have benefited from numerous hours of volunteering and charity fundraising. And then there are years of care work.

Rebecca said Nabeela and Zeenat went ‘above and beyond’ the call of duty and contributed to the success of the project.

"They did all their inspections and covered for the other young people when they pulled out at the last minute," she said. "They designed the young peoples’ questionnaire and volunteered to be mentors for the next inspectors".

In addition they helped to set the inspection criteria and code of conduct.

As Peer Inspectors Nabeela and Zeenat visited Grange Youth Centre in Wendover Way, Aylesbury; Winslow Youth Centre in Avenue Road; and the Green Park Centre in Stablebridge Road, Aston Clinton – to name a few. They reported their findings back to the county council’s youth service.

Their main recommendations included more variety, outdoor activities, excursions, additional safety precautions and an older teen emphasis.

The project has allowed the girls and the club users a say in how the youth service is run, said Rebecca. "Feedback goes all the way to the top managers".

I would like to see the clubs be somewhere teens can: do their homework, relax and talk about any issues they might have, said Nabeela.

"I think more people will come to the youth clubs because of our recommendations," said Zeenat. "We have shown them exactly what kids want."

The project has also served to develop and empower the girls.

"I feel much more positive about myself because I’m doing something to change the youth environment," said Nabeela. "This has boosted my confidence".

"I’m very proud of what I have done," said Zeenat. "People have listened to my ideas".

Recognition doesn’t end with the YOPEY nomination. As a result of their youth work - the girls have also earned the nationally accredited Bronze Youth Achievement Award.

However, it turns out their work as peer inspectors is just the cover page in a catalogue of community contributions.

The girls are proof that ‘charity begins at home’ – but does not necessarily end there.

This was demonstrated when after her GCSEs, Nabeela took a year out of school to help her sister Noor cope with depression after her three-year-old son Kasar died suddenly of unknown causes. "I would aid my sister with her day-to-day life," said Nabeela.

She roped in Zeenat, Noor’s eldest child, and together they helped with the house chores. They also took on the role of carers for Noor’s other three children, then aged seven and five and a new baby who came along at the time.

Together they cleaned, dressed and fed the kids. In addition they took them to school and picked them up in the afternoon.

Then there was the emotional assistance. "I had to constantly reassure my sister about the loss," said Nabeela. "Although I could not give her answers, I had to support her to try to get on with her life".

Back at home - Nabeela is also on hand. "I help care for my nan who is diabetic and has coronary heart disease," she said. "I have to remind her to take her pills and go with her to her blood test appointments with the doctor and appointments in the hospital".

"My family life also involves constantly reassuring my mum who suffers from Obsessive Compulsive Disorder," she said.

Those who suffer from the medical condition are often unable to complete what could be considered the most simple of activities. "I do my mum’s shopping for her because she becomes very panicky in overcrowded places. I also remind her to take her tablets".

But the responsibility rather than being a burden has been a benefit. "I believe that caring from a young age has made me a stronger person," said Nabeela.

It is a lot for a young woman to cope with, especially one with her own pressures, such as A-level exams - so it is reassuring to learn that she too has help.

It comes from family, like Zeenat, and from organisations like Carers Bucks. The organisation looks after people who care for others. "They give me and my family a lot of support and often offer to take us on days out," said Nabeela.

Nabeela also rolls up her sleeves and mucks in when it comes to charity. One such event organised through her school was for ‘Student Aid’. "Its main aim is to raise enough money for rebuilding a deaf and blind children school in India," she said. One event raised £7000.

"I helped to organise an ‘Indian evening’," she said. "I was in charge of ordering food; decorating the school hall; serving the guests; and cleaning up afterwards until 12am. I also helped wash cars to raise money for the event".

Another charity that benefited from Nabeela’s help is LEPRA. "It’s a medical development charity with a mission to restore health, hope and dignity to people affected by leprosy and other diseases of poverty in parts of the world," she said. "I went door-to-door fundraising and raised about £100".

Nabeela also acts as an Interpreter for many people in the Pakistani community. She translates English, Pashto and a little bit of Punjabi. "I often have to attend appointments with people who speak little English and interpret at parents evening for their children," she said.

She also uses her language skills to help young children who have difficulty reading and writing, especially those for whom English is not their first language.

Just when you think there is no more the young livewire can do – she pulls another rabbit out of the hat. Then another.

"I worked in a children’s nursery called 'Rosie’s Little People' in Aylesbury," she said. "And I volunteered to work in Elmhurst Nursery for work experience. I am also volunteering to work in Stoke Mandeville hospital and an old people’s home".

YOPEY aims to reward positive young role models like Nabeela and Zeenat and to inspire other youngsters to give to the community.

The Hertfordshire father of two has seen the idea grow and spread into 22 successful awards ceremonies across six counties in four years.

Nominations for the SkillsTrain YOPEY in Buckinghamshire close in September and an awards ceremony will be held in the county in October.

Anyone can apply – this includes young people themselves. Nominees must be aged between 10-25, live, work or study in Bucks, and give to others at home or abroad.

Visit: www.yopey.org for details and to see the latest nominees and previous winners.

Applications can also be made by post. Send a SAE to: Young People of the Year, PO Box 103, Hare Street, Ware SG9 0XD for an entry form.

Head Girl Organises Her Way To Awards Ceremony

2008-06-16T14:17:00.019Z

An edited version of this article can be found on the Young People of the Year website [yopey.org] and in local media [Luton Today].

Rebecca Munns is a busy young woman.

When the Harlington teenager isn’t volunteering; raising cash for charity; being a peer educator; or representing her school as Head Girl - she can be found at home helping out with her football team size family. The number includes subs.

Mum, dad and ten other brothers and sisters make the American sitcom The Brady Bunch look like 2.4 children.

Rebecca Munns. Picture available from [yopey.org]

It is for all these efforts combined that the 18-year-old has been put forward for a SkillsTrain Young People of the Year award or ‘YOPEY’.

Along with the best of Bedfordshire’s youth - she now has a chance to win a share of £2,000 - the top prize is £1000 cash.

In the spirit of the awards – half of each prize is donated to a charity of choice.

The nomination comes from an impressed Food Technology teacher at Harlington Upper School.

Claire Martin says Rebecca is: "very mature, and always willing to help others," and: "she always gives 101% to everything she does".

Her school reference is equalling glowing. It describes her as: "compassionate and thoughtful to others" and a: "very hardworking, intelligent, well-organised and determined young lady".

YOPEY aims to reveal, recognise and reward positive young role models like Rebecca. It hopes a more accurate picture of the younger generation will reassure adults and inspire other youngsters to give to the community.

The fundraising has been clean-cut and colourful. It included: leg-waxing, head-shaving and nail-painting. And that was the guys

It is the brainchild of former national newspaper journalist Tony Gearing. The Hertfordshire father of two teenagers has seen the idea grow and spread into 22 successful awards ceremonies over six counties.

Rebecca has helped to raise money through various church groups and the school council. It involved a mixture of events for a variety of causes.

Directly she has taken an active roll. Rebecca organised, promoted and managed many events.

The fundraising has been clean-cut and colourful. It included: leg-waxing, head-shaving and nail-painting. And that was the guys. A little more traditional were the cake stalls and coffee mornings.

Then there were the different Pink and Red Nose Days - where everyone dresses in pink and wears a red nose. Not at the same time mind. A touch of tension and suspense was added in Deal-or-no-Deal style competitions.

She also organised gift donations for Bedfordshire’s less fortunate children at Christmas time.

Charities that have benefited from hairless and questionably fashionable Bedfordshire youth include: Breast Cancer Research; McMillan Cancer Support; Comic Relief and Children in Need

Rebecca estimates that many thousand of pounds have been raised.

Her contributions have not stopped at fundraising. She has embraced both her school role and the charity causes she has been involved with.

She mentored younger students: chaired the school council; and led drugs-and-alcohol peer education campaigns at Harlington and local middle schools. She also gave up time to help at school functions. In addition there was personal involvement by partying and fundraising with severely disabled young adults.

Rebecca is also a volunteer for the Harlington Parish Council and at a local Baptist church – where she helps to organise activity afternoons for 8-13 year-olds. Entertainments include: competitions, different sports, crafts, swimming and outings.

To top it all off when she wasn’t busy with her studies and A2 level exams, she worked as a cleaner part-time.

But it’s when she gets home the real work starts. She helps out full-time mum Carolyn and Insurance Broker dad George around the house. "I’m one of eleven," she said. As the second eldest it means a lot of responsibility and "a lot of nannying". The youngest is 22 months. Then there is the double trouble in the four-year-old twins.

"I’m always cooking, cleaning and dressing them up [her brothers & sisters] for school and what not," she said.

Her home life may have given her focus for the future. She intends to study Nutrition and Food Science at the University of Surrey. She hopes it will lead to a job in the food industry.

"How do you keep on top of all?" YOPEY asks. "I manage my time quite well. I don’t like to be sitting still for too long. I’m always on my feet running around," she says.

Literally. In her spare time she goes jogging and plays hockey and netball. When not running around - she does her own sewing, seamstressing and baking. "I’m always making birthday cakes," she says.

Nominations are now open for the SkillsTrain YOPEY in Beds. Visit www.yopey.org for details and to see the latest nominees and previous winners.

Anyone can apply – this includes young people themselves. Nominees must be aged between 10-25 and give to others at home or abroad.

Applications can also be made by post. Send a SAE to: Young People of the Year, PO Box 103, Hare Street, Ware SG9 0XD for an entry form.

NO IFS, NO BUTS

2008-06-10T21:15:00.031Z

The Department for Work and Pensions has a menacing new advertising campaign. It's called - NO IFS NO BUTS.

It highlights the tough line the government agency takes with those who misuse public funds.

Maybe a few posters could be put-up around the halls of Westminster Palace.

The Commons Speaker, Michael Martin, recently claimed £4,280.20 in expenses for taxis. It related to his wife's supermarket shopping expeditions. [TimesOnline].

His job is to review taxpayer-funded parliamentary allowances.

The Conservative Party chairman, Caroline Spelman, once used taxpayer-funded expenses to pay her nanny [The Telegraph].

Her job is to make sure Tory MPs do not abuse their taxpayer-funded expenses.

Former Leader of the Conservative MEPs, Giles Chichester, broke the rules. He allowed his expenses to be channelled through a family business of which he is a paid director.

He called the oversight a whoops-a-daisy moment. [BBC]

His job was to draw up a new code of practice for MEPs' expenses.

Four wheels bad - two wheels good

2008-06-09T22:04:00.046Z

Everyone knows one. They may be your friend, your brother or even your grandfather. Mothers hold their children close as one comes near. People mumble under their breath as they pass. Others yell at them. Strangers attack them. Dogs even chase them.

They are cyclists and they are everywhere.

Cyclists in London are resented with the venom usually reserved for serial killers. More so in fact. As a humane-and-just-society we afford serial killers the full protection of the law. Cyclists however are fair game. This was confirmed when 84-year-old Tory peer Baroness Sharples recently took her handbag to one.

Her actions were endorsed by Lord Bassam in the House of Lords. She said her only regret was that she didn't hit him harder. Fortunately her handbag was largely empty. She hadn’t picked-up the sherry from Waitrose yet.

Old bag hits cyclist [Daily Mail]

While peers wrap handbags around cyclists ears - the mainstream media is content to run them down. Literally and metaphorically.

The usually sensible Times columnist Matthew Parris would like to chop their heads-off. "What’s smug and deserves to be decapitated?" - he wrote.

The Sun motoring correspondent Emma Parker Bowles would like to see their "humane extermination".

And author, columnist and Top Gear presenter Jeremy Clarkson calls them: "The Lycra-Nazi sandalistas of Islington". He says: "Do not cruise through red lights. Because if I'm coming the other way, I will run you down, for fun"

He once boasted that he drove 186-miles-an-hour on a London road used by cyclists. That's the same speed as Eurostar. Dickhead.

Say zebra crossing to a pedestrian and they are more likely to think of the Serengeti migration than a designated point to cross the road

If such language were used against any other section of society, say: pensioners, vegetarians or Jehovah’s Witnesses - the hubric protagonists would find themselves in the dock charged with hate crimes.

I don't think iffy humour or irony would be a successful defence.

It is lucky that cyclists are a hardy lot. Sardonic hot air rolls like water off their Gore-Tex backs.

Sure they are a little existential with the road rules - but it could be expected of people who brave the school run by pedal and weather so dire even ducks go indoors.

The road rules were designed to cater for cars not bicycles. Many situations require cyclists to break the rules to stay safe.

Take red lights.

When a light goes from red to green a cyclist starts to pedal with jerky lateral movements until momentum can be gained. This is not only dangerous for the cyclist - but it also disrupts traffic flow.

Then there are footpaths.

A cyclist may use one to: get around illegally parked cars on narrow roads; avoid treacherous traffic snarls; and to dodge Jeremy Clarkson.

It is better for motorists and safer for cyclists that they pedal through red lights and ride on footpaths.

Other road users are not so altruistic.

Say zebra crossing to a pedestrian and they are more likely to think of the Serengeti migration than a designated point to cross the road.

While drivers consider indicators and hands-free mobile phone kits as optional extras.

There are 10,000,000 fines dished out to motorists every year. And that’s just the parking and speeding tickets.

Boris Johnson [allegedly] talking on his mobile while cycling

A better indicator of drivers' etiquette is the 268,000 people killed or injured in vehicle accidents every year.

If that’s not anti social behaviour – I don’t know what is.

It is not only your common-garden-variety cyclist that would rather risk death than travel on the tube and who break laws to stay safe.

It is also Conservative Politicians.

Days after he was elected - the new Mayor was filmed: "cycling through six red lights, failing to stop at a zebra crossing and mounting the pavement".

And then there is the leader of the opposition.

David Cameron was filmed "cycling the wrong way up a one-way street, jumping a red light and ignoring a ‘keep left’ bollard".

Mind you, Boris has rather let the side down by not stopping at the pedestrian crossing and [allegedly] talking on his mobile phone while cycling.

The former Mayor's solution to the problem was registration. Ken Livingston wanted number plates on bicycles. Congestion charge collector Capita’s ears would have pricked-up at the suggestion.

Thankfully it was never implemented. The courts could not have coped with the extra burden created by five-year-olds on footpaths - and Tories.

All the politics and bickering aside - cyclists, flaws and all, may be humanity's saviour.

They can cut overcrowding on public transport; improve the health of the nation and reduce hospital waiting lists.

Oh, and on a global scale - they could reduce mankind’s dependence on fossil fuels and prevent the entire planet from turning into a microwave oven.

Forget the hug-a-hoodie compassion shown by David Cameron. Let's cuddle-a-cyclist instead.

Spring Tulips

2008-06-05T21:52:00.009Z

Warning Sign of the Times

2008-06-05T19:51:00.009Z

There was almost a heath and safety disaster at my workplace today.

A small puddle of water was left on the floor next to the elevators. It was there all day.

The water wasn't such a hazzard mind. The warning-sign was a different matter.

	Caution Big Dangerous Sign.

I almost tripped over the bloody thing as I left the lift.

Alcohol Down the Tube

2008-06-04T21:29:00.022Z

The infirm, children, chocoholics and Christmas revellers may soon become criminals.

In a crack-down against anti-social behaviour - it is now against London Underground rules to consume alcohol on the tube. The dictate is set to become law next year.

Anyone poorly caught supping their GSK Night Nurse will be ordered off the train. The medicine contains 18% alcohol. Four-times more than the average beer.

The sick may be forced to look for alternative treatments. Swap one vice for another. Benylin Cough and Congestion Syrup is alcohol free but contains pseudoephedrine. Also known as speed. It is available from any good pharmacy without prescription.

This is how it all starts. They'll be on crack-cocaine next.

It is expected the festive season and brandy laced mini Christmas puddings will lead to mass expulsions.

Biscuits eaters may also be ejected. Certain varieties of chocolate Tim Tams contain alcohol. Not to forget those who like to nibble on liqueur chocolates.

Alcohol has also been found in crisps. Kids who eat Walkers Sensations Thai Sweet Chilli and Doritos Chilli Heat Waves may have to walk home.

However, some common sense has prevailed. No limit has been set on how much alcohol can be transported - provided it is in your stomach.

This may actually be the real issue.

A London Underground think-tank continues to explore ways to protect commuters from antisocial behaviour.

Ideas mooted are: double fares to prevent overcrowding; reduce services to improve punctuality; and to ban mastication. Too many people chew gum on the tube.

London Underground’s 46 page Conditions of Carriage document can be found at tfl.gov.uk

It's about 42 pages longer than the US Declaration of Independence.

Feed the World (with KFC)

2008-06-04T17:11:00.025Z

In a noble demonstration of corporate good - KFC now collect money for World Hunger Relief.

Colonel Burgers for The Congo? KFC feeds the world perhaps.

If we extend this logic to other sectors:

Hilton Hotels could house the homeless;

Or UK weapons company BAE could collect money for those who need guns.*

Save the world. Eat KFC.

*Actually BAE do – but that’s another story.

Perhaps the proposition isn’t so ridiculous after all. I’m going to mention it at my local.

Maybe the Dog and Duck could collect money for the beerless.

Too Few Hours in a day for Bedfordshire Teen

2008-06-02T21:51:00.017Z

Edited versions of this article can be found on the Young People of the Year website [Yopey.org] and in local media [Bedford Today] [Luton on Sunday]

If you have ever wished there were more hours in a day – spare a thought for Luton teenager Sabath Shazia.

The last year has seen the 18-year-old successfully juggle: college exams; work experience; voluntary care work; and charity fund-raising - all while suffering the debilitating effects of Crohn’s disease.

Sabath Shazia. Picture available from [Bedford Today]

Her efforts have not gone unnoticed and she may soon have one more ball-in-the-air with a prize ceremony attendance.

Sabath has been put forward for a SkillsTrain Young Person of the Year (YOPEY) Award. Along with the best of Bedfordshire’s youth she will be in with a chance to win a £1000 cash prize – half of which is to be donated to a charity of choice.

The nomination comes from staff members at Luton Sixth Form College.

Business Studies teachers Sufian Sadiq and Bob James have both been left in awe by the A level Accounting student. She is: "an amazing role model for young people," they said. She has a: "personality and charisma which inspires everyone that she comes into contact with".

YOPEY aims to reveal, recognise and reward positive young role models like Sabath. It hopes to portray a more accurate picture of the younger generation - to reassure adults and to inspire others to give to the community.

These efforts are remarkable for one so young but made extraordinary because of her medical condition

It is the brainchild of former broadsheet editor Tony Gearing. The Hertfordshire father of two teenagers has seen the idea sprout and spread into 22 successful awards ceremonies over six counties.

Sabath’s strengths are evident in everything she does. These are organisation and time management. She uses these talents to help others as needed - home and abroad.

This was shown when she planned a fundraiser for victims of the November Bangladesh cyclone. £2000 was collected.

Closer to home a further £1400 was raised to help buy a new minibus for students with disabilities at the local specialist school Lady Zia Werner.

Ventures to raise money ranged from the traditional in bucket donations - to the lateral in: PlayStation, doughnut-eating and arm-wresting competitions.

Then there is the week-in and week-out help. Every Saturday Sabath can be found at Friends of Bright Eyes as a volunteer carer. The local charity provides support for young children with disabilities. She also uses her management accounts experience to help look after the organisation’s books.

On top of it all were her school studies and work experience at Clancy Computer Services every Friday.

Sabath may have now finished her college studies - but she shows no sign of slowing down

"How do you manage?" I asked amazed. "I have a strict routine and use my time wisely at home and at college," she said. More importantly: "I get a lot of support from my family".

Her cousin Farzana Azam, 29, is visiting from Manchester. "I’m really proud of her," she said. "All she does and what she has achieved. "She has always got a smile on her face. "If you saw her you would never know there was anything wrong".

These efforts are remarkable for one so young but made extraordinary because of her medical condition.

Crohn’s is a type of inflammatory bowel disease. It mainly affects the intestines but can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms can include stomach pains, diarrhoea, constipation, vomiting and weight loss or gain. There is no known cure – only treatment options to control the symptoms. For Sabath this involves ten tablets a day and regular hospital visits.

"Sometimes I get very dizzy, tired and lazy," she said. But this can usually be fixed with a special energy milkshake. Her condition is under control today - but last year the situation was quite serious. I mentioned the Crohn’s: "How does it affect you?". "Oh that," she said. "It’s not very major".

Two-months in hospital and a further three-months off school suggest otherwise. Despite this she achieved the highest marks in class last year.

Sabath may have now finished her college studies - but she shows no sign of slowing down. She hopes to become a Chartered Accountant and soon starts an apprenticeship with Luton property management company Peverel OM.

In the meantime she has set up her own business. "It’s called Infinite Beauty," she said. I do Henna painting, bridal make-up and wedding photography. I’ve got business cards already and hope to set up a website.

If that weren't enough - she has just started work at Ash-Shams school in Luton. As a personal support teacher she will provide one-on-one student assistance.

"If you win the Bedfordshire Young Person of the Year – what will you do with the prize money?" I ask. "Split the money over various charities," she said.

I'm thinking she could book a holiday instead.

Nominations are now open for the 2008 Bedfordshire Young People of the Year Awards. Visit: www.yopey.org for details and to see the latest nominees and previous winners.

Anyone can apply – this includes young people themselves. Nominees must be aged between 10-25 and give to others at home or abroad.

Applications can also be made by post. Send a SAE to: Young People of the Year, PO Box 103, Hare Street, Ware SG9 0XD for an entry form.

It’s all Character and Charity for ‘The Terrier’

2008-05-26T22:08:00.006Z

His teacher thinks he is: "a live wire"; His football team nickname is: "the terrier"; and his father calls him a: "little fighter".

You could be forgiven for thinking they were all describing former Chelsea footballer Denis Wise rather than Hazlemere eleven-year-old Gregory Frost.

It’s a comparison the enthusiastic and likeable young Arsenal fan is sure to screw his nose up at.

The year-seven student from Sir William Ramsay School in High Wycombe is in contention for upto £1000 cash in the SkillsTrain Young People of the Year (YOPEY) Awards.

His mother Alison is elated by the nomination "We are very proud of him," she said.

YOPEY Buckinghamshire was set-up two-years-ago to reveal, recognise and reward positive young role models. It hopes to portray a more accurate picture of the younger generation to reassure adults and inspire other young people to give to the community.

It all requires strengths of character that would fully test an adult – let alone a young man

It is the brainchild of former broadsheet editor Tony Gearing. The Hertfordshire father of two teenagers has seen the idea sprout and spread into 22 successful awards ceremonies over six counties.

Greg has been recognised for his recent charity work and positive attitude in the face of adversity. He was put forward by his teacher Sarah Allen. "This young man is an inspiration to us all," she said. "[He] is always happy, he doesn't moan and he just wants to help others achieve their goals".

Greg suffers from Arnold Chiari Malformation (ACM) Type 1. His father Howard has been also afflicted. The condition sees part of the brain dip in to a cavity next to the spinal cord. Along with fatigue and aches, the pressure often causes migraine type headaches. It is a pain that both Howard and Greg describe as: "wearing a swimming cap several sizes too small".

School rules mean that Greg wears a safety helmet when active. According to his teacher Sarah, that is: "most of the time". His father says it is similar to the one worn by Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Čech.

It does single him out as different to his peers. His parents are conscious of the fact. "We are trying to find the balance between protecting him physically and mentally," Howard said. If the ACM weren’t enough, Greg is small for his age and suffers rhinitis – which results in a constant runny nose.

It all requires strengths of character that would fully test an adult – let alone a young man.

Because of his conditions Greg has developed maturity and empathy beyond his years

Greg seems oblivious to all these concerns. He sees these factors as more inconvenience than impediment. "It makes me a bit angry, he said. "It stops me doing some sports I like doing. It’s quite annoying."

His nickname may be well deserved. The Penn Rangers with ‘the terrier’ in defence recently won an U12’s six-a-side football tournament. They didn’t concede a goal the entire competition.

Because of his conditions Greg has developed maturity and empathy beyond his years. When he saw Children in Need on television: "he wanted to do something about it," his father Howard said.

He roped in his mate Elliott and together with their school’s support - they organised a charity fun run. Teachers and students all took part and nearly £400 was raised.

Buoyed by the success, he has future plans for what sound like a carnival. There’ll be a fun race, face paint, games and sponsored sport, he said. Money raised will go to: "lots of different charities".

My thoughts on the matter are - try stopping him.

Nominations are now open for the 2008 Buckinghamshire Young People of the Year Awards. Visit: www.yopey.org for details and to see the latest nominees and previous winners.

Anyone can apply – this includes young people themselves. Nominees must be aged between 10-25 and give to others at home or abroad.

Applications can also be made by post. Send a SAE to: Young People of the Year, PO Box 103, Hare Street, Ware SG9 0XD for an entry form.

YOPEY Hertfordshire

2008-05-15T15:58:00.019Z

There is more to today's youth than ASBOs and attitude. YOPEY reporter Steve Cooke got to meet some remarkable young people who just might change the world

On the day Herefordshire’s youth were celebrated for their contributions to communities home and abroad - the Guardian front page reported that the Home Secretary Jacqui Smith has urged the Police to harass anti-social youths. [Guardian]

For some perspective she might have done better to visit Hertford County Hall.

On Thursday the 08th of May it was the venue for 20 young finalists made-up of 14 entrants in the combined Skillstrain Hertfordshire Young People of the Year (YOPEY) and Youth Community Safety Awards.

Many were previous winners from local events attending the County Final. All competed for a share of the £5000 prize pool. In the spirit of the awards - half of each prize gets donated to a charity of choice.

Dignitaries, sponsors, family and friends made-up a 300 strong audience. A chain gang of county Mayors filled the front row.

Together they listened to tales of courage, maturity, devotion, tenacity, altruism, ambition, enterprise, initiative, passion, creativity, energy, community spirit and civic pride.

Many stories were linked by common threads. Of the support given by family, friends, colleagues and strangers - but also of triumph over personal obstacles; age prejudice; and the negative youth images peddled by many in the media. Hurdles that would intimidate most adults.

Her efforts paid for three carers in a Romanian Orphanage. She also learnt Spanish to help street children in South America

The Queen was represented at the event by the Lord Lieutenant for Hertfordshire. The Countess of Verulam, Dione Grimston noted dryly that: "volunteering was compulsory in my day".

There was no such coercion today and this made each entrant entirely remarkable.

All the finalists received enthusiastic applause. None more so than Lauren Waterman. The Newgate Street Village 19-year-old won the £2000 top prize. She was described as a one-woman-fundraising-army. She could be found on manoeuvres at Moorgate Station from 5am collecting donations for a North London Hospice. Other fund-raising ventures included cabaret dinners, Pop Idol competitions and selling Liverpool Football Club merchandise on eBay. Her efforts paid for three carers in a Romanian Orphanage. She also learnt Spanish to help street children in South America. Her experiences in Ecuador moved her to tears. "I use to cry at night, she said, "but I put on a brave face - otherwise you wouldn’t get any work done". Being the Hertfordshire Young Person of the Year means more than recognition: "It gives me credibility, she said. "It will help me with fundraising. If I write to a business like Tesco they are less likely to reject me because I’m just another teen".

From early starts to late finishes. Self-taught sound and light technician Gordon Clarke from Harlow works with twenty charities. He has volunteered over 400 hours and is often awake past 11pm to burn effects on to discs and the like. It doesn’t sound late until you remind yourself that he is only 17-years-old. Asked what he does in his spare time, he replies: "my A levels". For his efforts and assistance with the YOPEY event he was given a laptop computer as a special prize.

David King is an undertaker for the Cooperative. It is a profession that requires empathy and the ability to listen. The 22-year-old from Watford won £500 for his work with the mental heath charity the Guideposts Trust. He uses his talents to draw clients out of their shells and take them socialising. Many were apprehensive and anxious about the prospect. Asked what inspires him, he replied: "The people I see on a daily basis".

Her responsibilities mean she often puts her family before herself and her school work. The pressure was immense and took its toll. Coral attempted suicide and was subject to a series of behaviour related school exclusions

A recent survey by Carers UK says that carers save the treasury £87 billion a year. They sacrifice relationships, finances, health and even identity in their role. Many were present this evening.

The website Children of Addicted Parents and People, or COAP, was founded by Emma Speigler. The 25-year-old from Kings Langley won £500 for bringing the problem of addiction to greater prominence. Emma’s mother suffered from alcoholism. Emma would sometimes have to carry her upstairs. To cope with the situation she dabbled with cannabis. The Judges recognised that she had been to hell and back and congratulated her for using her experiences to bring others back from the brink.

Sophie Dakakni, 18 and Rikki Davies, 17 won a holiday to Aqua City in Proprad, Slovakia. They set-up the Young Carers Chill-out Club. It provides care for carers through support networks and the chance to have a break from their responsibilities.

It is facilities like this that are invaluable for carers like Coral Tott, who won £500. The Hatfield 15-year-old has helped to look after her family from the age of ten. Some days her mother is unable to stand due to thrombophlebitis while her brother’s coordination is affected by Dyspraxia. Her responsibilities mean she often puts her family before herself and her school work. The pressure was immense and took its toll. Coral attempted suicide and was subject to a series of behaviour related school exclusions. The most serious involved knife possession. With support from the Hertfordshire Young Carers, Coral has tuned her life around. She now looks to the future with optimism and hopes to become a physiotherapist specialising in hypermobility.

Sponsor and judge Mr. Jan Telensky from SkillsTrain quoted Mark Twain when he said: "When I was 18 my father knew nothing about sex. When I was 25 he knew a lot". It was a nod to Youth Community Safety Award winner Katie-Louise Peacock. The 15-year-old from Cheshunt recognised that it was not easy for many teens to talk with their parents about sensitive subjects. She won the £1000 top prize after she secured funds and helped implement iText for the charity Herts Aid. It is a text message service that offers teens confidential and anonymous advice on safe-sex drugs and alcohol.

Five peer educators from Verulam School in St Albans won £500 for their contribution to youth education. Sam Killin, Peter Sutton, Aimee Woods, Jack Sparrow and George Allcroft from took time out from the A levels to teach kids about the dangers of drugs and alcohol. Lessons also included advice on safe sex and relationships.

Broxbourne Yopey Junior Winner Dan Ryan made the county final after he risked his life to rescue a woman from under a train

The contributions made by the young were not limited to social issues. Finalist Chloe Tingey turned the popular children’s book Jammy Dodgers Go Underground into a musical with a cast and crew of nearly 80. Helped by her sister Tabby, The 16-year-old from Bishops Stortford wrote 15 original songs and composed music for the orchestra. She had to overcome many doubters along the way. "People want to shoot you down if you put your head above the parapet," she said. But all were proved wrong as the performances were meet with standing ovations. The musical raised over £3,800 for special schools in Rwanda and Romania.

Air Cadet Lewis Stockwell was well supported on the night by colleagues and friends in uniform. The 17-year-old was credited with helping to reform the Hitchin ATC drum marching band. He teaches cadets, composes songs & routines and raised money to replace 20-year-old equipment. He also composed a song and raised £1,800 for a school friend diagnosed with Leukaemia. This is all despite suffering severe stomach and intestinal problems himself.

Other finalists were Jamie Knife from Chalfont St Giles. The 17-year-old secured a £100,000 grant to transform a playing field for the villages of West Hyde & Maple Cross. The area will be something positive for young people rather than standing on street corners, he said.

Daryl Cross and Dean Maxen raised money for a youth shelter. As a result anti-social behaviour in their area has been cut by 70%. The 16-year olds from Welham Green believe the media gives youths a hard time. "It’s got an attitude," said Daryl. "Older people think we don’t care". Asked what they would do with the prize money if they win they both agree: "Buy new goal posts for the local sports field".

Broxbourne Yopey Junior Winner Dan Ryan made the county final after he risked his life to rescue a woman from under a train at Rye House station. The 16-year-old from Hoddesdon He broke his arm in the process. He jumped on the track "out of instinct," he said.

The night was remarkable not only for the stories - but for the naked honesty in which they were told

Aaron Higgs was not present for the awards ceremony. The 17-year-old from Hemel Hempstead gives up his time to coach and administrator Hemel Stags Rugby League Club. He was represented by two youngsters that he coaches.

The night was remarkable not only for the stories - but for the naked honesty in which they were told. It made for an unenviable task to decide the winners. Host Councillor and judge Nigel Brook said: "I’ve never had a harder task in all my life. "They are a remarkable lot".

As a surprise all finalists received a prize of at least £50.

It was inspiring to witness the next generation mould the future in their image – one of idealism and action. The evening was a testament to the power of redemption and a showcase for what can be achieved with the right support. "If anyone tells me the youth of today are not up to it – I will argue with them." said Nigel Brook.

Perhaps he could have a word with Jacqui Smith.

Olympics Boycott

2008-05-02T21:17:00.013Z

I'm right behind an Olympics boycott.

Any government that: Illegally sells weapons to oppressive dictatorships ^[1][2][3] Illegally invades foreign countries ^[4] Is responsible for human-rights abuses ^[5] Curtails freedom of speech and peaceful protest ^[6] And is one of the world's biggest polluters ^[7] - doesn't deserve them.

Mind, if the 2012 games were taken-off London because of the UK government - who else could host them?

REFERENCES

^[1] UK sells chemical weapons to the world; Breaking international law
Sunday Herald 09 June 2002
^[2] Saudi Arabia buys 72 Eurofighters
BBC 18 August 2006
^[3] The 'trainer' jet the UK loves to hawk
BBC 29 May 2002
^[4] Iraq war illegal, says Annan
BBC 16 September 2004
^[5] EU: Don't turn a blind eye to UK human rights abuses
Amnesty International 23 February 2006
^[6] Activist convicted under demo law
BBC 07 December 2005
^[7] Top 20 Emitting Countries by Total Emissions for 2004
U.S. Department of Energy 2004