London Greek Radio

The famous British Cypriot singer-songwriter George Michael, Georgios Kyriakos Panayiotou, sadly passed away at his Oxfordshire home on Christmas Day aged 53 years-old. His death has been said to be due to a suspected heart failure. The UK Greek Cypriots feel like they‘re saying goodbye to one of their own. People from all over the country have visited his Highgate house to lay flowers, cards and candles; you can see the Greek and Cypriot flag hoisted on the fence gate of his place.

George Michael was born on June 25th 1963, in East Finchley. He leaves behind his father Kyriacos Panayiotou, aka Jack Panos, a Greek restaurateur from Patriki in Karpasia and his two sisters Melanie and Yioda. His mother Lesley Anigold Panayiotou was an English lady and a dancer who passed away in 1997.

George Michael was known to have generously pledged his signed discs for London Greek Radio‘s Radiomarathon appeal, he never liked it publicised as such although the set-up around the charity would often mention it on-air and very understandably.

Cyprus’s Deputy Government Spokesperson, Victoras Papadopoulos, and ex-journalist of London Greek Radio, speaking to Cypriot media’s Sigma Live reflects about his personal encounter with pop star George Michael.

”I met George Michael while working as a journalist for London Greek Radio between 1989 -1995 during my postgraduate studies,” Papadopoulos told Sigma Live English.

”At the time George Michael was at the height of his fame.”

”For at least two consecutive years, from what I remember, he visited the radio station and gifted gold vinyl’s to be auctioned for Cyprus’ Radiomarathonios Foundation, at which LGR participated.”

Our listener Kat Koulle tweeted in: Remember listening to @LGR1033 Radiomarathon when I was younger and George would often donate a signed CD to raise money. #RIPGeorge

London Greek Radio has been supporting Radiomarathon Centre based in Turkey Street in the borough of Enfield, where the listeners fundraising is helping children and young adults with learning disabilities at the centre, for a number of years.

Since George Michael’s death, revelations of his acts of kindness and generosity have seen the light of day, for a person who liked his anonymity to be kept. His philanthropic acts helped Terrence Higgins Trust and Macmillan Cancer Trust, as did the UK Thalassaemia Society (UKTS), of which he was Patron.

He gave a student nurse £5,000.00 to cover her debt and £15,000.00 for IVF treatment all anonymously. He also issued free tickets to nurses to watch his concert in Wembley. All the royalties to his 1996 single ‘Jesus to a Child’ went to Childline, reveals its founder and president Dame Esther, very determined it wasn’t out in the public knowledge.

High-level Cypriot figures and individuals have added tributes including the President of the National Federation of Cypriots in the UK Christos Karaolis speaking to London Greek Radio, stated: ”George Michael is one of the most well-known U.K. Cypriots, selling over 100 million records worldwide and winning multiple music awards including 3 Brit Awards. Through his outstanding contribution to the music industry and charity over the years, he highlighted the proud and exceptional contribution of Cypriots to the UK. He will be greatly missed but his legacy will live on. Our hearts go out to his family”.

WE have since learnt that Michael almost represented Cyprus at 1984’s Eurovision Song Contest with song ‘Anna Maria Lena’…?? Andy Paul that year was our Cypriot entry obviously…

He revealed the original idea was to have Michael perform it and they discussed it at great lengths, with the powers that be. Michael’s father Jack pushed the idea to have Michael sing it, only to be refused because he couldn’t sing Greek. As it turned out to be, Eurovision rules only permitted countries to sing in their language that time. Andy on his Facebook page noting: ”We stayed in contact and we met up a few times in the 80’s. He was a great artist and a warm human being. He will be missed, RIP George.”

The singer Andy Kyriacou writing on his Facebook page tells of his knowing Michael. ”We all know how talented he was, but he was also one of the loveliest and most genuine guys that I met on the music scene. I came across him regularly in the 80’s and he was so polite and gentle, always making the effort to come and say Hi. I’m proud to have made his acquaintance and equally proud that he was a fellow Greek Cypriot. Another great person taken from us with still, so much to offer. RIP George”.

One of our listeners actor Jimmy Andreas speaking on London Greek Radio recollected a personal story at Michael’s dad’s restaurant, during the heyday of his fame in the 1980’s Wham! He said a young Cypriot girl, a huge fan, she was absolutely delighted to see George Michael in the restaurant, ‘This is my son!’ his dad Jack proudly asserted.

Known as Yogo to his friends was inspiring others particularly Cypriots in the creativity industry, such as actress Eve Polycarpou. She was one-half of comedy duo Donna and Kebab alongside Martha Lewis in the 80’s, she felt empowered and inspired in ‘so many ways’ by his successes, in the 1980’s. Seeing British Cypriots excelling in the performing arts, breaking through was a totally big thing she pointed out on her Facebook page.

Pop star Peter Andre said that George Michael was ‘an incredible talent’ and that his is ‘an incredible loss’; while the distinguished maternal fetal medicine specialist Professor Kypros Nicolaides said he was shocked by news of the singer’s death and that he felt proud to share Cyprus with him as their fatherland.

The well-known psychologist and author Dr Linda Papadopoulos said that a George Michael poster used to be the biggest one in her teenage room wall. ”I was a fan of George, in every way, throughout my life and I’m truly devastated that he left this world so early – he brought so much happiness to so many. My thoughts go out to his family at this very difficult time. Rest in Peace, amazing George; not sure how this world is ever going to dance again without you here,” Dr Papadopoulos.

UK Cypriot entrepreneur Theo Paphitis tweeted that George Michael was an ‘unbelievable legend’ and singer-songwriter Yusuf Islam/Cat Stevens (born Steven Demetre Georgiou) tweeted that he was very sad to hear of his ‘Cypriot brother’ passing away.

The late pop icon will reportedly be laid to rest at Highgate Cemetery, next to his beloved mum in the family’s private plot.

Full details of the funeral are yet to be announced but it’s believed there may be two ceremonies – one for the family and another for fans.

R.I.P George, rest with the angels. Legend… You will live on forever.

Article written by lgr.co.uk

The UK is working with the United Nations to retain momentum in bringing lasting peace to Cyprus, British Minister of State responsible for Europe and the Americas, Sir Alan Duncan has said.

Duncan met on Wednesday with the UN top envoy on Cyprus, Espen Barth Eide in Greece.

Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades and Turkish Cypriot leader Mustafa Akinci are about to meet in Geneva Switzerland on January 9-11 in the context of the UN-sponsored talks to discuss all outstanding issues for a Cyprus settlement and exchange maps. On January 12 a conference on Cyprus will be convened in the presence of the guarantor powers (Greece, Turkey and the UK) and other relevant parties as needed to discuss the issue of guarantees and security.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkish troops invaded and occupied its northern third. President Anastasiades and Mustafa Akinci have been engaged in UN-backed talks since May 2015 with a view to reunify the island under a federal roof.

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Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras has asked British Prime Minister Theresa May for her support in the effort to find a just and viable solution of the Cyprus problem on the basis of UN resolutions and the acquis communautaire.

According to an announcement released from his press office, the Greek Prime Minister had a telephone conversation with Great Britain`s Prime Minister Theresa May.

“The Prime Minister outlined analytically Greece`s positions on the current developments of the Cyprus problem, in view of the multilateral conference in Geneva,” the press release says.

It adds that Tsipras requested May`s “support for a just and viable solution of the Cyprus problem on the basis of UN resolutions and the acquis communautaire.”

Earlier today, the Athens News Agency, citing a government source, reported that Tsipras was expected to have telephone conversations either today or in the coming days with with UK Prime Minister Theresa May, European Commission President Jean Claude Juncker, French President François Hollande and German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

Apart from the fact that each of the three countries holds special weight, Athens and the EU, the same source had said, continue to maintain the steadfast position that the European Union`s participation in a multilateral conference in Geneva on January 12 for the Cyprus problem is an indispensable precondition.

At any rate, it had added, the Republic of Cyprus is an EU member state and the Cyprus problem is a central issue which concerns Euro-Turkish relations.

A meeting which will take place between Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Kotzias and the new UN Secretary General, António Guterres, is considered to be of crucial importance as matters of substance as well as procedure are expected to be discussed.

In the meantime, in view of the multilateral conference in Geneva, the Greek Prime Minister will brief Greek political party leaders on Monday.

The Greek government expects that a climate of consensus will be ascertained since at a meeting of the Greek National Council of Foreign Policy, which has already taken place, according to sources, the dialogue which took place was constructive and positive.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. UN-brokered talks have been ongoing since May 2015 with a view to reunify the island under a federal roof.

Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades and Turkish Cypriot leader Mustafa Akinci have decided to meet in Geneva between January 9 and 11, when the two sides will be discussing the internal aspects of the Cyprus problem and will present maps. On January 12 a Conference on Cyprus is expected to take place in the presence of the three guarantor powers (Greece, Turkey and the UK) as well as other relevant parties, as is needed to deal with the chapter of security and guarantees.

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What’s On… New Year’s Eve… Community Events…

The countdown to celebrations to New Year’s Eve and where to go…

On Saturday 31st December, New Year’s Eve…

Going out or staying in don’t forget to tune in to London Greek Radio… 

Pure Cyprus,14 Goodwin Street, N4 3HQ

New Year’s Eve Meze Night.

For further details call 07795 06 0207

The Greek Cypriot Brotherhood of North Finchley

Cypria Maris… Nikos Shakolas and the band Moo Soo Too will be entertaining…

The well-known Sotiri Kampanela will be catering for souvla and meze throughout the night.

£45 per person.

The Greek Cypriot Brotherhood, 2 Britannia Road, N12 9RU

For reservations or further information 020 8445 7070 or 07956 25 7606

Article written by lgr.co.uk

Anna Vissi illustrates her new song ‘Προτιμώ Να Πεθαίνω’ with a countryside inspired story. Featuring an unpredictable trip to Crete, filled with suspense, Anna Vissi brings her new single to life.

The music video is actually based on the remixed version of her song, created by Themis Georgantas. The song, titled ‘Προτιμώ Να Πεθαίνω’ features on Anna Vissi’s latest album ‘Συνέντευξη’, meaning ‘Interview’, which perhaps implies the singer feels as if though she is making a personal confession in this latest album.

The album consists of 14 songs, each titled with a statement and together they create a heartfelt ‘Interview’.

The music and lyrics of the album, are once again, written by Vissi’s lifelong fellow traveller, Nikos Karvelas. Furthermore, Gerasimos Evaggelatos has contributed to the lyric-writing.

Right before the premiere of her live shows in Athens, Anna Vissi visited the island of Crete for an adventurous four-day trip, in order to film her brand new music video. During her stay in Crete, a countryside inspired story evolved, which is different from anything else we’ve seen from the singer.

The music video is directed by Manolis Leventelis, and the song was released under the Panik Records banner. The video, which is featured below is quirky, fun and something we haven’t seen before from Vissi.

Article written by Panayiotis Koutoulas

Well, it’s a Christmassy story with a happy ending for a local campaign which fought for the lights on the Christmas tree in Tally Ho Corner in North Finchley to be switched on this year. Now, finally lit-up, it is visible from the LGR House if you take a 15 to 20 minute walk or a 5 minute drive to the round–a–bout linking Tally Ho Corner on the long High Road stretch.

So, with an ’empty’ tree, especially looking out of this place for what you might expect to see this December, a local initiative certainly helped make Barnet council take their stance blatantly clear, and finally do the right, which was promised all along anyway.

Barnet Council has apologised for causing confusion over whether it would be funding lights for the ‘living’ Christmas tree at Tally Ho Corner in North Finchley this year.

Traders began a campaign to raise cash for the lights after they said they had been told by the council that no cash was available.

Woodside ward Labour councillor Alan Schneiderman accused the local authority of ‘a bar humbug attitude’.

Helen Michael, a London Cypriot lady who owns Cafe Buzz nearby took it upon herself to decorate the tree with her friend Tracey Allen, when other local traders followed suit and Martyn Gerrard Estate Agents pledged funds towards it.

But, following an email from The Press, the council announced funding would be available for lights for the tree, which was planted in 2014.

Dean Cohen of the Environment committee, said:

‘Generally we don’t fund Christmas trees and decorations in the borough. However, a few years ago we installed a permanent living tree in North Finchley, which we have dressed with lights. Unfortunately, this did not happen this year and I have instructed that the lights are installed by the end of this week.

‘I would like to apologise for any inconvenience this has caused and hope traders continue to enjoy the benefits of free Christmas parking at weekends in our town centres.‘

Well done to Helen and all the other traders showing true community spirit and helping to make sure the local authority followed through with lighting up the tree, only a few days before the festivities are due to begin in earnest.

 

Article written by London Greek Radio

Cyprus expects Turkey, which is responsible for the illegal stationing of more than 40.000 occupation troops in Cyprus, to take practical and concrete steps towards a Cyprus solution, particularly during the upcoming Conference of Cyprus, in Geneva, President of the Republic Nicos Anastasiades has said.

Receiving on Monday the credentials of High Commissioner of the Republic of Rwanda to the Republic of Cyprus, Joseph Rutabana, based in Tel Aviv, the President said that “for the past 18 months a new effort has begun which has provided, I have to admit, positive results. Progress has been achieved in the Chapters of Governance and Power-Sharing, Economy, EU and to a lesser extent the Chapter of Property”, but noted that “despite the remarkable progress achieved, differences remain on a number of issues relating to the Chapters I have mentioned”.

Referring to the meetings to be held in Geneva between 9-11 of January 2017, he said that the aim is to achieve further convergences on the internal aspects of the Cyprus problem.

He added that on 11 January maps will be submitted on territorial adjustments, noting that `progress on the above issues will allow us to come within reach of an agreement by creating the conditions and prospects for a successful conclusion of the multilateral Conference on Cyprus on 12th of January, which will discuss issues that relate to the international aspects of the Cyprus problem, and in particular on the Chapter of Security and Guarantees and ways and means to ensure the smooth implementation of the settlement`.

The President stressed that `at this critical juncture, I wish to reassure of my determination to reach a successful outcome at the negotiations in Geneva, so as to achieve a settlement that will reunify our country and fulfill the vision of the people of Cyprus of building an attractive future for our youth and the generations to come, setting an example for peace-making and enhancing security and stability in our region`.

He underlined that Turkey’s contribution in tangible terms in these negotiations is vital and that there is no solution that can be reached without Turkey’s input.

`We do therefore expect Turkey, which is responsible for the illegal stationing of more than 40.000 occupation troops in Cyprus, to take practical and concrete steps towards this direction, particularly during the upcoming Conference of Cyprus, taking into account not only the benefit of the people of Cyprus, but also the positive impact a settlement will have to regional stability and cooperation` the President of Cyprus said.

Referring to bilateral ties, he said that Cyprus is committed to the enhancement of the political dialogue and cooperation between the EU and Rwanda, as part of a broader EU – Africa partnership, agreed at the 4th EU-Africa Summit in 2014, for effectively dealing today’s common challenges in the fields of security, governance and political stability and economic development.

Presenting his credentials, High Commissioner Rutabana said that his country has been following closely developments regarding the Cyprus situation, including recent talks in Mont Pèlerin.

`The Republic of Rwanda is confident that Cypriots will reach a durable solution to settle the longstanding problem` he said.

He also said that Rwanda proposes a few sectors, on which the two countries can base a strong partnership: Tertiary Education, Agriculture, Energy, Tourism, Mining, Infrastructure development, ICT and Healthcare.

The High Commissioner expressed gratitude to Cyprus for the scholarships offered to Rwandan students in different Cypriot Institutions of Higher Learning.

`We have no doubt whatsoever that the knowledge that those students will acquire, will contribute to the socio-economic development of our country` he concluded.

The Republic of Cyprus has been divided since 1974 when Turkish troops invaded and occupied 37% of its territory. President Anastasiades and Turkish Cypriot leader Mustafa Akinci have been engaged in UN-led talks since May 2015 with a view to reunite the island under a federal roof.

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A delegation from the House of Representatives comprising MPs Eleni Mavrou and Christos Orphanides participates in the deliberations of the 62nd World Conference of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) which began yesterday in London.

 

A delegation from the House of Representatives comprising MPs Eleni Mavrou and Christos Orphanides participates in the deliberations of the 62nd World Conference of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) which began yesterday in London.

In the framework of the Conference, which brings together 53 member countries with more than 600 participants, MP Christos Orphanides participated in a panel discussion on the role of parliamentarians in promoting and implementing sustainable development goals of the United Nations.

Emphasizing that issues such as climate change, sustainable development, the eradication of poverty and the fight against terrorism can not be addressed in isolation, he said the complexity of the challenges facing parliaments necessitates collective action.

Orphanides stressed that the Commonwealth is rich in resources and has huge financial and human resources which through collective action can be utilized to the maximum in connection with the United Nations Goals, noting that strengthening regional cooperation is an essential step for the further expansion of the sustainable development.

Recalling that 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is an ideal starting point for the coordination of actions to achieve the objective of peace, security and prosperity, Orphanides noted that the Agenda places special emphasis on cooperation for peaceful, fair and inclusive society worldwide level.

Referring to the role of Parliaments, Cypriot MP argued that they have a duty to work for the promotion of measures that will lead to the establishment of these objectives ensuring through the legislative process and parliamentary control the legitimacy of the institutional structures that ensure the fair administration of justice and the respect of the rule of law.

He also stressed the importance of citizen participation, arguing that an approach should be adopted that allows citizens to have a say and a role in decision-making.

In the framework of the Conference, which brings together 53 member countries with more than 600 participants, MP Christos Orphanides participated in a panel discussion on the role of parliamentarians in promoting and implementing sustainable development goals of the United Nations.

Emphasizing that issues such as climate change, sustainable development, the eradication of poverty and the fight against terrorism can not be addressed in isolation, he said the complexity of the challenges facing parliaments necessitates collective action.

Orphanides stressed that the Commonwealth is rich in resources and has huge financial and human resources which through collective action can be utilized to the maximum in connection with the United Nations Goals, noting that strengthening regional cooperation is an essential step for the further expansion of the sustainable development.

Recalling that 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is an ideal starting point for the coordination of actions to achieve the objective of peace, security and prosperity, Orphanides noted that the Agenda places special emphasis on cooperation for peaceful, fair and inclusive society worldwide level.

Referring to the role of Parliaments, Cypriot MP argued that they have a duty to work for the promotion of measures that will lead to the establishment of these objectives ensuring through the legislative process and parliamentary control the legitimacy of the institutional structures that ensure the fair administration of justice and the respect of the rule of law.

He also stressed the importance of citizen participation, arguing that an approach should be adopted that allows citizens to have a say and a role in decision-making.

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Cyprus has confirmed that Hovig Demirdjian will be the Cypriot representative for the up-coming Eurovision Song Contest 2017 which takes place in Kiev, in Ukraine.

The Cypriot broadcasters internally selected their choice announced through a press release on Friday 21st October; He will fly the Cypriot flag at next May’s annual music event.

Hovig, 27 years-old, was born in Nicosia, a Cypriot artist of Armenian origin. He will sing a song composed by Thomas G:Son, a Swedish song-writer. He produced 2016’s Cypriot entry, co-writing the Minus One ‘Shine’ track, and qualifying well enough to the final, did pretty much alright in fact. His involvement shows ambition to impress at the competition, with his notable many credits including, Sweden’s victory of 2012 in the song contest.

The date for the release of the song has not yet been specified for listeners, which leaves Cypriot fans in eager anticipation. The LGR website will have the song on its release date in the months leading up to the competition.

Hovig is a professional singer and song-writer with 10 years under his belt. This versatile performer is handling pop to Laika and emotive ballads. Excitingly enough, for this reviewer London Greek Radio Dj, his Laiko tune ‘Ego Gia Sena’ goes in to his favourites list, on the LGR air-waves. Well, this is somehow adding a more pleasant touch, because we know the artist a little bit, from his work.

He is very well liked by the Cypriot public, his evolving fan-base, largely beginning with his long-run on live shows of the Greek X Factor. The same year Miss Ivi Adamou was in the series, herself flying the Cypriot flag at 2012’s Eurovision Song Contest.

Hovig finally realises his long time goal pursuing his shot at Eurovision and he’s certainly had a try at it a couple of times before at the local finals. He had a song ‘Stone In A River’ finishing 4th, at 2015’s Cypriot heat stages, likewise, his ‘Goodbye’ tune rated 3rd during 2010’s pre-selection.

This is looking very likely that third time is the charm now he’s attained his goal proper.

He feels absolutely honoured to sing for his native Cypriot land, and is very much looking forward to it.

On his Facebook page, Hovig posted, ”Nai! (Greek word for yes), that’s all I said to CyBC when they popped the Eurovision question.

”This year, I intend to work very hard, day and night, to deliver the best possible performance in Kiev.

Cyprus is a diverse, and a hot island. Diversity runs in our ideas, our people and our music.

Our small island is an oasis of awesome talented people with amazing Mediterranean temperament.”

He concluded, ”Eurovision is happening guys and it’s going to be fun. Let’s do this!”

The press conference held at the Nicosia’s RED, where Hovig performs a lot, was made up of the Cypriot delegation’s Evi Papamichael and Kleitos Kleitou both expressed their hopes and confidence about our Cypriot chances in the song contest.

Hovig thanked them for selecting him as the artist and promised he will do his absolute best at the sing-off event. He thinks Cypriot talent is immense, he puts it, it’s a small nation but it’s really huge talent-wise, if you take in to account the extent of so many talented individuals.

Hovig will be certainly looking to equal the island’s solid qualifying record lately, following Minus One and John Karayiannis the year before, acts which made it to the final outright.

He will do whatever it takes to get to the final, Hovig, emphatically put it. This task is very likely to be very tough for sure, and will need lots of hard-work to make sure he passes to the last round, he’s very focused to knuckle down to achieve this, he points out.

Gson said he felt privileged, and honoured, to be writing his second Cypriot song in two years.

Meanwhile, CyBc CEO Thanasis Tsokos gives us a little quote by saying, ”Eurovision surely exists in the Cypriot nation’s DNA…” He’s of the opinion Cyprus’ participation is vitally relevant to encouraging, and promoting young Cypriot talent. It pays off economically and other ways, to being part of such a big thing. To which, he added, for a small state, like we have with the Cypriot state it is very important to be physically present, at these events.

He believed in Hovig’s talents and abilities and predicted he will qualify okay, adding, he forecasted rightly the same thing about Minus One, Tsokas told us.

We at London Greek Radio will be following all of the developments in the weeks to come and looking forward to have the song in our hands, where you will hear it first, and as always to happily support #teamcy and #eurovisioncy in the run-up to the contest.

The Semi-Finals will span from 9^th May 2017 to the 11^th May 2017, with the Final to take place on 13^th May 2017, where he will be hoping to stamp his authority on the rest of the Eurovision nations.

Article written by Tony Neophytou

Greek singer, Giannis Ploutarhos, and the hottest band of the moment, KINGS, have joined forces and created their brand new song ‘’Όσο Θα Λείπεις’’!

Their duet has already been labelled as ‘The Collaboration of the Year’ and is set to shake the Greek music scene!
The song is counting only six days from its release and the music video has already surpassed the 1 million views mark in the YouTube world, justifying all of the hype and anticipation that surrounded it.

With all of the great response and views which the music video has received, it is safe to say that we have a ‘hit’ in our hands. In the amazing music video, Giannis Ploutarhos, appears as we have never seen him before, portraying the psychiatrist who brings two lovers together.

The ultimate musical collaboration of the season has managed to make an impressive intro into radio frequencies and has climbed to the top of the airplay charts!

If you’ve yet to see the video, sit back, turn up the volume and enjoy Gianni Ploutarhos and KINGS’ brand new song ‘’Όσο θα λείπεις’’:

Article written by Panayiotis Koutoulas