Moving from print to broadcast journalism

I'm on benefits but I'm no scrounger'

2012-02-15T07:41:00.008-08:00

Not everyone on benefits is a scrounger.

Of course, some abuse the system but there are investigators in the DWP who are catching them.

I have had enough. I am not a scrounger and this is why.

I am in the unenviable position of claiming Disability Living Allowance and Employment Support Allowance because I have Multiple Sclerosis (MS).

There are more than 300 forms of this long-term illness. There is no reason why a person gets MS.

Unfortunately there is no cure.

My body can’t fight off the cold weather any more, which is why rooms I enter in, including cars, have got to be well heated, even in the summer.

The pain in my body is constant. I cannot pick up my niece the way most aunties can. I cannot jog, which is why I treasure my Race For Life t-shirt which I earned by participating in the one at Wembley Stadium in 2008.

This is also why I value my medal for running in Regent’s Park the year before, for Cancer Research.

When holding a drink in my hand, it’s got to have a cap on top or it must be half full – my sense of balance and co-ordination has gone awry.

I also have to use a walking stick to get by.

The only advantage I now have is in knowing my neighbours no longer tell my parents I’m an alcoholic when they see me walking, which I do for exercise.

All of these things people take for granted and I realise there must be thousands of people worse off than me.

When I found myself in the position where I had to claim because of MS, I was just as shocked as anyone else and now I’m disgusted at how I’m treated as a benefit claimant.

Try going for a job interview with my condition – I still believe nobody owes anyone a duty to give them a job.

I’ve had more than my fair share of people at first showing interest in me working for them then realising they are ignoring my calls.

Over the phone or by e-mail, I get one of two reactions without fail: “How much disruption is the MS going to cause if you get the job?”

Or the straightforward one when I’m told:”You need to be realistic, you’re an insurance liability.”

No matter what you are claiming or why, one is deemed and treated as a scrounging fraud until you prove otherwise.

I am not just talking about the Department for Work and Pensions but also the people I meet everywhere I go, every day.

The look of disgust and judgment as you meet someone new and get asked: "and what do you do for a living?"

I see the expression on their face when I say I’m not working.

One former colleague, now working at a specialist branch of Reed employment, even said to me: “I’m surprised to see you here as I knew how much you like work".

Such grafting was food for my soul and I felt it justified my existence on this planet.

She remembers I even worked three days straight and I did this more than once as I was proud my body and mind was able to do this, so when MS came to me, I just couldn’t understand why.

Until I met up with the members of The Shane Project, which focuses on ethnic people with MS, I did feel like a freak of nature.

Thankfully, meeting with this group, which introduced me to other people who are Afro-Caribbean with MS, changed this.

On average, gas and electric costs £30-£40 a week depending on the season – yes the bills do still come in and they are higher for me as medically I have to be in an area with heat.

Do I have any luxuries? Yes, I have a flat screen TV, bought by my mum a few years ago. Do we have a games console? The answer is no.

What little we have is bought and paid for - as once I've eaten and paid the bills there is never anything left.

Where I live, there is no dog racing track for me to spend my benefit money – Walthamstow was closed many years ago.

Our budget is so tight that if an emergency crops up, like me being rushed to hospital because I’m passing out again or I’ve collapse down the stairs - which is why Brent Rehabilitation Services have installed a stairs banner - there is no way to get me home from hospital.

When we go food shopping, it is worked out to the absolute penny. There can be no deviation as there is nothing to play with.

Before MS, I used to drive, which included paying road tax, car insurance costs, fuel prices and all the other benefits of having my own transportation – now I have to pay for a cab.

I haven’t been on holiday or even a weekend away for years, whereas I did this at least twice a year when I worked.

Living on benefits is degrading, depressing and there is no room for any luxury of any kind - ever. I wouldn't have had a Christmas dinner last year if it wasn't for my folks.

I spend my spare time helping people who also need help, at the Brent Association of Disabled People. I’ve also helped at the Tokynton church branch of Cricklewood Homeless Concern. I don’t go to the theatre anymore.

Going to the local gym isn’t plain sailing. The floor at the women's changing room at Bridge Park Community Centre is wet and dangerous, which also means my walking stick is ineffective.

I’ve complained about the water and the need for staff to check the changing rooms but nothing gets done.

I'm not lazy, so I cannot keep quiet when I read the nonsense being published about benefit claimants.

There are fraudsters out there, I know this first hand as I once worked as an audio typist for a company called Haden, who had a contract with the British Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) which interviewed benefits cheats and sometimes I had to transcribe the fourth tape on the same person before they admitted there wrongdoing but the system and society in general are targeting the wrong people.

So to all those who think I'm a lazy, talentless, fraudulent scrounger, I'll say this. You’ve got to deal with the cards life has sent you.

I didn’t and wouldn’t choose to be disabled – I liked being an active person who seized the day and had full optimum health.

I avoided alcohol and spicy foods. The gym was my second home.

The next time you meet someone who is on disability allowance, or claiming benefits in some other way, ask yourself if you really are picking on them because they are a nice, easy target.

This isn't living or a lifestyle choice, it is surviving.

Andria

PS, please don’t hesitate to view my other site by clicking here.

So now it’s Health and Safety.

2012-01-06T08:34:00.000-08:00

It’s important to read and hear why I feel Mr Cameron is wrong to cut back on this country’s health and safety legislation.

One place I worked at not only failed this regarding a work experience student under the age of 18 years, it failed in this directive for everyone working in this company.

It also failed its legal responsibility to its employees by failing to provide a pension plan and to send us for an eye test every six months - it will soon become clear why this is important.

The same went for another employer I once worked as an audio typist, who (and probably still does) have a contract with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

They failed to forward any of us for an eye test (I was an audio typist) but made plans to terminate my employment with them when my typing speed went down.

Three months after I left, through my own initiative, I went for an eye test, which my former employers, were legally compelled to do.

The result? The optician found out I had the early stages of Multiple Sclerosis. My first attack probably happened at the place I worked that had also failed to provide a pension.

When my former bank, Nat West, wrote to my former employers about me, they didn’t get a reply.

When they wrote to the parent company Balfour Beatty, BB, about me, they (BB) denied employing me.

I have changed from a woman who could work three days without a rest, to a woman who can’t even handle the cold – MS suffers can’t.

As for employment, many prospective employers are initially interested in having me joining them but stop calling.

The irony is that I have no choice but to make claims to the DWP to have some money – London is an expensive city.

I hope Mr Cameron realises this, when making changed to the “albatross around the neck of British businesses.”

PS, as I still want to work for a living, please don’t hesitate to view my other site, by clicking here.

Light and Peace

Andria.

I have been confirmed as having MS.

2011-12-08T08:23:00.000-08:00

It was in October of this year that I had no choice but to accept my diagnosis, after my specialist, Dr Trip, wrote to my GP, Dr Anita Kapoor, that month.

He was kind enough to send me a copy of that letter too.

I had another attack of demylenation disease in September, with severe vertigo, which responded to steroids.

But this means, as Dr Trip had stated, the diagnosis of MS is secure. I really liked being an outdoors person and hoped I could go back to my hobby of jogging.

Personally I doubt I will ever truly know why I’ve been affected with this condition, which has prevented me from living the life I once had and thoroughly enjoyed.

I liked the challenge of working for days without a rest and being reliant on myself to get things done.

I was so proud at what I accomplished in my past, which included starting looking at the pain and misery left in the aftermath of gun and knife crime for the parents, siblings and friends of those who have been shot.

I was pleased that after attending the march for Anton Hyman (with no help, from start to finish, a massive thanks to MacDonalds for use of their toilets) other marches against gun and knife crime were organised and covered by other journalists from all aspects of the media.

I also wanted to have a present and future which included being able to enjoy full optimum health, so for this to happen knocked me sideways.

If I can learn one thing from my health problems, it’s that Multiple Sclerosis respects no one, regardless of status or whether they’re perceived as a role model or a bad girl.

It doesn’t matter how much you look the part, be it a secretary, a journalist or a successful bank manager, there is still one important need we all have.

Everyone wants to live. It’s a natural human instinct.

I still want to achieve things in my life, which includes seizing the day. I liked the challenge of being able to balance several things at once.

Somehow, for a reason beyond my understanding, my brain has made the decided to override this.

Now if I don't write things down, I will forget them.

I don’t want to sit in a chair all day. I still want to do things and that will never change.

So I do hope out of my situation more people will begin to understand the complex issues of MS.

There isn’t anything attractive about MS. It is a horrible, debilitating illness.

In the early days, my parents neighbours used to tell them I was drunk until I started to use a walking stick.

If there is another thing I’ve learned from this is a few home truths. I thought by now I’d be married with kids.

But life isn’t black and white; it has shades of grey.

We Brits have always been able to keep a stiff upper lip, even when we’re clearly being bullied.

One former friend even had the nerve to tell another former close friend of mine that I allowed myself to be bullied at work and the other one immediately accepted this to be true.

It is this insensitive behaviour, along with people not wanting to believe their friends could be so horrible to other people for the heck of it, that kills.

My heart still goes out to Fiona Pilkington, the mother who committed suicide and the death of her disabled daughter Francecca Hardwick, 18, in 2007, who couldn’t take the bullying, harassment and being let down by people who were supposed to protect them but didn’t.

The only thing good to come of this tragedy is that we as people finally accepted others do need to be protected from the dark side of human nature.

Read details of this tragic case by clicking here.

I can assure you, suffers of MS who are not wheelchair bound are not lazy people who need to pull their socks up.

I say this as I get so much abuse, which has included physical, when I’m sitting down in a priority seat on a bus, tube or train.

I have fallen over on the pavements so many times, I now walk in the road as that is a smoother, flatter surface – I assure you, it really hurts when I do fall over.

I also walk in the park, even when it’s dark.

I know it’s dangerous, especially as there are no park wardens in my neck of the woods but again, for the same reason above, I feel I’ve got no choice as I’ve ended up with my face on the pavement far too many times.

What I now require is patience, understanding and time, even when walking.

If you can afford these things, I and many people who are disabled truly thank you.

If you are struggling with balance, co-ordination and concentration as I did in the early stages (and still do) please go and see your GP today.

Hopefully you won't be diagnosed with my condition.

But if you do, whatever happens, don’t forget, you still have the right to be here.

Please note, I'm not bitter. I've accepted I've got to deal with the cards life has sent me.

I still intend on enjoying life and accept I have to do it in a different way, which now includes cutting down on chocolate!

Don't let anything or anyone prevent you from enjoying life.

From the bottom of my heart, to one and all, happy holidays for you and everyone!

Andria

PS, don’t hesitate to view my other site by clicking here.

KICK HIM OUT!

2011-11-22T06:14:00.000-08:00

That’s what I and many think of Mr Sepp Blater, over the remarks he made regarding racism in football.

The reason I believe he should go is simple – racism is alive in football and is another form of bullying.

There is no place for bullying and bullies in today’s society.

Bullies and bullying in any shape or form should never be tolerated.

Personally, I would of thought after the release of Tom Brown’s Schooldays, in the late 1800’s we all would have realised why bullies and bullying must be taken seriously.

We’ve all seen programmes of the churchman/woman who, it turns out, is secretly abusing their spouse, while they have to deal with more pain being heaped on them by members of the public disbelieving them.

My heart goes out to them, as anyone who has experienced bullying knows (as I have at my first university and at one workplace where I got the job the bully wanted for her friend) it does undermine your performance.

The pain of what I experienced at those places will remain with me forever.
So for Sepp to say such highly offensive remarks, which included him denying that racism is an issue in football, is sheer idiocy.

I really believe it’s time for him to go, but if there is any form of redemption for Blatter, then this link (here) is it!

*******

I’m glad a professional football player, such as Liverpool FC’s Luis Gomez, has been charged with racism by the Football Association (FA).

Until something like this happens, racism in football will never be taken or dealt with seriously in the UK.

I don’t condone violence but I’m aware that until Mr Eric Cantona lashed out against a Crystal Palace supporter in the early 1990’s racism in football in England and Wales simply wasn’t taken seriously.

So whatever the outcome, again I give full credit for the FA for having the courage to take a stand against racism.

*******

On a sad note, I would like to say goodbye to cricketer Basil D’Oliveira who was a real gentleman who stood up for all sportsmen.

It was his attempted barring from representing England in the 1960s that led to the rest of the world blackballing South Africa from international sport until they god rid of Apartheid (state approved racism) by having a multi-racial election for all in 1994.

Ironically enough he would have been a member of the race group called Coloured, who were third class citizens after the whites, many believed themselves to be the master race.

The Asians were next – many of who did look down on the next two races.

The coloureds were the third class citizens, many of who then looked down on the Blacks - Nelson Mandela and bishop Desmond Tutu to mention a few.

The other racial groups, not just the Whites, called black people kaffir – which is a racist term for black people.

So rest in peace, Mr D’Oliveira, you sleep with the stars tonight.

*******

Don’t hesitate to view my other site by clicking here.

Light and Peace

Andria

X

I’m very happy!

2011-11-16T05:43:00.000-08:00

That’s because England, in terms of football, has done so well – I’m proud of every single one of our players.

The one-nil victory against Spain on Saturday wasn’t brilliant.

On that match, Frank Lampard simply took the opportunity of the ball going his way.
Nevertheless it was a good result against the world champions and made me wish I had kept my white cowboy hat with the England flag.

So to see us win yesterday against Sweden, once again it was one-nil, against a team we haven’t won against in years, made me realise just how determined and focused our current team is.

As for the age factor, I believe it was a good mix of young and mature, ambition and determination to represent your country on an international stage.

Well done Fabio Capello, you’re a star for getting the strategy right which equalled the correct result.

Yes it was a boring match but I believe that was due to both teams being on an even par with each other.

Chelsea is playing at home this Sunday against Liverpool – now that’s a match that will be exciting.

Let’s face it, many Kop fans still haven’t forgiven Fernando for leaving them for the Londoners in blue.

Considering it hasn’t worked for him at Chelsea (yet) there will be no complaints from Chelsea’s fans if Mr Lampard did the same thing he did to the Spanish last weekend!

Light & Peace

Andria

PS don’t hesitate to visit my other site by clicking here.

A heartfelt message to all English students studying at an English university

2011-11-09T07:46:00.000-08:00

While you exercise your democratic right to demonstrate today, I can assure you it is better being a student now than it was during the 1990s.

Bullying was rife in places of further/higher education and workplaces until the turn of the century, when the European Union Human Rights Act came into play.

Even then, it wasn’t until the change in employment rights in 2006 that all people got the protection they deserve, at both work and all education institutions.

The sad truth is many students and people at work committed suicide. It really was that bad.

Even when many appealed to the student advisor or others for help, if the advisor was close friends of the students/people you were complaining about, it was made clear they didn’t want to know, saying to one patronisingly: “You just need to make new friends.”

Sadly even when many graduated, many former students/employees still had their former tormentors causing trouble, such as sending poisonous letters or ensuring their references were spiteful, despite the clear fact their former employees were terrible to them and had a long list of people leaving beforehand after receiving one public humiliation too many.

This was also the case with many hairdressing apprentices and students who were dealing with fellow students who were happy to pay a contibution towards, say a sports class, when other students were operating those classes but found ways not to pay if they don't like the new student taking over.

In such cases, it was only when the police, the courts or other legal enforcers were involved, that such behavior was finally dealt with.

Some people were exposed in the newspapers as being unsuitable men/women who clearly did abuse their authority.

None of today’s protestors will go through an experience like Tom Brown’s Schooldays. For more information about this, which was clearly based on the author’s experience at an educational establishment, click here.

I’m so grateful this is no longer the case.

Such bullying destroyed good people and prevented others in achieving their true potential in life.

Again, many men and women, boys and girls, simply couldn’t cope with the added belief that you must have a ‘stiff upper lip’.

Now, quite rightfully, that’s seen as nonsense.

I’m so glad it’s finally recognised that bullying can have a dramatic effect on people, years after the incident.

So as you protest, please remember, there may not have been any tutorial fees in the 1990s but you certainly paid for it in another way.

Not everybody can be Mr/Ms Popular.

Light and Peace

Andria

PS please don’t hesitate to visit my other site by clicking here.

Rest in Peace Joe Frazier

2011-11-08T07:27:00.000-08:00

He was a great boxer and we will not see the likes of him again.

One of my favourite fights is the knockout he had against George Foreman in Jamaica in 1973.

There’s nothing more I can say about this man, so please check out these links, which I feel show his greatness, here and here.

Light and Peace

Andria

Also, don't hesitate to check out my other site by clicking here.

Well, well, oh!

2011-11-01T06:31:00.000-07:00

Whatever you may think of this, this former glamour model look extremely good for her age!

For more information, click here.

Light and Peace

Andria

PS, don't hesitate to visit my other site by clicking here.

In defence of Stan The Man

2011-10-31T09:57:00.000-07:00

I never thought I would be championing Mr Collymore.

I remember his unhelpful remarks about Mr Drogba at Stamford Bridge, during the UEFA semi-final match against Barcelona.

But I do agree with what he has said The People newspaper yesterday about racism and football.

Regardless as to what John Terry and Anton Ferdinand claim, the Football Association must act in a decisive manner in dealing with this issue.

There was another incident a few weeks ago regarding Manchester United’s Patrice Evra and Liverpool FC forward Luis Suarez.

Mr Evra claimed he was racially taunted by the Liverpool ace.

Yet I have noticed in both incidents the Football Association have remained silent over the issue.

This, the silence, is what is unacceptable.

I will never condone violence of any sort in football but I’m aware it was only when a another (now retired) Manchester United player - Eric Cantona – did a kung-fu attack on a so-called Crystal Palace fan that racism in football was seen as the repulsive Cancer it is.

It’s not banter to insult someone because of their race or sexuality.

Perhaps we need Mr Cantona (now happily re-married and establishing himself as an actor) to speak publicly again to get something done about racism, sexism and anti-homophobic behaviour that’s still in this wonderful sport.

When I did some reporting at the demolition of the original Wembley Stadium, I was on the media bus and I can assure you, the racism I heard from the reporters, many of whom worked on national newspapers was horrible.

They said unprintable words about Jamaicans and Somalians, when after seven minutes of hearing this, I took off my glove (it was a cold day) and exaggeratedly lifted up my hand, revealing there was a black person on board.

All of a sudden, the room went silent. I then got off the bus, remembering I had to remove something off the table I had written on.

So I went back, removed the item of rubbish, looked at the reporters ( who were all male, middle-aged and British) who had said the remarks in their faces, turned back and left the media bus.

The reason? I had come to Wembley to do a job and that was to get the views and opinions of the residents of Wembley, which has a high proportion of people of many races.

In other words, I came to do a job and I left the area completing my job.

I could have just shrugged my shoulders at the incident and said oh well, I’m not a Jamaican or of Somalian origin, so those remarks don’t bother me.

But as a member of the human race, it does, as that is what it comes down to at the end of the day.

We have all got to live in this world together and whenever we all like it or not, unless you’re rich enough to buy the whole street, we will have interaction with people of different races and sexuality.

In other words, time must be called on unacceptable behaviour – meaning ALL OF THE ABOVE.

Not just racism, sexism and anti-homophobic behaviour but favouritism too.

As this also leads to the opposite of valuing people for their worth, on all aspects and sides.

Light and Peace

Andria

PS, don’t forget to visit my other site by clicking here.

So Brent Council thinks it has won

2011-10-18T07:18:00.000-07:00

The High Court judge dealing with the Judicial Review to save six London Borough of Brent libraries has ruled in their favour.

Tokyngton library has been closed, along with five other libraries.

But the council fails to remember mistakes of the past.

I remember when this borough was dubbed “Looney Left” by national newspapers in the early 1980s.

The fact that one could read banned books in this borough’s libraries, such as Spycatcher by Peter Wright (which the Thatcher government tried to block which, not surpsingly, made this a best-seller) made this London borough great, as it refused to bend to central government rule.

I also remember the Government inspectors watching me and other pupils at Preston Manor High (now community) School.

But few publications stated their ruling - there was nothing wrong with this council so far as our education – Kenneth Baker (who commissioned this) eat your heart out.

When the council shut all school libraries in the late 1980s with the intention of selling them off, parents in this borough wouldn’t send their kids to be educated here.

They opted to educate them privately or in schools/colleges outside Brent.

Yet all of this is likely to happen again, thanks to the way they are shutting down (clearly with the intention of selling them off) six of this council’s libraries.

There has to be another way as this isn’t it.

Please don’t hesitate to visit my other site, by clicking here.

Light and Peace

Andria

You go girl, Venus Williams.

2011-09-23T09:46:00.000-07:00

Like many, I was shocked when five-times Wimbledon champion Venus Williams pulled out of the US Open tournament earlier this year.

Whether we all like it or not, both Williams sisters have changed the way tennis is viewed and played for women.

The only other female, who did this, in my opinion, was Billie Jean King.

As the singer Phil Collins said, she took everything she saw.

But I give full credit to Venus for coming clean that she has Sjogren’s syndrome.

To know more about this illness, click here.

This is a horrible condition that saps the energy of the said person.

It’s also likely we’ll never see Ms Williams at the top level of playing tennis again.

I can appreciate the relief she must have felt about finally knowing why she just couldn’t move as fast or as powerful as she once did.

I also realise the dred which came over her next, when she realised the full extent of this illness and found out there is no cure.

I was, like Ms Williams, such an active person.

Although I wasn’t a professional athlete, I enjoyed training like one.

From my experience, it must have been awful for her, wondering why she had no energy, felt exhausted all the time and was achy and ill for no reason.

I genuinely like and still believe, in the Protestant Work Ethic.
To find out more about this concept, click here.

But I can also say such auto-immune diseases, MS is one of them, can only be held in check by steroids.

I can say no-one wants to be on such medication, which recently included me last week but faced with my health getting worse, I felt that I had no choice but to take them.

I simply couldn’t phantom this illness of Multiple Sclerosis would ever happen to me but it has.

The other day, I was riding on a bus and felt so sick seeing three people running, proudly displaying their Race For Life t-shirts, knowing a few years ago, that was me.

My advice to Ms Williams is simply to increase the humidity wherever she is.

Unfortunately such heating, if she's in a cold climate, will cost money.

On a personal note, here’s hoping Venus is able to get back to doing what she loves – which is playing tennis.

Light and Peace

Andria

On a lighter note, don’t forget to visit my other site by clicking here.

Here comes the girls!

2011-09-22T05:35:00.000-07:00

This is good proof as to why they call it the beautiful game!

I’m so proud to see these pictures.

The crowd is composed entirely of women and children, who watched the Turkish football giants Fenerbahce play at home, against Ukraine’s Shakhtar Donetsk.

The final result of this game was 1-1.

The attendance was around 41,000 and played in the open, despite authorities originally marking this match to be played behind doors, due to the the previous violence.

The club got around the ruling by convincing the authorities to ban men from being in the crowd.

I know this is a throw-back from the 1990s but GIRL POWER!

To see more, which I hope you do, please click here.

Don’t hesitate to visit my other site by clicking here.

Light and Peace

Andria

I wish Mrs Lineker the very best.

2011-09-21T10:02:00.000-07:00

That’s what I think of Danielle’s decision to switch to a different agent.

As much as it was good of long-time agent Ms Becca Barr to get her work and fame for the past four years as a linguine model, I can see from her role in the stage version of Calendar Girls she wants to become a serious actress.

Inevitably we all age, as is displayed by the constant re-touching of glossy photos in certain magazines.

These photos display an image of beauty that simply cannot be attained at a certain age but I suspect the consumers who buy these magazines already know this, which is why I’m not prepared to stand on a milk-cart in Marble Arch condemning these periodicals.

Age catches up with all of us, so it’s not surprising Mrs Lineker wants to get out while she can to pursue what else life offers.

The words of her new agent, Jo Edwards, said it the best, saying: “We will be pursuing all avenues of acting work with Danielle.”

I’m also glad her former agent isn’t bitter, by saying: “I wish Danielle all the very best.”

£££££££

I’m so glad for Michael Owen to see him score for Manchester United against Leeds in the Carling Cup in their 3-0 win.

Owen has struggled for years after the 2006 World Cup with knee ligament problems but shows he’s still good to go.

It’s good to hear him say: "I'm still only 31 and I have a good few years left in me yet."

Along with Ryan Giggs, don’t write off the old forces at Old Trafford!

To see more of this, click here.

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I’ve become a fan of watching the Rugby World Cup.

It’s grown on me – especially after seeing England play against Georgia.

Although the team of Saint George won 41-10, it wasn’t a success that meant England could pat itself on the back.

I admire the honesty in saying they must improve, as it was clear there was a lack of discipline in the defence and attack – areas that need to be strengthened in order to compete with the big boys of South Africa and the All Blacks.

Come on England!

£££££££

Don’t forget to visit my other site by clicking here.

Light and Peace

Andria

Why I believe in education

2011-09-20T07:21:00.000-07:00

I’ve been getting involved, I’m proud to say, in saving six Brent libraries from closure.

They are:

Barham Park

Cricklewood

Kensal Rise

Neasden

Preston

Tokyngton – this is the one I regularly visit.

We all know education is a good thing to have but there are people who don’t want to know in helping others have this right too.

I remember when I worked in Newcastle, for a brief period, in 1999 to 2000 for a now defunct national-regional newspaper.

One friend, called Karen, whose parents are from Jamaica, also realised this importance, when she said to me: “If it wasn’t for Boots [the chemist] I wouldn’t have a job.”

Karen also added: “People were okay in speaking to me over the phone but when we met, they would look straight through me. Then I’d get the phone call saying my application was unsuccessful.”

If it wasn’t for the job I had, as a sub-editor, I wouldn’t of been in this part of the UK either.

It was my education that gave me this opportunity.

But I’m very grateful for the experience of working in Newcastle, which is within England (the North), as it was during my time there I realised the importance of the English language, which also helps explain why I, like many, was very unhappy at David Starkey’s remarks during an interview on BBC2’s Newsnight.

There were times I couldn’t understand what someone from this region was saying to me but we eventually got the right result.

It was a different culture, much different than what I’d experienced in London. Again I’m glad my education gave me this opportunity.

Whether we like it or not, people do make assumptions based on our language and accent – if we ignore this fact, then we are responsible for our own downfall.

Who wants to remain a dishwasher for the rest of their life? I once did this for a living but I'm glad to say my education enabled me to move on.

As Britons we are blessed with a language that gives us such depth, understanding and meaning, for which I’m very grateful.

That also explains why I wasn’t surprised so many black comics were offended by the Ali G character, portrayed by Sacha Baron Cohen, particularly with his tradition moan, ‘Is it because I is black?’

Such dumbing down of our society isn’t needed. The recent riots that happened in the UK showed this.

I like listening to rap music, which now covers many issues but I’m not interested in songs that talk about having lots of money, cars and b******.

I’m not interested in that kind of music anymore!

I say this because education gave me the chance and opportunity to change my views and opinions.

Education must never be a privilege of the few – but if the planned library closures in Brent go ahead, that’s exactly what you’ll have.

Barack Obama got to the highest office on the planet thanks in part to his education. We neglect language and education (which includes employment skills) at our risk.

This also helps explain why the Keep Britain White campaign of the 1950's got nowhere.

Despite my disability, I still hope one day to get in full-time employment again.

Nobody owes me a duty to employ me – regardless of my sex, race or abilities.

If people don’t want me around, they have the right to say no, regardless as to what I may suspect.

The fact remain that if you are going to live in Britain, you have to speak the language. The same applies if I was going to live in Portugal or Greece.

So be proud to speak English, take the opportunities to improve yours and please, whenever you can, visit the campaign to keep all of the libraries in Brent open, by clicking here.

Don’t forget to visit my other internet site by clicking here.

Light and Peace

Andria

How dare he say that!

2011-09-12T05:38:00.000-07:00

That’s what I feel regarding the remark said by comic Russell Brand, calling the Paralympics a novelty.

I’m glad many Paralympics athletes have hit back, with the brilliant David Weir, 32, who won two gold medals, a silver and a bronze at the 2008 Bejing games, saying: “Calling the sport a novelty is offensive.”

Don’t take my word for it, check out this article on it by clicking here.

*******

Well done to Robbie Savage for joining Strictly Come Dancing.

I’m also glad to see pictures of him enjoying a kick about in Cuban heels, which show how versatile he is in transferring his skills from the football pitch to the ballroom.

This former Derby and Welsh international football player is certainly going to make things happen on this show.

To see more of this exciting line up, click here.

*******

It’s sad but predictable to see how Jennifer Thompson, who sold her story regarding her romps with Manchester United and England scorer Wayne Rooney, has squandered about half the money she received in talking about the affair.

I don’t condone Mr Rooney’s behaviour but I will say, looking at the past, regarding women who sell such stories, they don’t go far.

Shoes come and go out of fashion but reputation doesn’t – think before you speak and spend so much money.

Where else does she know that a cash influx like the one she once had, will come her way again?

*******

Talking about high heels, I’m sure most of you have seen the shoes Victoria Beckham was wearing with her newly-born daughter, Harper.

Most women couldn’t and/or wouldn’t even phantom wearing shoes that high but Ms Beckham has – so soon after becoming a mum again for the fourth time.

Long may she reign!

*******

Nicolas Anelka has been offered a contract rumoured to be worth millions if he ends his playing career in the Middle East.

Considering there are now at least five other strikers competing for a place in the starting line up and he’s now 32, perhaps it’s not a bad thing to suggest he should take it.

Gary Linekar did this, playing out the end of his career in Japan, then got involved in the Walkers Crisps ad and we still think of him with affection.

I couldn’t think of a better man to front Match Of The Day.

*******

It’s all very well Harry Redknapp wants to be England’s football boss.

But we still have one in Fabio Capello.

Furthermore, there are other issues Harry has to be concerned with, such as the British Inland Revenue.

I’ve always said Mr Redknapp is a brilliant motivator – all you’ve got to do is see what he did to Tottenham Hotspur, who was languishing at the bottom of the Premier league when he took over in 2008.

Many accept he was the real reason Spurs got into the UEFA Championship league – and in the next season!

But when it comes to strategy, well like many, I’m not surprised they haven’t got far in the UEFA league either, as the strategy has to be just as good as the motivation.

Nevertheless, just like Terry Venables, I think his troubles with the tax authorities mean he’ll probably be offered the role coach for the Euro 2012 Finals but not manager!

*******

I must admit I’ve never been a fan of Mr Stan Collymore.

I had my suspicions about him after the way Liverpool FC quickly off-loaded him to Aston Villa (at a £1.5m discount too) and let’s face it, things didn’t work between him and Dwight Yorke – they should of been an ideal goal making partnership.

The latter of the two did move onto Manchester United and the rest, abeit the Jordan saga, is history.

But I do agree with him 100 per cent when he says football managers should be appointed on merit.

But the reason The Rooney Rule is rightfully being debaited here is because there is a low representation of former footballers who are black or mixed race achieving management positions in professional football.

The Rooney Rule, established in 2003, requires American National Football League teams to interview minority candidates for head coaching and senior football operation opportunities. It is often cited as an example of affirmative action.

When I first went to the University of Westminster to study journalism, it was especially for people from the ethnic minorities - admittedly, I was grateful for the opportunity.

I also remember the days when PE teachers would look down at their black pupils for being that – saying black kids just don’t have it in the thighs to make it professional.

Two wrongs just don’t make a right.

I also remember bananas being thrown on the pitch whenever a black footballer was playing in the 1980s.

I also agree with Mr Collymore in rubbishing a quota system and in him questioning how the likes of Thierry Henry, Patrick Viera, Andy Cole and Dion Dublin can be overlooked for managerial roles in football.

I also admire him saying: “They [retired black footballers] have so much experience and will have learned so much from Arsene Wenger and Sir Alex Ferguson.

“Only once players of that calibre get a chance will we start to see bridges being built between black managers and the coaches and chairman and directors, who are predominantly white.”

*******

Sadly, on a sad note, I want to say rest in peace, Winston Panton.

He was a brilliant Tai Chi instructor who also became my friend.

He helped me out, in allowing me to do a piece on him when I worked at a magazine, when I quickly needed someone of his profession and calibre.

His advice was also of personal, strong importance to me and finally enabled me to put behind a lot of past wrongs I’ve experienced in life.

So goodbye Mr Panton, you now sleep with the stars tonight.

*******

PS, don’t forget to visit my other site by clicking here.

Light and Peace

Andria

I’m glad England won their recent match against Wales.

2011-09-08T10:09:00.000-07:00

I admit I didn’t think the match at Wembley, during a Tuesday evening on the 6th of this month, was a great one but if we had drawn or lost to Wales, it would of been embarrising for England.

The Welsh defenders Darcey Blake and Ashley Williams did do a good job in keeping Wayne Rooney in check, which made sure he didn't contribute to England's success.

I also have to admit to being vain on this, as England were wearing my favourite colour – blue.

Well done Ashley Young, you did England proud :)

According to FIFA, we're ranked as the 4th best team in the world - where is Wales?

The irony here is, Mr Young was hired by his club team Manchester United to replace Ryan Giggs - the Welsh Wonder!

Now that I’ve said it, I hope I’m not proven wrong over the next qualifying matches.

To learn more about this wonderful colour, click here.

Don’t forget to visit my other site, by clicking here.

Light and peace

Andria

X.

Living with Multiple Sclerosis.

2011-07-25T04:44:00.000-07:00

For starters, there is more than 300 types of MS - so my strand is just one of many.

I think it should be explained what this illness means for me.

I have no choice but to walk in the road to get from A to B.

The Freedom pass I have does help but I admit I do miss driving about in a car – I do have one, that’s declared off the road.

I was hoping to drive it again but I now accept that’s not going to happen again anytime soon – the guy who sold it to me some years ago clearly made a tidy profit!

The reason I walk on the road is because the pavements are uneven and I’m sick and tired of falling down on them.

I assure you it hurts my body and the pavements are not always clean!

The pavements don’t absorb my falls, like it did for Keanu Reeves in The Matrix.

Last time I fell was approximately six months ago, which resulted in deep cuts to my palms, cuts and grazes to my left leg (upper and lower) and my glasses scratched in both lenses – I couldn’t wear them again until this month, since I couldn’t afford to have them proffesionally cleaned. I also had whiplash.

Thankfully a kind neighbour saw me on the floor, picked me up from the pavement, popped in one lense back in it’s left socket and drove me free of charge to the main road, which is, for me, is 30 minutes away from my parent’s home.

The reason I moved back to live with my parents is because wherever I live, modifications will have to be made for my needs and as I found out to my dismay, about four years ago, private landlords are not prepared to allow such modications to their property.

I’ve also found I’ve got no choice but to walk in my local park to get from A to B or again, walk in the road.

Local authorities are getting rid of park wardens but not all sections of the park are full of people.

Please I’m not moaning but just saying these are a few of the daily battles I’ve got to go through since having near MS.

I miss being able to drive and yes I do also miss being taxed for it as my previous life gave me the freedom to come and go as I pleased, which included running (I can’t do that anymore and do miss this sport – I ran for Cancer Research and Race For Life) but now I realise I’ve got a new set of challenges ahead of me and I’m not bitter about my condition anymore.

Considering I’m now going swimming, although I do still kick myself in the pool, due to my lack of co-ordination, I do like the freedom the water gives to me and my soul.

So lets get swimming everyone!

Light and Love

Andria

X

PS, don’t forget to visit my other site by clicking here.

I still miss The News of the World newspaper.

2011-07-20T10:05:00.000-07:00

It dealt with a wide range of subjects, including a book review that was very informative and influencial.

It introduced me to the pleasures of the Matt Rudd books about a guy called William Walker.

It’s like reading a male Bridget Jones.

Because I have demylenation disease, it takes me longer to read but the humour in them makes it worth it.

Check him out for yourself by clicking here.

That’s also one of the reasons why I feel libraries must be protected and I’m proud to be a supporter of them, which includes my local library Tokyngton.

Go libraries!

To see more of this worthwhile campaign, click here – although the campaign title doesn’t mention Tokyngton, they do cover it.

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So the Tevez move to Brazil’s Corinthians is off – or is it?

Either way, there’s no point in keeping on a player if they want to leave.

The asking price for this man maybe a factor – perhaps Manchester United were right in their refusal to pay the fee once demanded by Tevez’s reps two seasons ago as it’s clear Manchester City want a return on their investment on him.

I remember seeing Mr Tevez several months ago, training at Chelsea FC’s Stamford Bridge with his personal trainer a good four hours before their match.

His energy and goal scoring make him a fantastic player – no wonder City won’t let him leave at any price – if the rumours are correct it seems that Corinthians are going to bid for Carlos again, with a new and improved bid.

I truly hope all goes well for him, wherever he plays.

£££££££

Also on this issue of wishing people well, Northampton, the runners up of the Heineken Cup, are going to need it when they face the Irish team Munster.

I admit I’m not much of a rugby fan but I’ve heard about this team – they are formidable.

Like the 1970’s female tennis player Billie Jean King, they take everything they see.

Don’t take my word for it, read their impressive track record for yourself by clicking here.
£££££££

Don’t forget to see my other site by clicking here.

Light and Peace

Andria

The corruption in FIFA

2011-06-23T04:31:00.000-07:00

Like many football fans, I was well aware of FIFA’s duplicity regarding internal couruption before the BBC Panorama programe was aired earlier this year, which didn’t help England’s chances of hosting the 2018 World Cup.

But I feel it didn’t damage them either.

It’s a real shame the full extent of FIFA’s role of indifference over Jack Warner and Mohamed Bin Hammam has been laid bare by a leaked report.

The ethics committee inquiry over the scandal, ordered by FIFA, has left no stone unturned and it’s just as well Warner has quit all his international posts.

Mr Warner will still get a pension from FIFA that’s believed to be almost £23,000.00 a year for life.

Many of us don't even get a yearly salary, much less a pension of that amount!

Warner may be old but the rest of us will have to hope our numbers in the Euro Lottery come up to live off money like that!

Right now, I’m thinking of the ABBA song, Money Money Money - probably the best way for the rest of us to be a millionare is to marry one!

*******

I also want to say congrats to the Northern Ireland pro Roy McIlroy for his win in the 111th US Open Championship.

The reaction of his home town supporters was enthusiastic.

To see another angle of the main man, click here.

*******

Meanwhile please check my other site by clicking here.

Ta!

Andria

Go team GB.

2011-06-22T08:03:00.000-07:00

I would love seeing a football team GB for the Olympics!

Imagine it, getting the cream of the crop, i.e. the best football players in the UK, playing for one nation.

I can also see the wish of the Welsh and Scottish FA to keep their identities but team GB will include Gareth Bale, the current PFA Footballer of the Year.

He’s rated by many footballers as one of the world’s best players and this could be his only chance at a global tournament.

So don’t look at this as a sceptical chance to sell more tickets but as a chance to show what the UK can do.

*******

I can understand, if I didn’t love football, why many people still dislike Argentina’s Diego Maradonna.

On the 25th anniversary of his infamous Hand of God incident that knocked England out of the World Cup quarter finals, the retired striker Chris Waddle, now 50, said: “The goal should never of stood.”

I believe the reason why it did stand is because the linesman responsible for watcjing the ball simply missed the incident before that goal was struck.

That was inexcusable – particularly so close after The Falklands War. Unfortunately politics and sport were linked on that match.A

But as a football fan, well I can’t help thinking of the Hand of Hod incident in the late 1990s, committed by Ian Wright.

Let’s face it, we didn’t complain about that incident – especially since it did help to forward England in it’s campaign to play international football.

Maradonna, like Pele and Best, is one of the greatest footballers of all time – England were always the under dogs in that match.

Nonetheless the incident did hurt me and many people from England and Diego’s ‘goal’ was at a crucial moment when the match was still 0-0.

I do hope Maradonna would just admit what he said after the match was nonsense - he saw an opportunity and took it!

*******

I wish Chris Hughton all the best as the new manager of Birmingham City boss.

Relegated Brum will no doubt want Hughton to do for their club what he did at Newcastle and get them back into the Premiership league at the first attempt.

I don’t blame them as Sheffield Wednesday and Nottingham Forest have shown, once you get relegated it’s hard to get back in with the big boys.

Go Hughton!

*******

I will avoid talking about Villas-Boas and Chelsea – I mean it!

*******

What the story with the typical English weather?

At this rate, with all the rain pouring down, then stopping, then starting again, Wimbledon will be opening on a Sunday - once again!

I’m glad to see Serena Williams back after those terrible life-threatening blood clots, which took her out of tennis for a year.

It was touching seeing her break down after wining her first match this year at Wimbledon.

She wore a nice outfit too.

You go girl!

*******

Don’t hesitate to visit my other site by clicking here.

Light and Peace

Andria

It’s a city of two halves!

2011-05-16T08:34:00.000-07:00

I’m glad my local team QPR are back in the Premiership but sad to see another London team, West Ham, leave.

It was so cruel the way West Ham got kicked out and in overtime too, losing their two goal lead in the dying seconds – ouch!

It’s all too easy to say they should of put out all the stops in January to get Martin O’Neil – let’s face it, he’s one of the most respected and astute managers in England.

I personally wouldn’t hesitate to give him the chance of being the manager of England after Capello - who I do respect.

He’s tough, astute but approachable and doesn’t suffer fools gladly – he reminds me of Tommy Docherty in the seventies – now that was a manager.

Then again O’Neil must of felt there were too few games in January to save this club – he’s got his reputation to think about!

But the owners and directors at West Ham must of decided to remove Mr A Grant at the end of the season when it would have been cheaper to drop him, due to their expensive purchase of a particular building that Tottenham Hotspur FC still want.

Now West Ham will have to start next season in the Championship, well there’s an irony.

It was two season’s ago they guaranteed the northern club Middlesbrough their place in the First Division.

But I was so glad to hear QPR won’t have any points removed over an earlier altercation.

The last time I had this sadness was when Millwall fell out of top league football just before the start of the Premiership league in 1991.

*******

Congratulations to Manchester United and Manchester City for wining the league and the FA Cup!

United deserves it’s 19th win and City deserves to have some silverware after all the money its owners have spent, so well done to both.

Don’t hesitate to visit my blog, by clicking here.

Speak to you soon.

Andria

Full credit to Manchester United.

2011-04-27T06:38:00.000-07:00

At first I thought Chelsea were going to win the league this year but looking at the success of the Manchester United team – I think it’s time for me and others to admit our mistakes.

I got it wrong and here’s wishing the best for Sir Alex Ferguson.

I believed he wouldn’t lift the cup this year as the current first team at Man U aren’t the best that he’s produced.

But they are just as determined as his previous teams.

I’ve noticed that Sir Alex always keeps four players at the back, come what may and this has proved crucial to his success.

The current level of achievement of Manchester United at both home and in Europe speaks for itself.

I remember watching the match a few months ago at West Ham – a team that now must accept life next season in the First Division.

As soon as he put on Berbatov, I knew Sir Alex meant business.

The match turned to their advantage there and then.

So all credit to Sir Alex as one can’t last as a manager in this industry for 20 years without doing something right!

*******

It’s a shame that as one London team goes down, another goes up.

But I’m so pleased to see Queens Park Rangers – better known simply as QPR – finally getting back in the Premier League next season.

It was a mistake selling Les Ferdinand to Newcastle all those years ago but I’m glad to see they’ve finally brought in top quality players.

It’s transformation speaks for itself – yeah!

I have to say that as QPR is very close to where I live but I have to admit, I'm pleased to say this remark too.

Go London!

Don't forget to view my other site by clicking here.

See ya.

Andria

X.

Please be kind.

2011-04-18T08:16:00.000-07:00

I have to say this.

On Friday 15th April this year, I was in Harlesden, North West London.

One black man, of Afo-Caribbean origin, in his mid-thirties approach me, concerned in seeing me with a walking stick.

He was kind and polite but because I’m so used to some black people treating me badly because of this, I just smiled at him and made my way to the other side of the street.

Afterwards, I felt bad about this, so I did cross over again to see if I can find him and appologise for my earlier behaviour.

This wasn’t to be but I did see a black woman of Arfo-Caribbean origin, in her mid twenties who did ask me about my condition.

I didn’t want to repeat the same error, so I told her about my condition, even explaining what demylenation disease is and said I need a walking stick for my lack of balance and co-ordination - I do fall over for no reason.

This woman then proceeded to say hurtful things about me – like many (but thankfully not all in our ethnic group) it was made clear that I must offended God and praying to him (or her) will give me salvation from my illness.

I did my usual routine of smiling then walking away.

Please, I don’t know why I have demylenation disease or why it’s happened to me but don’t insult me because of it.

I’m determined to do things with my life, not sit at home and wallow in self-pity but these negative remarks and judgements don’t help anyone.

It was once said to me by a man, at the Belfast Benefit office, when I did ask (loudly) over the phone at the Wembley Job Centre, "why me?" He replied: "you’ve just got to deal with the cards life has sent you."

I now accept he’s right, so please don’t blame me for this disease.

Things do happen for which we just don’t know the reason why (I don't know why I have this disease) and this condition has dramatically affected me.

Before I was a person who leapt out of bed – now I can’t do that but I’m learning to adjust and still enjoy life.

Today’s a great day, we’re living in a great country, so let us all enjoy it!

Andria

X

Goodbye and good luck Fernando Torres!

2011-02-01T12:04:00.000-08:00

Yes I believe he does deserve to benefit further from his own talents and skills.

As for the money that’s being spent on him and others during the British football transfer market – well I’m happy to say it’s not the public purse that’s paying for all of this.

Furthermore, Mr Torres is known as one of the good guys in football - Fernando is a family guy, devoted to his wife and their two kids.

After the success of Spain wining last year’s UEFA World Cup – he was a part of this team – Fernando was bound to wish for that same standard of success.

If it’s the ambition of Torres to leave, then like former Manchester United striker Cristiano Ronaldo, he shouldn’t be held back from achieving his destiny.

I call this; the Wright reason - after retired footballer Ian Wright, when he left Crystal Palace for Arsenal FC.

It was his manager at Crystal who bitterly called Ian a hothead who wouldn’t last at this prestigious club.

Well Mr Wright did outlast the Arsenal manager who purchased him, George Grahame and even played during the early reign of current long-serving present manager Arsene Wenger.

This was despite Ian having a colourful life off the football pitch – his extra marital affairs when he was a professional player are well-known.

The same can be said for his public spat with another former Arsenal manager Bruce Rioch.

But up to this day, he remains one of Britain’s best loved and well-known retired football players.

The bottom line is; Mr Wright wanted to win things and Arsenal was the football club in London which matched his ambitions and was willing to open new pastures for him.

That’s why he too asked for a transfer from CP to the reds of London, despite being offered the same pay at both clubs.

It’s very sad to look back on your life and say: “it might have been.”

So I wish all the best for Fernando on joining Chelsea FC.

At the same time, I think it’s fair to say everyone in the UK will be watching this Sunday’s match between Chelsea and Liverpool, at Stamford Bridge – that’s Chelsea’s home turf.

Extra security will clearly be needed for that match!

Don’t hesitate to visit my other site by clicking here.

Andria

X

I liked watching Aurelio Zen!

2011-01-03T09:20:00.000-08:00

I think Rufus Sewell was brilliant as the sharp suited leading detective, brought to life thanks to BBC1.

Don't take my word for it. The Herald Scotland has a good review about it.

All the main actors and one sexy actress in this show are over 40 years of age (yes!).

I think it was about time we had a show like this on national TV.

Take care.

Andria.

I don't believe it!

2010-11-11T10:20:00.000-08:00

Reggae star Buju Banton still under arrest?

Well the charges against him (Heroin trafficking) are serious.

Mr Marley was noble in putting his house up as bond - does he know his granddad is Caucasian and from Liverpool?

If it wasn't for slavery, this region in the UK wouldn't have been the 'success' it was a few century's back.

Then again, it’s probably better if you read the full story yourself, by clicking here.

****

It looks like Chelsea is going to win the Premiership title again for 2010-2011.

After Manchester United’s draw against derby rivals Manchester City and Chelsea wining in their London derby against Fulham, all of which happened yesterday, I think that’s very likely.

If you want so say I’m wrong, answers on a postcard please- then again, I think that’s all the space you’re going to need!

Short, sweet and spicy!

Andria

PS, please listen to Northwick Park Hospital radio when you can. I do voluntary work here, which is broadcasted from nine to ten PM. To listen, click here.

Amos Daniels, Rest In Peace

2010-10-04T07:41:00.000-07:00

I’m sorry to find out that an estranged friend’s elder brother, Amos Daniels, has died on Tuesday, 28th September.

Amos was a true gentleman, who always had time for anyone.

I’m glad his family were around him during his last moments.

Anyone who knew him will tell you how true and honest he was – his passing shows that you don’t have to be rich or famous to matter to others.

He was just over the age of 40, of black Caribbean origin and his wife is of white UK origin.

I say this because I have no pictures of the happy couple when they got married, about five years ago.

I'm just glad they both found happiness with each other.

My thoughts are with his family, including his sister Barbara, his mum Christine and his wife.

Amos Danils, RIP.

What a whitewash.

2010-08-26T08:34:00.000-07:00

The 6-0 defeat by Fulham of Port Vale yesterday speaks for itself.

It was raining but nothing could damper the spirits of the supporters from both teams.

If Fulham are missing Hodgson, they aren’t showing it.

The speed and tactics shown by Mark Hugh’s team was no match, clearly showing the difference of the two leagues of Port Vale and Fulham.

After their stunning 2-2 draw against Manchester United on Sunday 22nd August, they have every right to brim with confidence.

So it’s Fulham who march on to the next stage of the FA Cup.

£££££££

This reminds me of the 6-0 thrashing Chelsea gave West Bromwich Albion, on Saturday 14th August.

That was for the Premier league. Judging by the way Chelsea dominated the game from start to finish it wouldn’t surprise me that Chelsea won the league again.

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Well done to Harry Redknapp on Spurs wining their game against the Young Boys FC.

Peter Crouch clearly has personal problems regarding his relationship with model Abbey Clancy, which are of his own making but I’m glad at his hat-trick score yesterday.

I’m glad Tottenham won 4-0 against the Young Boys team of Berne to go into the next stage of the Europa League.

To see his link supporting Crouch, click here.

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No wonder Bolton wanted to show the Premier League they are here to stay, which they got against West Ham on Saturday 21st August.

When West Ham scored and it was 2-1 to the Wanderers, many in the Hammers end believed they had a chance of at least sharing the points.

But when it was 3-1 to Bolton, it wasn’t surprising that many of the West Ham fans left early, knowing that there team were out of the game.

Such is life.

Until next time, bye.

Andria

Well, well, well

2010-08-13T08:48:00.000-07:00

It seems that former Arsenal and England footballer Ian Wright has departed from the UK tv broadcaster Five.

I still have my reservations about him regarding his behaviour during his days as a professional player, but for more on this, click here.

And congratulations to England on it's 2-1 victory against Hungary.

Then again, looking at the coverage towards David Beckham, who's really bothered apart from me?

Light and peace

Andria

Hey!

2010-07-19T04:41:00.000-07:00

Yes it’s me again.

I’ll try to be as quick as I can.

Best match that wasn’t the final

Holland weren’t expected to win in the quarter final but they did break the South American giants Brazil.

The Dutch manager Van Marwijk had created a good team, with Holland taking every opportunity there was against Brazil.

But my personal favourite was Uruguay against Germany. What a match!

This game showed me that Germany is a force to content with in the future.

Best manager

Diego Maradona.

He inspired a team to believe in themselves, despite having little experience as a manager and having many personal problems.

Well done on getting his extension as Argentina’s manager to the year 2014.

I just love this comment from him, regarding some remarks that have been madr about his national side:

"Many journalists should apologise to the players.

"I'm not suggesting you drop your trousers but it would be honest and great so we all get along better."

Now for my, ahem, disappointments…

Biggest flop as a player

Italy’s Fabio Cannavaro.

Time and age catches up with everyone and it has for this 36 year-old, as he was caught out of position and dived into tackles.

I really think either he cleans up his act, like fellow Wales and Manchester United defender Ryan Giggs, who despite being the same age, shows no signs of slowing down and goes from strength to strength, or call it a day on his international career.

Biggest flop as a team

France – being caught on camerea being disrespectful to their trainer and being held back by manager Raymond Domenech was unacceptable.

This team, with the natural talent of Thiery Henry, Patrice Evra and Nicolas Anelka, should of put their individual issues behind them.

They deserved to be beaten by the host nation South Africa 2-1 in the quarter finals.

As the old saying goes, united we stand, divided we fall – they did justice to those words, regardless of the outcome of Henry’s talks with the country’s president Nicolas Sarkozy.

Biggest mistake by a referee

I know is predicable of me, but Jorge Larrionda and hs assistant did deserve the stick they got for disallowing Frank Lampard’s goal.

If they had rightfully allowed it, the score would have been 2-2 at half time.

That window of opportunity could have changed the direction of the England-Germany game.

Thank goodness for the other sporting activities for me to talk about…

Andria

Viva Espanola

2010-07-17T07:54:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Spain on winning the FIFA football World Cup.

I’m glad at least one of my top three teams got the top prize.

The final, against Holland, was a temperamental match but the Spanish did deserve their one-nil victory.

It’s hard to imagine this is the first time the Spaniards have won.

I just love this short documentary, which is why I rooted for them.

To see it, click here.

£££££££

Now that it’s over, I will say who was, in my view, was:

The Best Team:

For this one, I didn’t need the help of Paul the octopus!

Spain started slowly but did achieve what they deserved.

Their hammering of Germany was tremendous – they should’ve won that match 4-nil.

If Fernando Torres had been on form, they would have won against the finalists Holland by a greater margin.

The Best Player:

Wesley Sneijder.

When he got a chance with the ball, he was very effective. His playing was simply what football is about: magnificent, outstanding and crucial. To see some of his goals, click here.

Holland wouldn’t have got to the final without him.

The Best Team Performance:

I did underestimate Germany.

Their destruction of England was painful to watch but Germany did show their willingness to try new strategies and repeated this against England and Argentina..

I want to say, I did enjoy watching Argentina, which does explain why I'm glad Diego Maradona got a renewed contract as their manager.

But the pace and willingness of Joachim Low’s team clearly stunned Argentina, whose defence wasn’t up to much – they should of watched their opponent’s previous match against England!

That's why I'm glad Manchester United's Sir Alex Ferguson spoke up for him.

The Best Goal:

There were many that deserve this but the winning goal by Spain’s Andres Iniesta was breathtaking as well as unexpected.

I was searching for a link for you to see it again but the sites I sech for have been blocked on copyright grounds!

The Best Tactic:

I have to hand it to the USA. I really believed they would lose against England 3-1 but they kept their nerve and composure.

I think they will have a future in this tournament, despite coming from a country more interested in playing baseball, basketball and a corrupt version of rugby.

The Best Match:

Holland against Brazil – the Dutch stopped the South Americans in their tracks.

The Samba Kings need to go back to the drawing board, unless they want to end up like the once mighty West Indies cricket team.

I’ll state more, including my view on best manager but for now, bye, as I do have a tendency to go on and on and on…

Andria

It’s an all European final.

2010-07-08T05:27:00.000-07:00

So the UEFA cup is between Holland and Spain.

A little known fact, the reason this Dutch country wears orange, is due to the Royal house that still rules Holland.

We in Britain were once ruled by the house of Orange. That was William III and Mary, which became known as the Glorious Revolution of 1688.

This is when Mary, the eldest of his two protestant and legitimate daughters of King James II, was invited by Parliament to become this country’s king and queen to replace her dad.

Unfortunately William and Mary are also remembered in Northern Ireland for the Battle of the Boyne, which is why we in mainland Britain don’t really talk about them.

James II was a Roman Catholic and the Catholics ruled Ireland during his reign. It’s also from his lineage that we get the Old Pretender and New Pretender, after the English deposed of him.

The Irish rebelled and invited James II to lead them, which he did with help of troops of Louis XIV from France.

James was defeated on the banks of the Boyne on July 12, 1690, which led to the Treaty of Limerick the following year, which made Ireand a part of the Union with Scotland and Wales.

But it also sealed the start of The Troubles – that’s only ended over ten years ago.

Needless to say, I hope we don’t have a repeat of that this Sunday!

I’m just glad at least one of the teams I originally said is a contender to win is in the final.

I don’t understand what went wrong for Brazil, who usually have all bases covered.

Argentina did well but couldn’t hold it together against Germany, so I’m going to route for Torres and company to win.

Go Sppaaaaaiiiiinnnn.

See you soon.

Andria.

WHAT A GOOOOOOAAAAAAL!

2010-07-05T11:13:00.000-07:00

The three-point strike by David Villa in the 83rd minute against Paraguay was a stunner.

It kept me and the punters on the edge of our seats.

I have to thank both teams for playing football with such excitement as well as commitment and determination.

They really displayed why football is so important – it really is food for the soul.

If you want to see highlights of this brilliant match, click here.

*******

Sadly I can’t say the same for Brazil, who were my favourites to win.

When the chips were down, they behaved disgracefully against Holland.

Considering most of their players are from Suriname which, like Brazil, is also in South America with the same history as the Caribbean countries, then it’s not surprising they too have a natural affinity in how the game should be played.

By the time the match was over, I was glad the Samba Kings were going home.

It’s that type of playing which invites the hooligans into the sport of football, so lets hope we never see such deliberate stamping on fellow players again.

*******

I really hope that Diego Maradona keeps his job as manager for Argentina.

This troubled genius seems to have become a man since accepting national responsibility for their football team.

Many men would of made a deal with the devil to of had his talent and fame. The same goes for another misguided genius, George Best.

After abusing the excesses of fame with alcohol and drugs, it really is pleasing to see that he’s finally found his way in life.

*******

That’s why I also feel for soon-to-be former captain of Portugal, Christiano Ronaldo.

First of all, congratulations on him becoming a dad – I’m sure it will help him to be a stronger and better man.

Say what you like about this person but he’s had the strength to remain teetotal – his dad died a few years ago, due to complication attached to his alcoholism.

For Mr Ronaldo to have the will-power to say no to this popular product and to become a dad - with his mum and sisters actively involved - shows true strength of character.

Unfortunately he was caught on camera criticising the team manager’s strategy, led by former Manchester United deputy manager Carlos Queiroz.

He must have been unhappy at being the team’s lone striker, which also displays that staff must have confidence in their manager.

I really hope all goes well for both men. I know that sounds like a kop out but I don’t want to criticize either man – I have total respect for both of them.

*******

It’s a shame that Nicolas Anelka will never play for France again.

The French version of the Football Association have confirmed he will never be picked again after being sent home from the World Cup after his argument with their manager, Raymond Domenech.

*******

Congratulations to Serena Williams for wining the women’s single tournament at Wimbledon.

Most people who started their tennis careers around the same time as the Williams sisters have retired.

So well done on Serena, for hanging on in there and winning the same title again.

I also say congrats to Rafael Nadal for winning the men’s singles – he displayed true humility in getting the top prize.

Bye for now!

Andria

England aren’t the only team out of the world cup.

2010-07-03T07:40:00.000-07:00

Other fine teams include Brazil, Portugal and Ghana.

On that issue, may I say I’m glad Fabio has decided to stay as manager of England.

I’m sorry, like most people in England that are men didn’t defeat Germany but that don’t mean Mr Capello should be our scapegoat.

I feel John Barnes said it the best in The Evening Standard newspaper, when saying the team ethic wasn’t there.

I fully agree when he said former England captain John Terry said a lot but didn’t concede to the fact that he was a part of the problem.

Read it for yourself by clicking here.

*******

I also feel for Ghana’s Asamoah Gyan hitting the bar against Uruguay.

If there’s one thing I can say from personal experience, nothing in life is more expensive than regret.

That’s why I urge Mr Gyan, please put that free kick miss behind you, realise life goes on or live a lifetime of bitterness which will have a long-tem effect on your career.

It’s either one or the other, you can’t have both.

Furthermore there are things that happen we cannot foresee; its how we deal with them that shape us as a person.

Turn away from self-pity, as Coolio says, in his inspirational song, I'll C U when you get there.

Listen for yourself by clicking here.

*******

All this talk about football makes me forget, our country won the cricket one-day series.

For many years, this game was dominated by the Aussies but not any more!

Go England!

Light and Peace

Andria

Oh dear.

2010-06-24T05:31:00.000-07:00

Just as I was enjoying team England getting through to the next round of the UEFA cup, I hear that our countrymen are playing against Germany.

They haven't won this cup for more than 20 years but we haven't won it for the past 44 years!

We've only won it once - that's certainly not the case with Germany.

I'm really not looking forward to that match but I will be (hopefully) at a pub cheering our boys on.

Come on England!

Well done England.

2010-06-23T09:14:00.000-07:00

I must say the red jersey and shorts seem to have done the trick.

This time, the team did play with passion and unity.

The 25th minute goal from Defoe wasn’t brilliant but it mattered!

Rooney has still got some work to do on his temper.

The substitution of Heskey was needed, as when it came, England really needed someone who would hold onto the ball.

But who would have thought the USA would make it to the top 16!

Their last-minute goal against Algeria meant they finished the top team of this group, with England coming second.

Football really is a funny game – who would have thought the USA, more known for American football, baseball and basketball would make it this far?

Bye for now.

Andria

Well done Sven!

2010-06-22T05:31:00.000-07:00

Although I’m still not a fan of his, I admit the Ivory Coast did play well against Brazil yesterday – they even managed to get one back, so the three goal victory wasn’t a complete whitewash.

The Ivory Coast was a team – that’s what football is about. Sven clearly knows how to be an effective manager.

But the seven-nil team Portugal had against South Korea was a whitewash! All I can say on that one is, congratulations Portugal.

Everyone knew Spain were going to win against Honduras but Chile did silence the previous giant slayers Switzerland with their one-nil victory over a team whose country, until their previous defeat over the Spaniards, was only famous for its cheese.

I’m off to see the host nation South Africa take on France.

Looking at the recent goings-on in their camp, it will be interesting to see who plays for France!

See you soon!

Andria

I cannot believe the result!

2010-06-20T10:26:00.000-07:00

I don’t understand what’s happening to team England but I can’t help but feel the manager of Germany has got a point!

I love the fact that the English premier league has brought over a host of football players that otherwise wouldn’t set foot on our shores.

But the last display of England’s goalless draw against Algeria on Friday 18th June was terrible!

I would have preferred a diamond formation. If Rooney feels he’s up for that type of responsibility, let him shine.

Either way, I’m still going to buy a cowboy-style white-with-red England hat I’ve spotted today at the one pound shop and cheer our boys on against Slovenia this Wednesday.

But considering today’s matches, well the match of Portugal and the Ivory Coast is bound to be of interest.

I admit it would be nice to see if Sven Goran Eriksson has the right to call himself a manager.

He brought nothing but embarrassment and ridicule to the England team during his unsuccessful tenure.

He was a man more famous for his bed-hopping ways – who now cares about Faria Alam?

The Ivory Coast is welcome to him!

I think my top three for this tournament isn’t going to be affected by any of this!

Bye for now.

Andria

Come on England!

2010-06-11T12:39:00.000-07:00

Capello clearly doesn’t have the same praise for Heskey as his Spurs manager Harry Redknapp – the England manager has insisted he will not announce the start-up against the USA tomorrow until two hours before the match.

Although I was scornful of Emile after seeing him perform at the friendly against Mexico last month, I hope all goes well for him, especially since losing Rio Ferdinand, to an unwanted knee injury.

Here’s my top three to win:

1st Brazil
2nd Spain
3rd Argentina

I know, no mention of England but with Rio gone, I don't think England will break the quarter final hoodoo.

I must go – I’m watching the match between France and Uruguay.

Light and Love

Andria

Rafael Benitez and Liverpool FC have parted ways!

2010-06-03T13:10:00.000-07:00

Well considering the rumours linking Mr Benitez to the Inter Milan managerial job, it was only a matter of time before a mutual parting of the ways between the Liverpool FC directors and Rafael.

Money (lack of it) is clearly a factor in the decline of this once mighty club but so is ownership issues, which leads to a clear lack of direction.

Imagine being Steven Gerrard or his team-mate Glen Johnson at this moment.

They should be training for England regarding the World Cup but will have the above issue on their mind.

In other words, they have to wonder whether they’ve got a job to come back to after the Cup or should they, as Torres is rumoured, leave for pastures new.

Either way it’s probably for the best Benitez is gone as it does seem that during the 2009/10 season, Liverpool FC ran out of steam and ideas.

Old clubs need new blood in order to keep fresh and relevant in this day and age. But that should serve as a warning to anyone wanting the return of Kenny Daglish.

He’s been out of football management too long to give Liverpool the edge they need to be the leaders they were in the 1980s.

We know, as Manchester City have displayed, nowadays you need to have a manager with vision – that’s what Mark Hughes clearly lacked during his time at City, which is why I’ll be surprised to see him at The Kop.

But you also need owners who are going to stick around. Liverpool FC doesn’t have seem to have this either.

So whoever does become the manager of Liverpool will have to tackle all these issues and lead the team to at least the Championship League again.

Good luck to him as he will certainly need it!

Andria

I’m not surprised about Theo Walcott!

2010-06-02T04:42:00.000-07:00

If anything, I think Fabio Capello made the right decision to reject Mr Walcott.

The same goes for his decision to say no to Ledley King.

That’s because after seeing the way these two played at Wembley during the friendly of England versus Mexico, I wouldn’t pick them either.

That match, on Monday 24th May, showed their weakness outdid their strengths.

Walcott did have a lot of energy and pace but Arsenal’s injury-prone player was of little threat – then there’s Lennon who has added impact to his speed.

That’s why I’m glad Aaron got the nod from the England manager.

Then there’s Lennon’s Spurs captain Ledley King. Although he scored the first goal during the above friendly, the rust soon settled in and this allowed Mexico to score during the match.

Then he continued to show fatigue thought the game. By the time it finished, Mr King looked as if he was relieved.

I also believe Capello has shown wisdom, strength and maturity in picking a team whose average age is over 28.

But I’m surprised James Milner made it into the England 23 as like Walcott, he did very little to make the nation sit up and take any notice of him during the England friendly at Wembley.

As for Glen Johnson, well after the unimpressive season he’s had at Liverpool (which includes scoring an own goal – ouch!) I’m glad he’s shown the strength of character to prove how important self belief is.

Nevertheless a decision’s been made – so I wish the current 23 all the best as they head off to South Africa.

In the language of the team who provided such strength and skill which enabled Capello to make his decision, Adios Amigos!

Andria

X

I have demylenation disease.

2010-04-21T10:05:00.000-07:00

You are entitled to ask: “What is that?” I did to my doctor when she told me in mid-March last year.

At first, she asked me if I was sitting down – that’s when I realised the painful headaches and bruises I kept getting down my right leg weren’t going to go away by taking a few paracetamols.

When the doctor had said what I was experiencing, I wrote down the name of this disease and typed it in Google after my conversation with Dr Kapoor ended.

When I saw what it meant on Wikipedia, I at first refused to accept it was me – I drank healthy green liquids, lots of water and exercised regularly, so I felt my GP must be wrong.

I also noticed no black people were stated as having this illness. We do but the majority of us just don't want to mention it to other people, including friends and family.

But I had all the symptoms, from bumping into things to losing balance for no reason. I was seeing double vision and had problems in focusing on objects in front of me.

It’s been decided that I’ve got a clinically isolated syndrome, which is the first isolated attack. The current diagnosis criteria for MS does not allow doctors to give a MS diagnosis until a second attack takes place.

I can't touch type anymore and have to resort to one finger typing. I also use a walking stick to get by but that doesn’t stop unkind people from telling my parents they saw me drunk when really it’s my sense of balance and co-ordination that’s gone awry.

It’s not been easy. I recently had to have speech therapy and physical therapy but its all helped me and I’m very grateful for all the help I’ve had.

That’s another reason I’m glad not to be working for one magazine whose owner was cheating the Inland Revenue at my expense – thank goodness I kept one of the few payslips I was handed which showed he did claim to be paying me under PAYE (pay as you earn) which also meant I wasn’t knowingly involved in any fraudulent behaviour.

As far as I’m concerned, there are some lines no-one should cross. Cheating the tax man (or woman) is one of them.

I don’t officially back any political party but Lord Ashcroft, shame on you!

It’s thanks to the NHS I’ve been able to get the relevant treatment necessary for my condition.

I’m so glad I can speak again and at least do one-finger typing.

That’s why I’m so glad the USA accepts change needs to happen for the better regarding their healthcare. At the moment, nobody will give me insurance to work in this great country.

That’s also why I haven’t been able to fill my blog like I did last year but that will change for the better – I like having the right to speak and be heard!

I realised the power of blogs many years ago regarding the coverage of Hurricane Katrina – they told me the news regarding the treatment of the people in New Orleans, not the BBC or ITN, which left a lot to be desired of the U.S authorities and President George W Bush.

Regardless of one’s political views, the handling of the aftermath was one of Dubaya’s worst moments as head of the world’s most powerful country.

No wonder the now disgraced music artist KanYe West accused the then president of not caring about black people.

BBC news has learnt its lesson. Their coverage of the earthquake in Haiti a few months ago, especially for the ten o’clock news, was magnificent and showed what journalism is all about – life and people.

So I’m proud to announce my health problems online while not giving up my commitment to good standards of journalism.

I’m determined I will get up to high standards again shortly as I don’t want to spend the rest of my life on benefit.

Then again I’ve experienced prospective employers who find ways of making me miss interviews or registration by giving me times that are well after the relevant appointment, so don’t be fooled that discrimination doesn’t exist anymore for disabled people.

I so wanted to talk about the football match on Monday 19th April between Liverpool and West Ham but that was two days ago.

What I can still say from that match is, who needs Torres? – the Kop don’t! Although I don’t think Liverpool will finish fourth – the people behind Manchester City clearly want that place, that’s why they spent so much money on players like Tevez and Bridge and got rid of Mark Hughes last year.

At the same time, looking at the external problems of Liverpool FC, including the American owners decision to sell the club - as we’ve seen with Portsmouth - what goes on outside the pitch DOES affect the performance of the team.

That’s what football is about, team ability and how they operate with each other. Even if the rest of the team just care about the next pay cheque, if one person has deeper concerns, it will affect the performance of the club.

*******

The Ferguson rumours begin once more.

Yes he’s going to retire – again!

Please read the book titled, Married to a man of two halves, the story of Agnes Docherty, the original Footballers Wife, by their son Tom Docherty.

The Doc, as the former Manchester United manager was called, dealt firmly with three heroes of the Red Devils, George Best, Denis Law and Sir Bobby Charlton and all the time his first wife Agnes stood by him.

The way he treated Agnes and his jobs as a player and manager, before and after leaving her for the Man united physiotherapist’s wife in 1977, left me awe inspired about what really goes on in and around this sport and made me realise no one’s life is complete without someone to share it with.

It’s also very interesting to read what she thinks of her husband regarding Sir Alex Ferguson.

Looking at what the Doc took on, its not surprising that many view him as the best manager of Manchester United between Sir Matt Busby and Sir Alex Ferguson.

But my favourite is still Ron Atkinson!

Take care

Light and Love

Andria

X

Jonathon Dibb, 1974 - 2010, rest in peace

2010-03-31T05:08:00.000-07:00

I'm sorry to report that yesterday was the funeral service of my first cousin's husband, held in Yorkshire.

Jennifer Dibb and her partner had a happy life together but he had some personal issues that only Johnathon could deal with.

When he committed suicide, it was a shock for all of us.

I still have a picture of them on my wall at their wedding day, held in south-west London.

It was at a registry office eight years ago and it was a happy day, proving you don't have to go to extraordinary lengths, such as employing a harpist, or ride on an animal, to mark such an important day.

It was John who also helped me focus on sports journalism and told me of his passion for football - soccer to you from the USA.

At least now, like the legendary performer Michael Jackson and the brilliant clothes designer Steve McQueen, I hope he's now finally free from the upheaval and misery in his life.

My condolences to his wife Jennifer and the rest of his immediate family.

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Producers of the film The Dammed United, about Brian Clough's ill fated tenure as manager at Leeds United, have apologised to a former football player and have paid him compensation over the way he was portrayed.

Defender Dave Mackay was viewed in the film as breaking a players revolt that was mounted at Derby County in 1973 in an attempt to get Clough reinstated following his resignation in an argument with chairman Sam Longson.

But Mackay was a player manager of Swindon Town at that time and had been since 1971.

This is by no means the first time a film has wrongly portrayed people and important situations.

William Wallace, aka Braveheart, was a lowlander, not a highlander.

The shoes worn by Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz were silver - Hollywood made them ruby red to show off it had finally mastered using colour - or as my American spellchecker keeps telling me, color.

I know this entry is short but I hope to be in contact with you soon.

Light and Peace

Andria

X

It's no longer Posh!

2010-03-24T10:06:00.000-07:00

That's the case regarding cash-strapped Portsmouth, as they've got the permission to sell players outside the transfer window.

Sadly it's what the Pompey board must to in order to ease their financial troubles, as the Premier League managers who have let the sale go through clearly realise.

There already having to deal with a 9-point penalty for going into administration, but there are a few rules, as noted in the Premier League statement:

1) Players may be sold to other Premier League clubs but may not play first-team football for the new club before the end of the season.

2) Players may be sold to a Football League or foreign club, subject to FIFA's approval.

3) Portsmouth may enter into an agreement with another Premier League, Football League or foreign club that a player will be transferred to that other club in the summer.

Sadly we all realise it's for certain 'The Posh' will be relegated but West Ham United, Burnley, Hull City, Wolves, Bolton and Wigan are all still in danger.

To make things worse, looking at the defeat they suffered at home to fellow strugglers Wolves 1-3, it's time to realise passing football doesn't cut it when you're facing a survival dog-fight.

I'm sure they don't want to end up like fellow London FC Millwall - they were booted out of top-flight football just when the Premier League started in 1991 and haven't been back since!

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I don't talk much about cricket and I hope this entry changes that.

Well done for England winning their match against Bangladesh.

Alastair Cook has ended his stint as captain with a full track record and two Test centuries.

At the same time, I do admire his honesty and his willingness to learn more and improve as a leader - something I wish we all could realise.

Mr Cook said after his victory: "...the captaincy had its moments. I now know how I need to get better as a captain, especially with my leadership in the dressing room."

I follow and keep internet articles from Rene Carayol, a man I interviewed for Pride magazine - he runs workshops on leadership which I find very fulfilling.

I still remember the words said by one of his guests, the Managing Director of Asda: "You can't change a culture overnight."

For years I kept beating myself up over why things have fallen apart in two placements where I worked my fingers to the bone - I regularly worked 18 hours a day for both, at a radio station and magazine simultaneously, especially since it was clear other members of their staff didn't know the law regarding journalism, that included a women who had trained with me more than five years before!

It was also clear that some, including the editors and the last staff writer, couldn't even spell.

But as the MD mentioned above said, if a certain culture exists, it's going to take time to remove it. If that behaviour benefits the owner and selected people, it's fair to say they will do everything to keep it that way.

I find it's best to just take a deep breath and go, knowing that you've done your duty - let the rest of them deal with the consequences of their own actions, whether they admit to it or not.

As demonstrated in the book, called the Lovely Bones by Alice Seabold (I won't mention the film version) justice finds its own way of dealing with people - call it God, Jesus or Karma.

So three cheers to Mr Cook for having the honesty and frankness to realise constant self-improvement is what we need to do, not just to be a better person but to really have a substance to give to the world.

Changing you name and location won't help if you're not prepared to change yourself, so if anyone wants to know more about Mr Rene Carayol, click here.

Until next time!

Andria

Dick Francis, rest in peace

2010-02-15T09:43:00.000-08:00

These are me just having fun with a camera!

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I’m sure you have already heard but the jockey turned author Dick Francis, has died, aged 89.

He rode 345 winners and competed in 2.305 races.

In the 1956 Grand National he was riding Devon Lock to what seemed like certain victory, when the horse collapsed within 50 yards of the finishing line.

He gave up racing months later, due to a nasty fall.

It was his son who encouraged him to write an autobiography about his experiences during the Grand National – which also showed his natural talent of writing.

Here’s a good link, by The Taipei Times. To see it for yourself, click here.

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It seems that Ashley Cole can’t stay out of trouble!

I think you have read the stories about him sending pictures of himself by mobile phone, so what else is there for me to add?

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The pictures of Danielle Bux in today’s Daily Mirror newspaper are stunning!

A further congratulations to her for holding onto her original surname, instead of taking on her husband – Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker.

Don’t take my word for it, to see them for yourself, click here.

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I like reading the column by Paul Ince in the News of the World newspaper.

He may not be everyone’s cup of tea but it’s hard to ignore him.

Check him out for yourself by clicking here.

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Don’t hesitate to visit my other internet site!

To view it, click here.

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Be good!

Andria

X

What a week!

2010-02-11T09:49:00.001-08:00

So much has happened both on and off the pitch, it’s hard to fit everything in!

So I will say to my bro hard luck for Liverpool over their loss against Arsenal.

Yes it was handball against Steven Gerrard’s free kick - Arsenal’s Cesc Fabregas even admitted it afterwards.

**
I’m saddened to hear Manchester United stalwart Ryan Giggs is out of action with an injured arm.

He sustained the injury during the match against Aston Villa, which resulted in a 1-1 draw.

This match is more remembered for the tackle that saw Nani get a red card – that kind of attack would have been accepted ten years ago but not nowadays!

**

Twit of the week goes to Fifa president Sepp Blatter who has claimed that in some countries, John Terry would have been applauded rather than sacked as national team captain for having an alleged affair.

I think the majority of England supporters back the England manager Fabio Capello for taking such a disciplined line rather than let it drag on and on and on.

Perhaps he should read what was said in he book Married to a man of two halves, the story of the original footballer’s wife by Agness Docherty with Tom Docherty – she too had to put up with more than one infidelity by her husband – many still view Tom senior as the best Manchester United manager between Sir Matt Busby and Sir Alex Ferguson.

Here’s some more pictures - one includes my dad, another my mum!

Light and Peace

Andria

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Well done Manchester United!

2010-01-28T05:21:00.000-08:00

That’s not because of its success of trouncing the neighbouring team Manchester City in the Carling Cup Final.

It’s for its stance against hooliganism at that match.

To have any football player – even if they are representing your bitter rival - hit by a coin, even if it’s thrown by one of your ‘fans’ is insulting and cheapens the game.

I truly hope Manchester United catch the person(s) responsible for soiling such a brilliant game at Old Trafford with their childish actions.

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I’m saddened to hear that Crystal Palace has gone into administration.

This was the club that gave Ian Wright a chance to play at a professional level. Because he was over the age of 21, it was a risk for them to take him on but it did pay off.

Ian left Crystal Palace acrimoniously because he wanted to move onto bigger things, which included winning championships.

At that time, Arsenal was the only club in London that could provide the challenge he so desperately wanted.

Looking at how things have since turned out for him and Crystal Palace, it’s clear that Mr Wright made the right – or should that be the Wright - decision.

But as one door shuts, another opens. Victor Moses, a striker for CP, looks set to be going to new pastures.

To get more on this saga, press here.

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Well done Andy Murray for reaching the Australian Open Final.

Tennis doesn’t have the same appeal in Scotland as it does in England and Wales, which is why I’m both astonished and pleased at the success of Andy.

For an up to date link on his achievement, click here.

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The pictures included are those during a trip to Barbados - imaging waking up to view like this in your back-garden!

The others, including the man dancing above, are during a party.

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Don’t forget to visit my other internet address by clicking here.

Light and Peace

Andria

Time for Teletubbies!

2010-01-27T08:49:00.000-08:00

That was the first thought that came to mind when I saw the futuristic home Manchester United ace Gary Neville wants to build.

This carbon-free bunker, which will be powered by wind and solar panels, will cost the 34 year-old £8milllion.

The pad, which keen environmentalist Gary spent three years planning, will include a pool and gym - if (or when) he gets permission to go ahead with the scheme.

Gary may not have the natural agility of Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes on the football pitch but judging on the architect's impression, he clearly has a keen eye for design and detail.

Take a look yourself and read more about the plan, by clicking here.

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A man has been charged for racially abusing England and Sunderland striker Darren Bent's mum.

Sunderland fan John Andrew Davison, allegedly made the remarks last November, at Wigan's DW Stadium after Bent's side lost 1-0.

Bent condemned the said remarks on his Twitter page.

Mr Davison, 25, from Chester-le-Street Co Durham, now has an appointment at Wigan JPs next month, to give a reply to the charge.

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Jermain Defoe's half-brother was killed by one punch in the face.

Jade Defoe, 26, is said to of fallen to the pavement by the force of the strike in Leytonstone, east London, which happened in broad daylight.

Mr Defoe suffered a fractured skull and brain injuries as a result of the altercation.

Mr Christopher Farley admits the assault.

The trial for Jade's death is in processes.

The popular rapper died in hospital four days after the attack in Stratford, east London, which happened after 4pm on 20 April 2009.

Mr Farley, 34, of Leytonstone, east London, denies manslaughter.

The trial continues.

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Tonight's the night for the ultimate grudge match!

At this moment I'm not concerned about the Premiership title race.

Looking at what happened last week, today's Manchester derby is going to be unforgettable!

Who can forget the way Carlos Tevez behaved on the pitch last week, after getting one over his former club and calling a former Man Utd team-mate a boot-licker?

I have to admit, City have become a better team, attitude wise, under Roberto Mancini.

Last year, in the first confrontation of the season between them, you could tell it was United who wanted to win and City who would settle for a draw.

But of late, it's been City who really wants to succeed, rather than be grateful for the privilege of simply being the most costly team in the league.

I'm going to reserve a seat at my local pub for this event!

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I've included pictures from a recent holiday in Barbados - one includes a picture of my dad's sisters - enjoy!

Don't forget to visit my other internet site by clicking here.

Be good!

Light and Peace

Andria

I’m glad Elen Rivas is back!

2010-01-25T07:59:00.000-08:00

I’ve read her interview in Fabulous, the News of the World magazine and I’m glad to see that she’s making a comeback.

The former fiancée of Chelsea FC midfielder Frank Lampard is fighting fit again after last year's break-up.

Ms Rivas is now the face of Ultimo’s Diamond Boutique range for Tesco.

It’s her first launch in modelling.

To see more of her interview, including a behind-the-scenes video, click here.

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I can fully understand David Beckham’s grim face when a blonde TV presenter grabbed him by his groin.

Elena Di Cioccio wore a pair of yellow rubber gloves as she launched for his private parts, saying she wanted to see if he measured up to his photographs for Emporio Armani underwear.

I read what she said in reply, insisting that Mr Beckham had conned us.

Nevertheless, if it was a male presenter groping the sexual organs of a woman celebrity, I’m sure people would be calling that sexual assault.

To judge for yourself, click here.

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It’s good to se West Ham star Calum Davenport back in training.

He’s allegedly been knifed by his sister Cara’s boyfriend.

But today he’s pleaded not guilty at Luton Crown Court to assaulting his sister.

The Daily Mail has reported this issue.

To get a good read of the facts, click here.

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It’s been suggested that former Real Madrid favourite Ruud Van Nistelrooy is going to West Ham.

But what from what’s recently come out, it seems that he’s destined for Hamburg FC.

To read a good review - by The Independent newspaper - of this talented player and the troubles he has faced throughout his career, click here.

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England captain and Chelsea FC ace John Terry wants to be a country gent.

He looked great at the National Television Awards last Wednesday but it seems Mr Terry and his wife want to get away from London.

This will mean leaving his mansion in Surrey.

To read further, click here.

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Sports Relief 2010 is here!

T-shirts for this event are already on sale at Sainsbury’s to raise money for this good cause, which kicks off on March 19.

In one TV sketch, Formula One World Champion Jenson Button gets a driving lesson!

The Mirror newspaper has done a good layout on this event.

To see a gallery of stars displaying fashion gear for Sports Relief 2010, click here.

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That’s it for now but please don’t forget to visit my other site, by clicking here.

Be good!

Light and Peace

Andria

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Happy January!

2010-01-19T07:53:00.000-08:00

I hope all of you enjoyed seeing in the New Year.

I was going to visit the London Eye - where I'm sure I would of seen many friends and colleagues, past and present.

I decided it was simply too cold that New Year's Eve night for me to go anywhere far from where I live.

So I stayed at home. Yes that was boring and I saw in 2010 alone but I was warm - that's a priority for me!

For all of you who ventured out to central London, I hope it all went well and you saw in the new decade with style and happiness.

*******

I'm glad Coleen Rooney's disabled sister is on the mend, after spending most of last month at Liverpool's Alder Hey Children's Hospital.

Her name is Rosie and she has the incurable Rett Syndrome - in this case, Mrs Rooney's sibling cannot speak or walk.

Rosie was admitted as she was suffering from Swine Flu, which could be fatal for this 11 year-old.

Despite recently becoming proud parents to a son called Kai, the Manchester United striker and his wife spent most of Christmas at Rosie's bedside - she was in intensive care.

Now she's out, Wayne can concentrate on the up and coming Manchester derby.

Looking at how City is doing under manager Roberto Mancini, it's not surprising that many don't want to say who will win.

*******

My heartfelt wishes goes to Annmarie, the wife of Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin Van Der Sar.

This quiet and demure woman reportedly collapsed at home during the family’s Christmas celebration.

It's suspected she's had a Stroke.

Van Der Sar, the number one keeper for this club, has got official permission to stay in Holland at his wife's side until she makes a full recovery.

*******

I admire David Beckham sticking to his principles by insisting he will not play for mega-rich rivals Manchester City.

I read in his recent interview that he's also taking cookery classes - everyone needs a creative outlet.

Then again, that's what another former number seven at this club did to get him away from the stress and demands of football - Cristiano Ronaldo.

*******

Speaking of which, I saw his poses - which includes baring his impressive torso - to promote the latest Emporio Armani Underwear and Armani Jeans.

Either you admire or dislike the guy but lets face it, he has a lot of people who love him and Armani realises this too.

Even when Wayne Rooney married his wife in Italy in July 2008, the main issue of interest for many was whether Ronaldo would stay or leave Manchester United.

Now the Real Madrid winger is clearly showing he's got what it takes to succeed both on and off the pitch.

I would provide a link but I'm sure many of you have already found them - there's plenty to choose from!

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Well done Gareth Thomas on coming out as gay.

Rugby is a very male focused sport, so for this retired player to come out of the closet is very brave.

He's on the cover of Attitude magazine this month.

This is a good link, by the Pink News online.

*******

Another sports star on the cover of a magazine (which shows the crossover appeal of sport) is Tiger Woods, on the front cover of Vanity Fair U.S.A.

Looking at what's recently come out about him, particularly regarding his mistresses, well that too seems like it's going to be an interesting read.

The front cover picture of the shirtless golfer, taken by respected American portrait photographer Annie Leibovitz, certainly says a thousand words.

Here's a link to the Vanity Fair spread.

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Tottenham Hotspur boss Harry Redknapp will appear at the City of Westminster Magistrates Court on February 11.

He's being charged with avoiding tax and national insurance contributions between 1 April 2002 and 28 November 2007.

If he's found guilty, he's facing an unlimited fine and jail term.

Redknapp's solicitor put the disputed sum at around £40,000.00.

The move comes after nearly three years of investigation by the police and customs officers.

*******

Here comes the inevitable: people calling for Liverpool FC to sack manager Rafa Benitez.

The recent FA Cup exit against Reading has rocked this once mighty club.

But looking at how many of his top players have been out this year due to injury, I wasn't surprised that Liverpool are struggling to remain in the top half.

Now former Liverpool star Ronnie Whelan (1979-1994) is also calling for him to go.

Click here to see what he has to say about the current state of the club and Benitez.

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A bitter-sweet tune is reaching my ears over West Ham FC.

On the sweet side, they've got new owners of media magnate David Sullivan and long-time business partner David Gold, who sold their stake in Birmingham City last year.

But the bitter news is that West Ham have a £100million debt and the club may leave Upton Park.

The Bolyen family, one of them helped produce one of England and Wales's finest queens - Elizabeth I - have a link with this club.

My cousins, brothers Colin and Mark Dash, are lifelong Hammers fans.

The same goes for many members of staff who live locally and work at the home of England 1966 World Cup captain Bobby Moore.

How will they pull it off? Only time will tell.

Read the latest on this link.

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Another sad situation is facing my local football team.

Queens Park Rangers (QPR) have sacked another boss.

Paul Hart was dismissed after just five games.

Yet he is the tenth boss under Rangers co-owner Flavio Briatore's two and a half year reign.

Considering this club also has some of the world's most richest men as co-owners, including steel billionaire Lakshmi Mittal - I once saw his private room at QPR, which has pure crocodile skin wallpaper - it's really sad for me to see the state it's in.

Hopefully the next manager will at least provide some stability to this club until this season ends.

*******

I'm saddened to hear that legendary rugby union commentator Bill McLaren has died.

This great man, known as the voice of rugby, received an OBE, CBE and MBE for his services to sport.

Here's a good link, provided by the BBC.

*******

On a final note, it's good to hear that goalkeeper David James is in demand.

He's been going through a tortuous time at debt-ridden Portsmouth, so to see Spurs FC and Stoke FC wanting his services is a real break-through for the 39 year-old goalie.

I, like many, don't want to see Pompey go into administration but if I was in the same situation as Mr James, I would take whatever opportunities are available.

*******

Please don't hesitate to visit my other internet site.

Until next time

Light and Peace

Andria

X

Ho ho ho!

2009-12-24T15:57:00.000-08:00

Before the computer systems melt down, have a happy, Merry Christmas and a wonderful, great & special 2010 to one and all, love Andria X.

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Here are a couple of landscape pictures for you to enjoy. Whatever you think of Barbados, it's certainly not flat!

Hooray for the hero John Barnes

2009-10-22T09:48:00.000-07:00

I’m sad this father of six has declared himself bankrupt but I appreciate his reasons, which should also stand as a warning to today’s premier league stars about overspending on fancy clothes and luxury cars.

The best version of his current dilema can be found on this link by The Telegraph newspaper: www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/leagues/premierleague/liverpool/6398439/John-Barnes-declared-bankrupt.html

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A simple fact that all Liverpool fans should know: The Reds last won the league title in 1990, when legend Alan Hansen was in the team!

Looking at the way things are at the current moment; four sucessive defeats and many groin injuries galore, well its about time that Liverpool FC woke up to the realisation they don’t just consist of Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard.

That’s why selling Keane back to Tottenham Hotspur last season was a big mistake!

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We’ve got the ultimate grudge match this Sunday!

Liverpool vs Manchester United

The Red Devils are so used to winning and with so many injuries at LFC,l I have a strong feeling that I know who will win that match – my brother, who’s a Liverpool fan, won’t be pleased to know I don’t feel it will be his boys!

Anyway, I realise this entry is heavy about Liverpool FC, so I shall bid you bye, while I get ready to watch the Europa match of Fulham Vs AS Roma.

Here’s a good pre-review analysis, thanks to Sky Sports: www.skysports.com/football/match_preview/0,19764,11065_3190709,00.html

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The pictures are for your picking, taken during a trip to Barbados, in the Caribbean.

Say what you want, those Barbadians like to look after their churches, as you can see from the picture in the middle.

Be good!

Light and Peace

Andria

PS, don’t forget to check out my other internet page: www.andriagreaves.com

IT’S OUTRAGIOUS!

2009-10-02T05:23:00.000-07:00

That’s the opinion I bemoaned when looking at the recent result of three senior English teams playing in the UEFA Champions Cup.

MANCHESTER UNITED vs WOLFSBURG

The build-up was tremendous.

The England manager Fabio Capello was watching and Old Trafford was buzzing seeing its home team - who haven’t been beaten on their turf in the Champions league for four and a half years.

It was raining but that didn’t affect the pace and skill on display, as 6.7millions viewers watched ITV1, including the pub I was at, The innisfree, on Wednesday 30th September.

When Berbatov came on, replacing Michael Owen, on the 24th minute, many in the pub suspected something was affecting Owen; it now turns out a previous groin injury was affecting this pace.

In the 35th minute, the strike by Berbatov was too high to make a goal – united had started slowly but the pace did pick up - thanks to Wolfsburg.

At first, it seemed that both teams didn’t really care about scoring but when Wolfsburg showed their ambition by scoring first blood, well that seemed to jolt the Premier league champions to show some form.

The strong mid-shot by Edin Dzeko on the 56th minute, with his striking partner Grafite, did get the match moving, particularly since the only talking point until then was Michael Owen coming off after 19 minutes, due to a flare up of an old groin injury.

But I can only imagine the excitement of the Manchurians when United equalised, thanks to Ryan Gigg’s free kick three minutes later – which is when I found out from the room next door that Chelsea had scored, thanks to Nicolas Anelka, although the people in that room admitted the game was rather dull.

Then again, the Blues were without the suspended Didier Drogba, so I wasn’t surprised the game, against APOEL Nicosia, wasn’t charismatic.

Back onto Manchester United, the game was now starting to be worth watching, as Wolfsburg and United kept trying to find a way to win this match; neither team wanted to settle with a draw.

The breakthrough came thanks to Manchester’s Michael Carrick. His strike in the 77th minute was stunning; beautifully hit in the left-hand corner - it maintained the Reds’ record.

United’s Wayne Rooney needs a lot of work – his passion won’t score goals - but overall a good game for both United and Chelsea.

A well deserved congratulations to Ryan Giggs, who’s scored 150 goals for the team who spotted his talent when he was still a teenager.

It’s just a shame that hooliganism has reared its ugly head again, as Old Trafford suffered an unnecessary pitch invasion.

Stewards – yes they do work for the privilege of seeing the match free – had to restrain a lone but grotesquely overweight Manchester fan during the first half of the match.

Although he was ejected from the stadium, UEFA will still investigate the matter and come to a decision at the end of this month.

Here's a link to the innisfree pub.

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Meanwhile the England football manager, who must have been paying close attention to Michael Owen, has decided to ban the wives and girlfriends of his team from the football World Cup of 2012.

South Africa will miss out on what happened in Baden Baden, Germany – extra revenue at nightclubs, boutiques getting their (or their husband and boyfriends) money but respect must be given to Mr Capello.

When a new manager comes in, they usually want to introduce their style of doing things. This is true of any organisation you’re at; whether it’s working for the food department at IKEA or a new editor at a newspaper.

Unfortunately the lax system under the previous England manager, Sven-Goran Eriksson didn’t do the team any favours, especially since the squad didn’t beat the quarter final hoodoo of failing on penalties.

Everybody should have someone to share their lives with, sportspersons are no exception; having someone by our side does enrich our lives.

But the situation in Baden Baden did get out of hand and this time, even the Football Association - which has had its own fair share of controversy, regarding Miss Farah Alam - has refused to pay for the wives and girlfriends to fly to South Africa.

It’s also clear that Fabio is only giving footballers a place on the team by merit; that alone means we should have a squad that wins things and won’t be coming home early.

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I’m so pleased the Daily Mirror newspaper has serialised the story of Michael Shields, a Liverpool football fan wrongly jailed in Bulgaria.

Both he and his family went through four years of hell, as Mr Shields was convicted of attempted murder in 2005 in the European country of Bulgaria - for a crime he didn’t commit.

He was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time.

It just goes to show how difficult it can be for fans to follow their team in another country, so for all of you who have booked their tickets for South Africa in 2012, I truly wish you well and hope you have a great time.

For more on Michael Shields, click here.

Until next time, peace.

Light and Love

Andria

X

PS please don’t hesitate to visit my other internet site: www.andriagreaves.com

SUPPORT THE ENGLISH CRICKET TEAM!

2009-09-29T15:14:00.000-07:00

Enjoy the pictures above, they were taken during my holiday in Barbados - the 'flowers' are actually animals. They live off the small animals that float into their cave, in the top parish of Barbados, called St Lucy.

The windmill was built during colonial times but is still used during the crop over season, which starts in July.

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Don’t get me wrong, I’m happy to be of Caribbean descent but I’m also proud to be British and I’m especially pleased by the current success of the England team.

When it came to The Ashes last month, our boys snatched victory from the jaws of defeat – well done England.

So I was extremely pleased when I picked up a bottle of Buxton Natural Mineral Water – which I buy as it tastes good, then realised they are the official mineral water of the English cricket team.

I know this is blatant advertising but these days, you can’t get away from it, such as Coca-cola being displayed on the desk of the judges of Pop Idol America.

Buxton even have a freephone number you can call if you want to speak to anyone about its water, UK only, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, on: 0800 00 00 30.

They also have a postal address: PO Box No 207, York, YO91 1XY.

So here it is, a link to Buxton direct: www.buxtonwater.co.uk

I’m going to watch the Liverpool match on Wednesday 30th September – I can’t wait!

Until then, peace!

Andria

PS please don’t forget to check out my other internet site: www.andriagreaves.com

La la la oh la la la!

2009-09-22T06:56:00.000-07:00

Hi to one and all

I’ve seen and heard some of the flak Alesha Dixon has received over her role as a judge in Strictly Come Dancing.

I have to admit I wasn’t happy at the removal of 66 year-old Miss Arlene Phillips for 30 year-old Miss Alesha Dixon as age catches up with all of us.

I also thought it was refreshing to finally see a sexy, older woman with brains showing her experience and knowledge about the dance floor.

Former newsreader Angela Rippon and The Weakest Link presenter Anne Robinson shouldn’t be the only women over 60 on our screens!

But I do feel we should give Alesha a chance – at least until the end of this series.

I know what it’s like to be treated badly at work purely because others don’t like you replacing another person, so I’m glad Miss Dixon’s fellow judges are speaking up for her.

I can say from experience, it’s really awful to be stabbed in the back by your colleagues and so-called friends - sadly this does happen in any competitive industry, particularly now, in this recession.

It can take years to heal as self-doubt does creep in, so I wish the fellow judges and Miss Dixon well and hope she does improve.

I personally think there’s room for Alesha AND Arlene, so there wouldn’t have to be a tie-breaker vote by the senior judge Len Goodman - he's more than likely to support the couple he already voted to stay on.

Remember you're a survivour Alesha - you dealt with the break-up of your marriage to MC Harvey with dignity.

If she can survive that, well what else can't she deal with?

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As for the other film that has helped to change the world, it has to be Close Encounters of the Third Kind, released in 1977.

Until then, although unidentified flying objects and paranormal activity had been recorded in history, it wasn’t until this film was shown that society felt it was okay to publicly talk about it.

Likewise, I hope that everyone, myself included, realise that not everything in this world makes sense, such as suffering, pain and disease but these do exist and to behave as if they don't affect us, is to deny ourselves compassion and understanding.

Furthermore, as the film shows, you can learn something new if you’re willing to open your mind to it - that's what helps us to be human.

Now that I’m going to learn Portuguese, starting at the end of this month, I hope that by this time next year, I can say enough words to visit Angola, Brazil or Portugal and say I can speak the language – ha ha!

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As promised, here are a few more sport-themed books I'm happy to recommend:

SQUASH: Steps to Success, by Philip Yarrow
You'll learn the fundamentals thanks to this book, as Squash is a fast-paced tactical game.
My brother-in-law plays Squash on a regular basis and I'm sure that he too will recommend this book.

My Side by David Beckham
I admit this book was very predictable but did mention some interesting moments, including the love and support he received from his parents when starting out in football while attending primary and high school - so long as you get it from your local library!

Nick Faldo: Life Swings, the Autobiography
This was a man who led a chequered life both on and off the golf field - Mr Faldo is very honest about himself and others around him, including the break-up of his most recent marriage.

Soccer Skills and Tactics, by Tim Edward
Yes another football book but it does give some good illustrations on how to be a better footballer, whether you're a semi-pro or just starting out.

Teach yourself better Chess, by Bill Hartson
I prefer checkers, otherwise known as draughts here in Britain but if you want to impress the ladies/men this book will get you there.

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One issue of importance is the Not Another Drop peace march, starting at Roundwood Park in Harlesden, north-west London, on Saturday 26 September 2009, which begins at 12pm.

When I first wrote about the pain and effect of gun violence on four mums, one dad and the aftermath on the rest of their family, especially the brothers and sisters of the deceased, displayed in the July 2005 edition of Pride magazine, I never realised the legacy it would leave.

I’m very proud this article has since spawned numerous newspaper, magazine, radio and television news features/documentaries.

Please have a look at the following site:

http://www.brentbrain.org.uk/brain/brainzones.nsf/0/8974283F5E1A16F98025762A0031334B

If you can make it, please attend.

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I have to go now but I couldn’t help admiring this woman's courage and determination when she appeared on the X-factor:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qPj6WaiUh6o

Bye for now.

Andria

PS, don’t forget to visit my other site: www.andriagreaves.com

A BREAK FROM THE USUAL ROUTINE

2009-09-04T12:30:00.000-07:00

I was asked recently what my favourite films are and why.

The answer for me was simple. In Collateral, two men who on the surface, have nothing in common with each other briefly provide real meaning to each other’s life, even when one ends up terminating the other.

In Be Kind Rewind, a community realises its facing extinction if the small video shop closes down. In this day and age, where it’s very tempting to keep to oneself, it reminds us that no man is an island and shouldn’t seek to be one too.

In Star Wars, The Empire Strikes Back, well this one is simply my favourite of all the Star War films. I believe it was the strongest - script wise - and the one with most meaning; who can forget the moment when Luke Skywalker finds out Darth Vader is his dad?

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But I have two other films I’ve watched several times, simply because they helped, believe it or not, to change the world.

Blazing Saddles

After standing up for himself and just before he’s about to be executed, Bart, played by Cleavon Little, is saved by the State Attorney General, called Heady Lamarr - brilliantly portrayed by Harvey Korman - who makes him a sheriff that’s requested by the townsfolk of Rock Ridge.

The AT’s intentions aren't noble; he wants to use Bart to drive the local people away – especially since Lamarr's responsible for the current woes of Rock Ridge - or even better, have the townsfolk kill Bart and wash his hands clean of the town's eventual destruction (after all, he has done his bit of sending a law enforcer, so why should he send another one?) i.e. smart move!

That’s because construction of the railroad has to be changed, due to discovering quicksand on the original route - that's why Bart was due to be hanged, after striking the supervisor over the head for leaving him and a friend to drown - this means it has to go through the town of Rock Ridge.

Rather than let the residents have a fair slice of the profits gained, the AT wants to buy the land at a cheap price and keep the future gains of the railroad for himself – i.e. greed.

Blazing Saddles not only had a black man as the lead character (and was first released in 1974) it also cleverly shows how defeat can be turned into victory without having to play the race card.

In the Wild West, racial and sexual equality didn’t exist yet seeing how Sherriff Bart overcomes the original hatred of the townsfolk and defends them, which includes sticking to the principles of his job and defeating his enemies through humour, cunning, sensibility, hard work, honour and being downright clever, is something I aim for, which I hope is passed onto everyone I meet.

I also learned if there is one act of kindness I can do, whether it’s sweeping the floor before the disabled supporters arrive or helping a student achieve a demo or press cutting, we should always strive to be helpful; we all need friends and interaction with others, as Gene Wilder showed, when co-starting in this film as the ‘Waco Kid’ (which included his long-time comedy partner Richard Pryor, as one of the writers of this film).

I have another one but I’ll have to mention it another time.

Until then, be good.

Light and Peace

Andria

PS don’t forget to visit my other internet site: www.andriagreaves.com

Smoking Chimonga!

2009-09-03T03:43:00.000-07:00

That’s an expression that’s always got my attention - I first got it from my mate Tajinder Gill, who works at the NUT central London office.

What’s also getting my attention is this: the Premier League, for the first time in its 17 year history, has gone through the £1billion sales barrier.

Worldwide TV deals have played its role for this figure, as clubs were paid a set fee, money each time they were shown on TV and payment based on which position they ended up last season.

The Premier League itself received £2.7billion by selling TV rights for three seasons, from 2007 to 2010.

Looking at the success soccer has in getting both men and women in their grounds and in visiting neighbouring pubs, it’s more than likely the Premier League will get more in the future.

Furthermore the Premier is clearly not showing signs of being affected by the recession. The League’s turnover is up at least 6 per cent from last year’s figure of £951.6million.

Rather than list the results alphabetically, here’s a breakdown of the broadcast payments the football clubs received, according to where they finished last season
- I assure you, I did format this so the lines wouldn't go wonky but for some reason, it never sticks when I publish work on a PC!

1 Manchester United...............£51.5million
2 Liverpool.......................£50.3m
3 Chelsea.........................£47.7m

The top three get automatic entry to the UEFA Champions League Group stage.

4 Arsenal.........................£46.5m

This fourth placed London team goes through to the UEFA Champions League Play-off round.

5 Everton.........................£44.8m
6 Aston Villa.....................£44.5m

These two central England teams go through to the UEFA Europa League Play-off round.

7 Fulham..........................£40.1m

This London club goes through to the UEFA Europa League Third qualifying round.

8 Tottenham Hotspur...............£42.5m
9 West Ham United.................£40.4m
10 Manchester City................£40.1m
11 Wigan Athletic.................£37m
12 Stoke City.....................£36.3m
13 Bolton Wanderers...............£35.5m
14 Portsmouth.....................£34.8m
15 Blackburn Rovers...............£34.4m
16 Sunderland.....................£33.2m
17 Hull City......................£32.5m

These 10 clubs have either:

a. Received the misfortune of missing out on playing in the UEFA Leagues
b. The privilege of remaining in the Premier League
c. Been fortunate not to be relegated to the less lucrative Division One
because - as QPR, Crystal Palace and Nottingham Forest show - once you’re
out, it’s hard to get back into top flight football since the formation of
the Premier League.
d. All of the above, particularly when looking at the fate of the following
three teams.

Here's the unfortunate ones who didn't make it:

18 Newcastle United................£36.3m
19 Middlesbrough...................£30.9m
20 West Bromwich Albion............£31.1m

These three were relegated to Football League Championship – i.e. Division One – but at least got a financial sweetener from the broadcast payments to comfort the blow.

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Congratulations to former professional footballer and Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker and model Danielle Bux on their marriage in Ravello, Italy.

I wish both the bride and groom everlasting happiness.

To get more information, click onto this BBC link: news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment/8235433.stm

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Further evidence of the success the Premier League provides can be found in Ashley Cole signing a new four-year deal at Chelsea, with increased wages.

Although many others weren’t happy at the way he engineered his move from Arsenal, like fellow teammate and former Arsenal player Nicolas Anelka – who was the highest scorer during last season, scoring 19 goals, not Cristiano Ronaldo – he’s clearly very happy at Stamford Bridge.

For more information, I found this link from The Guardian newspaper to be very effective, which also talks about current players in his former club signing contracts: www.guardian.co.uk/football/2009/sep/02/ashley-cole-chelsea-contract1

Don’t forget to visit my other internet site: www.andriagreaves.com

Until next time, peace.

Andria

X

Well done Wolves!

2009-08-29T13:22:00.000-07:00

Although I’m not a Rugby fan, the two teams that attended Wembley Stadium today for the Challenge Cup Final, the other team being Huddersfield, were well behaved.

There was no segregation of fans, which has to be done regarding soccer.

In all, it was a carnival atmosphere, with some fans dressed as convicts, other men wearing flowery pink dresses.

When Wolves picked up the cup, many supporters of the losing team clapped their hands.

It’s the first time since 1974 that Warrington has won the Cup, so congratulations all round to them.

Some of their fans decided to stay in Wembley, visiting The Greyhound pub that’s approximately 100 yards away from the Stadium.

It was nice, seeing their fans - grown men, women and their children, sitting on the green opposite the pub, enjoying the rest of the warm, sunny weather, which was crowned by a fabulous result.

As I said to some of their fans leaving the Stadium, congratulations on the result and I hope to see some of you again next year.

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Chelsea is on top of the league!

The 3-0 result is sure to help show they are determined to break the lock Manchester United has on winning the Premiership league.

As for newly promoted Burnley, please learn from the mistakes of recently regulated out of top-flight football West Bromwich Albion (WBA); you can’t stay in the Premier league with First Division players.

I know that’s ruthless to say but that’s the way it is – this explains why Stoke City and Hull City, the other clubs who were promoted with WBA to the 2008-09 Premier League, are still in the Premiership League.

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Manchester United only just got victory today against Arsenal, thanks to Abou Diaby’s own goal.

United only just got their victory, which does bring forward the belief whether the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo has weakened this team.

Only time will tell.

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Speaking of Arsenal, it’s not surprising that UEFA has stepped in to the whole issue regarding Eduardo’s behaviour Wednesday evening.

The Euro football chiefs have charged the striker with deceiving the referee by diving to win a penalty against Celtic, in the Champions League qualifier.

Again, I think this is a case of where, as I stated regarding Drogba’s outburst during last season’s Chelsea UEFA match against Barcelona, of letting the linesman have as much say as the main referee when looking at such issues.

I must admit to being surprised by Eduardo’s actions on Wednesday, as I remember the nasty left ankle dislocation he received in February 2008 that threatened his career-playing future.

For most people, it’s a defining moment where you look at what’s important in life and it usually includes sportsmanship.

Hopefully, both Eduardo and his manager, Arséne Wenger, will come to realise this in the coming months.

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I watched Big Ron – as I still call him – doing Celebrity Wife Swap a few weeks ago with Olympic gold medal winner Tessa Sanderson.

I remember this man as the showy-with-clout manager of Manchester United, who put the glam into a club that was then synonymous with supporters wearing brown cloth caps and long matching coats – i.e., dowdy.

Along with a team that had a successful streak in the 1980’s, Ron Atkinson was a man who invented the word bling and made Manchester United a trendy team to follow, before he was removed to make way for a then unpeeraged unknown-to-mainstream-English-football manager, called Alex Ferguson.

Big Ron was responsible for introducing black football players on a mainstream scale to English football. This was particularly the case when he managed WBA, before becoming a match commentator.

So rather than ponder on the foolish remarks he said about Marcel Desailly in 2004, I hope he gets further involved in the academy in Newham, London, that Ms Sanderson is helping to run in preparation for the 2012 Olympics.

Mr Atkinson has an amazing talent, which clearly showed when he was being a manager of a local Newham football team during the swap.

He is a man you can believe in; that quality is needed in a football manager.

I also saw the home – well let’s face it, mansion – he lives in with his wife.

It just goes to show, like Kevin Keegan, there has always been some football professionals who had their financial heads screwed on before the arrival of the Premiership league in 1991.

I for one hope Celebrity Wife Swap is not the last we see or hear from Big Ron.

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That leads me to what I mentioned during my last blog about recommending books to read regarding sport.

For Father’s Day this year, I brought: Beyond A Boundary, by CLR James.

My mum isn’t a cricket lover but decided to take this book with her to the hairdressers, as she usually spends all day at the salon and found this book good to read and realised why certain cricket matches are called a Test.

I decided to read it and realised why this man was such an inspirational figure for independence and self-rule during his lifetime.

I wrote a biography piece about him for Pride magazine, featured in February 2006 – the feedback the office received about it was fantastic and was responsible for that edition being a sell-out.

The e-mails and phone calls to the then editor praising this article were daily and continued for the whole month.

My only regret was seeing the sub-editors take my name out. My thanks go to those who liked reading it – it took me a whole week to finally produce that article, such was the extent of work and essays that Cyril Lionel Robert James produced.

Another book I’d highly recommend is Paul Gascoigne’s autobiography, Gazza: My Story, with Hunter Davies, first published in 2004.

It’s a truly warming book that made me laugh, cry, get annoyed with Mr Gascoigne and generally feel his pain. It’s a warts and all revelation about him; a genius midfielder who sadly never achieved his full potential during his playing days.

I so wish that Sir Alex Ferguson had signed him from Lazio.

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I’m now being kicked off the computer I’m typing this on, so I’m signing off now!

Please don’t hesitate to visit my other internet site: www.andriagreaves.com

Until next time.

Light and Peace

Andria

X

West Ham Vs Millwall: the truth

2009-08-26T06:51:00.000-07:00

Hi to one and all

I realise I haven’t written for some time and I do accept full responsibility for this.

Nevertheless, I’m happy to inform you about my experiences, both yesterday as a football steward at West Ham vs Millwall and on other issues.

I can say the real West Ham fans wouldn’t of been involved in the hooliganism we’ve seen regarding Tuesday’s match – during the many times I’ve worked at this club, I’ve been treated very well by both fans and staff.

But since this was a Football Association - FA - Carling Cup match, it was decided that a certain amount of tickets had to be available to the public that otherwise wouldn’t attend Upton Park (home of West Ham football club).

Generally, this is a good thing as it gives everyone the opportunity to see a premiership team live and keeps the romance of what the FA means – Millwall and West Ham haven’t meet each other in years, since The Lions were demoted out of top flight football in 1990.

Furthermore, Millwall and West Ham are well known bitter rivals, which clearly didn’t help.

Unfortunately it also gives troublemakers the chance to take advantage of the good nature of the FA and that’s what happened yesterday evening.

It was truly a good match, with Millwall getting a well deserved in the first half. Many West Ham fans clapped when they scored. Then West Ham equalised in the dying minutes of the second half, which is when the first pitch invasion happened.

It was at a weak point of the pitch, where football fans and the camera people share the same part, near the left-hand corner of the Bobby Moore stand. The real West Ham fans were booing the invaders, who got the message and came off with little fuss within five minutes.

But when extra time was over – thank goodness it didn’t go to penalties – with West Ham winning the match 3-1, that’s when the central part of the Dr Martens Stand gave way to individuals running on the pitch.

It wasn’t easy to get them off and it’s a shame for West Ham they will be receiving fines for yesterday’s commotion, as the only thing they can do is ban the people who caused the trouble.

This isn’t going to be affective, as most of those individuals who behaved badly wouldn’t come to a West Ham match anyway, so again, the club suffers.

Millwall has an established reputation of having the most violent supporters in British football.

At the match, I must give credit to the Millwall supporters who – despite the strong police and steward attendance at the match, were well behaved during the game.

I can also empathise with the frustration of the disabled supporters at the end of the game. They couldn’t leave the building as the lifts had been suspended, a safety precaution at any venue when trouble emerges, which meant they had to stay in the building until the police said it was safe for the elevators to be re-enabled.

One disabled supporter had two of his sons waiting in the car park, which by now was being heavily monitored, for fear of any further acts of violence.

Indeed it was outside the match that further violence flared up – I can still vividly remember walking up to Upton Park underground station at night, seeing ambulance workers placing people inside their vehicles regarding head, chest and arm injuries.

Despite being past 11pm, violent blood shedding was clearly visible on the pavements, with police having to cauldron off open spaces.

I also remember having no choice but walking on broken glass for the last 100 metres in getting to the station, such was the aftermath of the violence.

English clubs have worked so hard in eradicating hooliganism and it’s clearly a battle the police and football stewards must win – families, disabled people and individuals of colour have as much right to attend these events. Hooliganism is the opposite of this.

Right now, I feel for the safety officer and deputy safety office, Mr Ron Pearce and Mr Leon Blackburn respectively, who will no doubt have to compile a report on what happened. These two men have a lot of responsibility heaped on their shoulders, which they can’t sort out by themselves, if certain people are hell bent on violence.

More security is definitely needed, from football stewards to police – both had increased the usual amount of people to attend this match but sadly the people they had on that day was not enough.

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I’m not surprised that Jose Mourinho is once again in hot water, over his remarks that Inter Milan player Sulley Muntari should not be fasting during Ramadan.

All Muslims abstain from eating or drinking during this period during the daytime, that’s something Mourinho would have known about when deciding to play Muntari on Sunday’s draw against Bari.

A person’s religion is a part of their identity in this world and helps to signify meaning to their life.

Furthermore, it’s only for one month – I’m sure Mr Muntari wants to win games like Mr Mourinho, so I can’t help but feel Jose, by criticising one of his own players in such a public way, is scoring an own goal.

Isn’t it for the opposition to be undermining his players?

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Not relating to football, but I’m saddened to hear about the recent death of Senator Edward Kennedy.

He was a force to contend with and clearly played a strong role in getting Barack Obama into the White House.

With the recent death of his sister Eunice Kennedy Shriver, mother of top-rated journalist and first lady of Florida Maria Shriver – who happens to be married to Arnold Schwarzenegger, it’s only Jean Kennedy Smith that’s now alive of the original Kennedy clan who are forever enshrined as America’s Royal Family.

Although I understand some were unhappy in his involvement in the ‘troubles’ in Northern Ireland, I’m relived for him that he no longer has to suffer from the brain cancer which robbed him of his life.

I’m also relieved the ‘troubles’ in Northern Ireland are over – walking in Wembley yesterday, I went past the Army Careers office that was a target in 1994 – one man lost his life due to an IRA bomb, so again, I’m glad those days are a thing of the past.

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All of this means I don’t have the chance to talk about the sport books I’d highly recommend to read!

But the week is young, so I intend to update this log soon.

After yesterday’s commotion – I didn’t get home until minutes past one in the morning, I’ll be glad to watch (not attend) the Arsenal Vs Celtic match.

Until then, bye!

Light and Peace

Andria

PS, don’t forget to visit my other site (unfortunately, I can't put a link on it, for some unknown reason): www.andriagreaves.com

Only the Welsh rain can save the England Cricket team

2009-07-12T07:46:00.000-07:00

Australia’s batsmen got a mammoth 674 for six until rain cut short a day of misery for England yesterday.

One poster, by an Australian supporter, simply said: “Only cowards pray for rain.”

Either way, Australia’s batting display is sure to result in one change in England’s attack for the second test at Lord’s this Thursday.

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This leads me to the dismay I’m seeing of England’s Women cricketers.

Despite being double world champions, it seems they are in danger of following their male counterparts.

On the first day of their Ashes Test at New Road, Worcester, they were reduced to 28 for five.

What’s going on? Sort it out ladies!

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Liverpool FC have dug their heels in by rejecting an offer for Fernando Torres.

As they are still aiming to break the domination of Manchester United, Liverpool have turned down a rumoured £60m bid for the Spanish striker, by an English football club that’s NOT Manchester City.

Their manager Rafa Benitez stated: “It was a proper offer, a big one but we said no and he wanted to stay here.”

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Talking of which, I’m glad to see defender Glen Johnson has made a £17m move to join Mr Torres and Mr Benitez at Liverpool.

He had a tough time of it under Jose Mourinho at Chelsea and had to join Portsmouth in 2007 to resurrect his career.

Since Fabio Capello brought him back into the England first team, Johnson’s been very effective at right back.

It’s a true test of his character and inner strength that despite having the opportunity to do so, he says he has no bitterness towards his former manager, saying: “I don’t see the point in bearing grudges.”

Welcome back to the big four Johnson and I hope all works out for you at the Kop.

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I watched the dawning of a new era for UK track and field as 23 year-old sprint star Simeon Williamson won the men’s 100m at the national championships yesterday at the Alexander Stadium, Birmingham.

Dwayne Chambers, 32, huffed and puffed but was blown away by the elegance of Mr Williamson who, despite being slow off the blocks and wearing a necklace, was determined and comfortable with his win

Two other athletes who show promise for Britain in 2012 are Lawrence Clarke, 19, whose skill in the men’s 110m reminds me of Colin Jackson and Jodie Williams, 15, who is likely to win another medal in today’s 200m final.

In other words, we’re getting there!

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The Tour De France is still by far the most challenging as well as being the grand-daddy of all the cycling tournaments.

But the argument between Lance Armstrong, who bravely defeated cancer a few years ago, and Alberto Contador seems to be overshadowing this great event.

The power struggle between these two men – who are part of the same team – reminds me of the issues that Lewis Hamilton had with his former team-mate Fernando Alonso.

Looking at the various mountain climbs and sprints awaiting the cyclists at today’s Stage 9 in south-west France, their won’t me much opportunity for anyone to argue!

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I was looking at the sports magazine The Red Bulletin when I read the Me And My Body section, with Davin Hester.

I could symphonise with him about having a weakness for fast food and being a cookie monster.

I too have a craving for such products, despite having diabetes running in my family – I assure you, I haven’t got diabetes but I know if I don’t cut back, there’s a strong possibility I will, so no chocolate for me today!

Check out the full interview – for me it was a pleasure to read - which also explains how much dedication professional sports men and women have, which shows why they excell, at:
www.redbulletin.com/tags/meandmy/en

Also, don’t forget to check out my other internet address: www.andriagreaves.com

Until next time, peace.

Andria

X

PLEASE SEE THE FILM BRÜNO

2009-07-11T14:04:00.000-07:00

I saw it yesterday and feel it deserves the five out of five score by the film critics of the Daily Mirror newspaper.

As for the audience who was watching it at the same time as me - the Vue Cinema in Harrow was full – the one unsettling moment was seeing two Muslim men getting annoyed at Brüno’s interview with a Hamas leader.

They shouted obscenities at the character, a fictional gay Austrian fashion reporter portrayed by English comedian Sacha Baron Cohen, before storming off.

At first, I thought they were extras for the film!

I was warned about the talking penis scene, which is why I’m not surprised this film got an 18 certificate in the UK but it was still unexpected.

So long as you remember that Brüno (who claims to be 19) like Borat and Ali G isn’t real, you’re sure to have a good time watching this film.

The scene of seeing Brüno running away from orthodox Jews – he’s wearing a funky version of their traditional suit - is hilarious.

The same goes for him seeing an American preacher who claims to heal homosexuality.

As for the OJ baby pictures - displayed to a largly African American audience, his visit to a Swingers party and his interaction with some Deep South hunters, well I’m surprised that Brüno manages to leave America in one piece!

Just when you think Brüno can’t surprise you any further, something else comes along that’s just as funny and bemusing as the last act – watch out for the new man on the block, Straight Dave.

This is the official trailer for the film: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fAGpmNb2xfQ

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The pictures below, feel free to look at them, the first two include my visit to the Animal Flower Cave in St Lucy, Barbados.

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Until tomorrow, Boa Noite – that’s goodnight in Portuguese, the language I'm now trying to learn.

Don’t forget to view my other internet address: www.andriagreaves.com

Light and Peace

Andria

X

Hey you

2009-07-06T08:42:00.000-07:00

That 4-0 thrashing still hurts!

Yes I’m referring to the Germany team wining the UEFA Under 21 Football Championship on Monday 29th June

Congratulations to Germany, who outclassed England - they looked stodgy, stiff and simply not with it, compared the flexible, reliable and determined Germans.

Their player Sandro Wagner gave a brilliant display that night – definitely a man to keep an eye on when he graduates to full maturity.

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Although it’s already been said in many ways, I am genuinely sorry about the death of Michael Jackson.

To die so young – at 50, MJ certainly wasn’t an old man – is hurtful enough.

But to pass away when he was on the cusp of getting out of debt and getting back on stage, his second home, with sell-out shows at the O2 in London (he probably would of issued more dates, such was the demand) is just as sad.

I’ve seen the pictures of him practising, with the words THIS IS IT behind him.

So I was understandably annoyed to see that one UK based so-called ethnic magazine decided to stick with its game plan of stating how ‘wonderful’ it will be to see MJ performing in London again this month and featured an unknown artist on the front of its magazine.

This is a case of poor editorial and management decision-making, especially since the passing of the King of Pop was announced in good time for this publication to of made appropriate changes for this month’s edition.

No doubt they will come up with a ‘tribute’ edition of MJ for next month – i.e. a good 31 days too late.

A strong word of advice to them and any other ethnic publication: there is no point in playing the race card, especially against other black performers or politicians refusing to speak to you, if you can’t be bothered to get your own act together!

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It seems that the Real Madrid revolution is set to continue, with the purchase of French striker Karim Benzema from the team Lyon for a fee believed to be £30 million.

After the purchase of Kaka and Cristiano Ronaldo, it shouldn’t be of any surprise Real would make a play for this promising forward.

It seems that Manchester United are loosing their touch, as we know that’s the second top player in months they have lost to the glamorous Real Madrid – they too wanted to sign Benzema.

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Ironically, I was looking at a past copy of the Metro newspaper, dated 15th May, where Ronaldo was categorically stating he is happy at Manchester United and has no intention of leaving during the summer.

Well, the pundits have been proven to be right in saying that Real would make their move again after last year’s will-he-or-won’t-he fiasco.

I’d just like to say thank you Cristiano for displaying for Manchester United why you are the top-rated footballer you are, especially against FC Porto earlier this year.

Whatever you may personally think of him – player or over-pampered prima donna – this is one man who knows how to create and score goals, while remembering the team he plays in must come first.

I genuinely wish all the best for Ronaldo and hope he continues to do well in his life, both on and off the pitch, as balance in life is so important.

His former manager also wishes him no ill-will as Sir Alex recently had a quiet farewell dinner with him in Cheshire, Manchester.

His unveiling at the Bernabeu drew in more people than Manchester's Old Trafford could ever hold.

If you still dislike what Ronaldo’s done, then ask yourself this question; if an organisation wanted you so much, they will pay £80 million for you and give you an astronomical wage of £200,000.00 a week, would you turn that down?

I thought so!

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This leads me onto the current problems I can see with Manchester United.

Yes, they won the league, but now they haven’t got Ronaldo, a forward who could win games from nowhere, it seems that despite having £80 million in the bank, they can’t get anyone.

After this season’s defeat by Liverpool – who could forget that 1-4 drumming in the Premier league and the humiliating 2-0 defeat by Barcelona in the UEFA finals – it’s clear that the central midfield is weak and that’s not being helped by the uncertainty surrounding Owen Hargreaves – nobody knows whether this man will play again.

Dimitar Berbatov has had sparingly good matches this season, while Giggs and Scholes are clearly at the stage where they will want to retire and coach the under 18’s.

Carlos Tevez - who accuses Mr Berbatov of forcing him out of United - looks set to join derby rivals Manchester City.

The purchase of Michael Owen, a well-respected but out-of-favour with the England team manager was a shrewd move, which clearly replaces Ronaldo, but it’s yet to be seen whether he’ll be happy playing alongside Wayne Rooney, who along with Theo Walcott, have pushed him out of the national squad.

Then again, something tells me that a striker with his ability wasn’t going to be happy playing in the first division – better known as Division Two to those of you who remember watching The Saint and Greavise (no relation to moi) on (now titled) ITV1.

Furthermore, being a former Kop player, something tells me the Mancurians and their supporters are going to be divided about welcoming Owen.

Unless these issues are dealt with soon, come next season, it’s unlikely that Manchester United will be the winners of the Premier League.

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Another reason for putting my reservations across about Manchester United retaining the title next season is due to the present Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti confirming that John Terry will remain Chelsea captain “forever” and that the “Chelsea-Terry story will continue”.

Blues fans will be happy with this statement of intent from the Chelsea manager, a clear signal that he sees Terry, who has been with The Blues for 11 seasons, as a major force in their title bid – as well as fending off the constant interest from Manchester City.

But this does signal a clear push for the title, especially since the purchase of Russian midfielder Yuri Zhirkov, who usually plays as an attacking left-winger and in leftwing, which is clearly adding a platinum frame to this team.

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Congratulations to Swiss pro Roger Federer on gaining his record 15th Grand Slam win at Wimbledon.

He surpassed Pete Sampras’s total of 14 major titles.

But defeating Andy Roddick was no easy feat and he made Federer work for every point in five sets during Sunday’s final.

I saw how actor Russell Crowe, Sir Alex Ferguson and Mr Sampras himself watched seeing history being made.

I’m not surprised about the latter two being present as being sportsmen themselves, they can understand the focus, drive and determination – under the watchful gaze of millions – of these two men, as well as the pressure surrounding them.

Looking at today’s technology and how it keeps getting better year by year, it’s only a matter of time before Mr Federer’s record is broken, so my advice to him is enjoy it while you can.

Then again, Roger could make it Sweet 16!

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As for the women’s tournament, well it wasn’t a surprise that a Williams sister won.

Despite not getting the top seed ranking, once again, both Venus and Serena – who won the female section – showed us why they are dominating the women’s role of tennis.

Their power, strength, agility and speed are second to none.

Needless to say, they both went on to win the women’s double too.

My heartfelt congratulations to both the Williams sisters.

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Now for The Ashes.

Considering only two teams can play, it shouldn’t surprise some that only cricket-obsessed fans really take an interest in this.

But it would be nice to have it confirmed what The Ashes urn contains, rather than speculated!

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Nevertheless, if you don’t understand cricket, then please read the book Beyond A Boundary by CLR James.

My mum, despite being from Barbados – just like my dad – didn’t know a hoot about the game until reading this book.

I brought it for my dad as a Father’s Day present but considering my mum takes all day to get her hair done, she decided to take this book along with her - she enjoyed reading it too!

It’s long been accepted this is one of the best sporting books ever written and clearly shows the author’s dedication to cricket.

In other words, well worth a read!

I did a biography on him for the history section of a monthly magazine - Cyril Lionel Robert James was a great thinker. His work, like MJ, lives on after his death.

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I was at the Southbank a few weeks ago, when I stumbled on the Simple Acts campaign by the Refugee Council.

It’s all very well dismissing such organisations as do-gooders but then I remembered a case of Ahmed, a Somalian in his mid twenties who could pass as Jamaican.

He was self-employed as a plaster and had two men working for him, when he was approached in a pub after 6pm to be a drug seller by two Caucasian men.

He said no and thought that would be the end of it but after 10pm that night he answered a knock on his door and realised the same men had followed him home.

He was bundled into a van by the same men – who had someone else as a driver, taken to a council estate that still had the old fashioned heaters that provided fuel for the whole block, rather than individually, like it is now for many council buildings in London.

He was tied down to the heater which started to burn his skin. In order to free himself, he had to break the pipe that was tying him down to the heater.

But he was left with a choice between the devil and the deep blue sea as by breaking the shaft, all the piping-hot water in the radiator painfully melt his skin to leave him with 80% second to third-degree damage.

But he refuses to be downbeat. He went back to Somalia to get himself a wife, stating that no woman in England would want him because of his disfigurement – he wears a prosthetic right hand – learnt how to write with his left hand and is now back working as a bus driver.

The men who kidnapped, tortured him and tied him down to that radiator have not been caught but as Ahmed said to me: “They will get their comeuppance, so I don’t let it bother me.”

He was visiting Inquilab Housing Association as his wife was pregnant with their first child and just wanted help in fixing up his mortgage in Acton, north London, as he lost his business while in hospital, recovering from his wounds.

So I was happy to sign up for Option 3: Learn To Say A Few Things In A New Language for Refugee Week, which is just as well as I’m determined to sign up for a language course in Portuguese.

I want to do this as Brazil is still by far the Mecca for football talent, so speaking a few words in their language will help to break the ice.

Plus there’s a strong Portuguese community in Harlesden, so I’m sure that I’ll get a lot of practice.

Here are a few pictures of last year’s Celebrating Sanctuary event (displayed above) also held at the same venue as this year’s festival.

One of them includes the lead singer of indie band the Noisettes – their lead singer, Shingai Shoniwa (first name pronounced Shing-eee) is of Zimbabwean parentage.

The pictures were taken by Nana Varveropoulou.

To find out more, visit their internet site: www.simpleacts.org.uk

Please don’t forget to visit my other internet site: www.andriagreaves.com

Peace

Andria

CONGRATULATIONS TO BARCELONA FC

2009-05-28T09:49:00.000-07:00

They are worthy champions!

As for Manchester United, they seemed to be in the match for a mere ten minutes, with Ronaldo making some good attempts before Samuel Eto’o goal and Cristiano’s Catalan nemesis Lionel Messi scored in each half, which put the game out of Man U’s reach.

I realised it was going to be a tough match, after seeing how Barcelona scored a last-minute goal against Chelsea a few weeks ago.

Unusual for Manchester United, they were simply outplayed and outclassed.

My brother Jeffrey Greaves was happy with the result as it was his birthday yesterday and he’s a Liverpool fan.

Seeing his bitter rivals get soundly beaten was his icing on the cake!

Credit is due to Barcelona who, as they did at Stamford Bridge against The Blues, played with a mixture of skill, passion and ability – this shined through again at Rome yesterday.

They were outstanding and deserved to be winners of the Champions League.

Being a British citizen, I couldn’t help but feel nauseated when the final whistle blew and I didn’t stay at the McQuian’s pub in Kenton to watch Barcelona lift the Cup – that would have been too much for me (thank goodness I wasn’t on reporting duty).

So after finishing the rest of my drink, I slipped out the pub, just like most of the MUFC supporters, including my (female) mate Jasjot, who’s on the international side of the broadcast journalism course, which also leads to a Masters of the Arts (MA).

The other half, who clearly supported Barcelona, stayed on to enjoy their success. I’m glad there was no violence in the pub at all, with both sets of fans appreciating each other’s side - I'm glad to say that the fans of both teams were sitting side by side.

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I was a football steward at the West Ham home match against Middlesborough on Saturday 23 May.

As you could expect, tensions were high as it was known that the visiting team were facing regulation to the First Division – better known as the original Division Two to many.

Before the Premier league was formed, it was well known that some teams, like Sheffield Wednesday and Crystal Palace, would bounce between the two divisions.

But now, the standards needed to be and remain in the Premier league is so high, it’s going to be hard for any team to stay if they don’t have players, marketing and a strategy to boot.

It didn’t help that when West Ham won the match 2-0 their fans taunted the opposing team and their fan base by singing “Cheerio” to them!

Nevertheless I was surprised that Newcastle are now going down with Middlesborough, as I thought they'd survive after Man U beat Hull earlier that day. So Sunderland live to fight another day!

As for West Bromwich Albion (WBA), I think that by Christmas 2008, their form and success rate was so poor; nobody realistically expected them to remain in the Premier League at the end of this season.

All the best for Wolverhampton Wanderers – better known as Wolves - and Birmingham City.

A big hello to Burnley, who haven’t been in the top flight since the 1970s.

These are the new teams joining the big league but unless they start spending that hard earned extra cash on new – meaning Premier league standard - signings, then like WBA, they will go straight back down to Division One next year.

As constant Premier league wannabe team Queens Park Rangers found to their cost, who were exiled after selling Les Ferdinand to, ironically Newcastle in 1995, once you’re out – they were relegated the following year - it’s hard to get back!

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Former professional footballer Mario Celaire has confessed to murdering his ex-girlfriend seven years after originally being cleared of her murder and manslaughter at the Old Bailey.

Mario Celaire, now 31, also faces life after admitting to attempting to murder his ex-lover Kara Hoyte, 19.

The same court heard how the ex-Maidstone United defender hit Cassandra, 19, continiously over the head at her mum’s home in Norbury, South London, in 2001.

She choked on her own vomit while unconscious, which is how she died.

He would have got away with it, as he was originally acquitted of her murder in 2002, if it weren’t for the change of the double jeopardy ruling which provided the opportunity of former girlfriend Kara to give evidence against Celaire this month, after her beat her with a hammer in 2007 after she, like Cassandra, left him.

It was thanks to Mario cockily admitting to killing Cassandra to Ms Hoyte that Celaire eventually confessed to both crimes.

He will be sentenced on July 3.

Many complain that you don’t see ethnic WAGs but looking at the tragedy of what Celaire did to these two beautiful black women, well this just shows the importance of simply finding a good person to settle down with, regardless of race.

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Speaking of which, I read Harry Redknapp’s recent attack on the WAG culture.

He talks about how much it’s changed for players to find a good partner and stay out of trouble.

But to look on the flip side, nobody has forced a premier league footballer to date, say serial WAG, Danielle Lloyd.

And looking at the state Tottenham Hotspur captain and defender Ledley King was in when he was arrested outside a London nightclub for alleged racially aggravated assault earlier this month, as well as the problems Harry's nephew Frank Lampard is having regarding his private life, perhaps it’s not surprising that he wanted to get a few things off his chest.

I for one was touched by the refreshing honesty displayed by Mr Redknapp in the interview, which also marked a turning point; gone are the days where football managers just dealt with getting the right players, the right results and arguing with the club chairman over spending.

Read it for yourself, in the Telegraph newspaper edition: www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/celebritynews/5322684/Harry-Redknapp-criticises-footballs-WAG-culture.html

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I’m glad to see that women’s football is finally starting to get the recognition it deserves in the newspaper back pages.

So congratulations to the Arsenal Ladies Football Team for winning the FA’s Women’s Premier League on Sunday 10 May.

I’ve yet to see the men’s team - even when they had legendary striker Ian Wright around - wining 11 trophies in four years, which is exactly what the lady’s team has done!

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So now the season’s over, it’s time to look at who’s staying and who’s going, either from the Premiership league or moving to another club, within the premiership.

But considering I’ve got more stuff to hand in – i.e. university deadlines, I’ll have to say bye for now, as that will be for another blog entry.

Don’t forget to visit my other internet site: http://www.andriagreaves.com/

But if you want to leave a comment for me, it will have to be on this site!

Until next time

Light and Peace

Andria

X

Akon’s Coming Home!

2009-05-12T11:08:00.000-07:00

I’ve genuinely been so busy with deadlines at the University of Westminster, I’ve side-lined quite a few things in my life of late.

I truly apologise.

The past week in football has been crazy!

I for one am not surprised by the behaviour of Chelsea’s Didier Drogba against the referee during the Champions League semi-final.

I saw how the Ivory Coast captain and other Chelsea players chased after Norwegian referee Tom Henning Ovrebo, particularly after the final whistle.

I also saw, or rather laughed, at Drogba’s behaviour – with eyes bulging - towards a TV camera, which not surprisingly was beamed to millions of homes across the globe.

I also read with bemusement at how Stan The Man, a former professional footballer who was a part of the Spice Boys - sorry Liverpool FC team in the 1990s – say that Drogba should be punished for his behaviour after Chelsea’s dramatic exit.

Looking at Mr Collymore’s own chequered football career, in which he has proven himself to be a nearly man and was left alone to celebrate scoring a goal by his Nottingham Forest team-mates, I can’t help but feel he’s someone who, despite receiving lots of money, inevitably remains an underachiever.

I’m sure I’m not alone in saying that people living in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones!

Nevertheless, considering that Barcelona were down to ten men, I feel it’s only fair to say congratulations to this Catalan-based team for getting into the final.

Unfortunately, the game was soiled by the way it was run. There should have been at least three penalties for Chelsea.

The sending off, that left Barcelona with ten men on the pitch, should not have been allowed.

Barcelona got their last minute goal through sheer determination and passion. They did deserve it, particularly as it was in the dying minutes of extra time.

But I feel this match shows the way football is refereed needs to be updated.

Football, or soccer as it’s called in the United States, is run on rules and regulations that are as old as the game itself.

Footballers now are much faster, professional and dedicated to this magnificent sport, yet the way its run is still based on regulations made centuries ago.

The rules regarding the way such matches are refereed must change with it.

Having a camera to check every angle will be costly, especially for the smaller clubs, so why not let the guardsmen have more of a say when it comes to all football games?

Especially since they get to see the match from an angle the main referee doesn’t and in some cases can’t.

The reason why I don’t attack Drogba, instead I applaud him, is simply because football is a reactionary sport.

It was only when Eric Cantona delivered a kung-fu style attack on a ‘supporter’ for yelling racist abuse at him, that football made a real effort to clear up this cancer that was ignored for a long time.

Black football players before Mr Cantona had to put up with monkey chants every time they got the ball and even had bananas thrown at them on the pitch.

Yet it’s only when Eric gave a public reaction towards racism that the rest of the football world finally woke up to the fact that prejudice must not be tolerated, either in or outside the pitch.

The same goes for crowd safety. It was only when Hillsborough happened that people finally realised the importance of spectator guidelines for modern-day football.

So let us not be critical of Drogba, instead, lets accept this situation to highlight what is wrong with football, to make a change for a better future.

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I also, like the rest of the football world, saw the behaviour of Cristiano Ronaldo when he was substituted for Wayne Rooney during the Manchester derby on Sunday.

It seems that the hairdryer treatment of boss Sir Alex Ferguson is on the cards for him, as although he did have a good match, surely even Cristiano could realise that his Gaffer simply wanted to rest him for future matches.

Especially since Ronaldo’s ability to score from nowhere will be needed in Rome, against the football giants Barcelona, which is only a handful of days away.

As they showed against Chelsea FC, this is a team you under-estimate at your own peril!

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Sticking to Manchester United, the situation with Carlos Tevez is something he has good reason to sulk about, which he demonstrated after scoring a goal on Sunday, then cupped his hands to his ears to make a point.

As he’s been on loan for two years, Manchester United cannot renew his contract for another loan spell.

Either they have to sign Tevez or let him go.

He’s been playing so well, but ManU already have Berbatov, Rooney and – with exception to the Real Madrid rumours – Ronaldo.

Then there’s the current economic climate. The people behind Tevez are said to be asking for £26million.

Manchester United, despite their success, is known to be careful with the cash.

They will always go for a cheaper price, so it seems that Carlos may well be off to Liverpool or derby rivals Manchester City instead.

Either way, Tevez is a good professional; he respects the shirt of United as he’s relatively kept his nose clean both on and off the pitch, so I genuinely hope he gets a good outcome, wherever he plays next season.

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This brings me back to why I mentioned rapper Akon in my opening headline.

The star is co-ordinating the football World Cup anthem and opening celebrations for South Africa.

The singer has made it clear he won’t be asking his friend David Beckham for advice, saying: “I know David, he’s my man. But I’m not asking for his advice. Footballers should stick to football.”

Considering some of the dog howlers that became UK football anthems, I couldn’t agree more!

The only one worth remembering was Eat My Goal by Collapsed Lung.

Even then, that tune wasn’t officially adopted by the England team during its Euro 96 campaign. US company Coca-cola picked up on it instead.

Funny that, as Three Lions, by Baddiel and Skinner with the Lightening Seeds, was accepted by the England football team and it was adopted by the winners Germany.

They also sang it when they paraded the prized silverware to the Deutschland people.

My German mate Ijeoma (Nigerian parents) says this tune is still played on German radio stations.

Football came home alright, just not to England!

Please don’t hesitate to view my other internet site: www.andriagreaves.com

Peace

Andria

X

I’VE SEEN ARSENE WENGER’S DANCE BEFORE!

2009-04-16T12:25:00.000-07:00

It was by the contestant Susan on Britain’s Got Talent!

When he joined in the celebrations led by Arsenal strikers Theo Walcott and Emmanuel Adebayor, with a polished penalty by Robin van Persie, each scoring a goal against Villarreal yesterday, the rest of the punters at the pub joined in – even if they, like Wenger, had two left feet!

His performance, along with the rest of the Arsenal team, reminded me of the Will Smith video Getting Jiggy With It - without its slickness!

Like the Arsenal manager, the crowd in the pub simply didn’t care about the style of their dancing, as the result has put this magnificent team in the next stage of the Champions League.

See the Will Smith video I've mentioned for yourself:

www.youtube.com/watch?v=BIduOvEoVeQ

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I decided to go to Harlesden, instead of Wembley, to watch Arsenal and Manchester United play.

I’m glad to say I made the right decision, as two public houses were showing both matches - that were right next to each other!

Furthermore, Harlesden, yes in the north-west ten area of London, has a strong Portuguese community, who quickly corrected me that Porto is in northern Portugal – sorry for my earlier mistake of saying it was in the mid-west.

I kept running in between pubs before settling for the one that showed the Man U game, simply because the atmosphere in that one was electric!

You see, the Portuguese crowd had divided loyalties; such is the case when the country – or a team – from England, is playing against another team or national side, from your mother or father country.

For instance, a few years ago, the England football team played against Cameroon in the World Cup.

It was hard for many individuals of West African descent to decide which team to support.

The same goes for cricket.

When England is playing against the West Indies, many of Caribbean origin are also torn, as to who to support.

So when Man U played against Porto yesterday, loyalties in the Portuguese camp, were bound to be tested.

When the ball was passed to Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani, who came on as a substitute for Dimitar Berbatov – who on occasions did drift out of the game – the Portuguese punters, who dominated one pub, either cheered or booed these two footballers.

When Mr Ronaldo scored for United in the sixth minute – which was from under 40 yards and at a speed of more than 64 miles per hour – there were both cries of joy and laughter from some as well as yells of shame and Judas from others for Cristiano, who displayed why he’s the Fifa World Player of the Year.

Man U certainly seemed sure of themselves in defence, whereas Porto FC, despite their strong reputation as a formidable team, seemed to lack self-belief on this crucial evening.

So congratulations to both victors, Arsenal and Manchester United, on their success; who will probably face each other in the next leg – the semi-finals - of the UEFA Champions League

The managers of these two fine English clubs have crossed verbal and mental swords before, so it will be just as thrilling to see which club goes onto the final.

Sir Alex Ferguson for Man U will hope it’s onwards and upwards for his team but if they are playing against Arsenal, Wenger will definitely have something to say about that!

Please don’t hesitate to visit my other internet site: www.andriagreaves.com

PEACE

Andria

X

It’s amazing – part I

2009-04-15T11:47:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Chelsea on coming back from 2-nil down before half-time against Liverpool, on their own territory yesterday to finish the second half with four goals yesterday -14th April.

I was working as a steward yesterday at Chelsea Village – which includes the home of Chelsea FC - and felt the energy of the supporters (which included having to hold some of them back from invading the pitch at the Mathew Harding Stand) when Didier Drogba – in my view, the Premier league’s top scorer for this season – scored for Chelsea.

His strike put the game off its then balance and towards a positive result for Chelsea, as Frank Lampard then netted his second in the 89th minute to finally quell a magnificent effort from the visitors who let slip a 2-0 lead.

Eventually the final score was 4-4 but this meant Chelsea had won, as the total score, which included last week’s 3-1 result during the first half at Liverpool’s home ground, meant the final score was 5-7 to the Blues.

When the final whistle rang, the Chelsea supporters were dancing in the isles and in front of their seats to One Step Beyond, by Madness.

I took one of their flags, left behind by a fan, as a souvenir!

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It’s amazing – part II

Sheffield Wednesday let a 0-2 goal lead slip to see QPR’s B-team win 3-2, on Bank Holiday Monday, 13th April.

Previous manager Paulo Sousa would have been proud of them and the result, which shows that it’s not just Manchester United’s and Arsenal's youth project that's bearing fruit.

Ironically, it was at the Sheffield Wednesday stadium that Liverpool were playing against Nottingham Forest 20 years ago, that led to the tragedy of 96 fans losing their lives at this football match in Hillsborough, which has led to the high level of training and supervising of safety stewards and crowd control at football matches.

It’s also sad that fans still take the mickey over safety issues at football matches, from deliberately standing on chairs to using derogatory language that still makes it difficult for children to attend matches.

It’s also dissapointing to see and hear some dads using offensive language towards stewards in front of their children, as I experienced while working in crowd safety at QPR on Saturday 11th April.

Nevertheless, the anticipated display of anger against the chairman and co-owner Flavio Briatore didn’t amount to anything, with only a couple of drunkards protesting at the main entrance at how Paulo was removed from the club last week - after a leak of confidential club information.

It now means that QPR is now without a manager for the fifth time since Mr Briatore took over 18 months ago.

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I’m going to visit a pub in Wembley Central to watch tonight’s match: FC Porto vs Manchester United.

Part of Portugal’s name comes from this city, in the mid-west of this beautiful country.

No English side has ever won at the Dragao Stadium, so here’s wishing that Manchester United will be the first to break the hoodoo.

Porto is beautiful at night, as this aerial shot below shows, courtesy of Hedda blog.

Please don’t hesitate to visit my other internet site: www.andriagreaves.com

Until next time,

Andria

X

Robinho will come back stronger!

2009-04-08T11:46:00.000-07:00

Brazilian and Manchester City star Robinho won’t be facing any charges over an allegation that he committed a serious sexual assault at a nightclub in Leeds.

The 25 year-old was arrested, regarding a report by an 18 year-old woman in the northern city of Leeds in January this year.

But a spokeswoman from West Yorkshire Police said: “A file was submitted to the CPS (Crown Prosecution Service) who decided no further action should be taken.”

This must come as a huge relief for Robinho and his family.

It should also serve as a warning to other football stars in the media spotlight to be careful as to where you go after hours, as Robinho, his wife and family, from the time this started until now, must have been to hell and back over this allegation.

Neighbouring footballer Cristiano Ronaldo also went through a similar hell. Five years ago he too had a serious sexual accusation against him but came back from it a stronger and better player.

Hopefully Robinho will now do the same and we’ll finally see why Real Madrid received a share of the 32.5 million pound transfer fee, paid in September 2008.

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When talking of sport, many people still think of men running about on the rugby or football pitch.

Some even think about cricket – although not many realise why certain games are called a ‘test’.

So I want to pass on my congratulations to the Woman’s England Cricket team for winning the world cup a few weeks ago.

Let’s face it, when have we last said that about the England men’s cricket team?

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Hell’s Kitchen star Marco Pierre White is not a man to mess with!

So I wish all the stars in this year’s show, including Ms Dynamite, all the best which includes comedian Adrian Edmondson, who it seems Mr White has already tipped for success.

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Liverpool vs Chelsea, UEFA Champions League Quarter Final – tonight!

I’m going to be so excited to watch this match!

Mainly because I’m going to see how four great men, in two great teams, play off against each other.

They are:

John Terry v Fernando Torres

England’s best defender against one of the world’s best strikers.

It will be exceedingly interesting to see who comes out on top!

This match could depend on Terry’s power and positional excellence against Torres’ pace, guile and strength.

Frank Lampard v Steven Gerrard

Just who is England’s best midfielder?

England’s football manager Fabio Capello has found the key in having the pair both playing in midfield but this is the match where these two great men will finally be able to prove just who is top dog in midfield - once and for all.

Let the battle commence!

I’m now off to buy myself a cool, cold bottle of Jamaican Ginger Beer – sorry mum - as some of you may realise, I’m of Barbadian parentage.

But this drink hits the spot Sorrell simply doesn’t and I can’t make Mauby.

Light and Peace

Andria

PS, don’t forget to visit my other internet page: www.andriagreaves.com

PLEASE WATCH THE DAMNED UNITED FILM!

2009-04-02T08:50:00.001-07:00

I’d give this movie five out of five, if you understand the joy, passion and sometimes dark humour underlying British football.

Most of us know that the family of Brian Clough have criticised elements of this film but as far as I'm concerned, it’s an honest, warts-and-all portrait at what happened then - and probably even now – in English football.

It looks at Mr Clough’s doomed 44-day tenure as manager at Leeds United, a team that was the Manchester United of its day.

You can tell by the swagger and open confidence of the Leeds United team that anyone crossing swords with them was going to lose – it reminds me of today’s Manchester United football team, minus the 70s hairstyle, dodgy clothing and openly lit cigarettes of the players.

Mr Clough takes over from the previous manager Don Revie, who was also Mr Clough’s bitter rival.

This film shows that football managers have to contend with more than just choosing and running a football team.

It also shows how important it is for all of us to be surrounded with work colleagues who share the same goals in life as Mr Clough realised at Leeds, as he was without his right-hand man and clearly surrogate brother, Peter Taylor - played brilliantly by Timothy Spall.

It’s a heart-warming portrayal of Brian Clough, not an angry drunk that many have mistakenly claimed.

The film is true in showing how Mr Clough could be reckless and sometimes mis-calculating in his decision-making.

It also shows how manipulative the newly-promoted-to-England manager Mr Revie was towards Mr Clough and what a mountain any man had to climb, in dealing with the players at Leeds United once Revie left.

To get a taster of it, see the trailer, by clicking video on this:

www.sonypictures.co.uk/movies/thedamnedunited/#/home/

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Southampton Leisure Holdings, the owners of Southampton Football Club, have confirmed it has appointed Mark Fry and David Hudson, partners of Begbies Traynor, an accountancy firm, as administrators of the business.

With this and last year’s downturn in the economy, it was enviable that something like this was going to happen to a football club.

I wouldn’t be surprised if members of tomorrow’s G20 protestors turn out to be Southampton FC fans.

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So the Vodafone McLaren Mercedes racing team, represented on the racing pitch by Lewis Hamilton, have been disqualified from participating in the Australian leg of the Grand Prix.

Hamilton had finished the race fourth overall but was promoted to the podium after reporting Toyota’s Jarno Trulli for illegal overtaking.

But Trulli has now been reinstated to third place and with Jenson in poll position – no doubt, thanks to having Sir Richard Branson at his side, a man who knows about wining – it’s going to be tough for Lewis to hang onto the Formula One title!

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I’m really pleased that England’s football team, under Fabio Capello, have now won all five of their games to qualify for the FIFA World Cup.

2010 is a year to look forward to, as I’m sure that England will be heading for South Africa.

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I’m surprised that QPR football team forward Dexter Blackstock is joining Nottingham Forest, even if it is on loan.

He’s been amazing in creating and getting goals for QPR this season but I’m glad he’s looking forward to keep third-bottom Forest in the First Division Championship.

It's just that if QPR still want to push for promotion to the Premiership league, I would of thought they would be holding onto their best players, come what may.

After all, you don't see Manchester United loaning Wayne Rooney to Newcastle, despite the The Magpies being third-bottom and two points away from Premier League safety!

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Which brings me back, full circle, to Brian Clough, as after Leeds, he went to be a manager of a then struggling Division Two football team called Nottingham Forest, who not only gained promotion to Division One but played in the early years of the Premiership League.

I think that’s a good note to end it on.

Please visit my other internet site: www.andriagreaves.com

Here’s a picture of Wembley Stadium, home of British football, to warm your cockles, as I say ciao!

Light and Peace

Andria

X

The law and pictures – sigh again!

2009-03-19T12:31:00.000-07:00

Hi to one and all.

For those of you that have read what I’ve said about the law and pictures below, again, I’ve got some more pictures!

Use them at your own leisure.

They are completely free of charge – all I ask is that you mention my name, like when using flickr.

Remember to visit my other internet site: www.andriagreaves.com

Light and Peace

Andria

X

The law and pictures - sigh!

2009-03-19T12:06:00.001-07:00

Some of you may realise that now, that Anyone taking a photograph of a police officer is in danger of being arrested on the account of committing an offence under section 76 of the Counter Terrorism Act 2008 which provides:

A person commits an offence who elicits or attempts to elicit information about an individual who is or has been
(i) a member of Her Majesty’s forces
(ii) a member of any of the intelligence services, or
(iii) a constable, which is of a kind likely to be useful to a person committing or preparing an act of terrorism

The offender could face a fine or even imprisonment if a link to terrorism is proved.

The result is that amateur and professional photographers could be asked to explain why they are taking photographs, if the circumstances are deemed suspicious.

So rather than have a go at anyone, here’s some more pictures I’ve taken that are completely free of charge – all I ask is that you mention my name, like when using flickr.

Please don’t hesitate to view my other internet site: www.andriagreaves.com

Light and Peace

Andria

X

There’s more – ha ha

2009-03-05T11:00:00.001-08:00

Yes you didn’t think I’d leave the rest of you out too!

Again, my other internet site is: www.andriagreaves.com

Light and Peace

Andria Greaves

Enc

SOMETHING STRANGE HAPPENED TO MY CAMERA!

2009-03-05T10:44:00.000-08:00

So rather than say something stupid, I truly thank those who found it – and took some strange pictures of themselves in the process!

Thanks so much for returning my camera guys – I seriously thought I had lost it for good when it went missing in November 2008 at the University of Westminster’s Newsroom One.

The fact that you returned it speaks for itself.

The only reason I’m posting the pictures now, is due to the need of getting everyone’s approval.

So here you have it – here are some of the MA in Journalism Studies students, print pathway, 2008/2009 - with no names included!

Don’t hesitate to view my other internet site: www.andriagreaves.com

Light and Peace

Andria

Enc

ENDER A LEGEND

2009-02-27T09:44:00.000-08:00

Wendy Richard, MBE, aka Pauline Fowler, Rest In Peace.

This woman played many roles in her career, including Miss Brahms in Are You Being Served?

Other programs she was in include The Likely Lads, On The Buses, and many Carry On films, including Carry On Matron.

She died of cancer in London’s Harley Street Clinic, with her husband John Burns at her side.

Farewell Wendy Richard (1943-2009) and thank you so much for so many years of entertainment.

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Former Arsenal striker Thierry Henry has finally found love again, with a model who goes by the name of Andrea.

The couple are said to of met in Barcelona, home of the Spanish football club Thierry joined in 2007.

Although it was sad to see his marriage, to English model Claire break up, it’s even better to see that he’s moved on.

Furthermore, Andrea has been credited in helping Henry regain his form on the pitch.

It just goes to show that becoming a WAG has its benefits for both the player and his partner.

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It seems that millionaire Manchester United football star Carlos Teves has to hitch a lift from his team-mates!

Cops impounded his £140,000 Bentley near the club’s training ground – then found out that Carlos may not have the right to drive in the UK.

The Bentley is now at his home in Cheshire, while he keeps hitching for a lift.

Here’s another option Carlos, since taking the bus is clearly too common for you – hire a cab firm instead.

It’s not as if you don’t have the money!

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I see that former footballer Paul Gascoigne has given an interview about his fear of drinking himself to death.

After admitting to the overdrinking of alcohol and taking cocaine, I see that he received his wake-up call when in September 2008, he had to fight off ugly rumors that he was dead in a Northumberland hotel room.

Now Paul is at the Tony Adams Sporting Chance Clinic in the Champney’s health spa at Forest Mere, Hampshire.

Mr Adams has had is own very public battle with the booze and drugs - he won, so having his help and support should make a real difference for Mr Gascoigne.

Now that Paul knows that he has got a future - simply because he now likes himself - Mr Gascoigne’s determined not to make the same mistakes as another football legend, George Best.

Good on you Paul and may you never drink again.

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The main actress of the hit film Slumdog Millionaire is on the front cover of Vogue India’s March 2009 edition.

Well done Freida Pinto and I hope we will be seeing more of you in the present and future – it’s about time we had more actress of colour doing well in films, whether they be independent or from Hollywood.

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The pictures by Clark Little, 39, of a crest of a wave are wonderful.

This man has clearly risked his life for photographing such pictures and is now publishing some of them.

Here’s a link to one of them: i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee65/kellychan3/ClarkLittle_Postcard_Front_02.jpg

Don’t hesitate to view my other internet site: www.andriagreaves.com

I’ve included some more pictures of my time in Barbados for you to see.

The one with the woman in the middle picture below, with her arms outstretched, next to an old-fashioned glass-based rum bottle, is when I attended a Mount Gay Tour in Bridgetown, the capital of this country.

Did you know the name for Barbados comes from the Portuguese – they called it Los Bardos, on route to Brazil.

Light and Peace

Andria

X

I feel I’ve gone 12 rounds in a boxing match today

2009-02-23T12:02:00.000-08:00

Hi to one and all

I’ve been learning how to use Final Cut Pro to edit television/film footage.

It took us – a team of four women - all day to get footage for a news package that only lasts one minute and thirty seconds!

My colleague Stuart – who was in a different team - was smart enough to start his on Friday just gone, so his news package is already sorted – nice one! (I say this in total admiration, not anger or jealously).

Everyone else, including my team, will have to finish ours on Tuesday.

I was a football steward again on Saturday 21st February, at the home ground of Queens Park Rangers – QPR - at home to Ipswich FC.

The final score, which I found out the next day on the internet, was QPR 1 Ipswich 3.

That probably explains why I had an unwanted discord with a QPR fan at half time, who was blocking a fire exit door but wouldn’t budge when I politely asked him to do so.

At least a third of the CES staff didn’t turn up, which explains why I was managing two VIP doors and the toilets – the men always seem to stray into the ladies room! In most cases, it’s a genuine mistake.

Nevertheless, what I enjoyed about this football game, which I didn’t get to watch, was distributing the left-over food to the stewards and hospitality staff who were working that day.

I always ensure to do this fairly, as many of these workers start their shift on an empty stomach, so if some food is available, I think it’s only right to make sure everyone gets a fair share.

I’m grateful the catering staff are aware they can trust me to do the right thing, rather than hog up the food for myself or reserve it for a few ‘favourites’ that get everything.

As I saw with my own eyes, the supervisors continuously pestered catering for free food and didn’t give two-hoots for anyone else.

I admit, I like the responsibility, as it shows the permanent catering staff realise I’m also a responsible and reliable person.

That means so much to me, for which I’m grateful as to have authority does equal responsibility.

Those that abuse this, whether it be at a football match or running a national magazine, will be caught out, no matter what they do or say, or how much time has elapsed.

I’ve included some more pictures of my time in Barbados, including the Chase family vault and some school kids – please go and see this country!

Don’t hesitate to visit my other internet site: www.andriagreaves.com

Light and Peace

Andria

X

PS, if you want to have something to laugh about, please go to YouTube and see this: www.youtube.com/watch?v=VIqRvg3TAfk

THE UK IS A FAST FOOD NATION!

2009-02-20T10:09:00.000-08:00

Yes it seems that there are winners to be found in the current economic trend and it’s not just the pawnbrokers.

Demand for junk food is soaring, with KFC announcing plans to hire up to 9,000 staff to help open and run up to 300 new outlets.

Pizza delivery company Dominos and burger chain McDonald’s have also done well and revealed a big rise in profits this week.

Sandwich chain Subway is opening more shops in Britain and Ireland this year and budget chains Lidl and Aldi have also seen an increase in sales.

All this doesn’t look good when fighting obesity, which is already a real cause for concern affecting the UK as it is!

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The picture of magician Paul Daniels, 70, and his wife Debbie McGee, 50, are both funny and clever.

In a light-hearted take on the Beckhams’ recent fashion shoot for Armani, this couple are clearly determined to up their profile.

The full feature appears in Closer magazine, on sale now.

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The search for Lord Allen Stanford continues!

The U.S Securities and Exchange Commission has accused the Texan financer of defrauding 50,000 customers around the world in a multibillion-dollar investment scheme.

This Lord, who changed the shape of worldwide cricket with his winner-takes-all match in Antigua, can’t seem to be found anywhere.

Not surprisingly, English cricket’s governing body will not proceed with plans to stage further Stanford Twenty20 matches or the Stanford Super Series - the first match had been due to be held at Lord’s this May.

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IT SEEMS LIKE MANCHESTER UNITED HAVE WON THE TITLE – AGAIN!

I hope that doesn’t sound defeatist but I think that after the consistency this team’s shown, it’s more than likely that Man U have already romped home.

Many view Liverpool FC’s manager Rafael Benítez’s decision to sell Robbie Keane back to Tottenham Hotspur as a big mistake to their title chances, particularly now, looking at the current health issues surrounding Steven Gerrard.

With Scolari gone, it’s highly doubtful they’ll be another manager able to prevent Manchester United from gaining another title win.

Don’t get me wrong, I do want Sir Alex to have real competition and I hope he’s pushed to the limit but inevitably his team’s playing right and showing good, regular consistency.

I’ll be happy to be proven wrong but I doubt it.

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I’ve grown up watching The Simpsons’ so seeing the new shots of them going around the world trying to catch their sofa, instead of rushing to sit on it, is amazing.

I know all the other shots by heart, including Bart having to write lines on the chalkboard, Maggie being scanned through a till, Lisa showing indifference at being thrown out of the school orchestra.

But now their sofa will lead them out of Springfield to Venice and outer space!

To watch the new opening credits, go to www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZGz1Ajg7QU

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It seems that Victoria Beckham has finally found her calling in life.

Her new range of designer outfits has gone down well.

I admit, looking at the range of clothes, I can now see why the critics were forced to ‘eat their words’.

Her sexy dresses are exactly that and are flattering too.

I would buy the mini-shirted purple one, displayed in the Metro newspaper on 17th February 2009, page 23, if I had the money for it.

Well done Mrs Beckham – as soon as my course is over, I’m making sure I’ll get the dress I like.

Don’t hesitate to view my other internet site: www.andriagreaves.com

I've included some pictures when I was in Barbados in January 2006.

The one at the bottom is my cousin Stephanie with her arms around a cooking pot which was used to dish food out to the slaves who were working on sugar plantations - my ancestors.

The second picture is of my uncle Ambrose hugging his wife Margaret, with his daughter sitting on the right of them - may you truly rest in peace, dear uncle.

Light and Peace

Andria

Enc

VALENTINE'S DAY SUCKS!

2009-02-16T11:10:00.000-08:00

Well it did for me, as I had no one to share it with!

It seems that I wasn’t the only one, as England and Chelsea ace Frank Lampard has been dumped by his Spanish fiancée, divorcee Elen Rives.

It seems that after all the straying he’s done from the martial bed – yes they’ve never actually married but they do have two biological children together – Ms Rives decided to call it a day during a holiday in Florida last month.

I truly feel sorry for both of them, as Elen was Lampard’s first proper girlfriend and they’ll be no shortage of women who will be happy to replace Luna – so long as Frank keeps playing top-flight football and for a high profile club.

As touching as it is to see a man like Mr Lampard on the football pitch, showing equal measure of skill, strength, passion and dedication to his team, they’ll be plenty of women who will be willing to be his mistress and others waiting to be Mrs Frank Lampard who only care about using his name and title to further their own talents and profile – if they have any!

Sadly they’ll be no shortage of "models" or "singers" who will see Mr Lampard as a meal ticket for instant fame, not like Ms Rives, who – unlike the majority of WAGS – kept a low profile.

Because Frank and Elen weren’t married, they won’t be going through a messy divorce, unlike Thierry Henry’s split from his wife, or Ian Wright’s divorce from then wife Deborah - she too had enough of forgiving Ian and decided to walk away.

Her interview in The Mail newspaper, after the revelation of another Chelsea FC player, Ashley Cole, cheating on his wife, Girls Aloud performer Cheryl, was moving and touching.

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It’s impossible not to know about Jade Goody’s increasing problem regarding her battle against cancer.

Like many who watched Ms Goody over the years, I’ve grown to see her take on one challenge after another and seeing the recent pictures of her with no hair are just as powerful as the interviews accompanying them.

Keep showing everyone that you’re a survivor Jade and I hope all goes well on your wedding day.

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Congratulations to Kate Moss on being pregnant with her second child.

She seems really happy with Jamie Hince and having a younger brother or sister will be great for Kate’s daughter Lila Grace, now six years of age.

She’s past the important 12-week stage so hopefully it should now be plain sailing – even with the delivery, as once you’ve had your first, it’s easy regarding the next delivery – so I’ve been told, as I’ve never given birth yet, ha ha!

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I was a football steward on Saturday 14th February, for West Ham Vs Middlesbrough, which involved a lot of tight stewarding but the match went well.

Since it was on a day that I had no red roses to give or receive, I’ll report on the day’s events like this:

This match reminded me of Kanye West’s album 808s & Heartbreak: both sides suffered their fair share of woes and scoffing the chocolates as the match ended one each side.

Both teams were upbeat and happy at the start of the event, which really wasn’t remarkable, with the ball simply passing from player to player.

A few challenges did happen but the pitch came alive after the 22nd minute, when Stewart Downing for M'borough hit home the first goal.

The hammers fans – who were right behind the goal, could only give blank stares, as if their valentine had thrown all the candy and roses back in their face and was openly cavorting with a new love, with the first track off the 808s album, Say You Will, ringing in my ears.

The M’broough fans cheered on at their team getting the first goal, even if it was a scrappy affair, like getting the girl you want then showing indifference towards her now she’s yours.

But West Ham weren’t to be beat, as in the 83rd minute, left-back Herita Ilunga scored a fine goal, again with the Hammers fans right behind them.

Their joy at equalising was ecstatic; like a husband who was glad his unfaithful wife was back with him for good, they simply didn’t care about what had happened in the past.

The fifth track of the Heartbreak album, Love Lockdown must have been the song on the minds of the West Ham fans, while the Middlesbrough supporters were left humming the 3rd tune, appropriately called Heartless, realising their lover – sorry the points – will have to be shared, whether they like it or not.

In all, both sides had their backs scrubbed: the 4th song off the above album, Amazing (featuring Young Jeezy) said it the best.

It was a good day, which started and ended well.

I’ve got some more pictures to show you of my time at Liverpool – including me with no make-up on – please go and see this city, you’ll enjoy yourself!

Don’t forget to check out my other internet site: www.andriagreaves.com

Light and Peace

Andria Greaves

Enc

I like the front picture of Michelle Obama on the front cover of the March 2009 US edition of Vogue

2009-02-13T10:07:00.000-08:00

She is pictured in a Jackie Kennedy style picture with the perfect words fitting it: Michelle Obama, the first lady the world’s been waiting for.

Here, here!

Sadly I’ve also seen the front picture in The Sun newspaper showing 13-year-old Alfie Patten with his newborn daughter.

Children having children is a big worry and I hope this highlights just how important sex education is for adolescents and shouldn’t be ignored.

The far-right Dutch MP Geert Wilders has been banned from the UK after unsuccessfully trying to see the British premiere of his anti-Islamist film.

It seems that he’s getting more publicity than ever as it was shown over the newsrooms how this previously little-known eccentric politician was man-handled at Heathrow.

The audience for his film, which was shown in UK Parliament, was less than 30.

It’s good to see that the latest X-factor winner Alexandra Burke has signed a £3 million US record deal.

I hope she cracks the US market like the 2006 X-factor winner Leona Lewis.

I’m going to be a football steward at West Ham FC this Saturday when they play against Middlesbrough – yes it’s the 14th of February, a day that single people like me don’t actually like!

No red roses for me, just hard work on an empty stomach – unless I have a big breakfast in the morning, as no safety steward is allowed to eat when you start working, which is hours before the kick-off.

Even when the match has finished, football stewards are still working for many hours afterwards.

Nevertheless, I’m so glad to be working, once again doing a job that’s truly exciting – I wouldn’t miss it for anything.

This is an FA Cup match and considering West Ham were finalists in 2006 - losing to Liverpool at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff as Wembley Stadium was still under construction - it’s sure to be a good match.

Many thanks to CES – Controlled Events Solutions – for booking me and I’m really sorry Tajinder that we can’t meet this week.

Tajinder Gill is a colleague-turned-friend who I met when I was the deputy editor, many years ago at the now defunct London Voice newspaper.

She’s remained a true mate through thick and thin and now works for the NUT.

I assure you Taj I’ll explain all when we next meet.

It snowed again in North-West London on Thursday evening – 12th February - but I’m glad to say it didn’t result in the trouble we had last week in preventing people from travelling from A to Z.

Boris Johnson, the Mayor for London, has launched the London Delivery Board, in order to tackle the city’s homeless problem.

Half the country’s rough sleepers are found in London – a total of 3,000 people over the course of a year, so any plans to tackle this problem is bound to be welcomed by many.

I’ve got some more pictures to show of my time in Liverpool, a city that’s so unique.

Some of these pics are from the Anti-Slavery International museum, some are regarding my time being on the ghost-walk tour of Liverpool – there’s only one at the moment - and some are just from me walking around central Liverpool.

I’ve just remembered that when I was on the Magic Mystery Tour, I sat next to a guy from Norway who had flew in with two mates to see Liverpool FC, which shows the international appeal of this city and its football team.

Enjoy!

Light and Peace

Andria Greaves

Please don’t forget to visit my other internet address: www.andriagreaves.com

I’M GOING TO STAR IN A DOCUMENTARY!

2009-02-12T11:47:00.000-08:00

Hi to one and all

A journalist on the International Journalism course, broadcast pathway, at the University of Westminster has asked me to feature in a documentary about being a football ground steward and how to tackle ground violence.

It will also be asking me about grounds behaviour, especially in the wake of a man fined £450.00 for head-butting a steward in Milton Keynes last week and the reactions of Chelsea FC fans regarding the decision to replace Luiz Felipe Scolari as their manager.

Other concerns addressed in the programme include managing rowdy fans, alcohol and drink issues.

I’m grateful that Natasha Kersh – the producer and presenter of the documentary - wants to hear from me and I’m willing to give my views, opinions and insights.

This reminds me when I visited the wonderful city of Liverpool – yes I know its the roots is slavery, as without it, Liverpool wouldn’t of developed into the marital might it became but I assure you, the people of this city are friendly, warm and looking at how multi-cultural it is today, it’s definitely worth a visit.

I spend four days in this beautiful city, seeing the Anti-Slavery International museum, the Roman Catholic and Church of England Cathedrals, The Beatles museum, the Yellow Submarine Tour, the Superlambananna statue - yes that's what it's called - and I went on a ghost tour, which included visiting a pyramid tomb of a man who tried to cheat the devil - to find out why, you must go on the tour!

I also went on the Magical Mystery tour which visits where the members of the Beatles grew up. They came from good, middle-class upbringings, certainly not the barely two-pennies-to-rub belief many have of their backgrounds!

All of these places I highly recommend anyone to visit but I admit, the highlight was going to Liverpool Football Club which included a tour – providing access to the team’s changing room and includes a visit to their museum.

I went for two days, firstly to capture the atmosphere of the fans before a Premiership home match – the warmth around me was truly amazing and magnificent.

I’ve included some pictures of my time at Liverpool and hope they can encourage you to see for yourself just why I highly recommend a visit to this area of the UK.

Don’t forget to visit my other internet page: www.andriagreaves.com

Light and Peace

Andria Greaves

What a kroc!

2009-02-09T09:56:00.000-08:00

Luiz Felipe Scolari is a victim of the “instant success” culture that now surrounds English football.

Sir Alex Ferguson took at least five years to bring silverware to Manchester United.

It took him that long to change the culture the previous manager Ron Atkinson had left behind.

Looking at the recent demise of Tony Adams and Paul Ince, the pressures on Premiership managers to achieve a quick fix result is immense.

This is Chelsea’s loss not Scolari, who is a well-respected manager in his own right.

Furthermore Luiz Felipe left a good job as Portugal manager to come here – he WILL get a good pay off.

But he’s only managed seven games at Chelsea FC – you can’t change a culture overnight and Luiz Felipe was working with a team he didn’t choose.

The Chelsea managerial job is now a poison chalice – who on earth will now want that job, after the treatment of Scolari and previous managers José Mourinho and Claudio Ranieri?

Perhaps Chelsea FC owner Roman Abramovich should run the team himself!

Don’t forget to visit my other internet site: www.andriagreaves.com

Light and Peace

Andria Greaves – never scared!

Top reasons

2009-01-29T07:42:00.000-08:00

Hi to one and all.

I’ve been looking through the newspapers today – what a wonderful, surprising world we live in!

I see that a stuntman has been injured on the Harry Potter set while filming a role as the star himself, played over the years by Daniel Radcliffe.

The injured 25 year-old, was rushed to hospital after the accident, near Watford, while filming the latest installment of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.

I’m sure I speak for everyone, when I wish this un-named man a speedy recovery.

I also see that TV presenter Denise Van Outen is now engaged to Joseph star Lee Mead – congratulations to both of them.

The age difference – Denise at 34 is seven years older than her husband-to-be – is irrelevant when it comes to compatibility.

Fame will come and go but love never dies.

Maybe that’s the romantic in me but I believe anything in life that’s worth having includes some waiting and working-hard for. I’m glad that after a tumultuous love life, including a three-year romance with singer Jay Kay, Ms Van Outen has finally found her prince.

It seems that chat show king Jonathan Ross faces a £4.5million pay cut if his BBC contract is renewed next year.

Many others, including Sir Terry Wogan, Graham Norton and Jeremy Paxman are also facing wage cuts.

Five newsreader Natasha Kaplinsky has accepted a £375,000 pay cut, to continue reading the news part-time.

Looking at the current economic climate, I take my hat off to all mentioned above, which will help save other journalists jobs at the BBC, BBC News and Five News.

It’s only when such maneuvers are being used to force people out of their jobs, that it becomes another matter.

Yes we may work hard but regardless of what salary we earn, if you ever find yourself being left out of things at work, their can be some unpleasant reasons why and unless it’s bullying or avoiding gossipy people…

1. “The Sky isn't really blue - it's actually cyan”
Do you incessantly spout unnecessary or obscure information that would make a sad train spotter jealous? Get rid of the “know-it-all” attitude or you'll make a career of lunching alone.

2. Chains of love
Are you never around because you're always out on a “smoking break?”
Limit your puffs to standard break times.

3. Workaholic wannabe
Do you stroll in late, take extra long lunches and don’t really start to roll-up your sleeves and dig into some serious work until about 2 p.m.?
Then, do you make sure everyone sees you working past 5 p.m.?
Well you don’t impress anyone; rather you’re annoying those who already have put in a full day before you even get warmed up.

4. Hello Magazine -- Office Edition
You're very good at filing away information -- about everyone in the office! If you want to keep friends, learn to keep a secret.

5. Nattering
Do you go round the office forcing one-way conversations on your innocent victims? If the only response you receive is, “Right, umm, right,” then they’re not interested in your blather. Now get back to work!

6. Mr un-clean
Leaving dishes in the sink, old food in the fridge, food splattered inside the microwave and crumbs on the break table is a sure-fire way to annoy fellow workers. Clean up your act.

7. Big mouth
Are your phone conversations loud enough to be from the speakerphone even though they're not?
Dial down the volume to keep the peace.

If you recognise yourself or close work friends in any of these scenarios, take heed. It's time to change your ways or stop having any contact with such 'friends'.

Of course you can never please everyone, but healthy inter-office relationships are necessary to properly perform your duties and for future advancement in the company.

So get rid of some of your annoying habits or mates and you'll be sure to gain some new friends and respect.

Light and Peace

Andria

PS, don’t forget to view my other internet site: www.andriagreaves.com

Light and Peace

Andria

X

WHAT A DIFFERENCE A DAY MAKES!

2009-01-27T09:33:00.000-08:00

I finally went to the gym yesterday – hurrah!

Because I’m still having problems with my eyesight, I can only use stationary items, such as the rowing machine and certain weight-bearing units.

Nevertheless, I’m glad that at least I can see something and thanks to my bout of having Chinese medicine treatment, I can certainly feel an improvement.

I’m not ignoring established medical advice and after nagging my doctors, I’ve secured an appointment for an MRI-scan early next month, to find out why my sight has deteriorated.

Before, they said the earliest I can be seen was July 2009!

In the meantime, my Chinese medicine therapy consists of drinking a tea, twice a day, called Bai Xian Pi, which clears Heat, expels toxins, and calms itching.

Considering my dislike of needles, I find it strange that I would ever agree to acupuncture but because I’m so desperate to get better and considering the medics don’t know what’s wrong with me – which is why eye laser treatment is out of the question – rather than sit back and feel self-pity, I’d rather get up and do something about it.

I’m going to have my next session tomorrow at 12noon, so wish me luck!

Looking at the newspapers today, most are full of Prince Harry’s former girlfriend Chelsy Davy wearing so much make-up she looked ORANGE.

Talk about looking forward to a bright future!

I’m glad that four Lords at the centre of the peers for hire scandal are being investigated.

Regardless of the political views, this is an important vindication for journalism in safeguarding the truth and preventing corruption having a base in the UK’s political structure.

US President Barack Obama has reversed the Bush regime on environmental policy and has allowed individual states in America to impose stricter car pollution laws.

Considering the USA is the world’s highest polluter, I hope this change works for the better.

Congratulations to no-longer-ginger-spice girl Geri Halliwell on getting engaged to Fabrizio Politi. I wish them both the very best in life.

Extra congratulations to pop star and actress Jessica Simpson – yes she’s put on weight but looks better for it.

Her pictures of her performing at a festival showed she had curves in the right places – good for her.

I also see that a witch has put a hex on the judges of Britain’s Got Talent judges Simon Cowell, Piers Morgan and Amanda Holden.

Real people of ignorance will accept this woman’s behaviour but the majority of us will know that her remarks were simply down to sour grapes that she wasn’t picked and simply move on.

I’m glad that Kelly Brook was able to wave and smile after she left a beauty salon in West London yesterday.

It was sad that it didn’t work out for her on the Britain’s Got Talent but as she showed years ago when she was terminated from the then Channel 4 show The Big Breakfast, this woman is a survivor and will always come up trumps.

I’ve been listening to Chris Rock on the following internet site: www.thelaughbutton.com

Even if Mr Rock isn’t your cup of tea, the various artists on this site mean you will find something you’ll like.

Don’t hesitate to visit my other site: www.andriagreaves.com

Andria Greaves - never scared.

Hello!

2009-01-26T05:06:00.000-08:00

I was a steward at the Chelsea match against Ipswich on Saturday 24 January 2009 and I can just about tell you how much fun I had!

To do a job that you’d be willing to do for free – if it weren’t for the fact that we all need money to live on – and be paid for it, while monitoring crowd safety really is a rewarding experience that I’d recommend to anyone.

I don’t support a team but I do appreciate the skill, hard work and tenacity that goes into a match, as well as the scoring and wining goals.

Credit must be shown to Ipswich, who played very well but the Chelsea team were simply stronger, fitter and faster and it showed.

Chelsea were the first to get blood, 16 minutes after the match started when Michael Ballack - who at 32 is still showing no signs of burning out - stretched to reach Ashley Cole’s low cross.

But the hone team’s defensive weakness was highlighted when Alex Bruce – son of former Manchester United player and now Wigan boss Steve – equalised for Ipswich 18 minutes later.

The roar from their fans was electrifying!

But the speed and pace of the Chelsea team once again proved to be too much for the visitors when just before the hour, Ballack scored a magnificent free kick.

The roar from the Chelsea fans at the east gate was equally impressive – and they didn’t hold back taunting the Ipswich fans by shouting: “You what?” to the now silent Ipswich supporters.

I also have to give credit to the two managers of the match, Jim Magilton for Ipswich and Luiz Felipe Scolari for Chelsea as both men remained controlled when goals were scored and remained focused on the team, making subs when necessary.

It’s easy to see that Scolari is an experienced manager, who clearly keeps his head when others around him and on the pitch were loosing theirs.

I know he’s usually noted for his temper but looking at his behaviour on Saturday, he seems to of mellowed.

The above actions from the Chelsea supporters and football team seemed to knock out the will from Ipswich, as during the second half, Chelsea again showed just why their players receive the salary they do, as you could tell they wanted success more.

Not surprisingly, they got it.

Frank Lampard, five minutes before the final whistle, scored an amazing goal that showed nothing but class and the Chelsea supporters knew they were leaving their football ground happy and content at seeing a good match and a good win.

I was also impressed by the speed of Ashley Cole who ran his legs off on the pitch, never taking his eye off the ball and made sure he helped out his team anyway he could.

When the final whistle was blown, the players were in good sprits and some swapped shirts with the opposing team.

Because it was cold, everyone had a longer t-shirt on that was underneath their playing shirt but Nicolas Anelka gave his top away without collecting one from a Wigan player.

As a result, his torso was shown to the crowd just before he went down the tunnel with just his underneath t-shirt showing. That man has a figure to die for!

The biggest cheer went to Frank Lampard, who was the last player on the field. He saluted the crowd by clapping to them just before he too disappeared down the players tunnel.

In all, it was a good day.

It’s also nice to see actress Natascha McElhone with her children at the premier of her new film The Secret of Moonacre.

Her husband, plastic surgeon Martin died in May 2008, without seeing their son Rex, who’s now two months old.

It’s good to see her again and Natascha will soon be filming agaiin, as she’s filming Heaven and Earth, which is about the first British female to gradate as a doctor – after posing as a man.

Clearly times have changed, as now that’s no longer the case, which is why boundaries must be pushed in any industry, regardless of the sex, age or race of the people concerned.

I hope to speak and hear from you soon!

Light and Peace

Andria

PS, don’t forget to visit my other internet address: www.andriagreaves.com

Hello!

2009-01-26T04:47:00.000-08:00

HEAVEN AND HELL

2009-01-20T05:52:00.000-08:00

Hi to everyone.

So much is going on in the world of late!

Like many, I’m going to enjoy watching Barack Obama being sworn in as the 44th President of the USA.

His success speaks for everyone who have fought hard to get where they are today, so let us enjoy today and be thankful that people of all races are realising the importance of getting the right person to do the job, regardless of race or age.

I must admit I also feel for Jade Goody and her battle against cervical cancer.

Yes she did upset a lot of people, not just Shilpa Shetty, with her remarks in the last Celebrity Big Brother but like most people in the UK, I truly wish her a speedy recovery and hope she’s back on top form soon.

I’ve not been watching this year’s Celebrity Big Brother as much as the last time. I suppose it’s because I’ve got so much on at the moment, with study and fitting in work experience in between coursework and holidays.

I realise Michelle, the former Liberty X singer was the latest celebrity to be booted off, in a stand-off between herself and TV presenter Ulrika Jonsson.

Many people are waiting for Ms Jonsson to spill the beans on affairs with former England manager Sven Gorran-Erikson and former Aston Villa striker Stan Collymore, so I’m not surprised that Michelle was evicted.

Nevertheless, I hope her time on the show pays off and gives her the springboard to re-launch her career.

In football, it’s clear that Liverpool have dented their title hopes with a one-all draw against Everton yesterday.

But the big football story by far is Brazilian footballer Kaka saying no to a transfer to Manchester City.

It just goes to show that money isn’t everything - but it is important as he already gets £6million a year. He’s also deeply religious - Kaka recently took off his AC Milan shirt to reveal his t-shirt, which said in perfect English: “I belong to Jesus.”

He remained a virgin until his wedding day in December 2005, to his childhood sweetheart Caroline Cellco.

Those two acts alone are admirable.

Kaka also often prays with his team-mates when he meets up with the Brazilian national team.

Looking at the debauchery that exists in the world of top-flight English football - which helped to corrupt George Best who wasn’t strong enough to resist the temptations - it’s probably for the best that his move to Manchester City has collapsed.

I’m looking at where I’m going to spend my holidays and looking at the pictures of Chelsea billionaire Roman Abramovich and singer Amy Winehouse letting it all hang out – literally – during their break in the Caribbean, it’s providing amusement to the good knowledge that at least I’ll be able to enjoy mine, wherever it is, knowing that no-one but me will care about how I look – which isn’t good at the moment!

I’m finally going to the gym today to do some toning.

It will be the first time this year that I’ll be making the effort to shape up. No excuses today.

On a happier note, I see that Tilly Lockey, a three year-old girl has got a pair of false hands as hers were destroyed when he contracted the brain bug Meningitis when she was just 17 months old.

Her new hands work by sensors attached to her elbows that pick up her muscle movements.

Congratulations Tilly and I hope your campaign to get prosthetic limbs goes well.

If you want to donate anything, click on: www.givetillyahand.com

Don’t forget to visit my other site: www.andriagreaves.com

Light and Peace

Andria