Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council

Tuesday, 31 October 2006

After a morning meeting I went to Tristar Homes to their "taste of culture" event . We had a very interesting talk on Islam from a person from one of the local Mosques. He explained about the Muslim Faith and what it really meant, rather than some of the images put forward by the media. He emphasised that it was not the religion of terrorism, giving chapter and verse from Holy Books as to why not. He also said that he had done research into religions, and found that Judaism, Christianity and Islam had 90% of what they believed in common. I thought it was very good that Board Members, a range of staff and tenants could hear about the subject properly.

We then had a delicious Halal meal, and the opportunity to have a taste of some interesting dishes authentically cooked. One family of Tristar Tenants had brought along a delicious pile of some poppadoms and some samosas for people to try. Now how many tenants would do that for their landlord! Not many!

Then it was back to the Council offices for a final meeting with Stewart McFarlane and officers about the Ball on Thursday. Last minute arrangements are in place, and it should be a really good night. I've got dress, shoes and bag - but too late now for that strict diet!